How The Hamptons Polo Club Fosters a Multicultural Community

The Hamptons Polo Club explores equine artistry and creates a multicultural community.

Jessica Sailer Van Lith with two of her three children, Delphine and Vivienne

Its calming presence and nonjudgmental acceptance of people as they are— regardless of appearance, ability or emotional state— have made the horse and its connection to humankind a natural treasure, offering physical and therapeutic benefits, emotional and psychological support, companionship as well as fun for the entire family. With improved facilities, new leadership and an impressive tournament schedule, the Hamptons Polo Club (hamptonspoloclub.com) aims to reengage summer Long Island residents in not only an exhilarating game but also the rich traditions of this traveling equine community making polo a multicultural family affair.

Centrally located in Water Mill, the Hamptons Polo Club is the largest summer polo club in the United States boasting five polo fields, two stick and ball fields, a large equine exercise track, a refurbished arena, stalls for over 70 horses, and lessons for new players as well as a polo program for kids. Bringing together equine athletes from all over the world, the Hamptons Polo Club is an international intersection between nature and art, featuring rolling hills, lush greenery and a sprawling outdoor gallery of over 100 monumental sculptures by local artist and philanthropist Nova Mihai Popa. “Our members hail from several countries, an array of professions, and share a passion for the game and a love of the lifestyle,” states Ali Bailey, a partner of the club.

Jessica Sailer Van Lith, creative director at Maisonette, mother of three, polo player and club partner, can testify to the impactful community that polo creates. “Polo is not just a sport,” says Sailer Van Lith. “It brings people together and fosters a sense of camaraderie and connection among its participants.” After all, playing this fast-paced, invigorating sport requires teamwork, coordination and trust between players and their horses. Furthermore, families of polo players form their own support network, cheering on loved ones while building relationships with other polo families from diverse backgrounds and walks of life. Sailer Van Lith continues, “After practices and games, we often hold Argentine-style asados where players, friends, children and employees of the club can gather over a delicious meal, share stories and create new memories. I am always filled with gratitude for this sport that nourishes my competitive spirit and builds community in the most authentic way.”

Horses and mankind have long shared a special connection. A rider and the horse are joined not by the saddle, but by trust. The relationship is completely interdependent, each serving as the guardian of the other’s well-being. “I am so thrilled to share this special sport with the community,” says Sailer Van Lith. “Polo has brought so much joy to our family: building confidence and courage as well as a deep respect and love for these incredible ponies.” Perhaps more could be learned from the nonverbal communication between horse and equestrian, as it unlocks the profound connection between humanity and nature, transcending words and uniting us in a harmonious gallop.