Published: Synapse 2012, Vol. 2
Each year on the second Sunday in June, the hill overlooking the Brandywine Polo field in Toughkenamon is capped with the crisp white peaks of tents. Ladies don their finest hats and children run about playing games and making crafts. Live music entertains shoppers as they browse hand-crafted items from local vendors and pick up great deals at the Silent Auction.
But when the announcer's voice is broadcast through the public address system all eyes are on the field. Brightly colored teams seat high atop majestic polo ponies and the announcer runs through a brief tutorial on the rules of a Polo match for first-time spectators.
Hospital Administration and Polo Cup Sponsors enjoy the action-packed match from a VIP Tent and mingle with guests of the Hospital's Founders Society. The group is named for the eight physicians who opened and staffed "West Chester Hospital" in 1892; re-named The Chester County Hospital one year later. The Founders Society recognizes donors who support the Hospital's Mission by making an annual gift of $1,000 or more.
With the perfect vantage point for the fast-paced match, guests of the VIP tent enjoy cuisine catered by Limoncello Ristorante with wines from Galer Estate Winery and Vineyard. All toast the efforts of the Turks Head branch of the Women's Auxiliary for creating an elegant family affair. Children under 16 are free to attend the event and can entertain themselves with complimentary children's activities while their parents enjoy tailgating and the action on the field.
At half-time, guests gather on the field for the traditional stomping of the divots and awards for the most spectacular hat. For guests of the event, the Polo Cup is a celebration that marks the beginning of the summer season and a fun way to preserve the health of our community.
By Tom Gavin
Photos by David Kimball
Representatives of Galer Estate Winery & Vineyard
Guests of the Cup Sponsor, Exelon
SAVE THE DATE
Presented by Exelon / Constellation Energy and the Bryn Mawr Trust Company, the 7th Annual Polo Cup will take place on Sunday, June 9, 2013. The Turks Head Auxiliary has already begun planning on great new features for the event. Tent space is limited. For more information, please call the Foundation Office, 610.431.5329.
GET INVOLVED
To learn how you can support the Hospital, call 610.431.5108.