With an all star cast of local community leaders being coached by Olympians, legendary jockeys and trainers, and celebrity judge: Lisa Niemi Swayze, Actor, Director, & Author, The Black Stallion Reading Project takes center stage in Arena 1 at the World Equestrian Center, Monday night, January 30, 2023 at 6 PM. 

The Black Stallion Reading Project is a five-year partnership program of the Ocala Horse Alliance and the Public Schools of Marion County. Each student receives their own copy the Black Stallion book, and in the classroom, an approved reading curriculum uses the magic & power of the horse to promote reading. Schools are partnered with an area horse farm.

Participants and their coaches

• Superintendent Gullett, coached by Aaron Vale, Leading Grand Prix Rider
• School Board Member Allison Campbell coached by John Rannenberg, Legendary Arabian Trainer
• School Board Member Lori Conrad coached by Jacinto Vasquez, Hall of Fame Jockey
• School Board Member Reverend Cummings coached by Karen O’Connor, Silver Medal Olympian Eventing
• School Board Member Dr. Sarah James coached by Lauren Barwick, Gold & Silver Medal Paralympian
• School Board Member Nancy Thrower coached by Abby Fuller, Renowned Female Jockey
• Mayor of Ocala, Kent Guinn coached by Pat Parelli, Natural Horsemanship Icon
• Ocala’s Sheriff Billy Woods coached by Don Stewart, Famous Hunter Trainer and Judge