Kathleen Carrara and her 12-year-old Irish Sport Horse, Allu Jewel, compete in the Ocala I Winter Horse Trials at the Florida Horse Park on Feb. 8, 2025. The event, held Feb. 6-9, featured three phases of competition, including dressage, cross-country, and stadium jumping.
Equine
8 months ago
From spectator to competitor: Kathleen Carrara embraces eventing at Florida Horse Park

Former marathon runner and triathlete takes on the challenge of three-day eventing in Ocala, forming a strong bond with her Irish Sport Horse.

Dorrie Douglas, an Ocala-based rider, has been a fixture at the World Equestrian Center and HITS, competing at the upper levels in both show jumping and show hunters. She is pictured in front of the MTM barn at HITS Post Time Farm on Feb. 6, 2025.
Equine
8 months ago
Dorrie Douglas: from passionate young rider to elite hunter/jumper competitor in Ocala

How a lifelong dedication to horses and a fateful opportunity led Dorrie Douglas to the top of the equestrian world.

Equine
8 months ago
World Equestrian Center in Ocala hosts Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ Qualifier and All for the Horses Expo

Elite equestrians compete in Ocala from Feb. 11-16, with top riders preparing for the Longines League of Nations™ in March; All for the Horses Expo offers shopping and educational events Feb. 15-16.

Ocala-based rider Josh Dolan with Something Blue and manager Brandi Cariss, showcasing their strong partnership in the equestrian world.
Equine
8 months ago
Josh Dolan’s journey: From childhood fascination to equestrian success

Born in Hilton Head, Josh Dolan’s love for horses started early and led him to train with top equestrians, ultimately turning his passion into a professional career.

Guests celebrate in style at the World of Red Party, an elegant evening of fashion, entertainment, and philanthropy.
Entertainment
8 months ago
Grandview World Nights to host prestigious Draft Horse World Series & World of Red Party

Experience the power and elegance of Clydesdales, Belgians, and Percherons at the Draft Horse World Series, featuring elite competitions and an exclusive Grandview World of Red Party at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala.

Ocala-based Amanda Steege and the Belgian Warmblood gelding Laffite de Muze have enjoyed great success. Laffitte de Muze was the USEF High Performance Hunter of the Year.
Equine
8 months ago
Laffite de Muze shines in $80,000 International Hunter Derby at World Equestrian Center

Amanda Steege and her Belgian Warmblood claim victory in Ocala’s premier hunter competition under the lights.

Ocala-based rider Josh Dolan and Something Blue placed third in the Platinum Performance/USHJA International Hunter Derby Challenge Round in Lexington, KY on Aug. 17, 2024.
Equine
8 months ago
Josh Dolan’s journey: How Ocala became the perfect home for his equestrian success

From junior rider to elite hunter trainer, Dolan shares his path to success, the horses that shaped him, and why the World Equestrian Center is his ideal competition venue

HD Rapids Percherons, owned and operated by the Deer Family of Kahnawake Mohawk Territory, driven by Justin Hille.
Entertainment
8 months 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.

Front of The Equestrian Hotel at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, decorated for Christmas.
Business
8 months 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.

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
8 months 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.