Wilmington, Ohio – May 12, 2020 – Experts predict that a second wave of the coronavirus is likely later this year. Given those predictions and after discussions with our state and local health officials, we have elected to close World Equestrian Center – Ohio from September 1, 2020 through March 31, 2021. Due to the facility’s enclosed environment, we believe this is the right thing to do for the safety of our staff and exhibitors.

Our Ocala facility opens Jan. 5, 2021 with a 12-week show series at what we believe will be the safest facility in the country.

• Our WEC Premier Championships will move to Ocala featuring the Premier Equitation Cup and two Hunter Classic Premier Cup Classes with a new car awarded to each class winner.
• The Equitation Cup will feature the new $100,000 trainer bonus.

We will be making an announcement in the near future about what to expect at World Equestrian Center – Ocala along with a revised prize list.

The World Equestrian Center – Ohio facility will reopen in April 1, 2021 with an expanded prize list for a spectacular spring and summer circuit. Until that time, we will be busy with a spate of improvements to the facility designed to increase air circulation, reduce barn aisle traffic and allow for social distancing. These include:

• Upgrading our ventilation system.
• Adding Dutch doors to stalls.
• Installing additional overhead doors on the indoor rings.

In recent weeks, we’ve been adding wash rack dividers, concrete flooring and garage doors in barns and installing 52 new Home Away from Home accommodations. We expect to put the finishing touches on the fitness facility and Starbucks amenities this summer.

Making this decision now will allow those trainers and exhibitors who planned to attend our WEC Ohio fall and winter shows to adjust their schedules and attend to the details that accompany horse show travel.

Source: Press release from World Equestrian Center

Photo: © World Equestrian Center