On May 12, 2007, an international polo match of epic proportions will square off between the United Kingdom and the United States polo teams in Historic Morven Park in Leesburg, Virginia.
Nestled in the rolling hills and striking mountains of the Blue Ridge Mountain range, the event will commemorate the 400th anniversary of the journey undertaken by 104 men, women and children in 1607 that constituted the first brave steps towards the United States becoming an independent, strong nation. Indeed, it will celebrate the enduring spirit of America and all that "we continue to follow in our hearts with determination, optimism and principals," according to America's Cup of Polo Chairman Tareq Salahi.
Funds raised at the first-ever America's Cup will benefit another cause near and dear to Salahi's heart Ð the Journey for the Cure Foundation that supports the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, The MS Society and Historic Morven Park. "These illnesses do not see country boundaries and cross all lines. They affect all human beings in this nation and across the world," says Salahi, whose affected friends include competitive international polo professional and member of the 400th Anniversary United States Polo Team, Charles Muldoon, a brave lymphoma survivor.
Mountains are literally being moved to accommodate 5,000 cup attendees at the park, which spans over 1,000 acres. "Mountains of dirt have been moved," says Will O'Keefe, Executive Director of Morven Park. "There is no polo event we are aware of that has this type of premier viewing capacity for over 5,000 spectators on both sides of the polo field. Two hundred tractor trailers are coming here every day to prepare. It's a shock in awe. This is truly going to be one of the most unparalleled polo games in the country for spectators due to the huge efforts we've made over the course of three years to create what will be one of the most spectacular polo venues and matches in the world," reports Salahi.
This is also a cause to celebrate the commonwealth of Virginia, where Salahi was born and raised and where he owns an award winning vineyard, Oasis Winery, and is Chairman of VirginiaWineTour.com, a tourism office supporting Virginia and Capital region businesses. "I'm a fan of people showing off Virginia, boasting Virginia, supporting her and increasing awareness of what Virginia represents, and preserving her agriculture and equine driven economic structure."
World leaders, including President Bush and Queen Elizabeth of England have been invited, but Salahi says that's not the focus. "The premise is to support these initiatives. Whether or not they will be there, the message is celebrating the 400th anniversary and curing these illnesses. This is what's so beautiful about America and other countries that support freedom and democracy."
The event will commence at 11 a.m. to the patriotic sounds of a fife and drum band performance and the singing of the American and English national anthems, by legendary rock band, Journey. Next, spectators will savor the titillating, unprecedented match between the polo teams of the United States and England. There will then be a break between the matches to enjoy a not-yet-announced "surprise" musical performer. The evening will conclude with fireworks and additional performances by Journey. Food, libations and wine will be provided exclusively by vendors from Virginia. Hospitality events, VIP receptions, demonstrations and trophy presentations for the winning polo professionals will round out a full and exciting day of celebration for America's 400th Anniversary.
America's Cup of Polo is open to everyone from the general public to private corporations and offers a wide assortment of specialty and general admission packages. Tickets and detailed package information are available online at www.AmericasCupofPolo.com. Lansdowne Resort, the Official Resort of America's Cup of Polo, just minutes from Historic Morven Park, has blocked out the entire hotel for attendees at the cup.
Historic Morven Park is one of the last remaining 1,000-acre country estates in the United States and will host America's Cup of Polo. It is located in Leesburg, Virginia and is just a 20-minute drive from Washington Dulles Airport.
