NATIONAL INTER-CIRCUIT CHAMPIONSHIP
TOURNAMENT HISTORY
Established in 1974 and formerly known as the Twelve Goal Inter-Circuit, the National Inter-Circuit Championship has become a staple in the Florida Circuit. Hosted by Sarasota Polo Club (Sarasota, Florida) a total of twenty times, the 2024 edition will proudly return for an eleventh consecutive year. Leading the tournament for the most championships, Hillcroft has dominated the competition amassing an impressive six titles in 13 years (2011, 2012, 2016, 2017, 2021, 2022). Other notable champions include Genesis (2010), Wildcat (2013), The Villages (2014, 2015), Wrigley Media Group (2019) and Barefield (2020).
In 2023, Tito's (James P. Uihlein, Ignacio "Nachi" Viana, Vaughn Miller Jr., Joe Wayne Barry) faced defending champions Hillcroft (Herndon Radcliff, Jack Kiely, Mason Wroe, James Miller). Doubling-up their opponents on the scoreboard at the half, leading scorer Viana contributed eight goals throughout the match, including seven from the field, to seal Tito's 10-7 win.
Competing in the height of the winter season at Sarasota Polo Club, four teams will battle for the National Inter-Circuit Championship. Fresh-off their victory in the National Copper Cup, Barefield will look to keep their momentum for a second consecutive 12-goal victory. Reigning champions Tito's are back to defend their title, with Hillcroft will aiming for a seventh National Inter-Circuit Championship. Whiskey Pond will round-out the talented competition. Representing Team USPA is alumnus Mason Wroe.
Sarasota Polo Club will be taking advantage of the USPA's Bridge to High Goal Initiative (B2HG) for the National Inter-Circuit Championship, which provides eligible USPA Member Clubs three USPA Professional Umpires (two mounted officials and one third man) at 50% of the regular cost to the club.
The B2HG has been created to support polo between 12 and 16 goals. The goal of the program is to build a bridge from low-goal polo to high-goal polo that provides a safe environment for competition which will allow for the cultivation of team owners and the advancement of aspiring professionals.
Photo: 2023 National Inter-Circuit Champions: Tito's - James P. Uihlein, Ignacio 'Nachi' Viana, Vaughn Miller Jr., Joe Wayne Barry. ©Julio Aguilar
