Pilot and Camilo Castagnola reach the USPA Gold Cup Final
The USPA Gold Cup continues to define the rhythm of the high goal season in Wellington, and this year’s final brings together two strong organisations competing at the highest level. After a competitive semifinal, Pilot secured its place in the final with a 13–11 win over Dutta Corp, confirming its position as one of the most consistent teams of the tournament.
With this result, Pilot moves into Sunday’s final, where they will face La Dolfina Scone in what promises to be one of the most anticipated matches of the Palm Beach season.
A decisive semifinal
The semifinal against Dutta Corp was a balanced and demanding match. Both teams maintained intensity throughout, with momentum shifting across chukkers. Pilot managed to build and hold a narrow advantage, closing the game at 13–11.
Matches at this stage of the tournament are rarely defined by a single moment. Instead, they reflect consistency, decision-making and the ability to manage pressure over time. Pilot showed control in key phases of the game, converting opportunities and maintaining structure when it mattered most.
Camilo Castagnola leading Pilot
At the centre of Pilot’s performance is Camilo “Jeta” Castagnola, whose role within the team continues to be decisive. His ability to read the game, adapt to different phases of play and maintain composure under pressure has been a key factor throughout the tournament.
In high goal polo, individual talent is always supported by team structure, and Pilot’s progression reflects that balance. Castagnola’s presence brings both precision and rhythm, allowing the team to stay connected and effective across all six chukkers.
The Pilot lineup
Pilot enters the final with a well-structured lineup combining experience and adaptability:
Curtis Pilot
McKenzie Weisz
Camilo Castagnola
Lorenzo Chavanne
Each player contributes a specific role, creating a team dynamic that has proven effective throughout the competition. From organisation in the back to attacking precision, the balance within the lineup has been one of Pilot’s strengths.
The final ahead
The final, scheduled for Sunday 29th, will see Pilot face La Dolfina Scone, another team with strong structure and experience in high goal polo. At this level, finals are not only about execution but also about managing rhythm, horses and key moments under pressure.
Palm Beach continues to provide a setting where the world’s best players meet early in the year, setting the tone for the international season. The USPA Gold Cup, as one of the most important tournaments in the United States, offers a clear measure of form and preparation.
Wellington and the international circuit
The Wellington season remains a central part of the global polo calendar. It brings together players, teams and organisations that will later compete across England, France and Argentina. Performances here often carry through the rest of the year, making each tournament significant beyond its immediate result.
For Camilo Castagnola, reaching the final with Pilot reinforces his position within the international circuit, continuing the momentum built across recent seasons.
A final that defines the moment
Sunday’s match will not only determine the winner of the USPA Gold Cup but also highlight the level of competition present in Wellington this season. With two strong teams and balanced lineups, the final reflects the depth and quality of modern high goal polo.
As the tournament reaches its conclusion, the focus shifts to execution, consistency and the ability to perform when it matters most.
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