OCALA, FL (352today.com) – For the past 34 years, the Live Oak International has showcased premier equestrian sports, becoming a cherished tradition in Ocala and Marion County. From March 13-16, top international athletes in show jumping and combined driving will compete, continuing this renowned legacy.
A dedicated team works tirelessly year-round to ensure the event’s seamless execution. This meticulous approach mirrors the Weber family’s commitment to equestrian excellence, evident in Charlotte Weber’s thoroughbred racing, Chloe Reid’s show jumping career, and Chester Weber’s combined driving achievements, including his 21 four-in-hand national championships.
“This event is really a depiction of the different events that we’ve all been exposed to throughout the world competing and trying to take some of the best ideas and take some of our own,” said Chester Weber. “We couldn’t do this without the wonderful help and support of our sponsors or the more than 150 volunteers that make this go on.”
The setting of the Live Oak International uniquely blends world-class competition with a family-friendly atmosphere.
“Of course, it’s horse sport and this is the Horse Capital of the World,” said Weber. “It’s also a place where 352 and this area comes out to enjoy a day in the country with these majestic oak trees and wonderful green lands. If you’re here to come to the Advent Health Kids Zone, or to watch horse sport at the highest level, there’s something for everybody.”
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March 16, 2025, has been proclaimed Chester Weber Day in Ocala and Marion County, honoring Weber’s contributions both as an equestrian and in his unique service revitalizing the caisson program at Arlington National Cemetery.
“It’s a wonderful honor that was bestowed on me,” said Weber. “I’m humbled by it. I was asked by the U.S. Army to get involved with helping to revitalize the caisson program in Arlington. It’s an honor to do that and to honor America’s fallen. There’s no bigger group of people to honor. Arlington is full of big names and people who’ve sacrificed all. It’s humbling, and to be recognized by my community feels good. It’s a way for me to give back a little bit.”
Weber embarked on this transformative journey immediately after the 2024 Live Oak Invitational.
“I had no idea what I was getting into,” Weber explained. “I think within 12 days, 15 soldiers and horses had arrived, and all needed to be trained. We’ve now prepared three squads and plan more. It’s worthy, exciting, and super-fun to help these young horsemen and women to get ready to do such an impactful job.”
Chloe Reid, Weber’s niece, will join him in competition this weekend, notably in the CSI 4* $190,000 Live Oak International presented by Lugano.
“Chester and I go to a lot of amazing competitions every year, and I’m personally walking around and taking photos of even the smallest details that other events put on,” said Reid. “We love that we get to do that and go to these shows, bring it back and try to impress all of my peers in the show jumping world, but also the sponsors who support us, the spectators that come out to watch, and my friends and family.”
Competing locally brings unique pressures for Reid.
“I think Chester said earlier, ‘People think that you have the home field advantage,'” Reid noted. “But I might have a disadvantage because everyone there knows who I am, and they’re watching me. It’s definitely a lot of pressure. My mom says I compete best when there’s a lot riding on my shoulders. It kind of numbs the competition brain for me.”
Reid’s horses, Crossover Four, Chelsea 179, and young Nerlena, will all be competing.
“I’m bringing my horse Crossover Four for the 4*, hopefully aiming for the Grand Prix,” said Reid. “He loves being in Ocala. He loves being at the farm. This is his happy place.”