OCALA, FL (352today.com) – Lessons were well-learned at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry as Team Harry Potter used their magic to claim victory at the United Way of Marion County‘s Children’s Charity Classic Grand Prix. With their win, they presented their charity, Arnette House, with a $30,000 check on Feb. 21 at HITS Post Time Farm.
The show jumping competition featured 10 teams, each composed of a professional, an amateur, and a children’s rider. The teams, representing 10 local charities, adopted themes inspired by beloved children’s books. HCA Florida Ocala Hospital served as the Grand Prix society sponsor
“First of all, being the Horse Capital of the World, it’s great that we have an event that represents the horse community,” said City of Ocala Mayor Ben Marciano. “I hope the charities they chose supporting kids, I think it’s great. It’s a great thing. I’m excited to see the horse community get involved and support the event. I’m excited to be here tonight.”
Spectators enjoyed not only the whimsical theme of the event but also the opportunity to watch top-tier riders and horses in a joyful, competitive atmosphere. Team Harry Potter’s victory secured the grand prize for Arnette House, while Strong Families finished as reserve champion, earning a $15,000 check. The Pearl Project placed third, receiving $10,000 for their charity.
“We’re raising money for 10 very worthy charities,” said Alan Keesee, HCA Florida Ocala Hospital chief executive officer. “It’s exciting to bring the community together. We love our kids and our community. We’re hopefully going to raise $100,000 to give to 10 charities tonight, bringing the equestrian community together with the Ocala family community while trying to raise resources for our kids.”
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Adina Gesthalter, the junior rider for the Community Partnership Schools team, Pippi Longstocking, embraced the spirit of the event. She portrayed Tommy, while her horse, Douglas, took on the role of Captain Longstocking.
“My trainer (Morgan Ward, who was portraying Annika Settergren) mentioned the charity challenge, and I’ve always wanted to do the one in Wellington,” said Gesthalter. “I think it’s great that we’re raising money for children and different charities. My horse is so game for anything. He’s 10 and the fastest horse ever. He turns on a dime and is up for whatever I want to do with him.”
Many professionals saw the event as a meaningful opportunity to give back while enjoying a spirited competition.
“It’s for a great cause, and it’s worth our effort, trouble, time, and devotion to our sport to support this cause. It’s such a great charity, and we’re excited to help out,” said Mike McCormick of MTM Farm in Ocala. “(MTM) Bubba was second in a speed class this morning, and S&L Cesam won the 1.30-meter class. It’s really fun to see everyone come out, be good sports, and make the effort for this charity. It’s amazing.”
While professionals typically compete at the highest levels, the Children’s Charity Classic offered them a rare opportunity to participate in a fun, lighthearted event that engaged spectators and allowed amateur and junior riders to shine.
“We were supposed to be doing Charlotte’s Web for charity, but this kind of turned into more of a Catwoman, black-on-black theme, so we’re just going with it,” said Dorothy Douglas, a professional riding for Episcopal Children’s Services. “I work for MTM Farm. It was a blast, so much fun. Whenever you get girls, horses, and costumes together, we’re going to have a good time.”
The event successfully brought together the equestrian and local communities, uniting them in support of a worthy cause while celebrating the sport and its riders.