OCALA, FL (352today.com) – On Thursday, Jan. 26, 2026, The United Way Marion County and its benefactors brought together philanthropists, equestrian professionals, advocates and civic leaders at HITS Post Time Farm in Ocala for an exclusive party that set the stage for one of the charity’s largest and most unique events of the year.

The purpose of last week’s party was to “pair” beneficiaries and riders for UWMC’s 2nd Annual Children’s Charity Classic equestrian event and fundraiser, to be held at HITS on Friday, Feb. 20, 2026. At the Children’s Charity Classic, professional and amateur hunter-jumpers dress up themselves and their mounts to reflect an element of the event’s theme. This year’s theme is “Board Games,” so in addition to being randomly matched with a beneficiary charity, riders were also matched to a specific game.

Various community leaders drew the names to match beneficiaries, riders and games at the Pairing Party.

Here is the list of beneficiary programs, with their games and equestrian team captains, for the 2nd Annual Children’s Charity Classic:

Courtesy UWMC
Courtesy UWMC
Courtesy UWMC
Courtesy UWMC
Courtesy UWMC
Courtesy UWMC
Courtesy UWMC

While the Pairing Party was invite-only, the public is encouraged to attend the 2nd Annual Children’s Charity Classic at HITS on Friday, Feb. 20.

“The Children’s Charity Classic Team ensures your support directly impacts local children’s causes, making a tangible difference where it’s needed most,” reads UWMC’s online announcement.

“Charities will benefit based on their riders’ performance, ensuring that every jump directly supports programs advancing education, financial stability, and health for children in Marion County,” said the charity in a release regarding the Pairing Party.

Tickets and sponsorship opportunities for the main event are both available through the Children’s Charity Classic website.