Polo Classic benefits charity

Guests at the third annual Cobra Roofing Polo Classic this Sunday might feel like they’ve ventured into England instead of Airway Heights. Twenty-six billowing white tents spread out across the lawn will house an art walk, a silent auction and lots of gourmet food and wine. “Tents, Hats and Champagne” is the theme of this distinctive benefit.

“We were looking for a unique fundraising opportunity to benefit Ronald McDonald House,” said Nickie White, project coordinator for the charity. “People get maxed out with black-tie dinners and golf tournaments.”

In addition to fine food and great art, guests will watch a performance by the West Plains Skydivers and enjoy four chukkars (periods) of polo.

According to Mike Forness, executive director of Ronald McDonald House Charities of Spokane, the gala is the largest polo event west of the Mississippi. He said, “Polo is considered one of the oldest team sports in the world. This year we’ve got four players from Uruguay on the Washington Trust team,” Forness added, “We’re moving toward becoming an international event.”

Polo has a rich tradition in the Inland Northwest. “The Spokane Polo Club began in 1913,” said member Pete Dix. “We moved to our current facility in 1967, and we’re always looking for new members.” The club has been pleased to partner with corporate sponsors and the community to raise money for Ronald McDonald House.

Dix said 32 horses will be used in the exhibition match. Those thundering hooves provide a unique part of the day. The Veuve Clicquot Champagne Divot Stomp has proven to be quite popular. “As the horses run, they throw up big clods of dirt,” White explained. “At halftime, guests go out to the field and stomp in the divots that the horses pulled up.” Brimming glasses of chilled champagne fuel the fun.

The benefit is also a great excuse to buy or borrow a fancy hat. Ladies are encouraged to enter the “Best Hat Competition.” This year’s first prize is a diamond pendant donated by Dodson’s Jewelers.

The event depends on the efforts of 175 volunteers. Forness said the amount of help they have shows how much the volunteers themselves relish the gala.

The opportunity to partner with the Spokane Polo Club has turned out to be a successful endeavor. “Last year this event raised $160,000,” said White. “It keeps the lights on and food stocked. and it helps with our operating costs.”

According to the organization’s Web site, “Ronald McDonald House Charities of Spokane provides temporary lodging, comfort and support for families of children accessing medical services, and supports related efforts to improve children’s health.”

And Forness said that’s what he enjoys most. “We raise money to support families that come from a wide four-state region.” He paused and laughed quietly. “And everyone has fun.”