What is The District Cup?

The District Cup is an annual Polo cup on the National Mall. It aims to bring players together from various polo communities to play on America’s front yard, while attendees can watch the oldest team sport on earth. Each year, four teams compete, with one ultimately winning “The District Cup.”

The District Cup Team is comprised of incredibly talented individuals. Co-Chair key members, Host Committee members, and volunteers work hard each year to put on an event on The National Mall. We work closely with NPS and various polo clubs all across the country and several international federations to actively recruit players, horses, and polo experts to keep our beloved horses, riders, and guests safe. The District Cup is an inclusive event intended to provide access to our wonderful sport and encourage new athletes to give this adrenaline-filled sport a try!

How Did The District Cup Start?

While the sport of polo is older than recorded history, we know that its origins are in the inspirational relationship between humans and horses. This special bond and the unique blending of athletic talents between horse and rider have helped polo evolve into a sport enjoyed by all who come together in the spirit of magnetic bonds.

The polo field at West Potomac Park on the National Mall has been a popular site for polo matches since the early 1900s. During World War II, members of the military used the field for intramural games to allow service members an opportunity to enjoy the simplicity of kinship in sport.

Today, TDC has taken on the proverbial baton of keeping this tradition alive.

Look back on previous District Cup events: