From Ocala/Marion County's Thoroughbred farms and training centers,
to major bloodstock auctions and the excitement of racing at
three racetracks and ITW simulcasting, Florida has it all!
Florida is home to some 600 Thoroughbred farms and training
centers, with more than 75 percent of these located near Ocala
in Marion County. Ocala is also home to the Ocala Breeders'
Sales Company, which stages major bloodstock auctions throughout
the year. OBS also operates an ITW simulcasting theater and
each March hosts the annual Week of Champions races.
The Florida Thoroughbred Breeders' and Owners' Association
is also located in Ocala. The FTBOA administers the $15-million
state breeders' incentive program and is responsible for promoting
the Florida Thoroughbred industry.
The concentration of the Thoroughbred breeding and training
industry in the Ocala/Marion County area is strongly supported
by a network of equine services, such as veterinarians, feed
and tack retailers, blacksmiths, equine dentists, and major
horse transportation companies.
All these factors make Ocala one of only four major Thoroughbred
breeding and training centers in the world. |
