Newport Polo raised more than $80,000 for local environmental organizations at its 24th Annual International Polo Charity Ball on Aug. 1 at Rosecliff Mansion.
The sold-out “Singapore Swing” gala, presented by BD, honored the Singapore Polo Team while supporting four Rhode Island conservation groups: Eastern Rhode Island Conservation District, Save The Bay, Roger Williams Park Zoo and Newport Tree Conservancy.
The fundraising brings Newport Polo’s total charitable contributions to more than $2.3 million over 34 years, according to founder and president Dan Keating.
“We are deeply grateful to our generous donors and bidders, who have helped Newport Polo raise over $2.3 million to date for nonprofit organizations over the past 34 years,” Keating said.
The evening featured Singapore-inspired cuisine, including sesame shrimp toast, chili crab in puff pastry and curry samosas. NBC10’s Molly Levine served as master of ceremonies, with auctioneer William Crisp conducting the live auction.
Auction items included an African photo safari, Jackson Hole ski package, luxury yacht cruise and Fort Lauderdale Boat Show getaway.
Nancy Parker Wilson, chair of the Eastern Rhode Island Conservation District, praised the international collaboration.
“As a farmer, I know how vital healthy soil and clean water are—not just for agriculture, but for our whole community,” Wilson said. “It’s an honor to celebrate with friends from Singapore in such a joyful way—bringing people together for the planet we all share.”
The charity ball has supported numerous organizations over its 24-year history, including the Newport Historical Society, The Jeffrey Osborne Foundation, Newport Classical, Hope Funds for Cancer Research and the Wounded Warrior Project.
Newport Polo was established in 1876 as America’s first polo club and is a founding member of the United States Polo Association. The Newport International Polo Series has hosted teams from 35 countries over its 32 seasons.