Integrated into the natural beauty of the thick, mountainous jungle in San Pancho, Mexico, lies a polo club with a unique environmental ideology. Every aspect of La Patrona, from the design and structure of the buildings to the local staff, was envisioned by founders Ivan Echeverria and Gabrielle Weber to preserve the surrounding landscape and abundant biodiversity. Notable for its authenticity, La Patrona creates a cultural fusion which encompasses both world-class polo on the field and the experience of traditional Mexican culture.
Set on a vast nature reserve in close proximity to the beach, La Patrona’s distinct architecture was designed to exist in harmony while emphasizing the area’s natural beauty. Built from locally sourced materials, the unique bioclimatic pyramid structures gracing the premises were incorporated to optimize water and energy use and maintain temperature integrity, concepts in place to promote environmentalism and social responsibility.
“La Patrona makes the most out of the ecological ambience it’s location affords and fosters a wonderful preservation program with sustainable incentives, giving visitors a great feel good factor,” remarked Ebe Sievwright, visiting Director of Guards Polo Academy. “All the staff are local and grew up in the town of San Pancho so there is a social responsibility too. The club is designed to give back and that’s not just a gesture.” Sievwright, based at the prestigious Guards Polo Club in England, is excited to return to San Pancho, offering full concierge and instructional services at La Patrona throughout the months of November, January, and February. Alongside Sievwright will be Tommy Elliot, Director of Polo and Equestrian at La Patrona, continuing polo itineraries until March 2018.
With so much to offer outside of the scope of polo, La Patrona’s ocean side vibe allows it to transform into the perfect Mexican vacation resort. After a day practicing on the field, guests can spend their free time enjoying the beautiful beach club, covered by one of the largest traditional Palapa (palm leaf thatch) roofs in the world. A rarity in the world of polo, the beach club is a place to relax and take in the idyllic views, featuring a spa, two restaurants with bars, and viewing galleries.
For those who crave a richer cultural experience and want to get a feel for the real Mexico, you are in luck, as the local town is a charming place to explore. “San Pancho is a very friendly town with original local businesses not rows of luxury boutiques only catered to high-end visitors,” Sievwright said. “It is a snapshot of all the best elements of original Mexican culture.” Walking the streets of San Pancho to browse the shops is a good way to see an interesting selection of arts and crafts representative of all regions in the country. Try authentic street food, listen to music, and check out the paintings and jewelry designs of local artists, an experience in itself.
Adventure awaits at every turn, promising a unique and unforgettable experience for all guests of La Patrona regardless of their interests. For those who want a break from polo, the club has two full size dressage and show jumping arenas or escape for a stroll down the beach on one of the club’s Fresians or polo ponies. Guests can plunge into the clear coastal waters for snorkeling, sign up for a surfing lesson, or work on their swing at the adjoining Las Huertas golf course. For a truly breathtaking experience, make the short trip by boat to spot whales and dolphins or brave the lush jungle on a hiking tour. Uniting guests with the love of polo, La Patrona is a tropical oasis filled to the brim with opportunities to not only play the sport at any level, but create exciting memories off the field. Drawing polo talent from all over the world, experience the difference of La Patrona for yourself.
Contact Ebe Sievwright at ebe@ebepolo.com for more information on this unique polo destination.