Deep in the heart of North Texas lies a hidden gem that caters to the elite world of equestrian sports: Mayer Ranch. While many might not be aware, the Southern Methodist University (SMU) boasts a formidable polo team, and its premier practice and competition facility is none other than this magnificent property nestled in Cross Roads, Texas. Now, a rare opportunity has emerged for discerning buyers as Mayer Ranch, the esteemed home of the Mustangs’ polo ponies and an unrivaled equestrian estate, has officially entered the market. This isn’t just a sale; it’s a chance to own a piece of polo history and a modern marvel of equine excellence in one of the fastest-growing regions of the United States.
The marketing of this exceptional property is being expertly handled by two prominent figures in luxury real estate: David Burgher and his co-listing agent Harlan Ray, both representing Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty. Their extensive experience in high-value land and ranch sales ensures that Mayer Ranch receives the distinguished attention it deserves. From every angle, this sprawling estate unequivocally presents itself as an equestrian paradise, meticulously designed and maintained to uphold the highest standards of the sport.
The Enduring Legacy: The Origin of Mayer Ranch Polo
The journey of Mayer Ranch as a polo powerhouse is intrinsically linked to the vision and dedication of Ken Mayer. Though he cultivated his horsemanship on a historic family ranch outside San Angelo, a property with roots tracing back to the mid-1800s, it was Ken Mayer who would significantly contribute to fostering a thriving and recognized polo program at SMU. His deep-seated connection to the land and the equestrian world laid the groundwork for what Mayer Ranch would ultimately become.
Mayer’s introduction to the exhilarating sport of polo came through his father-in-law, a seasoned player who actively participated in high-goal polo alongside the legendary Norman Brinker. This exposure ignited a profound passion in Mayer, leading him to fall irrevocably in love with the game. In 2016, driven by this newfound devotion and a desire to contribute to the sport, he acquired the sprawling 111-acre ranch in Cross Roads, Texas. This property was already steeped in equestrian history, having previously served as the renowned Lobo Polo & Cattle Ranch, a name that resonates with the heritage of polo in the region.
“It was purchased by William Steding in 1989, where ‘Bill’ transformed it into a full polo facility and built his house on the property,” David Burgher revealed to daltxrealestate.com. During that era, the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area was a hotbed for polo enthusiasts. Spectators would flock to what is now Willow Bend Mall in Plano, captivated by the high-goal polo matches spearheaded by Brinker. William Steding, a passionate patron of the sport, was a key player in this vibrant scene, contributing significantly to the local polo community.
“Most of the polo players had polo fields and farms in the Cross Roads and Oak Point area where the horses were kept, bred, and trained. Bill Steding was one of them,” Burgher elaborated. “Steding’s foresight led to the construction of a comprehensive facility, which included an 11-stall barn, five small shaded turnouts, a dedicated hay barn, and a tractor/equipment parking area. Crucially, the property also boasted one of the finest polo fields in the entire region, a testament to his commitment to the sport.” This rich history underscores the property’s enduring legacy as a premier polo destination.
Although the Willow Bend polo facility eventually closed its doors in the 1990s, the spirit of polo continued to thrive in the Dallas area. Its heartbeat simply shifted, finding new life and vigor through the various private fields scattered across the picturesque landscapes of Cross Roads and Oak Point. These communities became the unofficial epicenters for the sport, preserving its traditions and nurturing its growth. Ken Mayer himself, long before owning the ranch, vividly recalls playing a memorable match on Bill Steding’s very field in 1993, a full two decades before he would become its steward. This personal connection further deepens the significance of Mayer Ranch.
As an esteemed alumnus of SMU, Ken Mayer held a deep affinity for his alma mater. This connection grew even stronger when his son developed a keen interest in following in his father’s footsteps on the polo field. Witnessing his son’s budding passion, Ken Mayer saw an opportunity to not only support his family’s legacy but also to significantly contribute to the collegiate polo scene. “He wanted to help the program and built a facility for the team to practice and play,” said Burgher, highlighting Mayer’s philanthropic spirit and commitment to the sport’s future. The fruits of his labor are evident today, as his son, now a senior at SMU, proudly serves as the captain of the university’s polo team. “I can only imagine how proud he is to see how his hard work paid off like this and see his son carrying on the family tradition with polo and SMU,” Burgher added, painting a vivid picture of a profound father-son legacy woven into the fabric of Mayer Ranch.
North Texas’ Premier Polo Fields: A Masterpiece of Equestrian Infrastructure
Over the past seven years, Ken Mayer, who also serves as the esteemed president of the DFW Polo Association, has meticulously transformed this ranch into an unparalleled equestrian facility, solidifying its reputation as one of the premier polo destinations in North Texas. This achievement, as Burgher points out, is no small feat, requiring immense dedication, expertise, and resources in the challenging Texas climate. Mayer’s leadership in the polo community, combined with his hands-on approach to developing the ranch, has created a truly exceptional environment for the sport.
The cornerstone of any top-tier polo facility is its field, and Mayer Ranch boasts one of the best. “A polo field is a vast expanse, measuring approximately 10 acres – 160 yards by 320 yards – and to keep it alive in the relentless Texas heat and vibrant green amidst our frequent droughts is an incredibly challenging endeavor,” Burgher emphasized. This requires sophisticated irrigation systems, specialized turf management techniques, and constant care, a testament to the uncompromising standards maintained at Mayer Ranch. Beyond the immaculate playing surface, the sheer scope of the property is what truly sets it apart.
“But to have 111 acres featuring not just this incredible field, but also a state-of-the-art covered arena, a staggering 57 stalls designed for ultimate equine comfort, and acres upon acres of meticulously maintained turn-out pastures, alongside luxuries like a private helicopter pad and a spacious hanger – all complemented by a truly beautiful main residence – is extraordinary,” Burgher articulated with enthusiasm. He further highlighted the property’s strategic and increasingly valuable location: “And to find all of this in the midst of the explosively growing North Dallas area, mere minutes from the vibrant Frisco Star development and the sophisticated Legacy West in Plano, and only a convenient 45-minute drive from the bustling downtowns of Dallas and Fort Worth, makes Mayer Ranch truly one of a kind. It’s an oasis of tranquility and sporting excellence perfectly positioned within a dynamic economic hub.”
Situated at the distinguished address of 3800 Historic Lane, the ranch holds an added layer of historical significance, lying directly adjacent to the oldest known pre-Civil War pottery kiln in Denton County. Over the years, Ken Mayer meticulously modernized and expanded the ranch, transforming it into a versatile equestrian haven. His enhancements included the construction of an expansive indoor arena, a critical addition that allows for year-round training and competition regardless of weather conditions. He also added multiple new barns, significantly increasing the number of available stalls and expanding the turn-out areas, ensuring ample space and comfort for a large number of horses. Demonstrating its versatility and appeal to a broader equestrian community, Mayer also thoughtfully incorporated accommodations specifically designed to cater to hunter/jumper equestrians, making it a multi-disciplinary hub.
The Mayer Ranch Polo facilities are not merely for show; they are a hive of activity, extensively utilized every spring and fall, buzzing with the energy of horses and riders. “MRP is the proud home of the SMU Polo Club, a testament to its top-tier status. The club leverages the indoor facilities six days per week throughout the academic semesters, providing its athletes with consistent, high-quality training,” Burgher explained. The ranch’s reputation as a premier venue extends even further, as the U.S. Polo Association (USPA) has frequently chosen its indoor facility for a variety of prestigious Interscholastic and Intercollegiate polo competitions. In 2023, Mayer Ranch proudly hosted the highly anticipated College Regional Polo Championships for Division II, showcasing its capacity to manage high-level events. Furthermore, the USPA has again selected Mayer Ranch to host these pivotal championships in 2024, cementing its status as a vital cornerstone of collegiate and amateur polo in the United States.
Mayer Ranch’s Main House: A Symphony of Luxury and Ranch Elegance
It stands to reason that an equestrian facility of such immense scale and distinction would be complemented by a residence of equally impressive caliber. Mayer Ranch delivers emphatically in this regard. The main house on the property is a magnificent testament to luxury living blended seamlessly with ranch elegance. Spanning an expansive 6,000 square feet, this architectural marvel features five generously sized bedrooms and six and a half meticulously appointed bathrooms, offering ample space and privacy for residents and guests alike. The interiors exude a gorgeous aesthetic, thoughtfully designed with a sophisticated yet welcoming ambiance.
Constructed with a charming cottage-style aesthetic, the home boasts an enchanting curb appeal. It is gracefully positioned at the culmination of a beautifully paved driveway, which itself offers a picturesque journey through the manicured grounds, creating a sense of arrival that is both grand and inviting. The exterior blends traditional charm with refined details, hinting at the exquisite craftsmanship found within.
Stepping inside, one is immediately greeted by a lovely living room, a space designed for both grand entertaining and intimate relaxation. Its focal point is a stunning floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace, which not only provides warmth and comfort but also serves as a majestic architectural feature, anchoring the room with natural elegance. The gourmet kitchen is a chef’s dream and a hub for social gatherings, built specifically for entertaining. It features an oversized eat-in island, offering abundant counter space and casual seating, perfectly complemented by a suite of top-of-the-line stainless steel appliances. These professional-grade fixtures ensure that culinary endeavors are both effortless and enjoyable, whether preparing a simple meal or hosting a lavish dinner party.
Thoughtful design permeates every corner of the residence. Each room has been strategically positioned to offer either breathtaking views of the sprawling ranch property or charming sightlines into the meticulously designed central courtyard. This seamless integration of indoor and outdoor living creates a serene atmosphere, allowing residents to feel perpetually connected to their idyllic surroundings. The courtyard itself is a private sanctuary, featuring a sparkling rectangular swimming pool, ideal for refreshing dips on warm Texas days or leisurely relaxation by the water’s edge. This outdoor oasis provides a perfect retreat for unwinding after a day on the polo field or entertaining guests in a picturesque setting.
Adding to the comprehensive nature of Mayer Ranch, the property also includes a sophisticated, glass-enclosed 1,600-square-foot office space. This dedicated area provides a quiet and inspiring environment for managing personal affairs, conducting business, or simply enjoying a tranquil workspace with abundant natural light. Furthermore, to ensure the seamless operation and maintenance of such a vast estate, additional housing and accommodations are thoughtfully provided for staff, underscoring the ranch’s capacity for a fully supported and luxurious lifestyle. Mayer Ranch truly offers a unique blend of world-class equestrian facilities and an exquisitely appointed private residence, creating an unparalleled living experience for the discerning owner.
This legendary Mayer Ranch Polo facility, located at 3800 Historic Lane in Cross Roads, Texas, is presented to the market as an extraordinary opportunity. Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty’s David Burgher and co-listing agent Harlan Ray are honored to market this unparalleled estate, which is currently offered for $20 million. It represents not just a property, but a legacy, a lifestyle, and a significant investment in the vibrant heart of North Texas equestrian excellence.