Polo fundraiser set this weekend

By Sam Waller

For nearly four decades, Polo on the Prairie has raised millions of dollars for cancer research and patient programs at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Research Center.

The 37th edition of the annual event, which will be held Saturday, April 29 at the Musselman Brothers’ Lazy 3 Ranch, has already sold out with more than $1 million raised.

“We’ve got so many generous donors who have also been loyal supporters for so very long,” Melinda Musselman said. “It’s not just a local event; it’s really a statewide event. People come from everywhere.”

This year’s event gets underway at 4:00 p.m. Saturday. A special opening ceremony is planned with Amelia Gilroy and Hattie Fikes performing a choreographed mounted routine during the National Anthem. The four-chukker polo match will be followed by a barbecue dinner and a performance by The Mavericks. A fireworks display will close the evening.

Musselman said a crowd of about 1,250 is expected.

Three teams of international players from Chile, Argentina, Mexico, California, Colorado, and Texas will exhibit their skills.

“We have quite a representation of places they’ve come from to participate,” she said.

In addition to the polo, dinner, and musical entertainment, attendees will hear from MD Anderson’s staff and patients.

“We always look forward to meeting the doctors and staff,” Musselman said. “One of the doctors gives a brief presentation on things going on at the hospital. We love to have a patient give a testimonial on their experience at the hospital because it’s always rewarding to hear from somebody who has actually been treated at MD Anderson.”