Born + Bred for Polo

Of the unpublished Hunter S Thompson (1935 – 2005) writings, there is a work called Polo Is My Life. While Thompson himself was from Kentucky and had made journalism history by inventing gonzo journalism in his seminal piece of writing about the Kentucky Derby in 1970, he was not describing himself, but a polo aficionado he met and interviewed. The sport, like many niche sports, attracted a certain breed of person who went the whole hog. Let’s explore polo a bit,  find out why it brings out the passion in its adherents, and see how it connects to Bex. 

Polo in Hunterdon County 

In Hunterdon County, New Jersey, the Polo Classic took place on June 10th, a family-friendly charity event that benefits the Hunterdon Art Museum, Flemington Food Pantry, Riding with Heart, and other charities. This part of New Jersey is ideal for equestrian activities, given its valleys between hill ranges, preservation of open spaces, and rural values. Basically, wherever there are horse communities you will likely find polo, and it is popular in 77 countries around the world.  

Polo Origins 

Polo is a game with ancient roots in the Parthian Empire (247 BC – 224 AD) in Central Asia and the Middle East (now modern-day Iran). It spread outward as a game favored by the ruling classes and noblemen. More recently in history, Britain’s colonial tenure in India increased polo’s presence. It is much like soccer but on horseback, with competing teams moving a ball around the playing field with mallets. Interestingly, there are variations in some places on the animal ridden, including camel, elephant, and yak polo! 

The Bex Connection

Bex has long provided catering for the Polo Classic, including winning Best Display the past three years in a row. This year’s theme was Black & White. A lot of planning and design goes into special events that Bex does, from the menu to match the theme to logistical and practical considerations. Against the black and white color backdrop, Chef Becky chose foods and colors with colorful summer pop, such as pink (shrimp, watermelon), seasonal fruits, and foods with nostalgic appeal. She used Mini Black Cherry soda floats with cherries to go with lobster rolls and popcorn, all served in checkered containers evoking sock hops, jukeboxes, and simpler days of yesteryear. 

This Just In 

Bex won again– the fourth year in a row! Following her three-year run of wins for Nautical, Tea Party, and Garden Party themes, Bex took home another win for this year’s Black & White theme. 

So saddle up Ol’ Bessie and come visit us at Bex: our European-style cafe is open Thursdays through Sundays (and holiday Mondays). We also have package deals available for special events: we do all the work, the food is designed for room temperature, and it’s easy to do. 

Happy trails!