British polo team returns to Oak Brook

A polo team from Great Britain will return to Oak Brook's Prince of Wales Field to compete for the prestigious International Cup and to close out Oak Brook's 2017 season.

Spectators are encouraged to don their "British best" as both teams face off in a 12-goal, four-chukker match on Sunday, Sept. 10, at the Oak Brook Polo Grounds, 2606 York Road.

The day begins with a champagne brunch at 10 a.m. with gates opening to the public at 1 p.m., polo festivities at 2 p.m. and the match at 3 p.m.

Oak Brook Polo Club has a long history of hosting teams from other countries. The International Cup was inaugurated in 1986 when the England Team, captained by Prince Charles, played against Oak Brook.

It was famed "Hair" producer Michael Butler who invited the prince to play, which turned into a four-day visit to Chicago and Boston. A 4-goal polo player at the time, Prince Charles would play his premier U.S. appearance with a British team at Oak Brook.

Today, HRH The Prince of Wales serves as patron of the Wales Polo Team. It is captained by Ricky Cooper and includes Pete Webb, Niall Donnelly and Orlando Camus. Oak Brook is led by team patron and captain Jim Drury and includes Horacio Onetto, Tomas "Toto" Obregon and Mariano Gutierrez.

"What a great and historic way to end our season," Drury said. "The old days of Oak Brook Polo are beginning to re-emerge and re-establish the club as a place for international polo competition."

Oak Brook Polo Club's "International Polo Series" has featured matches with teams from Jamaica, India, and Great Britain.

Formed in 1922 by businessman Paul Butler, Oak Brook Polo Club marks its 95th season this year as one of the nation's oldest polo clubs.

Once considered the "polo capital" of the world, Oak Brook was the destination for American polo players and enthusiasts, and entertained Hollywood celebrities, dignitaries and royalty.

A variety of ticket options are available at oakbrookpoloclub.com. For information, event scheduling and parking directions, call (630) 368-5095.