New World Championship Hunter Rider Opportunities at 2024 Winter Spectacular Show Series at World Equestrian Center – Ocala
January 19, 2024 - Ocala, FL
Photo by Andrew Ryback Photography
Photo by Andrew Ryback Photography
Photo by Andrew Ryback Photography
Photo by Andrew Ryback Photography
For the first time, the Winter Spectacular Show Series at World Equestrian Center – Ocala (WEC) will offer World Championship Hunter Rider (WCHR) opportunities. The 2024 circuit, which runs for 12 weeks from January 3 through March 24, will have two weeks of WCHR competition, offering hunter riders at all levels the chance to gain valuable points for year-end awards in this popular United States Hunter Jumper Association (USHJA) program.
WCHR competition will be offered during Week VI on February 7-11 and Week XII on March 20-24. During Week XII, the three weekly hunter derbies will also have increased prize money. Weekly stalls are still available, and weekly class schedules can be found on HorseShowing.com and at the links below.
The WCHR program offers year-end awards for riders in 10 divisions: Professional, Developing Professional, Handy Hunter, Amateur-Owner 3’6”, Amateur-Owner 3’3”, Adult Amateur, Junior 3’6”, Junior 3’3”, Childrens’ and Pony.
“We are thrilled to have two WCHR weeks added to the schedule at WEC,” said top hunter rider and trainer Amanda Steege. “The WCHR program, as well as the green incentive program, are very important to us at Ashmeadow Farm, and we tailor our show schedule around them.”
Hunters will compete in the WEC Grand Arena during Week VI, with junior equitation riders taking the stage on Saturday evening, February 10, for the Premier Equitation Cup Championship.
“WEC – Ocala is such a beautiful venue, and there is a lot of competition here this year in the hunter rings so I think it is very fitting for these programs to be here,” added Steege. “I’m especially excited for WCHR Week VI when they let the hunters show in the WEC Grand Arena.”
During Week XII, hunter derby riders will have the chance to earn fantastic prize money in the three weekly hunter derbies, with prize money being increased to $75,000 for each. The $75,000 UF Veterinary Hospital USHJA 3’ Hunter Derby Open, $75,000 USHJA 3’ Hunter Derby Junior/Amateur and $75,000 Golden Ocala 3’6”-3’9” Hunter Derby will be held in the atmospheric WEC Stadium on Friday, March 22.
Winter Spectacular XII: 3/20-3/24 | FEI CSIO5* Longines League of Nations™/ Premier Hunter/Level 6 Jumper/WCHR
In addition to unrivaled equine stabling and premier footing in warm-up and competition arenas, WEC – Ocala boasts a stunning Grand Arena with The Equestrian Hotel backdrop, family-friendly atmosphere, five-star on-site accommodations and a variety of dining options.
For other essential information about the 2024 Winter Spectacular Show Series at WEC – Ocala, click the button below to access the prize list, the tentative weekly class schedules, place entries and reserve stalls.
2024 Winter Spectacular Show Series Information
Hospitality Offerings
Join World Equestrian Center – Ocala on Saturday nights during the 2024 Winter Spectacular Show Series for an unmatched experience. Choose from the Grand Prix Dining Experience presented by Wheels Up and the Grand Prix Reception Experience, each offering remarkable views and world-class hospitality.
Grand Prix Reception Experience
Reserve a seat with a premium view of the Grand Arena to watch the grand prix action while you enjoy a reception with included hors d’oeuvres and charcuterie from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., along with a complimentary drink ticket and dedicated private cash bar. $75 per person, tax additional
Grand Prix Dining Experience Presented by Wheels Up
With a table offering the most coveted view of the Grand Arena, you can enjoy top-level equestrian sport under the lights at The Equestrian Hotel. Indulge in a three-course chef’s dinner featuring complimentary beer and wine. A cash bar will be available for spirits and bottles of wine from the in-house master sommelier’s selections.
2024 Winter Spectacular Grand Finale and Longines League of Nations™ Grand Terrace Dining
Experience the excitement of the 2024 Winter Spectacular Show Series grand finale on March 19-23 and the Longines League of Nations™ from the most coveted view at World Equestrian Center – Ocala. Witness elite Jumping performances throughout the week from Stirrups’ terrace, open for Wednesday breakfast through Sunday brunch.
Grand Terrace Dining Packages
Lodging
Winter rates are now available for all lodging options. Stay in luxury at The Equestrian Hotel or find comfort and convenience at the Home Away from Homes rental units and on-site RV park.
Discounts for full-circuit, monthly and weekly rentals are available for Home Away from Home and the WEC RV Park.
Visit ocala.wec.net/stay or call 866-478-9267 to book your horse show accommodations today.
About World Equestrian Center
World Equestrian Center features two premier equestrian and multidisciplinary venues in Ocala, Florida, and Wilmington, Ohio.
These exclusive facilities comprise state-of-the-art arenas, expansive stadiums, versatile outdoor space, sporting fields and well-appointed exposition centers. An abundance of lodging options and luxury accommodations are conveniently located on-site, along with shopping and dining throughout each property.
Dedicated to offering great sport and good fun in a family-friendly environment, World Equestrian Center promises an unparalleled experience for exhibitors, spectators, vendors, sponsors and retailers built on three core values: Quality. Class. Distinction.
Learn more at wec.net.
Media Contact
Justin Garner
Justin.garner@wec.net
