New Leading Rider Awards Bring $450,000 in Bonus Money to World Equestrian Center – Ocala in the 2026-2027 Season 

10 APR 26 Ocala, FL

An equestrian rider on a white horse jumps over a yellow obstacle during a nighttime competition in front of a large, illuminated building.

Ocala, FL –World Equestrian Center – Ocala (WEC) is raising the stakes for the 2026–2027 season with the launch of the WEC – Ocala Leading Rider Awards, featuring $450,000 in bonus money for athletes competing throughout the year.

The season-long awards will track points beginning with the 2026 Summer Series (Summer Opener, June 3) and continue through the September & October Fall Series, November & December Show Series, and the Winter circuit, concluding at Winter Spectacular XIII 2027. The program rewards consistent top performances across hunter and jumper competition at WEC – Ocala.

Two equestrians riding horses jump over obstacles in separate outdoor show jumping competitions.

A total of $450,000 in bonus money will be awarded across six Leading Rider titles at the conclusion of Winter Spectacular XIII 2027:

  • $125,000 – Leading Professional Jumper Rider
  • $125,000 – Leading Professional Hunter Rider
  • $50,000 – Leading Amateur Jumper Rider
  • $50,000 – Leading Amateur Hunter Rider
  • $50,000 – Leading Junior Jumper Rider
  • $50,000 – Leading Junior Hunter Rider

Amateur and Junior riders are not eligible for Professional awards.

Points will be accumulated throughout the season in all classes where athletes are eligible within their respective divisions.

Points will be earned as follows:

  • Professional Jumper Award: All Open classes 1.10m and above, plus all Young Jumper classes where a final classification is given
  • Professional Hunter Award: All Open classes 3’0” and above, plus all Young Hunter classes
  • Amateur Jumper Award: All classes restricted to Juniors and Amateurs at 1.00m and above
  • Amateur Hunter Award: All classes restricted to Juniors and Amateurs at 3’0” and above
  • Junior Jumper Award: All classes restricted to Juniors and Amateurs at 1.00m and above
  • Junior Hunter Award: All classes restricted to Juniors and Amateurs at 3’0” and above 

Spanning multiple circuits and months of competition, the WEC – Ocala Leading Rider Awards offer a new opportunity for riders to build momentum and be rewarded for consistency throughout the season.

Discover World Equestrian Center – Ocala Resort

Beyond the competition arenas, WEC – Ocala offers a full resort experience for exhibitors and guests. Convenient on-site lodging is available at The Equestrian Hotel and The Riding Academy Hotel, vacation rentals at Home Away from Home and Crownwood, as well as the WEC RV Park.

Hotel guests can relax between classes at the resort-style pools at both hotels, including splash pads for kids to enjoy. For locals seeking a daycation by the pool, limited day passes are available for purchase. The property also features the full-service Calluna Spa and Salon, boutique shopping, and 13 dining options across the campus.

 The newest addition to the destination experience is The Equestrian Manor, offering a four-restaurant collection including The Polo Pony, The White Willow, Genevieve’s and a second, expanded location of Emma’s Patisserie. 

Located adjacent to WEC – Ocala, Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club offers extended-stay accommodations with 7- or 30-day options designed for WEC exhibitors. The private club community features residences, villas, and homes with convenient access to the showgrounds, along with world-class amenities including championship golf, tennis, fitness facilities, resort-style pools, and clubhouse dining.

Follow WEC – Ocala Resort on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date on the latest all year long.