International Gay Polo Tournament

April 4-6, 2024

Grand Horse Play

Held for the first time at the Patagones Polo Club in Wellington, the International Gay Polo Tournament draws top GPL players and avid spectators from around the globe for a weekend of grand horseplay.

Mixing one-part serious competition and one-part lighthearted party, this event is all about sharing a love for adventure, fun and the challenging sport of polo. Created to generate awareness and to move the needle forward for LGBTQ athletes, the event works to ensure athletes not only have the same opportunities, but also a safe place to learn, grow and excel in their sport. Since its inception, the priority has remained to raise a significant amount of money in support of diversity and inclusion initiatives for other LGBTQ organizations.

This year, there will be fun, there will be flare, and, most importantly, there will be celebration for the difference being made in the sporting community.

Schedule of Events

Thursday, April 4: VIP Sponsor’s Reception by Invitation

Friday, April 5: Polotini Charity Party to benefit Elton John AIDS Foundation

Experience a hair-raising extravaganza! Revelry includes music, dancing, open bar, delectable hors’ d’oeuvres, and entertainment! And of course – wear your finest WIG! This year, the GPL’s Charity partner is the Elton John AIDS Foundation – Join us for a fabulous evening to raise money for the Elton John AIDS Foundation!

Saturday, April 6:  GPL Tournament Finals

16 LGBTQ+ polo players, from around the world, will compete in this year’s Lexus International Gay Polo Tournament – Presented by Douglas Elliman Real Estate. The FOUR polo teams will compete for two GPL Perpetual Trophies: The Senator’s Cup & The Founder’s Cup. The Patagones Polo Club is one of the exclusive polo clubs in the world. PURCHASE VIP TABLES FOR 8 OR INDIVIDUAL TICKETS, TAILGATES, GENERAL ADMISSION TICKETS AND PARKING PASSES.

The change in field this year will vastly increase the space available for tailgating, so bring your A game to our annual tailgate competition. The sky’s the limit this year, so ramp up the fabulous and party field-side.

Tickets are now available!  

A portion of ticket sales from the tournament will benefit the Elton John AIDS Foundation, an international leader in the global fight against AIDS. GPL aims to harness the power of community and sport to raise critical funds and awareness for the Foundation’s lifesaving efforts.

Last year, the Foundation launched The Rocket Fund to turbo charge their innovative work, targeting those most at risk of HIV/AIDS, including the LGBTQ+ community. Through this partnership, the GPL further solidifies its commitment to fostering an environment of inclusivity, while contributing towards a cause that makes a positive impact in the lives of millions of people.

Terrific Tailgates

The three days of festivities will come to a head in a majestic match only rivaled by the creative competitions from the tailgaters. The tailgating scene is just as competitive as the polo action, with spectators creating elaborate themed parties. You might stumble into a pop-up salon where the workers are in drag, a nightclub bumping DJ beats, or a wedding chapel where actual ceremonies are being performed. No theme is too over-the-top, and the party only stops when the last bottle of Champagne has been popped. 

Be an Insider

The International Gay Polo Tournament is one of the most highly anticipated events of the equestrian season. Happening the very same weekend is the first round of the U.S. Open Polo Championship. Spanning three weeks, this prestigious tournament is the grand finale of Polo Season, and the culminating event in the Gauntlet of Polo™. From the thrilling competition to the camaraderie, this is one weekend you’ll want to attend year after year. We hope to see you there! 

For more information visit gaypolo.com.