Louis Devaleix isn’t your typical polo player. He didn’t grow up on a horse farm, groomed from childhood for the sport of kings. Instead, he forged a successful career in the complex world of healthcare IT, co-founding the thriving company, Dazos, in 2018 with David Farache. Yet, a simmering passion for competition and a thirst for new challenges led him down a decidedly different path, one that would take him from the boardroom to the high-stakes arena of high-goal polo.
The Unexpected Turn: Discovering Polo
In 2020, at the age of 39, Devaleix took his first polo lesson at Sunset Polo Club in Loxahatchee, Florida, under the tutelage of Carlos Gonzalez. For many, this might have been a midlife hobby, a weekend diversion. But for Devaleix, it was a revelation. The strategic complexity, the adrenaline rush, the sheer athleticism of the sport captivated him. This wasn’t just a pastime; it was a calling.
Forging La Fe: A Team of Destiny
Driven by his newfound passion, Devaleix didn’t just join a team; he built one. La Fe, named after Robi Bilbao’s family farm in Argentina, quickly became a force to be reckoned with. Partnering with Lucas Escobar, Bilbao, and seasoned pro Francisco Elizalde, Devaleix assembled a squad capable of competing at the highest levels. He wasn’t just the patron, footing the bill; he was a driving force, playing the crucial Number 4 defensive position, anchoring the team’s strategy with the same sharp mind that propelled his success in the tech world.
Victories and Validation: A Meteoric Rise
La Fe’s ascent was swift and impressive. In 2021, they captured the coveted East Coast Open in Greenwich, a victory that announced their arrival on the high-goal scene. That same year, they charged into the Iglehart Cup Final. 2022 saw them competing in the prestigious Argentine Triple Crown and the high-stakes Gauntlet of Polo, squaring off against some of the world’s most formidable players. Their winning streak continued with a victory at the San Jorge Open in September 2024. This rapid success might be attributed to a combination of Devaleix’s strategic leadership, the team’s inherent chemistry, and their shared hunger for victory.
The Balancing Act: Polo, Family, and Business
Devaleix’s life is a complex tapestry woven from the threads of multiple passions. He’s not just a polo player and team patron; he’s a husband and father, navigating the demands of family life alongside his demanding career and sporting pursuits. His wife, Pamela Flanagan, is an accomplished polo player in her own right and the founder of the Rescue Polo Project, a testament to their shared love of the sport and their commitment to giving back. Together, they raise their daughter, Alina Kelley, and Devaleix’s son, Ames, from a previous relationship, demonstrating a remarkable ability to balance the high-octane world of polo with the equally important responsibilities of family.
Mentorship and Inspiration: Learning from the Best
Devaleix’s rapid progress in polo is a testament not only to his natural talent and dedication but also to the influence of key mentors. Learning from the likes of ten-goal legend Hilario Ulloa and the experienced Francisco Elizalde provided him with invaluable insights, honing his skills and shaping his strategic approach. It is likely that these mentors helped Devaleix bridge the gap between novice and high-goal competitor, instilling in him the nuances of the game and the mental fortitude necessary to thrive under pressure. He also draws inspiration from sporting icons like Michael Jordan, suggesting a deep admiration for the pursuit of excellence and the relentless drive to win.
Looking Ahead: The Unfinished Chukka
What does the future hold for Louis Devaleix and La Fe? Their trajectory suggests a continued pursuit of excellence, a commitment to pushing boundaries and achieving new heights. They remain regular contenders in prestigious tournaments, their ambition burning brightly. Each match is an opportunity to further cement their legacy in the world of polo. Devaleix’s story is more than just a sporting tale; it’s a testament to the human capacity to embrace new challenges, to pursue passions regardless of age or background, and to find fulfillment in the most unexpected of journeys. It’s a reminder that the path to success isn’t always linear and that sometimes, the most rewarding detours lead to the most extraordinary destinations. While some might argue that luck may play a role in such unexpected success, it seems more probable that it’s the combination of Devaleix’s personal drive, strategic thinking, and the support of his team and mentors that has propelled him forward. Further research into the dynamics of high-performing teams and the role of mentorship in adult learning could provide a deeper understanding of Devaleix’s remarkable achievements. One question that lingers is how he manages the intricate logistics of balancing his demanding career in healthcare IT with the rigorous travel and training required for high-goal polo. This is an area where future interviews and articles could provide valuable insight, shedding light on the challenges and strategies he employs to maintain this delicate equilibrium.
