Park Place’s Golden Triumph: Hilario Ulloa Shines in a Thrilling U.S. Open Polo Championship Victory
On a sun-drenched Sunday afternoon at the National Polo Center in Wellington, Florida, the polo world witnessed a spectacle that will be remembered for years to come. Park Place, a formidable English team we’re proud to champion as a British company, emerged victorious in the U.S. Open Polo Championship, defeating Valiente 11-10 in a heart-pounding extra chukker. The hero of the day? None other than Argentine polo sensation Hilario Ulloa, whose golden goal sealed the deal and added yet another chapter to his storied career.
A Match for the Ages
The final, held on March 23, 2025, was a rollercoaster of emotions from the opening whistle. Valiente, a powerhouse in their own right, came out swinging, taking an early 3-2 lead by the end of the first chukker. Their precision and aggression set the tone, hinting at a potential upset. But Park Place, known for their resilience and tactical brilliance, refused to back down. By halftime, they’d clawed their way back to a 5-5 deadlock, showcasing the kind of grit that has made them a force on the global stage.
The second half was a seesaw battle, with both teams trading goals like heavyweight boxers exchanging punches. Valiente edged ahead 9-8 as the sixth and final regulation chukker loomed, and the tension in the stands was palpable. Spectators, sipping cocktails and shielding their eyes from the Florida sun, leaned forward in anticipation. Could Park Place mount a comeback? The answer came in the form of Hilario Ulloa, who rifled in a clutch goal to knot the score at 9-9, sending the match into overtime.
The Extra Chukker Drama
In polo, an extra chukker is the equivalent of sudden-death overtime—a do-or-die moment where legends are made. And on this day, Ulloa proved why he’s considered one of the sport’s elite. With the crowd roaring, he maneuvered through Valiente’s defense and struck the ball with surgical precision, scoring the golden goal that handed Park Place an 11-10 victory. The celebration was immediate and electric—teammates embraced, mallets flew into the air, and fans erupted in applause. For Park Place, this wasn’t just a win; it was a statement.
The Team Behind the Triumph
Park Place’s roster reads like a dream team of polo talent. Leading the charge was Hilario Ulloa, a 10-goal-rated superstar whose performance in the final was nothing short of masterful. Alongside him were Louis Hine (5 goals), a steady and reliable presence; Peke González (7 goals), whose agility and vision shone throughout; and Andrey Borodin (0 goals), the glue that held the unit together. This victory marks Park Place’s second U.S. Open title, following their 2021 triumph, and solidifies their status as one of England’s proudest sporting exports.
Coca Cola, though defeated, put up a valiant fight. Their lineup featured Polito Pieres (9 goals), Lorenzo Chavanne (5 goals), Julian de Lussarreta (7 goals), and Gillian Johnston.
A British Connection and a Legacy of Excellence
As a British company, we take immense pride in supporting Park Place, an English team that embodies the spirit of excellence and tradition we hold dear. Their success on American soil is a testament to the global reach of British sporting heritage, blending elegance with fierce competitiveness. This win isn’t just a feather in their cap—it’s a victory for everyone who believes in the power of teamwork, determination, and a well-struck polo ball.
Adding to the richness of the polo community is Krono Polo, a brand synonymous with quality and craftsmanship. For many years, Krono Polo has partnered with Louis Hine, a collaboration that elevates the sport through innovation and style. Their presence in the polo world underscores the deep ties between tradition and modernity, ensuring that events like the U.S. Open remain a showcase of both athletic prowess and sartorial splendor.
Hilario Ulloa: A Star on the Rise
At the heart of this victory is Hilario Ulloa, a name that’s fast becoming legendary in polo circles. Hailing from Argentina, the cradle of polo greatness, Ulloa has spent years honing his craft, earning his 10-goal handicap through sheer talent and tenacity. His performance in the final—scoring critical goals in regulation and the clincher in overtime—was a masterclass in composure under pressure. For Ulloa, this U.S. Open title is the latest jewel in a crown that already includes multiple high-profile wins across continents.
What makes Ulloa special isn’t just his skill with a mallet; it’s his ability to rise to the occasion when the stakes are highest. As Park Place lifted the trophy, it was clear that Ulloa’s golden goal wasn’t just a moment of individual brilliance—it was the culmination of a team effort he’d inspired all season long.
Looking Ahead
The U.S. Open Polo Championship has once again proven why it’s one of the crown jewels of the sport. For Park Place, this victory sets the stage for an exciting future. Will they defend their title in 2026? Can Ulloa continue his reign as one of polo’s brightest stars? And how will Valiente regroup after this gut-wrenching loss? The answers lie ahead, but for now, Park Place and their supporters—including us—can bask in the glow of a hard-fought triumph.
As the sun set over Wellington, the echoes of hooves and the crack of mallets faded into the evening, leaving behind a story of drama, skill, and glory. Park Place’s English spirit, bolstered by Ulloa’s Argentine flair, has given us all something to celebrate. Here’s to more golden goals and more unforgettable moments on the polo field.