Polo tradition returns to Rose Hill in April

A Lowcountry polo tradition dating back nearly five decades is set for a revival this spring as organizers work to restore the sport’s long-standing presence at Rose Hill.
Equus Charities of the Lowcountry plans to host the Rose Hill Charity Polo Match on April 12 at the Rose Hill Equestrian Center in Bluffton. Organizers say the event marks a renewed effort to give polo a permanent home at the historic field, where the sport thrived for decades.

Polo was first introduced to the Hilton Head Island area in the late 1970s at Honey Horn Plantation by Dr. Sandy S. Termotto and other community members. The field relocated to Rose Hill in the early 1980s and has remained there since, according to event organizers.

Termotto Polo Field. Organizers describe it as the only regulation-size polo field between southern Florida, Charleston and Aiken — two South Carolina cities long associated with equestrian sports.

Emily Termotto-Trott, founder and board president of Equus Charities of the Lowcountry, said the nonprofit was formed as a 501(c)(3) organization to ensure the tradition remains active while supporting community causes. The group has scheduled both a spring match in April and a fall match in October.

This year’s spring event will benefit Heroes on Horseback, a Bluffton-based therapeutic riding program serving children and adults with special needs and veterans. The organization is a PATH International-certified center, reflecting standards set by the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International.

The April 12 match is scheduled from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. and will feature two regional polo teams in a traditional format. Organizers say the event is designed to provide a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere while raising funds for the therapeutic riding program.

Local food and beverage vendors are expected to participate, and VIP hospitality will be offered to team and platinum sponsors.

Polo has appeared intermittently at Rose Hill in recent years, but organizers say the 2026 season represents a more structured effort to restore regular matches and strengthen the sport’s community presence in the Lowcountry.

The Rose Hill Charity Polo Match will take place at the Rose Hill Equestrian Center, 10 Equestrian Way, Bluffton. For more information and ticketing, visit equuscharitiesofthelowcountry.com.