Polo that has nothing to do with shirts

Sure, you could come to Oak Brook this summer for its outdoor shopping or upscale restaurants that attract visitors from all over the region.

But what really sets the village apart is an attraction that's tough to find anywhere in the suburbs: polo matches.

This summer's polo season kicks off July 6 at the Oak Brook Polo Grounds and will run each Sunday through Sept. 14. Each year devoted fans follow the wins and losses of the Chicago International Polo Club, the team that calls the grounds home.

But organizers also hope to draw some new fans this summer.

"Polo is definitely something different and something a lot of people don't even think about doing," said Karen Martino, spokeswoman for the polo grounds. "We want people to come and enjoy it."

Matches will pit local players against some of the top international polo athletes. Martino said the biggest worry for lots of budding polo fans isn't learning the rules of the game, though. Instead, she said, they fret about what to wear and worry if their clothes should be fancy. So newcomers only need to brush up on a few key guidelines: dress is causal chic (think khakis and a collared shirt), picnics are allowed (bring your own or buy food and drinks there), bring a lawn chair if you've got one, and admission entitles you to two matches at 1 and 3 p.m. each Sunday.

Throughout the season, the polo grounds also host several charity benefits, including a Model A Classic car show on Aug. 3, the Bentley Drivers Club Day Out on Aug. 10 and the Mercedes-Benz Concours d'Elegance Sept. 7.

"These events appeal to a different crowd, introduce people to polo and give the regulars something extra to look at too," Martino said.

The most popular event of the season is always the Argentine American Polo Cup, which is set for Sept. 14. Martino said it's the club's most lively match because the Argentine consulate publicizes the match in Chicago and suburban regulars make sure to show up for the friendly rivalry.

And no matter who wins, everyone agrees on the food which is an Argentine asado, or barbecue, with native dishes.

"It's just a really need wrap up of the season and a very festive event," Martino said.

Oak Brook International Polo Club matches

When: 1 and 3 p.m. July 6 to Sept. 14

Where: Oak Brook Polo Grounds, 31st Street and Polo Drive

Cost: $10; $5 for senior citizens; free for children 12 and younger

Details: (630) 368-6428 or www.oak-brook.org/polo