January Event Wraps Up

Photos: Dave Elle 

Equiventures, LLC’s Ocala Horse Properties Winter I HT Eventing was held on January 5-6, 2013 at the Florida Horse Park, Ocala, FL, with 200 entries of beginner to Olympian status participating and a lively audience reaction.

“The setting on Saturday was perfect! Marc Donovan's show jumping course was very challenging and it really brought out the best in each and every competitor. Having that course coupled with perfect weather made for a great day of sport,” said Jonathan Holling.

Kevin T. Sheilley, formerly of Henderson, KY, first president and CEO of the Ocala-Marion County Chamber Economic Partnership (CEP) greeted competitors, judges, volunteers, vendors and the public at the event on January 5. Sheilley was “very impressed!” and when requested for a three-word description, “ well oiled machine,” he said. “We are pleased to have community partners to foster eventing in Ocala,” event organizer Peter Gray said.

A competitor’s quick glance to a cheering audience brought a hint of a smile.

Jon Holling added, “As competitors we work hard to perfect our craft. One of the goals of this series of shows has been to increase the spectator base. When I looked out across the arena and saw the grandstands full of people I felt a sense of pride for our sport. It is such a challenge to train an event horse and to have people come out to watch these amazing animals compete is a thrill in itself!”

The Thoroughbred Incentive Program awards are now being offered at the Ocala Horse Properties horse trials. Each event in 2013 will offer awards to the best placed thoroughbred in each division. Series awards with ribbons, prizes and money will be given to the horses who have earned the most points throughout all three 2013 horse trials being held at the Florida Horse Park. Full details are available at The Jockey Club's website http://tjctip.com.

The next event: Ocala Horse Properties Winter II HT Eventing will be at the Florida Horse Park, 11008 S Hwy 475, Ocala, FL 34480 on Feb 08-10, 2013. “We are expecting over 500 entries,” said Equiventures, LLC event organizer, Peter Gray, “And we welcome tours at this event.” The tentative schedule is Thurs: Cross-country course open-3:00 pm; Fri: OI & OP - one day - Dressage, Show Jumping, Cross-country; Sat - Sun: Training/Novice/BN will run over 2 days. Dressage will be on Saturday.

Ocala’s Hilton is Equiventures, LLC’s hotel of choice for the eventing. Reservations: www.hiltonocala.com or (352) 854-1400. Equiventures room discount is available until the close of entries; this rate is available for competitors, visitors, vendors and anyone involved with/for the event. A special demo event is being planned for February 8 at the Hilton poolside.

For more information: Peter Gray, Equiventures LLC, event organizer, 12345 NW 110 Ave, Reddick, Fl 32686 352-425-6302 This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Share this: