OCALA, FL (352today.com) – If you’ve ever wanted to become immersed in the equine industry and all things horses, you’ll have the opportunity Nov. 22nd and Nov. 23rd at the Florida Horse Park.
The Equine Industry Career Expo and Hobby Horse Equestrian Games, presented by the Equine Initiative, an engagement program of the Ocala Metro Chamber and Economic Partnership, will be held under the covered Rugged Lark Arena at the Florida Horse Park.
Admission to the event is free. The event will feature over 40 vendors, food trucks, and a kids’ zone on both Friday and Saturday. Additionally, an all-breed exhibition will be held at the horse park on Nov. 22nd and 23rd.
Marion County Public Schools has approved an excused absence for students wishing to attend the expo on Nov. 22nd, provided the necessary paperwork is completed, according to Louisa Barton, Ocala Metro CEP director of equine initiative.
The Equine Career Expo, taking place on Nov. 22nd from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., will offer attendees a unique opportunity to learn about the industry through a series of presentations by renowned professionals from the equestrian world.
The Horse Capital All-Breed Parade will take place on Nov. 23rd at 10 a.m. This will be followed by the Hobby Horse Equestrian Games, where the top six finishers in each of the six classes will be awarded ribbons. The awards presentation will conclude the day at 3:30 p.m. Saturday’s events kick off at 10 a.m., and the weekend will wrap up on Nov. 23rd at 4 p.m.
There were 750 competitors in last year’s Hobby Horse Equestrian Games.
The presentations will provide valuable insights into the various job opportunities within the equine industry, highlight Marion County’s extensive equestrian resources, showcase the diverse range of horse breeds in the area, and emphasize the significant economic impact of the horse industry on Florida, particularly in the Ocala area.