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Cartier International Dubai Polo Challenge 2014

Yesterday saw the equestrian set and some of Dubai’s socialites gather together to celebrate the 9th Cartier International Dubai Polo Challenge, held at the Desert Palm Resort under the patronage of HRH Princess Haya Bint Al Hussein. As the polo ponies and teammates battled it out on the field in the presence of HH Sheikh Mansour bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, guests mingled and got into the spirit of the sport.

Upon arrival, the long red carpet played host to a stream of well-dressed guests, including British model Poppy Delevingne, Syrian couturier Rami Al Ali, and Saudi designer Hatem Alakeel. Guests dined on a three-course lunch that was served overlooking the pool and the polo paddock.

The first battle of the day was for the Desert Palm Trophy, which saw the UAE team go head to head with the UAE Polo Team. All eyes were on HH Sheikha Maitha, the only female player on the field, as she played sportingly alongside Mohammed Al Habtoor. Yet with a 7 – 5 final tally, the (UAE team) was victorious. Between matches, guests were treated to a glimpse of the latest Amulette De Cartier fine jewelry collection, and were asked to make a wish as they threw a Cartier coin into the wishing well.

It seemed rather fitting that team Cartier took home the coveted main trophy, triumphing over rivals CNN in a 11.5 – 7 final. Cartier’s Raul Laplacette earning the La Martina Most Valuable Player Award for his efforts, while Saeed Bin Drai’s mare (ridden by Laplacette in the final) won the La Martina Best Playing Pony Rug.

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