Polo star Nic Roldan hits the field amid a flurry of projects, adding some star power to the season.
Photographed by NICK MELE
“Polo is a very complex sport, and if you’re not fully invested, it can become a very hard sport to succeed in.”–NIC ROLDAN
My passion for the sport is something I’ll never lose; it’s given me everything I have today,” says polo powerhouse Nic Roldan (nicroldan.com). The dashing star of the field carved a niche for himself in the sport with his unwavering dedication. Having started playing polo at a young age, he quickly rose to prominence, becoming the youngest player to win the U.S. Open Polo Championship. Roldan’s response is heartfelt and inspiring when asked how he keeps his passion for the sport alive after all these years: “Of course, winning the U.S. Open is an achievement I’m tremendously proud of,” he shares. “However, there are always other prestigious tournaments to win, goals to achieve and another U.S. Open to put my name on.”
Nic Roldan Photographed by NICK MELE
Polo training is no easy feat, and Roldan’s typical week reflects his commitment to maintaining peak physical and mental condition. “Training, fitness and health always come first. A typical week consists of three training sessions in the gym, multiple recovery sessions and, of course, riding and practicing, which always depend on tournament schedules,” he explains. Balancing the physical and strategic aspects of the game is crucial, and Roldan emphasizes the importance of recovery. “Recovery is extremely important and is often overlooked. For instance, my cold plunge pool is my go-to, and I see huge benefits in my body’s recovery. Team and strategic preparation are constant with each tournament we play, including team meetings, etc.”
Reflecting on his career, Roldan says one match is particularly memorable. “The most memorable game I’ve played to date has been the 2018 final of the Queen’s Cup in the U.K. Not only did we win, but we were presented the cup by Her late Majesty the Queen herself in one of her last attendances at polo,” Roldan recalls with pride.
Nic Roldan showcases unwavering dedication to the sport. Photographed by NICK MELE
As a prominent figure in American polo, Roldan is dedicated to influencing the next generation of players. He stresses the importance of hard work and dedication, especially the intricate role of horses in the sport. “Horses require countless hours of training. Polo is a very complex sport, and if you’re not fully invested, it can become a very hard sport to succeed in.” His involvement with the Polo Training Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to teaching youth through polo, reflects his commitment to giving back. “It’s important to me to give back to a sport that has given me everything, and see it done in the right way.”
Beyond polo, Roldan has successfully transitioned into real estate, integrating his sports discipline into his business strategies. “I’ve been investing in real estate throughout most of my polo career, and it’s slowly evolved into what is now a real estate, design and development brand. My discipline is constant whether I’m on the field competing or off the field walking a new site for a potential development opportunity,” he shares. This venture allows him to channel his passion and inspiration from his travels into creating unique styles in the real estate market.
Nic Roldan saddles up Photographed by NICK MELE
Roldan’s entrepreneurial spirit also led him to the spirits industry with High Goal Luxury Gin. Inspired by his experiences in England, he aimed to bring a passion for gin to the United States. “We wanted to create a liquid that was both smooth and refreshing whilst being very approachable for the U.S. palate,” he says. High Goal Gin stands out in a saturated market by offering a smooth taste that can be enjoyed neat, making it a unique boutique offering. Philanthropy is a significant part of Roldan’s brand, particularly causes focused on children. Since 2016, he has hosted Nic Roldan’s Sunset Polo & White Party to raise funds. “In 2022, we formed Sunset Polo International, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) foundation, organized and operated as a charitable, grant-making organization to support projects focused on the welfare of children and educating about the sport of polo,” Roldan explains. Looking to the future, Roldan is excited about expanding his polo and real estate ventures as he continues to grow Roldan Homes.
“Horses require countless hours of training,” says Roldan. Photographed by NICK MELE
Regardless of the venture, it is clear that the discipline and dedication on the field also translate to success off the field for this polo star. Roldan will once again return to Palm Beach for the 7th Annual Nic Roldan’s Sunset Polo & White Party on March 21 (sunsetpolo.com).
“Everyone loves a party, so why not combine a good time with fundraising and bringing awareness to others about causes that need our support,” he shares. “I am very proud of the charities we have helped and the funds we have raised.”
Roldan will once again return to Palm Beach to host Nic Roldan’s Sunset Polo & White Party. Photographed by NICK MELE
Photography by: Photo By Nick Mele
