Building Your Dream Life at TerraNova
Settled between the winding Myakka River and whispering trees, Florida's rugged beauty meets refined elegance at TerraNova. Beyond the stone gates lies the ideal place to craft a dream life atop a canvas of luxury and leisure in a community poised to transform inspiration into reality.
TerraNova Equestrian Center stands as a beacon for those who cherish equestrian pursuits. Its state-of-the-art facilities and scenic setting provide an unparalleled environment for horse enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike. Founded by the Herrig and Ketelboeter families, TerraNova blends three pillars -- purity of sport, harmony with nature and commitment to excellence -- to serve visitors who hold their passion for horses close to their hearts.
“Our vision for TerraNova originated as a place for riders of all levels to enjoy a world-class horse show experience in a relaxed atmosphere. The vision has evolved and expanded over time to create a place to live the ultimate equestrian lifestyle.”
Over time, the equestrian venue has added more layers to achieve this vision. Adjacent to the sprawling venue is a unique equestrian community, The Estates at TerraNova, an exclusive enclave of sophisticated homes, blending comfort with opulence to create a tranquil sanctuary. For those building in The Estates, or equestrians looking for a top-tier training program with excellent care and grand amenities, there is The Stables at TerraNova.
To share the joy of horses with an extended reach, Equilibrium at TerraNova was founded to bring horses, community and friendship to equestrians and horse enthusiasts within the local community. With Equilibrium, various opportunities are offered to children and adults to foster their personal growth in a supportive environment.
Complementing this serene outdoor lifestyle is Miakka Golf Club, a golfer's retreat that promises both relaxation and challenge to its members with two miles of frontage along the Myakka River and hundreds of mature oak hammocks. This passion project for Chief Executive Officer Steve Herrig marries the ultimate golf experience with the breathtaking beauty of the local landscape.
Together, these properties offer a harmonious blend of peace and pleasure, and an exceptional backdrop for a lifestyle rich in experiences and natural tranquility. Located in equal distance to both Wellington and Ocala, TerraNova is perfectly situated within Florida's equestrian trifecta, and is poised as an ideal "home base" for competitors both seasonally and year-round.
Horses at the Heart
Opened in 2021, TerraNova Equestrian Center is a premier destination serving equestrians and equestrian enthusiasts from around the world. Home to an ever-growing calendar of competitions spanning dressage, three-day eventing, combined driving, hunters, jumpers and equitation, the venue is bringing a boutique experience to international level events. Boasting state-of-the-art permanent stabling, six all-weather arenas with impeccable footing, footed horse paths, and an expanding cross-country course, the facility believes in putting the horse first.
"The experience is as important as the quality of what has been built," said Molly Oakman, President at TerraNova Equestrian Center. "In the highly-competitive Florida Equestrian market. TerraNova is unique in providing a world-class facility with high-level competition and the beauty of nature and peacefulness of the area.”
Family-friendly events and the famed TerraNova Tiny Town offer opportunities for children to connect with the world around them. On-site lodging, an executive chef and kitchen, and a stunning pavilion with 360-degree views offer an elevated hospitality experience for visitors.
“We are fortunate to have substantial growth in the equestrian industry with more venues growing and more jobs being created to support the expanding competition schedule for a variety of disciplines. We plan to continue to be a leader in technology, competition surfaces, venue improvements, and amenities while focusing on the overall experience for all. It’s all part of our mission to serve all levels of equestrian competitors, equally. From novice riders, young horse development, to the adult amateur and FEI level competitor.”
With its park-like views and serene setting, TerraNova Equestrian Center has become a draw for riders to enjoy competition in a relaxed environment. "Gree space and natural harmony have a significant impact on both horses and riders in a competitive environment," said Director of Sport, Mike Belisle. "The presence of these elements creates a peaceful and calming atmosphere, reducing stress levels for both horses and riders. This harmony fosters a positive mindset and enhances the overall experience, leading to improved performance and well-being."
For international dressage competitor, Karen Lipp, the natural environment and horse-friendly atmosphere proved to be a winning combination for her and her horse, Infinity. In April 2024, the pair won their Grand Prix Freestyle in their CD13 debut. "This is the prettiest place I've ever been," Lipp said after finishing her victory lap, "The thing I really love about it is it feels peaceful, and wildlife and horses like it instead of feeling like you're encased in a stadium."
The Stables at TerraNova
Operating on-site year-round, The Stables at TerraNova, a private boarding and training program, offers discerning equestrians of all backgrounds luxurious accommodations for their equine partners with access to incredible training and competition opportunities. At its core, The Stables at TerraNova is dedicated to blending an atmosphere of individualized support with community and camaraderie.
“A supportive environment enriches the equestrian experience. The Stables takes pride in supporting all equine enthusiasts regardless of skill level to ensure they are well-supported in a healthy environment to foster a unique bond with their equine partners.”
Equilibrium at TerraNova
Equilibrium at TerraNova is a new program born out of the desire to seek balance, physically and mentally, with equines -- to reach "equi"librium. Led by Director of Equine Programs, Libby Neily, Equilibrium at TerraNova is the newest addition for humans, inspired by horses.
“With horses being prey animals, their senses are naturally heightened. They can feel your emotional energy from even a great distance. Mindfulness helps us build emotional intelligence and teaches us how to shift our energy to gain their trust.”
Using a proprietary curriculum from The Mindful Horse, Equilibrium at TerraNova offers learning opportunities for children and adults to introduce, develop, and strengthen their connection with horses. "Balancing our love of the sport while keeping our relationship with the horse front and center is something I am deeply passionate about, "Neilly continued. "Having these conversations as riders helps us keep a healthy perspective and enjoy the journey rather than be overly focused on the outcome."
A Community of Life and Love
For those who seek to plant their roots and nourish their passions at TerraNova, The Estates at TerraNova offers the opportunity to build dreams from the ground up.
“The extension of The Estates is an opportunity for residents to take the TerraNova vision to a new level. It’s not just a great weekend at a horse show anymore, it’s a lifestyle. The Estates at TerraNova project was inspired by the desire to build a like-minded community of equestrians, as well as expand on the concept of our three pillars to create a generational project that will highlight and preserve the area in a unique way.”
On its premium land, each lot in The Estates is configured to offer the utmost functionality while maintaining natural green spaces that put horses and humans at ease. Over 300 acres will be available for residents and boarders to enjoy a hike or horseback ride on manicured trails or more challenging riverside terrain. Fronting properties on one side of the road are bridle paths that will connect each lot, perfect for hacking.
Carefully hand-selected, The Estates at TerraNova features custom builders who reinforce this vision through their prime craftsmanship. "It was important to us to offer a cureated list of high-quality custom builders because we want the commmunity to reflect the commitment to excellence that we have shown on the project to date," Herrig Ketelboeter said. "We also want each estate to be unique and reflect personal style while complementing the community."
In addition to its proximity to TerraNova Equestrian Center, The Estates at TerraNova offers top-tier benefits at the amenity center, including sports courts for tennis and pickleball, a gym with cutting-edge exercise equipment, and a resort-style pool, suited for those seeking a rejuvenating retreat to boost their health and well-being.
The Estates at TerraNova can accommodate a diverse range of residents, including young families, retired equestrian enthusiasts, and individuals involved in training and boarding businesses. Farm ownership is made easy through community services such as manure removal, pasture management, and convenient deliveries by TerraNova Feed and Fence, a one-stop source for quality nutrition, shavings and supplies.
Away from It All And Close to Everything
Situated equidistant from Florida's other equestrian venues, TerraNova is only a three-hour drive from both Ocala and Wellington. This, alongside the offerings in nearby Sarasota and Manatee counties, makes Myakka City an ideal home base for serious equestrian competitors.
Northwest of TerraNova lies Lakewood Ranch, the #1 multi-generational community in the U.S. for six years running. This thriving community offers daily conveniences, family events, and a growing array of culinary cuisine. The Sarasota Polo Club, just fifteen minutes from TerraNova, pays homage to the decades of horse heritage in the area, combining equestrian enthusiasm with social entertainment.
Surrounding TerraNova is beautiful Myakka City, a respite from the chaos of modern life. With the Myakka River State Park, known for its unique flora and fauna, just minutes away, Myakka City reminds all who visit to take a moment to breathe in the sights, sounds and fresh air.
Photo Source: https://lwrmainstreet.com/
Miakka Golf Club
Opening in 2025, Miakka Golf Club will feature a golf course unique to Florida. Created to mimic the great Australian Sandbelt courses like Royal Melbourne, Miakka will be walkable and thrilling to play, with the correct balance of challenge and fun.
“This is one of the best natural sites for golf and one of the best teams we’ve ever been affiliated with.”
For decades, golf courses have been criticized for using too much water and too many man-made products to keep them playable. Miakka is pushing back on that by utilizing two types of Zoysia grass, Laser and Stadium, grown across the street at Miakka Turf. The course will have a better playing surface that is more considerate of the environment.
"If we can create a golf course that is more fun to play and takes less water to maintain, then that's exactly what we should do," said Steve Herrig.
The facility will include a short course, incredible practice and training facilities, and a clubhouse.
In terms of its exclusive, invitation-only membership, Herrig said, "The biggest criteria is to just be a good person. The person who belongs here will. have a great appreciation for good golf. We are building an epic golf course, and we will capture the history of Old Miakka."
A Celebration of Luxury and Tranquility
On this land, every day unfolds within the grasp of natural beauty and premier amenities. Dreams find their perfect setting, transforming each morning into a living celebration of luxury and tranquility, with each nightfall bringing a satisfied fulfillment.
“These days, we are constantly bombarded with the need and expectation to do everything all at once and have it done yesterday, but horses don’t work that way. I think that’s why I am personally attracted to preserving the equestrian lifestyle. It forces you to live in the present moment and appreciate the journey of reaching a goal, not just the end result. I also believe the best way to experience nature is thought the ears of a horse, and there is so much nature to explore on horseback at TerraNova.”