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The day was truly magical from the start. The sun was out, the field was dry and people started showing up to get a look at the silent auction table among other things!

Camilla Willings performed a stunning musical show with her horse 'Mercenario de Libertad" (Mercy). She rode with a full glass of wine and didn't spill a drop even when soaring over a jump.

YooHoo the clown came out on the field with his trusty horse explaining the subtleties of polo to the audience. His entourage was busy in the Pedigree Activity Tent, painting faces that brightened up the already picturesque setting while huge magical bubbles floated through the air.

Mayor Chuck Mercier, Township of Scugog came to support the day throwing in the first ball for the start of the game. ESGallagher Sales quickly took possession of the ball and was in the lead by the end of the first chucker. The game was fast with both teams battling it out on the field. The players and horses were ready for a break after the 3rd chucker for the half time activities.

Half time many spectators came out on the field for the traditional Divot Stomping. And it was done in style! Adults had an opportunity to quench their thirst with a complimentary glass of Trius Sparkling Wine, while children were treated to M&M's and Snickers.

The 'best divot stomping shoes' contest was enticing. We saw an incredible array of beautiful and creative footwear. With a little bit of persuasion the women got right into showing the crowd how to stomp the divots! Congratulations to our winner, Yetunde Sopeju who received a gift certificate from Scandinave Spa, Blue Mountain.

Julia Cormack, an incredible 12-year-old vocalist, delighted us with an array of jazz songs at half time.

A big thanks to Garth Riley our Master of Ceremonies. His warmth and charisma kept us captivated throughout the exhilarating day. Garth had great fun leading the live auction which provided entertainment for all.

Special thanks those who provided a live auction item, and congratulations to the winning bids!

Cedar Valley Polo Club for providing Polo with a Pro (Janet Rowe).

Pound 4 Pound MMA for providing a MMA fighting experience (Miriam Spencer)

Sideroad Twenty Cellars for providing an instant wine cellar (Marie Claude Yaacov)

Linda Patterson Kelly for providing a commissioned portrait (Reid St. Jacques)

Marc St. Jacques, 5 Star Executive Chef at he Auberge du Pommier for providing a gourmet private dinner party (Anne & Norbert Strahl).

The Deloitte Team came out of half time with a newly charged spirit to win. The second half of the match was even more impressive than the first half as both teams turned the ball and galloped towards their goal. It was right to the final chucker when Deloite scored the final goal. Big thanks to Neil Claassen for giving us the play by play during the game and many insights for those who were new to polo.

And at the end of the day, the last of the door prizes were awarded and the lucky bidders at the silent auction went to pick up their items. A very big thanks to all individuals and companies that provided items for the door prizes and silent auction!

Thor (the black Percheron from Horse Spirit Connections) was there, to be the official mascot for Polo for Hope. Thor, the big gentle giant, enjoyed officiating in his finery.

Heartfelt thanks from Buddy, a four year old thoroughbred, and Rosa, a six year old Andulusian: both new rescue horses at Horse Spirit Connections. The net proceeds from the generosity expressed by everyone at Polo for Hope will pay for their care and rehabilitation as they in turn bring healing to people.

Thanks to all for making a difference in the life of a horse!

Mark your calendar! Polo for Hope 2012 will be Sunday September 16th!