Commitment to Ocala and Greater Economic Growth HITS’ commitment to Marion County continues to grow, entering the 2019 show season. The HITS Ocala Winter Circuit has been a staple of the Show Jumping calendar for decades, continually drawing world-class equestrians from across the globe, largely due to the support of patrons from Marion County. With steadfast spectator support, its footprint as the largest venue in the area, and an unmatched expertise in first-class operations and venue amenities, HITS continues to increase its investment even in the face of increased competition. HITS remains the largest equestrian venue in the area, with the highest attendance and biggest purses, and delivers unmatched equine expertise and event management – all while being an invaluable economic champion to the growth of Marion County.
20
| OCALAMAGAZINE.COM | FEB 2019
HITS works closely with the Ocala/ Marion County Visitors and Convention Bureau, the Marion Country Tourism Development Council, and the Florida Sports Foundation. The economic impact of the show on the community is unmistakable $94 million annually according to an independent study by the Sport Management Research Institute (SMRI). And the county and state have noticed with both the Florida Sports Foundation and the Ocala/Marion County Chamber of Commerce recognizing HITS over the previous few years. “The HITS Ocala Winter Circuit brings a great tourism impact to the Ocala/Marion County area each season,” says Corry Locke of the
Ocala/Marion County Visitors and Convention Bureau. HITS certainly sees the value in the relationship. “We’ve always felt welcome here and always felt like the community embraced us,” says Tom Struzzieri, president and chief executive officer, HITS, Inc. “But that relationship has really gone to another level in the last few years and we definitely want to give back to our communities.” Creating that symbiotic relationship with Marion County translates into increased tourism, newly developed jobs, real estate purchases and higher commercial development, and more heads in beds with local lodging partners. That heightened economic development and the support of thousands of spectators annually means even more opportunity for HITS to continually grow, innovate, lead and dominate the region.