OCALA, FL (January 13, 2010) The start of the 2010 HITS Ocala Winter Circuit is less than a week away and exhibitors, spectators, friends and families are preparing to gather at HITS Post Time Farm in Ocala, Florida to enjoy eight weeks of what many consider the “greatest show on earth”.
The Ocala Winter Circuit continues to be one of the most popular horse show circuits in the United States, said Tom Struzzieri, HITS President and CEO. The product we offer in Ocala is special, and the loyalty our customers have for the circuit is something we are very proud of. Entries in Ocala are very strong for this season, which speaks volumes to the experience people enjoy when they show at HITS Ocala. The Pfizer $1 Million Grand Prix is driving a lot of interest from high-performance riders, while the new Devoucoux Hunter Derby has created a true buzz in the Hunter world and has that audience very excited for the start of the circuit. The property looks great, the rings are ready and I'm looking forward to a terrific season here in Ocala.
It's no secret that Pfizer $1 Million Grand Prix has been the talk of the town as riders from far and wide are itching to qualify. HITS Ocala offers an impressive 14 qualifying Grand Prix classes throughout the circuit worth a total of $575,000 in prize money. Grand Prix classes during the two January shows take place on Sundays, while during the rated circuit there are Grand Prix classes every Thursday and Sunday. The season will culminate on Sunday, March 21 with the $100,000 DeLuca Toyota Tundra Grand Prix presented by Great American Insurance Group, which together with the standings from HITS Thermal and HITS Arizona, will paint an initial landscape for the Pfizer Grand Prix Rider Standings leading into the HITS Spring and Summer Circuits.
High-performance rider, and 2009's Leading USGPL Grand Prix Rider, Tracy Magness is an Ocala regular. The Maryland native is looking forward to the season after what she says has been a long break. “I can’t wait to get back to work next week. Yesterday and today have been beautiful in Ocala and I’m really happy to be back! I have a new mare that I’m very excited about, EuroHorse Carrera. She’s eight and we are going to use Ocala as our ‘getting to know you’ phase.” Magness plans to debut her new horse in some classes next week and try some of the $10,000 Friday Prix classes during the rated circuit. Magness also has her Grand Prix super star Tarco Van Ter Moude with her in Ocala and is hoping to repeat their success from 2009 as they take aim at qualifying for the Pfizer $1 Million Grand Prix. “I want to do well in Ocala this season so we can take the pressure off and be close to qualifying for the Pfizer Million. That’s my plan at least. Things get pretty competitive in Ocala so we’ll see how it goes!”
When not hard at work, Magness and her husband like to enjoy all that Ocala and Marion County has to offer. “There are great restaurants and beautiful places to explore all around here. In less than two hours you can be at the beach, Orlando, or the shopping outlets. There’s so much to enjoy when we have a day off, we love it here.”
While high-performance riders prepare to secure a spot in the rankings for the Pfizer $1 Million Grand Prix at one of the 14 Qualifying Grand Prix classes offered at HITS Ocala, there are plenty of other exciting classes offered to all levels of exhibitors. The $20,500 Marshall & Sterling Children's/Adult Jumper Championship, a Jumper highlight of last year's pre-circuit, is back in the lineup of special classes offered at HITS Ocala this season.
The all new Devoucoux Hunter Derby makes its anticipated debut at the HITS Ocala Winter Circuit. With fences at 3'3, the Devoucoux Derby is the latest addition to the Marshall & Sterling League, and will offer $10,000 in prize money each week. And last but not least, Juniors will once again have the chance to compete in the R.W. Mutch Equitation Championship during week VI. Special Exhibitor & Spectator Events
Mark your calendars! The unique array of special events at HITS Ocala is one-of-a-kind. Exhibitors trade breeches for irons at the HITS Ocala Golf Tournament at Golden Ocala Golf and Equestrian Club on Monday, February 22.
The infamous HITS Ocala Star Search Exhibitor Party is back on Friday, February 26 when familiar-faced judges decide who will become the next singing sensation at HITS Ocala. Plug your ears and enjoy some delicious food provided by the HITS Restaurant.
The beautiful World of the Horse exhibition will be on Sunday, February 28, with an array of breeds in a parade for all horse lovers. More great events are scheduled, including the 5K Fun Run which will be on Wednesday, March 3 rd and the infamous Purina Mills Weekend from March 12-14.
HITS Ocala pre-circuit begins from January 20-31 for two unrated weeks. HITS Ocala returns after an off-week and will run from February 9 March 21 for six consecutive weeks of AA-rated show jumping. Entries for the rated circuit close on Wednesday, January 20. For more information on the HITS Ocala Winter Circuit, please click here.
Ocala January Classic January 20-24 | Entry
Ocala January Festival January 27-31 | Entry
Off-Week February 2-7
Ocala Winter Classic February 9-14 | Entry
Ocala Winter Festival February 16-21 | Entry
Ocala Masters February 23-28 | Entry
Ocala Tournament March 2-7 | Entry
Ocala Winter Finals March 9-14 | Entry
Ocala Winter Celebration March 16-21 | Entry |
