Autumn arrived in grand style last Saturday at Newport Polo, as the Heritage Cup brought fans together for a day of thrilling competition and timeless tradition. The Heritage Cup celebrated polo’s enduring traditions, where the spirit of horses and hounds meets stories of legacy, family, and sport passed down through generations. Player profiles in this matchup shone a light on multi-generational horsemen and women who carry forward the passion of their families, underscoring polo’s role as both a sport and a shared heritage. It was the moment where history, community, and competition converge in one of the season’s most anticipated matches.

This year’s Heritage Cup also marked the first polo sponsorship for Kinsella Building Co., a luxury custom home builder renowned for 22 years of master craftsmanship, historic restorations, and generational homes built to last. Their debut partnership beautifully reflects the tournament’s theme of heritage, with Kinsella’s dedication to preserving quality and tradition echoed in the artistry of polo itself. Together, the match and its sponsor honor the timeless pursuit of excellence—on and off the field.

The grounds came alive with timeless fall style in a Horses & Hounds theme, borrowing from classic Autumn field traditions of foxhunting and equestrian elegance, where loyal hounds and noble steeds have long been icons of the sport, embracing a day of refined heritage, lively competition, and four-legged flair. Tweeds, riding boots, quilted blazers, and countryside chic set the tone, while wagging tails and four-legged friends added to the day’s charm. Guests embraced the theme with gusto, and the Stella Artois Best in Show contest honored the most standout look with a stylish prize. One lucky attendee won the door prize from Veuve Clicquot Champagne and entry into Turkish Airlines’ Grand Prize trip giveaway, promising an adventure as exciting as the match itself.

The sidelines buzzed with activity from the very start. Fans browsed the latest from Simply Chicky children’s wear and Newport Polo’s souvenir Pro Shop, while a parade of food trucks ensured nobody went hungry. From Brie & Honey’s artful charcuteries to Newport Chowder Co’s seaside favorites, Ben & Jerry’s sweet scoops and more, the culinary lineup offered something for everyone. At the TD Pavilion and Dillon’s Patio Bar, the signature cocktail of the day – aptly named Release the Hounds – set the mood with crisp, seasonal flavors.

The Opening Ceremony welcomed Lisa Kinsella, Business Manager of Kinsella Building, performing the ceremonial Coin Toss, officially setting the stage for the Heritage Cup rivalry. In white, Team Newport fielded Peter Jenkins, Minnie Keating, Dan Keating, and Stuart Odell. Facing them in green, Team Kinsella featured Lou Pandas, Dan Kinsella, Cole Kinsella, and Caleb Bryden. Officiating the match were umpires Chris Frag and Jair Zenteno, ensuring fair play in what would become a nail-biting contest.

From the outset, the match was closely fought. Team Kinsella struck first with a goal from D. Kinsella in the opening chukker, while Newport struggled to find their rhythm and were held scoreless. The second chukker saw momentum shift as Newport stormed back with three unanswered goals, silencing Team Kinsella’s attack. Kinsella’s defenses regrouped in the 3rd period and Bryden finally broke through with a goal before halftime, sending both teams to their camps during the traditional divot stomp with Newport narrowly leading 3–2. Fans poured onto the field with flutes of bubbly in hand, stomping divots and soaking in the sunshine, while conversations buzzed over the first half’s intensity.

The action ramped up as the second half began. Odell set the tone early in the fourth chukker with a strong goal, pushing Newport ahead. But Team Kinsella refused to back down, as Cole Kinsella and Caleb Bryden each answered with a goal, tying the score. Minnie Keating lit up the fifth chukker, scoring twice in quick succession, showcasing both precision and poise. Bryden tried to keep Team Kinsella in the hunt with another goal, but Newport’s lead held firm. The final chukker brought even more drama, as Stuart Odell added another to Newport’s tally, while Cole Kinsella countered for his side. With just one goal separating the teams, every possession was contested with grit and determination. When the final horn sounded, Newport edged out Team Kinsella in a thrilling 7–6 victory that had the crowd on its feet.

The trophy presentation was a highlight of the afternoon. Waterfire’s Mark Allen, Interim Executive Director and Kelly Pattison, Director of Sponsorship and Corporate Relations, presented the Heritage Cup trophy to Team Newport, commending both sides for their spirited play and determination. Applause and cheers rippled across the grounds as fans celebrated another chapter in Newport Polo’s storied tradition of rivalries, community, and sport.

The Heritage Cup was more than just a game, it was a celebration of fall in Newport, blending the timeless traditions of polo with the warmth and camaraderie of the season. From the equestrian-inspired style of the fans to the fierce competition on the field, the day embodied everything that makes polo Saturdays a one of a kind experience.

The excitement now builds toward the Turkish Airlines Finals on Saturday, September 27th at 4pm, promising an unforgettable grand finale to the Newport International Polo Series.