At 52, most athletes have long retired, content to reminisce about past glories to grandchildren and friends. But for former Deputy Speaker and sports patron Mikee Romero, life is anything but past tense.
A Philippine Air Force reservist, Romero still craves the adrenaline of competition. Under the scorching sun, he finds himself back on the field, taking on some of the world’s best polo players—and thriving.
Life begins at 50, they say.
For Romero, it wasn’t just a cliché—it was a challenge. The desire to push his limits propelled him up the world polo rankings, proving that age is no barrier to excellence.
His journey to the top began in the prestigious Gauntlet of Polo series in Wellington, Florida, last year.
It was a breakthrough season: Romero guided GlobalPort-Passion For Polo to a semifinal finish in the C.V. Whitney Cup, a runner-up showing in the USPA Bronze Cup, and a quarterfinal appearance in the U.S. Open Polo Championship—the crown jewel of American polo.
“It is unheard of and unbelievable to become a world-class athlete at this stage of life,” Romero admitted.
“Especially in such a physically demanding sport.”
Demanding indeed. Polo is often likened to driving a Formula 1 car on horseback—requiring elite conditioning, balance, endurance, and razor-sharp focus. One mistake can lead to serious injury.
Romero’s perseverance paid off. He became the first Filipino to break into the Top 25 of the World Polo Tour amateur rankings and remains the highest-ranked Southeast Asian player. His rise has not only elevated his own standing but also put Philippine polo firmly on the global map.
In recognition, the Philippine Sportswriters Association honored him with a special citation at its annual Awards Night at the Diamond Hotel.
Romero’s journey proves that excellence isn’t constrained by age. He didn’t set out to defy time—he simply refused to be defined by it. With his PSA award in hand, the “Sport of Kings” may yet see another historic first from this relentless trailblazer.
