Ben Baugh

Ben Baugh is a journalist who has worked across a variety of platforms during his career. A graduate of Ashland University in Ashland, Ohio, he has covered a variety of topics, including politics, public safety, education, religion, entertainment, equestrian sport and sports. Baugh has worked in Ohio, New York, South Carolina and Florida. A resident of Belleview, he can often be found at an equestrian sport venue on his days off. You can reach Ben Baugh at benbaugh@352today.com

HD Rapids Percherons, owned and operated by the Deer Family of Kahnawake Mohawk Territory, driven by Justin Hille.
Entertainment
1 year ago
Majestic draft horses compete at Grandview Invitational in Florida Horse Park

Experience the power and grace of Percheron draft horses as top competitors gather for an exciting weekend of competition, tradition, and horsepower at the Grandview Invitational.

Local
1 year ago
New Ocala parking garage to add 800 spaces and enhance downtown accessibility

Parking Garage No. 2 will feature modern design, security enhancements, and a memorial space for Mt. Moriah Baptist Church.

Front of The Equestrian Hotel at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, decorated for Christmas.
Business
1 year ago
World Equestrian Center drives Ocala land boom: Property values surge over 325%

A new report reveals how the WEC Effect has skyrocketed vacant land prices in Marion County, solidifying Ocala’s reputation as the Horse Capital of the World.

Lauren Proctor-Brown (white sleeves) and Laura Willson (green jersey) attempt to ride each other off in a game at the Ocala Polo Club at the Florida Horse Park on June 1, 2024. Courtesy: Ben Baugh/352today
Local
1 year ago
Florida Horse Park stands as Central Florida’s premier equestrian and event destination

The Florida Horse Park has grown into a vital community asset with 130 annual events, major facility upgrades, and a key role in emergency response efforts.

Gilberto Martinez stands with Last Leaf at Barn 12 at the OBS Sales Pavilion on Jan. 28, 2025. The 6-year-old mare was the sales topper, bringing $140,000.
Equine
1 year ago
Last Leaf tops 2025 Ocala Breeders Sales winter mixed sale with $140,000 sale price

Five-time stakes winner, Last Leaf, leads the auction as sales reach over $3.1 million; top horses include yearlings and racing prospects.

Local
1 year ago
Ocala’s Sirius named 2025 Farm Bureau Dog of the Year at AFBF convention

Maremma sheepdog Sirius wins prestigious honor for his work as a farm guard dog and his special bond with therapy horses.

The Firemen and rider Kaci O'Rourke make history at the NRHA Futurity Finals in the Jim Norick Arena, earning a $420,000 victory.
Equine
1 year ago
The Firemen makes history: Winning NRHA Futurity Finals and $420,000 prize

Peter and Courtney Morgan’s champion reining horse, The Firemen, secures a groundbreaking victory with rider Kaci O’Rourke, the first woman to win the Level 4 Open Division.

Equine
1 year ago
Ocala connections shine at 2024 Eclipse Awards: Sierra Leone, Straight No Chaser, and Citizen Bull dominate

Sierra Leone, Straight No Chaser, and Citizen Bull underscore Ocala’s impact at the Eclipse Awards and beyond.

Equine
1 year ago
Thorpedo Anna makes Eclipse Awards history, matching Rachel Alexandra as 3-year-old filly Horse of the Year

Sierra Leone, Straight No Chaser, and Citizen Bull highlight Ocala’s dominance at the 54th Eclipse Awards

Community
1 year ago
Zoning change paves way for transitional recovery facility for women

Compassion United Methodist Church campus to host 14-bed facility providing counseling, job placement, and financial stability for women in need.

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