Ocala, FL – June 3, 2024 – World Equestrian Center – Ocala is pleased to announce the appointment of Tom Hern as the new Director of Equestrian Operations. With extensive experience managing horse shows and a track record of exceptional leadership, Hern brings a variety of knowledge and expertise to the role.
Hern’s resume includes his tenure as Horse Show Manager at Fieldstone Show Park in Halifax, Massachusetts, where he oversaw premier events such as the Massachusetts Equitation Finals and the Rhode Island Equitation Finals. He also served as Assistant Manager at the Pin Oak Charity Horse Show in Katy, Texas.
In addition to his management roles, Hern is a USEF Large “R” Hunter, Equitation, and Jumper course designer with over 20 years of experience. He has designed courses for some of the country’s most prestigious equestrian events, including World Equestrian Center – Wilmington and Ocala Winter Series, the USEF Hunter Seat Medal Finals at the Pennsylvania National Horse Show, the Winter Equestrian Festival, the West Coast Adequan/USEF Junior Hunter National Championships, the West Coast USHJA Gladstone Cup Equitation Classic and the Las Vegas National Horse Show.
“I’m excited to join the exceptional team at World Equestrian Center,” said Hern. “With over 30 years in the equine industry, I look forward to leveraging my unique experiences as a professional rider, trainer, course designer and show manager to further the vision established by the Roberts Family. As we look to the future, my goal will be to enhance and expand the world-class experiences offered at this remarkable facility for both horses and riders.”
In his new role, Hern will oversee day-to-day equestrian operations of the facility, including World Equestrian Center hunter/jumper, dressage, western, and outside equestrian events hosted by the facility. His proven ability to manage complex operations and build strong, cohesive teams will be invaluable as he leads the venue into its next chapter. World Equestrian Center – Ocala looks forward to the continued success of equestrian events under Hern’s direction.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Tom Hern to the World Equestrian Center – Ocala family,” shared World Equestrian Center CEO, Roby Roberts and his wife, Jennie on behalf of the Roberts Family. “The future of equestrian events at WEC is bright, and we believe that under Tom’s leadership, we will continue to grow and provide our signature quality, class and distinction to competitors and guests.”
A lifelong equestrian, Hern and his wife, Amy, owned and operated Kingsway Farm, for the last 30 years. Kingsway Farm was a successful hunter/jumper training and boarding operation, traveling to premier shows along the East Coast.
About World Equestrian Center
World Equestrian Center features two premier equestrian and multidisciplinary venues in Ocala, Florida, and Wilmington, Ohio.
These exclusive facilities comprise state-of-the-art arenas, expansive stadiums, versatile outdoor space, sporting fields and well-appointed exposition centers. An abundance of lodging options and luxury accommodations are conveniently located on-site, along with shopping and dining throughout each property.
Dedicated to offering great sport and good fun in a family-friendly environment, World Equestrian Center promises an unparalleled experience for exhibitors, spectators, vendors, sponsors and retailers built on three core values: Quality. Class. Distinction.
Learn more at wec.net.
Media Contact:
Leah Tong
leah.tong@wec.net