The most prestigious show jumping series for national teams in the world returns to Ocala in February. The Furusiyya FEI Nations Cup^TM is scheduled for Feb. 14-19 at the Ocala Horse Properties Stadium at HITS Post Time Farm.

Ocala will host the only U.S. North American Region qualifier for the finals, which will be held in Barcelona, Spain. This marks the third year for Ocala to host this prestigious event.

Home to many equestrians who take advantage of the state-of-the-art Golden Ocala Equestrian Center and its full range of amenities, Golden Ocala enjoys keeping its members informed about notable industry news and events such as the upcoming FEI Nations Cup event.

In recognition of the Nations Cup and its importance to the local community, a special “Jump Downtown” event is scheduled for 6 p.m., Feb. 15 on Ocala’s Downtown Square.  Sponsored by the City of Ocala and coordinated by the Ocala/Marion County Chamber and Economic Partnership, Ocala Main Street and the Florida Institute for Human and Machine Cognition, the downtown event will feature a Parade of Nations Horse Celebration. This parade will welcome and honor this year’s teams and equestrians from around the world who are in Ocala to compete in the Nations Cup, and showcase many of the breeds that make Ocala the “Horse Capital of the World.”  This is a free, family-friendly event, making it a can’t-miss opportunity to cheer on world-class athletes and enjoy the equine side of our community.

The Furusiyya FEI Nations Cup™ was originally launched in 1909 and is the oldest and most prestigious team jumping competition in the world. In 2013 the historic series was given a more global format, dividing the world into six regions; Europe (Division 1 and 2), North & Central America, South America, Middle East, Asia/Australia and Africa. From each of these regions, teams are able to qualify for the world final.

The Nations Cup event is a team competition which features four riders per team. For the Ocala event, eight international teams are being invited to compete. The competition will consist of two jumping rounds:

• The riders of the eight best-placed participating teams (after the first round) ride the second course.
• Each team’s lowest score for each round is dropped. The winning team has the lowest score from faults.

HITS Post Time Farm is at 13710 N.W. U.S. Highway 27 in Ocala. Organizers expect to hold the Furusiyya FEI Nation Cup^TM rain or shine. Tickets go on sale Feb. 1.

For more information about the Golden Ocala Equestrian Center, its private barn suites and membership opportunities, contact us today at 352-369-6969.