La Natividad La Dolfina Takes the Tortugas Open After a Nail-Biting 12-11 Win
The second chapter of Argentina’s Triple Crown delivered a match to remember. Under a warm October sky, La Natividad La Dolfina claimed victory in the 85º Abierto de Tortugas Gran Premio Macro, defeating Ellerstina Indios Chapaleufú 12-11 in a dramatic and fast-paced final. It was a game that had everything — precision, pressure, and pure polo at its highest level.
After their solid run through Hurlingham, the Cañuelas team arrived in Tortugas with confidence but also a clear understanding that every opponent would bring their best. Ellerstina Indios Chapaleufú, one of the most consistent organizations in the country, made them work for every goal. The result was an intense final where momentum shifted repeatedly, keeping the crowd at the edge of their seats until the last chukker.
A Battle Defined by Details
The match began at high tempo, with Ellerstina striking first and La Natividad La Dolfina responding quickly through Camilo “Jeta” Castagnola’s trademark speed and precision. Each chukker was evenly contested, but it was in the fourth and fifth where the team led by coach Lolo Castagnola began to find rhythm.
The connection between Barto Castagnola and Poroto Cambiaso provided balance — Barto organizing the back, Poroto adding pressure up front. Adolfo Cambiaso, calm and composed, set the pace from behind, while Jeta Castagnola once again proved decisive, scoring key goals that would later define the outcome.
By the sixth chukker, the scoreboard showed a narrow lead for La Natividad La Dolfina. But Ellerstina Indios Chapaleufú refused to give up, closing the gap in the seventh with strong plays from Facundo Pieres and Cruz Heguy. It wasn’t until the very end — with just seconds left on the clock — that La Natividad La Dolfina managed to hold their one-goal advantage, sealing the 12-11 win.
What Makes This Win Important
Beyond the trophy, this victory carries significant meaning. It confirms the strength of this new alliance between La Natividad and La Dolfina, uniting two of the sport’s most influential families — the Castagnolas and the Cambiasos.
For Lolo Castagnola, it marks another successful chapter in his career as both mentor and strategist. His vision, honed over decades in Argentine polo, has been key in integrating the different playing styles and personalities of this 40-goal team.
For the players, it’s another step toward something even bigger — the chance to finish the Triple Crown undefeated. With two titles secured (Hurlingham and Tortugas), the path now leads to Palermo, where history could be made if they lift the third and final trophy.
From Tradition to Teamwork
The strength of La Natividad La Dolfina lies not only in its line-up but in its identity. The Castagnola brothers bring energy, intuition, and youth; the Cambiasos contribute experience, calm, and world-class precision. Together, they’ve found a balance that feels both powerful and natural — the perfect mix of tradition and evolution.
The Tortugas Open title is not just another win; it’s proof of what happens when legacy and innovation meet. It shows a team that adapts, learns, and pushes forward, embodying what Argentine polo represents at its best.
Looking Ahead
Now, all eyes turn to Palermo. The Abierto Argentino de Polo begins in just a few weeks, and La Natividad La Dolfina enters as the team to beat. The goal is clear — to complete the Triple Crown and close 2025 as an undefeated champion team.
For the fans, the message is simple: enjoy every game, every chukker, and every play of this historic season.
Order the Official La Natividad La Dolfina 2025 Team Jersey and wear the victory with pride.
