Horses, elegance, and style – Uwe Zimmermann on what makes the La Estancia Polo Cup special

Galloping horses, elegant attire, and a touch of Argentine flair – the La Estancia Polo Cup is once again on Hungary’s summer social calendar. The Zimmermann family organises the event every year, and we sat down with Uwe Zimmermann to learn about the history and spirit of the polo festival and the secrets that make this event so unique. From world-class horses to unforgettable hospitality, Zimmermann also gives us a glimpse of what guests can expect at this year’s tournament.

Question: How did the tradition of polo start at La Estancia?

Uwe: La Estancia, our private family retreat, was always meant to be a place for family, friends and polo. I have been playing polo for more than 3 decades now, and my entire family is playing too. Our sons became not only nice young gentlemen, but good polo players too.

Q: What inspired you to promote this sport in Hungary?

Uwe: I started with polo and could not find any suitable place in Hungary in the early 90s to keep the polo horses in a safe place polo and play. So, we decided to build our own polo place, providing the best possible conditions for horses and players and to create a „little Argentina“ in Etyek, Hungary.

Q: Can you tell us about the very first major event held here?

Uwe: This must have been in 2002. For the first time in Hungary, we welcomed 4 international polo teams (with a famous 9-goal player) and recruited some high-profile sponsors to support the event. The gala dinner, an important part of the social activity, was held at the Szabo Ervin Library „Wenckheim Palota“ with 120 invited guests.

Q: What challenges and successes did you experience over the years?

Uwe: It’s always a challenge when you deal with animals and nature, but we managed quite well. Where there was not a single tree 27 years ago is now a little forest in the club. The infrastructure has improved over the years, and La Estancia has become a meeting point for friends. By organising international polo tournaments and Fox Hunts, we established the place as an island of style and fun.

Q: What are the core values or traditions from the early days that you are most committed to preserving?

Uwe: It’s our family values and hospitality. We respect nature and try to live in accordance with nature. There are no chemicals used in the place…we have more than 30 species of birds, snakes, hedgehogs, fish, and even a tortoise is calling La Estancia home. The farm produces eggs, fresh chickens, many vegetables (including the famous peppers and chillis of Pippo) and fruits. About 2500 trees were planted over the years and are now forming a natural reserve.

Q: What can visitors expect at this year’s event in June? Are there any new features or special highlights?

Uwe: We always try to surprise our guests by providing fun, good food and drinks, playing great music and giving room to socialising with all the guests. With 5 polo teams with players from 8 nations, the La Estancia Polo Cup is by far the biggest polo event in Hungary and the region. But, more important than the sizes, is the blend of local and international friends and guests pampered by the highly appreciated support of our sponsors and partners.