Covertside Spring 2018

SANTA YNEZ’S CONSERVATION PROJECT • UK HOUND SHOWS • AN HISTORIC JOURNEY

THE MAGAZINE OF MOUNTED FOXHUNTING

SPRING 2018 • $5.00

sJ o h n C o l e s 2 018 s

“A Virginia Horseman Specializing in Virginia Horse Properties” oAKeNDALe

rALLywooD

SToNeLeDge

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. $4,400,000

This grand 101 acre equestrian estate in the Warrenton Hunt Territory and is within easy reach of Washington DC. Elegant custom-built home with 11,000 sf, smartwired, 3 finished levels-all accessible by elevator. Features include 12-foot ceilings, heart pine floors and granite and Viking kitchen. Guest cottage, Barn, 2 streams, Stocked pond. Stunning countryside retreat. $3,475,000

greeN gArDeN

wAVerLy fArM

LANDMArK

c.1823, with a stunning tree lined entrance, offers one of the grand manor homes in the famed horse country of Upperville and Piedmont Hunt. Recently renovated, the home offers wonderful indoor and outdoor living areas.

Porches, gardens, barns, paddocks, riding arena, pond, pool and magnificent mountain views. $3,200,000

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. $3,200,000

Stone posts and walls mark the entrance to the 133 acre estate of Landmark. As the driveway gently rises, and circles in front of the handsome two-story stone manor house, one notices that the home is sited perfectly to enjoy the expansive mountain views from the Bull Run to the Blue Ridge. The setting for this 4 bedroom, 4 bath residence is further heightened by the massive boxwoods and the stately trees. $2,790,000

The epitome of an exquisite Virginia hunt country estate in prime Orange County Hunt territory. From the William Lawrence Bottomley designed Manor house to the meticulously manicured gardens, grounds, dependencies and the hundreds of acres of surrounding pastures with protected view-sheds.

333 acres @ $8,990,000 or 837 acres @ $17,990,000

MeADowgroVe

DeSTiNAire fArM

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. $2,995,000

Impeccably maintained, this exquisite 118 acre horse farm has 10 fields and paddocks of 4 board fencing, gently rolling land & panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mtns. In addition to the stucco and stone main residence, there are guest and tenant homes, numerous barns and run-ins to house 25 horses comfortably, an indoor dressage ring, outdoor arena and pond.$2,750,000

MiDDLeburg LAND

145+ acres of land in sought after location on Mountville Road near Foxcroft School. Several home sites with wonderful views and vistas yet extremely private, half wooded and half pasture with over 2,000’ of Goose Creek frontage. Minutes from Middleburg with easy access to Dulles International Airport and Washington DC. Middleburg Hunt Territory. $2,465,250

LAND

greeN gArDeN LAND

riDgeView

BLACK ROCK - Great elevation, fantastic views, open land, woodlands and river frontage on the Rappahannock. 726.66 acres in 14 parcels, all 50 acres or larger. Accessed from Hume Road & Black Rock Ford. Mixed game for hunting.

Great opportunity for tax credits. $2,979,300

Beautiful rolling land with excellent views of the Blue Ridge just outside of Upperville. 93+ Acres in a great location. This is a portion of Tax ID#:656382092000 and is subject to Loudoun County approval. $1,397,173

FRED WARREN LANE - 137.74 acres with frontage on Little River, Open Space Easement, rolling fields with mature hardwood forest, Orange County Hunt Territory, great ride out, very private, within 5 miles of the village of Middleburg. 3600 view. $2,534,500 BEARS DEN - Enjoy the pastoral views from this prime 151.61 Acre Hunt Country Property. 3 parcels of open land, pond, stream & woods. Desirable Leeds Manor Rd. $1,060,000

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. $1,095,000

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

SPRING 2018 • VOLUME 9, NUMBER 1

Features 14 KEEPING DEVELOPERS AT BAY

BY JOANNE MESZOLY

One California hunt takes a proactive approach to land conservation.

18 HOUND SHOWS ACROSS THE POND

BY OCTAVIA POLLOCK

A grand tradition of country sport dots the United Kingdom’s summer calendar.

24 RETRACING ROYAL FOOTSTEPS

Page 14

BY DEIRDRE HANNA

Santa Ynez wins the 2017 Hunting Habitat Award.

IN EACH ISSUE:

8

12

History and hunting collide in an epic journey.

From the Executive Director p.2 From the Publisher p.4 MFHA News p.6 Last Run of the Day p.32

27

ASK THE LANDOWNER Trust and respect are key to the landowner/hunt relationship

28

BETTER HUNTING The difficult but rewarding job of the hilltopper field master

THE CLUB Why We Hunt, and Bridlespur’s efforts toward sustainability.

YOUNG ENTRY Unique opportunities help kids to understand our sport

30

FOXHUNTER’S LIBRARY New and noteworthy titles for spring and summer ON OUR COVER: Hounds at attention at the Peterborough Festival of Hunting, in the United Kingdom.

Photo by Sarah Farnsworth.

SPRING 2018 | 1

FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Ref lections

A

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 Patrick A. 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

LIZ CALLAR

s I look back at 2017, I can see my learning curve, which started with my personal perception. Like many, I did not fully understand the scope that the MFHA covers in supporting the growth of our sport, access to land, development and maintenance of our sporting standards, as well as fostering conservation throughout North America. While learning all this has deepened my appreciation for the MFHA, I find that the most important aspect of this organization is the community we create as we band together to celebrate a common love.

As I visit more hunts each week, both mounted and foot packs, I find we are a very diverse group from many socioeconomic backgrounds. In larger scope, there are many issues about which not all agree, but isn’t that the case in any community? What we do share is a love for the countryside, our hounds and horses, and the community we have created with these passions. We support the farmer, the forester, the young, and the old. When out hunting, there is a shared adrenaline that creates bonds. Our hunt countries root us with a sense of place and tradition. Our appreciation for the countryside drives us to conserve this landscape and way of life for future generations.

In 2018, we look at membership as a two-way relationship. The MFHA must strive to strengthen members through education and advocacy on behalf of the countryside. We must come together to celebrate our sport and land. You strengthen the MFHA with your membership, your

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

viewpoints, your ideas, and your volunteerism. We want the public and our elected officials to see us as the large, united community we are, championing the rural point of view. To do this, we need to grow our numbers. Invite your hunting friends. Give a membership as a gift. Talk to other club members who have not yet joined. Together, we will proudly celebrate our country sports and traditions.

Good hunting,

W. David Twiggs Executive Director and Keeper of the Stud Book, 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 • Mrs. Coleman P. Perrin, MFH Western • Susan Denny Gentry, 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

THE

Fian Preserving the tradition of a supremely elegant hat

Available in black, navy, brown (grey & green by special order)

BY APPOINTMENT TO HER MAJESTY THE QUEEN PROTECTIVE HEADWEAR MANUFACTURERS WREXHAM

#Safety365 MADE IN BRITAIN

Kitemarked to VG1 01.040 2014-12

VG1 01.040 2014-12

Certified by SEI to ASTM F1163-15

www.charlesowen.com

FROM THE PUBLISHER

SPRING 2018

Spring Gatherings

F

ROBERT KORNACKI

ORM AND FUNCTION: foxhounds embody this ethos, and in our spring issue we celebrate gatherings of hounds and those who love them (all of us!).

The spring and summer shows are one of the few places where many foxhunters gather to ogle; to judge; to enjoy; and—of course—to eat, drink, and shop.

This spring, however, we take a look at the world of hound shows from a dif-

ferent perspective: “across the pond,” as we like to say. There, you’ll find hounds of different stripes: wooly Welsh hounds, harriers and beagles, coursing hounds, and bloodhounds. You’ll also find hunt relays; riding and shooting events; hats and flowery dresses; jugs of Pimms; the occasional American judge (scrolling

4 | COVERTSIDE

through photographs, I spotted Marty Wood and Dennis Foster, among others); and impeccably attired hunt staff feeding their hounds biscuits by the dozens.

These shows happen in late summer, and UK foxhunting journalist Octavia Pollock provides a nice round-up, so if you happen to be traveling abroad this summer you’ll be able to plan ahead.

Speaking of the UK, Deirdre Hanna, who writes for Hounds magazine, recasts her great piece on an historic event featuring French barons, chateaux, and a 400-year history. What could be better?

Another theme emerged in this issue: conservation. It’s a subject the importance of which cannot be overstated.

This year’s Hunting Habitat Conservation Award Winner, featured on page 14, the Santa Ynez Valley Hounds, might seem like they have all the land they need—it is California, after all. Yet they’ve worked hard to preserve their country from future development and to provide a lesson we can all learn from: Preserve now, before it’s too late.

We hope you enjoy this issue. As always, comments, letters, and contributions are encouraged and welcomed!

Kick on!

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/PUBLISHER EMILY ESTERSON publisher@covertside.net 505-553-2671 ART DIRECTOR GLENNA STOCKS production@covertside.net

EDITORIAL ASSOCIATE EDITOR Alissa Moe alissa@e-squarededit.net STAFF WRITER/ ECOVERTSIDE.NET EDITOR MARTHA DRUM martha@covertside.net

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS DEIRDRE HANNA OCTAVIA POLLOCK JOANNE MESZOLY

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

Emily Esterson Editor-in-Chief/Publisher

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

2017 September Massbach/FRVH Performance Trials…. Sept 15-17 Chagrin Valley Joint Meet………….. ….Sept 22-24 Carolina Foothill Field Hunter Trials……Sept 23-24 Green Spring Valley Hunter Trials…………..…….Sept 24 Millbrook Hunt Performance Trials…..Sept 24-26 Rose Tree-Blue Mountain Joint Meet………………….…Sept 29

October Camargo Hunter Trials……………………..….Oct 7 Piedmont Fox Hounds Hunter Trials ………………...……..Oct 8 Moore County Hounds Hound Trials.....................Oct 13-15

VA Fall Races-Randolph Field Hunter Championships …………Oct 14

November

March

Keswick Field Hunter Championships..….........Nov 5 Rocky Mountain Field Hunter Championship/Arapahoe Joint Meet …………….Nov 8-12

Wicomico Hunt Performance Trials..…….Mar 2-4

Junior NA Field Hunter Championships.…..Nov 10-12

Mission Valley Performance Trials……….Mar 16-18 .

Bear Creek Southern Puppy Show` ………...……Mar 17

Field Hunter Trial Championships– TIEC…..….Nov 17-19

Sedgefield Hunt Performance Trials….Mar 30-Apr 01

December

April

Hillsboro Hounds Performance Trials…….Nov 30-Dec 2

Southern Hound Show….........Apr 7 Arapahoe Hunt Performance Trials.……..…...Apr 6-8 Southwest Hound Show …….Apr 21

2018 January Aiken Hounds Drag Performance Trials……………Jan 10-12 Bear Creak Hounds Joint Meet…………………………Jan 10-13 Lowcountry Joint Meet………Jan 11-14 Belle Meade Performance Trials..… ……...Jan 18-20

February Tejon Hounds Performance Trials..……...Feb 8-10

Carolinas (Whiskey Road) Field Hunter Qualifier…….......Oct 15

Mooreland Hunt Joint Meet…………………….Feb 22-24

Bull Run/Rappahannock Performance Trials………….Oct 19-21

Live Oak Presidential Joint Meet……………….Feb 28-Mar 4

May New England Hound Show…...May 6 Carolinas Hound Show…….…..May 12 Central States Hound Show....May 12 Penn-Marydel Hound Show….May 12 Virginia Hound Show…………...May 27

June Bryn Mawr Hound Show…..…Jun 2 Please contact the host Hunt for more information.

Some fields may be limited.

Check www.mfha.com for additions and changes.

MFHA NEWS

4 AT THE MFHA BOARD OF

in the National Junior Field Hunt-

develop seminars to educate

4 DR. JACK VAN NAGELL

DIRECTORS MEETING, held

er Championships held there two

and support professional and

PRESENTED THE 2018 HUNT-

January 25, 2018, the follow-

years ago. Stepping onto the

honorary staff.

ING HABITAT CONSERVATION

ing masters were elected to

board are Mrs. Coleman P. Perrin

Penny Denegre announced

membership: Willam Burkland

of Deep Run Hunt to replace Fer-

plans for the upcoming Biennial

Hounds (see story on page

and Fritz Teroerde, Rolling Rock

rer in representing the Virginia

Seminar, to be held from June

14). Masters Steve Lyons, Paul

Hunt (CE); Dr. M. Nixon Ellis,

district and Susan Denny Gentry

22–24 in Alexandria and Mount

McEnroe, and Bonnie Hayden

Camden Hunt (C); Fernanda

of Cloudline Hounds (TX) to re-

Vernon, Virginia. The renamed

recapped decades of thoughtful

Kellogg, Millbrook (NY/NJ);

place Dorrier in representing the

seminar will include, among

land acquisition and easements

and Samuel Massey, Cloudline

Western district. T. Garrick Steele

other activities, a symposium

that have protected several

Hounds (W).

will join the MFHA Foundation

on hound judging by Daphne

thousand contiguous acres. The

Board for a two-year term. Cedar

and Marty Wood, and an

presentation was accompa-

4 THE BOARD THANKED BOB

Knob Foxhounds (TN) was ap-

opportunity for attendees to

nied by spectacular images of

FERRER (VA) AND JOHN DOR-

proved to move from registered

enjoy a private tour of Wash-

hounds out in their country and

RIER (W), two district directors

to fully recognized status.

ington’s home. Details will be

highlighted the benefits for the

forthcoming.

local area.

who have served their terms.

AWARD to Santa Ynez Valley

Additionally, the board acknowl-

4 EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

edged Nancy Ambrosiano,

DAVID TWIGGS spoke about

4 AT THE MEETING ON JANU-

4 ADDITIONALLY, THE MFHA

United States Pony Clubs liaison,

strategic planning for the

ARY 26, Twiggs described new

RECEIVED THE ANSON W.

for her service. USPC Director of

future. He detailed goals to en-

emphasis on regional activities

TAYLOR, JR. AWARD for Lead-

Development Marian Wahlgren

ergize and expand the subscrib-

for member hunts and

ership in Land Conservation

will replace Ambrosiano as USPC

ing membership, to connect

expanding our public relations

from the Equine Land Conser-

liaison. Wahlgren is a member of

mounted foxhunting with other

outreach, especially in the area

vation Resource. The ELCR is

Iroquois Hunt and was involved

sporting communities, and to

of land conservation.

a prominent national advocate

6 | COVERTSIDE

for the protection of open space

tryside Alliance. Lord Mancroft

for all equestrian activities,

gave a brief review of the history

and this honor recognizes an

of mounted foxhunting in British

“outstanding contribution to

rural society and the place of

preserving land for equine use.”

each hunt as the heart of its local

ELCR President Ken Haddad, an

community. He observed that this

active foxhunter, noted that the

position, with deep connections

MFHA has helped to conserve

among people from different ar-

over 1.5 million private acres and

eas of society, protected hunting

another 1.2 million public acres.

from political threats until nearly

“The Hunting Habitat Conserva-

the end of the 20th century. As

tion Award epitomizes why ELCR

the population shifted to urban

is giving the Anson Taylor Award

areas, hunting was no longer

to the MFHA, a recognition that

seen as the center of the com-

is long overdue,” he told the au-

munity. Lord Mancroft identified

dience at the annual meeting.

hunting’s value to conservationists and nature lovers as a po-

4 THE ANNUAL MEETING

tential response to anti-hunting

KEYNOTE SPEAKER WAS LORD

threats going forward. Communi-

MANCROFT, chairman of the

cating our sport’s importance to

Masters of Foxhounds Associa-

the “green” movement, then, is

tion in the UK, chairman of the

the next challenge in helping us

Council of Hunting Association,

to protect its future.

and vice chairman of the Coun-

SPRING 2018 | 7

THE CLUB

WHAT’S ON ECOVERTSIDE.NET? Are you keeping up with the

ALLISON HOWELL

foxhunting community through our email newsletter? We share

Belle Meade’s opening hunt

original articles and new im-

has become an exciting

ages online each month.

community event.

WHY WE HUNT

It’s a healthy addiction to people, place, and the outdoors.

BY KEITH GRAY, MFH, MILL CREEK HUNT

CONSERVATION: Susanna Colloredo-Mansfeld received the New England District Conservation Award for her accomplishments protecting the equestrian landscape in Myopia Hunt Club’s country, north of Boston, MA. Search: Myopia

HOW TIMES HAVE CHANGED!

man interactions occur regularly

sad), is that there seems to be

EQUESTRIAN: Red Rock

While enjoying a beverage with

after a hunt when talking about

endless documentation of how

Hounds (NV) hosted a unique

riders after one of the Hark

the run, the view, the wreck, the

this same feeling is achieved

invitational field—carriages!—

Forward hound performance

ill-behaved horse, or any of the

through social media.

following hounds across their

trials, someone commented that

experiences that make each

their hunt country is so remote

hunt so unique.

that they can’t get cell service

Rupert Isaacson captures this

One of the papers I read talked about the Pavlovian effect

spectacular open country.

Search: Carriage

of social media; how the expec-

or run their navigator—and the

phenomena beautifully in his

tation of a text, or the ding of

HOUNDS: Performance trials

uncomfortable feeling of being

book The Wild Host: “I love the

an incoming message causes

in Illinois, New York, North

disconnected that this caused.

sense of community—the break-

a dopamine rush well ahead of

Carolina, Tennessee, and Vir-

One of the underappreci-

down of social barriers, the unity

the recipient ever knowing the

ginia recognized hardworking

ated draws to foxhunting is the

of a common love of the activity

content. There is truth to social

hounds from dozens of packs

abundance of opportunities

that, on a good day, breaks

media being addictive.

and provided camaraderie (and

for connection to others in real

open our class-bound society

In reading that research, I

life. The art of giving directions

and allows a warmth of human

think I stumbled on yet another

pants hailing from Canada to

to a remote meet where signs

feeling to shine through.”

contributing factor as to why so

Florida. Search: Performance

many people are inexplicably

trials

are a rarity and roads are not

I’ve written previously

bragging rights) for partici-

in orderly grids requires one to

about the positive biomedical

drawn to foxhunting: it’s not

recall and describe landmarks,

reactions in our body brought

only the real-life human interac-

JUNIORS: Good sportsman-

fencing, geography, and best

about through our connection

tion that we instinctively need,

ship and future leaders were

guesses at distances or time.

to animals, nature, or physical

but the Pavlovian effect that

on display at the Junior North

There is an interaction during

activity. This might help explain

the sight of friends, the smooth

American Field Hunter Champi-

that conversation that is very

why approximately 50% of

feel of a horse’s hair, the sound

onships, hosted by Belle Meade

human. The speaker needs

paying members of hunt clubs

of a diesel engine, and the taste

in Georgia. Search: Youthful

to read the face and body

in the United States don’t hunt!

of port have on us as we antici-

language of the listener and,

Humans have evolved over thou-

pate the next adventure we will

TO FIND MORE: At the top of

if purely verbal, ascertain how

sands of years by being social

share with others.

the ecovertside.net homepage,

much of what is said is being

creatures (protecting, hunting,

understood. There is no “drop-

etc.) and we’re wired to feel

a healthy dose of the smell of

and receive future newslet-

ping a pin” or entering an ad-

good (dopamine is again the

clean leather.

ters automatically. We offer

dress into a mapping app; we’re

science behind this) when we in-

forced to connect the old way

teract with each other, leaving us

by talking, listening, and reading

with a desire to do it repeatedly.

each other. This exchange has

(For more on this, just Google

nothing to do with cell service

social interaction dopamine).

signal strength. The same hu-

What is surprising (and to me,

8 | COVERTSIDE

I’ll take my dopamine with

you’ll find links to subscribe

many affordable options for Keith Gray is Master of the Mill Creek Hunt and owns ILM, an environmental consulting company.

advertisers, too—please email sales@covertside.net for more information.

landscape nursery business for

beautifully turned out and well-

several decades.

mounted, Jones also possessed

After moving to South

a sparkling sense of humor.

Carolina and joining the hunt

Goshen Master Tom Pardoe

club, Peace became Master

recalls his “joyous spirit, intent

in 2012. Huntsman Katherine

on showing sport to the field

Gunter said, “She always rode

and providing for a pleasurable

in my pocket and is sorely

day for all.”

missed as a Master, a wonderful

JOANN HILL PEACE, MFH, AIKEN HOUNDS, 1951–2017

After joining New Market-

friend and mentor, and a truly

Middletown Valley to be closer

passionate foxhunter.” Peace’s

to his Washington, D.C., busi-

devotion to foxhunting was only exceeded by her dedication to her family. She is survived by her husband Jim, her sister Kathy, sons Jamie and Will, along with

RICHARD P. JONES, JR.,

EX-MFH, GOSHEN HOUNDS, 1946–2017

ness, Jones mentored many aspiring riders as “Papa Rick.”

On December 3, 2017, Goshen Hounds met in Jones’s honor, with more than 60 riders in the

three grandchildren and many

JOEY PEACE passed away De-

family members. Donations in

BELOVED FORMER MASTER

meet was preceded by a bless-

cember 3, following a fall in the

her memory may be made to

AT GOSHEN HOUNDS, and

ing and followed by a celebra-

hunt field. Peace grew up on a

Aiken Hounds, 331 Fairfield Street

later a member at New Market-

tion of life at the kennels. He

horse farm in then-rural Tow-

SE, Aiken, SC 29801; Hitchcock

Middletown Valley Hounds, both

is survived by his wife Karen;

son, Maryland, and attended St.

Woods Foundation, PO Box

in Maryland, Rick Jones passed

daughter Kathy and her hus-

Paul’s School and the University

1702, Aiken, SC 29802; St Paul’s

away on November 18 after a

band Robert Taylor, MFH and

of Maryland. She debuted at the

Church, 7579 Sandy Bottom

long illness. He enjoyed racing

huntsman, Goshen Hounds; and

Green Spring Valley Hunt Club,

Road, Chestertown, MD 21620;

over fences, as well as hunt-

two grandchildren, Mackenzie

and married James Peace in 1977.

and the Humane Society of Kent

ing, and was asked to serve as

and Hunter, who carry on his

They moved to a farm in Ches-

County, 10720 Augustine Herman

joint Master in 1990, continuing

love of horses and sport.

tertown, where they managed a

Hwy, Chestertown, MD 21620.

in that role until 2003. Always

MASTERS OF FOXHOUNDS ASSOCIATION

AIKEN HOUNDS (SC) MASTER

field from many area hunts. The

2018 BIENNIAL SEMINAR June 22-24

Mount Vernon | Alexandria, VA

FEATURING A CELEBRATION OF GEORGE WASHINGTON AMERICA’S FIRST PRESIDENT & MOST FAMOUS FOXHUNTER

Seminar Topics Include...

OPENING NEW TERRITORY: Making the Most of a Finite Resource DIFFERENT HOUND BREEDS & THEIR CONFIRMATION: Which Breed is Best for You? RETOOLING THE THOROUGHBRED RACEHORSE: Using the Almost Unlimited Source of Prospective Foxhunters

EVENT & REGISTRATION DETAILS COMING SOON! VISIT WWW.MFHA.COM Must be a Subscribing Member to attend.

SPRING 2018 | 9

THE CLUB

Bridlespur’s zeal for conservation has a long history, starting with the Busch family. Left, Huntsman Eleanor Hart-

PHOTOS COURTESY MICHAEL MURPHY

well with hounds.

tion was progressive—during his tenure, county parklands expanded from 1,000 to 13,000 acres of land that included wildlife habitat, river walks, and

PARTNERSHIP IN LAND STEWARDSHIP

equestrian open space. Also in the 1970s, an additional state constitutional amendment was passed, funding the MDC with a state sales tax.

By the 2000s, urban sprawl

Bridlespur Hunt efforts support the land and sustain the club.

forced the club to either find a

BY KEITH GRAY AND MICHAEL J. MURPHY

ters Gene Deutsch and Werner

new hunt territory or fold. MasKugler led the club in its quest

CELEBRATING ITS 90TH

part of the St. Louis area. Ac-

wildlife ecology and the public

for a new location and helped

YEAR THIS SEASON, the Bri-

cording to the City of Huntleigh,

wilderness system in the United

define three requisites:

dlespur Hunt near St. Louis,

MO, website: “Our topogra-

States and the author of many

MO, is the oldest hunt west of

phy, consisting of rolling hills,

essays on the subject, visited

section of land so as to not

the Mississippi River and has

forest-like woods, and meadows

Missouri during a trip from New

be vulnerable to the effect of

evolved in ways that serve as

proved perfect for riding horses.

Mexico to Wisconsin. He wrote:

future development.

a model for the future of many

[Edward E. ] Bakewell and

“The zeal for conservation

other hunt clubs.

August A. Busch, Sr., founded

burns very brightly here in Mis-

ready in conservation easement

It’s a familiar scenario:

1. That the club own a large

2. That obtaining land al-

the Bridlespur Hunt, a fox-

souri.” This action would later

would enable the club to gain

maintaining a viable club can

hunting club, on Squires Lane

prove to be key to the future of

more property per dollar than if

be challenging once hunt club

in 1927. Club members later put

the Bridlespur Hunt.

it were still developable.

founders move on and hunt

in a steeplechase course … Bri-

territory changes thanks to

dlespur was suspended during

ment forced a move farther

would include a working farm,

growing suburban populations.

World War II and never brought

west, across the Missouri River

with this income helping to

Over the years, the leaders of

back to life in Huntleigh.”

into St. Charles County, where

offset club costs.

Bridlespur have taken what

Within 30 years, develop-

3. That, ideally, the land

Separately, but around

land at the time was thought to

some may view as setbacks and

the same time as the club’s

be so open it would be immune

acres in Lincoln County, MO,

turned them into opportunities

founding, a group of hunters,

from conceivable sprawl. Local

owned by the Carlson family,

that have led to a sustainable

politicians, and farmers met in

landowners were keen to

who had protected the land

operation, with income and

Columbia, MO, to draft a state

allow the club to hunt the

through the MDC due to the

with potential for growth.

constitutional amendment to

land, and the future of the club

extraordinary geologic features

create the Missouri Conserva-

seemed safe.

found there. The Masters set

Bridlespur was founded with

Bridlespur purchased 1,400

the support and assistance of

tion Agency (later called the

Wayne Kennedy, director of

about creating partnerships

August Busch, Sr., son of the

Missouri Department of Con-

St. Louis County Parks and Rec-

that would shape the club’s

founder of Anheuser Busch, and

servation, or MDC), which was

reation, was a Bridlespur Master

future. An early meeting with

later the president and CEO of

adopted during the Depression,

during the 1970s, and seems to

John Hoskins, director of the

the company. The club hunted

with the support of 70% of the

have helped influence a culture

MDC (recall the hunters/politi-

land in west St. Louis County

voters. Participant Aldo Leo-

of conservation within the club.

cians/farmers from 65 years

that is now the most exclusive

pold, considered the father of

His vision of land conserva-

ago), whose function it is to

10 | COVERTSIDE

SUSTAINABILITY IN MANY WAYS BUT WAIT, THERE’S MORE! Bridlespur planners gave some thought to enhancing club funding when they were looking for land.

Now, 15 years later, funding is coming from various unexpected sources: HORSE SHOWS. There are three each year, with their locations tied to former hunt territories where the events draw participants as much for the competition as for the nostalgia.

located. Mr. Esely would play an

partner with the club by allow-

land restoration as well as par-

important role over the next de-

ing hikers and birders to walk

ticipate in social and equestrian

cade by advising Bridlespur on

mapped trails so that there is no

activities. Club funding has been

what land management steps

conflict with hunting activities.

diversified and stabilized, with

should be taken to improve

This arrangement has created

the hunted country set up for

habitat and qualify for funding.

tremendous goodwill with the

growth for future generations of

All of these efforts culmi-

public at large and agencies

hunters. Perhaps most impor-

nated in a culture that current

who care about and fund pro-

tantly, the club has become a

Bridlespur members embrace:

grams to help Missouri residents

good neighbor by sharing and

There is no difference between

enjoys the state’s natural

stewarding the land with a vari-

good habitat and good hunting

resources. The land owned and

ety of other hunters and wildlife

grounds. Good land prac-

hunted by the Bridlespur Hunt

lovers, whether they are chasing

tices and the management of

is now recognized in journals

fox, deer, mushrooms, or hoping

a productive hunt country are

as Missouri’s favorite scenic-

for a glimpse of local and migra-

synonymous.

birdwatching area.

tory birds that are attracted to

An ambitious plan was impleDEER HUNTERS. The improved habitat in the hunt country has resulted in a very desirable deer population. Being near a metropolitan area now has its advantages, as deer hunters pay a fee to be able to hunt the property on days when hounds are not out.

SHARECROPPING. Local farmers work the land in ways that align with responsible land management practices, with the club sharing in the profits from the harvested crop.

CONSERVATION RESERVE PROGRAM. This project creates funding to responsibly manage farmland.

MISSOURI RECREATIONAL ACCESS PROGRAM. Hikers gain trail access, creating tremendous goodwill with the public.

With an awareness of the

mented that improved farming

value of nature and open space

practices, controlled invasive

and a strong and insightful lead-

plant growth, and encour-

ership over the years, the Bri-

aged natural plant succession

dlespur Hunt has ensured their

through prescribed burning.

future in a way that epitomizes

The MDC provides 90–100% of

what foxhunting clubs can be:

all restoration funding. As the

a friend to nature by preserving

saying goes, conservation with-

and caring for the land, and en-

out funding is conversation.

gaging members who help with

the area.

Keith Gray is Master of the Mill Creek Hunt, and owns ILM, an environmental consulting company.

Micheal J. Murphy hunts with Bridlespur and shepherds the club’s many conservation and community programs.

Today, members of the club carry on the traditions started

by Mr. Busch, et al. They work with the Great Rivers Land Trust to identify nearby land already conserved for purchase and inclusion in the habitat restoration program, thus expanding the hunt territory. The noticeable results of these efforts and connections has netted unexpected opportunities. The club hosts conservation groups and high school classes to explore the rich variety of plants and unique geologic characteristics of the land. And hunting

restore public and private land

isn’t limited to the traditional

suffering from a variety of poor

quarry—the Missouri Mycologial

management practices, such as

Society visits the club as part

timber clearcutting, overgraz-

of the “Mycological Mounted

ing, erosion issues, and invasive

Hunt,” where riders endeavor

plant species, led to countless

to find all kinds of mushrooms

useful connections. The Masters

growing in the hunt country,

also met with the department’s

followed by a mounted tea and

chief biologist Jeff Esely, who

mushroom feast.

had grant authority in the

Recently, the Missouri

Cuivre River Watershed, where

Outdoor Recreational Access

the new hunt country would be

Program (MRAP) has become a

SPRING 2018 | 11

YOUNG ENTRY

Potomac Juniors Do More than Just Ride Unique learning opportunities expand kids’ understanding of our sport.

BY MARTHA DRUM PHOTO BY KAREN KANDRA WENZEL

M

any hunts offer occasional junior meets, invite capable young people to ride up with staff, and welcome members’ children in the field. Potomac Hunt (MD) offers participants in its junior program a deeper level of participation, open to riders and not-yet-riders alike.

Exploring a different theme each season, such as “Puppies” or “Landowners,” the group meets monthly at the kennels for learning, socializing, and getting to know the pack.

Potomac Hunt offers participants in its junior program a deeper level of participation, open to riders and not-yet-riders alike.

Member and area trainer Jennifer Queen initiated the program several years ago 12 | COVERTSIDE

with the board’s support and now co-coordinates activities with Joint Master Beverley Bosselmann. “Our goal is to have them learn about all the different aspects of foxhunting,” Queen says, “to broaden their horizons, rather than just have them show up at a meet and go.”

About 12 children, ages 9 to 17, pay a small membership fee and tackle projects related to the season’s theme. For example, during the year in which the theme was “Puppies,” the juniors weighed, walked, registered, and studied pedigrees on the MFHA database. Another season, children interviewed local landowners about the reasons why they did or did not permit the hunt on their land.

Welcoming children who may not own ponies is an important element to nurturing the sport and youth participation in it. Queen points out that active social members are critical to hunting’s success, and fostering a sense of

Beverley Bosselmann, MFH (left), Potomac Knockout, Bram Halpert, and Jennifer Queen celebrate a win at the 2016 Maryland Foxhound Show.

involvement and belonging strengthens the hunt’s connection to the community. “Even if this child doesn’t have a horse now, he or she might have a horse as an adult, and we want them to understand our sport.”

She adds that some parents of participating juniors, not riders themselves, have joined the club as social members after becoming involved in the youth program.

Several special events throughout the year support the juniors’ projects. The Maryland Puppy Show is an opportunity to show hounds.

At the annual meeting in April, the children present reports on

their research to the full membership. An in-house Puppy Tea, held in the spring, is a chance to display their handling skills and enjoy a party.

Queen emphasizes that hunt clubs need to communicate with show and lesson stables.

“Kids at my last barn asked what I do with my mustang, and when I replied that I foxhunt, they couldn’t believe it! They asked, ‘You mean like in those old pictures?’ And that facility is just six miles from our kennels. We need to do more to reach out.”

Martha Drum is a contributing writer to Covertside.

PREMIUM FEEDS. GREAT VALUE. Tri-County Feeds — fixed ingredient formulas designed to meet the specific nutritional needs of your horse. Quality feeds from the name you’ve trusted for 40 years.

PHOTO BY LIZ CALLAR

7408 John Marshall Hwy. › Marshall, VA 20115 540-364-1891 › tricountyfeeds.com

SPRING 2018 | 13

Keeping Developers at Bay ONE CALIFORNIA HUNT TAKES A PROACTIVE APPROACH TO LAND CONSERVATION.

BY JOANNE MESZOLY PHOTOS BY TIFFANY EVITTS

14 | COVERTSIDE

T

HE SANTA YNEZ VALLEY HOUNDS, IN SANTA BARBARA COUNTY, CALIFORNIA, IS BLESSED WITH ACCESS TO MORE HUNT COUNTRY THAN THEY CAN USE—NOT A BAD PROBLEM TO HAVE.

Nestled in Santa Barbara’s wine country about three hours north of Los Angeles, the Santa Ynez Valley Hounds (SYVH) are situated in a relatively isolated area consisting of large swaths of rolling pasture, coastal oak woodland, and coastal scrub—thousands of acres where hounds are free to pursue their primary quarry, coyote, without some of the more vexing suburban hindrances to hunting. It’s a place where vineyards, rather than subdivisions, are more likely to encroach on hunt country.

While the SYVH enjoy this venerable hunting haven, the Masters and members aren’t oblivious to the fact that California is the most populated state in the nation. And no region is impervious to development forever, not without taking proactive measures.

“There are new houses being built 1.3 miles down the road from my ranch,” says SYVH Master Paul McEnroe, whose Buellton

property once housed the club’s kennels. In the early 2000s, Paul and his wife, Tina Hansen McEnroe, placed a perpetual conservation easement on their 1,008-acre property, Rancho La Purisima, and today, it serves as the club’s second-largest huntable fixture.

Fortunately, thousands of other acres of hunting territory are also protected, most notably Kick On Ranch, owned by SYVH Master Steven Lyons and his wife, Cindy Lyons. The hounds are kenneled on this 2,550-acre property, but over several years, Lyons has purchased adjoining parcels, selling any property to neighbors who are willing to place their land under hunting or conservation easements. At present, a total of 4,400 acres are protected by a permanent easement, while an additional 2,300 adjoining acres are covered by a hunting easement.

Still, the Kick On fixture contains even more accessible land.

“We can hunt on 11,000 acres and encounter only nine houses,” says Lyons. “But we don’t draw on all of those acres. I bought my first parcel here in 1998, and since then,

Home to the SYVH, Kick On Ranch’s 2,550 acres is adjacent to thousands of acres that are also under conservation easement.

SPRING 2018 | 15

BEYOND THE LINE OF FIRE In early December, Steve Lyons was out of the country, but Paul and Tina McEnroe housed evacuees for 10 days during the Thomas Fire. Although the McEnroes’ Rancho La Purisima was safe from the uncontained blaze, the smoke and ash were inescapable.

When we spoke in mid-December, the Thomas Fire was 30% contained, but even 20 to 30 miles away on the McEnroe ranch, parked cars were blanketed in white ash and the family and guests donned masks while outside.

“The air quality was terrible,” said Paul.

“People were at risk for inhaling the harmful, small particles. That’s why we wore masks for four days.”

Conditions weren’t much different farther north at the kennels on Kick On Ranch. The Santa Ynez Valley Hounds suspended for several days and exercise of hounds and horses was restricted due to poor air quality.

According to McEnroe, a natural firebreak would have prevented the blaze from reaching the hunt’s fixtures, but the Thomas Fire ranks as the largest wildfire in California’s recorded history.

16 | COVERTSIDE

I’ve bought more land when possible. But when I resell, it’s to friendly buyers who are [receptive] to the hunt and to land preservation easements. I love this area and I want to see it remain this way for future generations.”

Masters aren’t the only ones to commit to conservation; cattle ranchers and other neighboring landowners have also placed their properties under protective land agreements. The McEnroes serve on the legacy counsel for the California Rangeland Trust, an arm of the California Cattleman’s Association. To date, the California Rangeland Trust has preserved 250,000 acres of rangeland.

These efforts were recognized by the MFHA Foundation, which awarded their 2018 Hunting Habitat Conservation Award to the SYVH. But Daphne Flowers Wood, MFHA conservation chairman, notes that the hunt club’s efforts surpass mere land preservation. “You want the winner to be deserving, and they were the clear winner,” says Wood. “Not only because they’re proactive about land conservation, but because they reach out to the public in a significant way.

They are addressing ecological issues, and they also offer an educational component. It shows that they are interested in more than preserving huntable land. They are interested in coexisting with the community.”

ECOLOGICAL EXPERIMENT

Retaining rangeland for rural use doesn’t just benefit foxhunters; it also maintains open space and safe passage for California’s native wildlife. With culvert passages under Highway 101, coyote, deer, bobcat, and many other species migrate from the woodlands and grasslands of Kick On Ranch to undeveloped state parkland and national forests. What’s more, Lyons has welcomed biologists interested in studying the habitat of the endangered California tiger salamander. “Some land owners are reluctant to invite governmental agencies onto their land,” says Lyons, “but I invite them out.”

Not far from Kick On Ranch is The Chamberlin Ranch, “one of our best fixtures,” Lyons says. This ranch of 8,000 acres also provides an inviting habitat for local species, and the Chamberlins have also been receptive to land stewardship programs, most notably participating in progressive studies with the district conservation program. Though the agricultural sector accounts for just 10% of US greenhouse gas emissions (according to the EPA), experts are actively studying alternative management strategies to capture excess carbon and store it in the soil. In 2014, the Chamberlin Ranch became one of 17 sites

In this part of California, vineyards encroach on huntable land.

nineteenth-century school day at the Pleasant Valley Schoolhouse.

Originally built in the Santa Maria Valley in 1869, the Pleasant Valley Schoolhouse was a one-room structure used to teach eight grades. The building was expanded in the late 1800s and remained open, teaching class sizes ranging from 15 to 40 students a year, until its closure in 1935. Later converted into a residence, the schoolhouse was relocated and used for ranch housing and storage. By 2006, when the McEnroes purchased it and moved it to their ranch,

in California to take part in a carbon farming pilot study. Since then, Ted Chamberlin has participated in several studies in the application of compost to improve soil health and water-holding capacity.

While ranchers like the Chamberlins assist with state and local studies of carbon sequestration, others, including the McEnroes, have focused on eradicating invasive species, such as the yellow-star thistle. This thorny plant, native to the European range, is toxic to horses and cattle when consumed on a cumulative basis (though horses usually avoid the plant when other forage is present). “It’s the single worst invasive plant that we have,” says McEnroe. “The seeds are very heavy, and since the plants grow along the edges of roads, the seeds gets caught up in truck tires and get deposited wherever those vehicles go.” On a local level, McEnroe waged war on the plant, but eradication is costly, as it requires helicopters to spread an effective herbicide.

KIDS WELCOME

Elementary school students are accustomed to traipsing through history museums to observe depictions of life in the “olden days,” but every year at Rancho La Purisima, hundreds of students get to experience a

It’s an educational school day that meets today’s curriculum, but with an 1890s style of teaching. The kids have spelling bees, stand for recitations, and use McGuffey readers, just as children would’ve in the 1800s.”

Kick On Ranch also opens its doors to the community, inviting campers from the Boy Scouts, the Boys and Girls Clubs, as well as hiking groups and many others to use the land, while the Chamberlin Ranch has become a popular destination for riding clubs, some of which hail from hundreds of miles away.

ORIGINALLY BUILT IN THE SANTA MARIA VALLEY IN 1869, THE PLEASANT VALLEY SCHOOLHOUSE WAS A ONE-ROOM STRUCTURE USED TO TEACH EIGHT GRADES.

the building had fallen into severe disrepair. They meticulously restored the structure with historic accuracy for its original intended use.

During the school year, students (typically first- and third-grade classes) are invited to step back in time. “My wife provides the teacher and students with authentic, periodappropriate costumes,” says McEnroe. “They walk to the school house carrying their lunch pails and Tina rings the school bell.

“We realize that we are in an enviable position, and we want to keep it that way,” says Lyons. “But what helps is that we keep the hunt connected to the community. We bring our hounds to local events and open our doors to hikers and artist groups. And Kick On Ranch is open to any kids’ group. Period.”

Joanne Meszoly hunts with Potomac and is a contributing writer for Covertside.

SPRING 2018 | 17

18 | COVERTSIDE

Hound Shows

A grand tradition of country sport dots the United Kingdom’s summer calendar.

BY OCTAVIA POLLOCK PHOTOS BY SARAH FARNSWORTH

Across the Pond Bowler hats, flowered dresses, jugs of Pimm’s and hordes of camera-ready hounds flood Britain’s

Left, exhibitors at the Great Yorkshire Hound Show prepare for judging, and above, beagles are part of the action at the Peterborough Festival of Hunting.

show grounds during the summer months.

Whatever the weather, blazing sunshine or torrential rain, hunting devotees will turn out in the thousands to watch judges examine every aspect of limb and wind. Hunt staff are impeccably attired, white breeches gleaming below freshly brushed coats and seemingly bottomless hidden pockets stuffed with biscuits for the four-legged entrants. The stars of hunts’ individual puppy shows—when a pack’s young entry is presented and indefatigable puppy walkers are celebrated before everyone decamps to a sumptuous afternoon tea—are presented alongside the stars of seasons past, in a pantheon of canine quality. There are seven principal hound shows in England and Wales, and all have their own character.

SPRING 2018 | 19

20 | COVERTSIDE

Seven to Savor SOUTH OF ENGLAND HOUND SHOW ARDINGLY, WEST SUSSEX Thursday, June 7 to Saturday, June 9 The first show of the season, known simply as Ardingly, is one to whet appetites for the coming summer. It forms part of the huge South of England agricultural show, a celebration of rural life that includes everything from noble bulls to the Shetland pony Grand National. Foxhounds are shown on Thursday and beagles on Friday, with local packs galloping together in a cavalcade in the main ring on Saturday.

Braver hunt staff will tackle the jumps set up for other competitions, which can have mixed results with horses exuberant after a few weeks off, but the sound of the horn always thrills the crowds and children love being allowed into the ring to hug hounds.

Crowds include non-hunting people as well as dedicated houndsmen and even royalty: In 2017, The Duchess of Cornwall presented the inaugural Young Hunt Staff award to Harry Davidson, Southdown & Eridge whipper-in.

WALES & BORDER COUNTIES HOUND SHOW BUILTH WELLS, WALES Thursday, June 28

CHAMPION DOGHOUND 2017: HEYTHROP RANSACK

Purely a celebration of hounds, Builth enjoys a glorious setting on the Royal Welsh showground, surrounded by the lush green hills of central Wales. There are no frivolous extras to this event, just the best hounds of the West, with rings for Welsh, Fell and English foxhounds, plus beagles, among which the woollies are definitely the stars of the show. The showing style is more like a traditional dog show such as Crufts, with entrants being stood up, rather than running loose as they do in other hound shows, and even the length of the shaggy ears is taken into account. No one is more proud of their hunting heritage than the Welsh, and the discourse from the rails is as knowledgeable as that in the center of the rings. As dusk falls, everyone gathers around the hound lorries in the showground’s vast cattle barns, where rafters are raised to the sound of voices singing the traditional ballads of Wales and the Fells. It is a spine-tingling end to a show no serious houndsman should miss.

CHAMPION BITCH 2017: HEYTHROP STELLA

CHAMPION WELSH FOXHOUND 2017: LLANWNNEN FARMERS DAFYDD

GREAT YORKSHIRE SHOW HARROGATE, NORTH YORKSHIRE Tuesday, July 10 to Thursday, July 12 Like Ardingly, the Yorkshire hound show is part of a splendid agricultural event, so the soundtrack of sheep-shearers mingles with the drumming of marching bands and the roar of tractor engines. Beagles and harriers are shown on Tuesday, with foxhounds, including Old English, on Wednesday. Even terriers take to the ring on Thursday, the day of the spectacular Parade of Hounds when several local packs canter around the main arena to the cheers of the crowds. This is the favorite show of the northern packs, from the Percy to the Bedale, Holcombe Harriers to Zetland, up against southern challengers such as the Vale of White Horse Hunt, and classes can be big: there were 73 entrants in Best Unentered Couple in 2017. Surrounded by the glorious Yorkshire moors and with more than 130,000 visitors attending over the three days, it’s a fantastic showcase of rural life. This summer is the 160th incarnation of the show, so it will be bigger than ever.

CHAMPION DOGHOUND 2017: GROVE & RUFFORD SAXON CHAMPION BITCH 2017: VWH FOOTLOOSE

CHAMPION ENGLISH FOXHOUND 2017: NORTH COTSWOLD DERVISH

FESTIVAL OF HUNTING PETERBOROUGH, CAMBRIDGESHIRE Wednesday, July 18, 2018

A proud Welsh wooly winner at the Builth Hound Show (left). Hound shows in the UK are gatherings for all kinds of activities, from inter-hunt relays to shopping and socializing.

The pinnacle of the hound show season is the Festival of Hunting, held at the East of England Showground at Peterborough, which features the prestigious Royal Foxhound Show. The different types of hound show classes are supplemented by inter-hunt relays, Horse of the Year Show qualifiers, terrier racing and plenty of vendors for shopping. Competing packs can be inspected at leisure along the lines of kennels that flank the covered foxhound enclosure where Modern English foxhounds are shown; Old English, harriers, beagles, SPRING 2018 | 21

WEST OF ENGLAND HOUND SHOW HONITON, DEVON Thursday, August 2 A relaxed affair on the edge of the Blackdown Hills, Honiton is also part of a larger agricultural show with myriad treats from camel racing to hurdle making, heavy horses to aerobatic displays. Little has changed since it was founded in 1890; it’s often an idyllic summer’s day, and even the heavy rain of 2017 failed to dampen spirits.

The hound side is notable for featuring England’s three staghound packs, the Devon & Somerset, Tiverton, and Quantocks, plus shaggy otterhounds and minkhounds. The latter often includes foxhounds that proved better suited to life on the riverbank; it is not unknown for an unentered hound to win at a foxhound show, then triumph later as an entered minkhound. In 2017, Molly Landau of the Taunton Vale won the inaugural Junior Handler award, in which hunters aged between 12 and 16 show a hound from their kennel and discuss it with the judges, an inspiring challenge for future huntsmen.

JIM MEADS

Beautiful winning hound in a specatacular setting at the Rydal Hound Show.

THE NORTH AMERICAN CONNECTION Dennis Foster, Marty Wood, Daphne Wood and others have judged in the United Kingdom. Here, ex-MFHA executive director Dennis Foster was honored for his work by the Countryside Alliance and MFHA (UK) at last year summer’s Peterborough Festival of Hunting. Foster was presented with a silver horn by Major Tim Easby (left), director of the MFHA-UK, and Lord Benjamin Mancroft, chairman of MFHA-UK and the Countryside Alliance (right).

22 | COVERTSIDE

bloodhounds and draghounds compete in outdoor rings. The enclosure is thronged by the greats of foxhunting, from houndbreeding doyen Martin Scott to chairman Sir Philip Naylor-Leyland and photographer Jim Meads, offering an unparalleled opportunity for hunting gossip. Regular guests sit in named seats, many of which have been held for years and are passed on only after death. With afternoon tea, Champagne, bowler hats and elegant frocks, not to mention the crème de la crème of hounds, standards are as high now as at any time in the show’s 130-year history.

MODERN ENGLISH CHAMPIONS 2017: NORTH COTSWOLD RALLYWOOD (DOG), VWH FOOTLOOSE (BITCH) OLD ENGLISH CHAMPIONS 2017: SIR WATKIN WILLIAMS WYNN’S CHAMPION (DOG), HURWORTH TENDRIL (BITCH)

FOXHOUND CHAMPIONS 2017: BEAUFORT RADAR (DOG), VWH FORTUNE (BITCH) MINKHOUND SUPREME CHAMPION 2017: PURE-BRED OTTERHOUND CULMSTOCK CAPTAIN STAGHOUND CHAMPION 2017: TIVERTON RUBIC

LOWTHER HOUND SHOW PENRITH, CUMBRIA Saturday, August 11 and Sunday, August 12 As the home of the Earls of Lonsdale, including the fifth “Yellow” Earl of sporting legend, picturesque ruined Lowther Castle is a fitting backdrop to the knowledgeable crowd keen to admire the rangy, lean hill hounds of the Scottish border packs.

A highlight of the Lowther Show, which includes Fell pony classes, carriage-driving

Seven to Savor VALE OF RYDAL SHEEPDOG TRIALS AND HOUND SHOW

trials, clay pigeon shooting, fishing and more, the hound show is split over two days.

Saturday is devoted to foxhounds, with Fell, hill, Welsh and studbook foxhounds (plus the Scottish championship following the demise of the Scottish hound show). Sunday the harehounds take to the ring, featuring beagle and harrier classes. Proceedings end with a singing competition, a cherished tradition.

AMBLESIDE, CUMBRIA Thursday, August 16 The last show of the season is something special, set in a bowl of the Lakeland hills with round rings arranged in a semi-circle.

It opens with the Coniston puppy show, with walkers showing their own puppies, and continues with beagles, Fell hounds, harriers and even terriers; there are no studbook foxhounds. A real Lakeland farmers’ show, it attracts a wise and convivial crowd to sheepdog trials, a working terrier show, gun dog demonstrations and hound trailing. The latter is a traditional Lake District sport that sees hounds race in a loop across the hills, each with a number painted on its side, and betting is encouraged. In the supreme championship,

CHAMPION STUDBOOK HOUND 2017: PERCY POSIE CHAMPION HILL HOUND 2017: COLLEGE VALLEY LAVENDER CHAMPION SCOTTISH HOUND 2017: DUKE OF BUCCLEUCH

beagles, Fell hounds, harriers and terriers are examined together by all the show’s judges. Rydal is a great chance for the smaller packs to shine, and a grand end to a summer of hound heaven.

SUPREME CHAMPION 2017: HARRIER VALE OF LUNE BARRY

A race for the biscuit at Great Yorkshire.

Fox Mat $24.99

% of Proceeds to MFHA Foundation

order online code: MFHA

The nation’s industry leader in stable flooring

Wine & Coast RIDING ADVENTURE

-NOW BOOKING 20185 day riding vacation in the beautiful Pacific northwest Ride in wine country, temperate rain forest, and on the beach!

Small personal groups of capable* riders *Ability

to canter required Find us on Facebook!

sales@therubberman.com

877.275.8253

.Wine Tasting .Fishing .Kayak Rides .Brewery Tours .Museum Trips

NON-RIDER PACKAGES AVAAILABLE - ASK ABOUT AVAILABLE HORSES

971-241-2684 • WillametteCoastRide.com SPRING 2018 | 23

Retracing Royal Footsteps

History and hunting collide in an epic journey.

BY DEIRDRE HANNA

French horn players in the Royal Courtyard of Apethorpe Palace. From left to right: The Debuche de Rully horn players; HRH Prince Georg of Saxe-Weimar, Joint Master; Baroness von Pfetten, Joint Master;

VICTOR YU

HE Baron von Pfetten MFH and amateur huntsman; His Reverence Stephen Lambert MFH; and Alastair Campbell MFH.

24 | COVERTSIDE

I

THE HISTORIC CONNECTIONS

The baron, with his detailed knowledge of English hunting history, noted two extraordinary coincidences. First, he saw that the fifth Duke of Rutland had sent two foxhounds to one of his French ancestors in 1817—exactly 200 years ago.

Second, he read about a late “Summer Progress” made by James I from Apethorpe Palace with his French hounds in 1617—exactly 400 years ago. With the coincidence of these dates: 1617, 1817, and now 2017, it seemed a must to bring French hounds to England in 2017 to retrace history with an “Autumn Progress.”

BRINGING THE FRENCH FOXHOUNDS TO ENGLAND

Two and a half couple French foxhounds were chosen to travel from the Pfetten Hunt kennels at the 17th-century Chateau de Selore in Burgundy to the Jacobean Palace at Apethorpe in England. Alastair Campbell, MFH and Joint Master with the baron explains: “The planning of such a journey of over 700 miles is complicated, for passports are required for each hound; they must have rabies shots three weeks before; a vet’s

Joint meet with the Ludlow.

ALASTAIR CAMPBELL

t was an extremely fortunate moment in foxhunting when Jean Christophe Iseux, His Excellency the Baron von Pfetten, MFH, senior Master and huntsman of his own pack of foxhounds in France, purchased Apethorpe Palace right in the middle of the old Royal Hunting Forest of Rockingham. In 2015, the Baron vowed to “reclaim its deserved place in British history,” according to an article in the Daily Mail. Built between 1470 and 1480, the palace was at one time a favorite home of James I, and he eventually took residence there. The palace, a quadrangle, includes three courtyards and 48 bedrooms. For this reason the king had a special roof–walk built when he could no longer ride, enabling him to watch hunting to the north, east, and south of the palace. When the baron moved in, he immediately set about entertaining adjacent hunts and guests from around the world.

From left to right: HRH Prince Georg of Saxe-Weimar (in tweed); Oliver Dale, MFH; and HE Baron von Pfetten, MFH.

inspection within five days of their travelling date; and they must be micro-chipped. Also, one person must travel with every five hounds.”

His Royal Highness Prince Georg von Sachsen–Weimar, Joint Master with the baron, brought the hounds over by himself, and he continues the story. “We left Selore at 11:00 a.m. and stopped once en route to the ferry. We didn’t feed the hounds on the road to avoid travel sickness. On this journey the hounds settled well and coped with the transit exceptionally well—arguably much better than myself! At Calais, before the Channel crossing by ferry, I did the scanning of the microchips, as I knew the hounds well and could handle them during the check–in process. Then we caught the 8:00 p.m. ferry.

We arrived at Apethorpe in the early hours of the morning!”

THE SAINT HUBERT HOLY MASS

Once the hounds were safely kenneled, arrangements were made to celebrate a Holy Mass in the Tudor chapel of the palace. The Mass was for Saint Hubert, the patron saint of hunting. The baron invited His Reverence Father Stephen Lambert to perform the Catholic Mass. Stephen was Master of both the Warwickshire and Heythrop Foxhounds and also former chairman of the Master of Foxhounds Association in Britain, so very well-suited for this role. The prayers were read by HRH Prince Joachim Napoleon Murat, committee member of the Pfetten Hunt. Royalty from many countries in Europe joined the English hunting men and women, who had all been asked to wear tweeds or hunting attire.

SPRING 2018 | 25

ALASTAIR CAMPBELL

Joint meet with the Brocklesby. In the center: Baroness von Pfetten; HRH Prince Georg of Saxe-Weimar; HE Baron von Pfetten MFH; and The Earl of Yarborough, MFH.

THE FRENCH MUSICIANS

Also traveling to England to take part in the Mass were eight musicians from Burgundy, a group called the Débuché de Rully.

Stationed outside the chapel, they joined the Mass at certain points in the service. Later, after mouth-watering brioche and French Champagne had been served to more than 150 guests, they continued to play in front of the palace until the last of the winter light had faded.

THE BLESSING OF THE HOUNDS

The service was followed by the Blessing of the Hounds, which took place in the Royal Courtyard. Here the French hounds were joined by one couple of English foxhounds—Rambler ’16 and Raven ’16, drafted from the Heythrop. They were to go back with the Pfetten hounds to France. The baron, who has been hunting his hounds for 27 years, was asked why he had brought over these particular hounds. He said he wished to bring a cross–section of ages, experiences, and breeding lines: Pfetten Farquhar ’10 and Pfetten Foxtrot ’10 for their steadiness and experience; Pfetten Ginger ’15 and Genereux ’15 for their drive and stamina; and Pfetten Gaston ’17 for his age, as he was still an unentered puppy. The chosen five are descended from Beaufort Daylight ’08, who was an exceptional road hound, and is herself descended from the French pack hunted

by James I at Apethorpe in 1617.

THE AUTUMN PROGRESS TRAVELS NORTH

For this part of the “progress” we look back 400 years, when James I progressed north from the palace to hunt. The baron, wishing to follow this extraordinary coincidence of dates, now planned to hunt with three English packs, by kind invitation of their Masters.

“I would like to say,” said the baron, “that these hunts were joint hunts in which my French hounds hunted along-

26 | COVERTSIDE

side those of our hosts, a first in the history of foxhunting.

On the first day, by kind invitation of Lady Sarah McCorquodale, MFH, all hounds mixed with the Belvoir pack perfectly.

Rambler, Farquhar, and Ginger were particularly noticed when crossing ploughed land under heavy wind. John Holliday hunted the hounds in an exceptionally relaxed way with a clear thread to his hounds that would have enchanted Ronnie Wallace. The Belvoir hounds have developed a remarkable intelligence as a result of this hunting style. The second hunting day, in breathtaking scenery, was with the Ludlow, by kind invitation of Oliver Dale, MFH. Gaston, the puppy, hunted very well for the first time and understood his job right away. He became a revelation that day. The last hunting day was with the Brocklesby, by kind invitation of the Earl of Yarborough, MFH, where the overall pack was notably very level together with neither any head nor any tail. This joint meet was particularly historical, as two of the oldest private packs of hounds from England and France hunted together for the first time.”

The baroness’s formidable energy, detailed forward planning, and graciousness received huge thanks from all of us who were there. All her talents, coupled with the fact that she is also an architect of international renown, will be of priceless assistance as she and the baron go forward together in redesigning the palace. It was a few weeks to be recorded in English hunting history, but it was not the end—merely the beginning.

At the finish of the “Autumn Progress,” plans were already underway to open an international hunting museum during the Summer of 2019. This will be in the White Hall of Apethorpe Palace, where King James and his courtiers used to gather before hunting. Naturally, visiting Masters from America will be most welcome to attend the opening ceremony.

Deirdre Hanna writes for for Hounds Magazine in the United Kingdom.

ASK THE LANDOWNER

Trust and Respect

Norfolk Hunt at the Trustees’ Powisset Farm, Dover, Mass.

The Trustees share Norfolk Hunt’s values. BY MARTHA DRUM

M

Covertside: What benefits do the Trustees receive from permitting the hunt to cross your land?

Covertside: What protections do you use (e.g., signed releases, insurance)?

Hayden: Participating riders Hayden: The Trustees are proud to welcome the Norfolk Hunt Club to hunt through our properties. Norfolk currently counts nine Trustees properties in its territory, which comprise 1,898 acres of open space and 40.5 miles of trails. We have a mutually beneficial relationship with Norfolk, as its members often support our efforts to protect and acquire new land.

The Trustees was formed in 1891, and the Norfolk Hunt Club was founded in 1895, so we’ve both been working to preserve and protect land for well over a century, and fully appreciate the importance of open space for passive recreational use.

sign waivers of liability. Prior to hunts, the Trustees and Norfolk post signage at entrances to our properties to alert hikers, bikers, and dog walkers so they are aware 50 horses and 20

RUTH BALTOPOULOS

ANY LANDOWNERS TODAY are not individuals, but institutions or organizations. Founded in Massachusetts in 1891, the Trustees is the nation’s first preservation and conservation organization. It is a nonprofit steward of 116 sites of distinctive historic and cultural value that welcome millions of guests each year.

We spoke with D.A. Hayden, general manager of Charles River Valley for the Trustees and a member of the Norfolk Hunt Club.

Covertside: What advice would you give to similar organizations considering hosting hunt club activities? What advice would you give to a hunt club in approaching a property owner to ask permission?

Hayden: Property owners need significant advance notice and assurance from the hunt

WE’VE BEEN WORKING TO PRESERVE AND PROTECT LAND FOR WELL OVER A CENTURY, AND FULLY APPRECIATE THE IMPORTANCE OF OPEN SPACE FOR PASSIVE RECREATIONAL USE.

to fields and impact on any livestock. Norfolk meets with us at the beginning of each year and sends us the fixture card, with notations as to when they expect to be on Trustees’ properties, several months in advance.

This allows us plenty of time to limb-up trees, check trail access, open gates, and move livestock if needed. The hunt is very courteous in thanking us in Master’s announcements both at the beginning and end of each hunt, and following up with handwritten notes when special efforts are made, like hosting stirrup cups at one of our farms.

Martha Drum is a contributing writer to Covertside.

hounds might be coming by at any moment! Sharing open space is important to us; signage reinforces this messaging.

of riders’ respect for the land.

It’s important that the Masters share appropriate etiquette with members to minimize damage

TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE TRUSTEES, VISIT THETRUSTEES.ORG.

SPRING 2018 | 27

BETTER HUNTING

Rebecca Barnes guiding the third field

DONALD V. WEST

at Tryon Hounds.

Unsung Heroes

I

Those hilltopper field masters may have the most difficult job of all. BY MARTHA DRUM

T TAKES A PATIENT temperament and keen knowledge of quarry and country to provide sport in the back of the field.

Green horses, green riders, young children, long-time members ready to slow down, those coming back from injuries—these assorted characters all look to the hilltopper field master to keep them safe and provide a good day’s sport. While not an easy task, leading the hilltoppers— whether a nonjumping second or a slower third flight—can be done with the right combination of patience, experience, and a cooperative horse. The leaders we spoke with appreciate their responsibility to introduce newcomers to our sport. They also enjoy the special rewards of following hounds at a slower pace.

In the first flight, the field 28 | COVERTSIDE

master can assume his or her followers possess a basic level of competence. But the leader further back needs to make quick assessments and adjustments.

Kaitlin Macias, who has taken the second field at Midland Fox Hounds (GA), suggests “eyes on the back of your head to look out for your field,” and Rebecca Barnes, third flight field master at Tryon Hounds (NC), agrees: “The key attribute a hilltopper field master must have is to be very attentive to the field; constantly checking back to make sure they are all doing well and having fun.”

At the same time, riders expect to hear and see hounds, too, adding to the field master’s responsibilities. Cathleen Springer of Smithtown Hunt (NY), who has served two decades as field master, explains, “The slower pace or

stopping to re-group necessitated by timid or less skilled riders can quickly result in loss of contact with hounds. The field master must then call upon skill in tracking and hearing the sounds of hounds and horn.” Elizabeth King, MFH, Farmington Hunt (VA), who has led hilltoppers three days a week for nearly ten years, says, “I rode behind [thenMaster] Gloria Fennell for years, bringing young horses along, and I can still hear her telling me, ‘Just wait, stay put a little longer, those voices might just start turning back to us,’ and lo and behold, we could hear the hounds better and better, and then the fox would run right by us!”

The field master’s horse must possess a calm, businesslike temperament. Springer lists the ideal attributes: “steady as a rock, brave as a lion, gentle as a lamb,

and able to stop on a dime.” The perfect mount is forward enough to lead through every situation, but quiet enough to set a calm example as the first flight gallops off or passes at speed in a tight spot. “The second or even third flight field master’s horse has the most mentally challenging job,” Macias says. “They have to be 100% on with watching the faster field gallop away, while keeping a more appropriate pace.”

King enjoys helping others appreciate the country, wildlife, and changing seasons. “Sometimes you’re a trail guide to the beautiful outdoors,” she says, “pointing out scat, where bucks have marked their territory on a sapling, how turkeys have been pecking around in the leaves.

There is just so much nature happening around us when we are out there.”

With so many responsibilities, why would a well-mounted hunt member volunteer for this less-than-glamorous role? “I think it is a privilege to show my field great sport, [so that they enjoy the day and don’t feel] overwhelmed,” explains Barnes.

Springer adds, “The rewards of leading third flight are to finish the day with smiling faces assuring me that, yes, they’ll come out again. It’s been my distinct pleasure to share the joys of hunting with more than one generation of a number of families. And so the tradition continues.”

Martha Drum is a contributing writer to Covertside.

Experienced Horse Folks – We Understand Your Needs.

SADDLERY • CLOTHING • GIFTS EVENTING - FOX HUNTING - PONY CLUB - SHOWING

Many leading Brand Name Products for Horse and Rider at Competitive Prices.

Call today for a private tour of “Horse Country” & our Walthour-Moss Foundation preserve of 4,000+ acres to ride and carriage drive!

FOR YOUR PETS: ALL NATURAL PET FOODS

Pet tags engraved while you wait.

Jo-an DeSell Owner/Broker

910.692.0770 | www.DeSellandCo.com

667 Zachary Taylor Hwy (Rt.522) Flint Hill, VA 22627 • 540-675-1650 Store Hours: Monday thru Saturday 10am - 5pm

For your online needs visit: www.horsenhound.com

Overnight accommodations for horse and owner provided by DeSell & Co • Limited opening • Book ahead

Fox Hunters for Sale Cathy Carr Taber

(229) 403-4554

Carrdian.com

SPRING 2018 | 29

FOXHUNTER’S LIBRARY

New and Noteworthy for Spring and Summer TRUE TO THE LINE: A HUNTING LIFE

By Adrian Dangar Published by Quiller Available from www.adriandangar.com

THE ONLY THING BETTER than going foxhunting is reading about it in a book whose author knows and understands the sport. In huntsman and writer Adrian Dangar, we have the perfect pilot, and the sketches by Daniel Crane, today’s answer to

IN SEARCH OF THE KERRY BEAGLE

By Stanislaus Lynch, edited by Noel Mullins Available at noelmullins.com

30 | COVERTSIDE

Alfred Munnings, add enormously to the memoir’s charm.

Dangar first took up the horn at the age of 24 with the Spooners and West Dartmoor in the southwest of England, where boulder-strewn ravines plunging off high moors “must surely qualify as the roughest country hunted from the back of a horse anywhere in Britain,” but which yielded strong foxes and thrilling rides. Ambition drew him north to the Sinnington in Yorkshire, “one of the best two day a week countries in England,” where his

STANISLAUS LYNCH (1907– 1983) was a huntsman, journalist, author, broadcaster, poet, and producer of Irish draft horses and Connemara ponies. His works have been translated into 10 languages in 16 countries.

This book was written by Lynch, but went unpublished after his death in 1983. While working on a feature article on Lynch, Mullins agreed to edit and publish the work. The book tells the story of Lynch’s travels from Dublin, through the Irish Midlands, to the hills of Kerry and Limerick in his quest to discover the origins of the Kerry beagle. The book sifts through historical and legendary accounts, blending them with Lynch’s own memories and observations, and features a foreword by Chris Ryan, Master of the Scarteen Hounds.

tenure was characterized by superb hunting across the lush vale and high moors. Proof of Dangar’s prowess came with his appointment as huntsman of the famous Quorn Hunt in Leicestershire, the first amateur to carry the horn there for 80 years. The glorious Shire country, with its old turf and lines of hedges, offered some memorable hunting. But, plagued by politics, urban sprawl, and anti-hunt saboteurs, it proved not to be a

SIX CENTURIES OF FOXHUNTING: AN ANNOTATED BIBLIOGRAPHY

By M. L. Biscotti, foreword by Norman Fine Published by Rowman and Littlefield

paradise and Dangar left it for a life of travel—running riding trips around the world with his company Wild & Exotic—and journalism.

MATTHEW L. “DUKE” BISCOTTI has undertaken the mammoth task of compiling, listing, and annotating 600 years of foxhunting literature. His extensive research included work in the National Sporting Library’s F. Ambrose Clark Rare Book Room, with a special focus on the materials in the John H. and Martha Daniels book collections.

The end result is a publication as useful as it is impressive.

The 500 pages of annotated listings could just as easily serve as an introduction to the leading lights of hunting literature, and expansive title and author indexes make this work an immediate go-to reference for anybody interested in country sport. The book’s foreword is penned by former Covertside editor Norman Fine. — John Connolly, George L. Ohrstrom, Jr. Head Librarian, National Sporting Library

An American adventure, judging the Western Hunt Challenge with Grosvenor Merle-Smith, is brilliantly told, from an averted barroom brawl to galloping flat out across Arizona. Dangar wonders if an injection of greyhound blood would help in catching coyotes, “the toughest quarry imaginable,” and would no doubt be delighted that Peter Wilson of the Grand Canyon is trying exactly that, to great effect.

Throughout the book, the joy of working hounds shines through strongest: the intricacies of the stud book, the pleasure of getting to know every individual hound, the “electrifying peal of music” at a find,

and the “growing euphoria” of watching a fine pack bring a chase to a successful conclusion with little or no interference from the huntsman.

The value of conservation; the “vigor and vitality of an ecosystem” within a wellmanaged covert; the importance of diplomacy in dealing with landowners, farmers, and shoot managers; myriad rural characters; the difficulties of operating under the English ban; and the continuing battle to preserve the sport: it is all here. For anyone in thrall to the “complexities of venery, bravery, and horsemanship,” I thoroughly recommend this book. —Octavia Pollock

BONNIE LINGERFELT

Fine Equestrian Properties & Country Homes

Tryon, North Carolina Home of the 2018 FEI World Equestrian Games at TIEC

TryonProperties.com 828-817-0166

Advantage Realty 177 N. Trade St. Tryon, NC 28782

OutbackTrading.com SPRING 2018 | 31

LAST RUN OF THE DAY Written and illustrated by Jeanne S. Trexler

HUNTING DOS & DON’TS for Pony Club

Foxhunting’s our sport, and we’ll all have more fun, if we each know beforehand what’s “being done.”

Let’s all be dressed in proper attire, So that our hunt field will be one to admire.

And girls­, hair nets please— your flowing tresses are not for hunting, but for party dresses.

Don’t arrive to hunt in an awful state, it’s not being done to get there late.

If you hack to the meet, remember the rule— allow time to be prompt, with your horse nice and cool.

Go speak to the Master, and boys doff your caps. Good manners are fun, so don’t let them lapse.

To warn those behind you, that your horse likes to kick, tie a red ribbon in his tail, it’ll do the trick.

Don’t sit there and chatter at covertside, or you won’t be welcome the next time they ride.

But hark to the music the good hounds make that you might learn quickly the course they will take.

Don’t dash by others at a fast going pace, This is a fox hunt, not a horse race.

Don’t speak to a hound if he passes close, ‘cause he’s working hard, with his sharp little nose.

When you come to a fence, I’m sure it’s not news, that the horse in front of you just might refuse.

So allow time for this, and for crying out loud, when you come to a fence­— oh, please don’t crowd!

Since you can’t ride or hunt without a good horse, you care for your mount, as a matter of course.

When the hunt is all over, you rest him awhile, and on your way home, you WALK THE LAST MILE.

Jeanne Trexler Donahue Shippen penned this wise publication of which about 300 to 500 copies were printed in 1959. In 2005, John Strassburger wrote in the Chronicle of the Horse that Shippen was district commissioner of the Redland Hunt Pony Club, between Baltimore and Washington, D.C. Redland members went on to start the Goshen Hounds. Shippen died in 2007, and recently her charming book reappeared on Facebook. Thanks to Melanie Kennedy for the scans.

32 | COVERTSIDE

l

a oc

l

legac

y

loudoun & be y on d

w e l c o m i n g y o u h o m e f or a l i f e t i m e Start your search at MiddleburgRealEstate.com MiddleburgRealEstate.com

MiddleburgRealEstate AtokaProperties

MiddleburgRealEstateAtokaProperties

MIDDLEBURG • 540-687-6321 | PURCELLVILLE • 540-338-7770 | LEESBURG • 703-777-1170 | ASHBURN • 703-436-0077

ON

LD

SO

G

IN

OM

SO

C

466 MONTANA HALL LN S, WHITE POST • $2,850,000 Spectacular farmland in the south part of Clarke Co in 1 parcel with a minimum of 200 acres, options up to 400. Options include 8,000+ sf main house (separate in-law quarters) renovated "summer kitchen", 2 story 4 bay garage, historic ice and spring houses, pond, gardens, outbuildings, rental houses, barns.

Amazing views, 1 hour to Dulles.

Anne McIntosh • (703) 509-4499 Maria Eldredge • (540) 454-3829

2334 MERRY CHASE LN, MARSHALL* • $2,600,000 Prime Atoka Road location, 155 rolling and mostly useable acres, beautiful setting, tree lined drive. Main house circa 1837, 4 bedrooms, 4 1/2 baths, 3 fireplaces. Improvements include 4 tenants houses, 3 barns, indoor and outdoor riding arenas. VOF Easement.

WILLISVILLE RD, BLUEMONT • Price Upon Request Enjoy the gorgeous views surrounding this custom 5,000+ sq ft home on 50 acres. Open floor plan with chef's kitchen, sunken living room, sunroom. First floor master suite. Heated pool and 2 car garage with 1 bedroom apartment above.

Peter Pejacsevich • (540) 270-3835 Scott Buzzelli • (540) 454-1399

Peter Pejacsevich • (540) 270-3835 Scott Buzzelli • (540) 454-1399

39984 BRADDOCK RD, ALDIE • $1,985,000 6,300+ s/f custom stone chateau. Gourmet kitchen with granite countertops and commercial appliances. Main level bedroom, au-pair suite/artist studio. Jetted over-sized bathtubs, vaulted/tray ceilings. 12 stall barn with wide center aisle and full 2nd floor.

8 fenced paddocks with waterers and run-in shed. Equestrian's dream!

Scott Buzzelli (540) 454-1399 Peter Pejacsevich (540) 270-3835

34380 BLOOMFIELD RD, BLUEMONT • $1,875,000 Gorgeous Colonial in the heart of Piedmont. Two spring fed ponds, mature trees, English gardens, mountain views. Large bright, open floor plan with gourmet kitchen, oak and heart pine floors, high ceilings, mahogany library, exposed brick fireplaces. Au-pair suite with sep entrance, pool, courtyard.

3318 BUST HEAD RD, THE PLAINS • $1,799,000 Located on 17 wooded private acres includes terrace and pavilion!

Stunning main entrance with large rooms and high ceilings.

Perfect for entertaining - gourmet kitchen including Vulcan range and hood, SubZero refrigerator/freezer and pizza oven. Lower level with large rec room including wet bar, study and full bath.

Two laundry rooms.

Peter Pejacsevich • (540) 270-3835 Scott Buzzelli • (540) 454-1399

Scott Buzzelli (540) 454-1399 Peter Pejacsevich (540) 270-3835

LD

SO

38138 FOREST MILLS RD, LEESBURG • $1,575,000 Historic estate on 47 acres. Large rooms open to a grand terrace and picturesque backyard. Two story guest home with wood burning stove and log cabin overlooking creek. 3 barns, 20 stalls, 5 paddocks and 2 run-in sheds complete this equine sanctuary.

6532 CRUMMEYS RUN LN, MIDDLEBURG • $1,500,000 Charming property on two lots with beautiful pond and in-ground swimming pool. Perfect setting and location. Spacious studio with kitchen bedroom and full bath. Ideal for entertaining. Main residence boasts 3 bedrooms with 3.5 bath, eat in kitchen, living room with wood burning fireplace, dining room. Mountain views.

22463 OATLANDS RD, ALDIE • $1,264,000 Fantastic opportunity. Rarely available large 88 acre parcel with most amazing western views. Zoned AR-2. Potential Easement Credit. 12 stall barn, tenant house and machine shop.

Scott Buzzelli • (540) 454-1399 Peter Pejacsevich • (540) 270-3835

Peter Pejacsevich (540) 270-3835 Scott Buzzelli (540) 454-1399

Peter Pejacsevich (540) 270-3835 Scott Buzzelli (540) 454-1399 *Represented the buyers