On Saturday, Sept. 12, patrons and tailgaters gathered to support two local non-profits: Saddle Up! and the Rochelle Center at the 19th annual Nissan Chukkers for Charity at pristine Riverview Farm in Franklin, Tenn. The event, hosted by Lee Ann and Orrin Ingram, featured world-class polo player, Nic Roldan.
Roldan brought fun and enthusiasm to the weekend.He has become an icon in the exciting world of international, high-goal polo. He’s named one of the highest ranked players in the United States today and is dubbed as one of Vanity Fair’s 10 Hottest Horsemen. Nic’s Gainesway team won the match against opposing team AutoWeek.Nic took time to talk to our Donna Vissman before the event.
The event raised awareness and funds for both the Rochelle Center and Saddle Up! The honorary chairs for this year’s event were Lexie Armstrong and Cathy Brown. Patron Party co-chairs were Mary Kate Brown, Lisa McInturff and Kim Williams who created a theme “Vintage French Circus.” Tarot card readers, acrobats and jugglers were some of the featured entertainers.
The sold-out patron’s tent hosted a dinner for guests following the match which was catered by d.Kates. Hors d’oeuvres included succulent citrus popcorn and roasted nuts, a wide-variety of charcuterie served with a selection of cheeses, jams, nuts, honey, artisan breads and crackers. Dinner featured a mixed baby lettuce salad with fennel, green apples, Kenny’s blue cheese, hazelnuts and blood orange vinaigrette. The main course served up corn-encrusted chicken paillard with peach and green tomato relish and warm cheese soufflé alongside roasted late summer vegetables with hollandaise sauce and delicious dinner rolls. For dessert, patrons enjoyed specialty petits fours, raspberry and pistachio macaroons and chocolate truffles. Drinks were provided by Lipman Brothers and featured a wide-variety of beverages, highlighting Jack Daniel’s products.
The grand prize of the tailgating competition went to the “Wizard of Oz” tailgating team and the most original theme award went to the “Houdini” team. The event also featured a vintage car show and silent auction.
Other sponsors in addition to Nissan were Gainesway Farm, Mary Kate and Josh Brown, Kings’ Chapel Community, The Andrews Agency, Associated Terminals/Turn Services, SilverPointe Properties, YOUR Williamson, Jack Daniel Distillery, Ingram Entertainment, Inc., Nashville Geek, Williamson Source, Jackie and Barry Alexander, Tennessee Equine Hospital, Jones Properties, Limestone Title, Publix Supermarket Charities, Inc. and AshBlue.
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