NEWS

Acme Elixirs cruised through the USPA President’s Cup qualifying rounds with ease, emerging with an undefeated 3-0 record. Klentner Ranch played in a virtual semifinal against Farmers & Merchants Bank on Friday, September 15, to secure their position in the final.

Acme Elixirs boasts a strong lineup for the Santa Barbara Fall 8-Goal Series with Max Menini (5 goals), Jim Wright* (2 goals) and a dynamic duo of A-rated players, John Ziegler and Leandro Floccari. Ziegler’s son, Jack, has stepped in for his father in several games and shows promise as a young, up-and-coming player.

Klentner Ranch and Acme Elixirs battled for six straight chukkers. After being defeated by Acme Elixirs earlier in the tournament, Klentner Ranch adjusted their strategy to better match their opponents. After receiving a goal on handicap, Acme Elixirs took charge on the scoring front, quickly adding to their tally. Klentner Ranch rallied back, tightening up their defense and began chipping away at the lead established by Acme Elixirs.

Wright spoke highly of his teammate Menini, “Maxi came out on fire today and pushed us to a win. Klentner Ranch is always a tough team to play against and they had a great game.”

After a fifth chukker comeback led by Jesse Bray* for Klentner Ranch, it appeared to be anyone’s game. Menini quickly fired back up in the final chukker and pushed Acme Elixirs ahead for the victory 12-10. Menini was named Most Valuable Player for his dominant performance in the final match. Lexy owned by Bray was awarded Best Playing Pony.

*Jim Wright and Jesse Bray are members of Team USPA. Team USPA is a USPA program designed to enhance and grow the sport of polo in the United States by identifying young, talented American players and providing mentored training and playing opportunities leading to a pool of higher rated amateur and pro players and the resultant giveback to the sport of polo.

All photos © David Lominska/www.polographics.com