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.
