For Hometown News
MARTIN COUNTY -
A hundred people came out for the Pony Up the Thanks! polo match hosted by Molly's House, a hospital hospitality house, and the Samaritan Center for Young Boys & Families on Feb. 4.
Tailgaters lined their cars and SUVs around the Port Mayaca Polo Club to cheer on the polo teams while enjoying a picnic and complimentary Champagne.
Some partygoers opted for the bus sponsored by Florida Power & Light for the fun-filled day.
"It was wonderful to see so many from the Treasure Coast community come out for polo," said Louise Murtaugh, executive director of Molly's House.
"It's a unique event that even inspired some guests to channel Julia Roberts from the polo scene in the movie 'Pretty Woman.' We love that people had fun and look forward to the 2013 event."
The event began at 11 a.m. with the first chukker between team Gracida and team Good Thunder.
The thrilling game, lasting nearly three hours, ended with Gracida beating Good Thunder 10 to 5. After the match, many guests opted to stay for the rest of the afternoon to enjoy the sunshine and warm temperatures.
Included in the festivities was a best hat contest with LeeAnn Jones, first, Trish Capra, second and Denise Higgins, third, as winners.
"What a wonderful and different way to say thank you to the people who support us," said Amy Christensen, Samaritan Center's community development director.
"The fun and the fellowship were remarkable. We can't wait for next year's event."
Samaritan Center for Young Boys & Families, located at 1490 S.E. Cove Road in Stuart, is a Christian, residential, early intervention program that addresses the behavioral and academic issues of young boys.
Molly's House is a hospital hospitality house that offers affordable, temporary accommodations for adult and children patients and their families receiving medical care on the Treasure Coast.