Several Ocala Equestrian Events are among the largest in the country, including the 10-week HITS Ocala Winter Circuit, Live Oak International and numerous other events showcasing a number of disciplines and breeds.
The annual HITS event is a show jumping and hunter spectacular that attracts thousands of competitors from around the country, including world-class show jumpers competing for a $1 million grand prize and international level competitions.
Live Oak International features combined driving and high-level show jumping. Combined driving involves a horse-drawn carriage and driver competing in three separate phases, including dressage, cross-country marathon and obstacles. The driver who completes the three phases with the best score, wins. The discipline mirrors eventing, which is a three-phase competition with a rider on a horse.
Other Ocala equestrian events include dressage, reining and endurance.
Major Events
HITS Ocala Winter Circuit
With more than $3 million in prize money, the HITS show is the biggest in the county. The show is held annually from January through late March at HITS Post Time Farm.
Live Oak International
Live Oak International is the largest combined driving show in North America drawing thousands of fans. It is held at Live Oak Plantation, usually in March.
Equiventures/Ocala Jockey Club Eventing
The inaugural three-star eventing competition is scheduled for Nov. 24-27 on the newly built course at the Ocala Jockey Club.
Kentucky Derby
While the Derby is not in Ocala, perennially there are horses connected to Ocala which compete. Ocala is host to numerous Derby viewing parties.