The Florida-based International Polo Tour (IPT), led by renowned Founder and Team Captain Tareq Salahi, is celebrating a stunning double victory this week after returning home from the heart of Virginia’s historic polo culture.
The IPT made headlines with a standout performance in the prestigious United States Chief of Protocol Ambassadors Cup, solidifying its reputation as one of the world’s premier touring polo organizations.
Playing Polo in the Heart of American History
On Saturday, the Hotels at Sea Luxury Cruises polo team, part of the IPT, took center stage at the Phipps Polo Field, the oldest polo field in Virginia and the third oldest in the United States. They faced off against Team Sales Force / Makani, concluding an intense match with a thrilling 8-6 scoreline.
“We are honored to have had the opportunity to play in such a historic location, especially in a match rooted in culture, diversity, and purpose,” said Salahi. “Our team was founded on the belief that polo can bring people from different worlds together, and this game was a beautiful example.”
Founded in 1972 by Ambassador Marion Smoak, the Chief of Protocol Ambassadors Cup has long been recognized as one of America’s most prestigious polo tournaments. Its mission remains to foster international diplomacy, uniting players, dignitaries, and communities through friendly competition and cultural exchange.
Mary Frances, daughter of Ambassador Smoak, praised the tradition: “My father started the Chief of Protocol Tournament and Trophy to bring people together and to start an international exchange with friendly competition. Donald Ensenat, Chief of Protocol in the early 2000s, continued the tradition. This is an historic event that brings so much pride to the Virginia, DC, and Maryland polo community.”
A Second Victory at Morven Park International Polo Club
Barely catching their breath, the IPT team then headed straight to their second match of the day at the iconic Morven Park International Polo Club, competing as part of the Circumnavigators Club series. Defying expectations, Salahi and his teammates played with remarkable endurance and spirit, clinching an impressive 11-7 win over Team Sales Force / Makani once again.
“You would think our earlier match would have put us at a disadvantage, but the opposite was true,” smiled Salahi, who was the high scorer in both matches. “We were burning up with anticipation, excited to get into the polo arena stadium so soon, and running on an amazing high that led us to another victory in under 24 hours.”
With these back-to-back triumphs, the Florida-based International Polo Tour has set a new standard for its upcoming matches and continues to shine as a symbol of polo diplomacy and cultural exchange.
Looking Ahead: Sunset Polo USA vs. South Africa
Next on the IPT calendar is the highly anticipated Sunset Polo USA vs. South Africa Val De Vie match, scheduled for this September. This iconic match supports We Will Survive Cancer (WWSC) and has become one of the highlights of the season. Spectators can expect world-class polo action alongside a star-studded Rockin the Runway Fashion Show, an exclusive luxury raffle, and appearances by sports superstars such as NFL’s Josh Norman and Tim Johnson.
“Words cannot describe how proud I am of my team — we brought our best, and every second on the field was a testament to years of practice, passion, and love for this sport,” said Salahi. “We’re working hard to make the 2025 season one of our best yet.”
