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Work to Ride Celebrates

Work to Ride Celebrates Second Annual Philadelphia Arena Polo Championship

Philadelphia’s Work to Ride welcomed spectators to its Second Annual Philadelphia Arena Polo Championship on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at the McCausland Arena at Chamounix Equestrian Center in Fairmount Park.

The event brought together current Work to Ride student-athletes, alumni, and accomplished polo players for an exciting day of competition, community engagement, and fundraising in support of the organization’s youth development programs.

Hacina Saadi and Kharisma McIlwaine
Stephanie Brock, Elyse Harvey, Madelynne Ferra and Olivia DiGiacomo

The festivities featured two polo matches, beginning with a morning competition showcasing Work to Ride students and alumni. The afternoon championship featured Mt. Gordon Farms taking on Mars Equestrian, giving spectators an up-close experience of the fast-paced sport inside one of the region’s most distinctive equestrian facilities.

Legendary Society Photographer Susan Scovill and her daughter Lucy

Beyond the matches, guests enjoyed food from Candy Girl, Wokworks and The Coffee Club PHL, refreshments from MilkBoy, local vendors, live DJ entertainment, lawn games, and an interactive experience with the Philly Goat Project.

Susan Slawson, Commissioner · Philadelphia Parks & Recreation, Work to Ride under Executive Director Kareem Rosser, Lezlie Hiner, Founder Work to Ride , Michael Newmius, Philly’s Director of 2026

The championship also marked an important chapter for Work to Ride after the reigns to the organization were passed to Kareem Rosser, a former program participant and nationally accomplished polo player, and now executive director. Former executive director and founder, Lezlie Hiner, Work to Ride has helped generations of underserved Philadelphia youth develop confidence, leadership, teamwork, and educational opportunities through horsemanship and equestrian sports.

Ray Lauriano and Todd McCoy

Proceeds from the championship support the organization’s continued growth, including expanded after-school programming, riding lessons, summer camps, and other opportunities designed to introduce more Philadelphia children to the equestrian world.

Gail Neal and John Acamia

Spectators filled the bleachers, as well as the VIP tables along the rail.

Amy and Robert Kelly

Work to Ride is more than polo. It’s about mentorship, education, and creating opportunities for Philadelphia’s youth. You can help change lives by donating, volunteering, or spreading the word. Support this incredible Philadelphia nonprofit at WorkToRide.net

See you next year!! HughE

By HughE Dillon

Chronicling Philadelphia

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