Since the Chamber of Commerce grants only five cities the title, “Horse Capital of the World”, qualifications are stringent. Consequently, we take pride in the fact that Ocala earned this honor. Interestingly, four of the five cities which earned the title are situated in the United States. But how did our city make the list? Firstly, Ocala has earned the designation based on the revenue produced by the equestrian industry here. Secondly, we note that breeding, training and related support services sustain over 44,000 jobs in this metropolitan area. Moreover, the local equestrian industry generates nearly $3 billion in annual revenue. But with the opening of the World Equestrian Center in 2021, the number is expected to grow to over ten billion. In fact, we expect the center to be the focal point of economic growth here for many years to come.

Additionally, Postime Farms and Ocala serve as hosts to one of the largest horse shows in the country. The event, H.I.T.S. or “HORSES in the Sun”, features dressage and jumper competitions and lasts about two months. Notably, the show offers classes of competition for over one hundred different equine breeds. For example, it spotlights the Tennessee Walker, Paso Fino, Morgan Horse, SaddleBred, Draft Horse and American Quarter Horse, to name a few. Moreover, Ocala hosts many other equine events as well. Uniquely featured are cowboy mounted shooting by the Florida Outlaws, endurance rides, and barrel races. Also on display are “extreme” cowboy events, jumper shows and trick riding shows. Additional highlights include parades, draft pulls, and rodeo events. Thus it is clear that our city is an equestrian haven.