World Equestrian Center Welcomes Top Hunter Jumper Riders

The World Equestrian Center in Ocala has established itself as one of the top venues for equestrian sport in the United States. Designed to accommodate everything from local shows to international competitions, it attracts riders at every level.

Hunter jumper events are among the biggest draws, bringing together skilled competitors, respected trainers & dedicated spectators. The discipline demands precision, athleticism & a strong partnership between horse & rider, making it a favorite for both participants & fans.

This season, WEC’s competition calendar is packed with high-profile events. One of the most anticipated is a Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ qualifier—an opportunity for top riders to earn a place at the prestigious final in Switzerland.

What Makes World Equestrian Center Stand Out

The World Equestrian Center in Ocala isn’t just a competition venue—it’s a full-scale destination for riders, trainers & equestrian enthusiasts. As one of the largest indoor and outdoor equestrian facilities in the United States, WEC was built with both horse & rider in mind. Every detail, from the footing in the arenas to the layout of the barns, was designed to create an unmatched experience for competitors at every level.

The facility offers world-class footing to protect horses’ joints & optimize performance, climate-controlled stabling for comfort in any season & spacious, well-designed competition arenas. Riders have access to on-site accommodations, making travel easier for those who come from out of town. A variety of shops & vendors provide everything from high-end tack to custom riding apparel, ensuring competitors have what they need without leaving the grounds.

WEC is an equestrian lifestyle hub. Between rounds, visitors can enjoy top-tier dining, entertainment & relaxation. Families & spectators find just as much to love, whether they’re exploring the shops, watching world-class competition or simply taking in the atmosphere of a venue designed for those who live & breathe the sport. The combination of amenities, competition quality & overall experience makes WEC a standout in the equestrian world.

The Hunter Jumper Discipline: A Test of Skill & Precision

Hunter jumper competitions require a unique balance of athleticism, precision & strategy. While both disciplines involve navigating a course of jumps, the judging criteria set them apart.

Hunters emphasize style, rhythm & technique. Judges look for smooth, consistent rounds where the horse maintains a steady pace & jumps with elegance. Position, form & overall impression matter just as much as clearing the obstacles. The goal is to create a seamless performance that looks effortless.

Jumpers are all about speed & accuracy. Scoring is objective—riders must complete the course as quickly as possible while avoiding penalties for knocking rails, refusals or exceeding the time allowed. A clean, fast round wins, which means split-second decisions & bold riding often make the difference.

WEC is a prime venue for both hunters & jumpers. Riders benefit from world-class footing, spacious arenas & expertly designed courses that challenge their abilities while allowing horses to perform at their best. The consistent show schedule provides ample opportunities to compete at every level, while top-tier course designers ensure that each competition meets the highest standards. Whether riders are chasing ribbons or refining their skills, WEC provides an ideal stage for excellence.

Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ Ocala: A Historic Event at WEC

A Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ North American League qualifier will take place at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala for the first time. This prestigious event, set for February 11-16, 2025, serves as the final qualifying competition before the FEI Jumping World Cup™ Final in Basel, Switzerland. Competitors will bring their best horses, skill & strategy to this high-stakes event, fighting for a spot at the championship.

The Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™, one of the most respected series in international show jumping, attracts Olympic-level talent & top-ranked riders. Intense rivalries, fast jump-offs & precision riding will define this event as competitors battle for their last chance to qualify. Each round will demand flawless execution & bold decisions.

Events of the highest level belong in a venue of this caliber. WEC has already earned recognition for its state-of-the-art arenas, world-class footing & commitment to top-tier competition. Bringing the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ to Ocala proves WEC’s place among the best equestrian venues in the world, making it a must-visit location for fans of elite show jumping & serious competitors alike.

Why Ocala is the Perfect Setting for Equestrian Competition

A reputation as the “Horse Capital of the World” comes from Ocala’s strong equestrian culture. Professionals, trainers & breeders have built their careers here, shaping a community centered around the sport. World-class training facilities, breeding operations & top-tier competitions create an environment where serious competitors find everything they need.

Year-round training & competition are possible because of Ocala’s ideal climate. Harsh winters never disrupt schedules, and horses maintain peak performance thanks to consistent conditions. Riders preparing for an international event or a national show can count on Ocala to provide the right setting to stay competition-ready.

A close-knit equestrian community adds even more appeal. Horse people support one another, with veterinarians, training programs & businesses dedicated to the needs of competitors at every level. A seasoned professional or a rider working toward the next milestone both benefit from Ocala’s deep network of experts & resources, which few other places can match.

Planning a Visit to WEC for Hunter Jumper Events

The best time to visit the World Equestrian Center depends on what you want to see. Winter brings the highly anticipated Winter Spectacular Show Series, featuring top hunter jumper competition. Spring and summer offer a mix of national and international events, while fall introduces a packed schedule of rated shows and special exhibitions. No matter the season, WEC hosts a steady stream of hunter jumper action.

Lodging, dining & entertainment are all on-site, making it easy to enjoy the venue without leaving the grounds. The Equestrian Hotel provides luxury accommodations just steps from the arenas, while additional options like RV spaces & partner hotels cater to different budgets. Dining ranges from quick bites at the general store to fine dining at Stirrups, and visitors can browse shops featuring high-end equestrian brands & custom gear.

To make the most of your trip, plan ahead. Competitors should book stalls & accommodations early, especially for major events. Spectators can check schedules to catch the best classes & reserve dining experiences for a full-day outing. Competing or watching from the stands, WEC delivers an experience that goes beyond the competition itself.

Why WEC Stands Out & Where to Find Quality Gear

A must-visit venue for serious equestrians, WEC continues to set the standard for world-class competition. The upcoming Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ Ocala event adds even more prestige, drawing top riders & Olympic-level talent to its arenas.

Riders who dedicate themselves to the sport know that quality gear makes a difference. Perri’s Leather offers handmade tack & accessories designed for both competitors & casual riders, combining craftsmanship with durability. Get leather horse halters, leather leads for horses, leads, and more here at Perri’s Leather or visit The Sudden Impulse store when you are at the WEC Ocala location.