AN EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTION BY LISA JESS
It is easy to imagine horses making their homes in Kentucky, Texas and parts of California. But did you know - that Florida is the actual Horse Capital of the World and home to over 300,000 equine friends. To be more specific, Ocala in Marion County about 35 miles South of Gainesville is the long standing center of Floridas Thoroughbred racing industry. This area is well worth a long weekend trip or a stop by enroute to Gainesville. But if you need a horse fix closer to home South Florida is home to some incredible equestrians and their horses. Below is a list of the Top Five Horse Destinations in South Florida.
#5. BERGERON RODEO GROUNDS: DAVIE, FLORIDA
A tradition since 1940, the Bergeron Rodeo Grounds are host to 14 events in 2017 including The Davie Pro Rodeo, several Youth Rodeo events, The Sunshine Stampede and The 80th Annual Orange Blossom Festival. This years Davie Pro Rodeo will be on September 9, 2017 at 7:30 pm.
#4. INTERNATIONAL POLO CLUB OF PALM BEACH: WELLINGTON, FLORIDA
Located just west of Palm Beach, in Wellington, The International Polo Club is one of the largest polo clubs in the world with a seating capacity of over 2,100 and host to a 16-week season of High Goal Polo starting January 1st. Although matches can be seen all week, the premier day is Sunday where the most talented players and their ponies vie for the championship. For the best spectator experience, make your reservations in advance for the Sunday Brunch - a fabulously posh spread where fashion and celebrity spotting is just as much of a highlight as the game. Do not miss the traditional champagne and divot stomping at half time.
#3. SOUTHWEST RANCHES: FLORIDA
Located just west of Fort Lauderdale, this picturesque enclave of estate homes, and professional riding facilities is an excellent choice to take a few riding lessons of your own. Whether you aspire to be jumping in the Grand Prix or just want to try something new, this hidden area is the perfect place to escape the city. There are many great farms in the area, including Cavalia Stables which is the premier training facility and home to some of the most talented show jumpers in the area. Lessons are available from beginner to advanced.
#2. GULFSTREAM PARK: HALLANDALE BEACH, FLORIDA
Gulfstream Park is a destination not only for horses but also for incredible restaurants, shopping and entertainment. Some of the worlds best racehorses come to Florida during the Winter through Spring to train and race in the warm weather. Do not miss the opportunity to see future Kentucky Derby contenders in The Florida Derby, the first weekend April. In January, itness the most talented racehorses in the world at The Pegasus World Cup, the richest horse race in the world with a $12 Million Dollar purse. Be sure to purchase tickets well in advance if you want grandstand or club seating, general admission is usually available the day off.
#1. PALM BEACH INTERNATIONAL EQUESTRIAN CENTER: WELLINGTON, FLORIDA
Home to The Winter Equestrian Festival 12 weeks of competition starting mid-January and host to over 6,000 horses all competing for a share of the $12 million dollars in total prize money. Competition takes place in 18 rings from Wednesday - Sunday. The premier event of the week is Saturday Night Lights with 10,000 spectators in attendance to watch the Grand Prix, entertainment and kids events. You are likely to see some famous names in the event, as Bill Gates, Bruce Springsteen, Michael Bloomberg, and the late Steve Jobs, all have daughters competing at the highest level of competition as well as owning farms in the areas surrounding the center.
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