Remembering USPA Governor-at-Large Russell Sheldon
Russ Sheldon was born into a family with a passion for horses and riding, and this innate love brought him to the remarkable sport of polo in the late 70’s. He quickly became a key member in the polo community and was highly regarded for his enthusiasm and excitement for the sport, which was contagious.
As a devout mentor and supporter of youth polo programs, Russ’ contribution to the USPA Intercollegiate-Interscholastic program was without peer, and the initiatives that he put in place will continue to benefit the sport for decades to come.
The Sheldon Family notes…
The outpouring of love and support for our father has been overwhelming, but not surprising. Russ Sheldon was a man of doing. Doing for others, giving of his time, money and energy so people could enjoy the things in life that made him happy. Whether it be swinging a hammer and stretching fence line at Poway Valley Riders Association or running the drag and organizing parking for the Poway PRCA Rodeo or flying across the country to attend meetings and help organize events for youth polo on behalf of the United States Polo Association. He dedicated his life to giving back to others. Family, polo and rodeo were his passions and providing for their continuation is what he would have wanted. We invite you and your family to join us in honoring Russ Sheldon the best way we know-with food, family, friends, stories and polo.
Celebration of Life
Sunday, May 24 at 3:00 PM
Poway Valley Riders Association Polo Arena
Please RSVP to 1polonut@polodeoranch.com
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations in Russ’s honor to one of the following:
14325 Midland Road
Poway, CA 92064
Polo Training Foundation
70 Clinton Street
Tully, NY 13159
Justin Cowboy Crisis Fund
101 Pro Rodeo Drive
Colorado Springs, CO 80919
First Annual Russ Sheldon
Memorial Polo Tournament
Monday, May 25
Poway Valley Riders Association Polo Arena
This will be an invitational polo event open to anyone who wishes to attend. A feature match will be played by Russ’s kids, grand kids and family. More details to follow.
Russ’ Polo Achievements Include:
USPA Governor at Large and Delegate, National Arena Committee member and Intercollegiate-Interscholastic Western Regional Committee Chairman and Certified Umpire.
Tournament wins:
• USPA National Arena Amateur Cup Winner – 1990, 1991, 1996, 2001
• Southern California Arena League Winner – 1994, 1995, 1997, 2000, 2002
• 1997 – Umpire of the Year in the Southern California Arena League
• 1997 – USPA Carlton Beal Arena Umpire of the Year
• 2002 – Polo Fellowship Award
• 2003 – Polo Angel award by Randy Russell of Polo America
• 2010 – USPA Hugo Dalmar Trophy for Sportsmanship
“There will never be another Russ Sheldon- the sport of polo will miss him,” remarked Peter Rizzo, USPA CEO and longtime friend of Russ’s.
On behalf of the USPA and the entire polo community, we offer our heartfelt condolences.