Wellington, FL – February 6, 2014 – The first of two February Tuesday afternoon Citrus Series Horse Shows at Jim Brandon Equestrian Center at Okeeheelee Park got off to a brisk start. The jumps were set at 2’3″ and by the end of the show were raised to 1.40m, accommodating all levels of horses and riders.  The unrated show was developed by rider, trainer and Wellington Quarantine owner James Lala. 

The show was created to answer the requests Lala has heard from trainers, owners and riders over the years. He believes it is the perfect setting for trainers to bring their developing horses for a stress-free outing and for amateurs to gain confidence over both hunter and jumper courses. In addition, the option for warm-ups and do-overs mean accomplishing a great deal in one show experience. 

“This is the best idea to have this horse show,” said Eduardo Salas of Rancho Santa Teresita in Wellington, FL. “James always does a really good job. This way we can give our horses experience from the lower classes for the young horses and all the way to 1.40m.”

Citrus Series calls their show series ridiculously affordable, includes free ship-ins and is conveniently located minutes from the WEF show grounds. There are no office or grounds fees and permanent day stalls are available. It is the ideal, affordable competition series for developing horses and riders.and the perfect way to prepare developing horses and for building confidence in riders for the bigger, AA circuits, like WEF. 

“This horse just arrived from Europe a month ago,” said Salas about his gray gelding, Calico.  “And it is the second horse show that he’s been to and he did really well.”

A group of spectators enjoyed snacks while they watched amateurs and top riders like Maarten Huygens, Darragh Kerins and Nick Dello Joio ride developing horses.

“I was pleasantly surprised to see some of our top riders there with their green prospects,” said Nancy Whitehead, the internationally known trainer from the Chicago area. “The footing, jumps and courses were quite nice. I had a great time watching.”

Citrus Series shows are held at Jim Brandon Equestrian Center at Okeeheelee Park, a wonderful facility offering great footing, permanent stalls, plenty of parking and permanent restrooms. Citrus Series offers unique features to provid e the opportunity for horses and riders to leave the ring with a positive learning experience.

Citrus Series February Tuesday returns on Feb.18 and will hold its regular monthly show on Friday and Saturday, February 21-22 all at Jim Brandon Equestrian Center