Grand Hotel Savoia Cortina, best known for being the glamorous grande dame hotel of the Dolomites, was the main sponsor of the prestigious British Great Oaks polo team at the recent Italia Polo Challenge. With its sponsorship of the polo team, the hotel was keen to support the high-octane, luxurious side of the sport. In addition to sponsoring British Great Oaks, Grand Hotel Savoia Cortina also hosted all the participants for the duration of the tournament.
Leading the polo team as captain was none other than Cameron Bacon, widely regarded as one of the best polo players in the world. Bacon brought with him a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success, and was eager to lead his team to victory. Bacon said ahead of the event: “It is a real highlight in polo to play on snow, and the whole team is greatly looking forward to taking part in this match – not least because we’ll be playing in one of the most stunning settings in the world.” The other two members of the team were French polo player Jules Legoubin, and Argentine player Gonzalo García del Río. With a total handicap rating of 8, the team faced top-level international players, including Italian, Spanish, Argentine and English professionals.
To mark the beginning of the Italia Polo Challenge, tradition required the teams to participate in a parade, which served as the opening ceremony. The “sfilata” (parade) of the polo ponies took place on Valentine’s Day, with these lithe animals paraded down Via Roma to the hotel to meet their riders for a one-off photocall outside Grand Hotel Savoia Cortina.
Located just steps from the centre of Cortina’s picturesque town, and with breath-taking panoramic views of the Dolomites, the hotel boasts an effortless fusion of luxury and elegance, with the interior décor inspired by the majesty of the surrounding mountain peaks. With its beautiful location and luxurious amenities, this iconic hotel is the perfect destination for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the world of polo and experience the unforgettable beauty of Cortina d’Ampezzo. With the first stage of the Italia Polo Challenge having taken place in this beautiful town, it is no wonder that Grand Hotel Savoia Cortina chose to sponsor a team of polo legends, adding a little touch of glamour and luxury to their guests’ experiences.
For more information about the Italia Polo Challenge, click here and for more information about Grand Hotel Savoia Cortina, click here.