Gay Polo League Returning to Lexington, Kentucky

This fall, the Gay Polo League (GPL) returns to the Bluegrass State for a spirited celebration of sport, inclusivity, and style at the Lexus International Gay Polo Tournament – Lexington on Saturday, September 6. The event will take place at the iconic Kentucky Horse Park, a 1,200-acre world-renowned equestrian venue in the heart of Lexington—the Horse Capital of the World.

As the world’s only LGBTQ polo league, GPL continues to break barriers in the sport. The Lexington tournament marks its second year in Kentucky and continues a longstanding partnership with Lexus, the tournament’s Title Sponsor, which has supported GPL for more than five years.

More than 1,000 attendees from around the globe are expected to join the festivities, where six teams of four players will compete for victory on Kentucky’s legendary bluegrass. From vibrant rainbow goalposts to celebratory champagne toasts, the tournament promises a unique fusion of athleticism, creativity, and community.

Off the field, guests will enjoy the return of GPL’s famed Tailgate Competition, sponsored by VisitLEX. This highly anticipated feature invites participants to transform ordinary tailgate tents into spectacular showcases of imagination, flair, and culinary charm. Teams will compete for the coveted “Best in Show” Tailgate award.

Event Schedule – Saturday, September 6

• 12:00 PM – Gates Open

• 1:00 PM – Bourbon Cup Polo Match

• 2:00 PM – Old Fashion Cup Polo Match

• 3:30 PM – Kentucky Hug Cup Polo Match

• Awards Ceremony – Immediately following the final match

Tickets & Tailgating:

• General Admission: $43.85 – includes field-side viewing, parking for one car, and access to tailgate installations.

• Tailgate Package: $750 – includes a 10’x10’ tent, admission for 10 guests, and parking for one car.Guests are welcome to bring their own chairs, refreshments, and picnic setups.

For tickets, tailgate reservations, and sponsorship opportunities, visit: www.gaypolo.com

A Legacy of Inclusion in Polo

Founded in 2006 by Chip McKenney, the Gay Polo League has become a pioneering force for diversity and inclusion in the sport. “When I started GPL, the goal was simple: to make polo more inclusive,” McKenney said. “Today, we welcome players, fans, and allies from across the globe. GPL is helping shift perceptions—not just in polo, but in athletics and society—one chukker at a time.”

Photo Credit: Sara Cole Photography