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Horses
 One
can't come to Marion County without becoming aware immediately that this
is the "Horse Capital of the World." The U.S.
Department of Agriculture in early 1999, put its seal of approval on
promotions using that label. The USDA's Census of Agriculture reported
that Marion led all U.S. counties in total number of horses and ponies in
residence in 1997, cut-off year for the five-year census. Furthermore, the
county ranked third nationally (behind two counties
in Kentucky) in total value of horses sold. Horses are big business in
Marion County. Between 45 and 50 different breeds are represented in the
area. Nearly 29,000 residents are employed in the county's Thoroughbred
industry alone.
Florida Thoroughbreds finish first in 20
percent of the foremost stakes races in the U.S. and are counted among
Triple Crown, Breeders' Cup, Belmont Stakes, Preakness and Kentucky Derby
winners. The Thoroughbred industry's economic impact on the state is
considered to be in excess of $1 billion dollars annually, and the
exciting horse sales at the Ocala Breeder's Sales Complex run into the
millions.
In addition, more than 200 farms and training centers are devoted to
breeding, training and showing other breeds such as the Paso Fino,
Missouri Foxtrotter, Arabian, Morgan, miniature horse, quarter horse,
hunter/jumper, and the gentle giants, draft horses. A newly registered
breed, the Gypsy Vanner, makes its home in Marion County. Champions from
all breeds are available for breeding purposes, and bring back top place
prizes from national and international horse shows.
 Each spring the
"Horse Shows in the Sun" (HITS) stages one of the largest hunter/jumper
shows in the United States. The five-week event which is held at grounds
on U.S. 27, northwest of Ocala, draws competitors from across the United
States, Mexico, Canada and Europe. HITS brings the area an estimated $30
million, to Marion County hotels, motels, restaurants, tack and feed
stores.
Many horse farms welcome visitors to tour. Arrangements can be made for
families or groups with just a phone call. A list of farms open to the
public is always available from the Chamber office. Visitors who bring
their own horses can ride forest and greenway trails and may obtain
information about the trailheads and trails from the Chamber.
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