Special Equestrians of the Treasure Coast has found a new friend in the BG Polo & Equestrian Club. Formerly known as Atlantic Crossings, new owner, Bobby Genovese generously offered the property, located west of the Polo Grounds, as the venue for the organization’s annual fundraiser, Pony Up with Polo.
“This is everything,” said Vickie Penley, Special Equestrians program director. Organizers hoped to raise $25,000 through the event. “This is how we support our whole year.”
A soft breeze held away rain as approximately 150 guests dressed in gentrified cowboy gear enjoyed cocktails outside.
The aroma of Argentinian “parrillada” had mouths watering as Charley Replogle, owner of the Ocean Grill Restaurant and a part-time polo player, worked alongside his polo teammates cooking a traditional Argentine BBQ over open pit grills,.
“They cook the meat over citrus wood on those big open grills, which gives it a very distinct flavor,” said Chelsea’s on Cardinal owner David Busch, who provided the rest of the menu.
Before dinner, dancing and a large live auction began in the covered tent, guests were treated to a special rider demonstration by students showing off the horsemanship skills they had learned, displaying agility and riding talents.
“This organization means so much to me,” said Sarita Hmalay, whose son Adam was unable to walk and barely spoke three years ago. “It is all about Adam’s recovery from autism. It’s like therapy for our family and it is great to be with others who are going through the same struggle as well.”
Riding has helped his body grow stronger, so that now he is able to run, ride and maintain his balance. He even started speaking by learning the commands to walk, go or stop, which he uses to guide his horse.
“I really think it was the connection with the animals,” said Hmalay. “Their connection helps him grow in his development.”
Riding helps strengthen core control, increase motor skills and build speech as students communicate with horses and instructors. In addition to physical limitations, many of the children deal with a lack of social interactions, but they really connect with the horses and it is a fun activity for them.
“As a mom the biggest benefit is that every Saturday morning, Lindsey is up and ready to go ride her horse and hang out with her best friend,” said Barbara Hires.
“This is our favorite non-profit,” said Glenn Risedorf aka Dr. Glenn Curtis of the Love Doctors radio talk show. “The work they do with the kids is just fantastic.”
Many of the guests were avid polo fans and were happy to support the cause as they welcomed the Genovese family to the community.
“If we can do anything to support animals in the therapeutic world, which we also do at our other farm, BG Signatures in Ocala, we want to help in any way we are able,” said Dee Dee Eustace. “Last week over 1,000 people came out to watch polo. It was amazing.”
“I am just excited to bring back polo to the Vero Polo Club,” added Bobby Genovese. “The sport has been good for this community.”
www.special-equestrians.org