Edited Press Release
OCALA, FL (March 13, 2025) – Live Oak International, America’s largest combined driving and show jumping tournament, kicked off today in Ocala, FL. The day commenced with the Intermediate Driving Dressage class, including divisions for both Single Pony and Pony Pair, as well as Horse Pair and Single Horse, which saw the most entries for the day.
Tim Novak claimed victory in the Single Horse division with his horse, Mister Chip, receiving a score of 55.28. Thorsten Zarembowicz and Nicellie placed second with a score of 56.88, and Pat Mann and Korenda took third place with a score of 60.16.
The afternoon’s Bridlewood Farms FEI Driving Dressage (2* & 3*) was highlighted by Chester C. Weber placing first in the FEI Horse Team division. Weber and his team comprised of horse’s Kadora, Nico Teusje, First Edition and Julius V, coming through with an impressive score of 36.88. The score puts Chester and his team in the lead heading into Saturday’s marathon.
“I’m thrilled with how the horses performed today, it is always a bit of an unknown on the first day but I’m happy with the start we’ve made. I truly feel that on their day these four horses are one of the best teams in the world and the results sort of speak for themselves,” said Chester C. Weber.
“At Live Oak International, our team faces challenges, same as all the others. You really never know what is going to happen when you introduce elements like crowds and atmosphere that you simply can’t account for in training. But at the same time that is the essence of these competitions, facing challenges head-on and seeing what team can adjust and react best. So for the rest of the weekend, we will just take it one step at a time and see where we are on Sunday.”
Driving dressage continues tomorrow with the Youth and the Intermediate Single Pony divisions on Friday, March 14th, ahead of the thrilling Marathon phase on Saturday, March 15th. Jumping also kicks off tomorrow with the CSI4* $63,000 Live Oak International Qualifier expected to be the highlight of the day.
Tickets and VIP packages are available. Buy your tickets HERE. For all of today’s results, visit HERE.
About
What began 34 years ago as a driving event in Ocala, Live Oak International, has grown into a world-class equestrian event. Now run by Co-Presidents Chester C. Weber and his niece, Chloe D. Reid, the tournament is the only in the United States to offer both international combined driving and show jumping at the same competition. As one of Marion County’s largest spectator events, more than 15,000 spectators attend the four-day tournament to watch the competition by athletes from around the globe. In addition to the combined driving and show jumping competition, Live Oak International hosts many hospitality opportunities and a flourishing vendor area available to the public. For more information, please visit www.liveoakinternational.com.
