OCALA, FL (352today.com) – Kevin Sheilley, President/CEO of the Ocala Metro Chamber and Economic Partnership highlights what’s going on in the Ocala Metro, from his point of view. The latest buzz? The economic impact of HITS Horse Shows.
About HITS Horse Shows
HITS produces three of the richest grand prix in the world with the AIG $1 Million Grand Prix in Thermal, California, Great American $1 Million Grand Prix in Ocala, Florida and Saugerties $400,500 Grand Prix CSI5* in Saugerties, New York.
Economic Impact
HITS comes to the Ocala market every January through March for the Great American $1 Million Grand Prix and makes a BIG impact. HITS released the economic impact on our community based on the most recent 2023 season. Top riders and their horses rode into the heart of the Horse Capital of the World, bringing in an astounding $123 million into our community.
Room Nights and Out of Town Guests
Furthermore, 81% of HITS visitors are from out of market. These visitors helped fill over 21,000 room nights at local hotels, supplying sales tax, hotel tax, and money spent throughout our community.
POV:Ocala is the CEP’s bimonthly video series to keep the Ocala Metro in the know on what’s new and coming to Ocala, hosted by CEP President & CEO, Kevin Sheilley.