Out of caution due to the coronavirus, the Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club will postpone the opening of its 2020 season, which was scheduled to kick off on May 3.

“Because of the health and safety concerns raised by COVID-19, and the state restrictions on sports and entertainment gatherings, we’re disappointed to postpone the opening of our season to the public,” said John Muse, the club’s board president. “However, we are optimistic we will be able to resume polo competition later this summer, once restrictions are significantly lifted from current levels.

“Nevertheless, our teams are now getting their horses ready, and we continue to closely monitor the health of all players, trainers, and grooms to keep our club safe.”

While the club will remain closed to the public for the 2020 season indefinitely, the management team will continue to monitor the ever-changing state of the coronavirus, and take extra precautions planning for what the future might look like.

“The health and safety of our membership, staff, and the community are of the utmost importance to us,” said David Sigman, the club’s general manager. “As we look ahead toward the possible reopening of the club for spectators when restrictions are lifted, we are creating new safety procedures for seating, dining, beverage service, and much more, to ensure the safest environment for guests.”

Meanwhile, the boarding part of the facility remains active as a home for polo ponies.

“Although we’re greatly disappointed that we had to suspend opening day, the club continues to offer the highest quality care and a safe environment for the polo ponies that live in the barns and the staff that take care of them,” said Melanja Jones, the club’s polo manager.

“It was heartbreaking to suspend competitive matches, but as an animal boarding operation we are grateful for the ability to support our members with a home for their horses,” Jones said.

The Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club offers three high goal fields, a polo school, boarding facilities, polo lessons and country club amenities including eight tennis courts and a fitness facility. For more, visit sbpolo.com.