May 16 Polo Classic – Postponed Due to Weather Forecast, Champagne Brunch and Auction Still on Schedule
By K.J. WEBB
Contributing Writer
FIRST MATCH: Polo players from the first annual The Center Polo Classic race at Tulsa’s Mohawk Park.
Note: The Annual Polo Classic to benefit the The Center for Individuals with Physical Challenges (The Center) has been postponed due to the weather forecast.
The Polo Game that will be re-scheduled and general admission tickets will be honored for admission to the re-scheduled game.
The Champagne Brunch will still take place for Sponsors/VIP and Tailgaters Sat. May 16 starting at 11:30 at The Center, 815 S Utica Ave. in Tulsa.
The Silent Auction, Gift Card Pull and Jewelry Pull will be held during the day. Please encourage your guests to wear their planned polo attire as there will be having a photo booth with polo props.
Event Schedule:
11:30 am – /Sponsor Check-in and Meet-n-Greet Reception. Merchandise, Silent Auction, Gift Card Pull and Jewelry Pull opens
12 noon – Champagne Brunch/Program
12:30 p.m. – Tailgater Check-in
1 pm – AUCTION – all /Sponsors/Tailgaters invited to attend
1:45 pm – Merchandise, Silent Auction, Gift Card Pull and Jewelry Pull, Hors D’oeuvres and Open Bar
3 pm – Silent Auction Closes, Merchandise, Gift Card Pull and Jewelry Pull remain open as long as items are available
3:30 pm – Check Out
Original Article
The Center for Individuals with Physical Challenges (The Center) is a nonprofit organization that provides opportunities for individuals with physical disabilities to enhance their quality of life. The Center operates three main services areas: Fitness, Recreation and Community Reintegration.
The Center receives major support from the annual Polo Classic which will be held this year on Saturday, May 16 at Arrowhead Polo Club, Mohawk Park. Erin Jacobs, director of community relations for The Center, says, “The Center Polo Classic is our biggest fundraising effort every year. This will be our third year and we are adding a silent auction, gift card pull and some well-known polo players to the mix!” The Center started the event because it wanted a unique event to match its unique mission. The event is inclusive allowing the general community to participate in a one-of-a-kind afternoon experience for the whole family.
Jacobs encourages area residents to attend the event. “We want the community to come out to the Polo Classic because it is a fun and affordable way to support a nonprofit. Sponsorships start at just $300, which would get you a seat under the air-conditioned tent.” Tailgating is a popular event offering which allows guests to reserve their own 10-by-10 tent and have a party of their own. General admission is $25 for adults and $10 for children 12 and under. In addition, there is a kids’ play area, a Lambrusco’z To Go Mini Market as well as complimentary water and champagne. At halftime the traditional divot stomping will take place as well as a kid’s competition.
When asked about other ways the community could support The Center, in addition to attending The Center Polo Classic, Jacobs says, “Volunteer with us. Offer assistance to those in the community with a disability, but always ask first. Donations to The Center are always welcome so we can provide more services to serve more people.”
When asked about The Center’s client focus, Jacobs replies, “We serve individuals with a wide-range of disabilities like stroke survivors, traumatic brain injuries, those who suffer from degenerative diseases and even those with arthritis or hypertension.”
The Center’s programs benefit people with physical challenges through encouraging skill development for individual success. According to Jacobs, The Center also serves as a resource center for members and their families. Another important service offered by The Center is support through the challenges of a life-changing event. “After a life-changing accident or illness,” Jacobs says, “people can become depressed. The Center serves as a safe place for members to adjust to their new body and get support from others going through similar struggles. Our members say that The Center feeds mind, body and soul.”
When asked about any challenges facing The Center, Jacobs says, “Obviously, as a nonprofit, money is always a challenge, but since the beginning in 1957, the Tulsa community has come through to support us in a big way. We are also a United Way agency.” Another challenge, Jacobs says, is transportation for The Center’s membership. Restrictions and cost of public transit can reduce how many days a week members can access The Center. Jacobs adds, “This is why events such as The Center Polo Classic are so important for The Center and our mission.”
Event Information: The Center Polo Classic will be held Saturday, May 16 at Arrowhead Polo Club at Mohawk Park. Champagne Bruch starts at 11:00 a.m., Polo Match starts at 1:00 p.m. Tickets are $25 for adults and $10 for children under 12.
For more information about The Center for Individuals with Physical Challenges visit tulsacenter.org.
Updated 05-15-2015
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