On Saturday, November 1, during the second installment of the 2025 HITS Ocala Fall Series at the renowned HITS Post Time Farm, the $20,000 USHJA HITS Open Prix took center stage at the Ocala Fall Classic. Riders and spectators alike reveled in the electric atmosphere as top jumper talent delivered thrilling performances in a picturesque Ocala setting. Ultimately, it was Luis Sabino Gonçalves (POR) and his exceptional partner Gallaxia de Ferval Z that stole the spotlight, claiming top honors with a lightning-fast double-clear effort.

Luis Sabino Gonçalves and Gallaxia de Ferval Z stand for their winning presentation of the $20,000 HITS Open Prix. ©ESI Photography

Riders faced a technical track designed by Catsy Cruz (MEX), with only four combinations advancing to the high-stakes jump-off. Setting the tone early, Sabino Gonçalves guided Sigma Stables LLC’s eight-year-old Zangersheide mare (George x Nabab de Rêve) to a blazing time of 38.75 seconds, keeping all the rails intact — nearly two seconds ahead of the runner-up.

Finishing in second place was Annie Bolling (USA) aboard her own Mykonos SCF, a 13-year-old Belgian Warmblood gelding (Bretagne VDL x Acord II), crossing the timers in 40.24 seconds. Timothy Maddrix and Marvelous, Missy Nolen’s seven-year-old KWPN gelding (Eldorado van de Zeshoek x Sam R), rounded out the podium in 42.02 seconds.

Luis Sabino Gonçalves and Gallaxia de Ferval Z. ©ESI Photography

The excitement extended beyond the jumper arena, as on Friday, October 31, hunter riders rode into the spotlight for the $1,000 USHJA National Hunter Derby. Competitors embraced the Halloween spirit, donning creative costumes while impressing judges over a thoughtfully designed course by Doug Russell of Ocala, Florida.

Helen Goddard and Chacorie M stand for their winning presentation of the $1,000 USHJA National Hunter Derby. ©ESI Photography

Helen Goddard captured the win aboard Chacorie M, Anna Corley’s seven-year-old Oldenburg gelding by Chacoon Blue, with a two-round total score of 166. Charlotte Mack and Mithras ADB, Deborah Ball’s 13-year-old Belgian Warmblood gelding (Virgo d’Arsouilles x Heartbreaker), earned second place with a 163, while Afton Chmela and her own Nu Castle, a 12-year-old Belgian Warmblood gelding (Crown Affair x Silvio I), finished third on a score of 150.

Helen Goddard and Chacorie M ©ESI Photography

With the Fall Series now complete, anticipation builds for the upcoming HITS Ocala Holiday Series, set to kick off December 10, promising even more top-tier sport and festive excitement at Post Time Farm.