2019 has already been a big year for Urban Polo, nominated for the second consecutive year in “best national sport” category at the Australian Event Awards, awarded a seven-year export grant by the Australian Government, and the Gold Coast Polo by the Sea mentioned in Parliament as a flagship event for the region, 2019 promises to keep delivering.
Mariano Gracida, affectionately known as Nano, is a professional polo player and the star of this year’s “Land Rover Polo in the City” series, leading the Hawian team against Australia. With champion polo players in his blood, Nano is one of four generations of skilled horsemen. Nano’s father, Carlos Gracida is celebrated as the most successful player in the history of the sport, and Nano’s brother Guillermo has won more tournament titles that any other player in the world. This talent runs deep, and, only in his mid-twenties, Nano has already won several 20-goal tournaments, making his own mark in the sport.
While Nano has big shoes to fill, he takes it in his stride, playing in his own style and giving back to the community through the Gracida Legacy Foundation, supporting youth through providing role models who instill leadership, discipline and a change in mentality.
This will be Nano’s first time in Australia, which is a place that has always been on his bucket list. “Everybody I’ve met from Australia is extremely friendly, and I cannot wait to check out the wildlife and the beaches,” he said.
Land Rover Polo in the City is the world’s largest national Polo circuit, captivating audiences from all over. Hosted in Brisbane, the event is considered one of the cities most glamorous events on the social calendar. On the day, guests are invited to mingle with players, VIP’s and celebrities, all while soaking up the ambiance and savoring the fashion on show.
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