Qatar Airways sponsors international Chicago Beach Polo Cup

Qatar Airways was the title sponsor for the inaugural Qatar Airways Chicago Beach Polo Cup, a world-class tournament that brought polo back to Chicago.

During the three-day event, co-ed teams from six countries competed. The Royal Wales Polo Team was crowned as the first Cup champion. Hundreds of fans watched the event at a temporary beach polo arena along North Beach Avenue.

"As a global airline, our passion is to bring the world together," Qatar Airways Vice President for the Americas Günter Saurwein said. "This weekend, we are proud to return this truly international game to the city of Chicago, but polo is more than just a sport. It has become a symbol of matchless dedication, effortless finesse and the pursuit of excellence; values which we share with our guests on every Qatar Airways flight."

Throughout the weekend, the airline hosted VIP guests and team captains at the luxurious Qatar Airways Lounge. the airline also hosted a popular booth where guests could learn more about the airline and enter into a much-anticipated grand prize drawing. Two winners each received round-trip tickets to the destination of their choice from any of the airline's global gateways.

"Growing up in Argentina, I used to hear about the U.S. Polo Open taking place in Chicago," Gustavo Bilbao, Chicago Beach Polo founder and professional player, said. "Polo and Qatar Airways both offer an exceptional and aspirational lifestyle experience. Together, we have brought entertainment and excitement to the city and put Chicago back on the polo map, where it belongs."