Hey everyone! Looking for some recommendations. I’m coming down to Ocala for the summer to work. I know most people with farms down here go up north for the summer, but unfortunately I won’t be able to do that.
With that being said, who are some trainers that have barns in Ocala who maybe even do the WEC Summer Circuit, and could perhaps also have something to do a summer lease on in the ammy hunters? Don’t mind if the barn is gone a couple weeks out of the summer to travel to other shows, I have no problem hacking around alone. Lots of experience in h/j world, willing to work as well, don’t mind riding super early in the morning or late in the evening to get away from the heat. Just want a friendly atmosphere that has a knowledgeable trainer with a good reputation for taking care of their horses and being a kind teacher for a slightly nervous ammy. Thanks!!
I don’t have a specific barn to recommend but if you are on Facebook there are a few FB groups in the Ocala area where you could post an inquiry (search in the FB group search for WEC Ocala , etc).
The “Ocala Equestrian Community” Facebook group is a great source of information.
Maybe you should read the thread on Ocala (or FL) Year Round before you spend a summer in Ocala. It sounds miserable.
People that are typically around that do the hunters:
Opening Bell- Jordan Lubow and Abby Strohmeyer
Meadowwood Farm- Lauren Schweppe
Kingsmeade- Clare Kellner (although their farm is based in Tampa, but she does WEC and sometimes Venice)
I think part of Emil’s crew stays down here-so Redfield Farm maybe?
Tim Maddrix
Issac Leftkowitz
Mickie Sage
Hiddenwell Farm- Elizabeth Blaisdell
Not sure what everyone’s summer plans are this year, but they’ve typically done some of the summer series at WEC. A lot will also go to Kentucky for Derby Finals/Pony Finals etc. Some may go to Venice or Tryon, as well.