I live in Ocala Florida. This place has been named "the Horse Capital of the World." I often wonder what Lexington, KY thinks about that?!
Anyways, there are lots and lots of horse farms and lots and lots of horses here! The largest equestrian population here is the racing industry so; there are lots and lots of thoroughbreds here! Ok, so enough with the lots and lots!
We do have a good draw for the competitive driving fans. There is a competition called, "Live Oak," every year here in March; typically the last weekend. It is called Live Oak because that's the name of the farm where the competition is held. The farm is owned by Charlotte Weber, her son is Chester Weber, very talented international combined driving competitor.
Then, every year around November through March, we have the equestrian snow birds! The Hunter/Jumper fans decent upon NW Ocala by the droves! Truthfully, I feel the impact every year because I live two miles from their show grounds.
The name of this huge competition is called, H.I.T.S = Horse Shows In the Sun. The grocery store close to me may be packed but, they have lent a huge boost to our economy here. Thanks HITS for coming to Ocala by the droves, you guys are great!
I have to add this because I don't want to leave out our favorite como cozy riders!!! We have many event riders transcend on Ocala in the winter too. We're fortunate enough to have Olympic medalists, David and Karen Oconnor! And many other top riders in that field; really too many to name!
So, thinking about coming to Ocala for the winter!
Hmmm, maybe we really have earned the right to claim the title, "horse capital of the World!"
