AEGT Second Live Auditions 2025: HITS Ocala's SHOW GROUNDS A Night of Talent, Magic, and Music!"

March 2025 , Ocala, Florida

For the third year in a row, the lively equestrian community of Ocala came together for the much-anticipated Second Live Auditions of Discover Dressage/American Equestrians Got Talent (AEGT). On March 5th, 2025, Ocala residents and enthusiasts set aside their equestrian duties to gather at the HITS Horse Show—and it was a hit!

The evening was a spectacular showcase of talent, featuring country melodies, mesmerizing magic, soulful pop performances, and a touch of jazz in between.

Ten talented participants took the stage, and performed before the celebrity judges: Matt Martin, Julio Mendoza, Amy Hassinger, Kristina Groselle, and Matt Varney. The event was hosted by the charismatic Margaret Swanson, AEGT’s Mistress of Ceremonies.

Matt Varney, Kristina Groselle, Julio Mendoza, Amy Hassinger and Matt Martin

Allison Aldrich, Jimmy Rook, Harmony Good and Rob Good clinched the coveted Golden Ticket, propelling them to the $10,000 Grand Finale at the Golden Ocala Golf and Equestrian Club on Saturday, April 12th, 2025, 6:30pm

Powerhouse: Allison Aldrich

Returning to the AEGT stage after capturing hearts in last year’s finale, Allison Aldrich once again delivered a powerhouse performance. Known for her strength and perseverance, she did not disappoint. Singing Rachel Platten’s iconic “Fight Song,” Aldrich delivered an electrifying rendition that left the audience breathless. She brought the house down and received the highest score of the night—five perfect 10s from the judges!

Family Business: "The Goods" Set the Stage on Fire

One of the highlights of the night was the incredible family performances, proving that talent truly runs in the genes! First up was Harmony Good, last year’s AEGT 2024 runner-up. She mesmerized the audience with her soulful performance, earning herself a well-deserved spot in the Grand Finale.

Not to be outdone, her father, Rob Good, took the stage next. Delivering an outstanding singing and playing his guitar a Chris Stapleton song he secured a Golden Ticket, setting up an exciting father-daughter showdown at the Grand Finale!

A Touch of Magic: Jimmy Rook’s Unbelievable Act

Jimmy Rook’s magic act wasn’t just another performance—it was a mind-blowing moment that left the audience and judges in awe. Using a Rubik’s Cube, he captivated the crowd with hypnotism. He invited the judges to scramble the Rubik’s Cube themselves, ensuring there were no preset patterns or tricks. Yet with just a flick of his hand, the cube instantly solved itself, leaving everyone gasping in disbelief. His spectacular act earned him a well-deserved Golden Ticket!

Wild Card Winners Announced

The AEGT Committee announced the Grand Finale as Wild Card Winners:

Darby Walker
Jr. Apollon

About the Grand Finale

The Grand Finale promises to be an unforgettable night, celebrating the incredible talents of the Live Audition winners.

More than just a competition, the event supports a great cause, with proceeds benefiting the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) Emerging Athlete Program, which nurtures young equestrian talent.