Fun for a Great Cause in Our Own Backyard
If you’re looking for a way to soak up the best of a Minnesota summer, you don’t have to look much further than Maple Plain. On Sunday, August 2nd, 2026, the Twin City Polo Club will once again host the Polo Classic. While “polo” might sound like something reserved for high-society culture, this event is a massive, community-friendly party that feels right at home for us here in Medina and the greater west metro.
What to Expect: Hats, Horses, and High Heels (or Boots!)
The Polo Classic is really about getting outside and enjoying a beautiful day with neighbors. You’ll see everything from classic and exotic cars worth millions to kids of all ages running freely around the family area.
One of the best parts is the Divot Stomp. At halftime, everyone heads out onto the grass to kick back the clumps of turf the horses moved during the game. It’s a great way to stretch your legs, grab a glass of champagne, and catch up with friends. And yes, people do go all out with the hats! Whether you’re into fancy fascinators or just want to wear a fun sun hat, the Hat Parade is a highlight that doesn’t take itself too seriously.
The Heart of the Event: This Old Horse
While the horses on the field are the stars of the show, the real “why” behind the day is This Old Horse, Inc. This local nonprofit is the force behind the entire event. Their mission is simple but powerful: to give retired, rescued, and special-needs horses a place to land.
Many of the horses at This Old Horse have spent their lives serving humans—whether as racehorses, show horses, or therapy animals. When they get too old or injured to “work” anymore, they often have nowhere to go. This Old Horse steps in to provide a permanent sanctuary where these animals can live out their lives with dignity, love, and plenty of hay.
How Your Support Makes a Real Difference
When you buy a ticket or sponsor a tent at the Polo Classic, you aren’t just paying for a day of entertainment. You are quite literally feeding a horse.
- Volunteer-Powered: One of the most incredible things about This Old Horse is that they have no paid administrative staff. When you donate, your money is going directly to grain, hay, and vet care.
- The Cost of Care: It costs about $6,000 a year to provide sanctuary for just one horse. With over 300 horses currently in their care across their various facilities, every dollar from the Polo Classic is vital.
- A “Happily Ever After”: Donations allow the team to take in horses that others might have given up on—the ones who are blind, lame, or just very old—and give them a “retirement home” that is second to none.
See You on the Sidelines
Whether you want to pack a picnic and tailgate with the family or host a group in a private tent, there’s a spot for you on the sidelines. It’s a rare chance to see a world-class sport up close while making a massive impact on the lives of animals who have given so much to us.
Check out www.thepoloclassic.com to grab your tickets or learn more about how you can get involved. Let’s make this year’s Classic the biggest one yet for the horses!
Author bio: Kari Markham is a content marketing professional and the Chair of the 37th Annual Polo Classic. Deeply involved in horse rescue and equine advocacy, Kari is dedicated to using the platform of the Polo Classic to support retired equine athletes and connect the community. She lives and works alongside her own animals just outside of Delano.
Photos: Moon Lai Photography
