Team USA Polo Athlete Agustin Arellano is no stranger to being on the forefront of the sport. The son of world-class polo athlete Julio Arellano, who led Team USA to victory at the 1989 Federation of International Polo World Championships, Agustin’s passion for the sport and ascendance through the ranks started at a young age. Now, at age 26, Agustin himself is a member of Team USA who competed at the 2022 Federation of International Polo World Polo Championship.
For those less familiar with the sport, it may not seem like a high-risk activity. However, sports played on horseback are by nature some of the most dangerous, as a 2016 study found that over 45% of all sport-related Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI’s) came from equestrian-based sports, which is why Arellano is also leading the movement alongside athletes such as Team USA Show Jumper Chloe Reid to make these sports safer by wearing the Q-Collar and encouraging other athletes to follow suit.
Recently, Arellano answered a few quick questions about his passion for polo, his favorite moment of his career, and why he’s started wearing the Q-Collar on the field.
How did you get your start in equestrian?
“I've been immersed in equestrianism from birth, thanks to my family's deep involvement in polo. It's been a natural part of my life for as long as I can remember.”
What has been the biggest moment of your career thus far?
“Winning the silver medal in the World Cup alongside my sister, with my dad coaching us, stands out as the pinnacle of my career thus far.”
How did you discover the Q-Collar and what made you ultimately decide that wearing the Q-Collar was the right decision for you?
“I first encountered the Q-Collar through an ad, but it was seeing fellow polo player Isabelle Wolfe using it that truly piqued my interest. Knowing its potential benefits for brain protection led me to decide it was the right choice for me.”
Why is protecting your brain a focus of yours as you continue your career?
“Brain injuries hit close to home for my family, so safeguarding my brain health while pursuing my passion for polo is a top priority.”
What is something you want younger riders to understand as they develop in this sport?
“To the younger riders, I emphasize the importance of prioritizing safety and ensuring longevity in the sport they love. It's crucial to take care of yourself both on and off the field.”
