THE QUALITY FOXHOUND • HONORING DENNIS FOSTER • HOUND SHOW GUIDE
THE MAGAZINE OF MOUNTED FOXHUNTING
SPRING 2017 • $5.00
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The beautifully groomed 298 acres of this thoroughbred horse breeding & training farm rests at the edge of Middleburg. The gently rolling land includes a stately manor home, tenant homes, Confederate Hall, the barns and 6 furlong training track. The Georgian Style Training Barn is stunning and includes 28 stalls and a 1/8 mile indoor training track & paddocks. $9,950,000
Magnificent horse property in the midst of the serene countryside. From the picturesque Young Road two driveways access the 107 acres of Hidden Trail Farm. The first leads to one of the finest indoor arenas surrounded by exquisite ride out. The second is the graceful, park-like drive, which parallels a creek and then gently curves up to the elegant manor home. $6,500,000
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A graceful & charming 5 bedroom French Country home is set amongst nearly 40 serene acres enhanced by majestic trees, rolling lawns and fenced paddocks. This wonderful horse property also includes an 7 stall center-aisle barn with office, additional 4 stall barn with apartment, indoor arena, and tremendous ride out potential. Located in the OCH Territory. $3,500,000
Breathtaking mountain views and glistening spring fed 10 acre lake, create a magical setting for this stunning historic estate. Encompassing over 180 gorgeous acres features include a stone and stucco 16 room residence with an ultra modern gourmet kitchen, new tiled baths and separate 2 bedroom guest wing. The 10 stall stable & new tennis court complete this fabulous estate. $3,200,000
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A picturesque and tranquil retreat nestled on 158+ acres in pristine Rappahannock County. At the end of the private drive is the historic Stone residence. Property also features and additional stone guest cottage/office and a charming and beautifully restored 2 bedroom log cabin. Gardens, lawn, barns, paddocks and ride out provide an outdoor haven. $1,845,000
The 176 Acre Estate is approx. 1 mile east of Berryvile. An allee of mature Maple trees line the long driveway of the manor house, c. 1819, listed in the National Register as, “One of Clarke County’s most elegant, intact examples of the Federal style of architecture.” The brick home offers 11’ ceiling height, original flooring, moldings, gracious entertaining rooms, 3 bedrooms and 3+ baths. $1,700,000
rALLywooD
World class equestrian facility comprised of 115 Acres in the OCH Territory. The U shaped complex encompasses an 80’ x 180’ lighted indoor riding arena connected by a breezeway to the 12 stall center-aisle barn and extraordinary living and entertaining quarters overlooking the outdoor ring. Additional structures include tenant houses and large heated equipment barn. $4,750,000
Deer creek
Exquisite 4 Bedroom, 4 Bath Colonial on 25 acres offering privacy & seclusion. The 3 level main residence includes 4 fireplaces, pine floors, Living Room, Dining Room, Family Room, study & a fabulous gourmet kitchen, all in pristine condition.The manicured grounds incl. a charming 2 Bedroom Guest house, free form pool, 4 stall barn, 5 paddocks, lg equip.building, blue stone arena. $1,975,000
riDgeView
This lovely 22.8 Acre farm offers a private, 4 bedroom residence sited on a knoll, with spacious rooms and views into the trees that border Little River. Located in prime Orange County Hunt territory the horse facilities include a 6 stall barn with tack room and wash stall, machine shed, run in shed and 4 beautiful board fenced paddocks, fields and round pen. VOF Easement. $1,350,000
LAND
oAkTHorPe
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HOPEWELL ROAD - 82.99 acres with access from either The Plains Road or Hopewell Road. Nice elevation and several options for house sites. 15 Acres cleared with amazing view potential. Includes a certification letter for a 5 Bedroom septic system. Property is in Easement and cannot be further subdivided. $1,150,000
Beautiful 4 bedroom, 5 bath home on over 50 acres with incredible views in all directions. Perfect for horse enthusiasts or great for enjoying country living. Elegant living spaces perfect for parties. Fencing, convertible barn, water features, lush gardens, covered porches and decks for outdoor entertaining and much more. ODH Territory. $1,249,000
MAIDSTONE ROAD - 54.21 Acres with pond~Land, half pasture, half wooded with Goose Creek Frontage. Mountain and Pastural Views with pond and multiple house sites with elevation and perfect location with easy access to I-66. Piedmont Hunt Territory. $867,345 PAXSON ROAD - 65.03 acres just south of Purcellville. Ideal setting for a countryside estate, equestrian farm or working farm. Quiet & peaceful with rock walls, running stream, electric, well, 5 BD septic permit, Open Space Conservation Easement. $635,000
The stately mansion is sited on 8½ acres within the town limits of The Plains, VA. The size of the home and its room sizes lends itself beautifully for hosting large events. The foyer measures 48’ x 11’. The zoning allows for potential division rights or potential tax $1,200,000 credits. Convenient to Exit 31 of I-66.
Offers subject to errors, omissions, change of price or withdrawal without notice. Information contained herein is deemed reliable, but is not so warranted nor is it otherwise guaranteed.
(540) 270-0094 THOMAS AND TALBOT REAL ESTATE (540) 687-6500
Middleburg, Virginia 20118
www.Thomas-Talbot.com
Page 26
Juding hound quality demands fairness and knowledge.
SPRING 2017 • VOLUME 8, NUMBER 1
Features 18
A GOOD HOUND NEVER LOSES THE LINE BY MARTHA DRUM
Dennis Foster leaves a legacy of service and advocacy.
22
THE HISTORY OF MFHA’S NEW HOME BY CHRISTOPHER OAKFORD
The new headquarters have their own tale to tell.
26
THOUGHTS ON JUDGING BY C. MARTIN WOOD III
Part II: It’s all about quality.
IN EACH ISSUE: From the Executive Director p.2
8
16
THE CLUB News from hunt clubs around the country. YOUNG ENTRY Three giddy girls show hounds at the Carolinas Hound Show.
From the Publisher p.4
MFHA News p.6
32
BETTER RIDING Foxhunting friendships are forever.
34
FARE & FLASK Splendid fare at Tryon’s Centerline Ridge Farm hunt breakfast.
36
THE FIND Clever and creative must-haves for foxhunters.
38
Last Run of the Day p.40
LIBRARY Adventures of a longtime foxhunter, told with wit and charm.
ON OUR COVER: Dennis Foster flies the wire at a meet in New Zealand, during the International Union of Hunting with Hounds meeting. Photo by Lorraine Meagher.
SPRING 2017 | 1
FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Serving Foxhunters
I
2 | COVERTSIDE
www.mfha.com
OFFICERS
Patrick A. Leahy, MFH • President Leslie Crosby, MFH •First Vice-President Penny Denegre, MFH •Second Vice-President Joseph Kent, ex-MFH • Secretary-Treasurer David Twiggs • Executive Director
MFHA FOUNDATION
Tony Leahy, MFH • President PO Box 363, Millwood, VA 22646 (540) 955-5680
HUNT STAFF BENEFIT FOUNDATION Nancy Stahl, MFH • President PO Box 363, Millwood, VA 22646 (540) 955-5680
COVERTSIDE EDITORIAL BOARD EMILY ESTERSON
would first like to say thanks for the warm welcome and that I look forward to meeting many more of you in the future. It has been said that there are as many opinions as there are foxhunters and I have enjoyed the many opportunities for conversation about how foxhunters — both members and nonmembers, view the MFHA. It is clear that to build a strong future, we must better engage the foxhunter, serve our membership well, and educate potential hunters and the public. This is vital if we are to grow the sport and be relevant to future generations. To these ends, we have been intensively planning new initiatives that are shaping into reality as we speak. We are moving forward on our new headquarters and museum located in Middleburg, Virginia, as a means of engaging our members, future hunters, and supporters. For the MFHA, this facility will host seminars, classes and district meetings for the general membership, professional development, and hunt staff on topics designed to improve standards of hound care and the operation of hunts. For the public, this will be the face of foxhunting. It will be our point of contact for the media and the public, showcasing our rich history while educating about foxhunting and the values of the country lifestyle. Your support of this project is greatly appreciated. Another goal is to grow our membership base. Currently only about 50 percent of those hunters that are individual hunt members are Subscribing Members of the MFHA. We want to serve all mounted fox-
MASTERS OF FOXHOUNDS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA
Leslie Crosby, MFH Penny Denegre, MFH Emily Esterson • Editor-in-Chief Patrick A. Leahy, MFH David Twiggs, Executive Director
DIRECTORS
hunters and our supporters. Please help us as we shape these efforts by inviting these friends and supporters to become Subscribing Members and by letting us know how to serve you better. These are exciting times and we appreciate your ideas, support, and participation. I look forward to seeing you at the shows, events and in the field this coming year. Happy hunting,
W. David Twiggs Executive Director and Keeper of the Studbook, MFHA
Canada • Charlotte McDonald, MFH Carolinas • Fred Berry, MFH Central • Arlene Taylor, MFH Great Plains • Dr. Luke Matranga, MFH Maryland-Delaware • John McFadden, MFH Midsouth • Bill Haggard, MFH Midwest • Keith Gray, MFH New England • Dr. Terence Hook, MFH New York-New Jersey • Yolanda Knowlton, MFH Northern Virginia-West Virginia • Tad Zimmerman, MFH Pacific • Terry Paine, MFH Pennsylvania • Sean Cully, MFH Rocky Mountain • Mary Ewing, MFH Southern • Mercer Fearington, MFH Virginia • Bob Ferrer, MFH Western • John P. Dorrier Jr., MFH At Large Dr. John R. van Nagell, MFH At Large • Dr. G. Marvin Beeman, MFH At Large • Ed Kelly, MFH
COVERTSIDE (ISSN 1547-4216) is published quarterly (February, May, August and November) by the Masters of Foxhounds Association 675 Lime Marl Lane, Berryville, VA 22611. Periodical Postage Paid at Winchester, VA 22601 and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to MFHA, PO Box 363, Millwood, VA 22646. COVERTSIDE READERS: Direct all correspondence to the same address. Tel: (540)955-5680. Website: www.mfha.com
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FROM THE PUBLISHER
SPRING 2017
Change is in the Air
A
ROBERT KORNACKI
s I write this, I’m just back from the annual New York weekend. It’s two days steeped in tradition, from the Masters’ Dinner at the Union Club, to the annual meeting, to the Masters’ Ball, it’s a time to gather with our foxhunting family and celebrate the year, our traditions and our sport.
This year tradition reigned as usual, but with one exception: We honored the service of Dennis Foster, the outgoing executive director who has served for a quarter of a century. He’s done wonders for the sport of foxhunting, creating a nerve center for the promotion and preservation of the sport. Dennis has been actively involved in Covertside as well, and his wise counsel has helped to guide us in both our editorial and business decisions. He has always been supportive of
4 | COVERTSIDE
the magazine, a contributor who provided both ideas and articles, and we will miss him (story page 18). Another great supporter of Covertside is Jack van Nagell, who ended his tenure as president in January. Jack truly embraced the important role that the magazine plays for subscribing members. He started an editorial committee of the board, and provided us with opportunities to cover important stories. Change is difficult, but it is also terribly exciting. It is similar to that moment when the hounds first strike and you hear them give voice — the hair on your arms stands up, your heart quickens, and you prepare for the gallop that’s sure to follow. As Tony Leahy takes the president’s chair, and David Twiggs takes the reins of the association and foundations, and the new building takes shape (page 22), there is much to celebrate about the past, but much to look forward to in the future. By the way, almost every day I get something from a foxhunter: a story, a poem, a photograph, an idea. Keep ’em coming! We’re especially interested in your videos, because we’d love to increase our YouTube channel content. Your submissions make Covertside a great magazine. Happy hunting,
Emily Esterson Editor-in-Chief/Publisher
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/PUBLISHER EMILY ESTERSON publisher@covertside.net 505-553-2671 ART DIRECTOR GLENNA STOCKS production@covertside.net
EDITORIAL ASSOCIATE EDITOR SANDRA MCGINNIS sandy@covertside.net
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS KATY CARTER MARTHA DRUM CHRISTOPHER OAKFORD MICHAEL STERN C. MARTIN WOOD III
ADVERTISING AND MARKETING SALES MANAGER CHERYL MICROUTSICOS sales@covertside.net 434-664-7057 PENNSYLVANIA/MID-ATLANTIC KATHY DRESS kdress@ptd.net NORTHEAST TOM KIRLIN Tkirlin@covertside.net Covertside is the official publication of the Masters of Foxhounds Association Published by E-Squared Editorial Services LLC 2329 Lakeview Rd. SW Albuquerque, NM 87105 Telephone: 505-553-2671 Web Address: www.ecovertside.net www.mfha.com
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MFHA NEWS
4 AT THE JANUARY BOARD
MEETING, held in New York on January 26, the following individuals were elected to membership: Joseph K. Bills, Middleton Place Hounds (C); Lelee Brandt, Millbrook Hunt (NY/NJ); Rob Caldwell, Cedar Knob Hounds (MS); and Jay Moore, Bull Run Hunt (NVA). Why Worry Hounds, in Aiken, South Carolina, and Guilford Hounds in New Hampshire, resigned from membership. There was a changing of the guard for four district director positions, three of whom have been in their positions for six years: Marion Thorne (Genesee Valley) district director for New
4 THE HUNTING HABITAT CONSERVATION AWARD to went to Middleburg Hunt and member Scott Kasprowicz. Left to right: Outgoing President Jack van Nagell, Middleburg Joint Master Penny Denegre, Wood, Middleburg Joint Masters Jeff Blue and Tim Harmon (see story page 10).
York/New Jersey, handed leadership over to Yolanda Knowlton (Goldens Bridge); Laurel Byrne
the leishmaniasis research that
burg, Virginia, and emphasized
(Toronto and North York),
Christy Petersen, DVM, has been
that the building will be “a space
Twiggs addressed the mem-
Canadian district director, will
working on thanks to financial
for all of us.”
bership for the first time,
hand the reins to Charlotte Mc-
support from the MFHA Foun-
Donald (London). In Maryland,
dation. She is close to making
24 years as executive director,
you and learn from you.” He
Sheila Brown (Green Spring
some important breakthroughs
van Nagell outlined the process
outlined his future goals for
Valley) passed on her leader-
in preventing the disease.
to find his successor. From 120
developing the new headquar-
applicants, the search commit-
ters into a center of North
ship role to John McFadden
Thanking Dennis Foster for
Executive Director David
stating he is “excited to serve
(De La Brooke). In the Southern
4 AT THE ANNUAL MEETING
tee ultimately recommended
American foxhunting, building
district, Orrin Ingram (Hillsboro)
in New York City held Friday,
David Twiggs, who van Nagell
on the services offered to sub-
will be replaced by Bill Haggard
January 27, the Masters of Fox-
described as having “a track
scribing members, and plan-
(Mells).
hounds Association members
record of organization build-
ning activities to “celebrate the
voted in Tony Leahy as presi-
ing.” He indicated that these
fellowship of foxhunters.”
Leahy gave a report to the
dent, Leslie Crosby as first vice
skills will enable Twiggs to grow
board about the Professional
president, and Penny Denegre
subscribing membership, sup-
MFHA, then gave an interest-
Development Program, noting
as second vice president. Dr.
port member hunts, facilitate
ing and humorous talk about
that Mason Lampton will take
Jack van Nagell reviewed areas
the development of new hunts,
hound breeding, emphasizing
over leadership of the program
of focus from his tenure. These
and increase the financial base
the importance of the female
now that Tony is MFHA presi-
included improving communi-
of the MFHA.
line, of considering hounds as
dent. This year’s class includes
cation with member hunts and
Sarah Glaser, Woodbrook, Aliina
with the general public; promot-
ing President Tony Leahy, van
or two individual lines, and
Keers, Norfolk, and Kaitlyn
ing land and habitat conserva-
Nagell said, “The MFHA is
working to improve one’s pack,
Kubiak, Orange County Hounds.
tion; supporting the hound
poised to achieve great things
rather than drafting hounds.
To date, the percentage of
shows; encouraging young rid-
in the future under the leader-
He closed by encouraging
graduates continuing in hunt
ers; and continuing to enrich the
ship of our new president.”
foxhunters to promote all the
service is 44 out of 51 (an 86
Professional Development Pro-
Leahy then came forward and
good aspects of our sport:
percent success rate).
gram. He also described plans
blew “gone to ground” before
“Hunting is a serious business,
Also during the meeting,
for the improvement of the new
presenting the horn to van
to be taken lightly.”
the board received a report on
MFHA headquarters in Middle-
Nagell in honor of his service.
Incoming President Tony
6 | COVERTSIDE
As he welcomed incom-
Major Tim Easby, of the UK’s
parts of families, not just one
THE CLUB Gone Away Lasting Legacies
HELEN KRUGERABERCROMBIE, MFH, JUAN TOMAS HOUNDS (1934-2016)
OZANA STURGEON
Championed hunting in the Southwest A TIRELESS AMBASSADOR for
together they contributed to
the New Mexico countryside,
the improvement of tracks and
Helen Kruger-Abercrombie
purses in New Mexico.
passed away on November 8,
Kruger-Abercrombie took up
2016. She was the longest-serv-
foxhunting with Juan Tomas in
ing female Master in the United
her forties, and became Master
States at the time of her death.
a few years later. She relished all
Kruger-Abercrombie incorpo-
the roles this position required:
rated horses and the outdoors
breeding hounds suitable for the
into many areas of her life. She
arid terrain, protecting country,
helped run her family’s guest
and introducing her grandsons
ranch, leading trail rides during
to the hunt field. Widowed in
the day and organizing gracious
1984, she married David Aber-
social functions in the evening.
crombie in 2015. She is survived
With her second husband, Wil-
by Abercrombie, two daughters,
lard Kruger, she participated
several grandchildren, and her
in Quarter Horse racing and
brother and brother-in-law.
DOUGLAS LEES
8 | COVERTSIDE
FREDI GROSSMAN
JESSIE WOODARD
FREDERIC E. GROSSMAN,
MARTHA LOVE,
EX-MFH, SMITHTOWN HUNT (1942-2016)
MFH, BIJOU SPRINGS HUNT (1941-2016)
Led through changing times
Served nearly three decades
FREDERIC GROSSMAN, who
need to adapt from live to drag
MARTHA LOVE, Master at
Valley Hunt Club in Kansas. Bi-
held many leadership positions
hunting and the importance of
Bijou Springs (Colorado) for
jou Springs was formed in 1984,
at Smithtown Hunt (New York),
actively courting landowners to
nearly 30 years, passed away
and she became Master in 1988.
as it transitioned into the 21st
welcome the hunt.
December 1, 2016. She and her
century, passed away at home
In addition to serving as MFH
on Long Island on October 25, 2016. He did not begin hunt-
The Loves also enjoyed ski-
husband, Jerry, a retired Air
ing and traveling, which she
from 2003-2011, Grossman par-
Force officer, settled in Black
continued to pursue after her
ticipated in nearly every element
Forest, Colorado, and raised
husband’s death. Survived by
ing until after college, when he
of a successful club: leading the
Trakehners at their Lovilla farm.
a daughter, son, sister, and
and his wife took it up together,
field, chairing the hunt commit-
They began hunting at Rivers
many grandchildren and great-
but quickly became a valu-
tee, organizing the junior meet,
Divide Hounds, where Jerry
grandchildren, she asked that
able member and advocate. As
coordinating the annual horse
served as honorary secretary
her body be donated to science
Smithtown’s future was threat-
show, whipping-in, even laying
and she whipped-in. Miss
and then cremated, with the
ened by suburban sprawl and
the drag line. He is survived
Martha, as Love was known,
ashes spread over her beloved
changing local attitudes toward
by his wife, two children and a
also hunted with De La Brooke
hunt country at the Lazy K 11
field sports, he recognized the
granddaughter.
Hounds in Virginia and Mission
ranch.
until 1981, the year he stepped
of presidents stagnating in
down as Master at Litchfield
the position. Sherman was an
County.
exceptional leader whose con-
SHERMAN P. HAIGHT, JR., MFH, LITCHFIELD COUNTY HOUNDS (1922-2016)
Contributed at national level
“Most people aren’t aware of Sherman’s tremendous influ-
tributions to foxhunting are a huge part of his legacy.”
ence on the MFHA,” says Den-
Haight continued to work
nis Foster. “He began the very
on behalf of foxhunting, and
popular Biennial Staff Seminars
in 1985 he co-founded the
A LEADER OF MANY eques-
WWII, he became Master at
during his tenure as president.
Museum of Hounds and Hunt-
trian and sporting organiza-
Litchfield County (Connecticut)
As a board member, he got
ing at Morven Park with Joe
tions for decades, Sherman
in 1948. Haight also served as
the board to limit the tenure
Rogers and Paul Krauss. Haight
Haight passed away on October
president of the United States
of any president to no more
is survived by his wife, three
17, 2016. Following his dis-
Pony Clubs from 1961-1964 and
than one term of three years,
daughters, grandchildren,
charge from the U.S. Army after
president of the Masters of Fox-
with up to four years if neces-
great-grandchildren, and a
serving in the South Pacific in
hounds Association from 1978
sary. This stopped the practice
large extended family.
SPRING 2017 | 9
Huntsman Hugh Robards and Middleburg hounds take a break on Goodstone Inn property, which is in easement and located behind Kasprowicz’s land.
ing Habitat Conservation Award at the January MFHA Annual Meeting in New York. Nominated by Middleburg Joint Masters Penny Denegre and Jeff Blue, Kasprowicz’s dedication to the salvation of the thriving rural community in which he lives and hunts is tremendous. “Great things happen when a born leader conceives a gigantic, ambitious plan and thinks beyond what any reasonable COURTESY OF MIDDLEBURG PHOTO
Loving and Saving Loudoun Scott Kasprowicz tirelessly preserves hunt country in his backyard and beyond. BY KATY CARTER
U
person would in their wildest dreams consider achievable,” says Daphne Wood, MFH of Live Oak Hounds and MFHA Conservation Committee Chair. “Such a man is Middleburg member Scott Kasprowicz. Back that vision up with solid support from Masters Jeff Blue and Penny Denegre and all hunts in the Middleburg area benefit in various and numerous ways.” Denegre agrees. “Scott has done and continues to do a terrific job in land preservation,
.S. ROUTE 15 runs for
epicenter of Virginia foxhunting.
Middleburg Hunt has success-
spearheading so many efforts
779 miles from Pennsyl-
Development in eastern Loudoun
fully focused an unbelievable
to keep our country rural land
vania to South Caro-
County exploded in the 1990s
amount of his time and energy
open. We at Middleburg Hunt
lina, of which roughly 30 pass
and 2000s, creating sprawl that
on the preservation of Loudoun’s
are really lucky and just thrilled
through Loudoun County, Virgin-
threatens the historically scenic
history, open space, character
he has been recognized.”
ia. Jeff Blue, Joint Master of Fox-
and agricultural composition
and foxhunting culture.
hounds at the Middleburg Hunt,
of points west to this day. The
describes it as “the proverbial
fight against significant pressure
ments of Kasprowicz have been
says Kasprowicz. “The impact of
line in the sand,” splitting dense-
from developers has remained
recognized by the MFHA, which
development, both commercial
ly populated, suburban eastern
a united community effort,
bestowed upon him and the
and residential, is on farmland,
Loudoun from the rural west, the
and E. Scott Kasprowicz of the
Middleburg Hunt the 2016 Hunt-
woodland and open space. Con-
10 | COVERTSIDE
The extraordinary achieve-
“I am pleased and honored to be recognized by MFHA,”
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purchasing a
convince landowners to place
farm next door to
their properties in easement, of-
the Middleburg
ten taking people for rides in his
Hunt kennels,
helicopter in order to more fully
and struck up a
illustrate how their landholdings
friendship with
fit into the broader rural com-
Joint Master
munity. To date, Kasprowicz’s
Jeff Blue when
leadership in the safeguarding
the two joined
of the open space and habitat
forces to help save
vital to the sport of foxhunting
Stonyhurst, the
has resulted in the preservation
farm on the other
of over 2,200 acres in Middle-
side of the kennel
burg territory alone, including
property, which
the historically significant 1,200-
had been slated
acre Sunny Bank Farm, which
for residential
has been in the same family for
development.
over 150 years.
“Scott had never
A man with vision, Kasprowicz has also applied his energies
ridden before he
toward the preservation of land
moved to Middle-
beyond Loudoun County. He
burg,” laughs Blue.
served on the board of the Pied-
“He had nothing
mont Environmental Council for
to do with hunt-
ten years, six as vice chairman.
ing before we
His contributions to the formation
started working to
of the Stop Sprawl movement
Kasprowicz had never hunted or ridden before moving to Middleburg, but he immersed himself
save Stonyhurst.
resulted in the election of a new
in the Middleburg hunting community, even riding in the Middleburg Christmas parade.
He recognized
county board of supervisors that
the connection
changed the Comprehensive Plan
COURTESY OF MIDDLEBURG PHOTO
hunted or even
servation is critically important to
forestry from the State Uni-
between conservation and hunt-
from a 3-acre minimum lot size
foxhunting and outdoor recre-
versity of New York College
ing. That was just the beginning
to 40 acres in western Loud-
ation, wildlife habitat, watershed
of Environmental Science and
of his preservation work here
oun. When Governor Tim Kaine
health, not to mention the history
Forestry in Syracuse, New York,
and further motivated him to
tapped him as deputy secre-
and culture of open space.”
Kasprowicz developed a thriv-
conserve land.”
tary of transportation in 2006,
“Foxhunters have a unique appreciation of the importance of conservation. Our sport depends on it, and the broader community benefits from it,” remarks newly appointed Middleburg Joint Master Tim Harmon. “Scott has been a tireless advocate for conservation, gathering broad community support for many initiatives that could have failed without his
“We can think of no individual more deserving than Scott to receive recognition. Besides our own hunt, most, if not all, 25 recognized hunts in Virginia have benefitted from the thousands of acres Scott has preserved.” — PE NNY DE NE G RE
skilled and energetic leadership,
Kasprowicz went to work reshaping zoning laws that threatened the countryside, conserving over 400,000 acres of land during Kaine’s governorship. Successive governors Bob McDonnell and Terry McAuliffe continued this tradition, resulting in the preservation of another 287,000 additional acres over the last five years. A founding member of the Virginia League of Conservation Voters and current member
and his passion for doing what
ing and extensive career as an
is possible to preserve our pre-
entrepreneur, public servant,
Hunt Board of Governors since
an integral role in developing
cious habitat.”
and philanthropist. He moved
2004, Kasprowicz has used his
non-partisan strategies to elect
to Middleburg, Virginia, in 1998,
many talents to encourage and
conservation-friendly members of
After earning his degree in
12 | COVERTSIDE
A member of the Middleburg
of the board, Kasprowicz plays
OUR FUTURE
National Headquarters Our future home, Middleburg, VA
OUR NEW HEADQUARTERS WILL BE OPEN TO THE PUBLIC,
and you are a part of our expansion.
• Easy access to public to provide foxhunting information & history
• Located in foxhunting country with over 26 hunts within two hours
• Meeting rooms, class rooms, videos on foxhunting and foxhunting library all in one
MFHA REPRESENTS FOXHUNTING FOR ALL US! Whether you give $5.00 or $5000, you can be a part of our new headquarters, building on our mission to Promote, Preserve, Protect mounted foxhunting for future generations!
• In Historic Middleburg, a quaint civil war town in the heart of Virginia horse country.
Send your tax deductible donation to:
MFHA Foundation, P. O. Box 363, Millwood, VA 22646 Or online at: www.mfha.com Please make the notation “Headquarters Fund” on your check.
They will be
the Virginia House of Delegates
toric sites such as the Aldie Mill,
and Virginia Senate, making the
Mount Zion Church, and Oak Hill,
voices of conservationists heard
where President James Monroe
at the state level.
drafted the Monroe Doctrine.
Kasprowicz put his transporta-
responsible for saving Gilbert’s
ing in the nationally recognized
Corner,” says Blue. “Route 50 is
Route 50 Traffic Calming Project.
the southern border of Middle-
Traffic at the intersection of U.S.
burg Hunt territory, and he
Route 15 and U.S. Route 50, also
succeeded in preventing it from
known as Gilbert’s Corner, re-
being completely destroyed.”
sulted in backups that were miles
In 2013, Kasprowicz assembled
long at peak times. Proposals to
another group of locals, including
widen Route 50 from two lanes
Middleburg Hunt subscribers, to
to four shocked and horrified res-
purchase and conserve a 141-acre
idents, as Route 50 runs through
tract of land immediately to the
the heart of hunt country — from
southeast of Gilbert’s Corner,
Lenah, just east of Gilbert’s Cor-
home for many years to an aban-
ner, west through Middleburg and
doned gas station but now un-
Upperville to Paris. His leadership
dergoing renovation and the site
and knowledge resulted in creat-
of a weekend outdoor market.
ing an alternative to a four-lane
dropping like
“Scott is almost single-handedly
tion policy skills to use partak-
“Scott created the buffer at
highway via the construction of a
Gilbert’s Corner so that develop-
series of roundabouts that have
ment did not further encroach
proven effective in sustaining the
on the Village of Aldie and
flow of traffic while maintaining
farther west into our territory,”
the scenic byway.
explains Denegre. “The round-
“Back in 2008, 6,000 acres
abouts have created a nice tran-
of undeveloped land was lost
sition area where Gilbert’s Cor-
per day to development. The
ner can keep its rural feel and be
people in this community take
home to farm market stands and
preservation to heart,” explains
other local agricultural efforts.”
Kasprowicz. “It’s a lot of work on
She continues, “We can think
our part, but it is vitally impor-
of no individual more deserving
tant to this community, not only
than Scott to receive recogni-
to foxhunters, but to anyone who
tion. Besides our own hunt, most,
lives here.”
if not all, 25 recognized hunts
In forming the group Gateway
in Virginia have benefitted from
to Rural Loudoun, Kasprowicz
the thousands of acres Scott has
also successfully halted com-
preserved. We all can ride, hunt
mercial and residential develop-
and enjoy ourselves in the open
ment efforts at Gilbert’s Corner.
space he helped save.”
Shopping center and subdivision plans were thwarted in favor of a group of locals who banded
www.pyranhainc.com 800-231-2966 sales@pyranhainc.com 14 | COVERTSIDE
together to purchase and place into easement the nearly 400 acres of land adjoining Gilbert’s Corner. This important achievement also provided protection benefits to the nearby his-
Katy Carter lives in the Unison Battlefield Historic District near Middleburg, Virginia. When she is not following the Piedmont Fox Hounds, she is communications associate for the Land Trust of Virginia.
SPRING 2017 | 15
YOUNG ENTRY
Three Hounds and Three Very Giddy Girls
O
BY YVONNE GNIRSS AND DOUG PARK
ur three young daughters, Madyson, Paeton and Kenzie, had the privilege of being invited by the Moore County Hounds to show off some of their best hounds at the Carolinas Hound Show in Camden, South Carolina last year. The excitement in our house was overwhelming when they received the invitation. Not only were they able to meet the hounds up close, but they were about to learn how to properly handle a dog to show. Their training consisted of working with the hounds twice
a week, learning both how to handle the hounds and work as a team. During the first training session, everyone was perfectly matched with a hound that suited them best. Having four beagles of their own, our girls fell in love with their hound matches right away. Lincoln Sadler, Shellie Sommerson and Laura Lindamood showed each person how to walk, trot and properly place a hound for the judges. The hounds were very tolerant during the learning process. There was a lot of hugging, kissing and smiling, too. On show day, Cameron Sadler had everything well
ABOVE (l to r): Both hounds and juniors Kenzie Park, PHOTO BY YVONNE GNIRSS
Madyson Park,
16 | COVERTSIDE
Summer Compton and Paeton Park learn that hound shows require a lot of patience. LEFT: Paeton gets a kiss.
PHOTO BY YVONNE GNIRSS
At last year’s Carolinas Hound Show, three sisters learn about the ring.
The hounds were very tolerant during the learning process. There was a lot of hugging, kissing and smiling, too. organized and even provided a yummy lunch. Ms. Laura made sure everyone had a proper show coat and show helmet. There was plenty of time for some bonding with their hounds prior to show. Mr. Lincoln and Ms. Shellie gave some last-minute pointers before entering the show ring. The classes were grouped by age. Now it was time for the girls to show the judges how their hard work had paid off. Each of the kids walked their hounds with pride, showed their hounds’ best side and answered questions about their hounds for the judges. The judges completed the scoring
of the top five. The names were called in the order of placing. It was exciting to see that the girls placed well; they walked out of the ring with ribbons in their hands and happy hounds, too. The entire Moore County Hounds team did very well, and the hounds seemed like they enjoyed their outing. Now it was time to pack up to head back to Southern Pines. Everyone was able to help load up the hounds and gear. A few tears were shed while saying goodbye, but we reminded them that they would see their special friends again and that each hound has a special job they enjoy very much. We are all very thankful to the Moore County Hounds for giving us such a fun learning experience. Yvonne, Doug and their daughters live in Southern Pines, North Carolina near Moore County Hounds. Their girls are avid equestrians and enjoy learning about and interacting with the hounds.
We’re worth the trip! This is the Tourbillon Advantage.
And SO MUCH MORE! 888-934-2221 • 401 Snake Hill Rd North Scituate, RI • www.tourbillontrailers.com
SPRING 2017 | 17
18 | COVERTSIDE
A GOOD FOXHOUND NEVER LOSES THE LINE After 25 years, MFHA Executive Director Dennis Foster leaves a legacy of dedicated service and advocacy. BY MARTHA DRUM
Dennis Foster has hunted in 11 different countries. Here (and cover) he jumps the famous New Zealand wire during a meet with the International Union of Hunting with Hounds.
O
LORRAINE MEAGHER
n the day of Dennis Foster’s initial MFHA board interview, a fierce blizzard gripped northern Virginia and his plane was the last to land before airports closed. C. Martin Wood III, then-MFHA president, recalls that Foster managed to arrive on time, albeit covered in snow. When Wood said that he appreciated this display of perseverance, Foster replied, “A good foxhound never loses the line.” Shortly after, the board approved his appointment. The event would foreshadow the tenacity he would bring to the job. An examination of Foster’s early life experience would not necessarily have pointed to a career deeply tied to mounted foxhunting. He grew up north of Chicago, riding and only occasionally observing hunt meets from a distance. The first decades of his adult life were devoted to military service: he spent 26 years in the United States Army, retiring with the rank of lieutenant colonel. During his tenure, Foster specialized in intelligence, special operations, and law enforcement. This background gave him leadership, problem-solving, and information-gathering experience that would transfer well to his work for the MFHA. His assignment to a base in the 1970s near Mooreland Hunt, in Alabama, led to his first formal appearance in the field. He recalls that retired Army colonel and Mooreland member Jim Young offered to take him out, and an obliging fox jumped up right away. Two
hours later, Foster was one of just four or five riders remaining at the end of the run, and he was hooked. Taking advantage of frequent travel during his Army postings, he became a regular hunt guest, often riding as or with staff. This exposure to different countries, packs, and hunt clubs’ cultures inspired Foster to write and speak on various facets of the sport. Foster’s retirement from the Army coincided with the MFHA’s search for an executive director. EYES AND EARS IN THE FIELD
The position was evolving. For 20 years, John Glass had served as MFHA secretary/clerk and keeper of the studbook, modernizing recordkeeping and laying the foundation for the computerized database still in use. When he retired, Glass suggested changing the position from secretary to executive director. Foster further evolved the position, perceiving the need for the executive director to get to know the people and the issues of hunting, not just the studbook, and to have firsthand knowledge of the different challenges packs, huntsmen and Masters face. He insisted that hunting regularly be part of the job, and the board agreed. Over time, opportunities to follow hounds expanded beyond North America, and to date, Foster has hunted with more than 403 different packs in 11 countries. Foster calls this time in the field “the key to success” for his work resolving disputes about hunt staff and territory. “From riding with so many packs, I know the SPRING 2017 | 19
From hunting with packs across the country, to traveling to hunt overseas, to judging hound shows, Foster has participated in every aspect of the sport.
20 | COVERTSIDE
personalities involved, and the staff and the Masters feel that they can speak directly to me. So when I go back to the board, they know they’re getting a firsthand, fully informed report.” Another product of his work visiting kennels and finding solutions for struggling hunts was recognition of the need for a national educational resource to support hunt staff. With Andrew Barclay (formerly with Green Spring Valley), Tony Leahy (Fox River Valley) and Marion Thorne (Genesee Valley), Foster helped guide the creation of the Professional Development Program (PDP), now entering its 11th season. The PDP’s goal is to assist staff by “encouraging professionalism, improving competence in the hunt field and the kennels and allowing hunt staff the opportunity to network.” Foster is pleased that the popular program has helped hunt staff see themselves as part of a larger community that can share ideas and advice. He attributes most of its success to Barclay’s devoted mentorship to the students.
level, cultivated involvement by “those who hunt purely for pleasure, who are drawn to the lifestyle, and then want to give back and support their hunt and the MFHA.” He says that becoming a subscribing member is the number one action that the average hunt follower can take to support our sport. Foster’s contributions reach beyond the MFHA and North America. Having hunted different game with hounds all around the world, he again recognized the importance of bringing diverse groups together
REINVIGORATING THE MFHA
The PDP is one of several innovations Foster helped lead or administer at the MFHA over the last decade. As part of a thorough reevaluation at the start of the 21st century, the MFHA established the charitable MFHA Foundation, which promotes foxhunting through educational, conservation, and animal health initiatives. The MFHA Foundation supports the PDP, the Hunting Habitat Conservation Award and the District Conservation Awards; the Ian Milne Award, which recognizes a huntsman from an MFHA member hunt who has distinguished himself or herself in sport; and the ongoing renovation of the future MFHA headquarters in Middleburg. The MFHA Centennial in 2007 presented additional challenges for the executive director, as then-President Mason Lampton recalls. “I would call up Dennis with idea after idea to implement for the year-long celebration. He would connect the membership to all the opportunities that they could participate in. The workload for the MFHA staff multiplied tenfold, but the final results were amazing. His office reflected excitement that became infectious, and Dennis was at the heart of the success of that fabulous year.” Out of all these MFHA projects, Foster believes one of the most significant was creation of the subscribing membership. He got shot down every time he brought the idea up, so he enlisted board member Randy Waterman, then Master at Piedmont Hunt, who convinced the board. “Now it is the glue that holds the organization together,” he says. Opening participation to non-Masters, at an accessible financial
to share experiences, resources, and defend common goals. It was his idea to create the International Union of Hunting with Hounds which includes mounted hunting with hounds associations from eight nations under a shared charter, to uphold the principles and standards of hunting internationally. THE GREATEST THREAT
With this comprehensive perspective on foxhunting at home and abroad, Foster says the greatest threat to the sport is the animal rights movement. “I recognized very early on in my hunting career that the biggest problem was animal rights, not necessarily sprawl or loss of country.” He has studied the different organizations and leaders closely and critically. His analysis includes identifying them, exposing their hidden agendas and strategies, breaking down the financial reality of how donations are used, and revealing how funds are transferred between groups. This examination exposes the extremist goals that are often glossed over in public statements. “Correcting the public’s and the media’s confusion over the terms ‘animal welfare’ versus ‘animal rights’ is key to success.” Foster is a recognized international expert on the subject, has testified at Senate hearings and international conferences, and will continue to advise the MFHA on animal rights issues. For all his behind-the-scenes mentoring with individual huntsmen and Masters, and office work editing and rewriting MFHA guidebooks and other resources,
Foster has also carried the very public role of being the contact person for foxhunting in North America. He has written two very successful foxhunting books, “Whipper-in” and “Introduction to Foxhunting.” He has been on the front line, receiving questions and criticism whenever a search for “foxhunting” turns up the MFHA website. While he is eager to explain and educate the media and the public about our practices, he is equally enthusiastic and prepared with facts and figures in defending the sport against false accusations and misleading stereotypes. LOOKING BACK
As his quarter-century of service draws to an end, Foster reflects on his achievements with satisfaction. “Being the executive director was an amazing, one-of-a-kind job,” he says. “Each MFHA board president was different, and they had slightly different goals during their tenures. My role was to assist each of them, while at the same time providing continuity in the management of the association.” He is also proud of how much the MFHA offers its members. “We’ve expanded what the office does, in terms of countering the hunting ban movement, developing conservation programs, educating and supporting not only professional staff, but Masters and members, and we have numerous programs to get children hunting.” With the addition of the subscribing membership, “the MFHA really works for everybody out there, not just the board or the Masters.” Asked his favorite part of the job, he replies quickly, “The hunting!” Board members share pride in these achievements and readily praised Foster’s tireless and sustained efforts. Immediate past President Jack van Nagell says,
“Dennis has helped our member hunts in so many ways, from rewriting and revising all MFHA publications as a means to ensure the highest standards of sportsmanship, to personally hunting with nearly every North American hunt. He is a respected authority on the animal rights movement who has effectively defended hunting from numerous unwarranted attacks.” Past President Martin Wood adds, “Dennis moved the MFHA forward at the end of the 20th century into a modern association that looks after its members, enforces its by-laws and does the job that it was designed to do. He brought some discipline to the loosely organized group at a time when it was sorely needed and provided leadership from the executive director’s chair to drive the organization forward. For that leadership, the MFHA will be eternally grateful.” LOOKING AHEAD
Foster will continue to advise the MFHA regarding anti-hunting activities and legislation, but at 72 he is anticipating a change of pace. He plans to live fulltime in Montana, where the nearest neighbor is 15 miles down the road and his schedule will be “riding my horses, working my dogs, enjoying the wildlife and exploring the wilderness.” His outgoing advice to foxhunters is “to get out and around, go to more joint meets, rub elbows with different people, experience someone else’s pleasure. It will add to your own enjoyment. Foxhunters are the most generous people in the world.” Foster’s demonstrated generosity, with his time and expertise, has set a high standard to follow.
Top: Foster was a judge at the Centennial performance trial. Foxey and Foster break through the field. Below: The signature cowboy hat, seen at many a hound show, will be put to use in Montana, where Foster will retire.
Martha Drum is Covertside’s online content editor.
HIGHLIGHTS OF 25 YEARS OF SERVICE TO MFHA • Hunted with more than 403 different hunts in 11 different countries, including the United States, Canada, England, Scotland, Wales, Ireland, Germany, Belgium, France, Australia, and New Zealand. • Modernized the Kennel Stud Book, the registry of all hunting foxhounds in North America. • Created, with Andrew Barclay, Tony Leahy and Marion Thorne, the MFHA Professional Development Program (PDP). • Encouraged the board to establish subscribing membership category for non-Masters.
• Assisted with the development of the MFHA Foundation, which oversees the PDP, conservation awards and Ian Milne Award. • Awarded universal colors by the MFHA board of directors, which allows hunting with any registered or recognized pack in America and Canada. • Named one of the 100 most powerful people in the equestrian world by SPUR magazine (1997, 1998) • Received Virginia Horse Industry Award for leadership in the fight against the animal rights movement (1998)
• Testified as expert witness in the U.S. Senate, state legislatures, and court cases on matters related to foxhunting. • Presented on topics related to the animal rights movement in the U.S., Canada, Ireland, England, France, Belgium, New Zealand, and Australia. • Serves on the Welfare and Unwanted Horse Committees of the American Horse Council. • Sits on the board of the International Union of Hunting with Hounds (IUHH), which advocates for hunting organizations in different countries around the world. SPRING 2017 | 21
THE
FUTURE’S STORIED PAST MFHA’s new building is rich in Civil War history. BY CHRISTOPHER OAKFORD
22 | COVERTSIDE
The new MFHA
in the town, Chancellor was elected captain in the local militia, the 132nd Virginia. Two years later, in 1860, he was also elected mayor. And with the outbreak of war in April 1861, Virginia’s Governor John Letcher promoted Chancellor to colonel. It was an inauspicious appointment.
headquarters building is named for Lorman Chancellor, the mayor of Middleburg during the Civil War, and son-in-law of Hugh Smith, who built it. Lorman (seated, bottom right), is pictured with his brothers.
SOLIDER OF MISFORTUNE
FEW SPORTS CAN MATCH FOXHUNTING FOR ITS ANCIENT LINEAGE AND FABLED PAST. Perhaps football, known for some unfathomable reason as soccer in these parts, might be one. (In 1349, King Edward III, anxious to keep his peasantry in good fighting trim for a forthcoming fixture against the French, banned the round ball game in favor of archery.) And surely something as deeply weird as curling must have an interesting anecdote or two up its sleeve. But on the whole, foxhunters can take pride in helping to continue this most historic of all pastimes. So it is fitting that the Masters of Foxhounds Association’s new headquarters in Middleburg, Virginia, should have its own historic tale to tell. The building sits on the main street, at the corner of South Jay and Washington, just as you start to descend the hill into Middleburg, and is set back from the road with a beautiful and expansive garden to the rear. Together with many other houses in the town, it forms one part of the Middleburg Historic District. Built of the pale honey-colored stone that gives Middleburg its uniform beauty, the original two-and-a-half-story dwelling was erected by Hugh Smith in the 1830s. But today, it is named for its most notable occupant, Smith’s son-in-law, Lorman Chancellor, who was mayor of Middleburg during the Civil War. Chancellor is one of those rumbustious characters one comes across from time to time who seem fated to lead an interesting life. A native of Fredericksburg, Virginia, he was born in 1817 in the family home, the modestly entitled “Chancellorville.” His early life seems to have been comparatively uneventful, and by 1847, when he married Margaret Smith of Middleburg, he was a prosperous attorney in Spotsylvania, Virginia. It was in the late 1850s and with the family’s move to Middleburg that things started to liven up. Within a year of his arrival
A successful attorney he may have been, but as a soldier Chancellor left a lot to be desired. Kevin Pawlack, education specialist for the Mosby Heritage Area Association, explains: “On one occasion, Chancellor was heading to The Plains with a group of conscripts and draftees whom he did not entirely trust. The idea was that when Chancellor got down to The Plains, he was going to lock them up in a building so that they couldn’t run away. And of course that didn’t endear him at all to his soldiers.” Unfortunately for Chancellor, an overseer named McCabe had already taken over the building to keep a group of slaves he had used to build fortifications nearby in order to prevent them from escaping to the Union. Chancellor quickly became enraged by McCabe’s attitude, and hoping to convince him of the merits of his case, hit McCabe with the hilt of his sword. McCabe then pulled out a pistol and shot Chancellor, with Chancellor’s own soldiers cheering McCabe on. The wound was slight, and Chancellor returned to Middleburg to recover both his health and his dignity.
SPRING 2017 | 23
John Singleton Mosby, commander of Mosby’s Rangers, was a guest in Chancellor’s home.
THE THORN IN THE UNION’S SIDE
The most famous incident, however, and the one that gives the new MFHA headquarters its claim to fame, occurred in March 1863 and involved John Singleton Mosby, the Gray Ghost of the Confederacy. As Pawlack explains, “Mosby [who in 1863 commanded the 43rd Battalion Virginia Cavalry, also known as Mosby’s Rangers] was really a thorn in the Union’s side. He was an extremely calculative person, did a lot of reconnaissance, and he knew the country, every cow path, every back road. So he was able to make lightning-quick raids on the Union’s supply lines and then simply disappear. Instead of keeping his men together, they would disperse into a series of safe houses and then reassemble whenever they were going to attack. As a result, he kept thousands of soldiers in and around Washington D.C. that could otherwise have been with the Union army in the field.” He gained his nickname, the “Gray Ghost,” because of his ability to seemingly appear and disappear at will. The extent of the friendship between Mosby and Chancellor is not entirely clear. Some believe that they were acquaintances brought together by the exigencies of war, and that Chancellor had to tread a delicate path, assisting his brother officer while avoiding giving the Union soldiers any excuse to destroy Middleburg. Others suggest that Chancellor took a more active role, allowing Mosby to hide in his attic when the going got too hot. In any event, they were certainly close enough to dine together, and on the evening of March 8, 1863, Mosby and Chancellor ate dinner together at Chancellor’s house. That evening, Mosby had planned one of his most daring exploits. Insulted by the insinuation by a British soldier of fortune, Sir Percy Wyndham, who commanded the Union cavalry regiment, that he was little more than a horse thief, Mosby intended to sneak through the
24 | COVERTSIDE
lines and capture Wyndham as he slept at his headquarters in the Fairfax courthouse. According to later reports, at the conclusion of the meal Mosby stood up to leave and uttered the immortal, if confusing, words, “Tonight I shall mount the stars or sink lower than the plummet ever sounded.” Not the snappiest of partings, perhaps, though it undoubtedly helps to know that a plummet is a piece of lead attached to a line used to determine the depth of a body of water. Luckily for Wyndham, Mosby’s timing was off, and Wyndham had already left the area. Mosby did, though, capture Brigadier General Edwin Stoughton, whom he awakened with a slap on the rump with the flat of his sword. In the end even two such wily birds as Mosby and Chancellor could not prevent the industrial might of the North from taking its toll. After the war, the two friends fared very differently. Mosby, in the eyes of many, committed the cardinal sin of taking an appointment with the administration of President Ulysses S. Grant. Chancellor, in contrast, suffered financial embarrassment, was declared bankrupt, and was then saved by the timely death of a wealthy cousin, who left him the considerable sum of $72,000. He ended his days in Baltimore, living with his daughter, Elizabeth. By a strange coincidence, Middleburg’s current mayor, Betsy Davis, also has a connection with the Lorman Chancellor house. The daughter of photographer Howard O. Allen, Davis lived in the house from the time she was 10 until she married. “My parents moved to Middleburg in around 1954, and they bought the house
BE INVOLVED The 1830s Lorman Chancellor building needs about $800,000 worth of renovations before the MFHA and the MFHA Foundation can move in. The plans for the building include offices for the executive and association staff, a boardroom, storage, and a public exhibition space that will be open to the public. The space will be an exciting way to engage the public in the sport of mounted foxhunting, and serve as a home for the MFHA Foundation’s art and memorabilia collection, most of which is either in storage or at Morven Park, in Leesburg, Virginia. The MFHA Foundation encourages all members to get involved in the new headquarters by donating (tax deductible) to the restoration fund. Whether $5, $50 or $5000, all contributions are welcome. Visit MFHA. com or send a check to the MFHA Foundation.
in about 1962. So they lived there over 50 years,” she says. Her parents’ move to a retirement home prompted them to sell in 2013. The purchaser was philanthropist, hunt enthusiast and Middleburg resident Dr. Betsee Parker, who donated the house to the Middleburg Museum Foundation as the site for its new museum. When the upkeep proved too ex-
Wine & Coast Riding Adventure pensive for them, Dr. Parker again came to the rescue, mentioning to MFHA Executive Director Dennis Foster that it might make the perfect headquarters for which he had been looking. As Foster explains, “The idea of a headquarters first came about
THE PURCHASE, WHICH WAS FUNDED BY DONATIONS TO THE MFHA FOUNDATION, WENT THROUGH SMOOTHLY, AND THE INTENTION IS TO OPEN THE BUILDING TO THE PUBLIC THREE DAYS A WEEK AS A MUSEUM OF FOXHUNTING.
when our president, Dr. Jack van Nagell, took office three years ago. He thought that the MFHA needed more exposure with the public. A committee looked at various sites and settled on two: Lexington, Kentucky, or northern Virginia. They decided northern Virginia was more opportune because, as you know, it’s the mecca of hunting in the United States, and Middleburg in particular because the town is really built around the foxhunting world, with seven hunts within three minutes of the place.” The MFHA committee had already found a possible location — a modern house near the entrance to Middleburg’s Salamander Resort — when Foster spoke
with Dr. Parker during the Biennial Hunt Staff Seminar in 2016, where Parker hosted a party at her home, Huntland. “Betsee had donated this beautiful old building on the main street to the Museum Foundation, but that it might be for sale and we should contact them.” The purchase, which was funded by donations to the MFHA Foundation, went through smoothly, and the intention is to open the building to the public three days a week as a museum of foxhunting. “It actually opens doors that we haven’t had before because we’ll be able to educate both the public and our own people,” says Foster. “There are so many things that foxhunting touches, not just horses and hounds, but wildlife and conservation. You know people visit Middleburg because it’s so beautiful, but it wouldn’t be that beautiful if it wasn’t for the hunts.” This chimes perfectly with the society named in honor of the man who gave the new headquarters its historic value, the Mosby Heritage Area Association. “Our motto is ‘Preservation Through Education,’ ” says Pawlack. “We provide education to local citizens about the historic landscape in the hope that they will become more knowledgeable about all the history they have around them, not just the open spaces, but the back roads, the stone fences, the buildings. They all have a story to tell.”
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Christopher Oakford lives in Lexington, Kentucky, and is the author of the book “The Iroquois Hunt: A Bluegrass Foxhunting Tradition.” He and his wife, Glenye, are currently writing a biography of Joseph B. Thomas.
SPRING 2017 | 25
EDITOR’S NOTE: The following is the second
in a four-part series on judging and showing foxhounds. The series was developed based on C. Martin Wood III’s presentation at the 2016 Virginia Foxhound Judging Seminar.
Quality The Essential Ingredient BY C. MARTIN WOOD III, MFH
T
he date of your judging assignment has arrived. You are at the hound show and have already checked in at the steward’s desk to receive your judge’s badge and perhaps a clipboard with a pencil attached. Some shows will allow you to judge from the entry list and some shows want you to judge tabula rasa or clean slate. This method means that you are supposed to know only the entry numbers of the hounds, and not the names of the hunts, the hunt staff showing hounds, or the breeding of the entry.
26 | COVERTSIDE
PART TWO
DR. J. WARNER RAY, MFH
THOUGHTS ON JUDGING
Live Oak Fanfare ’10, Grand Champion of the 2015 Southern Hound Show, proudly displays her championship bloodlines. Looking on (l-r) are Daphne Wood, MFH, Michael Ledyard, exMFH, and C. Martin Wood III, MFH.
CHECK BIAS AT THE GATE
Clearly this is a thinly veiled attempt at ensuring that the reputation of the pack and its Masters does not influence the judging in any way. That’s a bit unrealistic, because in the foxhound world any experienced judge is going to know the Masters, huntsmen and whippers-in of most of the packs in the show ring, and often by first name. Indeed, you will be asked to evaluate the hounds of friends and even relatives. You must live by one rule: Judge what is in front of you as an individual foxhound and nothing else. Do not allow the politics of any decision to alter your assessment in any way. Judge the hounds in the ring fairly and honestly and you will end the day with your integrity intact and with a result that pleases everyone. When you arrive at your assigned ring, you should check in with the ring steward to ascertain the particular rules of the show, such as how many places are pinned. Establish the methodology of how you, the judge, would like the hounds presented, the method by which hounds will be sorted and either kept in for final judgment or dismissed after being assessed, and what the acknowledged procedure is for establishing a champion and a reserve. Remember that your attitude carries over to both the human and the canine competitors. Smile and enjoy yourself. I try to greet and help each competitor as they come forward, as I have been in the arena myself and I know how daunting it can be for younger, less experienced staff members.
IT’S ALL ABOUT QUALITY A quality foxhound is the most dangerous to its quarry, as it has the proper conformation and drive to run long, hard
Why is quality the essential ingredient? The term “quality” when applied to a foxhound captures all of the conformation and character points for which a judge
and fast on a line.
SPRING 2017 | 27
should be looking. Of course, describing quality in a foxhound is difficult — every judge will see the entries in a class differently. I do know that when I see a quality foxhound in the ring, I know it. When the hounds first begin to enter the ring as a class, either as individuals or as an entry for a hunt, you should be able to form an impression of each hound. Some will catch your eye immediately. It is important to note the hound’s number or name on the judge’s card to remind yourself to take a much closer look later. A judge also needs to determine the overall quality, as there may be times when you are judging a class that lacks outstanding individuals. You will then have to assess which ones have the best quality in an otherwise mediocre group. That type of class can be very difficult for a judge. You will quickly note that some hounds suit you and others clearly do not. You can change your mind later but it is important to winnow down the entries in a positive fashion in order to spend more time sorting through individual faults later on. As the hounds enter the ring, a judge should study each one individually to determine the following points. Readers who show hounds should pay particular attention here: Once the class is called, all foxhounds in the ring or entering the ring are under judgment at all times until the class is pinned. Having stated the above, I have on many occasions told the competitors to relax when I am sorting through my notes or discussing matters with the ring steward. Here is what I ask myself:
1.
2.
3.
• DOES THE HOUND CARRY ITSELF WITH PRESENCE and have a “Look at me!” attitude in the ring? • DOES THE HOUND EXHIBIT THE PROPER PACE and stamina points? • IS THE HOUND HAPPY or is it slinking along beside its handler or running off to the far side of the ring?
4. 28 | COVERTSIDE
5.
1. LIVE OAK DASHER ’07 shows great strength without sacrificing quality. He was Centennial Grand Champion English Doghound and 2008 Virginia Grand Champion of the Show. 2. LIVE OAK MELODY ’94 was beautifully balanced with great strength behind and exuded the presence for which a judge looks. She was English Bitch Champion at both the Carolinas and Virginia hound shows. 3. LIVE OAK KEEPSAKE ’07 was somewhat undeveloped as an unentered hound, but won her unentered Crossbred class and then went on to win two brood bitch classes at Virginia. 4. LIVE OAK FABLE ’10 was Virginia Grand Champion of the Show as was her litter brother Farrier ’10. Another littermate, Fanfare ’10, was Grand Champion of the Southern Hound Show in 2015. Fable looks a little ring-weary here as she has competed in four classes on the trot in the heat. 5. LIVE OAK DAZZLE ’07 was very nearly flawless when she won the Centennial Grand Champion English Bitch. Previous page - LIVE OAK ANCHOR ’03 was the model for the MFHA and Centennial logos. He is a Crossbred dog with superb carriage and exceptional neck and loin.
• DOES THE HOUND HAVE ANY OBVIOUS CONFORMATION FLAWS? (Conformation, not color, is what counts.) • DOES THE HOUND STAND OUT in the ring full of other competitors? • IS THE HOUND OF THE QUALITY that you would be willing to breed from or to?
These are not complicated questions; however, the answers go a long way toward sorting out any class of foxhounds. This important decision-making comes early in the class and helps to quickly determine which hounds you want to look at closely once they are being put through their paces on an individual basis. When we look for quality, we want to form an overall opinion of the hounds as they circle the ring or when, in the case of English and some Crossbred classes, the entry is first brought into the ring and stands before the judges for the first time. It is imperative that you as a judge get an impression of each hound. Many of the competitors have traveled long distances and paid considerable amounts of money to enter and show
their hounds, so it is imperative that the judge treat all competitors with an even hand and a level eye in judgment and that competitors feel that they have been judged fairly. You should be able to tell them precisely why you liked or did not like their entry. I always make a few notes for this purpose.
ON THE BOARDS
It is tremendously important that you spend the same amount of time carefully looking at each entry during the individual assessment on the boards and not be dismissive of some entries while focusing on others. We have not yet even put the individual hounds up on the boards or had them run for a biscuit. Refer to your notes of your impression of each hound so that you can remember it when the hounds are stood up and then moved as individuals. At that point, you can confirm your earlier opinion or change it because you see something that you do not like. This system of sorting SPRING 2017 | 29
has worked for me many times and there have been numerous instances when seeing hounds as individuals has changed my initial thoughts from when I watched them as part of the whole entry. Remember this: No perfect hound has ever been bred! We all strive for perfection but every hound can be picked apart to some degree. A judge begins determining the overall quality of the hound early in each class and then either confirms or redirects his or her opinion once the hounds are put on the boards as individuals. This template is not perfect by any means, but it does provide a systematic approach to efficiently sorting out a large class while still providing each entry its full time under judgment. Be sure that you mark down the numbers that you want kept in after seeing them on the boards and always keep more hounds than there are ribbons. You may later see a flaw that you
30 | COVERTSIDE
missed in that “world beater� and must change your mind in the final lineup. In the ensuing installments, we will uncover the finer points of sorting foxhounds in the ring. We will learn to judge their balance and activity after having already established that these hounds are quality individuals that may go on to compete for ribbons in the class as well as for the ultimate championship. The goal is to arrive at the final awarding of ribbons with a group of hounds who are of the same type and general conformation. That simply makes me feel very good about what I have done in sorting out the class.
THE ROLE OF FUNCTION IN FORM
In closing this segment, I would like to leave the reader with one thought: A quality foxhound is the most dangerous to its
quarry. He or she possesses all of the attributes that will allow him or her to go farther, faster and longer than one that is not well made. It possesses the stamina, the speed and, hopefully, the drive to enable it to close with and account for its quarry if scent will allow. You cannot look at a foxhound and determine its scenting ability, its voice or its innate drive to put its game to ground. As judges and breeders of foxhounds we can ensure each hound has the conformation that will allow it to make best use of those qualities that we cannot assess in a show ring. That is why quality of conformation is so important. C. Martin Wood III is the Master of the Live Oak Hounds, and is an accomplished judge, having evaluated foxhounds in all the major hounds shows in North America and England.
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Fair Hill, MD Contact: Nancy Dougherty ndoughe982@aol.com (410) 255-4366 Saturday, May 13, 2017
SOUTHWEST HOUND SHOW Marvin Savage Farm, Weatherford, TX Contact: Sandy Dixon puppifarm@hughes.net (940) 433-8474 135 PR 3544 Paradise, TX 76073 Saturday, April 22, 2017
CAROLINAS HOUND SHOW Camden, SC Contact: Berit Osworth CHS Show Secretary thecamdenhunt@yahoo.com PO Box 2285 Camden, SC 29020 Saturday, May 6, 2017
NEW ENGLAND HOUND SHOW New Haven, VT (hosted by Green Mountain Hounds) Contact: Katherine Selby selby@equestry.com (802) 236-6349 829 South Street New Haven, VT 05472 Sunday, May 7, 2017
CENTRAL STATES HOUND SHOW Stilwell, Kansas Contact: Dr. Steven L. Thomas (913) 636-3778 12800 Metcalf Ave. Ste. 2 Overland Park, KS 66213 Saturday, May 13, 2017
WESTERN STATES HOUND SHOW Tejon Ranch, CA (hosted by Tejon Hounds) Contact: Hilary Mothershead hmothershead@tejonranch.com (661) 599-0710 PO Box 1000 Tejon Ranch, CA 93243 May 20, 2017
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BRYN MAWR HOUND SHOW Malvern, PA Contact: Nancy Bedwell Danks entry@bmhoundshow.org (484) 459-5433 P.O. Box 48 Westchester, PA 19381 Saturday, June 3, 2017
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*Subject to change. Check MFHA.com for updates SPRING 2017 | 31
BETTER RIDING
Foxhunting Friendships are Forever
The small, small world effect of our sport often brings us full circle. STORY AND PHOTO BY NINA MILTON
F
oxhunters are a unique group of people driven by a common passion for the sport. Whether a hunter’s primary interest is hounds, horses, beautiful countryside, or jumping crazy fences (or small logs), we’re united by our interest in the welfare of the sport and our community as a whole. Once that stock tie is pinned and tucked, we’re one large extended family. We experienced the compassion of that community last July when my husband Don’s hunter, Ike, was struck and killed by lightning, along with our friend Joe Bills’s horse, Traveler. Don and Joe are Joint Masters for Middleton Place Hounds in Charleston, and the tragic nature of the loss was a shock for everyone. As is typical with hunt horses, Ike and Trav had prior hunting origins with Ike coming from Ann Dyer, Master of Pickering Hunt
32 | COVERTSIDE
in Pennsylvania, and Traveler hailing from Cooper poses with (l to r) Barbara Lee, Don Milton, and Epp Wilson, October 2016 the Camden Hunt in South things well in hand for hounds Epp asked if we needed a Carolina. Condolences poured place to take horses, and even and staff horses, which were in from foxhunters across the offered to come get them (a far enough inland to be fairly East Coast. three- to four-hour trip, one safe. Seabrook Island EquesFast forward to October trian Center, where my horse is way). Don thanked him and and the approach of Hurristabled, did an outstanding job assured him that we, and MPH cane Matthew. The storm was horses, had stabling arrangements. Epp’s offer was very gracious and “typical Epp.” This would be just another happy-
ending story were it not for the number of small-world, foxhunting tie-ins that led to the conclusion.
tracking determinedly to the Carolinas, and our governor had ordered mandatory evacuation for all coastal communities. The evacuation notice came quickly and everyone had to scramble for hotels and stabling. Middleton Place Huntsman Willie Dunne had
arranging for the evacuation of more than 40 horses to Aiken and Greenwood. As we were closing up our house and preparing to leave with my horse, our three dogs, two cats and ourselves, Don got a call from Epp Wilson, MFH of Belle Meade Hunt.
FINDING A PARTNER
While Don and Epp were discussing hurricanes and various hunt topics, Epp reiterated his concern for our prior loss of Ike. Fortunately, Joe Bills had recently acquired a new equine partner, but Don’s search for a new horse had not yet yielded results. Don asked if Epp knew of any suitable horses for sale. As it turns out, he had one that sounded like a decent prospect. So, while biding our evacuation time
in Aiken, and trying not to wonder whether there was a tree on our house, we drove to Epp’s lovely Foxboro Farm in Thomson, Georgia, where Don tried a horse named Cooper. It was such a great fit that we would have taken him home immediately had we known for sure that we had a home post-hurricane. Happily we fared very well, and after a few weeks cleaning up debris, we returned to pick up Cooper, who has proven himself to be the outstanding field hunter Epp described. THE SMALL WORLD OF FOXHUNTING
This would be just another happy-ending story were it not for the number of small-world,
foxhunting tie-ins that led to the conclusion. Don and Epp have known each other for many years, stemming from Don’s time as a member of Smithtown Hunt on Long Island. Smithtown Master Jackie Bittner, whom Don credits with providing his foxhunting fundamentals, organized annual hunting trips to Belle Meade and other area hunts. One of Jackie’s former students, Barbara Lee, lives in Georgia and hunts regularly with Belle Meade where she serves as a whip. Cooper was previously owned by Susan Saccone, whom Don knew from those annual voyages south. When Sue purchased Cooper 13 years ago as a four-year old, she enlisted Barbara Lee to train
him. Knowing Cooper’s history and prior owner and trainer reinforced our decision to purchase him. Some quick math will make it evident that Cooper is now 17, which might make some wonder why we felt he was a perfect fit. At 72, Don was looking for a different type of horse than he might have considered a few years ago. Still a first-flighter, he doesn’t need a six-year-old! Cooper is a seasoned, solid citizen who knows his job. They make a good pair in first or second flight. And, it’s a nice situation for Cooper, too. Belle Meade is a live hunt with longer meets and more rugged country, running coyote up and down hills, while Middleton Place Hounds
is a drag hunt with two-hour meets on flat, sandy terrain. This season, we’ve likely forged new relationships and strengthened prior acquaintances during joint meets, hunt week getaways, performance trials, or befriending a visitor from elsewhere. Young or old, horse, hound or human, we’re all in it together, and you never know when you secure that stock tie, who you’ll meet and when your paths will cross again. Nina Milton began foxhunting 25 years ago with the Kimberton Hunt (Pennsylvania). She now lives in the warmer South Carolina climate and shares her home with her husband, three dogs and two cats.
SPRING 2017 | 33
FARE & FLASK
from TRYON HOUNDS, Columbus, N.C.
sary. In attendance, as always, was Master Louise Hughston, whose charisma has been a leading light of the club for over 40 years. One member recalled a conversation with Hughston long ago in which they discussed several different hunts in the region. “Louise told me that it was fine to hunt around, but The Cadiers transformed this she looked me in the eye and land from dumping ground to said, ‘Dear, do not forget that an equestrian paradise perfect for hosting hunt breakfast. this is your mother hunt.’” Breakfast was splendid, but I had a problem: There were too many inviting dishes to put ample portions of everything on a plate at one time. Dry-brined grilled salmon and brown-sugar baked ham with poached fruits were the featured entrees. DesFoxhunters enjoy breakfast at Centerline Ridge Farm. serts included a Brobdingnagian STORY AND PHOTOS BY MICHAEL STERN goblet of whipped-cream-topped trifle. Among side dishes were corn-squash casserole, spinach salad with walnut-orange vinaicouple as you’ll meet anywhere ryon Hounds gath- horses grazing on slopes below grette, roasted carrots, pumpkin ered at Centerline the ridgetop with the Blue Ridge in the horse world. The Cadiers’ expansive patch muffins, and — best of all — kaMountains in the distance. The Ridge Farm for leidoscopic dressing invented by of paradise was not always so meal itself was picturesque: an a hunt breakfast inviting. Only after they bought Hare and Hound cook Pamela autumn-hued banquet created buffet arrayed inside a barn so McDougald. Sensitive to regional the undeveloped property and by The Hare and Hound Pub clean that a person could eat vernacular, I asked her, “Do you started building did they learn of Landrum, whose proprietor, off the stall floors. (Nobody call it ‘dressing’ or ‘stuffing’?” that the locals’ nickname for Patty Otto, served as co-host did!) Alfresco dining is what “Neither. It is a savory bread it was “Chernobyl” because it along with the Cadiers, Roanne really wowed club members pudding,” Pamela explained, had been a dumping ground and friends at Tom and Carolyn and Reed McNutt, Paula and “with eggs and chicken broth for truckloads of manure. But George Stathakis, and Roy Cadier’s newly built home and and wild rice and roasted buthorse farm on the Carolinas bor- Gibson. I dare say that foremost they saw a diamond in the ternut squash.” rough. Today, with its dressage among the pleasing visuals that der. Outside beyond the barn’s “Is it your signature dish?” I morning were Tom and Carolyn arena, stadium jumps, crossbreezy center aisle, tables were asked, having polished off three country field, broad pastures, positioned on a patio where the Cadier themselves — welcomand impeccable barn, Centerline helpings with ravenous glee. breathtaking view was of family ing hosts who are as comely a “This is the first time I’ve Ridge Farm is a tour de force of made it,” she replied. equestrian-friendly design … Not the last, I pray! and a consummate setting for hunt breakfast. Michael Stern has co-authored Club members were feeling especially celebratory this Satur- over forty books about American food and popular culture. day, which followed a Thursday He created roadfood.com and is opening meet that marked heard weekly on Public Radio’s Tryon Hounds’ 90th anniver“The Splendid Table.”
TRYON, ALFRESCO
T
34 | COVERTSIDE
the recipe
HARE & HOUND SAVORY BREAD PUDDING INGREDIENTS: • 2 large leeks sliced and rinsed well
• 3 carrots, medium diced, roasted in 325 degree oven
• 1 medium-size butternut squash
• 1 stick salted butter, plus 2 tablespoons
• 2 cups cooked wild rice
• 2 cups mediumdiced celery
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1.5 cups diced Vidalia onion
• 2 tablespoons fresh sage, minced
• 5 10-inch sub rolls, cut into 1-inch squares (white or wheat)
• 2 apples unpeeled, small-diced. (recommend 1 Granny Smith and 1 Honeycrisp) DIRECTIONS: PREHEAT oven to 350 degrees. LIGHTLY TOAST bread cubes and cool. Put in a large bowl. CUT butternut squash in half, seed, rub with olive oil, place flat side down on sheet pan and roast until slightly soft, about 1/2 hour. When cool, peel and cube.
• .5 cup Italian parsley, roughly minced
SAUTÉ celery, onion, apples and leeks in the 2 tablespoons butter and olive oil 8-10 minutes. Add fresh sage and Italian parsley. Add to bread cubes along with roasted carrots and wild rice. IN A SAUCEPAN, MELT the stick of butter with chicken stock, cool slightly. Add milk and eggs, season with salt and pepper. Add to
• 2 cups chicken stock • 1 cup milk • 3 eggs, beaten • 1 teaspoon salt • 1 teaspoon coarsely ground pepper • Parsley
bread, rice and carrot mixture. Add salt and pepper. PUT in a 9” x 13” greased casserole dish, let sit for .5 to 1 hour, then bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes, covered. UNCOVER AND CONTINUE TO BAKE for 10 more minutes.
MEMBER GET A MEMBER RECEIVE A 10% DISCOUNT ON A BOBBY’S ENGLISH TACK BRIDLE!
SPRINKLE with parsley and serve. Serves 8-10
HERE’S HOW:
Have a friend join MFHA at ecovertside.net/refer Use code CS0217 in the “other instructions” section
Chef Pamela McDougald at work on desert.
Then call Bobby’s at 714-970-3778 or email info@bobbystack.com and give them the same code SPRING 2017 | 35
THE FIND
Bluecuckoo Cushions These cushions are embroidered on British Cavalry twill cloth — 100% British wool — the same cloth from which hunt coats are made. They can be custom embroidered with your hunt logo and made in hunt colors. Visit bluecuckoo.co.uk.
Custom Murals and Floorcloths by Canvasworks Designs The hunt and rural historic designs on these decorative floorcloths add an antique charm to any space. Showcase your hunting passion with a hand-crafted, hand-painted mural or floorcloth anywhere in your home. Visit canvasworksdesigns.com.
Snooty Fox Bottle Openers by Foxhall Ltd.
Hand-cast, hand-painted Snooty Fox bottle openers, perfect for the hunt table or stirrup cup. They come in pinques but can be custom painted in your hunt colors. Visit foxhall-ltd.myshopify.com.
Oil Paintings
Fox Mat $24.99
of Animals, Nature, & Equine Sports by
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sales@therubberman.com 36 | COVERTSIDE
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Corinthian Equestrian Center The premier Boarding and Training Facility in Orange County, NY. IT’S ALL ABOUT THE HORSES! Owner/Trainer Lee Dillon and Pro Hunter/Jumper Trainer Ken Okken give their clients the best skills to advance to the next level. Lee is a Member of Windy Hollow Hunt Club the traditional local fox hunting club in Orange County. Hundreds of acres of prime trails for CEC’s clients to enjoy.
LOCATED AT 39 Foley Rd in Historic Warwick, NY VISIT corinthianequestriancenter.com OR CALL
973 617 7744 SPRING 2017 | 37
FOXHUNTER’S LIBRARY
Adventures of War and Foxhunting
Michael Clayton, longtime Fleet Street journalist, found his passion for foxhunting as a writer and editor for Horse and Hound.
Michael Clayton’s memoir covers vast territory. REVIEW BY DENNIS FOSTER
M
ichael Clayton is an icon in the sport of foxhunting. He has hunted with over 200 packs in England, Ireland and the United States, and written over 20 books on the subject. He was also past editor of Horse and Hound magazine. His experiences with the greats in the hunting world range from the royalty of England, to the top hunts in England and Ireland, to the best in the United
THE RIDE OF MY LIFE By Michael Clayton 288 Pages Ludlow, England Merlin Unwin Books, 2016
38 | COVERTSIDE
States, of which three examples are Ben Hardaway and Marty and Daphne Wood. In “The Ride of My Life,” Clayton shares his unique exposure to foxhunting and foxhunters from his early, very humble beginnings to the present day. The book is a veritable “who’s who” of foxhunting, giving rare insights into the foxhunters’ personalities and the sport itself. Reliving Clayton’s adventures, including his tales of riding across difficult country — often on difficult horses — behind fantastic packs of hounds, will make the hair on your arms stand up. The best advice he received as a youngster: “Always remember, the riding is fun, but the purpose of hunting is to catch the fox. If you understand what the huntsman and the hounds are doing you will learn to love it for a lifetime.” Clayton’s wit and charm are laced into every story he recounts. This story of his hunting life crisscrosses his many careers: television and radio reporter, war correspondent, into his other life … foxhunting. That unique exposure gives him an exciting perspective as he quotes Jorrocks: “If foxhunting
is ‘the image of war, without its guilt, and only five and twenty percent of the danger,’ there is still bound to be some grief. ” From dodging bullets in Cam-
bodia to near misses in Vietnam and “walking away unscathed after my young horse somersaulted over a hedge in the Vale of Belvoir,” Clayton fully understands: “If you escape the worst you tend to re-mount, comforted by the illusion that it can’t happen to me.” A good read about a remarkable man. Dennis Foster is the former executive director of MFHA and the MFHA Foundation.
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SPRING 2017 | 39
LAST RUN OF THE DAY Photograph by David Traxler
Not My Size Photographer David Traxler caught Iroquois Watchtower checking out this bowler during a break at the 2016 Virginia Hound Show.
EDITOR’S NOTE: Do you have a photo, story or essay to share with Covertside? Send high-resolution, 300 dpi photographs or essays to editor@covertside.net, or snail mail to Covertside, 2329 Lakeview Rd. SW, Albuquerque, NM 87105 40 | COVERTSIDE
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