Every kind of game was being played along the sideline. Lacrosse, football, Cornhole, bocce all made an appearance while a long line of tailgaters enjoyed adult beverages and finger foods.
But everyone was just messing around in anticipation of the main event.
The Sarasota Polo Club opened its season Dec. 15 and the sidelines were packed on both sides of the field.
Action continues every Sunday through April 12.
La Estampida/Hillcroft's James Miller (4) tries to connect during the season opener with Scott Doyle right behind him if needed.
Sarasota Polo Club owner Misdee Miller and her team parades the American Flag past the fans before the game.
Whiskey Pond/Barefield's Hernan Tasso is loving the start of the Sarasota Polo Club season.
La Estampida/Hillcroft's Stuart Campbell is ready for action as the polo season begins.
Whiskey Pond/Barefield's Guille Aguero races in front of La Estampida/Hillcroft's Stuart Campbell in the first half of their game.
Estampida/Hillcroft's Mason Wroe tries to bat the ball down.
As always at halftime, the Clydesdales were in full swing, pulling children around the field.
St. Petersburg's Robin Zimmermaker, daughter Kristen Zimmermaker and grandson Aiden Frappier join Heritage Harbour's Mike and Megan Abeigon at opening day.
Sarasota Polo Club owner Misdee Miller leads a team of horses on opening day.
Mark Mulligan of Whiskey Pond/Barefield scores in the first half.
Sarasota Polo Club owner James Miller greets the fans along the sideline.
Mark Mulligan of Whiskey Pond/Barefield races againt La Estampida/Hillcroft's James Miller to the ball.
Mason Wroe of La Estampida/Hillcroft reaches as far as he can for a shot.
Whiskey Pond/Barefield's Guille Aguero takes a break during the season-opening match
Whiskey Pond/Barefield's Hernan Tasso changes horses after a chukker.
La Estampida/Hillcroft's Mason Wroe is disappointed he couldn't quite stop a goal by the opposing team.
La Estampida/Hillcroft's Stuart Campbell breaks free from the pack.
La Estampida/Hillcroft's James Miller is riding on air during the polo club's season opener.
La Estampida/Hillcroft's Scott Doyle advances the ball during the opener.
Estampida/Hillcroft's Mason Wroe charges ahead in the second half.
Whiskey Pond/Barefield's Guille Aguero gets ready to launch a shot on goal.
Estampida/Hillcroft's Scott Doyle gets to the ball before the pack.
The fans often get up close and personal with the action.
