Mark Wahlberg Embraces New Florida Resident Status at Pegasus World Cup
Mark Wahlberg, recently dubbed a “new Florida man” following his high-profile relocation to the Sunshine State, took center stage at Gulfstream Park on Saturday for the 10th anniversary of the Pegasus World Cup. The 54-year-old actor and entrepreneur served as the official starter for the day’s main event in Hallandale Beach, delivering the traditional “Riders up!” command to a sold-out crowd of over 10,000 racing enthusiasts.
Wahlberg’s appearance at the track follows his purchase of a $37 million estate in Delray Beach’s exclusive Stone Creek Ranch late last year. The move marks another significant shift for the Boston native, who previously relocated his family from Hollywood to Las Vegas in 2022. Real estate analysts have cited Florida’s lack of state income tax and business-friendly environment as primary drivers for the recent influx of ultra-high-net-worth individuals, a trend that has drawn both economic praise and local concerns regarding rising property costs for long-time residents.
During the broadcast, Wahlberg seized the moment to bridge his new local status with his deep-rooted allegiances. Before initiating the race, he shouted out “Patriots Nation,” rallying support for the New England Patriots ahead of their AFC Championship clash against the Denver Broncos. “We’re all we got, we’re all we need,” he declared, momentarily turning the Florida track into a satellite of New England fandom.
The event itself, known as one of the richest days in horse racing with a $3 million purse for the main invitational, saw the 7-year-old horse Skippylongstocking upset the field at 21-1 odds. While the Pegasus World Cup is celebrated for blending elite sport with high-end hospitality—featuring pop-up nightclubs and celebrity guests like Kevin O’Leary and Braxton Berrios—the industry continues to navigate complex discussions regarding animal safety. Organizers 1/ST Racing emphasized their commitment to horse care reforms throughout the anniversary celebration, a necessary focus as the sport faces ongoing public scrutiny regarding equine welfare standards.
Wahlberg’s presence at the track aligns with his family’s personal interests; his daughter, Grace, is an accomplished equestrian competitor. However, his swift integration into Florida’s high-society circuit underscores the state’s evolving identity as a haven for celebrity transplants. While fans celebrated the star-studded spectacle, the gathering highlights the widening gap between the state’s luxury enclaves and the everyday reality of its broader population.
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