Ocala, FL – World Equestrian Center – Ocala (WEC) is proud to announce a partnership with The Wild Horse Refuge (TWHR), owned and operated by The Wild Animal Sanctuary and dedicated to the conservation and rewilding of wild horses. This collaboration represents a meaningful step forward in advancing TWHR’s mission to provide a natural, free-roaming sanctuary for mustangs on 30,000 acres of open range.
Through this partnership, WEC will provide a platform for The Wild Horse Refuge to raise awareness about wild horse conservation, share educational opportunities, and engage equestrians and equine enthusiasts in impactful ways. Scott Beckstead, Chief Equine Programs Director of The Wild Animal Sanctuary, noted, “We are thrilled to partner with World Equestrian Center. Their dedication to excellence in the equine community aligns perfectly with our own mission. Together, we can foster a deeper understanding of both equine welfare and the critical role of wild horses on our western public lands and ecosystems while also offering a platform for engagement and education.”
As part of this collaboration, The Wild Horse Refuge will present a series of educational initiatives at WEC, designed to inform and inspire. With WEC’s diverse audience of equestrians, horse lovers, and spectators from around the globe, the venue offers an ideal stage for TWHR to showcase its work. Planned programming includes exhibits, interactive presentations, and speaking engagements—all designed to connect guests with the story of wild horses and the importance of preserving their freedom.
In addition, Scott Beckstead will be a featured speaker at Ibericon, an independently produced event held at WEC in October that celebrates the beauty and versatility of the ancient Iberian breeds, including the American Mustang. Many of the horses at TWHR are remarkable examples of Iberian lineage.
About The Wild Animal Sanctuary and The Wild Horse Refuge
The Wild Animal Sanctuary is a nonprofit charitable organization based in Keenesburg, Colorado, that has been rescuing and caring for wild animals in natural habitats for nearly 45 years. It owns and operates The Wild Horse Refuge, a 30,000-acre privately-owned sanctuary in northwestern Colorado devoted to the protection and rewilding of wild horses removed from their native ranges. Through advocacy, education, and hands-on conservation, TWHR is ensuring that these iconic animals can live wild and free—now and for generations to come.
To learn more, visit wildhorserefuge.org.
About World Equestrian Center
Named one of TIME’s 2024 World’s Greatest Places, 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.