Juan Redlich, a prominent professional polo player, is experiencing a memorable summer on Long Island as he plays alongside his son, Juancito, who aspires to follow in his father’s footsteps. At 47, Juan reflects on the brevity of his playing career, stating that sharing this experience with his son is the greatest gift he could ask for. The family dynamic is central to their lives, and their connection to each other is emphasized by their shared passion for polo, which has deep roots in their hometown of Venado Tuerto, Argentina—a vibrant locale known for its enthusiasm for the sport.
Juancito has been absorbing numerous lessons from his father, particularly concerning horse care and the relationships with grooms that are essential in polo. As the young athlete intensifies his English studies during the family’s summer on Long Island, he revels in the opportunity to practice and hone his skills both in the field and in communication. This experience of training and competing together has elicited excitement back in Argentina, where their family lineage in polo is earning recognition and admiration on a larger scale.
The Redlich family spends their summer months in Huntington, cherishing the beauty and community surrounding the North Shore. They frequently participate in the lively atmosphere at Meadow Brook Polo Club and Bethpage State Park, where the free-to-attend matches have made Juan a popular figure among spectators. The sport of polo demands rigorous physical effort and skill, necessitating the players to switch horses frequently throughout the matches, which adds an additional layer of complexity and expense to the sport.
Transporting horses from Argentina incurs significant costs, often exceeding $12,500 per horse, a financial responsibility that falls on individual players, supported by their sponsors. Throughout this summer, Juan has successfully brought nine horses to Long Island, expressing pride in Juancito’s natural rapport with the animals. Juan observes that his son demonstrates empathy and kindness in his interactions with the horses, enhancing their performance on the field—qualities essential for success in the sport.
Juancito’s affinity for riding began in childhood, but his passion for polo flourished during the isolation brought on by the pandemic. Riding provided not only an escape but also a focus during those uncertain times, allowing him to grow closer to the sport. While he acknowledges the influence of his father’s guidance, Juancito has developed his own unique style and determination in the saddle, which Juan recognizes and appreciates. Juancito has ambitious goals for the next few years, hoping to elevate his skill set to compete professionally while balancing the consideration of a college education focused on agriculture as a safety net.
Ultimately, the essence of their shared journey is rooted in the pursuit of success and a love for the sport. Juancito expresses a straightforward aspiration: to improve as a player while benefiting from his father’s guidance. This summer represents a pivotal moment for both father and son, intertwining their personal growth and familial bond through the dynamic and challenging world of polo. Juancito’s optimism and gratitude for being able to share these experiences with his father encapsulate the heartwarming reality of their relationship and aspirations in the sport they love.
