Fifth Annual Ocala Jumping Classic Returns April 2-4


Canada’s Hugh Graham riding Executive Privilege 3E won the 2009 Ocala Jumping Classic Grand Prix in Ocala, Florida. Photo by L.A. Brown Photography

March 18, 2010 – Ocala, Florida – The fifth annual Ocala Jumping Classic, featuring the $30,000 Ocala Horse Properties LLC Grand Prix, Presented by Brook Ledge, Inc., returns to Ocala, FL, from April 2-4.

Over three days, more than $70,000 in prize money will be awarded at the Ocala Jumping Classic. In addition to prize money, competitors can also look forward to jumping on all-weather Wordley Martin Equestrian footing at the Ocala Jumping Classic’s new location. The venue, located at 8040 West Highway 326, is the training center of New Zealand Olympian, Sharn Wordley.

The smaller, more intimate setting will allow horses and riders to focus on the task at hand as they compete in the 1.10m, 1.15m, 1.20m, 1.30m, 1.40m, 1.45m and Grand Prix divisions. FEI ‘C’ course designer Mauricio Garcia of Puerto Rico will set the tracks in the state-of-the-art outdoor arena.

In addition to Sunday’s featured event, the $30,000 Ocala Horse Properties LLC Grand Prix, Presented by Brook Ledge, Inc., the Ocala Jumping Classic will also offer a $10,000 1.40m Modified Grand Prix, a $10,000 1.40m Jumper competition presented by Brody Robertson Show Jumps, a $5,000 1.30m Modified Grand Prix presented by Wordley Martin Equestrian LLC, a $5,000 1.20m Classic, and many other classes.

“We are committed to hosting a great weekend of show jumping and strive to put competitor comfort at the top of our list of priorities,” said Ainsley Hayes, Manager of the Ocala Jumping Classic. “Each year, we use the feedback from our competitors to improve our event, and anticipate that this year will be the best Ocala Jumping Classic yet. We are especially looking forward to welcoming everyone to the new venue.”

With a reputation for warm hospitality, Hayes Co., the organizers of the Ocala Jumping Classic, welcome all competitors to a reception on Friday, April 2, from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Golden Hills Golf & Turf Club.

Hayes Co. would also like to acknowledge the generous support of the Ocala Jumping Classic sponsors including Brody Robertson Show Jumps, Brook Ledge, Inc., Equine Waste Recycling, Golden Hills Golf & Turf Club, Ocala Horse Properties LLC, Point Two, The Sanctuary, Waterworks and Wordley Martin Equestrian LLC.

For more information on the fifth annual Ocala Jumping Classic including the full prize list, please visit www.hayesco.ca, or contact Ainsley Hayes at e-mail: ainsley@hayesco.ca or cell: (416) 846-8419.