Wordley Martin Arena Renovations Earn Rave Reviews at HITS Post Time Farm
The new HITS Post Time Farm arenas, designed and built by Wordley Martin, a leading developer of equestrian properties and premier riding surfaces, are proving to be a highlight of the 2023 HITS Ocala Winter Circuit for top jumper and hunter riders. The HITS renovation project marks the second foray into competition venue design for co-founders of Wordley Martin, Sharn Wordley and Craig Martin. Wordley Martin is already highly respected in the private arena construction industry and works with riders in the Olympic disciplines of show jumping, dressage, and eventing.
Wordley Martin’s HITS Post Time Farm project featured a complete overhaul of both the Grand Prix Arena and Main Hunter Arena as well as the corresponding warm-up rings. Wordley Martin’s premium equestrian surface footing was installed, and several structural improvements were made, including upgraded drainage systems and overall size expansions. The Wordley Martin team took special care to preserve the unique character of the arenas by showcasing the iconic granddaddy oak trees in the two competition arenas, which are both more than 100 years old.
Halfway through the winter competition season, the property improvements have drawn many of the best professional jumper and hunter competitors to the facility. Commenting on the quality of the new footing, star grand prix rider Aaron Vale was impressed that even in inclement weather, the new Grand Prix Arena remained in pristine condition.
“It’s amazing,” he said after his win in the $25,000 SmartPak Grand Prix on February 3, 2022. “The arena is very pretty to look at, and the footing is super. Even with the amount of rain we’ve had today, the footing was perfect. Great conditions for show jumping!”
Hunter riders are also reaping the benefits of the unique Wordley Martin footing, which is a proprietary sand mixture that incorporates textiles, engineered to support every footfall.
“The Main Hunter Arena looks beautiful,” expressed International Hunter Derby champion Jennifer Alfano after her reserve championship in the 3’3” Green Hunters on February 2, 2023. “They really have done a great job.”
Accomplished rider and trainer Bobby Braswell, who operates his Terrapin Hill Farm near the show in Ocala, Florida, added, “I think that the Main Hunter Arena is now one of the best riding rings in the country because of the size and the footing. They breathed new life into this horse show.”
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