The renowned Puntacana Resort & Club recently hosted the fifth edition of the prestigious Save the Children National Polo Tournament – Copa Gulf, at the elegant Puntacana Polo Club. This year’s event celebrated outstanding careers in polo and raised over RD$6 million to support children’s literacy and education in vulnerable communities across the Dominican Republic.
Held in the heart of Punta Cana, La Altagracia, the event honored the contributions of polo legends Federico Ramos, Nicolás Seliman, Víctor “Vitin” Hernández, Tony Delgado, and Alejandro Tirado. The Puntacana Polo Team / La Bienvenida triumphed in the championship match, securing an 11-9 win over Team La Patrona. Third place went to Cayacoa / La Carmela, who bested Barceló Imperial. Mauricio Bogaert was named Most Valuable Player, while the mare Claribel, owned by Juan Tomás Díaz, earned Best Playing Pony. Women’s polo was also celebrated, with Praxila Trabatoni and Arianna van Schermbeek receiving special recognitions.
The event brought together teams from La Patrona, La Carmela, Barceló Imperial, Rancho La Americana, Cayacoa, Puntacana Polo Team, and La Bienvenida. Guests enjoyed the charismatic hosting of Reyson Pimentel, Ingrid Gómez, and Marcelle Flores.
A highlight of the day was the resort-chic fashion show “La Estilista Runaway Experience”, curated by acclaimed stylist Deborah Karter. Top Dominican brands such as Santa Paloma, Maylé Vásquez, Casa Maraca, INDÓ MITA, and Call Me Lola graced the runway, complemented by Mónica Varela’s fine jewelry and CASTAÑER espadrilles.
Puntacana Resort & Club welcomed an elite crowd of residents, property owners, and visitors who enjoyed the exclusive ambiance, live entertainment, and a striking horse parade celebrating Higüey’s equestrian traditions.
Juan Tomás Díaz, president of Save the Children Dominican Republic, expressed deep gratitude to all participants and reaffirmed the organization’s mission: “We are committed to building a better future for our children through education, literacy, and opportunities for growth. This event is a symbol of what we can achieve together.”
The tournament proceeds will fund literacy and early math programs for primary school children in underserved areas such as Elías Piña, El Seibo, San Pedro de Macorís, and La Altagracia.
The awards ceremony, held at the stunning Puntacana Polo Club, was led by influential figures including Frank Elías Rainieri, Paola Rainieri de Díaz, and designers like Teresa de la Pisa. Officials and referees Lisandro Esnal and Julio Coria ensured a seamless and fair competition.
Supported by over 100 sponsors—including Banreservas, Grupo Rica, Copa Airlines, and Banco Popular—the event reinforced the role of Puntacana Resort & Club not only as a luxury destination but as a hub for meaningful, community-driven impact.
About Save the Children
As the world’s largest independent organization for children, Save the Children operates in over 120 countries. In the Dominican Republic, it has been a vital force since 1972, delivering programs in health, education, child protection, and emergency response across 11 provinces.
Whether you’re a polo enthusiast, fashion lover, or advocate for social impact, Puntacana Resort & Club offers more than just world-class experiences—it’s where purpose meets paradise.
