This past weekend, we said goodbye to Zoilo, a cherished pony of the Newport Polo family and a true ambassador of the sport. Zoilo was more than just a pony. He was a trusted teammate, teacher, and companion to everyone fortunate enough to ride him. A bay Thoroughbred gelding hailing from Argentina, Zoilo carried the classic spirit of a Gaucho pony. His name, rooted in the Spanish word “Zoilo,” means life, a testament to his vibrant energy and presence. Born to compete, Zoilo was no stranger to the international polo scene. Before arriving at Newport, he graced England’s most prestigious tournaments, competing in the Queen’s Cup, the Gold Cup, and even featured in France’s storied Deauville circuit. He made his Newport International Polo Series debut in 2013, swiftly earning acclaim for his speed, graceful handling, and unflappable reliability, making him an instant favorite among riders. For every polo player, new or seasoned, the journey happens with the horse. A bond built through partnership, stride by stride, season after season. Zoilo embodied the beauty of that bond, the rhythm, trust, and understanding between horse and rider that defines polo at its core. Saying goodbye isn’t easy, but we’re forever thankful for the chukkers, the lessons learned, and the memories he gave us. Here’s to you, Zoilo. Thank you for the ride, for the camaraderie, and for reminding us all what it means to play the game the right way, with a partner who gives you everything, every chukker. Please share your memories, photos, or stories of Zoilo. We’d love to honor and celebrate him together.