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801 S.W. 60th Avenue, Ocala, FL 34474-1827Telephone: 352•732•8686 / Fax: 352•867•1979

E-Mail: summer@flequine.comwww.horsecapitaldigest.com

BUSINESS MANAGERPatrick Vinzant

ART DIRECTORJohn Filer

PRODUCTION COORDINATORSEmily Mills, Carol Vinzant

ADMINISTRATIVEASSISTANTBeverly Kalberkamp

CALENDAR OF EVENTS EDITORSarah White

PUBLISHERFlorida Equine Publications, Inc.

(A corporation owned by the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ and Owners’Association)

Executive Office - 801 S.W. 60th Avenue • Ocala, Florida 34474

FEP BOARD OF DIRECTORSPhil Matthews, President/Board Chairman

Brent Fernung, 1st Vice PresidentFrancis Vanlangendonck, 2nd Vice President

Sheila DiMare, SecretaryBonnie M. Heath III, Treasurer

CEO & EXECUTIVEVICE PRESIDENT – Lonny T. PowellCHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER – Caroline T. Davis

FTBOA OFFICERS AND BOARD OF DIRECTORSFred Brei, President

Brent Fernung, First Vice President Phil Matthews, Second Vice PresidentSheila DiMare, Secretary Bonnie M. Heath III, Treasurer

Advertising rates available upon request. All rights re-served. Reproduction of contentswithout permission prohibited.Opinions expressed in Horse Capital Digest are those of the in-dividual authors and are not necessarily those of the editors andowners of this publication.

Horse Capital Digest attempts to print reliable results andentries.We are not responsible if the information reported to usis in error.

YOUR INTERNET CONNECTIONTOTHE FLORIDATHOROUGHBRED INDUSTRY

http://www.wiretowire.net • Wire ToWire Daily Racing Digesthttp://www.thefloridahorse.com • The Florida Horse monthly magazine

http://www.ftboa.com • Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ and Owners’Association

Joe Barbazon Linda Appleton PotterCraig Bernick George RussellDean DeRenzo Jessica SteinbrennerRoy Lerman Charlotte C. WeberDiane Parks Eddie Woods

EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENTLonny T. Powell

TM

DIRECTORS

HORSECAPITALD I G E S T

Kent Farrington and Top Gun winning the2011 $100K DeLuca Toyota Tundra Grand Prix© ESI Photography

Brought to you by Horse Capital Digest in Ocala/Marion County,The Horse Capital of the World®.

COVER STORY

In Every Issueabout the

cover

8A Warm WelcomeA look at what’s new

and noteworthy in 2012

CONTEJanuary 2012

HORSECAPITALDIGE S T

Hit The BeachNew bistro offers food and fun,convenient to HITS Post Time Farm14

3 HITS Ocala Map12 HITS Bits27 News Bits32 Calendar of Events

Horse Feveris Back

Don’t miss out on seeing the10th anniversary herd!

NTSFeaturesFarm ManagementConserving water on the farm

15

Equine Metabolic DiseasesIs your horse just fat,

or could it be something more?

16

EclipseAwards

Florida-breds baskin the spotlight

ScenesFrom the Show

19 & 22

23Practically

SpeakingNew uses for old stuff

24

30

Britches and boots are not uncommon attire in therestaurants and grocery stores of Ocala at any time ofyear, but a marked increase in sightings of Tailored

Sportsmans and the like is one of the first clues that the in-flux of even more of us horse-crazy people has begun.There are other signs, such as more duallys in the parking

lots, having to wait for a table at a favorite restaurant, and,well, actual signs displayed on store fronts that read, “Wel-come Back, HITS!” or something along those lines.The energy and excitement your arrival creates is palpa-

ble. And thrilling events such as the Grand Prix classes at-tract even non-horsey spectators, serving as an introductionto the special magic of equestrian sport.In short, we want you to know that those welcome signs

are in earnest – we love having you as our customers, part-time residents, and friends.

Here’s a look at what’s new and noteworthy at theHITS Ocala Winter Circuit in 2012.The HITS Ocala Winter Circuit is kicking off in its

usual fashion this year at HITS Post Time Farm, with twoweeks of pre-circuit competition beginning with the OcalaJanuary Classic (Jan. 18-22) followed by the Ocala Janu-ary Festival (Jan. 26-30). But in addition to the familiarfeatures that draw competitors year after year – the ex-ceptional amenities and staff, the stellar lineup of classesand competitors, and the welcoming atmosphere, just toname a few – there are many exciting new events and ac-tivities on tap for the 2012 season.

WHAT’S NEW?OCALA PREMIEREHITS has added a week ofA-rated competition, the Ocala

Premiere (Jan. 31-Feb. 5), bringing the circuit to nine weeksof non-stop hunter/jumper action. The added week fills whatused to be the off week between the pre-circuit shows andthe rated circuit. The first week will be A-rated, and WeeksII-VII are AA-rated.“It’s such a popular circuit, to have the opportunity to

expand it is great. We’ve had an overwhelmingly positiveresponse from the competitors; they’re very excited,” saidLisa Engel, HITS’ Corporate Sponsorship and Marketingrepresentative.

HITS 3’ HUNTER PRIX

HITSOcala has the honor of hosting the first of the 33 qual-ifying classes for the all new $250,000 HITS 3’ Hunter PrixFinal, whichwill take place at HITS-on-the-Hudson in Sauger-ties, N.Y., alongside the third annual Pfizer $1 Million GrandPrix and the renewal of the Diamond Mills $500,000 HunterPrix Final.HITS also welcomes the National Professional Horse-

men’s Association’s (PHA) Medal and the Marshall & Ster-ling Junior Medal Final to the last weekend of showing inSaugerties in 2012 – creating a true year-end finale.“After seeing the response and success that we’ve had with

the Million and the $500,000 Hunter Prix Final, it’s clear thatthese events are revitalizing the sport and exciting our cus-tomers,” saidTom Struzzieri, HITS President and CEO. “Withthe addition of the $250,000 3’ Hunter Prix, we are creatingnew opportunities for an audience of riders who, until now,didn’t have the chance to compete in a year-end final of thismagnitude. I feel strongly that, through these programs, weare rebuilding and establishing a new level of show jumping.”Qualifying classes for the 3’ Hunter Prix will be offered

throughout the nine-month season at all five HITS circuits.Riders will have nine opportunities to qualify in Ocala forthe newest offering from HITS, with prize money rangingfrom $1,500 to $5,000.Continuing to set the standard for American show jumping

higher and higher, HITSis proud to offer hunter,jumper and equitation rid-ers the opportunity to bepart of amajor final and isexcited to present HITSOcala riders an earlychance at qualifying.To keep the 3’ HITS

Hunter Prix focused onits target audience, there will be significant cross entry re-strictions for qualifying classes during the season as well asthe Final. Detailed specifications and qualifying require-ments are available online at HitsShows.com.

AND MORE…HITS is excited to announce a number of new special

events and entertainment this year, including:

• Outfit of the Week, sponsored by Animo, will be fea-tured in the Overlook VIP Club each week.

• Pfizer Horse Owner Event, Saturday, Feb. 25, 6-9 p.m.in the OverlookVIP Club. All are welcome to attend. Therewill be an informative lecture on preventative equine health

AWarmWelcome

“After seeing the response and success that we’ve had with the Million andthe $500,000 Hunter Prix Final, it’s clear that these events are revitalizing thesport and exciting our customers. With the addition of the $250,000 3’ HunterPrix, we are creating new opportunities for an audience of riders who, until

now, didn’t have the chance to compete in a year-end final of this magnitude.”—Tom Struzzieri, HITS President and CEO.

care followed by a dinner and live music!

• Arenus OverallAthleteAward – Nominations start dur-ing the pre-circuit and can be made in the show office. Thewinner will be announced Week V.

• Showing of themovie “Secretariat” on Friday, Feb. 17, forthe whole family and a special reception Saturday, Feb. 18, inthe HITS restaurant, where Kate Chenery Tweedy will intro-duce her book, “Secretariat’sMeadow –The Land,The Family,andThe Legend,” which honors “America’s Super Horse.”

• Charles Owen Helmet Awareness Week is slated forFeb. 8-12.

RETURNING HIGHLIGHTSTHE EXCITING COMPETITIONHITS Ocala Winter Circuit continues to be a qualifying

hot spot for other divisions of HITS’championship weekendin NewYork. Grand Prix riders will have 16 chances to qual-ify for the 2012 Pfizer $1 Million Grand Prix, including theseason capstone $100,000 Sullivan GMCTruck Grand Prix,presented by Great American Insurance Group on Sunday,March 18. Hunter riders will have nine Devoucoux HunterPrix qualifiers with prize money ranging from $2,500 -$10,000 as they compete for a spot in the 2012 DiamondMills $500,000 Hunter Prix Final.Marshall&Sterling Insurance continues their sponsorship of

the Marshall & Sterling League for its 22nd consecutive showyear. The HITS OcalaWinter Circuit will host a full line-up ofMarshall & Sterling League Divisions. It’s the perfect time tobecome a member of theMarshall & Sterling League and startearning points to qualify for the National League Finals.The Thoroughbred Hunter Series also returns to the HITS

Ocala Winter Circuit this year, thanks to the generosity of itsmany sponsors.The 3’classes are open to horses of any age thatare registered in any stud book recognized byThe Jockey Club.These and other special classes, plus the depth and breadth

of classes and divisions offered make HITS Ocala WinterCircuit the destination of choice for equestrians at all levels.

THE LOCATIONOcala/Marion County – Horse Capital of theWorld ® – has

more horses and ponies than any other county in the U.S., ac-cording to the USDA, making it a mecca for the horse indus-try. Equestrian goods and services are abundant, from feed, hay

A look at what’s new and noteworthyat the HITS Ocala Winter Circuit in 2012

ESIP

HOTO

Andre Thieme had three Grand Prix victories at the 2011HITS Ocala Winter Circuit, including the $50,000 HITS

Grand Prix on his mount, Cesar (pictured). Thieme qualifiedfor the 2011 Pfizer Million Grand Prix and flew in from

Germany to Saugerties, N.Y., in September, taking homethe top prize with his own horse, Aragon Rouet.

and bedding, veterinary and farrier services,trucks and trailers, to tack and other related prod-ucts. The amenities and supporting industries,plusmineral-rich pastures and temperatewintersmake this an ideal location to ride, train andcompete horses, in the winter and year-round.

THE FACILITYAside from continuing to offer competitive

stabling, feed and bedding prices, HITS PostTime Farm in Ocala provides riders withample space for stabling, competing, trainingand riding all within the same property. Per-manent stabling at HITS Ocala is in high de-mand thanks to 22 permanent barns spreadthroughout the facility, while tents provide anadditional 2,000 stalls when needed. HITSPost Time Farm also boasts lovely furnishedcondos and a number of houses available forrent, located on and around the show grounds,and nearly 100 permanent turnout paddocks.

THE FOODHITS Post Time Farm offers one of the best

on-site food service pavilions around.Grab somelunch and find a grassy spot on the berms or sitin the bleachers towatch some of theworld’s bestshow jumping in the heart of theMarionCounty.Additionally, HITS has once again teamed

up with a number of dining partners to caterunique lunches in the Overlook VIP club andsponsor special events such as the Pfizer HighPerformance Riders Dinner and the HITSOcala Sponsor Reception.

THE GOODSThe vendor courtyard at HITS Post Time

Farm features more than a dozen shops of-fering quality equestrian gear, apparel, jew-elry and souvenirs.

THE AWARDSHITS is always looking for an opportunity to

recognize the achievements of the individualswho make it all possible; that includes com-petitors, horses, grooms, and even dogs.Awardssuch as the Exclusive Top Dog, the LeadingMare (sponsored by Equine Medical Center ofOcala, Stallion Services), the Grooms Award(sponsored by Odor-No-More), and more, areback again thanks to their generous sponsors.

THE FUNReturning entertainment includes Country

103.7 FM The Gator’s HITS Welcome Partyat the Hilton on Sunday, Feb. 12, theWorld ofthe Horse Exhibition on Feb. 26, the PurinaMills Pre-Prix Party and Horseless Horse

Show on Saturday, March 10, followed by Pu-rina Mills’Kids Day, presented by Local Edgeon Sunday, March 11, the Arenus Rising StarChallenge Karaoke Night on Friday ,March 2,and the Team Barber Exhibition Party on Fri-day, March 16.

THE LEARNINGThe Education Station continues to provide

services on site for student riders participat-ing in the HITS Ocala Winter Circuit to helpthem stay on track with their school curricu-lum.

For dates and more information on all theevents, awards and entertainment of the 2012HITS OcalaWinter Circuit, see pages 12-13 inthis issue, or go online to HitsShows.com/Ocala.

HCD

Warm Welcome

BARN & BARN PRODUCTS� Amberway EquineBrian Lynch248.431.1875

CLOTHING, ACCESSORIES& GIFTS� 98Cows.comDon Woodward727.867.0884

� Animo303.317.3484USAnimo.com

� Blueberry HillArdath Hastey561.578.0051

� Briar HillLarry Smith800-750-6079

� The CollectionRobin Petix585.739.7096TheCollectionOnlineStore.com

� Der Dau Custom BootsJose Der718.336.4513DerDau.com

� Design WorksZorka Pondell810.678.3537

� Diligence EnterprisesPam Hill240.626.0129

� Gifted PaddockShirley Crawford615.512.7007

� HITS SouvenirsLocated at Mona’s Monograms

� Ronald Ravan JewelerRonald Ravan770.539.3466

� Rose HollowKendall Clark936.271.2505

� Wild Horses, Ltd.Elaine Riley617.734.0408

EMBROIDERY & ENGRAVING� Mona’s MonogramsMona Garray860.649.1272MonasMonograms.com

GOLF CART RENTAL� Dever, Inc.859.455.9586DeverInc.com

PHOTOGRAPHERS & VIDEO� Official HITS PhotographerESI PhotographyGlen Burgess978.319.3449ESIphoto@yahoo.com

� CatchRide LLCKatherine Breunig214.532.0199

TACK & SADDLERY� Antares Sellier France800.250.9284AntaresSaddle.com

� The Custom FoxJohn Pfeiffer734.854.1111CustomFox.com

� CWD Precision Saddles818.859.7708CWDSellier.com

� Devoucoux, Inc.800.847.7785Devoucoux.com

� FarmVetChristian Currey888.837.3626FarmVet.com

� The Hunting HornShelly Shaulinski585.385.9690TheHuntingHorn.com

� Judy’s Tack ShopJudy Orbesen901.755.5314Judystackshop.net

� The Tack Shelter, Inc.Dennis Bermack732.303.0055TheTackShelter.com

� Tenney’s Custom SaddleryJim Tenney813.780.8016

� Voltaire Design845.875.4438VoltaireDesign.com

HITS Ocala Vendors 2012

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Situated on 100 grassy acres in northeastMarionCounty,the Florida Thoroughbred Retirement Farm is home to more than 50Florida-bred ex-racehorses. All of the horses arrive at the farm after theircareers on the racetrack are over. Sure, their racing days are behind them,but after rest and retraining, many of the horses at the Florida TRF areready for adoption. Many go on to enjoy second careers in dressage, trailriding, jumping, pleasure riding and other uses. Even those horsesthat are not rideable may find adoptive homes as companion an-imals. As more horses are adopted into new homes, more spacesare available for horses to join the Florida TRF program.

The farm is operated in conjunction with the Florida Departmentof Corrections and Marion Correctional Institution and all thehorses are cared for by female inmates from the LowellCorrectional Institute.Thewomen, all non-violent offenders, spendtheir days learning barn management skills including grooming,feeding, doctoring, and physical therapy and they help teach thehorses new disciplines. It’s a symbiotic relationshipwhereby the horses learnthe skills they need to go on to new careers and the inmates learn about team-work and trust. At the conclusion of the year-long program,having successfully passed 22written tests covering all aspects of horse care,inmates graduate with a vocational certificate in equine care technology.Upon their release, some of the graduates have gone on to work in theindustry as grooms and stable managers.

Two famous Florida-bred champions permanently reside at the farm:Carterista, the 1993 Florida ChampionTurf Horse andwinner of eight stakesraces, and Shake You Down, the 2003 Florida Champion Sprinter andwinner of nearly $1.5 million.

The Florida TRF currently has a waiting list for incomingThoroughbreds. In order to join the list, the horse should be aFlorida-bred Thoroughbred, coming straight from the track. The

horse should be retired due to age or physical condition. ContactFlorida Thoroughbred Charities for more information at 352-629-2160.A donation is requested along with each horse accepted into the program.

Founded in 2001, the farm is supported though the concentrated effortsof Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ and Owners’ Association, FloridaThoroughbred Charities, Ocala Breeders’Sales Company, Gulfstream Park,Calder RaceCourse,TampaBayDowns, the FloridaHorsemen’s Benevolentand Protective Association, the national Thoroughbred RetirementFoundation, as well as by many individuals who contribute through dona-tions and fundraising efforts.

For more information on adopting a retired Florida-bred racehorse, pleasecontact the FTBOA offices at 352-629-2160.

Since 1990 Florida Thoroughbred Charities, the non-profit, charitablearm of the FTBOA has raised more than $3.5 million for a variety ofcommunity and Thoroughbred industry causes. Much of the fundraisingefforts are made possible due to thesupport FTBOA and FTC receivefrom corporate sponsorship.

MeredithWoodsPhotos

Florida Thoroughbred Retirement Farm

FLORIDA THOROUGHBREDBREEDERS’ AND OWNERS’ ASSOCIATION

801 SW 60th Ave. • Ocala, FL 34474352-629-2160 • Fax: 352-629-3603www.ftboa.com • info@ftboa.com

2012 HITS Ocala WinterCircuit Special EventsMake sure to checkHITS’website regularly

for updates to the schedule!

Every Monday it’s Mondaysat the Mall!

The Paddock Mall will offer specials forHITS every Monday during the 2012 HITSOcala Winter Circuit – don’t miss it!Spend your Mondays at the Paddock Malllocated on Hwy. 200, 3100 College Rd.,Ocala.

January 31-February 5Week I: Ocala Premiere

February 7-12Week II: Ocala Winter Classic

February 8-12

Charles Owen HelmetAwareness Week

Representatives fromCharles Owen Helmets willbe on hand to educate riders on the impor-tance of properly fitted, approved ridinghelmets. Make sure to fill out a CharlesOwen Riders’ Pledge and enter to win afree Charles Owen Helmet. Winner an-nounced Sunday.

Thursday, February 9

HITS Ocala Sponsor Reception atCuvée Wine andBistro, 6-9 p.m.– invite only

HITS welcomes its sponsors to the OcalaWinter Circuit with a special reception atCuvéeWine and Bistro located at 2237 SW19th Ave. Rd., Ocala. This is an invitation-only event for our valued HITS sponsorsand is graciously hosted by Cuvée Wineand Bistro.The reception will start at 6 p.m. Contact

Lisa Engel at Lisa@hitsshows.com formore information.

Sunday, February 12

HITSWelcome Party Sponsored byThe Gator 103.7 FM, 6-10 p.m.

HITS Ocala’s Official Radio Station, TheGator 103.7 is hosting aWelcomeHITS Party atThe Hilton, located at3600 SW 36th Avenue,off Hwy. 200. All are welcome to attend –complimentary music, food and drink. Don’tmiss this party because it’s going to be a HIT!

February 14-19 Week III:Ocala Winter Festival

Friday, February 17

Movie Night – 7 p.m.

Bring the family to the Grand Prix arenaand watch “Secretariat”!

Saturday, February 18

Special Reception at the HITSRestaurant honoring Secretariat

at 7 p.m.Presented by Kate

Chenery Tweedy, au-thor of “Secretariat’sMeadow – The Land,The Family, The Leg-end.”Meet the author and

some of Secretariat’s exer-cise riders and learn about the great

red stallion that became the 1973Triple CrownWinner and “America’s SuperHorse.”Compli-mentary reception – all are welcome to attend!

February 21-26Week IV: Ocala Masters

Thursday, February 23

Pfizer High Performance RidersDinner at Ipanema, 7-10 p.m.– invite only

HITS and Ipanema wel-come all Grand Prix com-petitors on the road to thePfizer $1 Million Grand Prix in this specialinvitation-only event at Ipanema BrazilianSteakhouse at 2023 S. Pine Ave., Ocala.

The reception startsat 7 p.m. Please emailLisa Engel atlisa@hitsshows.com for more information.

Saturday, February 25

Pfizer Horse Owner Event, 6-9 p.m.

All are welcome to join Pfizer in the Over-lookVIP Club. There will be an informativelecture on preventative equine health carefollowed by a dinner and live music!

Sunday, February 26

World of the Horse with specialon-site broadcast by The Gator103.7 FM – 11 a.m.

Numerous breeds of horses will be repre-sented in a colorful parade sure to delight allhorse lovers. The action takes place in theGrand Prix ring prior to the $50,000Strongid C 2X Grand Prix, presented byPfizer Animal Health. Special exhibitions,booths and demonstrations will take placeduring the day celebrating the World of theHorse. Stay tuned for more details!

February 28-March 4Week V: Ocala Tournament

Friday,March 2

Arenus Rising Star (Karaoke) Chal-lenge at the HITS Restaurant 6-8 p.m.

TheMusicalE q u e s t r i a ntakes a breakfrom the sad-dle and picks up the ‘mike.” Come to theExhibitor Party sponsored byArenus – havefun and share your talent – Get ready nowand pick your song!Three prizes awarded: Best Brand Song

– the person who sings the best song incor-porating anArenus product in it like SORE-NO-MORE or Assure, Charisma Award –best effort, most entertaining, most fun per-formance, such as blending in horse showlyrics to a known song, and Rising StarAward – best overall singing.Judging will be done by the crowd on the

night of the competition.

March 6- 11Week VI: Ocala Winter Finals

Friday,March 9

The Purina Mills Pre-Prix Party andHorseless Horse Show – 5 p.m.

All arewelcome to the PurinaMills Pre-PrixParty Friday night in the HITS Overlook VIPClub to enjoy food, fun and entertainment.Don’t miss the Horseless

Horse Show – sign up informa-tion to be posted. Fun for every-one!

Sunday,March 11

Purina Mills’Kids Day, presented byLocal Edge, with The Gator 103.7FM on-site – 11 a.m.Live music,

bounce house, pet-ting zoo, arts, craftsand more. There will be plenty to delight!

March 13-18Week VII: Ocala Celebration

Friday,March 16

Team Barber End of CircuitBarbeque Bash

HITS’ OfficialVeterinarians, Team Barber, sponsor this goodold-fashioned country cookout, complete withbarbeque and live music! The party is from 6-8 p.m. in the HITS restaurant and all are wel-come to attend the Grand Finale party of theHITS OcalaWinter Circuit!

Sunday,March 18

$100,000 Sullivan GMC TruckGrand Prix, presented byGreatAmerican Insurance,The Gator 103.7 FM on site

The jumpsare big and sois the prizemoney! Makesure to get to the show early to check out HITS’Official Radio Station, The Gator 103.7 FMbroadcasting live on site. The Antares SellierParade ofChampions kicks off about 1 p.m. and

the $100,000 Sullivan GMCTruckGrandPrix, presented byGreat American InsuranceCompany will start no earlier

than 2 p.m. This is your last chance of the sea-son to watch worldclass show jumping –don’t miss it!

Ocala 2012 Special Awards:Week I - VI Awards

Weekly ExclusiveTopDogAwardSubmit a photo of your Hardest Working

ShowDog Sunday through noon Saturday.

Week V Awards

ArenusAllAroundAthleteAwardAwarded to the Horse (and rider) at competi-tions that most represents the best qualities inthe sport including: best condition and overallmuscle fitness and balance; best natural abilityand movement to perform the sport; best atti-tude demonstrating enjoyment of the sport;best effort in competing; best connection/com-munication with rider in understanding andperforming the sport; best traits including per-sonality representing an ambassador for thesport.Nominate your favorite horse/rider combi-

nation for the season and drop in the box at theArenus display.

Week VII Awards

Antares Sellier Parade of ChampionsThe HITS Overall Circuit Champions will

be recognized byHITS SponsorAntares Sellier in the annual Parade of Cham-pions, set to take place in the Grand Prix arenaprior to the $100,000 Sullivan GMC TruckGrand Prix, presented by Great American In-surance.

TheOcala Style of RidingAward presentedby Ocala StyleMagazineAwarded to the rider

who exhibits the bestAmerican style of riding

and possesses the respectful, dignified, courte-ous and workmanlike manner of a true sports-man on the 2012 OcalaWinter Circuit.

The Leading Mare Award, presented byEquine Medical CenterofOcala Stallion ServicesAwarded to the most

winning mare in GrandPrix competitions during the entire 2012HITSOcala Winter Circuit. The leading mare willwin a free embryo transfer from Equine Med-ical Center of Ocala’s Stallion Services, per-formed by Dr. Corey Miller.

The Catena Leading Hunter RiderNew this year, the Lead-

ing Hunter Rider will beawarded a beautiful, hand-crafted watch from Catena,USA. Details in the show office!

The Groom’sAward,sponsored by Odor-No-MoreThe Groom’s Award is

chosen through popularvote. The voting box is inthe show office along withentry forms. Voting takes place Pre-Circuitthrough Saturday, noon, Week VI. One voteper person per groom. The groom with themost votes wins!

Overall HITSOcala PMIExclusiveTopDogAwardVoting is by individual

email vote and begins Sunday, Week VI andcloses by noon, SaturdayWeekVII.

Platinum Performance Leading GrandPrix RiderAwardPlatinum Per-

formance recog-nizes the most winning Grand Prix rider overthe entire 2012HITSOcalaWinter Circuit Cir-cuit.

Week I: Ipanema Brazilian Steakhouse2023 S Pine Avenue, Ocalawww.ipanemaocala.com

Week II: CuvéeWine and Bistro2237 SW 19th Ave. Rd.,Ocalawww.cuveewineocala.com

Week III: Cody’sOriginal Roadhouse2505 SW College Road,Ocalawww.codysoriginalroad-house.com

Weeks IV–VII: TBA

VIP Restaurants serving in the Overlook Club on Sundays:

By Danette Philpot

Right down the road from HITS Post Time Farm, atthe corner of U.S. Hwy. 27 and Hwy. 326, the Selffamily has been feverishly preparing for the grand

opening of The Beach Ocala, set for the end of January –just in time for the HITS season. “It’s a gamble in this econ-omy, but small businesses help put people to work.We wantto give people jobs,” said Mary Self.Jesse and Mary Self have made the annual trek from An-

napolis, Md., with their two sons, Matthew and Jesse, anddaughter Katrina, for 13 years to winter in Florida and showat HITS. The Selfs have a small farm near the show grounds.“Katrina started showing when she was 10 years old.We loveit here and hopefully will retire to Ocala,” Mary explained.Katrina now attends law school at the University of Florida,

but is on hand helping prepare the restaurant. Katrina andMary are also busy getting horses ready for the show ring.The Beach Ocala is designed with the equestrian competitor

in mind. They plan to offer daily breakfast specials and a fullline of delectable coffees and espressos. Lunch and dinner willbring out an array of soups, salads, flatbread pizzas andpressed sandwiches. The menu items willbe prepared with all natural,high quality ingre-dients.

“Taste and quality matter to our family and we want thatfor our customers,” said Mary.But the taste bud extravaganza does not end there. The

Beach Ocala will have a full-service bar and package storeto a quench the toughest arena-dust thirst. From TGIM(Thank Goodness It’s Monday), featuring margaritas, moji-tos and martinis, to Wine down Wednesday with half pricewine bottles, to Friday night karaoke, there’s plenty to en-tertain during the week.Weekends will start with a Sunday morning BloodyMary

drink bar. Customers will be able to design and mix theirown Bloody Mary from a wide range of ingredients. Week-end afternoons will energize with live acoustical entertain-ment and large flat-screen TVs will pipe in the Grand Prixfrom Wellington. Sunday night they’ll cap off the weekendwith a DJ to celebrate the end of the show week.With its close proximity to the show grounds, The Beach

Ocala is easily accessible by golf cart, and the golf cart park-ing lot is equipped with power so customers can recharge.The bistro is pet-friendly as well, allowing patrons to enjoya meal or beverage on the “Dog-Friendly Deck.”

Join the fun at The Beach Ocala –no sunscreen required!

The Beach Ocala is located at 13201 WestHwy. 326, Ocala. Hours of operation are:Mon.-Wed., 11a.m. - 2 a.m.;Thurs. - Sun., 7 a.m. - 2 a.m.

For more information visit TheBeach Ocala on Facebook atfacebook.com/thebeachocalaor call 352-351-0371.

HCD

Hit the BeachOcala will soon offer competitors and spectators a new, friendly

bistro where they can refuel, relax and have fun.

Opening soon,The Beach Ocala is

easily accessible bygolf cart from HITS

showgrounds.

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BYD

ANET

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Happy New Year! Hopefully, the year hasstarted out nicely and everyone is gettingused to some cooler temperatures. Pre-

serving water quality to help protect our beauti-ful springs and aquifer is a topic routinelymentioned, but I rarely discuss how to USELESS water on the farms (or even in yourhomes, for that matter).

Let’s start with basics. Check all faucets,hose sprayers and nozzles, automatic waterers,toilets and pipes for leaks. Do you want tof ind out how much water comes from thatleaky equipment? To learn the answer, go to:http://ga.water.usgs.gov/edu/sc4.html. This is theUSGS—Science for a Changing World website.This interesting and very informative linktakes you to a page that calculates how muchwater is lost from your home (which can beeasily made to work for barns). It also has lotsof other very interesting facts about water andwater use. There is even a good quiz aboutwater knowledge. I’m depressed to say that Ididn’t score too well, so I guess I still needmore education, too!

Regarding automatic waterers, they can be agood choice to help save water (as opposed tothrowing out unused water from buckets), but Iam old-school and will always prefer fillingbuckets so I know how much my horses aredrinking. If you are like me and refuse to switch,then try using the unused bucket water byadding it to your stall waste if you compost,which will cut down on adding additionalpotable water, or by using it on your landscapedareas instead of watering them from a hose. Abig barrel can be used to hold all of the waterthat is dumped out of the buckets. This barrel ofwater can then be held until needed, for thingslike bathing the horses.

Rain barrels placed at the end of the barns cancollect the water that normally drains from thegutters on the roof, instead of just letting it drip tothe ground, potentially creating puddles and ex-cess runoff in those bad Florida summer storms.

That collected water can also be used for a varietyof things, helping to cut down on your groundwa-ter use. This water is perfect for watering yourplants and flowers on the farm, or it can also beused to water your track and riding rings. Youcould get really “green” and cover the barn roofwith vegetation, helping to soak up the rain(avoiding puddles) and treating any rainwaterrunoff naturally to help eliminate excess sedi-ments and nutrients.

Gulleys and ditches on the farm. Vegetation isa great natural soaker of rain water and can alsohelp slow water’s speed of travel. Plantingshrubs, bushes and grass in areas that normally

are a path for rain flow will help break up the“river” that can be caused in a storm. Addition-ally, you can also use this new vegetation in a“pretty” way to help spruce up your barn area.Lastly, gravel in excessive travel areas can worknicely as a sort of “permeable pavement” forsoaking up a bit more water.

Consider this fact: Seventy-five percent ofthe Earth is water, but only a little more than 2percent of that is fresh water and almost two-thirds of that 2 percent is locked up in the icecaps and glaciers. That certainly doesn’t leavemuch for us all todrink! Hopefully theseideas have given you agood start on ideas forwater savings and/orbetter ways to use thewater already takenout of the aquifer.

As always, keep upthe good managementpractices! HCD

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Schedule a Farm Call:

Jamie A. CohenFarm Outreach CoordinatorUF IFAS/Marion County Extension Service352-671-8792 • jamiecohen@ufl.edu

FARM MANAGEMENT

Consider this fact: Seventy-five percent of the Earth iswater, but only a little more than 2 percent of that is freshwater, and almost two-thirds of that 2 percent is locked upin the ice caps and glaciers.

By Sarah M Reuss, VMD, DACVIMUniversity of Florida College ofVeterinary Medicine

Obesity is becoming a more well-recognizeddisease in all of our domestic animalspecies. It can be either a cause or effect of

other disease conditions or problems. Obesity canworsen orthopedic conditions such as arthritis andmay predispose horses to laminitis. It may be due

to simple overfeeding for the amount of exercisebeing performed, or it may be due to an actual dis-ease condition. The two diseases that can cause ab-normal weight gain or distribution in horses areEquine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS, also referred toas insulin resistance) and Equine Cushing’s Disease(also known as pituitary pars intermedia dysfunc-tion, PPID).Cushing’s disease is due to dysfunction at the level

The two diseases that can cause abnormal weight gain or

–or Does He Have aIsMyHorse

EquineCare

of the brain. There is damage to the hypothalamus,an area of the brain that produces a hormone calleddopamine which is supposed to suppress the pitu-itary gland. When this suppressive factor is nolonger present, the pituitary gland (specif ically thepars intermedia portion of the pituitary) begins tosecrete increased amounts of several hormones (e.g.,ACTH, MSH, B-endorphin) that cause some of theclinical signs directly as well as an increase in cor-

tisol release from the adrenal glands. The pituitarygland continues to enlarge with functional adenomas(small tumors). These can become large enough tocompress other areas of the pituitary gland and hy-pothalamus resulting in some loss of their functionas well. The Cushing’s disease that we see in horsesis different than that seen in dogs or people, so PPIDis the preferred term for the disease in horses.PPID is generally seen in older horses. The average

age is 19-21, but it has been diagnosed in horses asyoung as 7. The prevalence increases drastically after30 years. It is more common in ponies than horses.PPID causes changes in the fat and muscle distribu-tion in affected horses. Fat accumulates in the crestof the neck, tailhead, over the eyes, and in the sheath.At first, horses may have more overall weight gainbut over time, they lose the muscle along theirtopline leaving more of a potbellied appearance. Oneof the most telltale signs of PPID is called hirsuitismwhich is an excessively long hair coat that does notshed out normally. Laminitis or founder can affect upto 80 percent of horses with PPID. The mechanism isunclear, but this painful condition may be the ulti-mate cause of death in PPID affected horses. Othersigns that you may notice in a horse with PPID areincreased thirst, increased urination, lethargy, in-creased appetite, change in temperament, recurrent

infections, infertility, increased sweating, and/or per-sistent lactation in mares.Testing for PPID is a common source of confu-

sion and debate. The baseline ACTH is the mostcommon screening test. This test involves just tak-ing a blood sample, so there is no risk to the horse.The main problem with the test is that there isknown seasonal variation in ACTH in horses withlevels being higher in the fall. The “gold standard”

test for PPID is the dexamethasone suppression test.This test involves drawing a baseline blood sample,administering dexamethasone, and then repeating ablood draw at 15 and 19 hours. There is some risk tothis test as the administration of dexamethasone hasbeen linked to the occurrence of laminitis in somehorses. Other tests include a thyrotropin-releasinghormone stimulation test, combined dexametha-sone-thyrotropin-releasing hormone stimulationtest, and domperidone challenge test. Resting cor-tisol levels are not a good test as there is a lot ofnormal variation in all horses.Treatment of horses with PPID involves both man-

agement and drug therapy. Regular deworming, den-tal, and foot care is necessary due to some of theclinical signs seen with the disease. Body clippingis also very useful for horses that do not shed outnormally. Good quality hay and feed with high nu-trient density should be fed. Equine Senior is a goodoption for many of these horses if they require a con-centrate to maintain adequate body condition. Theprimary drug currently used in the treatment ofPPID is pergolide. This is an oral drug with minimalside effects, but it must be handled and stored care-fully. Other drugs that have been used include cypro-heptadine, bromocriptine, and trilostane. Herbaltreatments such as chaste berry have been advocated,

distribution in horses are Equine Metabolic Syndrome and Equine Cushing’s Disease.

Metabolic Disease?Just Fat?

but there is no scientif ic proof that they are effec-tive in horses with PPID.Equine Metabolic Syndrome should be suspected

in any overweight horse described as an “easykeeper.” EMS is seen in horses over 5 years of ageand is most common in ponies, Morgans, Arabians,and Fjords but can be seen in any breed. There iscurrent research looking for a genetic marker, butthis appears to be a disease with a genetic predispo-sition that is brought on by management factors.Most horses with EMS are obese with a body condi-tion score greater than 7 out of 9. They will alsohave regional fat distribution like horses with PPIDbut will not have the muscle loss. Horses with EMSoften present for spontaneously occurring laminitisthat may occur in association with pasture or feedchanges.Diagnosis of EMS is dependent on the measure-

ment of serum insulin, as insulin resistance is partof the syndrome similar to Type II diabetes in peo-ple. A resting serum insulin concentration can beperformed as a screening test, but the horse must befasted overnight prior to the blood sampling. Bloodglucose is checked at the same time, but most horsesmaintain a normal blood glucose even with insulinresistance. If this test isequivocal, a combined glu-cose-insulin rest can be per-formed. An oral sugar testusing Karo syrup has alsobeen developed.Horses with EMS may

develop PPID as they getolder. In other species, obe-sity has been associatedwith a chronic inflamma-tory state which may causePPID at a younger age.Horses with EMS should bemonitored carefully formuscle atrophy, hair coatabnormalities, alterations inmetabolism, and exacerbation of hyperinsulinemiaor laminitis. If these develop, testing for PPIDshould be performed, as horses can have both dis-eases.Unlike PPID, there is no direct pharmacologic

treatment for EMS. The bulk of treatment is dietaryand management. Horses with EMS should go on aweight reduction diet. This includes no grain and adry lot or small paddock. For the f irst two weeks,they should receive 1.5 percent of their current bodyweight per day in hay. Weeks 2-6, they should be fed1.5 percent of their ideal body weight per day in hay.After that, they should receive 1 percent of their

body weight per day. The hay should be low in non-structural carbohydrates. This can be confirmed viaforage analysis or by soaking hay for at least 30 min-utes prior to feeding it. A vitamin and mineral sup-plement should also be considered. Exercise is veryimportant for the horse not undergoing an activelaminitic bout, and should consist of 30 minutes oftrot and canter four to seven times per week. MostEMS horses can return to some degree of pastureonce they have lost weight, however horses with re-current severe laminitis may be safest in a dry lot.Grazing muzzles can also be very useful. Turnoutshould occur in the early morning or late at nightwhen grass sugar content is the lowest.Historically, many horses with EMS have been

treated with levothyroxine (Thryo-L) a thyroid sup-plement. While these horses do not have actual thy-roid dysfunction, short term supplemental thyroidhormone will increase insulin sensitivity and weightloss. Weight loss will only occur, however, if calo-ries are also restricted, so levothyroxine may be pre-scribed for three to six months to accelerate weightloss while other management changes are instituted.Metformin is another drug used in people with in-sulin insensitivity that has been looked at for thetreatment of horses with EMS. So far, the studiesthat have been performed have conflicting results.Herbal supplements such as magnesium, chromium,and cinnamon have not been shown to alter insulinsensitivity in horses.While horses with EMS are often treated with thy-

roid hormones, the existence of true hypothyroidismin the horse is controversial. Historically, hypothy-roidism has been linked to obesity, laminitis, an-hidrosis (non-sweating), recurrent tying up, anddecreased fertility. In all of those cases, however, ac-

tual hypothyroidism could not be documented, andmost of these horses more likely suffered from PPIDor EMS. To truly diagnose thyroid dysfunction, athyroid stimulation test would have to be performed.Equine Metabolic Syndrome and PPID remain a

source of confusion and frustration for many own-ers and veterinarians. Differentiating between thetwo diseases can be diff icult. The age of onset, ap-pearance of the haircoat, and presence of muscleloss may all help in addition to blood tests. Man-agement is a significant part of both diseases, withthe main goal being to prevent secondary complica-tions such as laminitis. HCD

Is My Horse Just Fat?

Equine Metabolic Syndrome and PPID remain asource of confusion and frustration for many ownersand veterinarians. Differentiating between the two

diseases can be difficult. The age of onset, appearanceof the haircoat, and presence of muscle loss may all

help in addition to blood tests.

It’s been even warmer than usual in Ocala this winter, but earlyHITS arrivals had to bundle up during a brief cold snap that descendedon Ocala while they were preparing for the HITS Ocala pre-circuits.

1) Irish Jack Russell Pearlz finds a sunny spot to warm up. 2) Germaine Edelmann of Rex-ford, N.Y., is getting acquainted with her new mount, Gonasse, a 6-year-old Belgian Warm-blood. “This is my second season here. Last year was great!” said Edelmann. 3) Scott Walkeroffers encouraging words to his riders from atop his mount, Baroness, a Canadian Warm-blood. 4) New arrivals Maryann Cunningham and Turtle, an Oldenburg mare, enjoy a ride inthe sunshine. 5) Rider Kelsey Landrigan and Nancy Di Gregorio praise 4-year-old mareLinka for a job well done. Linka isa Canadian Sport Horse owned byJay Di Gregorio.

Scenes from the ShowPHOTOS BY DANETTE PHILPOT

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www.facebook.com/thefloridahorseFlorida... the Best State for Business

No tax on stallion seasons.No personal state income tax.

No individual capital gains tax.National leader in veterinary and equine research.

Ranked third in the U.S. for number of horses and size of horse industry.Feed and animal health items, along with other specific items, are also exempt.

Horses are exempt from sales tax when purchased from their original breeder.Florida’s greenbelt exemption provides property tax breaks for Florida horse farms.

Physical climate allows for year-round training, racing, showing and business opportunities.

FLORIDA DEPT. OF AGRICULTURE AND CONSUMER SERVICESAdam Putnam, Commissioner 850-921-7916 • Fax 850-922-0374

e-mail:michael.ryshouwer@freshfromflorida.com407 S. Calhoun • 427-A Mayo Building, Tallahassee, FL 32399

FLORIDA THOROUGHBRED BREEDERS’AND OWNERS’ ASSOCIATION

801 SW 60th Ave. • Ocala, FL 34474 • 352-629-2160Fax: 352-629-3603 • www.ftboa.com • info@ftboa.com

From coast to coast,Florida’s tax-friendly, pro-business

environment is poised and ready toattract new companies and create

new employment opportunities.

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Scenesfrom the Show

6) David Tromp of New York pilotsZiDane Z, an 8-year-old Dutch Warm-blood gelding, over a jump. 7) SamWalker and his Welsh-cross pony, Kohl,execute a canter. 8) Chloe, a JackRussell who hails from Top Call Farm inOcala, sports a trendy coat to ward offthe chill. 9) Dee Walker rides Satino,a Dutch Warmblood gelding, and getshim accustomed to the new surround-ings. 10) Colt Ellerman of Topeka,Kan., just celebrated his 4th birthday.He is keeping busy trying to attach alead rope to his dog Ferdinand whilebulldog Fred looks on.

PHOTOS BY DANETTE PHILPOT

Ifnecessity is the mother of invention then frugal-ity must be the sire. Long before the slogan “Useit up, wear it out, make it do, or do without” be-

came the mantra of American consumers duringWorld War II, farmers had been observing this time-less practice.One of the first things I learned on the farm was to

fix what needed to be fixed using whatever was avail-able on site. Just because something was broken did-n’t mean you needed to drive all the way into townand buy a replacement. More importantly, some re-pairs such as a cracked water line or broken gatehinge need to be performed immediately.Most horse farms I’ve worked on had a shop with

a few basic tools (hammers, screwdrivers, wrenches,etc.) as well as a storage area for items such as bal-ing wire, hay string, cracked water buckets, brokenboards and posts, tires, inner tubes and lots of otherstuff no longer good for its original purpose. Nearlyall horse farmers can fix most anything, at least tem-porarily, with a little ingenuity, duct tape, balingwire, a hammer and whatever can be scavengedfrom the “junk pile.” Similar to a pressure band-age, water line leaks can be stopped with rubberstrips cut from old inner tubes secured with balingwire. A broken gate hinge can also be repaired withbaling wire.“Reduce, reuse, recycle” and “repurpose” are pop-

ular ways to say what farmers have long considered anormal way of life. Following are a few examples ofon-farm recycling:� Cracked water buckets can be use to carry fence repair

or welding supplies.� Fifty-gallon food grade barrels make great dry, ro-

dent/bug resistant feed storage containers. Non-work-ing chest type freezers can also be used.

� Five-gallon food grade pails with lid are great for dry,rodent-proof mineral and/or supplement storage.

� Chain link fencing or old tires chained together make agreat pasture drag.

� Old fiberglass car top carriers provide waterproof storage.� Use two or five pound coffee cans in the shop for stor-

ing nails, fence staples, screws, washers, etc.� Bleach or detergent bottles can be cut to make feed

scoops.� Old inner tubes make excellent hose and plumbing

splices.� Feed sacks make good garbage bags for barn trash.

� Old industrial conveyer belts can be cut to fit stall, washrack or trailer mats.

�Vinyl billboard material can be used to provide ultraviolentwaterproof protection for outdoor equipment storage.

� Even an old bathtub can be used as an attractiveplanter.Also, consider checking out local salvage centers

for building supplies. Used RV or mobile hometrusses are just the right size for a storage shed roof.I even knew an old horse farm manager that con-

verted his ex-wife’s van into a smokehouse.Even though many items around the farm can be

easily reused for other purposes, some things likeused horse shoes are more difficult to recycle unlessyou’re a proficient welder or inventive blacksmith.Horse shoes aren’t usually put with the other trash ordumpsters destined for the land fill. Some farriers dorecycle used horse shoes, but many horse farms andtraining centers accumulate a large number of shoesover a period of years.By the time you count labor and a trip to the recy-

cle center, it’s usually not worth the effort for theamount of money paid for scrap steel and aluminum.I once knew a farrier who gave his apprentice ap-proximately 600 pounds of used shoes. The appren-tice decided to sell the scrap steel and buy new barstock for forge practice. He spent most of a day load-ing and hauling the shoes and received a grand totalof $40 and some change.With that thought in mind, the UF/IFAS Marion

County Extension Service along with Ocala Recre-ation and Parks Discovery Center will providehorse farmers with an opportunity to recycle theirused horse shoes. Help set the record for mosthorse shoes recycled. Bring your used shoes toEarthFest/Arbor Day on Saturday, April 28, andenjoy all the activities and live entertainment. Ifyou can’t make it to EarthFest, call the ExtensionService at 352-671-8400.Also, watch for “Lucky U’horse shoe collection sitesaround Marion County. Pro-ceeds will benefit the OcalaFarm Ministry. Since Ocalais “Horse Capital of TheWorld,” we might as well behorse shoe recycling capitaltoo. HCD

Reduce, Reuse,Recycle and Repurpose

by UF/IFAS Marion CountyLivestock AgentMark Shuffitt

PRACTICALLY SPEAKING

One of the first thingsI learned on the farm

was to fix whatneeded to be fixedusing whatever wasavailable on site. Justbecause somethingwas broken didn’t

mean you needed todrive all the way into

town and buy areplacement.

By MICHAEL COMPTON

Thoroughbred racing’s best were honored on Jan. 16 atthe 41st annual EclipseAwards ceremony at the Bev-erlyWilshire Hotel in Beverly Hills, Calif.At the end

of the nearly three-hour event, a female walked away fromthe ceremony with Horse of the Year honors for the thirdconsecutive year as Havre de Grace earned the 2011 title,following in the footsteps of Rachel Alexandra in 2009 andZenyatta in 2010.A winner in 5 of 7 starts in 2011, Havre de Grace earned

more than $1.6 million on the season for Rick Porter’s FoxHill Farms and trainer Larry Jones. She won the AzeriStakes (G3) and the Apple Blossom Stakes (G1) at Oak-lawn Park. She beat the boys in the prestigious WoodwardStakes (G1) at Saratoga over the summer and returned toher division to romp in the Beldame Invitational (G1) in Oc-tober. She concluded her season with a game fourth-placefinish against males in the Breeders’ Cup Classic (G1).In her final race of 2011, she defeated Acclamation at the

polls, receiving 166 first-place votes for Horse of the Year torunner-upAcclamation’s 26 votes.“It is some kind of thrill to win an award I

could only dream about 10 years ago,” saidPorter. “As many of you in this room know,I’ve seen the lows and the highs of this game.Havre de Grace is the highest. There’s noquestion in my mind that she deserves thishonor. I want to thank Larry and Cindy Jonesfor their horsemanship and for making thishappen. I hope we can do it again in 2012.”In addition to her Horse of theYear award, Havre de Grace

was voted champion Older Female as well.“I could talk a long time about all the thrills she gave us

last year,” said Porter. “She gave us, our family, friends and allher fans a lot of excitement. It didn’t take me long to fall inlove with her at the sale. She had an incredible year in 2011.I’m blessed to own her. I will always cherish this award.”The Sunshine State basked in the Eclipse spotlight.

Florida-bred Musical Romance, bred by Ocala Stud and soldat Ocala Breeders’ Sales Co. (OBS), was honored as theEclipse champion Female Sprinter for co-owner and trainerBill Kaplan and Adam Lazarus’ Pinnacle Racing Stable.The daughter of the late stallion Concorde’s Tune sold at

OBS for $22,000. She enjoyed a banner season in 2011,capped off by an emphatic triumph in the Breeders’Cup Filly

Florida-bredMusical Romance

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“I want to thankOcala Stud forbreeding a greathorse and selling

her to us.”—Bill Kaplan

Big Night for FloridaFlorida-bred Musical Romance

(at right) named champion Filly andMare Sprinter; Havre de Grace

is Horse of the Year

andMare Sprint at Churchill Downs.Also numbered amongher scores was a dramatic victory in the rich Presque IsleMasters Stakes (G2) at Presque Isle Downs last September.“This is for all the people in barn 50 at Calder,” said Ka-

plan from the podium. “It’s for all the unsung heroes—thegrooms, exercise riders, blacksmiths and vets. I want tothank Ocala Stud for breeding a great horse and selling herto us. I also want to thank jockey Juan Leyva. This award isproof to the world that a little guy can invest a little andmake it to the top.”Lazarus also took time to acknowledge the founding fa-

ther of Thoroughbred partnerships, Cot Campbell of Dog-wood Stable, who received the Eclipse Award of Meritearlier in the evening.“All of us in this room share common characteristics,” he

said. “Number one, we love this game. Number two, wehave to be gamblers.Without Cot’s idea of creating partner-ships I would not be standing in front of you tonight.”Musical Romance secured 131 first-place votes, com-

fortably turning back runner-up Hilda’s Passion, who re-ceived 53 votes.Champion 3-year-old male, Animal Kingdom, also

boasts Florida ties. The Team Valor International home-bred is a son of Stonewall Farm Ocala stallion Leroidesan-imaux (BRZ), who was Eclipse champion turf horse as a5-year-old in 2005.Animal Kingdom won the Vinery Racing Spiral Stakes

(G3) at Turfway Park and captured the Kentucky Derby (G1)in his initial try over a traditional dirt track. He finished sec-ond in the Preakness Stakes (G1) and was injured in the Bel-mont Stakes (G1). He won the Eclipse by a narrow vote,edging Caleb’s Posse by a vote of 114-111. Mark Polivka ofTeamValor accepted the award.Royal Delta, winner of the Breeders’ Cup Ladies Clas-

sic (G1), was named champion 3-year-old filly. She madeseven starts last year at six different tracks. In addition to tak-ing down top prize in the Ladies Classic, she also won theAl-abama Stakes (G1) and the Black-Eyed Susan Stakes (G2).Following her Breeders’Cup win she was sold for $8.5 mil-lion to Florida’s Besilu Stables of Benjamin Leon.Royal Delta’s trainer, Bill Mott, received the Eclipse

Award as the leading trainer. Mott notched two Breeders’Cup victories. In addition to saddling Royal Delta in theLadies Classic, he lead over Drosselmeyer to win the Breed-ers’ Cup Classic (G1) 24 hours later. It was the third EclipseAward for Mott, who also won it in 1995 and ’96.

Champion 2-year-old coltwent to Hansen. The son ofTapit won the Breeders’ CupJuvenile (G1) in November,beating two other finalists,Union Rags and CreativeCause. Co-owner Dr. KendallHansen accepted the award.Two-year-old filly honors

went to undefeated My Miss

Animal Kingdom

at Eclipse Awards

“As many of you in this room know, I’ve seen the lowsand the highs of this game. Havre de Grace is the highest.”—Rick Porter

Havre de Grace

Animal Kingdom also boasts Floridaties. The Team Valor Internationalhomebred is a son of Stonewall FarmOcala stallion Leroidesanimaux(BRZ), who was Eclipse championturf horse as a 5-year-old in 2005.LA

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Aurelia. Co-owner Barbara Banke, the widow of Jess Jack-son, accepted the award along with George Bolton. MyMissAurelia is named for Bolton’s mother, Aurelia.“Jess loved this sport,” Banke said. “He pulled me in and

hooked me. This is especially sweet for our family. We raisedthis filly and she has always been special to us. Jess named her.”Bolton followed Banke to the microphone and addressed

the gathering.“This is such a tribute to Jess,” he said. “Shewas a star as a 2-

year-old in training in Ocala. It’s rare to have a horse go the gate

four times and get better each time.This is special. Thank you.”Male Turf Horse went to Cape Blanco. Perfect in three

U.S. starts in 2001, Cape Blanco won the Man o’War Stakes,the Arlington Million and the Joe Hirsch Turf Classic Invi-tational, all Grade 1 events for Mrs. Fitri Hay, Derrick Smith,Susan Magnier and Michael Tabor.Stacelita (FR) earned Female Turf Horse honors for owner

Martin Schwartz. Trained by Chad Brown, Stacelita capturedthe Beverly D. Stakes (G1) and won 10 of 18 lifetime racesbefore being retired at season’s end.“It’s been a special experience to share this with my fam-

ily,” said Schwartz. “She is a beautiful racehorse who took uson a magical carpet ride. She won six Grade 1 races in hercareer. She is one of a select few to have won Grade 1 racesin three consecutive years.”Male Sprinter went toAmazombie, winner of the Breeders’

Cup Sprint (G1). The California-bred runner is a son of for-mer Florida sire NorthernAfleet. He won four graded stakesin 2011, including the Ancient Title Stakes (G1) at Santa

Anita. Trainer and co-owner Bill Spawr accepted the award.Fellow Cal-bredAcclamation took home honors for cham-

pion Older Male. The son of Unusual Heat reeled off fivestraight wins during the season, culminating with a win inthe Pacific Classic (G1) at Del Mar.“After 55 years in the business, this is pretty great,” said

Old English Rancho’s Bud Johnston. “This is a family busi-ness for us. My father started the business in 1938. It’s beena family affair for many, many years. This is an exciting mo-ment. The greatest part of this business is the people.”Nineteen-year-old Kyle Frey was named champion Ap-

prentice Rider. Ramon Dominguez was named championJockey for the second consecutive year.

Outstanding Breeder for the 8th time and7th time in the last eight years was FrankStronach’s Adena Springs Farm. AdenaSprings-bred runners won 455 races in2011 and earned $14.6 million.Owner of the year went to Ken and

Sarah Ramsey. The Ramseys won theaward in 2004.Rapid Redux received a special Eclipse

Award for his record-setting on the race-track. In winning his 19th race of the yearon Dec. 13, he equaled Citation’s all-timerecord. On Jan. 4 of this year he extendedhis remarkable win streak to 22 straight

with a victory at Laurel. Owner Robert Cole accepted theaward.“I claimed him for $6,250,” Cole said. “I turned him over

to trainer David Wells and he turned him into a pricelesshorse. David and Rapid Redux were perfect in 2011.”The Eclipse Awards are voted on by Daily Racing Form,

the National TurfWriters and Broadcasters and the NationalThoroughbred Racing Association. HCD

EclipseAWARDS

Royal Delta, winner of the Breeders’ CupLadies Classic (G1), was named champion 3-year-old filly.

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Royal Delta (at top)and My Miss Aurelia

(below)

“This is such atribute to Jess. Shewas a star as a

2-year-old in trainingin Ocala. It’s rare tohave a horse go thegate four times andget better each

time.”—George Bolton

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Sullivan GMC Truck signson as the Official Vehicle ofHITS Ocala and title GrandPrix sponsorHITS is proud

to announce thatSullivan BuickGMC of Ocala isthe new title sponsor of the $100,000 GrandPrix at the HITS Ocala Winter Circuit. Thehighly-anticipated class has been the season fi-

nale of the circuit since 1999 and has includedwinners such as Tracy Fenney, Kent Farring-ton, Laura Linback,AaronVale and Ian Silitch.HITS’ Post Time Farm in Ocala will have a

select inventory of vehicles from SullivanBuick GMC on site, giving exhibitors an up-close look at the best Sullivan Buick GMC hasto offer. For those interested in a test drive ormore of their extensive inventory, SullivanBuick GMC is conveniently located at 4000SWCollege Rd. (Hwy. 200) and welcomes allHITS patrons.

12th Annual Horses forHospice Trail RideHospice of Marion County, Inc. will hold its

12th Annual “Horses for Hospice” Trail RideSat., Feb. 18, on the Central Florida Greenwayat the Florida Horse Park in Ocala.Registration begins at 8 a.m. and the first

ride leaves at 9:15 a.m.Riders travel from as far as Jacksonville

and Tampa to spend two to three hours onthe trail.Following the ride, participants can enjoy

lunch by Tommy’s BBQ, live entertainmentby Bordertown, and door prizes.Proceeds from this event will benefit Pa-

tient Care Programs. The minimum dona-tion to ride is $30. Wagons are welcome;$30 for driver and $10 per passenger.

Horse lovers who are unable to ride maypurchase a $10 ticket to enjoy lunch andentertainment. For more information or toregister, call 352-854-5218 or visit theHospice of Marion County website atwww.hospiceofmarion.com.

USEF AcceptingNominations for OpenInternational At-LargeSeat on Board of DirectorsThere is currently a vacant International

At-Large Director seat on the United StatesEquestrian Federation’s Board of Directors.Nominations for this seat are currently openthrough Jan. 31. In order to be eligible fornomination, an individualmust have international expe-rience, which means one whodemonstrates an understand-ing of and embraces the crit-ical importance of theFederation’s role in international sport.Please see USEF Bylaw 331 for more infor-mation regarding eligibility:ht tp: / /www.usef .org/documents/rule-Book/2011/02-bylaws.pdf.The nominee should include a narrative

describing his/her international experienceand how their participation on the USEFBoard would benefit the organization.Please send nominations to the USEF of-

fices to the attention of Georgie Green,

Helmet Awareness Campaign Recog-nized for Efforts to Educate Equestrianson Helmet SafetyThe popular helmet awareness campaign

Riders4Helmets has been recognized fortheir efforts to educate equestrians on hel-met safety, by reaching the finals of the2012 PagePlay Equestrian Social MediaAwards (EMSA’s). The campaign wasfounded as a result of U.S. OlympianCourtney King-Dye’s accident and aims toeducate equestrians on the benefits ofwearing a properly fitted and secured, cer-tified helmet. The Riders4Helmets websiteattracted over 90,000 unique visitors from40 countries in 2011 alone. The final vot-ing stage for the EMSA Awards is nowopen and Riders4Helmets is seeking yourvote in order to further spread the word of

the campaign on a global level.Since founding the campaign in March

2010, Riders4Helmets has hosted threesafety symposia and two InternationalHelmet Awareness Days. The most recentsymposium was streamed live, with visi-tors from around the globe tuning in tolisten to the informative speaker presen-tations. International Helmet AwarenessDay 2011 attracted support from over 500retailers globally, who sought to educatetheir customers on all aspects of helmetsafety.“We are extremely honored to have

been voted through to the finals of the2012 EMSA Awards, especially in suchprestigious company,” said LyndseyWhite, co-founder Riders4Helmets. “Weare grateful to all of our followers whocontinue to spread the message of helmetsafety and are especially appreciative ofsupport from Courtney King-Dye. Ratherthan allowing her accident to be labelled atragedy, King-Dye was a catalyst for aglobal movement in helmet wearing.”

To vote for Riders4Helmets who are afinalist in category 13, “Most Informa-tive” of the EMSA’s, please visitwww.equestriansocialmediaawards.com/voting. For more information on theRiders4Helmets campaign, visitwww.riders4helmets.com. You can alsofollow the campaign atwww.facebook.com/riders4helmets andhttp://twitter.com/riders4helmets.

Riders4Helmets nominated as finalist for2012 equestrian social media award

Chair, USEF Nominating Committee atboardnominations@usef.org. The Nominat-ing Committee will meet and select its nom-inee by Feb. 17. A special Board Meetingwill be noticed for the week of March 19 forthe purpose of conducting this election. Thismeeting will be held telephonically andnominations from the floor will be acceptedon the call.

USEF Executive Director Lori Rawls is thestaff liaison to the Nominating Committee;please feel free to contact her with any ques-tions at lrawls@usef.org.

Applications Now Acceptedfor Free Vaccines throughUnwanted Horse VeterinaryRelief CampaignEquine rescue and retirement facilities are

invited to apply for free vaccines throughthe Unwanted Horse Veterinary Relief Cam-paign (UHVRC), a program sponsored bythe American Association of Equine Practi-

tioners and Merck AnimalHealth. The deadline forapplications for spring vac-cines is Feb. 1.The campaign, which was

established in 2008, providesfree equine vaccines to res-

cue and retirement facilities in the UnitedStates. To date, more than 15,000 horses havebeen vaccinated through the program.

Qualifying facilities are provided with vac-cines to protect against eastern equine en-cephalomyelitis (EEE), western equineencephalomyelitis (WEE), rabies and tetanus,as well as equine influenza and equine her-pesvirus. To qualify for donated vaccines, fa-cilities must have 501(c) (3) tax-exempt statusand abide by the AAEP Care Guidelines forEquine Rescue and Retirement Facilities. Res-cue and retirement facilities are required towork with an AAEP-member veterinarianwhen applying for vaccinations.

For more information, or to download anapplication, visit www.uhvrc.org. Forquestions regarding the applicationprocess, contact Dana Kirkland in theAAEP office at (800) 443-0177 ordkirkland@aaep.org.

USEF names Horses ofthe Year and Equestrianof the YearTo cap off a record-setting year, dressage su-

perstar Steffen Peters addedone more record to his résuméJan. 14 at the United StatesEquestrian Federation’s Pega-susAwards dinner. He becamethe first person to score theUSEF’s Equestrian of theYear title three times.Peters (San Diego, Calif.) won the top honor

in 2008 and 2009 based largely on his accom-plishments with Akiko Yamazaki’s phenom

SmartPak Releases Top TenHorse Names for 2011Got a “Buddy” in your barn? You’re not

alone!SmartPak, the nation’s leading equine on-

line and catalog retailer, and creator of thepatented SmartPak™ supplement feedingsystem, has released the Top 10 List of themost popular horse names for 2011.Leading this year’s list is “Buddy,” which

regained the first-place position it owned in2009, bouncing back from a ninth-place fin-ish in 2010. Rounding out the top three are re-turning champions “Jack” and “Max.”TheTop 10List is drawn from themore than

50,000 horses that are fed their supplements inSmartPaks each day. Custom-packed to meetthe needs of each horse, every daily doseSmartPak is labeled with that horse’s name –making feedingmistakes virtually impossible,and giving the company unique insight intonaming trends among well-cared for horses.There are no newcomers to the Top 10 List

this year, as the seventh through 10th placenames have each appeared in the list at leastonce before. However, “Rocky” and “Cody”stand out as perennial favorites, with seven ap-pearances each since 2001, the first year sup-plements became available in daily doseSmartPaks.Standouts not making the Top 10 List for

2011, but deserving recognition for theiruniqueness are “Terrorizer,” “Sweet Corn-flake,” and “DivasWear Prada.”

SmartPak’s Top Ten Most Popular HorseNames for 2011:

1. Buddy 6. Bella2. Jack 7. Chance3. Max 8. Blue4. Rocky 9. Teddy5. Beau 10. Cody“As riders ourselves, we look forward to

the Top 10 List every year,” said Colby Bal-azs, SmartPak’sVice President of Marketing.“It’s a great feeling knowing that these arereal horses that we’re making a difference forevery day. Plus it’s always fun to see if ourown horses’ names made the list.”

To start ordering SmartPaks for your horse(and join the Class of 2012 horse names)head to SmartPak.com or call1-800-461-8898 today! To check out theTop 100 List, visit SmartPak.com/Top100.

Ravel – but in 2011, Ravel had some help. Pe-ters capitalized on his first trip to the PanAmerican Games and scored Team and Indi-vidual Gold in a tremendous effort with Jenand Bruce Hlavacek’s Weltino’s Magic. FromCalifornia toAachen, Germany Peters was un-defeated in 2011 with the now 9-year-oldWestphalian gelding.Both Ravel and ‘Magic’ scored at the

2011 Collecting Gaits Farm/USEF NationalDressage Championships in Gladstone, N.J.in September sweeping the Grand Prix andIntermediaire I divisions respectively. Peterswon all six classes in the effort and securedhis Pan Am spot with Magic in the process.The trip to Mexico proved worth the

miles as Peters and Magic dominated at theGuadalajara Country Club. Peters also wonthe William C. Steinkraus Trophy, awardedto an equestrian in an Olympic discipline,for the third time. As a result, he was oneof six equestrians in the running for theUSEF’s top honor.The Becky Grand HartTrophy was presented

to Four-In-Hand Driver Chester Weber. TheBecky Grand HartTrophy is presented to inter-national-level non-Olympic athletes.Weber hada banner year with his team, winning fourCDEs in the in the United States. He took histeam to Europe and won at CAIO Veces, CAIAltenfelden and CAIORiesenbeck. He was the

Reserve USEF National Four-in-Hand DrivingChampion. Chester also spent a significantamount of time serving as a chef d’equipe. Hecommandeered a Bronze-medal winning per-formance at the 2011 FEI World Pony TeamChampionships and a 10th-place U.S. Teamfinish at the FEIWorld Pair Championship.Also, for the first time, the USEF

crowned two horses with its highest honor,one from an International Discipline andone from a National Discipline.

Neville Bardos and Sjoerd were named2011 Horses of theYear at the USEF annualHorse of the Year celebration Jan. 13. Hon-ored for their accomplishments in 2011 theirroads through the last 12 months, while bothexceptional, have been very different.Trapped in a burning barn for 45 minutes,

Neville Bardos made a miraculous recoveryfrom injuries sustained in a fire that claimedthe lives of six other horses at his rider BoydMartin’s barn in West Grove, Pa. The now13-year-old Australian Thoroughbred geld-ing won the USEF National CCI3* champi-onship in 2009 and was 10th at the 2010Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games –leading the U.S. effort.Neville defied the odds and made a mira-

cle trip to the Land Rover Burghley HorseTrials in England in September. He rocketedaround the cross-country course clean and

fast and finished seventh at the world’stoughest CCI4*. In 2011, he was also secondat the Red Hills Horse Trials in the CIC3*(inMarch), and fourth in the Advanced at theMillbrook Horse Trials in August.Sjoerd’s year on the National circuit was

one of insurmountable success. Xena Vimer-cati’s Friesian stallion won and won and won.He transcended divisions, riders and classes.He was honored for his confirmation andpresence in the ring and with his panache andpersonality he garnered fans everywhere hewent. He was undefeated in 2011 in the Hal-ter division. Sjoerd was named World orGrand National Champion 14 times in 2011.He also added four World/Grand NationalReserve Champion titles to his list.Four other horses were named Horses of

Honor, including Starr Light (Arabian),CHThe Daily Lottery (Saddlebred),Weltino’s Magic (Dressage) and CoralReef Via Volo (Jumping).

James C. Wofford (Upperville, Va.) col-lected Lifetime Achievement accolades infront of legions of his fans. A lifelong ser-vant and student of the sport he was a mul-tiple medal-winning eventing rider, coach,trainer, author, AHSA president, adminis-trator, broadcaster…and legend.

For a complete list of winners go towww.usef.org.

If you’re returning to Ocala for another winter show sea-son, you’re probably familiar with the horses of the 2001Horse Fever public art project – many of which can still

be seen around town – but you may not know we got a wholenew crop at the end of last year.Horse Fever’s 10th anniversary herd of 27 horses trot-

ted into place all around Ocala in September 2011. Thecollection of life-sized fancifully painted horses, pre-sented by Marion Cultural Alliance and sponsored by theFlorida Thoroughbred Breeders’ and Owners’ Associa-tion (FTBOA), will be on display at various locationsuntil March.On March 23, the horses will be rounded up and sold at

auction during the Live Oak International Combined Driv-ing Event at Live Oak Plantation.The lead horse in the herd is FTBOA-sponsored

“World Champ” painted by Sharon Crute, whoalso painted “Champ,” the prototypein the original project.

Each horse is created by a local artist and is paid for by acorporate or private sponsor who chooses the location. Apanel of art professionals, which was assembled by Dr. LeslieHammond at the Appleton Museum of Art, chose the port-folio of designs from more than 200 artists’ submissions.Total proceeds from the auction of the 2001 herd of

horses were shared between Marion Cultural Alliance(MCA) and the buyer’s charity of choice. In the years since,MCA has continued to work to fund the arts, with more than$250,000 in grants and scholarships awarded to the localarts community above and beyond the endowment funds.Following are the 10th anniversary horses and their loca-

tions. More information about each horse, images, and an in-teractive map can be found online at Ocala.com/horsefever.

Horse Fever Celebrates its 10th Anniversary With

A New Herd

1) “Brick City” by Margaret WattsSponsor: E.L. FosterLocation: Downtown Square

2) “Freedom Is Not Free”by Linda Happel ZyskoSponsor: Foxfire RealtyLocation: 615 E Silver Springs Blvd.

3) “Race Day” by Kimberly SamsonSponsor: Ocala TraditionsLocation: Ocala Traditions,405 E Silver Springs Blvd.

4) “Inspiration” by Mary VerrandeauxSponsor: On Top of the WorldLocation: Circle Square Commons,8395 SW 80th St - 80th Ave.

5) “TenYears From Above” by Kent WeakleySponsor: Benefit AdvisorsLocation: 1724 SE 17th Ave.

6) “Quarter Horse” by Gene HotalingSponsor: Live Oak FoundationLocation: Downtown Square

7) “Urban Art” by Kayleb HigginsSponsor: Jenkins HyundaiLocation: 1602 SW College Rd.

8) “Horseplay” by Sally Ann LyleSponsor: Fran MarinoLocation: 2600 SW 42nd St.

9) “The Forest King” by David D’AlessandrisSponsor: Angie Lewis - State FarmLocation: 1122 NE 36th Ave.

10) “Hubble Horse” by Kelli Money HuffSponsor: Georgia Floors DirectLocation: 1420 SW 17th St.

11) “Cuddly” by Paul WareSponsor: Arnette HouseLocation: First Avenue Bank,910 SW 1st Ave.

12) “Sunny” by Carlynne HershbergerSponsor: Peterson & Smith EquineHospitalLocation: 4747 SW 60th Ave.

13) “Iris” by Jay RosenSponsor: Ocala EyeLocation: 1500 SE Magnolia Ext.

14) “Mask~Herd~rade” by Lisa RussoSponsor: Ocala Breeders’ Sales Co.Location: 1701 SW 60th Ave.

15) “Clockwork Fury” by Mark HershbergerSponsor: The Ocala SanctuaryLocation: 5590 NW Hwy. 225

16) “Luce Dipinto” by Kent WeakleySponsor: Great American InsuranceLocation: Ocala Star Banner,2121 SW 19th Ave. Rd.

17) “Horse Feathers”by Jacquelyn Modesitt SchindehetteSponsor: Ocala StudLocation: 4400 SW 27th Ave.

18) “Wild Abandon” by Brynn BarnettSponsor: Lifestyle Solutions Medical SpaLocation: 2139-B NE 2nd St.

19) “Ocala Luna” by Diane CahalSponsor: Hilton of OcalaLocation: 3600 SW 36th Ave.

20) “Passing Through” by Celeste StadlerSponsor: 12th Street GangLocation: 1230 SE 12th St.

21) “Event Full” by Linda Ballantine BrownSponsor: College of Central FloridaLocation: Webber Center,3001 SW College Rd.

22) “Broken Beauty” by Stephanie GieraSponsor: Renstar Medical ResearchLocation: ihmc, 15 SE Osceola Ave.

23) “Parrot~dise” by Barbara PorzioSponsor: Latinos y MasLocation: 2030 South Pine Ave.

24) “Wild Fire” by Nancy IhaszSponsor: GoldMark FarmLocation: 5290 NW 130th Ave.

25) “Mistaken Identity” by Gary BorseSponsor: Robert BoissoneaultOncology InstituteLocation: 2020 SE 17th St.

26) “Celebration” by John BreenSponsor: Marion Cultural AllianceLocation: 23 SW Broadway St.

27) “World Champ” by Sharon CruteSponsor: FTBOALocation: Florida ThoroughbredBreeders’ & Owners’Association801 SW 60th Ave.

World ChampSponsored by Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ and Owners’ AssociationPainted by Sharon Crute

JANUARYJanuary 21-22: New Smyrna Beach – Central FloridaArabian Winter Classic at Silver Sands Arena. Con-tact Cheryl Van Deusen 386-566-4820 orwww.companionarabians.com

January 21-22: Miami – Miami Winter Festival PasoFino Show at Tropical Park. Contact Martha Bourne-Sarmiento 305-216-3765 or www.floridapfha.org

January 22: Morriston – Galloping Green ThumbsGardening Club, 1 p.m. Amik Run Equestrian Cen-ter, (352) 528-5298, amikrunfl@aol.com

January 22: Morriston – Ladies Dressage, group ridewith Master Trainer Laurie L.Wolf, 1 p.m. Amik RunEquestrian Center, (352) 528-5298,amikrunfl@aol.com

January 23: Bronson – The Great Adventure DrillTeam meeting. 6:30 – 8 p.m. DawnWarsing 352-486-2599 or rthoma14@bellesouth.net

January 23: N. Ft. Myers – Southern Stars Yth. Mtd.Drill Team practice at 6:30 p.m. Riders 6-18 wel-come. Contact: 239/454-4395

January 23:Williston – Puttin On the Bitz Drill TeamPractice. Contact LindaWoulf 529-0641 orwww.willistonhorsemans.com

January 24: Ocklawaha – Barrel Practice, M/C Arena(Moss Bluff) 352/288-6950

January 24: Morriston – Saddle Singers MountedSinging Drill Team Practice, 6 p.m. Amik RunEquestrian Center, (352) 528-5298,amikrunfl@aol.com

January 24:Williston –Williston Horseman’s Associa-tion Junior Horseman at 6 p.m. Visit www.williston-horsemans.com for more information

January 24:Williston –Williston Horseman’s Associa-tion Junior Drill Team at 8 p.m. Visit www.williston-horsemans.com for more information

January 24:Wellington – USEF Rated EquitationShow at the Ridge at Wellington. Contact Nona Gar-son 908-839-3859 or www.theridgefarm.com

January 25-29:Wellington –WEF 3 at the PalmBeach International Equestrian Center. ContactDavid Burton, Jr. 561-793-5867 or www.equestri-ansport.com

January 25-29: Green Cove Springs – JacksonvilleWinter A to Z at the Clay County Agricultural Centerand Fairgrounds. Contact Alexis Newman 904-993-2053 or www.nfhja.com

January 25-29:West Palm Beach –Wellington Clas-sic Sunshine Challenge/World Dressage Masters 5*Palm Beach at the Jim Brandon Equestrian Center.Contact Noreen O’Sullivan 561-227-1570 orwww.wellingtonclassicdressage.com

January 25-29: Pensacola – Pensacola Winter FinaleIII at the Escambia County Equestrian Center. Con-tact Bob Bell 843-768-5503 or www.classiccom-pany.com

January 26: N. Ft. Myers – Southern Stars Yth. Mtd.Drill Team practice at 6 p.m. Riders 6-18 welcome.Contact: 239/454-4395

January 26-29: Jacksonville – National Team RopingLeague Finals at the Jacksonville Equestrian Center.Visit www.ntrlinc.com or www.jaxevents.com formore information

January 27: Ocklawaha – M/C Arena Exhib. 7 p.m.,show 8:30 p.m. 352/288-6950,msmiss3@mpinet.net

January 27:Williston – Florida Outlaw MountedShooting Practice. Contact LindaWoulf 529-0641or www.willistonhorsemans.com

January 27-28: Canal Point – Dupuis Piney Pig En-durance Ride. Contact Megan Savory 772-288-4901 or pineypig@yahoo.com

January 27-29: Altoona – Rocking Horse Winter IHorse Trials at Rocking Horse Stables. ContactJeanne Merrill 352-669-9982 or www.rocking-horseht.com

January 28: Morriston – British Riding School, youthgroup ride and mounted games with BHS certifiedinstructor Adam Gonzales. 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. AmikRun Equestrian Center, (352) 528-5298,amikrunfl@aol.com

January 28: Morriston – Equestrian Spirits 4H HorseClub, 2 p.m. Amik Run Equestrian Center, (352)528-5298, amikrunfl@aol.com

January 28: Live Oak – Saddle and Spurs Riding ClubSpeed Events at Suwannee County Coliseum. Call:Mike Estrella 386/208-8013 or Mary Gerhouser386/364-6551

January 28: Gilchrist Riding Club, FFA Alumni RodeoArena Show at 9 a.m. 352/542-8939 or 352/463-1100

January 28: Ocala – Florida Horse Sale at the South-eastern Livestock Pavilion. Contact Pat Sanders352-544-0170

January 28: Bushnell – SEC Open Show at theSumter Equestrian Center. Contact Colleen Martin352-303-4325 orwww.sumterequestriancenter.com

January 28: Jacksonville – NBHA Barrel Race atRainbow Riders at 1p.m. Contact Paul Stanley 904-879-6023

January 28: Dade City – NBHA Barrel Race at DoubleR Farm at noon. Contact Dennis Rogers 813-241-5930

January 28-29: Apopka – Snowbird’s Paradise Showin Orlando at the Clarcona Horse Park. ContactGayle Witty 352-357-9696 or www.orlandodres-sage.com

January 28-29: Ocala – Florida Reining Horse Associ-ation Clinic at the Ocala Equestrian Complex. Visitwww.ocalaequestriancomplex.com for more infor-mation

January 28-29:Weirsdale – A Day of Clinics at theGrand Oaks Resort. Visit www.thegrandoaks.comfor more information

January 28-29: Tampa – PCHA Horse Show at theBob Thomas Equestrian Center. Visitwww.bobthomasequestriancenter.com for more in-formation

January 29: Morriston – Galloping Green ThumbsGardening Club, 1 p.m. Amik Run Equestrian Cen-ter, (352) 528-5298, amikrunfl@aol.com

January 29: Morriston – Ladies Dressage, group ridewith Master Trainer Laurie L.Wolf, 1 p.m. Amik RunEquestrian Center, (352) 528-5298,amikrunfl@aol.com

January 29: Bushnell – IHSA Show at the SumterEquestrian Center. Contact Colleen Martin 352-303-4325 or www.sumterequestriancenter.com

EventsCalendar January/February 2012

Ongoing:

Royal Riding Academy Assn. 352/463-0047

Inverness – Parelli Study Group. Contact: TrinaRomeo. 352/341-1774

Hillsborough and North Manatee Counties –Guided trail rides on State Park trails. “LittleManatee River Riders” by reservation only.813/642-0431.

Panama City – Bay County Horseman’s Assoc.monthly trail rides, meetings. 850/596-2545or www.baycountyhorseman.org

Marion County Horseman’s Association2nd Thursday of each month. Marion CountyHorseman’s Association meeting 7 p.m. atMarion County Agriculture Center (SE Live-stock Pavilion). Contact Sandy Brown352/358-9840.

Millwood Polo ClubEvery Saturday practice games. Spectatorsand polo players are welcome. Call Debbie352/591-3162 for scheduled game times orpolo and/or riding lessons.

HORSECAPITALDIGE S T

EventsCalendarJanuary 30: Bronson – The Great Adventure DrillTeam meeting. 6:30 – 8 p.m.. DawnWarsing 352-486-2599 or rthoma14@bellesouth.net

January 30: N. Ft. Myers – Southern Stars Yth. Mtd.Drill Team practice at 6:30 p.m. Riders 6-18 wel-come. Contact: 239/454-4395

January 30:Williston – Puttin On the Bitz Drill TeamPractice. Contact LindaWoulf 529-0641 orwww.willistonhorsemans.com

January 31: Ocklawaha – Barrel Practice, M/C Arena(Moss Bluff) 352/288-6950

January 31: Morriston – Saddle Singers MountedSinging Drill Team Practice, 6 p.m. Amik RunEquestrian Center, (352) 528-5298,amikrunfl@aol.com

January 31:Wellington – USEF Rated EquitationShow at The Ridge at Wellington. Contact Nona Gar-son 908-839-3859 or www.theridgefarm.com

January 31: Newberry – Fantazia Circus at Canter-bury Showplace. Visitwww.canterburyshowplace.com for more information

January 31-February 5: Ocala – Ocala Premiere atHITS Post Time Farm. Contact Thomas Struzzieri845-246-8833 or www.hitsshows.com

FEBRUARYFebruary 1-5:Wellington –WEF 4 at the Palm BeachInternational Equestrian Center. Contact David Bur-ton 561-793-5867 or www.equestriansport.com

February 2: N. Ft. Myers – Southern Stars Yth. Mtd.Drill Team practice at 6 p.m. Riders 6-18 welcome.Contact: 239/454-4395

February 2: Altoona – Altoona Trail Riders meetings at7p.m. Contact: Sue Rogers at 352/669-1048

February 2: Tavares – Lake Co. Horsemen’s Assoc.meets at 7 p.m. at the Bragg Center. Contact: DawnCobb 352/516-9226 or DQH@aol.com

February 2: Madison County Trail Riders. 850/973-6054

February 2: Apopka – Black Stallion Literacy Projectat the Clarcona Horse Park. Contact 407-886-6255for more information

February 2-4: Ocala – Bureau of Land ManagementMustang Sale at the Ocala Equestrian Complex.Visit www.ocalaequestriancomplex.com for moreinformation

February 2-5:Wellington –Wellington DressageShow. Contact Lloyd Landkamer 612-290-8523 orwww.dressageshowinfo.com

February 2-5: Ocala – Sunshine State CombinedDriving Event. Contact Susan Gilliland 813-677-3040 or s_gilliland@email.msn.com

February 3: Morriston – Poetry in the Paddocks OpenMic Poetry, 7 p.m. Amik Run Equestrian Center,(352) 528-5298, amikrunfl@aol.com

February 3: Ocklawaha – M/C Arena Exhib. 7 p.m.,show 8:30 p.m.. 352/288-6950,msmiss3@mpinet.net

February 3-4: Apopka – Fox Cry Horse Show at theClarcona Horse Park. Contact 407-886-6255 formore information

February 3-5: Newberry – The Jubilee of Breeds atCanterbury Showplace. Contact Carlie Evans 352-215-0710 or www.canterburyshowplace.com

February 3-5: Tampa – AQHA Horse Show at the BobThomas Equestrian Center. Visit www.bobthomase-questriancenter.com for more information

February 4: Morriston – British Riding School, youthgroup ride and mounted games with BHS certifiedinstructor Adam Gonzales. 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. AmikRun Equestrian Center, (352) 528-5298,amikrunfl@aol.com

February 4: Morriston – Equestrian Spirits 4H HorseClub, 2 p.m. Amik Run Equestrian Center, (352)528-5298, amikrunfl@aol.com

February 4: Davie – Florida Association of AmateurCowboys, Inc. JACKPOT TEAM PENNING Entry fees$120 per team, 40% pay back, all fresh cattle, signup book will open 2 p.m. sharp, first run 4 p.m.sharp. Contact Triple Cross Ranch, 1300 SouthFlamingo Road, Davie, FL, 954/434-221

February 4: Hamilton Co. Riding Club 2 fun games &cloverleaf. Meeting at 1 p.m., games at 2 p.m. JanKinsey 229/247-8303

February 4: Punta Gorda Horseman’s Assn. Perform-ance & H/J Shows at Carmelita Park. Contact: Per-formance 239/825-4533, Speed 941/639-4278,www.thepgha.homestead.com

February 4: Tallahassee – Leon Co. Horsemen’s Assn.shows. 850/576-LCHA (5241)

February 4: Plant City – Turkey Creek Arena OpenSpeed Show. 813/737-1312

February 4: Gilchrist Riding Club, FFA Alumni RodeoArena Hwy 129. Speed Show Point Series at 9 a.m.352/542-8939 or 352/463-1100

February 4: Leon County Horsemen’s Association –Judging starts at 10:00 Halter, Gaited, English,WP,$4.00 members $5.00 non-members $30 jackpotfor English Pleasure andWestern Pleasure classes.Speed starts at 5 p.m. Poles, cones, texas barrels,clover leaf barrels, arena race. $75 added 3-D bar-rels. 188 Horseman’s Association Road, TallahasseeFlorida, Dad Sadberry, President, 850/576-9296

February 4: Baker County Horsemanship Association– rides at 7 p.m. – located off Hwy 121, Macclenny,FL at Baker County Fairgrounds; Point series ongo-ing on arena games with high point prizes, Ride allgames $3.00. Members wishing to participate withno points added ride free. Family membership dues$24/yr/family. Club offers arena events, trail rides,future NBHA shows planned, member discounts onclub sponsored shows, youth mentor

February 4: Bushnell – Open Clinic Day at the SumterEquestrian Center. Contact Colleen Martin 352-303-4325 or www.sumterequestriancenter.com

February 4: Altoona – Dressage, Stadium & CashbackJumpers Schooling Show at Rocking Horse Stables.Visit www.rockinghorseht.com

February 4: Starke – NBHA Barrel Race at BradfordCounty Riding Club at noon. Contact Paul Stanley904-879-6023

February 4: Branford – NBHA Barrel Race at Suwan-nee River Riding Club at 12:30 p.m. Contact BeckieLewis 352-538-4433

February 4: Lake Helen –West Volusia Saddle ClubSpeed Show at the Lake Helen Equestrian Facility.Visit www.westvolusiasaddleclub.com for more in-formation

February 4: Plantation – Plantation Acres Saddle ClubHorse Show at Plantation Equestrian Center. Visitwww.pasaddleclub.com for more information

February 4-5: Venice – American Dressage ConcoursI and II at Fox Lea Farm. Contact Kimberly Aldrich941-480-1100 or www.foxleafarm.com

February 4-5:Wellington – Hunter Equitation (4th)and Jumper (5th) Schooling Shows at The Ridge atWellington. Visit www.theridgefarm.com for moreinformation

February 5: Morriston – Galloping Green Thumbs Gar-dening Club, 1 p.m. Amik Run Equestrian Center,(352) 528-5298, amikrunfl@aol.com

February 5: Morriston – Ladies Dressage, group ridewith Master Trainer Laurie L.Wolf, 1 p.m. Amik RunEquestrian Center, (352) 528-5298,amikrunfl@aol.com

February 5: Lakeland Dressage Assn. meetings. Jen-nifer Tomlinson 863/619-2469

February 5: Bushnell – Youth Show Hosted by SumterCounty 4H at the Sumter Equestrian Center. ContactColleen Martin 352-303-4325 orwww.sumterequestriancenter.com

February 6: Bronson – The Great Adventure Drill Teammeeting. 6:30 – 8 p.m. DawnWarsing 352-486-2599 or rthoma14@bellesouth.net

February 6: N. Ft. Myers – Southern Stars Yth. Mtd.Drill Team practice at 6:30 p.m. Riders 6-18 wel-come. Contact: 239/454-4395

February 6:Williston – Puttin On the Bitz Drill TeamPractice. Contact LindaWoulf 529-0641 orwww.willistonhorsemans.com

February 6: Apopka – Central Florida Dressage gen-eral meeting 6:30 potluck 7 p.m. meeting.352/483-1491

February 6: Riverview – Triple B Riding Club meets atthe Riverview Civic Center. Vicki 813/651-5953 orMary Lou 813/759-8255 or Jim 863/858-3107

EventsCalendarFebruary 6: Morriston – Six Legged Theatre CompanyEquiTheater Rehearsal/Meeting, 6 p.m. Amik RunEquestrian Center, (352) 528-5298,amikrunfl@aol.com

February 7: Ocklawaha – Barrel Practice, M/C Arena(Moss Bluff) 352/288-6950

February 7: Morriston – Saddle Singers MountedSinging Drill Team Practice, 6 p.m. Amik RunEquestrian Center, (352) 528-5298,amikrunfl@aol.com

February 7: The Arredondo Dressage Society352/377-5751 www.arredondodressage.org

February 7:Williston –Williston Horseman’s Associa-tion Membership Meeting at 7 p.m. Visitwww.willistonhorsemans.com for more information

February 7: Zephyrhills – Monthly meeting of Cow-boys for Christ Suncoast Chapter at Village Inn7 p.m. Everyone is welcome.www.cowboyaforchristfl.com

February 7:Williston –Williston Horseman’s Associa-tion Junior Drill Team at 6:30 p.m. Visit www.willis-tonhorsemans.com for more information

February 7:Wellington – USEF Rated Equitation Showat The Ridge at Wellington. Contact Nona Garson908-839-3859 or www.theridgefarm.com

February 7:Weirsdale – Moonlight Ride-In, Trailer-In,and Hayride at The Grand Oaks Resort. Visitwww.thegrandoaks.com for more information

February 7: Apopka – Black Stallion Literacy Projectat the Clarcona Horse Park. Contact 407-886-6255for more information

February 7-12: Ocala – Ocala Winter Classic at HITSPost Time Farm. Contact Thomas Struzzieri 845-246-8833 or www.hitsshows.com

February 8-12:Wellington –WEF 5 at the Palm BeachInternational Equestrian Center. Contact David Bur-ton, Jr. 561-793-5867 orwww.equestriansport.com

February 8-12: Newberry – Equestrian Regatta Week1 at Canterbury Showplace. Visit www.canter-buryshowplace.com for more information

February 9: N. Ft. Myers – Southern Stars Yth. Mtd.Drill Team practice at 6 p.m. Riders 6-18 welcome.Contact: 239/454-4395

February 9: Ft. Myers -The SW Florida Dressage Assn.meeting. Contact: Michelle Gerlach 239/731-5434,email: christozan@aol.com or Missy Johnson863/675-3877 email: sandneedle@worldnet.att.net

February 9: Jupiter – Gold Coast Arabian Horse Clubof FL. meeting. Contact: Nancy Brann 561/746-5418

February 9: Ocala – Marion County Horseman’s Asso-ciation meeting 7 p.m. at Marion County AgricultureCenter (SE Livestock Pavilion). Contact SandyBrown 352/358-9840

February 9-10: Tampa – Draft Horse Show at the BobThomas Equestrian Center. Visit www.bobthomase-questriancenter.com for more information

February 9-12:West Palm Beach –Wellington ClassicSpring Challenge at the Jim Brandon EquestrianCenter. Contact Noreen O’Sullivan 561-227-1570 orwww.wellingtonclassicdressage.com

February 10-12: Ocala –Winter II Horse Trials at theFlorida Horse Park. Visit www.equiventures.com formore information

February 10-19: Kissimmee – Osceola County Fair atthe Osceola Heritage Park. Visit www.ohpark.comfor more information

February 11: Morriston – British Riding School, youthgroup ride and mounted games with BHS certifiedinstructor Adam Gonzales. 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. AmikRun Equestrian Center, (352) 528-5298,amikrunfl@aol.com

February 11: Morriston – Equestrian Spirits 4H HorseClub, 2 p.m. Amik Run Equestrian Center, (352)528-5298, amikrunfl@aol.com

February 11: Punta Gorda Horseman’s Assn. SpeedShows at Carmelita Park. Contact: Gayle Rogers941/637-8097

February 11: South Georgia Trail Riders. 850/973-6054

February 11: Perry – Taylor Co. Horseman’s Assn.Speed Event Shows. Roping Fri. nights beforespeed show. Last Sat./mo Roping. Sign-up 4 p.m.,rope 5 p.m. Contact: 850/584-6876

February 11: Live Oak- Saddle and Spurs Riding ClubSpeed Events at Suwannee County Coliseum. Call:Mike Estrella 386/208-8013 or Mary Gerhouser386/364-6551

February 11:Williston –Williston Horseman’s Associ-ation Saddle Series Speed Show at 9am. Visitwww.willistonhorsemans.com for more information

February 11:Williston –Williston Horseman’s Associ-ation Jackpot Barrels. Visit www.willistonhorse-mans.com for more information

February 11: Ocala – Our Village Market at the FloridaHorse Park. Contact judymg@gmail.com or www.fl-horsepark.com

February 11: Bushnell – Southern Draft Horse Associ-ation Draft Horse Pull at the Sumter EquestrianCenter. Contact Colleen Martin 352-303-4325 orwww.sumterequestriancenter.com

February 11: Brooksville – NBHA Barrel Race at HeadN Heel Ranch at noon. Contact Tammie Rogers813-241-5931

February 11-12: Apopka – Sweetheart Cup at theClarcona Horse Park. Contact Gayle Witty 352-357-9696 or www.orlandodressage.com

February 11-12: Venice – Open Hunter/JumperShows at Fox Lea Farm. Visit www.foxleafarm.comfor more information

February 11-12: Tampa – Paso Fino All Breeds HorseShow at the Bob Thomas Equestrian Center. Visitwww.bobthomasequestriancenter.com for more in-formation

February 11-12: Plantation – Heritage Horse ShowsHorses in the Park at the Plantation Equestrian Cen-ter. Visit www.heritagehorseshow.com for more in-formation

February 12: Morriston – Galloping Green ThumbsGardening Club, 1 p.m. Amik Run Equestrian Cen-ter, (352) 528-5298, amikrunfl@aol.com

February 12: Morriston – Ladies Dressage, group ridewith Master Trainer Laurie L.Wolf, 1 p.m. Amik RunEquestrian Center, (352) 528-5298,amikrunfl@aol.com

February 12: Pasco Co – Suncoast Trail Riders clubmeets at Serenova in Pasco County Highway 52and Hays Road. Contact: John 352/797-0829

February 13: Bronson – The Great Adventure DrillTeam meeting. 6:30 – 8 p.m. DawnWarsing 352-486-2599 or rthoma14@bellesouth.net

February 13: N. Ft. Myers – Southern Stars Yth. Mtd.Drill Team practice at 6:30 p.m. Riders 6-18 wel-come. Contact: 239/454-4395

February 13:Williston – Puttin On the Bitz Drill TeamPractice. Contact LindaWoulf 529-0641 orwww.willistonhorsemans.com

February 13: Morriston – Sunshine Advocates forSound Horsemanship (SASH) Sound Gaited HorseClub Non-Mounted Meeting, 6 p.m. Amik RunEquestrian Center, (352) 528-5298,amikrunfl@aol.com

February 13-17: Tampa – Mounted Police HorseTraining and Competition at the Bob ThomasEquestrian Center. Visit www.bobthomasequestrian-center.com for more information

February 14: Ocklawaha – Barrel Practice, M/C Arena(Moss Bluff) 352/288-6950

February 14: Morriston – Saddle Singers MountedSinging Drill Team Practice, 6 p.m. Amik RunEquestrian Center, (352) 528-5298,amikrunfl@aol.com

February 14: Sarasota – Alpha Dressage Assoc.meeting: Betty Brown 941/378-5581

February 14: Pensacola – Five Flags Arabian HorseAssoc. monthly meeting. 850-995-8562

February 14: Panama City – Bay County Horseman’sAssn. monthly meeting 7 p.m. 850/769-4741 orwww.baycountyhorse.org

February 14:Williston –Williston Horseman’s Associ-ation Junior Horseman at 6 p.m. Visit www.willis-tonhorsemans.com for more information

February 14:Williston –Williston Horseman’s Associ-ation Junior Drill Team at 8 p.m. Visit www.willis-tonhorsemans.com for more information

EventsCalendarFebruary 14:Wellington – USEF Rated EquitationShow at The Ridge at Wellington. Contact Nona Gar-son 908-839-3859 or www.theridgefarm.com

February 14-19: Ocala – Ocala Winter Festival at HITSPost Time Farm. Contact Thomas Struzzieri 845-246-8833 or www.hitsshows.com

February 15: Morriston – Music School Free OpenArena Schooling with DJ, 6 p.m. Amik Run Eques-trian Center, (352) 528-5298, amikrunfl@aol.com

February 15: Ocala – Cross Country Schooling Dayand Jumper Ring Rental at the Florida Horse Park.Contact Partners of the Park 508-612-0224 orwww.flhorsepark.com

February 15-19:Wellington –WEF 6 at the PalmBeach International Equestrian Center. ContactDavid Burton, Jr. 561-793-5867 or www.equestri-ansport.com

February 15-19: Newberry – Equestrian RegattaWeek 2 at Canterbury Showplace. Visit www.can-terburyshowplace.com for more information

February 16: N. Ft. Myers – Southern Stars Yth. Mtd.Drill Team practice at 6 p.m. Riders 6-18 welcome.Contact: 239/454-4395

February 16: Morriston – The Natural Healthy HorseLecture Series, 6 p.m. Amik Run Equestrian Center,(352) 528-5298, amikrunfl@aol.com

February 16: Newberry – Springhill Equine SeniorHorse Seminar at Canterbury Showplace at 7 p.m.Visit www.canterburyshowplace.com for more in-formation

February 16: Tampa – Draft Horse Pulls at the BobThomas Equestrian Center. Visit www.bobthomase-questriancenter.com for more information

February 16: Apopka – Black Stallion Literacy Projectat the Clarcona Horse Park. Contact 407-886-6255for more information

February 16-19:Wellington – Florida Dressage Clas-sic. Contact Lloyd Landkamer 612-290-8523 orwww.dressageshowinfo.com

February 17: Tampa – Miniature Donkey Show at theBob Thomas Equestrian Center. Visitwww.bobthomasequestriancenter.com for more in-formation

February 17-19: Altoona – Rocking Horse Winter IIHorse Trials at Rocking Horse Stables. Contact AliceAndrews 352-669-9982 orwww.rockinghorseht.com

February 17-19:Weirsdale – Grand Oaks ClassicPleasure Driving Competition at The Grand OaksResort. Visit www.thegrandoaks.com for more infor-mation

February 17-19: Apopka – Seminole County 4H Showat the Clarcona Horse Park. Contact 407-886-6255for more information

February 17-19: Kissimmee – 128 Silver SpursRodeo at Silver Spurs Arena. Visit www.ohpark.comfor more information

February 17-28: Ocala – Southeastern Youth Fair andHigh School Rodeo at the Southeastern LivestockPavilion. Contact Denise Deen 352-629-1255

February 18: Morriston – British Riding School, youthgroup ride and mounted games with BHS certifiedinstructor Adam Gonzales. 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. AmikRun Equestrian Center, (352) 528-5298,amikrunfl@aol.com

February 18: Morriston – Equestrian Spirits 4H HorseClub, 2 p.m. Amik Run Equestrian Center, (352)528-5298, amikrunfl@aol.com

February 18: Baker County Horsemanship Association– rides at 7 p.m.—located off Hwy 121, Macclenny,FL at Baker County Fairgrounds; Point series ongo-ing on arena games with high point prizes, Ride allgames $3.00. Members wishing to participate withno points added ride free. Family membership dues$24/yr/family. Club offers arena events, trail rides,future NBHA shows planned, member discounts onclub sponsored shows, youth mentor

February 18: Trail ride 1 p.m. Jan Kinsey 229/247-8303

February 18: Brooksville – The Croom Trail Horse Rid-ers meet at 9 a.m. at “Twin Ponds Trail Head”With-lacoochee Forest. Contact: Becky 352/796-2521,Debbie 352/797-9823

February 18: Hudson – Pasco Horsemen’s Assoc.Show. Contact: 727/868-8011, Pleasure 727/819-9191, Speed 727/379-5578

February 18:Williston –Williston Horseman’s Associ-ation Pleasure Show/Hunter Show. Contact KellySaylor (western) 352-817-0441 or Edd Looking-bill/Rene Dodd (hunter) 352-622-5535 or 352 425-9424 or www.willistonhorsemans.com

February 18: Ocala – Horses for Hospice Trail Ride atthe Florida Horse Park. Contact Hospice of MarionCounty 352-854-5218 orwww.hospiceofmarion.com/news.html

February 18: Jacksonville – Northeast Florida Dres-sage Association Schooling Show at the Jack-sonville Equestrian Center. Visitwww.nfladressage.org for more information

February 18-19: Ocala – The 3rd Annual Equine Chal-lenge Hosted by the Florida Reined Cow Horse As-sociation at the Ocala Equestrian Complex. Visitwww.ocalaequestriancomplex.com for more infor-mation

February 18-19: Bushnell – SEC Hunter, Jumper,Dressage Show at the Sumter Equestrian Center.Contact Colleen Martin 352-303-4325 orwww.sumterequestriancenter.com

February 18-19: Tampa – Miniature Horse Show atthe Bob Thomas Equestrian Center. Visitwww.bobthomasequestriancenter.com for more in-formation

February 18-19: Tampa – Lawnmower Races at theBob Thomas Equestrian Center. Visitwww.bobthomasequestriancenter.com for more in-formation

February 19: Morriston – Galloping Green ThumbsGardening Club, 1 p.m. Amik Run Equestrian Center,(352) 528-5298, amikrunfl@aol.com

February 19: Morriston – Ladies Dressage, group ridewith Master Trainer Laurie L.Wolf, 1 p.m. Amik RunEquestrian Center, (352) 528-5298,amikrunfl@aol.com

February 19: Ocala – STRIDE Dressage Show at theFlorida Horse Park. Contact STRIDE Dressagewww.stridedressage.org or www.flhorsepark.com

EventsCalendarFebruary 19: Lake Helen –West Volusia Saddle Club4D Show at the Lake Helen Equestrian Facility.Visitwww.westvolusiasaddleclub.com for more information

February 20: Bronson – The Great Adventure DrillTeam meeting. 6:30 – 8 p.m. DawnWarsing 352-486-2599 or rthoma14@bellesouth.net

February 20: N. Ft. Myers – Southern Stars Yth. Mtd.Drill Team practice at 6:30 p.m. Riders 6-18 wel-come. Contact: 239/454-4395

February 20:Williston – Puttin On the Bitz Drill TeamPractice. Contact LindaWoulf 529-0641 orwww.willistonhorsemans.com

February 20:Winter Haven – Florida Sport Horse Clubmeeting at St. John’s UMC. Contact: Gene Naasko863/206-5932 or Rae Gayer 863/984-0499

February 21: Ocklawaha – Barrel Practice, M/C Arena(Moss Bluff) 352/288-6950

February 21: Morriston – Saddle Singers MountedSinging Drill Team Practice, 6 p.m. Amik RunEquestrian Center, (352) 528-5298,amikrunfl@aol.com

February 21: Five Flags Arabian Horse Association(FFAHA) meeting at Carnley’s Family Diner on PineForest Road just south of the I-10 intersection at7 p.m. Contact 850/478-2161

February 21:Williston –Williston Horseman’s Associ-ation Junior Drill Team at 6:30p.m.. Visitwww.willistonhorsemans.com for more information

February 21:Williston –Williston Horseman’s 4H at6:30 p.m. Visit www.willistonhorsemans.com formore information

February 21: Ocala – STRIDE Dressage Riding & Driv-ing Club meets at 7 p.m. Contact: Member at LargePolly Butterworth 353-351-2782 www.stridedres-sage.org

February 21:Wellington – USEF Rated EquitationShow at The Ridge at Wellington. Contact Nona Gar-son 908-839-3859 or www.theridgefarm.com

February 21: Jacksonville – Open Schooling in theMain Arena at the Jacksonville Equestrian Center.Visit www.jaxevents.com for more information

February 21: Apopka – Black Stallion Literacy Projectat the Clarcona Horse Park. Contact 407-886-6255for more information

February 21-23:Wellington – GDF National 1. ContactLloyd Landkamer 561-793-5867 or www.equestri-ansport.com

February 21-26: Ocala – Ocala Masters at HITS PostTime Farm. Contact Thomas Struzzieri 845-246-8833 or www.hitsshows.com

February 22-26:Wellington –WEF 7 at the PalmBeach International Equestrian Center. ContactDavid Burton, Jr. 561-793-5867 or www.equestri-ansport.com

February 23: N. Ft. Myers – Southern Stars Yth. Mtd.Drill Team practice at 6 p.m. Riders 6-18 welcome.Contact: 239/454-4395

February 23: Apopka – Black Stallion Literacy Projectat the Clarcona Horse Park. Contact 407-886-6255for more information

February 23-26: Dade City – Little Everglades Inter-national Combined Driving Event. Contact SusanGilliland 324-489-6586 or www.littleever-gladesranch.com

February 23-26: Tampa – Florida Reining Horse Asso-ciation Show at the Bob Thomas Equestrian Center.Visit www.bobthomasequestriancenter.com formore information

February 24: Ocklawaha – M/C Arena Exhib. 7 p.m.,show 8:30 p.m. 352/288-6950,msmiss3@mpinet.net

February 24:Williston – Florida Outlaw MountedShooting Practice. Contact LindaWoulf 529-0641or www.willistonhorsemans.com

February 24-26: Loxahatchee –Welcome Back toWhite Fences I at White Fences Equestrian Center.Contact Adam Pollak 561-790-6406 or www.white-fencesflorida.com

February 24-26: Lady Lake – 2012 Sun Spot ColorClassic at the Lady Lake Equestrian Center. ContactWhizzer Baker 352-302-9128 or www.florida-palomino.com

February 25: Morriston – British Riding School, youthgroup ride and mounted games with BHS certifiedinstructor Adam Gonzales. 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. AmikRun Equestrian Center, (352) 528-5298,amikrunfl@aol.com

February 25: Morriston – Equestrian Spirits 4H HorseClub, 2 p.m. Amik Run Equestrian Center, (352)528-5298, amikrunfl@aol.com

February 25: Live Oak- Saddle and Spurs Riding ClubSpeed Events at Suwannee County Coliseum. Call:Mike Estrella 386/208-8013 or Mary Gerhouser386/364-6551

February 25: Gilchrist Riding Club, FFA Alumni RodeoArena Show at 9 a.m. 352/542-8939 or 352/463-1100

February 25: Bushnell – SEC Open Show at theSumter Equestrian Center. Contact Colleen Martin352-303-4325 orwww.sumterequestriancenter.com

February 25: Apopka – Florida Walking & RackingHorse Show at the Clarcona Horse Park. Contact407-886-6255 for more information

February 25: Orange Park – NBHA Barrel Race at ClayMavericks Saddle Club at 1 p.m. Contact Paul Stan-ley 904-879-6023

February 25-26: Venice – Florida Dressage ConcoursI and II at Fox Lea Farm. Contact Linda Aldrich 941-480-1100 or www.foxleafarm.com

February 25-26: Newberry – Twice as Nice DressageII at Canterbury Showplace. Contact Carlie Evans352-215-0710 or www.canterburyshowplace.com

February 26: Morriston – Galloping Green ThumbsGardening Club, 1 p.m. Amik Run Equestrian Cen-ter, (352) 528-5298, amikrunfl@aol.com

February 26: Morriston – Ladies Dressage, group ridewith Master Trainer Laurie L.Wolf, 1 p.m. Amik RunEquestrian Center, (352) 528-5298,amikrunfl@aol.com

February 27: Bronson – The Great Adventure DrillTeam meeting. 6:30 – 8 p.m. DawnWarsing 352-486-2599 or rthoma14@bellesouth.net

February 27: N. Ft. Myers – Southern Stars Yth. Mtd.Drill Team practice at 6:30 p.m. Riders 6-18 wel-come. Contact: 239/454-4395

February 27:Williston – Puttin On the Bitz Drill TeamPractice. Contact LindaWoulf 529-0641 orwww.willistonhorsemans.com

February 28: Ocklawaha – Barrel Practice, M/C Arena(Moss Bluff) 352/288-6950

February 28: Morriston – Saddle Singers MountedSinging Drill Team Practice, 6 p.m. Amik RunEquestrian Center, (352) 528-5298,amikrunfl@aol.com

February 28:Williston –Williston Horseman’s Associ-ation Junior Horseman at 6 p.m. Visit www.willis-tonhorsemans.com for more information

February 28:Williston –Williston Horseman’s Associ-ation Junior Drill Team at 8 p.m. Visit www.willis-tonhorsemans.com for more information

February 28:Wellington – USEF Rated EquitationShow at The Ridge at Wellington. Contact Nona Gar-son 908-839-3859 or www.theridgefarm.com

February 28: Apopka – Black Stallion Literacy Projectat the Clarcona Horse Park. Contact 407-886-6255for more information

February 28-March 4: Ocala – Ocala Tournament atHITS Post Time Farm. Contact Thomas Struzzieri845-246-8833 or www.hitsshows.com

February 29: Ocala – Cross Country Schooling Dayand Jumper Ring Rental at the Florida Horse Park.Contact Partners of the Park 508-612-0224 orwww.flhorsepark.com

February 29-March 3: American Morgan Horse Asso-ciation National Convention at the Hilton Hotel atthe Walt Disney World Resort. Visit www.fmha.netfor more information

February 29-March 4:Wellington –WEF 8 at the PalmBeach International Equestrian Center. ContactDavid Burton, Jr. 561-793-5867 or www.equestri-ansport.com

February 29-March 4:Williston – FITS EnduranceRide. Contact Gail Ransco 607-368-4011 orspanky@infoblvd.net

(ex•cel•lence) nounthe fact or state of excelling;superiority; distinction;

possessing good qualities in high degree.

Get noticed

For the fifth consecutive year,

Publisher: Richard Hancock • Editor in chief: Michael ComptonBusiness manager: Patrick Vinzant • Art director: John FilerAdministrative assistant: Beverly Kalberkamp

The Florida Horse is the official publication of theFlorida Thoroughbred Breeders’ and Owners’ Associationwww.ftboa.com • www.facebook.com/thefloridahorse

352.732.8858

If you’re reading this column any time after the first week of January, there’s a strongchance that you, like every other mortal in the universe, have already broken a newyear’s resolution or two. It’s a predictable process, one that experts speculate occurs be-cause we set the bar too high and too unrealistically. They’re probably right. In our emo-tional determination to accomplish major change, we tend to visualize radical, quickresults that, realistically, take hard work AND time.But wait! This year – if you resolved to get involved in a new activity, to watch a

new sport, to give back to your community or industry, to volunteer, to explore newplaces or learn a new skill – we have great news.The 500-acre FloridaAgriculture Center and Horse Park, located in south Ocala, offers

family-friendly opportunities for everyone.Want to see something new? Come to the Park and watch a boisterous and enter-

taining Jack Russell Terrier race, or soak in the beauty of a dressage horse performinga high-level test in the show ring. Cheer on cross-countryriders in three-day eventing, or visit the Park for a profes-sional BBQ event.Want to learn something new? Rent a horse from Cactus

Jack’s trail rides, and ride the famous Marjorie Harris CarrCross Florida Greenways. Don’t want to ride a horse? Takea hike—literally—on a foot trail. Come to a clinic at thePark, or swing by the office and we’ll show you the FloridaAgriculture Center and Horse Park Comprehensive MasterPlan – a blueprint for developing the Park into an evenlarger economic driver than it is even today.Want to get involved?The Park has a myriad of volunteer

opportunities, from light office duties and marketing proj-ects to outdoor maintenance and carpentry needs. Volun-teers are needed at horse shows, with parking for largeevents, and so much more. We value your unique gifts, andwe are thrilled when you are able to share them with thisworthy project.Want to invest financially? As a 501 c3 corporation, any

donation to the Florida Agriculture Center and Horse ParkAuthority or the Foundation for the Florida Horse Park is

100% tax deductible. For those interested in large gifts, we have multiple legacy giv-ing opportunities for barns, arenas and other buildings, and we would love to sharemore with you about these opportunities at your convenience.Resolutions, it turns out, can begin any day. I think today is a good day – how

about you?

You make ALL the difference.Sincerely,

ResolutionsFlorida Horse ParkYour

Happy Trails,Connie Duff Wise,Chairman of the BoardFlorida Horse Park