FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
2nd Annual Children’s Charity Classic Raises $100,000 for Local Children
Horses, Fun, and Philanthropy
Marion County, Fla. The second annual Children’s Charity Classic delivered another inspiring evening of equestrian sport and philanthropy, raising $100,000 to support 10 local children’s charities working to strengthen education, financial stability, and health for families across Marion County.
Held at HITS Post Time Farm, the event brought together members of the equine community, local businesses, philanthropists, and nonprofit leaders to celebrate the power of collaboration and generosity in support of children and ALICE families in the region.
Presented with the support of returning Grand Prix Sponsor HCA Florida Healthcare, the Children’s Charity Classic once again transformed the excitement of hunter-jumper competition into meaningful community impact.
This year’s competition featured riders and horses competing in spirited fashion while dressed in costumes inspired by classic board games, creating an entertaining and family-friendly experience for attendees. Each of the 10 participating charities was paired with a rider, with funding distributed based on their final placement in the competition.
At the end of the evening, the following proceeds were awarded to the following benefitting charities:
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Kimberly’s Center for Child Protection – $30,000
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Episcopal Children’s Services – $15,000
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The Pearl Project – $10,000
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Community Partnership Schools – $8,000
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Strong Families – $7,500
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Grateful Hearts – $7,000
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CASA Marion – $6,000
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Cornerstone School – $5,500
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ReadingPals – $5,500
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SMA Healthcare – $5,500
Kimberly’s Center for Child Protection received a $15,700 fundraising bonus during the evening’s competition, in addition to their competition winnings. Represented by Team Battleship and sponsored by E-One, the organization received a total of $45,700, thanks to the generosity of donors and supporters.
The Children’s Charity Classic was originally envisioned by United Way’s Vice President of Resource Development, Niki Tripodi, as a signature community event that reflects the organization’s culture of collaboration and impact. Staff and volunteers worked together to bring that vision to life, creating a unique event that blends Ocala’s equestrian heritage with a powerful charitable mission.
In many ways, the event represents a return to the community’s roots. One of the founders of the local United Way in 1961 was Bonnie Heath, whose horse Needles won the Kentucky Derby. Today, the Children’s Charity Classic honors that legacy by using the region’s equestrian identity to support the next generation.
In just two years, the Children’s Charity Classic has raised more than $225,000, with much of the support coming from new donors who have embraced the event’s vision for community impact.
Local and international guests also helped make the evening memorable, including professional golfer Louis Oosthuizen, winner of The Open Championship, who joined community leaders and supporters in celebrating the event.
“In two short years, United Way’s Children’s Charity Classic has moved from a vision to a community legacy event benefiting children in Marion County,” Haight said.
Event organizer Niki Tripodi and volunteer chair Kourtney Corcoran helped bring the event to life with the guiding motto HFP: Horses, Fun, and Philanthropy, capturing the spirit of the evening and the mission behind it.
With strong community support and growing momentum, organizers believe the Children’s Charity Classic will continue to expand its impact for years to come.
Mark your calendars for the 2027 Children’s Charity Classic in February.
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