Member and Sponsor in the Spotlight: Mary Phelps

We met Mary Phelps and her husband, Wayne Humphreys, back in 2019. Their farm in Micanopy was located near the proposed site of the Double Gate ATV Park Special Use Permit that we were working to stop at the County level. Phelps quickly got involved, using her media prowess and connections to help spread the word. At the hearing, she provided testimony and written statements that, along with a lot of other voices, resulted in a permit denial. As a member and now a Sponsor of Conversations About Conservation – Summit 2021 coming up on November 23 – she has made it clear that she recognizes the connection between farmland preservation and the continuation of a healthy equine economy in Ocala/Marion County.

“The very nature of the eco system in this region of Florida has a deep connection with the earliest settlers in our country, says Phelps. “Rich soil, pure natural water sources, and a climate where wildlife and vegetation thrive. To own a piece of this magical combination has given me a deeper sense, and a more urgent awareness of how important it is to preserve and protect. The work of Horse Farms Forever is a needed entity for all who live, work, play, compete and train here. They need and deserve our support,” she concludes.

Like many who live and compete here, the horse industry is both her passion and her business. An equine insurance agent, photographer, and journalist, Phelps created HorsesDaily.com (est. 1997) the oldest and longest running website in equestrian sport. A lifelong equestrian she is an FEI 3* Athlete in Combined Driving. Together with her husband, Phelps manages and trains her world class driving ponies, competing worldwide at the highest level of the sport of Combined Driving. 

Doing business as an insurance agent from her farm, Phelps and longtime associate, Tracey Scharf, are accessible and available for their clients. Working closely with their Markel team of underwriters on a daily basis, they provide hands on service and communication addressing their clients’ specific needs. The team also provides top-notch service for farrier coverage through Markel’s Farrier program.

“We understand the busy lives our friends and clients live, and strive to make things as easy and clear as possible,“ says Phelps. “With technology we are pretty much in touch 24/7, and understand the needs of our fellow athletes, horse, and farm owners.”