Located in North-Central
Florida, other than Kentucky, Ocala boasts of the only geography
capable of growing Blue Grass. Because
of this, and Ocala's temperate climate, it has become the
Horse Capital of the World. Many world famous Thoroughbreds
have foaled and raised in Ocala. A drive through
the countryside will offer views of some of the biggest, most
prestigious farms in the world.
In addition to the
Thoroughbreds, many other horse breeds can be found grazing
in pastures on Ocala's horse farms. Ocala
is also host to a continuous variety of horse related events.
The famous HITS ( horseshow in the sun ) Hunter/Jumper show
series, lasting for six weeks runs January to March. Many horse
trails are available in the Ocala National Forest and the Cross
Florida Greenway, with a land bridge crossing I-75. For
the driving enthusiasts Gloria Austin's Continental Acres hosts
a world famous Carriage Museum. A visit to Ocala is never
complete until you attend the Ocala Breeders Sales, prestigious
thoroughbred auctions. You might just catch a glimpse of
the next Triple Crown winner.
Many famous people and horse trainers call Ocala home. John
Travolta, Pat Parelli, George Steinbrenner and Olympic Driving
Champion Chester Weber.
In addition to Ocala's famous horse farms, visit Rainbow Springs State
Park canoe on the beautiful head springs of the Rainbow River, Silver Springs
Amusement Park hosts a star filled concert series. For the hiker or biker
there are many trails to travel in the Ocala National Forest. Ocala is centrally
located and within one hours drive to Orlando, Tampa, Gainesville and Daytona
Beach.
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