OCALA, FL (352today.com) – The world’s best equestrians will once again showcase their talent in Ocala at the World Equestrian Center.
The Longines Fédération Equestre Internationale Jumping World Cup™ Qualifier, part of the WEC Ocala Winter Spectacular VII CSI 5-W*, takes place Feb. 11-16, bringing elite-level competition to the Horse Capital of the World. This premier event offers a world-class stage for competitors while also providing an unparalleled experience for spectators, adding to the prestige and excitement synonymous with the World Equestrian Center.
“I think this builds on what we committed to last year, the Longines League of Nations™ that we hosted for the first time in March 2024, and adding a World Cup Qualifier further showcases what a tremendous facility this is for world-class competition,” said Leah Tong, World Equestrian Center director of marketing and brand. “We had tremendous feedback from all of our international competitors. Everyone that came to spectate in our local community on what an amazing opportunity it is, but also how exciting it is to welcome here to Ocala.”
The World Cup Qualifier also sets the stage for the highly anticipated Longines League of Nations™, taking place March 18-23, as the World Equestrian Center builds on this momentum in the coming weeks.
“It’s two opportunities back-to-back to see the best athletes in the world competing at the highest levels of the sport,” Tong added.
Beyond the competition, the All for the Horses Expo, taking place Feb. 15-16, will provide the community with a unique shopping and educational experience, featuring more than 100 vendors specializing in equine products and services.
The All for the Horses Expo, presented by Ariat International, Inc., will be held at Exposition Center 1 on Feb. 15 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Feb. 16 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the World Equestrian Center.
“It’s really anything if you’re looking for tack or if you’re looking for apparel, and all of the pieces that support that,” said Tong. “We have some good art vendors as well for shopping opportunities, and then there’s also some educational components. Both on Saturday and Sunday, there’s going to be some nutrition seminars from some of our equine nutrition specialists. We have the Horse Talk Show with Louisa Barton—she’ll be out here giving some talks on Sunday.
“I especially want to highlight on Sunday, we’ll have Evie and Phillip Dutton. Phillip is one of the top eventing athletes for the U.S., and his wife Evie—they have an amazing business, and they’re going to be talking about being an equestrian family with all of the demands that go into competing at the highest levels.”
With world-class competition, premier shopping, and exclusive educational opportunities, Ocala’s World Equestrian Center continues to solidify its reputation as a top-tier destination for equestrian sports.