Marion County is located in north central Florida, just south of Gainesville. Best known for thoroughbred breeding, much of Marion County is dedicated to the equestrian lifestyle. Countless farms and ranches sprawl across the county, rich pastures full of gorgeous racing horses and thoroughbreds, meat cattle and more.
Marion County's largest city, Ocala, has been nationally recognized as the horse capitol of America. With a population of approximately 300,000, Marion County Florida is among one of the three fastest growing areas in the United States.
The first horse farm in the Ocala area belonged to Carl G. Rose, but is now occupied by the Paddock Mall and Central Florida Community College.