Equestrian Endeavors
Photo by John Jernigan
Ocala Farm Tours
You’ve probably heard that the 2017 Kentucky Derby winner, Always Dreaming, was started and trained in Ocala at Crupi’s New Castle Farm. But Always Dreaming is hardly unusual; so many top Thoroughbreds get their start in Ocala, known far and wide as “Horse Capital of the World.” And it’s not just Thoroughbreds who make their home in Marion County. There are more horses and ponies—representing over 50 different breeds—in Ocala/ Marion County than anywhere else in the country. And 35,000 jobs in Ocala are related to the horse industry. The best way to experience a taste of the local horse industry is through a farm tour, which is where Ocala Farm Tours comes in. Whether you’ve been around horses your entire life, or don’t know a whinny from a nicker, this “insider’s tour” is both educational and entertaining. Limited to 10 people, the tour lasts approximately four hours and takes place in the morning, Monday through Saturday, rain or shine. (Afternoon tours are available for groups of five or more people with advance notice.) Tours are by reservation only and include visits to several local farms, where participants get an up-closeand-personal look at the horse industry. Tour guides are avid horse people and long-time Ocala area residents. “You’ll go behind the scenes of working horse farms in Ocala and meet the horses and people who work there,” explains tour operator Karen Grimes, noting that each tour includes three venues, and that the itinerary varies. The tour van departs from Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ and Owners’ Association. (352) 895-9302 › farmtoursofocala.com
Horse Country Carriage Co. & Tours
Learn about the area’s amazing equine history and famous horses as you tour some of Ocala’s beautiful farm country by horse-drawn carriage. Your tour guide shares facts, nostalgia and perhaps even a bit of gossip, accompanied by the musical clipclopping of hooves on peaceful back roads. Your hour-long carriage tour meanders along country lanes where you’ll see a variety of horses along the way. Tours by reservation only. (352) 727-0900 › hcccandt.com
Florida Agriculture Center and Horse Park This 500-acre facility is home to numerous local, national and international equine events throughout the year. (352) 307-6699 › flhorsepark.com OCT ’17 ›
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