A community that calls itself the “Horse Capital of the World” will further justify that title with the opening of the World Equestrian Center. The 3,000-acre complex in the heart of scenic horse country will be unique in the Southeast United States as a center for world-class equine events. The main arena will seat 10,000 spectators around the 3-acre Grand Outdoor Stadium. Permanent, climate-controlled stalls will house 1,500 horses. Visitors can lodge on-site in the 385-room luxury hotel, 835-unit condominium complex or make use of the 200 spacious, pet-friendly RV sites.
How does this take Ocala to the next step as an equestrian center? How does it compare to similar facilities worldwide?
The project is the second of its kind for trucking magnate Larry Roberts, who operates another World Equestrian Center in Wilmington, Ohio. It will be golf-cart accessible from his luxurious Golden Ocala Golf & Country Club development.
Golden Ocala itself is a Marion County gem. The 1,200-acre development is built around a championship golf course designed by Ron Garl. It includes miles of riding trails, golf, tennis and luxury spa in the elegant clubhouse. Its homes include seasonal rental condos, expansive estates and classic townhouses.
Upon completion the World Equestrian Center will also include a 2,400-home community called Equine Estates, which will offer unique amenities to equine enthusiasts on multi-acre lots. Indeed, demand for Ocala horse farms is on the rise.
What is the state of demand for horse farms in Ocala? What are people looking for? Where are they coming from? Why is Ocala special?
In addition to adding new horse properties, the World Equestrian Center will also bring an economic boost to Marion County and further establish its reputation as an equine center.
In total the facility will create 525,000 square feet of commercial space, including 18,000 square feet of retail space, meeting and conference areas. Additional amenities include on-site riding trails, 4 indoor and 17 outdoor arenas, restaurants, vet clinic, chapel and more.
The facility will also benefit from its close proximity to the Ocala International Airport, which is uniquely suited to horse transportation.
What are the key differences between this and the Ocala Horse Park?
Why does this facility make it a good time to buy horse properties?
