After two weeks of delays due to heavy rain, the 60th Jockey Club Open finally reached its conclusion on Wednesday, October 2, in San Isidro, Buenos Aires. For many, this tournament is more than a trophy — it’s the traditional warm-up before the Triple Crown, where players test horses, refine strategies, and prepare for the most demanding stretch of the Argentine polo season.
In 2025, the spotlight fell once again on Camilo “Jeta” Castagnola and Bartolomé “Barto” Castagnola, who, alongside Facundo Pieres and patron Curtis Pilot, brought the Pilot team to glory.
A Dominant Start
The final saw Pilot face Scone, a team that had lifted the trophy in 2022 and 2023. From the first throw-in, Pilot looked unstoppable. Facundo Pieres opened the score, quickly followed by a dazzling hat-trick from Jeta Castagnola. By the end of the first chukker, Pilot led 4–0, and the momentum only grew as they extended the lead to 6–0 in the second.
Scone’s Response
But polo finals are never over until the last bell. Scone, with Mia Cambiaso, Félix Esain, Tomás Panelo, and substitute Benjamín Panelo (replacing Poroto Cambiaso), clawed their way back into the game. By the fifth chukker, they had cut the deficit to just two goals (9–7), thanks largely to the sharp play of Benjamín Panelo, who scored five times in the match.
Despite the pressure, Pilot held firm. With composure and teamwork, they closed out the game 13–10 to claim their second Jockey Club Open title.
Castagnola Highlights
The Castagnola brothers once again proved why they are among the best in the world. Jeta Castagnola was named MVP, scoring five goals and showcasing the blend of speed and intelligence that defines his game. His mare Yummy also took the BPP Elabpro award.
Barto Castagnola contributed both on the scoreboard and with his signature control in the midfield. His horse Dolfina Melodía Simple won the Best Playing Pony award presented by the Jockey Club, underscoring the Castagnolas’ continued tradition of excellence in horse breeding and management.
For Curtis Pilot, it was his second Jockey Club Open title; for Barto, his fourth; and for Jeta, his third. With Facundo Pieres adding his fourth as well, Pilot’s roster combined experience and rising star power to deliver a memorable performance.
Why the Jockey Club Open Matters
As one of Argentina’s oldest and most prestigious tournaments, the Jockey Club Open is often seen as a proving ground. Before the bright lights of Hurlingham, Tortugas, and Palermo, this is where players test their strings, try different combinations, and refine strategies. Winning here is not only about the title — it’s about sending a message: we’re ready for the Triple Crown.
Looking Ahead
For Jeta and Barto Castagnola, this victory adds to an already impressive season. With their focus now shifting to La Natividad La Dolfina in the Triple Crown, fans can expect more excitement as the brothers carry their winning momentum into the 132nd Hurlingham Open and beyond.
Be Part of the Season
Celebrate the Castagnola brothers’ journey with the official La Natividad La Dolfina 2025 Team Shirt, now available for preorder. Wear the same jersey that Jeta and Barto will take into the Triple Crown, and carry the spirit of the team wherever you go.
Preorder the official team shirt now
