Florida Horse Park Launches Stall Fundraising Campaign

Moving into their second season of a full roster of competitions, the Florida Horse Park in Ocala, continues to develop and attract support from the equestrian community nationwide. No longer just for race horses, Ocala has experienced a boom in real estate growth as well as the relocation of many horse enthusiasts from southern Florida. Much of this growth has been attributed to the gargantuan effort of the folks involved with the development of this 500 acre facility in central Florida.

The Park is beginning a fundraising campaign this week with the goal of raising $1.5 million to build the first 300 stalls at the Park. The volunteer-driven fundraising campaign gives supporters the opportunity to have their name on a piece of history. Individuals, businesses and organizations are being asked to donate the cost of a stall or stalls to help fund construction of permanent stabling at the Park. In exchange, they receive a plaque with their name on it on one (or more) of the stalls. “The concept is working,” states Chester Weber, Co-Chair of the project.

“We have recruited six teams. Each team is responsible for raising the money for 50 stalls. Although we are officially kicking off the program this week, we already have pledges in for about 50 stalls and counting.” The Park is planning to finish the drive in late January in order to give state lawmakers the opportunity to understand the kind of statewide support the Horse Park is receiving. “We have teams asking groups in Vero Beach, Naples, Wellington, Palm Beach, Orlando and Tallahassee for support. When this campaign is over, not only will we have the funding for 300 stalls, there will also be proof of the importance of this venue to the entire state.” Construction of the barns is planned for the summer of 2007.

Dressage Dates at the Florida Horse Park in 2007

Watch a wonderful video and Learn more about the Florida Horse Park