The Ocala Metro Chamber & Economic Partnership’s Equine Initiative hosted the All-Breed Horse Capital Parade in downtown Ocala on October 4, 2025, showcasing 72 horse breeds that call the area home. Sponsored by Pyranha Animal Health and presented by Pat Myers Electric, the event highlighted Ocala’s status as the Horse Capital of the World and emphasized the local equine industry’s $4.3 billion economic impact. The parade featured notable participants such as Hall of Fame jockey Jacinto Vasquez riding a Mangalarga Marchador, and individuals like Holly Badillo Wilson, who rode a thoroughbred gelding while representing the Misty Morning Hounds foxhunting group.
The parade also celebrated unique horse stories, including Karen Ritchie’s 15-year partnership with Sugar, a versatile mare rescued from Craigslist, and Claudia Bellandi’s prominent display of the Brazilian Mangalarga Marchador breed, many of which she imported. Organizers aim to grow the event annually to further promote Ocala’s equine heritage and industry, reinforcing the community’s pride and global reputation in the horse world.
