We hear a lot about big-time Sarasota sports events, from spring training to world rowing championships. It’s worth taking a look at a local sports gem that may not garner as much publicity but nevertheless features fierce competition among champions: Fox Lea Farm in Venice.

Hosting horse shows more than 40 weeks a year, and drawing participants in hunting, jumping and dressage, Fox Lea pumps millions into the local economy each year. And that number may go up now that the equestrian facility has launched a six-week winter circuit, the Venice Equestrian Tour. Operations manager Kim Aldrich-Farrell hopes to have 300 to 400 horses competing over long weekends Feb. 3-7, Feb. 10-14, Feb. 17-21, Feb. 24-28 and March 2-6.

It can be pricey to compete, but you can enjoy the action for just $5 with “Friday Night Lights” on tour weekends. Families can stroll the grounds and enjoy music, food and horsemanship. Info: foxleafarm.com, (941) 809-6365.