OCALA, FL (352today.com) – Ocala is known for its multitude of equine breeds and disciplines, but there’s one lesser-known style of horse racing whose community has its eyes on Dunnellon, Florida.

The sport is called endurance riding, and one of the best athletes in the sport calls our community home.

Jeremy Reynolds finished the 2023 Tevis Cup endurance ride in 15 hours and 14 minutes. Courtesy: Lynne Glazer Imagery

Jeremy Reynolds, owner of Reynolds Racing, rides his Arabian horses 50 to 100 miles in a single day, traversing difficult terrain while trying to finish the course in the shortest amount of time.

“When the terrain is tough, I run up to 25 miles alongside my horse to give her a break,” Jeremy said. “I’m bigger than most high-level competitors, so I know I have to give my horse a longer break.”

Reynolds is also an endurance runner, competing in the Tevis Cup Ride. So, to him, 25 miles is just a warm-up.

This year, Reynolds and his wife, Heather, who is also an endurance racer, traveled to California to compete in the Tevis Cup, one of the most distinguished endurance races in the world.

The 100-mile ride from Soda Springs, California, to Auburn, California, took place on July 29 this year. It traverses the steep and rugged terrain of the Sierra Nevada mountain range.

Riders depart at 5:15 a.m. This year, Reynolds was atop his 13-year-old, bay-colored Arabian mare named Treasured Moments.

When Reynolds crossed the finish line 15 hours and 14 minutes later, he claimed first place – finishing eight minutes ahead of the next closest competitor. For the fifth time, Reynolds brought home the gold.

“Every year is a different challenge, and the tougher the competition, the more rewarding the win,” said Reynolds, “But this year, I rode my favorite horse. She’s so special that I rode the technical part of the course without a bridle. It’s not something you see at the Tevis Cup, but I wanted to add another layer of fun and difficulty to the race.”

Reynolds already holds the record for Haggin Cup wins, an award given to trainers whose horse is in the best shape at the end of the lengthy ride. But now, Reynolds is setting his sights on meeting (and exceeding) the most Tevis Cup wins.

The current record is six. Reynolds says his goal is seven.

“It’s inspiring to be based in Marion County alongside other amazing horsemen in other disciplines. We are so proud to be here,” Reynolds said. “We’re happy to have another equine sport coming to the front lines of the ‘Horse Capital of the World.’”

To learn more about endurance racing or to get involved, check out the American Endurance Ride Conference website.