What is the Charity Polo Classic?

Charity Polo Classic was founded in early December 2011 by advertising executive and professional polo player Patrick Moraites, alongside Chris Gannon. Driven by a shared passion for philanthropy and polo, they set out to create an event unlike any other in Greater Tampa Bay. With the help of their business contacts and friends, they assembled the Inaugural Charity Polo Classic Planning Committee. Tasked with organizing a large-scale event in just three months, the team rose to the challenge. Now, more than 13 years later, this vibrant and unique polo event is poised to raise more funds than ever before. Don’t miss out – we look forward to seeing you in 2025!

Charity Polo Classic

Every two years, the Charity Polo Classic selects its benefiting charities through a highly competitive grant process. This process includes charity presentations, thorough reviews, and formal decision-making, ultimately resulting in the selection of three main beneficiaries. In 2019, a "pay-it-forward" selection process was introduced, largely driven by the event's success and the planning committee's commitment to utilizing their extensive network across Tampa Bay. This network, crucial for organizing an event featuring horses, luxury cars, and signature cocktails, has enabled more than twenty local nonprofit organizations to receive vital financial support.

 Clothes To Kids + Charity Polo Classic

Since 2017, Charity Polo Classic and its Board of Directors have been steadfast supporters of our mission. Thanks to their unwavering dedication, we’ve been able to provide more than 8,000 wardrobes to children in the Greater Tampa Bay area together.

At Clothes To Kids, we believe when you look good, you feel good. We provide new and gently used clothing, free of charge, to low-income or in crisis school-aged children. Our unique stores, offering a free shopping experience, set us apart. By allowing children to "shop" for their clothing, we not only ensure they have access to much-needed apparel but also help boost their self-esteem and confidence. Since 2002, we’ve distributed more than 210,000 wardrobes, making a tangible difference in the lives of local youth.

We rely on both monetary and clothing donations from our community to stock our stores in Clearwater, St. Petersburg, and Tampa. Our newest store in Tampa was made possible in part through the generosity of the Charity Polo Classic. Together, we shop to clothe a child and change a life.