Professionals Rave as World Equestrian Center – Ocala Prepares for 2022 USEF Fall Show Series
October 12, 2022 - Ocala, FL
Photo by Andrew Ryback Photography
Photo by Andrew Ryback Photography
Photo by Andrew Ryback Photography
World Equestrian Center – Ocala is anticipating the start of the newly expanded 2022 USEF Fall Show Series, showcasing four weeks of Premier Hunter/Level 6 Jumper competition from November 9 through November 20 and December 7 through December 18. In addition to WEC – Ocala’s traditional splendor, the 2022 USEF Fall Show Series December weeks will see the Grand Plaza adorned with festive holiday décor throughout as a part of the facility’s popular Winter Wonderland experience.
Weekly highlight classes include the $12,500 World Equestrian Center Hunter Derby and the $15,000 World Equestrian Center Futures Prix, as well as the $100,000 World Equestrian Center Grand Prix each Saturday evening. In addition, Thursday, December 8, and December 15, will offer an extra night class with a VIP viewing and dining experience for the $24,000 C. Jarvis Insurance Welcome Prix.
The 2022 USEF Fall Show Series will welcome elite athletes of all levels, from top hunter and equitation competitors to an international field of star jumper riders.
“My favorite part about WEC is jumping the grand prix on Saturday night!” expressed star U.S. athlete Kelli Cruciotti-VanderVeen. “The atmosphere is really special and provides great experience for our horses. It has a real championship feeling when you step into the ring.”
Andrew Bourns, who has represented Ireland internationally on several Nations Cup teams, has his eyes on World Equestrian Center – Ocala’s 2022 USEF Fall Show Series to gear up for a busy winter schedule.
He noted, “I showed at WEC for the first time over the summer in the FEI classes and found the facility second to none. We really enjoyed the atmosphere and working with the show organizers and everyone involved.”
For Bourns, the show environment is especially important as he plans to bring horses straight from Europe following a successful tour abroad. “When I have a newer horse that’s trying to acclimatize to a different place, being able to show at a venue like WEC is very favorable for that,” he explained. “I like that the stabling is really well done, and there’s also some nice trail riding. I find the footing very good, and the show is well managed and maintained.”
Australian show jumper Rowan Willis, who is ranked among the top 100 jumper riders in the world and competed at the 2018 World Equestrian GamesTM in Tryon, North Carolina, is a frequent competitor at World Equestrian Center – Ocala. He is looking forward to returning for the 2022 USEF Fall Show Series.
"WEC is one of the best facilities in the world,” said Willis. “It’s such an incredible feeling to jump during the Saturday night grands prix. There’s always a thrilling buzz with fierce competition. The atmosphere is like no other."
Of course, to jump and win classes of this caliber, the horses have to feel their best. Willis emphasizes the facility at World Equestrian Center – Ocala is an important factor in his decision to consistently attend.
“All of our horses are relaxed and happy when they are at WEC,” he said. “The stabling is the best in the world with large stalls and comfort mattresses. Each arena has the best footing, and the jumps are always outstanding. Not to mention, they have the world’s best course designers building the tracks. We love WEC, and it’s one of our favorite destinations."
“Having a facility like WEC to compete at is a dream come true for our horses and our clients,” added Cruciotti-VanderVeen. “We now don’t have to choose between the right classes and the best facility, because with WEC, it checks all the boxes. Knowing our horses are jumping on the best footing, in the safest stabling possible and having access to some of the best amenities possible in our sport is something really special.”
World Equestrian Center – Ocala also features the University of Florida Veterinary Hospital, which opened its doors on May 26, 2022, and is the first leading-edge facility to be located within a premier equestrian venue worldwide. The hospital provides services to WEC competitors and surrounding Ocala residents for both equine and small animal patients.
Equine services focus on sports medicine, diagnostic imaging and rehabilitation, while small animals receive urgent and primary care, with a goal of expanding specialty services for horses and small animals. Anyone interested in making an appointment at the new facility for their horse or pet may call 352-414-3858.
Visit vethospitals.ufl.edu/wec for more information about specific services provided.
Entries and Stall Reservations for World Equestrian Center – Ocala’s 2022 USEF Fall Show Series can be placed through Show Management System.
