Visiting Speakers   

Curious about how the Thoroughbred industry actually works? This session breaks down the full strategic process behind breeding, developing, and selling a Thoroughbred-from stallion selection and foaling evaluation to sale placement and final bid. We will explore how professionals analyze pedigrees, assess conformation and development, determine purchasing seasons, optimize breeder award eligibility, and appraise value at every stage of growth. Attendees will gain a clear understanding of how decisions are made regarding weanling, mixed, yearling, two-year-old in training, digital, and horses of racing age markets and what timelines must be initiated once a sale target is selected.

Whether you are simply interested in the industry, considering ownership, or exploring how to become involved professionally, this course provides an organized roadmap to understanding how breeding strategy, development planning, and market timing work together to drive value in the Thoroughbred marketplace.

Candace Shelton, representing the Ocala/Marion County Visitors and Convention Bureau, highlights how premier venues like the World Equestrian Center, Florida Horse Park, and Southeastern Livestock Pavilion solidify the region’s identity as the "Horse Capital of the World®." She illustrates how the synergy between historic Thoroughbred roots and modern equine tourism drives massive economic growth and international visitation. By leveraging these diverse assets, the county sustains a year-round competitive landscape that bolsters the regional economy and supports local job creation.

Emergencies on equine properties demand a calm, organized, and immediate response. This session provides step-by-step protocols for high-risk situations such as colic, catastrophic injury, barn accidents, trailer incidents, and facility fires. We’ll cover stabilization priorities, communication chains, liability considerations, and coordination with veterinarians and emergency services.

Even for those who don’t own horses, understanding these procedures is vital, whether you work around horses, visit equine facilities, or simply want to be prepared to help safely. Participants will leave with a clear, actionable framework that reduces chaos and improves outcomes.

In an homage to the Disney family history- Walt's parents were among the first people married in Lake County - Walt Disney World built Disney springs, intended to evoke the spirit of small-town Florida. They do a great job in some respects, but nothing beats true small-town Florida. This talk will take you to five Florida small towns that out-Disney Disney World at showcasing old Florida. 

Perhaps no state or territory in the United States has changed as much as Florida has over the past century. In this talk, take a virtual trip around the state to look at how different areas and landmarks have changed. This pictorial journey will showcase well-known (and little-known) places, featuring photographs from "then" and "now." The talk will also touch on the historical or environmental significance of these places. Finally, those who want to visit these places will have the opportunity to ask questions about how best to do so. 

This presentation explains the foundations of equine rehabilitation and structural recovery. We will examine the balancing act of creating an individualized rehabilitation plan for a recovering equine companion. How to determine the what, when, how, and why sequencing that determines success or failure. Attendees will gain a clearer understanding of conditioning progression, common rehabilitation errors, how, what, and when to communicate with a veterinarian, and long-term rehabilitation planning, using science-based principles translated into practical management applications. Even those without horses will gain practical insights into structured recovery, planning, and evidence-based problem-solving applicable beyond the barn.

Celebrate the creativity and equestrian spirit that define the Horse Fever phenomenon. Join Laurie Zink, co-chair of all Horse Fever herds, for an engaging presentation exploring the history and impact of this beloved public art project that began in 2001 and helped spark the creation of the Marion Cultural Alliance.

Learn how life-sized, artist-painted horse sculptures have become a signature symbol of Marion County’s equestrian heritage and how the project has raised funds to support local arts. Laurie will highlight memorable horses from all four herds, share images and stories behind their designs, and introduce the new 25th Anniversary collection. Participants will also have the opportunity to see Tribute 25, the 2026 commemorative statue created by artist Sharon Crute, up close during the presentation.

Presented in partnership with the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders' and Owners' Association, this program offers a fascinating look at the art, community spirit, and horse culture that helped make Marion County the Horse Capital of the World®.

The only tribe that has never signed a so-called peace treaty with the United States, the Seminole Tribe of Florida has perhaps the most unique history of any tribe in North America. Their fight to hold on to their culture, land and freedom, even as other tribes fell to Euro-American violence, is part of a larger story of an amazing people. This talk tells only part of their story, but what a story it is.

If you enjoyed Cathy Salustri's October Then and Now presentation, make sure to register for the second part. If you were not able to make the first class, this one is sure to excite.

Take a look at how Florida was, and how it is, through pictures. Cathy will talk about places across the Sunshine State. Some you know, and perhaps some you don't, and their historic, cultural, and environmental significance today.

Want to take a trip in Florida? Look no further than the state's tourism website, your local AAA, or even a bevy of travel magazines. Is it still possible to find pockets of Florida not overrun with tourists seeking a theme park experience? This talk will take you to five places you might not know about - and tell you why they're worth visiting.