Covertside Winter 2013

ANNUAL GIFT GUIDE • SPECIAL YOUTH SECTION • SAFETY FIRST

THE MAGAZINE OF MOUNTED

WINTER 2013 • $5.00

sJ o h n C o l e s 2 013 s spriNg hiLL

cANTerbury

Comprised of 4 farms this magnificent 2426 acre horse property consist of 3 Main homes, 11 tenant houses, 8 horse barns with 174 stalls including a 32 stall foaling barn, 72 gently rolling fields & paddocks with miles of white board fencing, interior private roads, 11 Run-in Sheds, beautiful lake and bold stream. $18,940,000

Exquisite details throughout this incredible 12 bedroom Georgian Revival manor home built in 1936. Situated on over 191 acres. This lovely home boasts a Reception Hall and a white Carrara marble Flying Staircase accessing 3 levels. Over 1/2 mile of Rappahannock River frontage, spectacular views, springs, ponds and rolling pasture

meADowgrove

$9,750,000

AshLeigh

whiTe rock

c.1845 listed on National Register of Historic Places. Surrounded by beautiful gardens on 98 acres sGrand entrance s Pool with 2 Bedroom Pool Houses 2 Bedroom Guest Cottage s 10 stall, 4 stall, and 3 stall barn with appropriate tack rooms, several run in sheds and a large machine shed. Attached to the10 stall barn are two separate living quarters for farm managers.Magnificent views $2,900,000

Overlooking a serene pond, this magnificent European style manor home is on 115 acres surrounded by thousands of protected acres and the Bull Run Mountains. Custom built in 2001 using Olde World craftsmanship and materials this stunning home offers five bedrooms, 6 baths, 10’ ceilings, wide plank flooring, pool and geothermal heating and cooling. $2,750,000

foxLeigh

mArLeA

The 26 acre estate sits in magnificent horse country approx. one mile west of Middleburg just off the much desired Zulla Road, this estate includes the 1½ story white brick manor home w/2 car attached garage, 4 car detached garage, heated pool, 3 stall barn with run-in shed, 2 large paddocks and offers tremendous ride out potential. $2,450,000

90 acres w/approx. 45 fenced acres and 45 acres in woods with trails. 3 bedroom manor home, Indoor and Outdoor Arenas ,2 barns open into the indoor arena, Main barn has 20 stalls, Show Barn- 5 oversized stalls, 3 tack rooms, office, 2 wash stalls, 2 bathrooms, laundry room, 14 paddocks. Manager’s cottage. 2 add’l DUR’s and is in land use. $1,900,000

Extraordinary estate on over 180 acres sIdeal for horses s 7 Bedrooms sNew Gourmet State of the Art Kitchen & Baths s gorgeous full wall windows, overlooking 10 acre lake s10 stall stable sPaddocks with run-in sheds sPool and poolhouse with fireplace, spa and new tennis courts. $3,900,000

fox DeN

Private 65 Acre Estate near historic Middleburg. 3 porches add to the charm of this restored Farm House, c.1830 w/ pool and shared pond. Other features include 4 stall barn w/ guest suite, 4 bay open equipment barn and 2 bay garage. Beautiful land w/ views, creek, meadows and board fenced pastures w/ spring fed waterers. VOF and PEC Easements do allow for two additional dwellings. $2,600,000

fox vALLey

Historic circa 1845 home on 32 acres in Orange County Hunt s1st floor Master sDen sDramatic Grand Salon sEnglish Kitchen slarge Dining Rooms Billiard Room sSmall 2nd Kitchen/Bar leads to Patio, Pool & charming Guest Cottage s7 Stall barn adjoins 3 bedroom, 2 bath Managers house. $1,650,000

LAND

TAkAro fArm

iNgLesiDe

LOGANS MILL - Extraordinary, private estate area on 179+ acres with frontage on Little River, Open Space Easement, rolling fields with mature hardwood forest, Orange County Hunt Territory, great ride out, very private, less than 10 minutes from Middleburg, views in all directions. $3,500,000

Expanded through the years, Takaro has wonderful entertaining areas both inside and out, many overlooking the pool.

2 separate suites are wonderful for guests or home office. A dramatic main level apt. is attached to the handsome 7 stall barn. This 14.73 acre property offers a carriage barn, air conditioned dog house, paddocks and pond. $1,550,000

POTTS MILL - on 137+ 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, views in all directions. $2,800,000

The 83.55 Acre estate offers a stately Victorian Manor Home of approx. 3800 sq. ft., sited beautifully to offer privacy and views. Comprised of two parcels in VOF Easement, each parcel is allowed 1 dwelling with dependencies and farm improvements.This property is a part of the adjacent 865 Acres of Spring Hill Farm. $1,335,000

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

Page 12

FOXHUNTING’S FUTURE DEPENDS ON YOUNG PEOPLE PARTICIPATING. PHOTO BY SIVE DOYLE

WINTER 2013 FULL CRY

12

26

34

DEPARTMENTS

SPECIAL SECTION: YOUNG ENTRY The Fairly Hunted Award winners; junior OTTB essay contest winner; foxhunting schools and foxhunting families

BY LAURA MULLANE, KATE LINER AND EPP WILSON, MFH

FROM THE PRESIDENT

4

FROM THE PUBLISHER

48

LAST RUN OF THE DAY

Our annual list of great holiday presents for kids and adults.

PRODUCED BY CHASING A FOX IN A LITTLE BLACK DRESS

8

MFHA NEWS LEGISLATION Covertside’s legislative outlook for 2014

BY MARCIA BRODY

10

Hunting in New Zealand requires nerves of steel and a really good horse.

BY BRIAN MUNN

38

GONE AWAY Covertside and MFHA honor those we’ve lost in the past year.

ABOUT HOUNDS That’s entertainment!

BY ANDREW BARCLAY

40

THE MEET 6

ANNUAL GIFT GUIDE 2013

FLYING THE WIRE

2

GOING HOME

ABOUT HORSES A Derby winner’s foxhunting siblings

BY GLENYE CAIN OAKFORD

42

PRACTICAL FOXHUNTER Safety tools for the 21st century foxhunter

BY SUSAN HOFFMAN

44

CINEMA A new documentary honors Mrs. Nancy Hannum.

BY DENNIS FOSTER

46

FLASK Tasty flask fillers to beat the winter chill.

ON OUR COVER: Mr. Stewart’s Cheshire Foxhounds members Maggie Buchanan , 9, and Jerry Hoover brave a snowstorm last December. PHOTO BY JIM GRAHAM/JIMGRAHAMPHOTOGRAPY.COM VOLUME 4, NUMBER 4 WINTER 2013 | 1

from the president

Busy Times

by Ed Kelly, MFH

I

hope you’ve had a good season so far. We had a productive board meeting recently and the Masters of Foxhounds Association has enacted some exciting initiatives: A. State Brochures - We’ve created a draft foxhunting brochure that can be developed for your state. It includes a map of hunt locations, local foxhunting history, as well as foxhunting’s local economic impact. The printing and distribution costs would be paid by the hunts in that state. It can be used to build interest in our sport as well as inform legislators.

MASTERS OF FOXHOUNDS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA www.mfha.com

OFFICERS Edward Kelly, MFH • President Dr. John R. van Nagell, MFH • First Vice-President Patrick A. Leahy, MFH • Second Vice-President Rene Latiolais, MFH • Secretary-Treasurer Lt. Col. Dennis J. Foster, ex-MFH • Executive Director

MFHA FOUNDATION Edward Kelly, MFH • Chairman PO Box 363, Millwood, VA 22646 (540) 955-5680

B. Coloring Book and Kids’ Guide to Foxhunting – We have created a fabulous

2 | Covertside

Bill Atherton

coloring book for four to seven year olds and an introduction to foxhunting for eight to ten year olds. It is available for everyone’s use. The price is modest. We hope that you will distribute both widely to pony club members, 4H club members, and unaffiliated youngsters.

C. Fairly Hunted Award – We had outstanding interest in our Fairly Hunted Award last year and we are reminding all hunts that a youngster need only attend five hunts to qualify for the Fairly Hunted Award. It includes a certificate, a full one-year subscription to Covertside and a recognition pin. Last year’s award winners are included in this issue.

At each annual meeting in January all new Masters are invited to lunch with the board.

This year, immediately following lunch, we will offer a new Masters’ seminar covering the responsibilities of their role. We hope all new masters will have the opportunity to come to New York attend the luncheon and seminar and participate in the annual meeting.

Several years ago we cooperated with the University of Maryland to prepare an economic study of the impact foxhunting has on our communities. It was extraordinarily enlightening to realize the multitude of community interests and economic benefits communities gain from foxhunting members.

Foxhunters are highly educated, communityminded individuals and they generate very positive economic input in the community.

We are considering updating this survey this coming year.

HUNT STAFF BENEFIT FOUNDATION Nancy Stahl, MFH • Chairman PO Box 363, Millwood, VA 22646 (540) 955-5680

COVERTSIDE EDITORIAL BOARD

We will be kicking off the active solicitation for our Masters of Foxhounds Legacy Fund shortly. We have 100 percent of our MFHA board contributing and hope you will participate to ensure there are funds available in future years for MFHA’s valuable work.

At a recent meeting of the International Union of Hunting with Hounds in New Zealand, it was apparent that the nations are feeling the pressure of animal rights movements to eliminate or limit hunting with hounds. It is a worldwide philosophical disconnect between the urban culture and the country lifestyle which we must endeavor to correct. Field sports are part of our nation’s tradition since its inception and it is our responsibility to ensure it continues.

This is the last issue of Covertside for which I will have the privilege of writing this column, I wish to thank you for all of the support you have given our organization the last three years.

Happy hunting,

Ed Kelly, MFH MFHA President

Emily Esterson • Editor-in-Chief Dennis J. Foster • ex-MFH Edward Kelly • MFH Dr. John R. van Nagell• MFH

DIRECTORS Canada • Laurel Byrne, MFH Carolinas • Linda Knox McLean, MFH Central • Joseph C. Kent, MFH Great Plains • Thomas Ghrist Jr., MFH Maryland-Delaware • Sheila Brown, MFH Midsouth • Dinwiddie Lampton III, MFH Midwest •Keith Gray, MFH New England • Vernon Studer, MFH Interim New York-New Jersey • Marion Thorne, MFH Northern Virginia-West Virginia • A.A. Zimmerman, MFH Pacific • Paul McEnroe, MFH Pennsylvania • Russell B. Jones, Jr., MFH Rocky Mountain • Paul T. Delaney, MFH Southern • Sally Rasmussen Virginia • Bob Ferrer, MFH Western • John P. Dorrier Jr., MFH At Large • Mrs. C. Martin Wood, III, MFH At Large • Mason H. Lampton, MFH At Large • Dr. G. Marvin Beeman, MFH COVERTSIDE (ISSN 1547-4216) is published quarterly (February, June, 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

Soar

Sore

Ask your equine veterinarian how competition can impact your horse’s joint health.

She’ll probably tell you about Legend® (hyaluronate sodium) Injectable Solution for the treatment of equine non-infectious synovitis.

CAUTION: Federal law restricts this product to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian.

WARNINGS: For use in horses only. Do not use in horses intended for human consumption.

E121239

FROM THE PUBLISHER

WINTER 2013

Call to Action

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/PUBLISHER EMILY ESTERSON publisher@covertside.net 505-553-2671

I

ART DIRECTOR GLENNA STOCKS production@covertside.net

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT EDITOR KATY CARTER katy@covertside.net

JOANN DELANEY

was talking with MFHA President Ed Kelly last summer when the conversation turned to kids. The question was how to get them more involved, more engaged, in this era of computers and phones and activities deemed safer than riding and foxhunting. We conceived this idea of a youth focused issue of Covertside.

Although I was an urban child, I spent my summers at a wonderful camp in Vermont where we tooled around on ponies, bareback, with only a halter and lead rope.

We routinely galloped up Blueberry Hill, where I did, indeed, find many thrills of the equestrian variety. We jumped the logs fallen across the road, pretended we were circus riders, cowboys, racetrack jockeys.

Mostly we learned to stay on, to fall off with grace and giggles, and to be fearless. I would not have won any equitation classes, but I could stick to a fractious pony named Doodles that no one else would ride.

I don’t know if the kids at that camp are allowed to do that today. I’m afraid to find out, because it would sadden me to learn that a generation of mostly city-raised kids was not having that same kind of experience.

Hunts across North America have to work extra hard to attract children these days. It’s not enough to hope that mom and dad hunt and the kids may like to try it (see our story about the Doziers, page 20); or that schools with equestrian programs might introduce kids to the sport (page 12).

Each hunt has to actively go forward and recruit kids. We urge you to take a look at the barriers to foxhunting for young people,

and try to work around them. Relax your clothing standards (get them hooked first, then ask them to dress the part), or tap youth members who might have outgrown their clothes. Find and train kid-friendly field hunters so you have horses/ponies for them to ride if they want to try it. Visit your local 4H or Girl Scout troop. Invite them to a hunt or to the kennels for a badge day.

Remember, this generation will be the ones who preserve foxhunting for the future. Invite them into the fold, before it’s too late.

Kick on!

Emily Esterson Editor-in-Chief/Publisher

ACCOLADES Without doubt Andrew Barclay’s article “Young Entry” in the fall edition was the best short explanation I’ve ever read concerning the importance, fascination and pitfalls of cub hunting.

It is “must” reading for all foxhunters whether they are staff or field members.

Andrew is such a wise, experienced, articulate voice of foxhunting. What a blessing that he shares his vast knowledge with foxhunters through the vehicle of Covertside and the MFHA’s Professional Development Program. —Daphne Flowers Wood, Jt MFH, Live Oak Hounds 4 | COVERTSIDE

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS AMY ENGLE MARCIA BRODY GLENYE CAIN OAKFORD SUSAN HOFFMAN

ADVERTISING AND MARKETING Sales Manager CHERYL MICROUTSICOS sales@covertside.net 434-664-7057 Event and Expo Sales HOPE LYNNE GRAVES events@covertside.net Pennsylvania and Northeast KATHY DRESS kdress@ptd.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 Fax: 505-873-0091 Web Address: www.ecovertside.net www.mfha.com

Living In Virginia’s Hunt Country

Woodlynne Farm: 110 Acre Orange County horse farm with an architecturally distinguished, renovated and expanded c. 1870 home. The home features 4 zone HVAC, mahogany doors w/bespoke hardware, large open country kitchen with custom cabinets, commercial grade range, cedar closets, multiple porches and patios, salt water gunnite pool, 8 stall barn, with 1 foaling stall and sprinkler system. Multiple board fenced paddocks, 120' x 250' riding ring, large hay barn with large 800 +/- Ft2 office. Completely private. Less than ½ hour from Bull Run, Casanova Hunts. $2,200,000

Locust Hill: Built in 1826, "Locust Hill" is a 3 bay Flemish bond brick house. Unique oversized tripartite windows, high ceilings, and gracious central hall with Federal style stairway with mahogany handrail all make for distinguished and light filled interiors. Tucked more than three-quarters of a mile from the road on 323 acres of improved pastureland studded with small woodlots. Spectacular Blue Ridge views.

Less than 15 minutes from the VA Horse Center and the Rockbridge Hunt. $2,375,000

Dunn Hill Farm: Beautifully restored historic c. 1860 house on 139 acres of rolling improved pastureland, with large beautiful guest house constructed from reclaimed materials. Features include a custom mural

by Michael Brown and double staircase. The property contains a large spring fed pond and pool. There are three bedrooms and two baths in the main house and three bedrooms, two baths and a full kitchen featuring custom kitchen cabinets made from reclaimed heart pine in the guest house. Can be purchased with less acreage.$895,000

Heah Ton Cottage: Architecturally distinguished, exceptionally private 3224 sq. ft. Chalet style home with high ceilings, great room with built-in bookcases, large fireplace and reclaimed beams, a gracious master suite with fireplace, large bluestone patio, library, and a large gourmet kitchen.

All on 29+/- private acres of well managed improved, fenced pasture with a large barn and stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Less than 15 minutes from the VA Horse Center and the Rockbridge Hunt. $775,000

Dogwood Ridge: Stately 4 bedroom 4 bath brick home with high ceilings and spectacular Blue Ridge views. Fireplaces in the living and family rooms. Formal dining room and a gourmet kitchen with large island and wood floors from Mountain Lumber. Custom built 1,000 bottle wine cellar, workshop and family/rec room in basement, attached in-law apartment with separate entrance. Large patio with brick grill and arbor along with a large in-ground pool make this the prefect house for entertaining. Exceptionally private 5 acre lot minutes from the town of Madison. $699,900

Le Berceau: This exceptionally private 22 acre property is almost completely encircled by a 30-foot-wide stream. The 2,802 Ft2 custom built French Country style home features expanses of white marble flooring, 18th century Portuguese kitchen tiles, custom decorative moldings, antique wall sconces, and library with custom bookcases. The post and beam barn offers unlimited possibilities with two full baths, an office and loft bedroom. In the Bull Run Hunt $749,000

Contact Don Skelly at (540)406-1370 dskelly@farmandestate.net

PIEDMONT OFFICE 132A East Main Street, Orange, VA 22960 (540) 672-3903 Fax: (540) 672-3906 www.farmandestate.net

MFHA NEWS  IUHH MEETS IN AUCKLAND In August, New Zealand hosted

the MFHA has created two new

review and an order form to re-

volved in all aspects of hunting. Ex-

publications. “My First Foxhunt”

quest additional copies for their

pert speakers will be entertaining

the annual meeting of the Inter-

is a coloring book available to

junior members.

and informative. There will also be

national Union of Hunting with

purchase in the MFHA online store.

Hounds. The principle purpose

This is a great way for youngsters

 STAFF SEMINAR

and how this quarry has changed

was for representatives from

to learn about what happens at a

hunting in North America.

countries where the sport of hunt-

foxhunt. Visit the MFHA Facebook

RETURNS TO LEXINGTON The popular Biennial Staff Seminar

ing with hounds exists, to learn

page each month for a “page-a-

(open to all MFHA members)

 HORN BLOWING CHAMPION-

from each other and support each

month” free download.

returns to the Griffin Gate Marriott

a short presentation on the coyote

in Lexington, Kentucky, April 12 and

SHIP MOVED TO VA. In October, the Board of Directors

ing our sport for the enjoyment

Guide to Foxhunting,” details what

13. Activities include the Saturday

voted to move the MFHA Interna-

of future generations. There

young people need to know about

afternoon Masters’ Seminar which

tional (US & Canada) Horn Blowing

were delegations from Australia,

the sport in order to participate.

will address the MFHA Professional

Championship from the Pennsyl-

Development Program, fundrais-

vania National Horse Show to the

ing, marketing and PR in the Viral

Virginia Hound Show. The Virginia

and written submissions from

Age, hound nutrition, Masters’

Hound Show is well attended and

Belgium and France. The meeting

duties and many more topics. Staff

has a large horn blowing com-

Seminar subjects this year will be:

petition. The winner will be the

Tips for Riding Across Country;

national champion plus the Virginia

The Field Master, protocol, eti-

Hound Show champion. The new

quette, attire and safety; Reading

championship rules will allow

and enjoying a pack of hounds,

any MFHA member hunt staff to

what to look for and how to judge

compete regardless of if they won

 MFHA FOCUSES ON KIDS

a pack of hounds, how to get more

another hound show competition.

In a continuing effort to attract

enjoyment from watching hounds;

Visit mfha.com for information on

and how to get children more in-

the rules and prizes.

other in protecting and develop-

Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and the US

was chaired by Andrew Morison, president of the NZ Hunting Association. For more details, see the November edition of Ecovertside.net.

young people to foxhunting,

6 | COVERTSIDE

The second publication, “A Kids’

Each hunt will receive copies of these two publications for

A Kids’ Guide to

FOXHUNTING MFHA FoundAtion

Setting the

Standard

Velvet H2000 Helmet

BY APPOINTMENT TO HER MAJESTY THE QUEEN PROTECTIVE HEADWEAR MANUFACTURERS WREXHAM

Kitemarked to AS015 and PAS015 P BSEN1384

Certified by SEI to ASTM F1163

www.charlesowen.com

issues

Hunting Acts and Getting Back on Track

Covertside’s legislative outlook for winter 2013-14.

By Marcia Brody

T

he federal government was a bit preoccupied this fall, dealing with Syria and chemical warfare in the international focus, debt ceiling and government shutdowns.

The Recreational Fishing and Hunting Heritage and Opportunities Act (HR 1825) is labeled by the US Sportsmen’s Alliance as “the most significant legislation protecting sportsmen’s access in 16 years.” The bill mandates that US Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management lands be held open to fishing, hunting and recreational shooting unless specifically closed or restricted by the head of the agency for purposes specifically outlined in the bill. Introduced

8 | Covertside

by Rep. Dan Benishek (R-MI), the bill is currently supported by 107 cosponsors (105 Republicans and two Democrats) and was passed by the House Committee on Natural Resources by a vote of 28-15 in June. At the time of this writing, it is pending before the Subcommittee on Conservation, Energy and Forestry of the House Committee on Agriculture. Its companion bill, S 170, introduced

by Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) and 12 cosponsors, is pending before the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources in the Senate.

The legislation specifically defines hunting to include the pursuit or attempt to pursue wildlife, as well as the training of hunting dogs, including field trials. Although this

bill is a long way from enactment into law, it provides a positive vehicle through which prohunting constituents may contact their legislators — either to thank them for cosponsoring, or to invite them to join the list of supporters.

The status of this legislation may be tracked easily on Govtrack.us.

Ironically, had this legislation been enacted prior to the shutdown, lands would still have been closed for hunting access during the period of the federal stalemate.

At the state level, Michigan’s Governor Rick Snyder signed legislation into law that grants the Michigan Natural Resources Committee the authority to designate animals as game species, removing that authority from

the state legislature. According to proponents, “Senate Bill 288 in effect removes the threat of referendum from game species designations and allows science and not anti-hunting politics to be used when making game species decisions.”

On the regulatory front, in September the US Department of Agriculture expanded application of the Animal Welfare Act to dog breeders who maintain four or more breeding females, and sell at least one dog “sight unseen.” The regulations still preserve an exemption for breeders of working dogs, as well as those sold in brickand-mortar stores. Hunting kennels would not fall under the inspection requirements as they are currently written, based upon the working dog exemption as well as upon the fact that foxhounds are not sold. State and local regulation of breeders and kennels offers anti-hunting interests one of the smoothest paths to disrupt our sport.

Foxhunting enthusiasts must be vigilant, analyzing the details of any new regulatory or legislative proposals, to ensure that they will not impose excessive burdens on foxhunting kennels.

Case Dismissed

Animal rights was dealt another blow in the courtroom this year.

Activists who sued to overturn the Animal Enterprise Terrorism Act (AETA), a federal law enacted in 2006 to protect animal enterprises from the illegal acts of animal rights activists, were set back when their lawsuit was dismissed by US District Court Judge Joseph L. Tauro. Activists sued on the grounds that the AETA infringed upon their First Amendment rights, restricting their ability to protest legally,

but the court dismissed their argument. The activists have promised to pursue an appeal.

Advice for hunters

The US Sportsmen’s Alliance offers some excellent advice for sportsmen and sportswomen confronted by hunter harassment. They remind us that it is illegal to harass hunters in all 50 states. Here are some of their recommendations: • Report the incident to authorities as soon as possible.

• Have an accurate description of the protesters, as well as a license plate number and vehicle information, if possible.

• Be prepared to file harassment charges against the perpetrators.

They also remind hunters that you may confront harass-

ment in everyday life. If you find yourself on the defensive, be courteous. Share information about the positive effects that the foxhunting community has on conservation, rural preservation, and preserving tradition. You may not change anyone’s mind, but you may give them pause for reconsideration of their views.

Foxhunters are encouraged to use this lull in animal legislation to to reach out to their local and state elected officials. Become acquainted with them as members of the community — invite them to an opening hunt or the Blessing of the Hounds. Let them share the pageantry of our sport and become part of our community.

Marcia Brody lives in Maryland and is Covertside’s legislative and political affairs correspondent.

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winter 2013 | 9

GONE AWAY

VANNA G. HUSBAND 1956-2013

MAURICE P. CORRIGAN 1926-2013

VANNA G. HUSBAND began riding to hounds at the age of eight.

Her love for the sport of foxhunting carried her intense love for all things horse and hound throughout her life. She received her colors from Mooreland Hunt Club in 1972 and became Master of Mell’s Fox Hounds in 1995. She retained her mastership until her death on January 4, 2013.

Born in Ozark, Al., she earned her undergraduate and graduate degrees from Stetson University and went on to teach elementary school in Huntsville in addition to holding an artistic career as a professional letterer and book designer.

Known for her kind, gentle heart, grace, and patience, Vanna is survived by her husband, Floyd Husband, her son Kyle Husband, and her mother, Betty Grisham.

THE SECOND OF NINE CHILDREN born to Nicholas and Mary Corrigan, born in Dublin, Ireland, Maurice P. Corrigan lived the American dream. He earned his undergraduate degree from University College of Dublin before immigrating to the United States and becoming one of the first Irishmen to earn an MBA from Harvard Business School. He had a long and distinguished professional career in international business and was also a tenured professor at Teikyo Post University. A steadfast, strong man who deeply loved his family, Maurice was a tremendous athlete, exceeding his peers’ abilities in rugby and rowing, and later in life, in the hunt field.

He served as MFH to Fairfield County Hounds from 1989-1992 and was also the last Master of the Fairfield County Beagles. A gracious and generous man, Maurice loved his family, friends, and fellow foxhunters.

He is survived by his four children: Mark Corrigan, MD, Corinne Daniels, Durelle Green, Stephen Corrigan, and ten grandchildren, in addition to siblings Gerald, Paul and Margaret. Ar dheis dé go raibh a anam dílis.

Mell’s Fox Hounds

JOHN R. CULBREATH 1926-2013 Two Rivers Hunt

MASTER OF TWO RIVERS HUNT (now South Creek Foxhounds) for fourteen years, John R. Culbreath passed away at his home in Monticello, Fla., on June 25, 2013. A proud fourth-generation Floridian, John enlisted in the US Army Air Corps and served as a flight engineer in the Pacific theater of operation during World War II. After graduating from the University of Georgia in 1949, he began a business career, first with Firestone Tire and Rubber Company before entering into the livestock industry, where he built a large cattle operation. He became active in community and livestock industry affairs and was named Outstanding Young Farmer of the Year by the Florida Junior Chamber of Commerce. John was elected to the Florida House of Representatives in 1967, where he served for twelve years before becoming a lobbyist.

John was the essence of a true gentleman, and those who knew him will hold fond memories of a brilliant man with a kind spirit and wonderful wit who loved his family, horses, hunting, and college football. He is survived by his wife of over sixty years, Barbara, and his daughters Sherry and Candi, as well as two grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

10 | COVERTSIDE

Fairfield County Hounds

JUDITH F. THIEL 1939-2013 Camden Hunt

JUDITH FIRESTONE THIEL passed away August 2, 2013, in Camden, S.C. Born in Memphis, Tenn., Judy was a lifelong horsewoman who not only competed at major national horse shows, but was also an enthusiastic foxhunter who served as Master of the Camden Hunt for 28 years. Camden Hunt bestowed the distinction of Lifetime Honorary Master in honor of her years of dedication to the pack.

The wife of steeplechase horseman Dale Thiel and mother of National Steeplechase Association board member Laura Thiel Shull, Judy was a longtime supporter of Kershaw County Humane Society and a benevolent benefactor of the Walter M. Crowe Animal Shelter, both in Camden. Judy carried herself with kindness, grace and class and will be missed by all who knew her.

GEORGE CHASE 1926-2013 Shakerag Hounds

EQUESTRIAN SPORT lost a grand supporter in George Chase, MFH, of Shakerag Hounds and co-founder of the Atlanta Steeplechase, on September 16, 2013 in Gordonsville, Va. A graduate of Columbia University, George grew up riding with his family in Connecticut. After relocating to Atlanta, he and his family followed the hounds of Shakerag and built their Chase-AWay Farm, which would become home to point-to-point races and other sporting and social events. In 1966, George joined forces with fellow Shakerag member John Wyatt to develop what became the Atlanta Steeplechase, an annual National Steeplechase Association sanctioned race meet. He served on the Board of Stewards and remained an integral part of the organizational team as the meet grew in size and popularity. He also owned champion steeplechase horse Census, winner of the 1986 Breeders’ Cup Steeplechase, and served on the boards of the United States Equestrian Team, the American Horse Shows Association, and the National Steeplechase Association.

George is survived by his wife of 58 years, Jan Perdue Chase; sons George Edmund Chase Jr. and Paul Jerome Chase, both of Atlanta; one daughter, Janet Chase Pendergrast of Gordonsville, Va; one brother, Peter Chase of Vero Beach, Fla.; and six grandchildren.

CHARLES W. MCLAUGHLIN, 1939-2013 Long Run Hounds

CHARLES W. MCLAUGHLIN, Joint MFH of Long Run Hounds, passed away peacefully with his family at his side on Friday, September 6, 2013. Born in Louisville, KY, he graduated from the University of Kentucky with a degree in civil engineering before serving in the United States Air Force at Randolph Air Base (TX) during Vietnam.

While his professional career was spent with the Kentucky Department of Transportation, Charlie’s true passion remained hunting. He served as Joint Master of the Long Run Hounds for 20 years and as its huntsman for fourteen, always greeting members and visitors with kind words and a welcoming smile.

Charlie is survived by his wife of 24 years, Sally Cronan McLaughlin; and his two favorite children, Michael McLaughlin (Hope) of Louisville, Ky, and Victoria Smith (Brad) of Indianapolis, Ind.; and four grandchildren, Alex McLaughlin, Zoë McLaughlin, Avery Smith, and Ian Smith.

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Young Entry

A special focus on youth in foxhunting.

ULATIONS CONGRAT to all the

NTED FAIRLY HU ECIPIENTS AWARD R r photos Share you ted #fairlyhun

SIVE DOYLE

AND THE AWARD GOES TO...

The following are the recipients of the MFHA’s Fairly Hunted award as of October 1, 2013

MISS JORDAN ADAMS...........................Bedford County Hunt OLIVIA ADAMS ..........................................New Market - Middletown Valley Hounds LILY ADAMS.................................................New Market - Middletown Valley Hounds BEVERLY ALCOCK ...................................Piedmont Fox Hounds NANCY ALCOCK.......................................Piedmont Fox Hounds HAYLEY ALCOCK .....................................Piedmont Fox Hounds MISS SHEA ANDERSON ........................Arapahoe Hunt

12 | COVERTSIDE

MAGGIE BATTON......................................Green Spring Valley Hounds KEELY BECHTOL.......................................Iroquois Hunt SOPHIE BELCHER ....................................Princess Anne Hunt MISS EMMA BELLET................................Potomac Hunt MS. OLIVIA BERRIER ..............................Tennessee Valley Hunt CLAIRE BEVER ..........................................Los Altos Hounds MISS JULIA A. BLACKBURN ...............Deep Run Hunt CORBIN BLUMBERG ...............................Potomac Hunt MISS LORNA BOHNENSTIEHL...........Arapahoe Hunt MASTER KRIS BOHNENSTIEHL ........Arapahoe Hunt SOPHIE BONENCLARK .........................Misty Morning Hounds AVA BRENENGEN.....................................New Market - Middletown Valley Hounds TIM BRICKEN ..............................................Green Spring Valley Hounds MISS DELANEY BROOKS .....................Potomac Hunt CONTINUED ON PAGE 14

PENNSYLVANIA’S FAMED HUNT COUNTRY

OLD PICKERING HUNT

Fabulous restored c. 1800 barn/residence on 63 acres. 1/4 mile driveway. Phenomenal private views overlooking pool, par 3 golf hole, 1 acre pond. Area actively fox hunted. $4,750,000

CHESHIRE HUNT COUNTRY

Set on 74 acre, the charming c.1806, 5BR, 4.1BA home retains an antique patina but has an addition with new Kitchen, Family Room & Master Suite.

Great 6 stall barn. $2,485,000

WARWICK TOWNSHIP

Rock Run Farm contains 98+ acres, specimen plantings, a 4 acre pond & a privately set antique home in need of total restoration. THIS IS A GREAT OPPORTUNITY! $1,800,000

NEW LISTING!

CHESHIRE HUNT COUNTRY

On 63+ park-like acres, Fineskinde Farm is like owning your own preserve! 4BR, 2.1BA main house (c.1700 with later additions), great stone barn and several rental units. $1,649,900

RADNOR HUNT COUNTRY

RADNOR HUNT COUNTRY

Private 20.28 acres & down a long lane is this 12 yr. old 5BR, 4.1BA home featuring grand Foyer, stunning Kitchen & fully finished lwr. lvl.

Wonderful 5 stall barn/several pastures - hacking is boundless. Located near Marshallton. $1,337,500

RADNOR HUNT COUNTRY

OLD PICKERING HUNT

This 4BR 3.2BA on 11 ac. has incredible views over pool, rolling lawn, lg. pond, stream and incredible waterfall! Great location, quality construction & realistically priced! $1,225,000

CHESHIRE HUNT COUNTRY

This 18.2 acre farm is privately set at the end of a long lane & the views are spectacular. The 4BR, 3.1BA home has a flexible floor plan. Nice 4 stall barn & 5 paddocks. $1,150,000

This 5.9 acre farm features a privately set 5BR, 3.2 BA home with stunning Master Suite, Office Wing (possible in-law suite!) & great Kitchen. In-ground pool & barn & 2BR, 1.1 BA apt. $1,147,900

This is a great opportunity to own a 22 ac. farm in Unionville Schools! The 4BR, 4.2BA barn conversion offers lots of great space. Great for a home business! Nice barn & riding ring. $950,000

NEWLIN TOWNSHIP

CHESHIRE HUNT COUNTRY

BIRMINGHAM TOWNSHIP

This c.1759 4BR, 4.1BA home has been open for Chester County Day. Antique charm yet totally updated! Fantastic Kitchen with custom cabinetry.

Rebuilt barn on 10 acs. $947,900

This 13+acre property features an antique home with a new unfinished addition totally 6,500+ sq. ft. of living space! Has tastefully finished in-law suite, 2 car garage & office space. $849,900

NEW PRICE!

Located in the township historic district, sits this 4BR, c.1837 serpentine stone home on 10 acres with a small barn. This is a great opportunity for the lucky buyer! $749,900

YOUNG ENTRY FAIRLY HUNTED AWARD CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12

At the Wire Early in 2013, the MFHA, in conjunction with The Jockey Club’s Thoroughbred Incentive Program ran a contest honoring off-the-track Thoroughbreds.

The adult essay contest winners were announced in the summer issue of Covertside. The youth entries were judged by authors Jan Neuharth and Rita Mae Brown, MFH, and foxhunting editor John Strassburger. The winning youth entry was submitted by Kate Liner, from Moore County Hounds.

T

HERE IS A LOT OF TALK about second careers for off-the-track Thoroughbreds, but my dad’s horse Lilly is on her fourth.

Lilly is a beautiful dark bay that is 16 hands and has a small crescent-shaped star.

Although we cannot read the entire tattoo, Lilly must have been a great racehorse, because she loves to run, and she is extremely fast.

After she retired from racing, she became a polo mare.

She must have been great at polo too, because she played until she was 18 years old.

At the end of her polo career, she was sold to a lady who buys and sells ex-racehorses and -polo horses. Our neighbor, who is also my trainer, bought Lilly for her daughter 14 | COVERTSIDE

to use for polocrosse. The daughter didn’t really have the time or desire to play polocrosse, and Lilly was too high strung to be a lesson horse, so she found a home at our farm five years ago, and my dad started playing polocrosse.

Polocrosse is a fast-paced game similar to lacrosse on horseback. Both of my parents, my 16-year-old brother, and I all play polocrosse. Although she is hard to stop, Lilly is a fantastic polocrosse horse.

At first, I was the only one in the family who foxhunted.

I started through pony club, and I have always loved the speed and the jumping. I wasn’t sure if Lilly would behave well enough to foxhunt, but three years ago my dad

WINNING ESSAY

by Kate Liner AGE 14, MOORE COUNTY HOUNDS, SOUTHERN PINES, N.C.

decided to try her. To our surprise, Lilly behaved perfectly.

She doesn’t mind the hounds, she waits patiently at checks, and she can keep up with the field easily, even though she recently turned twenty-four.

Since Lilly is so strong, the only person that can ride her is my dad. They seem to have a special connection, and they understand each other.

Even though she is hard to ride, Lilly has had four successful careers. I wonder what her fifth will be.

WESLEY BRYAN ....................... Edisto River Hounds MCKENZIE BURKHALTER ... Tennessee Valley Hunt MISS RANDI BYRD ................... Bedford County Hunt CARMEN CANTRELL .............. Warrenton Hunt CRYSTAL CARTER ................... Glenmore Hunt LILY CLARK.................................. Woodford Hounds MISS AUDREY CLARK ........... Potomac Hunt DAVIS COLLEY........................... Golden’s Bridge Hounds RACHEL CONE........................... Goshen Hounds MASTER WILLIAM COORS . Arapahoe Hunt MASTER JOSEPH COORS ... Arapahoe Hunt MISS CECILY COORS .............. Arapahoe Hunt MISS MEGHAN L. COPENHAVER ............................ Deep Run Hunt ALIVIA COTTER ........................ Green Creek Hounds MICHAELA CRENSHAW ....... Tennessee Valley Hunt PAUL CRIPPS .............................. Genesee Valley Hunt DANIEL F. C. CROWLEY ....... Potomac Hunt MISS REAGAN CROWLEY ... Potomac Hunt MEGHAN DANIELS .................. Sewickley Hunt KELSEY DECKER ...................... New Market-Middletown Valley Hounds CHLOE DELEO ........................... Golden’s Bridge Hounds BAILEY DOLOFF Green Spring Valley Hounds INGRID DONNAN ..................... Genesee Valley Hunt GIBSON DONNAN.................... Genesee Valley Hunt MISS LILY DYE ............................ Arapahoe Hunt JACK EDDOWES....................... Deep Run Hunt FINLEY EICHLER....................... Deep Run Hunt JAMIE EWING............................. New Market-Middletown Valley Hounds KENNEDY EZEKIEL ................. Edisto River Hounds LAUREN FAGAN........................ Sewickley Hunt DAISY FENWICK....................... Green Spring Valley Hounds TOMMY FENWICK ................... Green Spring Valley Hounds MOLLY FORD .............................. Wicomico Hunt CHRISTINA FRASER ............... Chagrin Valley Hunt LIAM FRASER ............................. Chagrin Valley Hunt REX GENTRY............................... Cloudline Hounds MISS TAYLOR GERRETY ....... Potomac Hunt ABIGAIL GLIKES ....................... Sewickley Hunt JAMIE GLUECK .......................... Goshen Hounds CLAIRE GOFF ............................. Iroquois Hunt HADLEY GREENE..................... North Country Hounds AMANDA GREENING ............. Metamora Hunt JESSICA GREENING ............... Metamora Hunt ELLA GRONER ........................... Goshen Hounds ASHBROOK GWINN ............... Edisto River Hounds SAMANTHA HAILEY ............... Warrenton Hunt SOPHIE HAILEY......................... Warrenton Hunt HUGH HALSEY ........................... Deep Run Hunt MS. EMILY HANDLER.............. Golden’s Bridge Hounds COOPER HANN ......................... Bijou Springs Hunt MISS HELENA HANSON ....... Potomac Hunt PELHAM HARDIE...................... Green Spring Valley Hounds SYDNEY HAYES......................... Thornton Hill Fort Valley Hounds MISS SASHA HELLER ............. Arapahoe Hunt MISS SAMANTHA HELLER .. Arapahoe Hunt RILEY HOGAN ............................ Warrenton Hunt GERARD HOGAN...................... Warrenton Hunt HANNAH HOLMES................... Rocky Fork Headley Hunt PETER HOOD.............................. Piedmont Fox Hounds CONTINUED ON PAGE 16

winter 2013 | 15

Whiskey Road Foxhounds’

HUNT WEEK 2014 February 5th-February 13th Aiken, South Carolina

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Please send inquiries to:

::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::: Fairly Hunted award continued from page 14

Emily Hovis.................................................. Mission Valley Hunt Club Andrew Hughes..................................... Mission Valley Hunt Club Katie Hurt.................................................... Iroquois Hunt Alex James................................................Warrenton Hunt Elizabeth Jiraneck...........................Green Spring Valley Hounds Krista Jiraneck....................................Green Spring Valley Hounds Maggie Johnson..................................New Market - Middletown Valley Hounds Ryan Keefe................................................Goshen Hounds Miss Nichole Kirkele........................Arapahoe Hunt Elizabeth Grace Kitahara.........Mission Valley Hunt Club Olivia Knight..........................................Tennessee Valley Hunt Liam Knight...............................................Green Mountain Hounds Miss Caroline Komodore............Arapahoe Hunt Miss Tessa Landy.................................Arapahoe Hunt Miranda Langford............................Warrenton Hunt Courtney Law.......................................Edisto River Hounds Melissa Lempicki..................................New Market - Middletown Valley Hounds Mary Katherine Leveridge.........Iroquois Hunt Maggie Lloyd..........................................Genesee Valley Hunt Sharlee Lowe........................................Metamora Hunt Charlotte Lynch.................................Green Spring Valley Hounds Mercer Lynch.........................................Green Spring Valley Hounds Sam Marchant.......................................Green Spring Valley Hounds Master Sam Marvo.............................Arapahoe Hunt Jack McLean............................................Sewickley Hunt Aidan Mcmanamey..............................Piedmont Fox Hounds Allie Mcmanamey...............................Piedmont Fox Hounds Kate Miner.................................................Genesee Valley Hunt Katherine Mistick...............................Sewickley Hunt Russell Moore......................................Warrenton Hunt Preston Moore.....................................Warrenton Hunt Lulu Moore..............................................Golden’s Bridge Hounds Luke Moosmann...................................Chagrin Valley Hunt Minnie Morris.........................................Green Spring Valley Hounds

16 | Covertside

Miss Mercedes Muldoon...............Arapahoe Hunt Aidan Mulligan....................................Genesee Valley Hunt Claire Mulligan...................................Genesee Valley Hunt Ricca Olson.............................................Beaufort Hunt Ella Overbey..........................................Los Altos Hounds Brett Owings.........................................Green Spring Valley Hounds Claire Pace...............................................Metamora Hunt Rachel Paradise..................................Warrenton Hunt Elizabeth Parvini...............................Goshen Hounds Miss Lauren Patoile..........................Arapahoe Hunt Tatiana Pejacsevich........................Piedmont Fox Hounds Chiara Pejacsevich..........................Piedmont Fox Hounds Molly Petronzio.................................Warrenton Hunt Abby Polansky......................................Princess Anne Hunt Margaret Proffitt...........................Deep Run Hunt Miss Aly Ranucci..................................Arapahoe Hunt Anna Reed.................................................Warrenton Hunt Madison Remillard...........................Piedmont Fox Hounds Morgan Remillard............................Piedmont Fox Hounds Lizzie Rives...............................................Keswick Hunt Emanuele Robert...............................Lake of Two Mountains Hunt Laura Roberts.....................................Green Spring Valley Hounds Miss Lillian Rogers...........................Arapahoe Hunt Heather Rohwein...............................No Hunt Affiliation Miss McCaela Rounds.....................Arapahoe Hunt Miss Anna Salas...................................Arapahoe Hunt Alex Sands...............................................New Market - Middletown Valley Hounds Master Vinny Sangaline..............Arapahoe Hunt MacKenzie Schuster........................Genesee Valley Hunt Kennedy Scruggs...............................Tennessee Valley Hunt Elizabeth Scully.................................Green Spring Valley Hounds Sarah Sebbane......................................Goshen Hounds Katy Servine............................................Woodbrook Hunt Tate Shaw..................................................Goshen Hounds Miss Madeline Silverstein...........Arapahoe Hunt Jessica Singley.....................................Warrenton Hunt Mackensie Smith...................................New Market - Middletown Valley Hounds Avery Smith..............................................Green Spring Valley Hounds Colin Smith...............................................Green Spring Valley Hounds Miss Kamdyn Smith.............................Arapahoe Hunt Fiona Spence..........................................North Country Hounds Angus Spence.........................................North Country Hounds Katarina Stephanos........................Goshen Hounds Alexandra Stephanos...................Goshen Hounds Marshall Stiemert............................Woodbrook Hunt Forest Stone..........................................Piedmont Fox Hounds Anna Straka...........................................Sewickley Hunt Jack Stutts..............................................Deep Run Hunt Calder Stutts........................................Deep Run Hunt Max Stwertka.......................................Genesee Valley Hunt Kati Sullivan...........................................Metamora Hunt Dana Sullivan.......................................Metamora Hunt Schyler Sutton....................................Piedmont Fox Hounds Erin Swope................................................No Hunt Affiliation MacKenzie Taylor...............................Goshen Hounds Hunter Taylor.......................................Goshen Hounds Joe Thorne...............................................Genesee Valley Hunt Miss Caitlin Umberger...................Potomac Hunt Eliza Van Der Woude......................Warrenton Hunt Alexandra Van Der Woude.......Warrenton Hunt Corrine Vanella.................................Sewickley Hunt Sophia Vella...........................................Warrenton Hunt Will Vogel................................................Piedmont Fox Hounds Michael Wagstaff.............................Piedmont Fox Hounds Alana Wall..............................................Piedmont Fox Hounds Mason Walter.......................................Iroquois Hunt Miss Cameron Ward.........................Arapahoe Hunt Casey Welsh...........................................Green Spring Valley Hounds Hal Westerlund..................................Green Spring Valley Hounds Tess Whitmore......................................Woodbrook Hunt Mackenzie Williams.........................Genesee Valley Hunt Rosie Williamson...............................Woodbrook Hunt Anna Williamson...............................Woodbrook Hunt Miss Caroline Wolcott................Aiken Hounds

YOUNG ENTRY

Samantha Arthur, class of 2015, on Oldfields’ school horse, Hopscotch.

The photo was taken at the 2012 Thanksgiving Day hunt with Green Spring Valley Hounds.

Reading, Writing and Riding to Hounds How Prep Schools and Colleges are Getting Students into the Hunt Field

BY LAURA MULLANE

A

CHANDLER WILLETTE

INSIGHTS FROM STUDENTS “Foxhunting is exhilarating!

I like how non-competitive and fun it is.”

JULIA ABBOTT, Class of 2014, Oldfields School “When I enrolled at Foxcroft School, I chose it for many reasons — the community, the traditions, the friends — but I didn’t realize just how

lucky I would be. I could not only ride and play sports, but I could foxhunt again. …

I can’t say how happy that makes me. I ride any one of the school horses and have complete confidence in them because they are all healthy, sane animals.”

KATE EAGEN, Class of 2014, Foxcroft School

“Foxhunting teaches you to multi-task as a rider. When you’re foxhunting, you not only have to think about yourself, you must be aware of your horse. You learn to trust your horse’s ability and develop your own.”

JULIA BAYLISS, Class of 2015, Sweet Briar College

CCORDING TO Gordon Cameron, Master of the Chagrin Valley Hunt in Ohio, the demographics of foxhunting have changed dramatically in the past generation.

“It used to be that every well-to-do individual could do two things: speak a dead language and ride a horse,” he said. “That’s not necessarily the case anymore.” As the population of foxhunters ages and open space becomes scarcer, hunt clubs are looking for ways to get the younger generation involved. Fortunately for them, the sport is experiencing a resurgence at prep schools and colleges alike as schools look for new ways to expose students to a wide range of riding disciplines, improve riding skills and foster a sense of community.

WINTER 2013 | 17

Lauren Rogers, ’14, riding her horse Petey, participated in Sweet Briar’s hunter trials, another event meant to encourage skills for foxhunting.

In Prep Schools

Foxhunting has long been a tradition at Foxcroft, an all-girls prep school situated on 500 acres in Middleburg, Va., and founded in 1914 by Charlotte Haxall Noland, former Master of the Middleburg Hunt. Foxcroft students regularly rode to hounds as part of their schooling experience. Hunting fell by the wayside in the 1970s and 80s, according to Laurie Feickert, a riding instructor at Foxcroft, but was reestablished about 20 years ago by the school’s former riding director, who began once again building a relationship with the Middleburg Hunt.

Now, each season, the school takes about five girls out to hunt at least three times a year. Most students don’t have any experience with foxhunting, so Feickert first tests their abilities on the trail, where she teaches them both the etiquette of the hunt field and the riding skills they’ll need, such as taking off at a canter, halting quickly and standing while the hounds work. For many students, riding out is an entirely new experience. “I’ve seen girls who are absolutely fabulous riders in the ring,” said Feickert, “but I’d take them out cross-country to 18 | Covertside

canter and jump some coops, and they’d be terrified. Some girls have ridden their whole lives without ever riding outside the ring.”

Oldfields School in Maryland, just north of Baltimore, is another all-girls prep school with a rich foxhunting history that is reintroducing the sport after several years’ hiatus. Last season, the school took about seven students to 15 hunts with Green Spring Valley Hounds. This season, the school plans to at least double that, adding the Elkridge-Harford and unrecognized hunt Mount Carmel to its roster. “We’ve recommitted in a huge way,” said Amy Phillips, director of riding at Oldfields. “Most of our girls have never foxhunted before. We want to make sure they have the opportunity to be exposed to it.”

Part of that exposure is ensuring the girls fully understand the tradition and purpose of foxhunting. “These are teenage girls,” said Phillips. “They probably won’t want to see a fox get killed. But we think it’s critical that they understand the honor and tradition when a fox does die. It is not a waste; it’s a tribute. If they happen to see it, we want them to understand what it’s really about.”

At College

In addition to prep schools, several college riding programs are also beginning to add a foxhunting element — either for the first time or after several years away from it.

William Woods University in Fulton, Mo., recently began participating in a weekend hunt with the Oak Ridge Hunt in Aston, Va. The Master of the Oak Ridge Hunt, Rita Mae Brown, sits on the board of trustees for William Woods. “She spent seven years trying to convince us to have our students come hunt with them,” said Laura Ward, assistant professor of equestrian studies at William Woods.

“She kept offering, but we kept telling her, ‘We’re in Missouri. You’re on the other side of the Appalachians. We can’t do that.’ But she talked us into it.” So in 2010 and again last year, William Woods took 16 to 18 students on a field trip to the Virginia countryside, where the Oak Ridge Hunt kindly loaned students their horses for two days of hunting.

For William Woods, foxhunting is a way of expanding their Equine Studies students’ education. “Foxhunting isn’t part of our curriculum,” said Ward,” but we feel it’s very important to have as much global knowledge

Class size is limited to four students, but because the course was not put on the schedule until late summer (and most students had registered for this semester’s classes by last spring), only one student is participating this fall. “We see this as a trial run,” said Hess. “It will give us a chance to see how it goes and then in the spring, students can register for the fall 2014 class.”

land available for future generations.”

Phillips at Oldfields said land conservation is one of the primary reasons they take their students foxhunting. “We want them to play an active role in preserving it,” she said.

“We want to make sure they understand the history of the land and that they’re a part of maintaining that history and culture. They get to gallop through some really amazing historical places. We want to keep it that way.”

Of course, getting students to care about the tradition and the land means they have to fall in love with it first. Cameron of the Chagrin Valley Hunt put it this way: “I say that getting young people involved in foxhunting is like a puppy dog sale where you tell the parents, ‘Listen, have the kids take the puppy home for a night. See how it goes.’ And, of course, the puppy never comes back because the kids fall in love with it. The same is true of foxhunting. You do it once and you experience the adventure and this community of folks who come together and bond over something, and you’re hooked.”

Getting students excited about foxhunting is, perhaps more than anything, the force behind Lake Erie’s course. “I would like to see our students become enamored with foxhunting,” said Hess. “I want them to move back to their home communities and keep doing it there, or start a club there. That, to me, will be the greatest reward of this course: that they continue.”

From Bolder Riders to Conservationists

The hope of all of these foxhunting endeavors is that students will walk away better riders with a sense of camaraderie with their fellow equestrians. “The girls are so much braver when they come back from foxhunting,” said Phillips of Oldfields. “They’ll look at a big fence that might have intimidated them before and say, ‘Oh, I can jump that!’ Foxhunting teaches you to get out there and keep up.

Sometimes the girls will be out there for the first time and look a little worried, but on the way back they’re smiling so big I tell them I’m going to have to pick the bugs out their teeth.”

Volk agrees: “Foxhunting forces you to learn how to deal with different circumstances,” she said. “You learn how to ride by the seat of your pants. I grew up in the show jumping world and I loved it, but there’s something about being out in the field where you don’t know how many strides there are before a fence. You just have to learn to get the job done.”

Foxhunting is also seen as a way to foster a sense of community among students. “Foxhunting is a way for the girls to enjoy horses without being competitive,” said Phillips. In a world where competition among young people has grown to a fevered pitch, the opportunity to get out in nature and simply enjoy horses and classmates helps balance students.

“The camaraderie it develops among the girls is really great to see,” she added.

But even more important than creating better riders and fostering a sense of community, these schools see foxhunting as an opportunity to give young people an appreciation for a centuries-old tradition and the land it uses.

“One of the reasons Rita Mae Brown wanted to get William Woods students involved was to promote land preservation,” said Ward. “I tell students that the least important part of foxhunting is catching the fox. It’s about animal welfare and keeping the

Laura Mullane is a writer whose work has been published in The Washington Post, among other publications, and who really wishes she’d have gone to school somewhere where they offered foxhunting.

Laura Ward

as you can about what people do with horses.”

In preparation for the hunt, Ward requires students to read Rita Mae Brown’s murder mystery “Outfoxed,” which embeds the history and details of foxhunting into an exciting story line.

“Students come away with an appreciation for a different aspect of the equestrian industry that they knew nothing about before.”

Sweet Briar College near Lynchburg, Va., doesn’t offer a degree program in equine studies, but riding is available as an elective — and foxhunting is increasingly becoming part of that. Located in the heart of hunt country (the Bedford County Hunt crosses the Sweet Briar campus), the college also has a long history associated with the sport. In fact, a pack of beagles and hounds used to be housed on campus. But, similar to Foxcroft and Oldfields, foxhunting dropped out of favor in the latter part of last century. Now, the college is working to reestablish hunting as part of its riding program, working to rebuild its string of foxhunting horses and educating students about the hunt.

Part of that education is through hunter trials and a hunter pace that are offered on campus. Those events funnel students interested in foxhunting into the sport. Each year, about five students will join the Bedford County or Farmington hunts to ride with the hounds, and Sweet Briar is hoping to grow that number, according to Mimi Wroten, director of riding.

But perhaps the biggest venture by a postsecondary institution into foxhunting is that of Lake Erie College outside of Cleveland, Ohio, which this fall introduced a one-credit foxhunting elective. “Riding to Hounds” meets once weekly and then again on Saturday mornings to hunt with the Chagrin Valley Hunt. The idea for the course started with a conversation between Dr. Pam Hess, dean of Lake Erie’s School of Equine Studies, and Lana Volk, trainer at nearby Durkee Hill Stables. “We were at a fundraiser and I told her I thought it would be great to get kids from the school involved in foxhunting to round out their education,” said Volk, who, for the past eight years, has provided foxhunting horses for clients and trains riders to get them ready for the hunt field. Volk offered Lake Erie the use of her string of horses.

Cameron of Chagrin Valley then got involved, working with Hess to develop the curriculum and serving as a guest lecturer for the class. “We want to keep the tradition of foxhunting in the mind space of younger folks,” said Cameron.

“We do a lot of stuff with pony club and other youth groups, but we thought it would be really good to partner with Lake Erie, too, and get their students involved.”

William Woods University students went from Missouri to Virginia to ride with Rita Mae Brown and the Oak Ridge Fox Hunt Club.

winter 2013 | 19

young entry

20 | Covertside

No fair weather riders here, as Sam Dozier, his mother Erin and brother Lee brave the damp at Belle Meade’s Hunt Week.

Next page: Neilly at the same event.

The Foxhunting Family

By Epp Wilson, MFH

It takes a village to raise a foxhunting family.

They hunt a lot.

They work a lot.

They are cheerful and fun.

They are helpful.

All six of them fit this profile.

T

hat is the unusual thing. Mom and dad and all four children. We’re talking about the Dozier family, members of Belle Meade. The Doziers have four kids close in age, and all of them love to hunt. When the Doziers drive up to the meet (often in a cloud of dust), it lifts all our spirits even higher.

Parents Erin and Dick do not have any hired staff at their farm. They do it all themselves. “It takes a lot of organization and dedication,” Erin says.

“From getting up Saturday mornings and washing horses and tying six stock ties. From piecing tack together and hoping everyone has got everything they need to cramming four ponies onto a 30-year-old two-horse trailer. Sometimes I am exhausted riding in the car and arriving on two wheels. And you ask yourself why didn’t I just come ride by myself? It may be hectic, but then you get out there and hear the hounds speaking and see the smiles on the kids’ faces and it is all worth it. What other sport can you do like this as a family — all participating — all having fun?”

If all six hunt, it takes two trips to haul all the horses and ponies. Thank goodness they live only five minutes from the hunt barn. Ponies jump out of every door — it looks like a jack-in-the-box. winter 2013 | 21

Those four ponies have names that read like they jumped off the pages of a children’s book, or maybe a cartoon: Milk Shake, Honey Pie, Tom and Jerry, and Buck.

Lee just turned nine. He is conservative and thoughtful and thinks things through — he wants everything to be right. His face lights up in the biggest smile.

Neilly, 7, is very determined and competitive. She is more of a daredevil. She will try almost anything.

Sam, 6, is carefree. He is always happy and smiling. He could care less if he is in the front

or the back. He does want his pony to go faster. There is a reason he is on that pony.

Ruby, 5, is more of a performer. Just because she is the youngest and smallest doesn’t mean she is the slowest. She thinks she can do anything her siblings can do and do it better.

Mom Erin grew up hunting with her father. She was a gifted rider from the very beginning. And she is quite determined. She had a great pony named Do Right who did wrong often. He would quit a fence here and there just to assert his opinion. Erin would always make him jump, but it wasn’t easy.

From those early years with Do Right, Erin showed she had the true grit it takes to be a foxhunter for life. Erin and her father, Tommy, took lessons together and hunted together for many years. Tommy and Erin both earned their colors with Belle Meade early in their hunting careers.

One of my favorite memories of Tommy and Erin hunting together was our BMH hunting trip to Middleburg in the winter of 1994. We had five days of joint meets and Tommy and Erin hunted every meet. The highlight of the week for me was when Erin got to wear scarlet and whip-in during our

joint meet with Piedmont. Randy Waterman, MFH, was kind enough to allow this — it was her 16th birthday.

Father Tommy has started back hunting. It is wonderful to see grandpa and his daughter and son-in-law and all four grandkids hunting together. That makes a good day hunting even better for all of us.

Dick, Erin’s lucky husband, rode here and there but had never been serious about it. He never had lessons. He would come out with his uncle, John McNeill, who whipped-in at Belle Meade and Dick would ride with him on occasion. More often, though, he would just come over and hang out at the hunt. Erin says, “We met at the hunt and started dating.

Then he had to hunt.”

Dick and Erin can serve in any capacity in the hunt. They can whip-in. They can lead any field. They can ride in the very back with their kids. And they can do it well and cheerfully.

“We started them very young,” says Erin.

“We were lead-lining Lee on a pony at three — on the slower Sunday hunts — they all started that young.” Both parents would ride a pony — and pony the kids on their pony.

PHOTO BY CHANDLER WILLETT

Where learning moves out of the classroom and into the barn.

Oldfields School is located in the heart of Maryland hunt country.

Learn more about Oldfields at

www.OldfieldsSchool.org 22 | Covertside

Dick deserves a lot of the credit, too.Sometimes he would just walk on foot the whole hunt, cheerfully leading a pony.

He always carried a radio. Dick on foot and the child he was leading on a pony have viewed more than once. This is remarkable considering we are hunting 95 percent coyotes and only five percent foxes and that our country is a vast 35,000 acres. All the kids have viewed — some multiple times. And it is wonderful for me as the huntsman to gallop up and have one of the kids tell me what they saw and which way it was going. The child is so excited he or she is bouncing up and down in the saddle. It just warms everyone’s hearts. It makes my day.

Whether whipping-in or leading a kid on a pony, Dick and Erin “get it.” They understand where to be and when to be there.

As Peter Beckford said in “Thoughts Upon Hunting”: “There is rarely a moment during the course of the hunting day that there is not a precise place for the foxhunter to be — and if he be not there, he may as well be in his bed.”

Consistently having the kids in the right place at the right time makes it more fun for them. It makes the kids want to come

back over and over. Even though the kids all have very different personalities, they all love to foxhunt. Not only do the kids ride and foxhunt, they deer hunt and turkey hunt and fish. They even have good grades!

They are active with many hunt activities.

They don’t just ride. They participate in work days. They show hounds. They go to Hunt Ball and Hunt Week. They helped their dad deliver Christmas gifts to many of our landowners. It is important to Erin and Dick that the kids understand all the work that goes on behind the scenes that makes it all possible.

“We are all out there as a team and everybody in the hunt family helps to raise our juniors,” Erin says.

They “play well with others.” They have tons of friends at school, but their best friends are their hunt friends — young and old. The kids are comfortable talking with adult hunt members, kids or Masters.

Erin says she was and is the same way.

“We don’t make them hunt. They have the option of staying at home. They choose to hunt. If they can’t all go then I have to make a choice of who can go this time — and rotate it

around,” Erin says.

They are not fair weather riders. They hunt every Saturday, rain, cold or shine. Erin also points out that a big reason the kids like it is that they get to spend quality time with their parents when they hunt.

Recently, Neilly decided to learn “The Belle Meade Toast,” a wonderful poem written by our poet laureate and landowner, Mrs. Pinkie Knox. It is a wonderful poem, but it is long.

She does it beautifully and learned it by listening to it over and over on YouTube. She recited it at our Blessing of Hounds Ceremony — with 500 people in attendance. At the time she was six years old.

Erin is quick to point out that it was the Belle Meade Hunt family that gave Neilly the opportunity and the confidence to do it.

Juniors are the future of our hunt, your hunt and foxhunting in America. It is our duty as adults to teach our juniors so that they are willing and able to become the next generation of leaders. You are never too young to learn the love of foxhunting.

Epp Wilson is Master and huntsman of Belle Meade, in Georgia.

winter 2013 | 23

special advertising section Q: What overall measures do I need to take in order to ensure a successful day in the field?

A: There are obviously several factors that

ensure total equine health, but the most important ones are maintaining proper foot care and ensuring that your horse is conditioned for a full day’s hunt.

Proper shoeing is vital. Even though a participant might be familiar with the landscape they are hunting, the terrain can always be variable. These environments can be rocky, icy, and muddy, and therefore it is always wise to have a suitably shod horse done by a seasoned professional.

Your horse’s body condition, their development, and ability are also extremely important. Most hunts begin early in the morning and last until late afternoon; therefore your horse must be able to sustain a high level of activity for that amount of time.

Q: What steps should I take to transition my show hunter into a field hunter?

Diana Rowland

A: Typically, show hunters are not nearly as fit.

High-Season Horse Health

Equine expert Steve Allday, DVM, answers your questions.

Q: What is the best way to maintain my hunter at his healthiest weight throughout the hunt season?

A: That will depend on your horse’s age and his conditioning score prior to the beginning of the season. The season itself is a challenge in that it begins in the late summer and goes through spring in most territories. The nutrients that your horse requires in the warmer weather are less than what they will need to maintain their core 24 | Covertside

body temperature in the winter.

It is more than likely that their conditioning score will lower throughout the season depending on how often you participate in hunts. One must take the age, conditioning score, and the weather into account when adjusting caloric intake and rations through the season to maintain healthy weight. The use of Re-Borne is also very effective in this transition. Re-Borne can improve conversion, therefore owners don’t have to overfeed their animals for maximum results.

They have way more cover or reserve. They should be conditioned to go much faster for much longer. Aerobic conditioning is the best way to start. Regular galloping will increase resiliency and lessen the likelihood of injury to suspensories and joints. I would say a good solid 15-20 minutes of good exercise; at least 10 minutes of loping, and 3-5 minutes of galloping. This will cause heavy breathing at first, but they will become accustomed after a period of time. Horses that are used to a show ring hunter pace will not be able to keep up with a field hunter gallop for extended periods of time. Riders run the risk of having to stop and being left during a hunt.

Q: Field hunting is very demanding and I am always concerned on my horse’s recovery, what is the best way to ensure he is healthy between hunts?

A: Besides overall management of your horse, the recovery of your animal is also reflective to the amount of conditioning they have. Essentially your horse has to be able to maintain a hand-gallop, clear obstacles, and reach certain

points on the hunt quickly. If your animal is showing signs of stress and takes more than ten minutes to gather their breath, in my opinion, it is important to reassess their conditioning. There is a high likelihood that if they show these signs that they will also exhibit effusion and swelling in their joints.

A healthy, conditioned horse will recover better and faster than one that is not at their peak health. Supplementing his diet with ReBorne can effectively lower recovery time after hunts and strenuous training.

ED ROV PP

MENDED OM •A EC

Q: GASTRIC ULCERS ARE A SERIOUS CONCERN. UNDER WHAT CONDITIONS DO THEY MOST COMMONLY OCCUR? CAN RE-BORNE HELP A HORSE WITH ULCERS AND EVEN HELP TO PREVENT THEM?

RINARIAN TE VELOPED • DE R

A: Depending on the number of days you hunt during the week, I would recommend any additional 2-3 days of exercise for your horse. Flatwork, further conditioning, and aerobic workouts are beneficial in keeping your horse fit and prepared for your weekly hunts. In addition, some intermittent jumping to continue improving timing is always wise.

VE

Q: WHAT KIND OF EXERCISE WOULD YOU RECOMMEND BETWEEN HUNTS?

Total Health From the Inside Out From the track to the field, LubriSynHA & ReBorne deliver joint health and improved performance.

A: If you believe that your activity level could

be causing gastric ulcers, common signs are exhibiting lack of interest in food, delayed eating time, rough hair coat, and increased overall stress. Because of the high density of immune and all-natural growth factors contained in Re-Borne, it is able to boost the overall immune system, help maintain weight, ensure a healthy GI tract and essentially help overcome most symptoms of gastric ulcers. Keeping their weight up, lowering their stress levels, and monitoring the conditioning score will all help with this problem furthering the optimum performance efficiency we are always looking for.

Dr. Steve Allday specializes in equine sports medicine with a focus on Thoroughbred racehorses. Dr. Allday’s veterinary credentials include five Thoroughbred Horses of the Year, thirteen Triple Crown race winners, and twenty-nine Breeders Cup race winners.

His 25-year practice has spanned the world.

Dr. Allday’s special expertise is in demand at tracks across the world. Top owners and trainers have all demanded his time and expertise. In short, Dr. Allday’s career and

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Annual

GIFT GUIDE 2013 LORIECE FOX & HORN STOCK PIN

$102.00 We love the simplicity of this pin. Whether you choose Sterling Silver, Gold, or Platinum, the clean lines and clever use of both fox and horn will bring a subtly elegant touch to a perfectly (or even imperfectly) tied stock tie. www.loriece.com

BERETTA WIND BARRIER SHORT ZIP SWEATER

$140.00 Experience the pure wool warmth and rugged good looks of this cozy, short-zippered pullover. A barrier lining and fleece-lined collar keeps the frostiest of winds at bay.

Cotton twill gun patches cover both shoulders and ribbed knit cuffs and bottom keep out drafts. tricountyfeeds.com

26 | COVERTSIDE

DUBARRY BRACKEN UTILITY JACKET

$549.00 Dubarry just gets things right. They do.

The silhouette of this jacket is decidedly feminine, as are details like gathered patch pockets and antiqued, cast metal buttons. So, when you combine lovely design with the unmatchable performance of 100% wool tweed, you get a jacket that’s truly worthy to call a foxhunter’s closet home. us-shop.dubarry.us

TUCKER TWEED MANOR TOTE

$219.00 The Tweed Manor Tote embodies equestrian style and glamour. The super chic color-block design and fox head logo are the ultimate in style for our lot! The pebble grain leather and idyllic form fits all riders beautifully. A wide, adjustable shoulder strap makes it comfortable to take with you just about anywhere you go. It even features smartphone and key pockets – brilliant! www.tuckertweed.com



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 

PINNELL CUSTOM LEATHER – JOY FOX STERLING SILVER AND LEATHER CUFF BRACELET

$510.00 What a handsome piece of jewelry! This unique bracelet features Pinnell’s Joy Fox set in a solid brass ring. The American alligator strap closes with a sterling silver horseshoe buckle.

This is definitely a statement piece. www.pinnellcustomleather.com

WINTER 2013 | 27

Define your Style Custom Equestrian Chapeaux for Aprés Hunt • Steeplechase Polo • Carriage Driving • Derby

MOSS FRESH RIDER GROOMING WIPES

$14.95 These awesomely scented wipes make perfect stocking stuffers. There is nothing better to finish off the grooming process than to get that last little bit of dirt your dandy brush just can’t touch. Plus, these babies add a lustrous sheen to your horse’s coat. We love them for touch-ups to the face and muzzle. 26 wipes per container. www.equestriancollections.com

1-866-609-HATS (4287) • www.bydiana.com

B o n n i e l i n g e r f e lt Equestrian Properties & Fine Country Homes

Specializing in Equestrian Properties in Tryon, North Carolina Horse Country

TryonProperties.com 866-691-2291

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

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

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

FOR YOUR PETS: ALL NATURAL PET FOODS

Pet tags engraved while you wait.

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

Huntsman Wanted

SEASON

2014 2015

Red Mountain Foxhounds of Rougemont, NC is seeking a professional Huntsman for the 2014-2015 season.

Please contact Angela Royal MFH (919) 730-1213 or Angelaroyal@me.com www.redmountainhounds.com 28 | COVERTSIDE

Mike Edie, Realtor/Broker

www.liveinthesandhillsnc.com • 910-603-0083

Residential and Equestrian Properties Throughout Pinehurst and Southern Pines, North Carolina

ANDIS MBG DETACHABLE BLADE CLIPPER

$89.95 The only things you really need to know about this clipper are that it is heavy duty and it is affordable. Of course, Andis is a brand you can trust because, well, they have been cranking out heavy duty, high performing clippers forever. Other features that are nice (read: will save your life) include a quiet running motor and the fact that it is compatible with Oster A5 blades.

Available at SmartPak, www.smartpakequine.com

CLEVER WITH LEATHER SNAFFLE BIT BELT

$75.00 This is an easy gift to give because it is made from beautiful leather and crafted by the hands of a Master Saddler. Just 1 inch wide, it’s the perfect compliment to your breeches or your jeans. Comes in S, M, L, and XL. Choose from Black, Traditional Brown, or Bridle Brown. www.cleverwithleather.com

WHERE TO FIND IT Products are available from their manufacturers, but many are also available at tack and horse supply retailers. We suggest the following:

FOXHUNTING SHOP: Bentonville, Ar., www.foxhuntingshop.com

HORSE COUNTRY: Warrenton, Va., www.horsecountrycarrot.com

HORSE N HOUND: Flint Hill, Va., www.horsenhound.com

TRI-COUNTY FEEDS, FASHION, FINDS: Marshall, Va., www.tricountyfeeds.com

EVERYTHING HORSE AND HOUND: Fayetteville, Ar., www.everythinghorseandhound.com

covertside half page

WINTER 2013 | 29

For

THE KIDS JOJO SOX TUFF CUFF PADDOCK BOOT SOCKS

$15.00 No joke… these paddock boot socks from JoJo Sox are the best invention ever. They are especially great for kids who not only ride in their paddock boots, but who run, play, muck, and go to school in their paddock boots. Why are these socks so awesome? Because they stay UP. The socks are eco-friendly and made in the U.S.A. Fun colors and designs that kids of all ages will love. www.jojosox.com

BREYER DELUXE WOOD BARN WITH CUPOLA

$253.76 Having this barn in your house is not a question of yes or no. It’s a question of exactly which accessories will you get to go with it. Heck, you don’t even need to have kids to buy this dream barn. Of course, if you do have them, it makes playing with it so much more convenient. Made of natural wood, this adorable 2-stall barn includes stall mats, built-in feed bins, sliding doors, hay loft, saddle and bridle racks and cross-tie area. Measures 30.5”L x 18.5”W x 21”H assembled. If it only came with an easykeeper field hunter and his companion pony, we’d be all set. www.breyerhorses.com

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The Red Fox in Art

– A masterful, comprehensive tribute to one of the great iconic animals of art and literature – a must-have book for all readers, collectors, and lovers of wildlife.

Trade edition • hard cover with dust jacket • 650 copies Both opulent, full-color editions, authored and curated by John Orrelle, are 11 x 11 inches with 360 pages, featuring nearly 300 paintings and sculpture.

Deluxe edition in slip case • 100 copies signed and numbered

Available at www.skagitriverpress.com 30 | COVERTSIDE

Cut to the chase

MUCK LIFE BRIMLIGHTS CAP

$32.95 One of our very own kids has this cap and uses it all the time.

Okay, so she uses it to stay up and read past her bedtime, in the dark, under the blankets, but we’re okay with that since it is reading, after all. Heck, this cap even came in handy during a recent storm when the power went out. It sure made getting around a 200-year-old farmhouse in the dark kind of fun! The lights are hidden under the brim and provide perfect light.

LCD batteries are replaceable and the cap is washable (take the batteries out first) in the top shelf of the dishwasher. www.themucklife.com

10 Savile Row, London W1S 3PF Regular US visits • Tel: +44 (0) 20 7287 2941 Email: info@dege-skinner.co.uk • www.dege-skinner.co.uk

WINTER 2013 | 31

covertside_spring13_Layout 1 22/01/2013 20:48 Page 1

HOOD ORNAMENTS L ouis L ejeune L td.

W ilburton E ly C ambs. CB6 3RA E NGLAND Tel : +44 1353 740444 www.louislejeune.com info@louislejeune.com

Allott Immigration Law Firm 303-797-8055 All Immigration Matters including Visas for Equestrians 2305 E. Arapahoe Road, # 100, Centennial, CO 80122 www.Allott.com 32 | Covertside

LILO COLLECTIONS DESOTO BRACELET

$37.95 What a great gift idea for that special teen-age girl in your life. Lilo Collections’ double braided bracelet is made from quality leather, and braided into a stylish accessory featuring a silver snaffle bit and cool magnetic buckle. The best part is that it comes in adorable, teenager-friendly colors like raspberry, pink, purple, and blue! www.bitofbritain.com

DARK HORSE CHOCOLATES

EQUESTRIA GROOMING KIT FOR KIDS

$56.95 For the pony-loving, horse-bug-bitten, well-behaved, adorable kid on your gift list, this 9-piece grooming kit is great for kids who plan to spend some time beautifying their ponies this winter.

Includes matching tote, body brush, dandy brush, flick brush, face brush, mane and tail brush, and mane comb. Also includes a hoof pick and sweat scraper. Hey, that’s a pretty good deal! www.equestriancollections.com

$29.95 A perennial favorite, this delicious and darling gift is a hit with chocolate lovers of all ages. Open one of the 25 doors on each of the 24 days before Christmas. Behind each door is a gold-foiled Dark Horse Chocolates treasure. On the 25th day, Christmas morning, a very special pony awaits. That is, if you can resist eating the entire thing the day it arrives. Ha! www.harborsweets.com

WINTER 2013 | 33

The View

The author, Brain Munn, and Louis, jumping wire during the first day of hunting in New Zealand.

Flying the Wire

IUHH delegates hunt with two packs on consecutive days in New Zealand

By Brian Munn | Photographs Lorraine Meagher, limelight photo

A

fter several days of meetings and seminars in New Zealand as part of the International Union of Hunting with Hounds gathering, it was time to experience how our Kiwi friends hunt. Our first meet was with the Rotorua and the Bay of Plenty hounds at a Maori Land Trust farm near Rerewhakaaitu. There is no tradition in New Zealand for hiring hunt horses so we were all mounted on hunters borrowed from hunt members. I met Hugh Fletcher, 34 | Covertside

who had kindly offered me his horse, Louis. I asked if he had any special tips on how to ride his horse.

“Just give him head” Hugh said “and you’ll have a great hunt on him.”

“That is the only way I know how to ride.”

He was by far the biggest horse in the field. My first problem would be mounting him. Someone suggested a ladder, but parachuting into the saddle seemed a more logical solution and had the added

advantage of being of further assistance if I should happen to fall off him. One thing was clear from the outset, I would not be getting down to open or close any gates.

After a welcoming speech from Master of the hunt David Meade, everyone mounted the immaculately turned out horses. The scene was really magnificent. More than eighty horses and riders were excitedly anticipating the first chase among steep, drumlinlike hills.

I was hacking along, some distance behind twelve and a half couple of neat, enthusiastic harrier hounds (halfway between a foxhound and a beagle). Moving toward the first draw, we encountered the first obstacle, a wire fence with a section in the middle about 10 feet wide that was a foot lower than the rest of the fence.

To make it even more inviting, the top strand was encased in a tube of black plastic. Hey, I thought, I can do this. Kids on ponies were hopping over

Horse Country

®

Holidays Begin at Horse Country

it easily. Some adults were trotting a few strides into it and sailing over with a foot to spare. Others were cantering into it, allowing their horses to let out a little steam. As I got closer and my turn was getting nearer, Louis started gathering himself for the jump. I picked up a little of my very loose rein, which Louis took as an indication that I wanted to canter. He would have been right, had there not been still a dozen or more mounted hunters ahead of me in the line. I was worried that this huge hulk of equine muscle would jump over a few other horses and riders. With three still ahead of me, I resorted to making contact with Louis’s mouth and held him a few yards behind the young lady on a bay horse ahead of me. The first two took the fence perfectly. The bay clipped the plastic tube making a terrible clatter, but landing safely on the far side. The plastic tube, however, found its own momentum and fluctuated vertically a foot either side of its designated height.

Louis meanwhile had effected take-off, much like a jumbo jet, some stride and a half earlier and before the plastic tube began its little wobble. Had I been on a regular horse, this might have been an issue, but Louis had allowed for a margin of error and took the small fence as if he were competing in a puissance. An extra yard in the height of a fence was not going to worry Louis.

Obviously, Louis’s capacity to negotiate this beautiful and potentially challenging New Zealand country did not require his pilot’s guidance, so I relaxed. Louis settled into

an easy motion of trotting and cantering along with the herd.

We jumped another six or seven wire fences and I quickly ascertained that they seemed to fall into three categories. The first was adequately described in the previous paragraph. The second was a line of vertical posts or wooden spindles about a foot apart, supporting rolls of sheep wire. Horses find these easier to jump because the ground line is clear as well as the height.

The third category was where a structure of wooden spars was built around the section of fence to be jumped. This was similar in principle to the coops we jump on many hunts throughout America though not so solid or inviting. Ivan Bridge advised me of a fourth category, which he described as full wire, which I gathered means there is no low section. Apparently we had not yet encountered one of these, but with my notoriously bad eyesight and Louis’s indifference to height I was unlikely to notice anyway. Whether I had him on the wrong leg or the wrong stride he sailed over everything without a single flaw.

You can probably tell that I am getting very fond of this big guy.

I glanced around at my fellow IUHH delegates to assess if they were as happy as I was, not that I was worried about them, as they are well able to look after themselves, but any little embarrassing moments among the elite of hunting dignitaries could add some spice to my story. Dennis Foster sped past me at mock speed hauling back on the reins, his face whiter than snow as he took the jump several feet higher than necessary. He continued that pattern for about eight jumps, completely out of control

(540) 347-3141 • 800-882-HUNT (4868) 60 Alexandria Pike • Warrenton, Virginia 20186 Store Hours: Monday–Friday 9 AM - 6 PM, Saturday 9 AM - 5 PM (ET) Visit us online! www.HorseCountryLife.com www.HorseCountryCarrot.com

www.Facebook.com/HorseCountryLife

The Moingona Hunt 3rd Annual Flint Hills Invitational 3 DAY PERFORMANCE TRIAL March 7,8,9, 2014

40,000+ acres near historic Council Grove, Kansas

Limited Field This is coyote country!

Contacts: David Sommers, MFH david.sommers@lpl.com (515) 240-0449

Ann Webber, MFH ann.webber@gmail.com (918) 625-0622 WINTER 2013 | 35

Hound moving off to cast during the first day of New Zealand hunting.

and only able to stop when there was a check, of which there wasn’t but one. Bad brakes were not going to deter Dennis’s enthusiasm, but fear for his life necessitated a change in horses at a check where Ivan Bridge gave Dennis his horse and took the runaway with a change in bits. Ivan’s horse was a machine and the grin on Dennis’s face said it all as he jumped everything in fine style and promised Ivan his first born.

Music from the pack suddenly focused my mind to the purpose of this excursion. We were hunting. The pace changed from leisurely to frantic in the blink of an eye. In this wonderful open country we could see the hounds work, listen to their

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a fence on either side then have to turn sharply to jump the wire on one side or the other. The first chase lasted about fifteen or twenty minutes. I did not see that hare, but the hounds were rarely out of sight and never beyond the range of my hearing.

When the music stopped I was glad to catch my breath.

The horses got a little breather, but not for long. A lead hound opened the next chorus and I looked up in time to get a clear view of the quarry, though I was not quick enough to acquire any photographic evidence. A minute later my great grey charger was at the gallop again seeking out new obstacles to soar over. We travelled further on this chase, though

still in circles as this allusive creature twisted and dodged his posse of harriers. Eighty or so passionate hunting folk were doing what they love to do.

Hounds were hunting well. In this sport you can’t manufacture a good day, but a huntsman still feels the pressure to deliver it.

Huntsman Tim Spetch can be proud of his hounds and his ability to hunt them.

Coming up to 3 o’clock, this diligent pack of hounds was just getting into their stride on the scent of their fourth hare.

Hounds took off again and I started after them. Louis was obviously fit as a fiddle, but he was not getting any encouragement from me. We ran in a loop of about a mile or so then

straight up a valley. I slowed the big guy to a trot and as other members of the field passed me with words of encouragement.

Foster passed me, still grinning.

I made the excuse that I would be hunting the same horse tomorrow and needed to save him. It was true that I would hunt Louis again the next day, but it wasn’t him that needed saving, it was me. Louis was awesome. Louis was King.

Visit: www.ecovertside.net for more on this adventure.

Brian Munn sat on the committee of the Irish MFHA for 10 years. He still sits on the committee in a PR capacity, although he now lives in New Jersey.

Producing field hunters with talent!

Concerto Grosso Approved 17 h. Holsteiner Stallion

2014 Stud Fee: $1200 ($900 to MFHA members)

Grosvenor & Rosemarie

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Photo by Gretchen Pelham

harmony and ride like the wind to try to keep up with them. I am reliving the experience as I tell it and am enjoying it anew.

As we galloped around the side of a hill, the pack was hunting as one, the field however, was following in groups, dispersed as much by route as distance. The wire fences provided endless variation. I remember jumping a line of fences. They came like hurdles, in quick succession. Several fences were made more tricky by having to jump while on a steep downward slope and still others were more daunting, because they crested a hilltop. The most difficult were those where we would turn through a gap into a narrow corridor lined by

Training - Sales Jumpers - Eventers Field Hunters

434-249-0310 Louisa, Virginia

www.virginiafieldhunters.com winter 2013 | 37

About Hounds Opening meet celebrates the community, the tradition and the hard work of the hounds and staff.

That’s Entertainment Showing the field a good time while hunting hounds is both an art and a science.

By Andrew Barclay | Photograph Adrian Jennings

B

y the time this issue arrives, most, if not all, of the packs in this country will have had their opening meets. This is one of the really special days of the season. In our country we will have cub hunted close to fifty times, so it’s not the novelty of hunting that makes it so special.

What is it then? I think that it is the knowledge of following a tradition hundreds of years old. It’s one of the days of the year when the old timers, both members and farmers, will come to the meet. It’s a day when the young and the old will share a part of history, when the community will have one common activity and all will hope for a nice day and good scent. It is when the hunt staff will be turned out in their best kit, on their best horses and with a pack of the best hounds in the kennels. Every year there will be someone who is experiencing their first opening meet, and unfortunately there will be someone experiencing their last. It really is special; even if the scent isn’t good, Masters and staff will see that everyone has a good time!

As the scarlet coats come out, the staff will take on a bit different attitude in the hunt field. All through autumn hunting their focus was on hounds, getting old 38 | Covertside

ones fit and getting a good start on the puppies. There was little consideration in planning the day for the field. If the field had fun it was a good thing, but if the hounds had a good day and puppies got a good whiff of game then it was a successful day.

Now that autumn hunting is over the field must be a big consideration. I remember when I was starting out in hunt service I read an article in the Chronicle of the Horse that stated that a huntsman must be part naturalist to read all the nuances of nature, a horse trainer, a dog trainer, a diplomat to deal with all the people, but that he also must be an entertainer. Up to this point I had not really considered that. I felt that we were in the hound training and hunting business but had not given much thought to the entertainment aspect. As Melvin Poe states in a wonderful video made in the late ’70s, “There are times when I feel like Bob Hope.”

Let the Fun Begin

The hunt staff have an audience, and they hope to produce a top grade day every time they go out.

There are many things that contribute to providing an entertaining day to the folks who pay their salary. The first is to have a well-

bred and well-trained pack of hounds. This is a 365 days-a-year project. It is achieved by working with the hounds every day in a consistent way. Things are kept to a schedule; the commands are the same for the same task day in and day out. It means that hounds get hunted at every opportunity during the season. Days should be missed only when it would be damaging to hounds or disturbing to landowners. If hounds get to hunt often they almost can’t help but to figure their jobs out.

Every year there are puppies to learn the job and they should get hunted every time hounds go out.

I would have mine into two, or at the most, three groups and every group would hunt at least once a week. My best would often get the worst country because I could trust them and my most difficult would often get to hunt the more open country. What this meant in my case was that often my difficult puppies would be hunted on Saturdays as we would save

the open country for the Saturday crowd. As one puppy proved trustworthy he would be moved into the trustworthy group, and likewise if one proved that my trust was misplaced he would go to the difficult group.

The Right Places

In order to achieve the most enjoyable days, the country must also be a consideration.

We were a three day a week pack during the regular season.

Our Tuesday fields were usually the folks who “rode to hunt.”

They were happy to go into rougher country and have those wonderful “wild and woolly” hunts. Thursdays and Saturdays we had a lot of “hunt to ride” people and we would try to give them the best parts of the country, drawing the best of it early in the day. If the foxes ran the right lines we could give the “run and jump” crowd a good time and they would go home happy after an hour or

two, then we could concentrate on hunting again. As the day would go on, scent usually got better and the diehards could be shown some great sport at the end of the day. For this to work out well we also had to make sure that the country was in good shape, trails maintained and jumps cleared and jumpable. This, too, is a full-time job and many hours must be spent on a tractor and with a brush axe to ensure that the field will be able to stay with hounds on a good run, no matter which way the game happens to take them.

THE RIGHT PEOPLE

The next aspect of a successful hunt is having the right personnel in place, from Masters to huntsman and whippers-in to kennelman and hunt secretary, all of whom work as a team to make every day’s hunting as enjoyable as possible for the members of the field. They must all work hard and to the best

of their ability and without any personal agenda or ego. There are times when I feel that the hounds are the easiest part of the day! A good field master can keep the masses entertained on a poor scenting day and take a lot of pressure off the staff when scent is difficult. Likewise a poor field master who isn’t able to keep up with hounds when they run well will not only take the fun out of the day for the field, but will make life very hard for the staff. I was a very lucky huntsman with several great field masters but I will admit that one of my favorites was a wonderful gentleman who didn’t have the greatest hearing. Because of this he had to keep me in sight and had to jump anything or go anyplace that I did. In the two years that he was field master I only lost him once and we sure did give the field a thrill or two.

The hunt secretary is an often neglected cog in the wheel. It is he/she that sees to it that releases are signed and caps collected, puts out notifications of changes or cancellations, deals with issues that the master can’t and keeps the coffers full. The wrong person here can keep the hounds from moving off promptly or cause issues that deter from the enjoyment of the day. If all work together and for the betterment of the sport than a good team is in place.

or free and all too often they are available because no one else can ride them. They come to the kennels as their last stop and if staff can get along with them, great. When I was getting ready to retire as a huntsman people would often ask me what I would miss the most and I would answer, “Sitting on a good horse with hounds in full cry and a bunch of line fences in front of me.” When they would ask what I’d miss least I would answer “Sitting on a bad horse with hounds in full cry and a bunch of line fences in front of me.” The longevity of good staff has a direct correlation with the caliber of horse they are given to do the job! These men and women work hard and risk their necks every day that they hunt, and a good horse is an essential tool to get the job done. If you have any say in the matter please

see to it that they get the right tools for the job.

HONOR AND FUN

As we get to the holidays please remember your professional staff. This is a time of year where you can easily express your appreciation for the year-round work they do to provide you with enjoyment. A Christmas envelope from field members is a tradition that staff appreciates.

They spend long hours and miss a lot of family time in order to provide you with good sport. A little thank you is greatly appreciated and comes in really handy at holiday time.

I wish everyone a happy holiday with good scent and great going!

Andrew Barclay is the author of “Letters to a Young Huntsman,” and runs the Professional Develoment Program for MFHA.

THE RIGHT HORSE

Another key part of the equation of entertaining the field are the staff horses. If a huntsman is well mounted he not only can stay with his hounds but will also tend to be in better spirits and more relaxed. While most huntsmen enjoy a horse that is keen and ready to go, they don’t necessarily enjoy one who is keen but not clever about his job. All too often staff must rely on horses that are inexpensive WINTER 2013 | 39

about horses Lynden Godsoe, Priscilla’s sister, takes Cause of Freedom out for a hack. Foxhunter, jumper, trail horse: Cause of Freedom has the mind and athleticism for all disciplines.

Linked by Blood Derby winner Orb’s half-sibling proves good blood makes a racehorse and a foxhunter.

By Glenye Cain Oakford | Photographs Courtesy of Priscilla Godsoe

R

iver Hills Joint Master Duncan Patterson and Priscilla Godsoe, a young show-jumping trainer and foxhunter in Pennsylvania, had a couple of special reasons to watch the Kentucky Derby this year: Cause of Freedom and Well Well.

40 | Covertside

Cause of Freedom is a sevenyear-old former racehorse that Patterson and Godsoe co-owned before selling him to a Maryland foxhunter this summer — and he’s also a half-brother to this year’s Derby winner, Orb. The two horses are out of the same mare, Lady Liberty, and by different sires. Orb is by Malibu

Moon and Cause of Freedom is

by Alphabet Soup.

Well Well, Godsoe’s retired show hunter and foxhunting partner, also has a close connection to Orb. In his current job as racehorse trainer Shug McGaughey’s stable pony, Well Well is Orb’s regular companion during morning training.

Godsoe, 26, says the common denominator is Patterson.

He’s the father of Jenn Patterson, an assistant trainer and exercise rider for Orb’s trainer, McGaughey. McGaughey also trained Cause of Freedom from September 2008 until April 2012, and Jenn Patterson was his exercise rider, too.

“She really loved him,” said Godsoe, who owns The Covert Farm. “He’s like a giant pony, really. He has the greatest personality. She singled him out when she galloped him and knew that she wanted to make sure he got a second career.”

The Pattersons made what Duncan called “a half-hearted effort” to sell Cause of Freedom as a steeplechaser. Having no takers, Duncan sent him to Godsoe.

Patterson sent Cause of Freedom — nicknamed Fernando — to Godsoe as a hunt and show prospect. “I thought he knew how to jump, but he didn’t have a clue,” Godsoe said of their first ride together. “But I poked him around over the jumps, took him out and jumped some logs.

That’s his character: anything you go do with him, he’s happy to go do. Whatever you want, he’s going to figure it out.”

Cause of Freedom’s hunting debut was last fall with River Hills, where Godsoe is a whipper-in.

“What I look for in a whip’s horse is something that has the stamina to keep going and is attentive and looking out for holes, if need be,” Godsoe said.

Cause of Freedom jumps with enthusiasm and athleticism. Despite a mediocre racing career, he’s excelling as a sport horse post-racing.

Cause of Freedom showed plenty of speed and smarts for his new job, as well as jumping ability. But it was his mind that really impressed Godsoe.

“You need a horse that can gallop all day and when you ask them to pull up, they’ll just stand there,” Godsoe said. “That’s the really cool thing about him. You can ask him to do a job, and when you pull him up, he’s all business, even if that means he’s just standing there waiting for the next cue. He’s into what you’re thinking and into what you’re doing.”

“The first time she hunted him he went really well,” recalled Patterson. “I usually take the field when I’m out and Priscilla is normally the whipper-in, but the second time she hunted him, we had guests. So Priscilla took the field with him, and he went great.”

Patterson recalls one day in particular that he felt revealed Cause of Freedom’s cool-headedness.

“She was whipping-in, and hounds were going out of country,” Patterson said. “She had no choice but to fire her pistol to turn them. I was across the field, and I watched her put her gun up and shoot it off, and he just stood there. We thought, ‘This is an amazing horse.’”

When she wasn’t hunting,

Godsoe competed Cause of Freedom in some shows, and took advantage of The Jockey Club’s Thoroughbred Incentive Program. Cause of Freedom collected some ribbons in jumping classes.

“He’s just a cool dude,” said Godsoe. “He does anything that you ask of him. He had a really quick introduction to hunter shows, jumper shows, foxhunting, you name it. He’s been awesome.”

In the meantime, Godsoe’s former show-ring partner, Well Well, had made a transition in the opposite direction, from shows and hunt field back to where he had started his career: the racetrack.

The 17-year-old gelding had run until he was five and won just one of his 14 starts but managed to earn $18,800 before retiring from the racetrack and becoming Godsoe’s regular mount.

Their 12-year partnership in the hunt field and show ring ended when Well Well began to go blind in one eye. Godsoe sent Well Well to Patterson, first as a babysitter for yearlings, then as a racetrack pony.

“I knew he was going to be a pony, but I had no idea he was going to be at that level,” said Godsoe. “I didn’t know he was right up there with the best horses they have until I saw the pictures of him with Orb.” Interestingly, when he was considering sending Well Well to McGaughey as a stable pony, Patterson and his wife tried him out by letting him pony one of the horses that was on their farm then: Orb’s half-brother Cause of Freedom. “Cause of Freedom was jumping and playing, because he hadn’t done anything for a while, and Well Well was just great,” Patterson said. “He

was basically Orb’s buddy during the Triple Crown.”

Godsoe was on her way home from a horse show on May 4, Kentucky Derby Day. But she pulled off at an Applebee’s restaurant to root for Cause of Freedom’s younger half-brother, Orb. “Obviously, we were all dying to see what would happen,” she said. “I didn’t know where Orb was at first. He almost seemed like he was dead last, and it was hard to tell what was happening.

My first thought was he wasn’t even a contender. Next thing you know, he started to come around, and of course we were all jumping up and down and shouting.”

Cause of Freedom was a decent runner himself. He won three times and earned more than $105,000 in purses. But today he’s more famous as a talented hunt horse and jumper

— and as Orb’s half-sibling.

“He certainly became a local celebrity,” Patterson said.

But to both Patterson and Godsoe, it’s all just more proof of what off-the-track Thoroughbreds can do after they retire from racing. Patterson’s current hunt horse, Valay Pass, is a former course-record-setter who made 64 starts (and won seven) before turning to the hunt field.

“They’re athletic, they have a good turn of foot, and their stride is generally very comfortable to sit on,” Patterson said.

“And they’re a little bit more spirited. But I’ve always hunted Thoroughbreds,” he added, “and I’ve always said that when I can’t hunt a Thoroughbred, I’m giving up hunting.”

Glenye Cain Oakford is a member of the Iroquois, and author of “Home Run Horse.”

Custom Hunt Bridles By ridgely davis

Call for Yours

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Anne Litz Photography

WINTER 2013 | 41

Photo courtesy Charles Owen

Practical Foxhunter

The H2000 is designed to look traditional, and has the highest safety standards

Sticks and Stones

Covertside takes a look at the latest in protective gear for our most critical body parts.

By Susan Hoffman

W

e foxhunters take our attire quite seriously. It must be tasteful, functional and adhere to tradition out of respect for our sport’s history and for our own safety. Taking this thought one stride further, if safety itself is at the root of our traditional garb, then improvements in personal protection should be welcome additions to our hunt attire, even if some items don’t look exactly like what is depicted in an Alfred Munnings painting. Wearing the latest in protective gear is a smart idea for any foxhunter, not just the old, the young and the inexperienced, because the extra measure of safety can literally reduce the impact of a

42 | Covertside

UFD (unplanned flying dismount) and possibly prevent a seasonending injury.

Good-Looking Performance Helmets

It’s becoming more common to see ASTM/SEI certified helmets in the hunt field, and there are streamlined options that offer the benefit of newer safety standards without making you look like a “bubble head.” Velvet, microfiber suede and even leather-like materials maintain the time-honored look of traditional hunt caps, while ventilated styles afford aerated comfort during late-summer cubbing season and for hunts located in southern climes.

Above all else, the fit is of primo importance. A new helmet should start out feeling a bit snug and have a consistent tightness all the way around your head with no extreme points of discomfort or loose gaps. Grab the rim and try to move the helmet around — it should not rock forward, backward or sideways. It should also sit one finger’s width above your eyebrows with the harness fastened, and you should be able to slide two fingers from ear to ear with the harness buckle closed. Every head shape is unique, so be prepared to try on many manufacturers’ models and sizes. And for the lady hunter, be aware that your hairstyle can af-

fect helmet fit, so if you normally imprison your locks in a braid or barrette while in the hairnet, then wear your hair that way when you try on a new helmet.

Your new helmet will last longer and look its best if you treat it like any other piece of important tack. Wipe off any perspiration after your ride and allow your helmet to air out in a cool, dry place overnight. Do the same if your helmet gets caught in a rainstorm or takes an accidental swim in water. And, while a toasty fire is great for revitalizing you after a long hunt, it’s not good for your helmet.

Roy Burek, managing director and head of design at Charles Owen, said, “Even if your helmet is damp, never dry or store it in extreme heat or in direct sunlight. For velvet or microfiber suede helmet exteriors, let splattered mud and dirt dry out, then remove it the next morning using a stiff brush.

Clean dried mud on leather-look helmets using a damp sponge.”

Burek advised using a little spritz of helmet cleaner and/or deodorizer on your helmet’s inside lining to keep the interior clean, smelling fresh and ready for your next hunt. And, never place a helmet with a damp or soaked exterior or interior in an airtight bag.

Helmet materials eventually wear out from body heat and the proverbial ravages of time, so even a well-fitting helmet may start to loosen up and/or look a little shopworn after a few years. And, while there’s no end to the creative jerry-rigging some people use to salvage an old helmet, at some point in time you’ll need to part with your trustworthy protection.

“Consider replacing your helmet every five years or so,” Burek said.

“You should always replace your helmet if you have a fall where the helmet comes into contact with the ground or another hard object.

It is especially important to get a

new helmet if you lose consciousness or have a very bad headache.

Replacement is also recommended if you drop your helmet on a hard surface, as you could cause damage to the inside protective layers.”

PROTECTING THE CHEST CAVITY

The old saying, “The hardest thing about riding is the ground,” rings particularly true for foxhunters. Riding at breakneck speed over natural and often rockhard terrain is bound to hurt, or worse, if you take a tumble. Yet many foxhunting clubs and a fair number of riders have difficulty accepting the use of body protectors to help cushion the impact.

To the naysayers, Covertside reminds you that new technology in our sport has often met with resistance until “everyone is doing it.” (Examples: trailering to meets, communicating on walkie-talkies, wearing zippered boots) Body protectors are designed to protect the thorax, upper abdominal organs, spine and neck collar by absorbing high levels of energy upon impact. Eventers were the first to embrace body protectors, which are now compulsory for most competitions. And, simply wearing a body protector helps many riders feel safer so they can ride with confidence — always a good thing in the hunt field!

The initial models were a bit bulky and stiff but proved their mettle by preventing or lessening torso injuries. Over the years, manufacturers have been perfecting both the comfort and effectiveness. Today’s body protectors use softer panels, are more body-contoured and flexible, are lighter in weight and include features such as water-wicking material and custom colors.

The latest innovation in body protectors is a hybrid protection garment that combines the

physical protection of body vest construction with inflatable air bags that help cushion the fall. A lanyard attached to the vest and saddle is triggered when the rider separates from the saddle, inflating the air bags in a fraction of a second. The bags remain inflated for a few seconds, then gradually deflate, allowing for full freedom of movement and flexibility.

Point Two Air Vests makes “Hunter” model, which is very similar to the popular “Pro-Air” model that event riders are wearing. The Hunter is a more fitted jacket with a zipper instead of buckles and no logos, which is more suitable for the hunt field.

They are offered in three colors, navy blue, black and scarlet.

A growing number of manufacturers are jumping on the body protector band wagon, so choose your vest with the same care as you would in choosing any other high-quality riding apparel. “It’s important to buy a vest that is warranteed by the manufacturer and that can be returned for service, particularly after a bad fall,” said Lee Middleton, managing director for Point Two Air Vests. If you’ve taken several bad falls, Middleton suggests having your vest serviced.

All Point Two Air Vests come with a lifetime guarantee/warranty. Should you be unfortunate enough to tear your airbag, Point Two will replace the airbag while it is being serviced. You can extend the service life of your body protector by giving it the same care as your other hunt equipment. Let it dry out overnight; wipe off sweat with a damp sponge, and knock off dirt with a stiff brush.

Safety in the hunt field has always been top of mind. The growth of options in personal safety attire, including helmets and vests, can add a little peace of mind while not diminishing any of the excitement.

Vital protection from a vest that inflates in the blink of an eye.

WINTER 2013 | 43

Cinema

Honoring a Legend “Good Night Ladies” portrays the charismatic Mrs. Hannum

N

ancy Hannum, MFH, of Mr. Stewart’s Cheshire Foxhounds, was a legend. Her contributions to the sport and land conservation will last far into the future. Now, Hannum’s granddaughter, Christy Hannum, has created a remarkable film that isn’t just about one of the most famous, admired and knowledgeable foxhunters in modern times, but is a treatise on foxhunting.

This beautiful and accurate film covers Hannum’s life over 50 years. It is laced with personal insights only someone very close to our sport could know. Christy captures all of Mrs. Hannum’s charisma. Mrs. Hannum was always her own person. She was opinionated, brilliant, gutsy, charming, “Christy Hannum has created a truly remarkable film that isn’t just about one of the most famous, admired and knowledgeable foxhunters in modern times, but a treatise on the sport of foxhunting.”

— Dennis Foster, Ex. Dir., MFHA

stubborn, and assertive with an attention to detail like no other.

Of the literally hundreds of huntsmen, whippers-in and Masters I interviewed when writing my book “Whipper-in,” she was without question the most articulate, knowledgeable and enthusiastic foxhunter.

She captivated and mesmerized me with her knowledge and stories (see Covertside, Summer 2010 edition).

Christy Hannum uncovered foxhunting films of the Mr. Stewart’s Cheshire Foxhounds and Mrs. Hannum that most of us would die to have. The beautiful color film clips and pictures imbue the movie with action and excitement.

She located vintage archival footage of Cheshire from the 1930s and restored it to save for genA Swim Pictures Production

1. Publication Title: Covertside 2. Publication Number: 021-771

6. Annual Subscription Price: $20.00

BY CHRISTIANNA HANNUM MILLER

Cinematographer, DAVID W. LEITNER • Editor, RAY HUBLEY

Animation, EMILY HUBLEY

Soundtrack includes music by ALISON KRAUSS and NICKEL CREEK Goodnight Ladies is a 37-minute film that tells the story of Nancy Penn Smith Hannum, world renown Master of Foxhounds and legendary equestrienne. $30.00 includes shipping For a copy of Goodnight Ladies, please email swimpics@aol.com with Goodnight Ladies in the subject line.

44 | Covertside

erations to come. Coupled with a lively sound track and a humorous narration, the film moves on quickly. It’s a serious foxhunter’s must see, a novice foxhunter’s education and perfect entertainment for your non-foxhunting friends.

Contact swimpics@aol.com or send a check for $28 to Swim Pictures, 500 West Linden Street, Kennett Square, PA 19348.

(Published in accordance with 707.8.3, Domestic Mail Manual)

5. Number of Issues Published Annually: 4

A DOCUMENTARY FILM

Nancy Smith Hannum, MFH, is the subject of a new documentary produced by her granddaughter, Christy Hannum.

U.S. Postal Service Statement of Ownership, Management, and Circulation

3. Filing Date: 11/6/2013 4. Issue Frequency: Quarterly

Goodnight Ladies

Photo coutesy Swimpics Films

reviewed By Dennis Foster

7. Mailing Address of Publication: Masters of Foxhounds Association, P.O. Box 363, Millwood, VA 22646 8. Mailing Address of Head quarters: Same as 7 9. Names of Publisher, Editor, and Managing Editor: Publisher and Editor: Emily Esterson, 2329 Lakeview Road.

SW, Albuquerque, NM 87105, Managing Editor: Same

Owner: Masters of Foxhounds Association, P.O. Box 363, Millwood, VA 22646 11. Known Bondholders, Mortgagees, and Other Securities Holders Owning or Holding 1 Percent or More of Total Amount of Bonds, Mortgages, or Other Securities: None 12. Tax Status: 501(c)4 13. Publication Title: Covertside 14. Issue Date for Circulation Data Below: Fall, 2013

15. Extent and Nature of Circulation:

Average No. Copies Each Issue Preceding 12 Months

No. Copies of Single During Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date

a. Total Number of Copies b. Paid Circulation (1) Mailed Outside by Other Classes of Mail c. Total Paid Distribution d. Free or Nominal Rate Distribution (1) Outside County (2) In-County (3) Mailed at Other Classes via USPS (4) Outside the Mail e. Free or Nominal Rate Distribution f. Total Distribution g. Copies not Distributed h. Total i. Percent Paid

7082

7513

6035 6035

6136 6136

298 0 0 0 298 6333 250 6583 95%

1127 0 0 0 1127 7263 250 7513 84%

16. This Statement of Ownership will be printed in the Winter 2013 issue of this publication.

17. Signature and Title of Editor: Emily Esterson, Editor, November 11, 2013

Master’s Dinner, Annual Meeting and Masters’ Ball Return to

New York

ANNUAL MEMBERS MEETING/SEMINAR When: January 24, 2014 at 9am Where: Union Club Cost: No charge Details: Must be a current subscribing member (jacket & tie required)

NEW MASTER’S LUNCH & SEMINAR (invitations will be sent) When: January 23, 2014 at 12pm Where: The Pierre Cost: A chance for new Masters to meet the MFHA Board of Directors. Seminar will begin immediately following lunch and will be led by past MFHA Presidents and Masters not on the Board.

Keynote Speaker - Mr. Nick Pinizzotto, USSA President

MASTER’S DINNER When: January 23, 2014, Cocktails at 7pm, Dinner at 8pm Where: Union Club Cost: $275/pp Details: Masters and ex-Masters only

MASTERS’ BALL When: January 24,2014, Cocktails at 7pm, Dinner at 8pm Where: The Pierre Cost: $275/pp Details: Must be a current subscribing member For more information, please contact Suzy Reingold at (212) 245-7114

For additional information and to make your reservations online, visit www.mfha.org/shop-janmtg.html

LISTEN UP!!

“YOU MUST HAVE A COPY.

HAVE YOU PURCHASED YOUR COPY YET?

Not only is it a great work but you are probably in it!”

—MASON LAMPTON, MFH

The Centennial View features all the hunts in North America SUPPLIES ARE LIMITED

ORDER TODAY To place your order: VISIT www.mfha.org and click ‘SHOP’ CALL (540) 955-5680 EMAIL office@mfha.com

“Chock full of glorious art and photographs.”

—MARTHA WOODHAM

WINTER 2013 | 45

Adrian Jennings

flask

The Great Covertside Sip-off Covertside received a good many entries for our flask contest. They came by email, Facebook and website. You sent us poems and photos, and concoctions both mild and hair-raising. We couldn’t taste them all for fear of pickling ourselves. For more recipes and the stories behind them, check out the November edition of ecovertside.net. We start off with a poem:

Or just something to comfort you on a cold morn’ This rhyming recipe will have you sing’in with the hounds While the Huntsman blows the horn

What’s in my flask you ask?

Well.....I’ll tell you no lie It’s an old family favorite Every mounted rider should try Whether you need the courage to jump a coop Give a “tally-ho” whoop

Just combine....1 of sour, 2 of sweet, 3 of strong, 4 of weak

Whatever you prefer, use a good bourbon or rum That’s how we do it, down on the Chesapeake It’s a very handy “rule of thumb”

Delish Traditional • 60% tawny port • 40% chocolate vodka

— Leslie Richwine, De La Brooke Foxhounds

—Darlene A. Wiessmann Sussex NJ

Save t he Da te!

! e t a D e h t e v Sa

Staff Seminar

2014

The Biennial Staff Seminar is coming: April 12th and 13th Griffin Gate Marriott, Lexington, KY

education for all, product expos, tours 46 | Covertside

Adrian Jennings

flask

The Great Covertside Sip-off Covertside received a good many entries for our flask contest. They came by email, Facebook and website. You sent us poems and photos, and concoctions both mild and hair-raising. We couldn’t taste them all for fear of pickling ourselves. For more recipes and the stories behind them, check out the November edition of ecovertside.net. We start off with a poem:

Or just something to comfort you on a cold morn’ This rhyming recipe will have you sing’in with the hounds While the Huntsman blows the horn

What’s in my flask you ask?

Well.....I’ll tell you no lie It’s an old family favorite Every mounted rider should try Whether you need the courage to jump a coop Give a “tally-ho” whoop

Just combine....1 of sour, 2 of sweet, 3 of strong, 4 of weak

Whatever you prefer, use a good bourbon or rum That’s how we do it, down on the Chesapeake It’s a very handy “rule of thumb”

Delish Traditional • 60% tawny port • 40% chocolate vodka

— Leslie Richwine, De La Brooke Foxhounds

—Darlene A. Wiessmann Sussex NJ

Save t he Da te!

! e t a D e h t e v Sa

Staff Seminar

2014

The Biennial Staff Seminar is coming: April 12th and 13th Griffin Gate Marriott, Lexington, KY

education for all, product expos, tours 46 | Covertside

Mooreland Tradition In a 16 oz. flask, mix • 4 oz sugar • 4 oz concentrated lemon juice • 5 oz Whiskey-the brand can vary but Old Crow goes well • 3 oz water —Jack and David Goodman The Mooreland Hunt

The Bam

Bi-Coastal

• 3 Parts brandy • 1 part amaretto

• 1/2 Jameson Irish Whiskey •1/2 Baileys regular Irish Crème —Cathy Evans Red Rock Hounds in Nevada and Amwell Valley Hounds in New Jersey

—Kathy Keelan Pew, Battle Creek Hunt, Michigan

The Bartender Toronto and North York Favorite

Rusty Nail

• 2 oz Citrus Vodka (you can use regular vodka but you may want to add 1 tbsp of freshly squeezed lemon juice)

• 1/2 vodka • 1/2 drambuie —Ed Mitchell

Fox Blood Best fence lowerer ever invented.

• 2/3 Tawny port

• 2 tbsp Cointreau (or Triple Sec if you don’t have any Cointreau on hand) • 2 tbsp Galliano • 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice • 8 oz Cranberry Cocktail —Carolyn Lane Toronto and North York Hunt

• 1/3 brandy —William F. Stack, DVM

The Sweet

Red Mountain Winner • Disaronno Amaretto

• 1 part peach schnapps

• Kahlua

• 3 parts vanilla spice moonshine (Catdaddy Moonshine)

• Bailey’s Irish Cream

—Meredith Somerset, DVM The Camden Hunt

(My flask holds 3/4 of a cup, so I use 1/4 cup of each.)

—Greg Hoit, Red Mountain Hounds

winter 2013 | 47

LAST RUN OF THE DAY Photograph by Adrian Jennings

First Flight

Mooreland Hunt’s Jake VanBeukering was about to head out on his first ever first-flight hunt and was feeling a little intimidated so his dad, Mike, took a few moments to give him a pep talk.

—Adrian Jennings

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 48 | COVERTSIDE

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7408 John Marshall Hwy > Marshall, VA 20115 540.364.1891

ATOKA PROPERTIES www.atokaproperties.com Office: 540.338.7770 Fax: 540.338.2248 MIDDLEBURG REAL ESTATE www.middleburgrealestate.com Office: 540.687.6321 Fax: 540.687.3966

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7573 PATRICKSWELL LN

DRESDEN FARM

7112 ROCK HILL MILL RD

Fantastic opportunity. Rarely available large parcel. 296 Acres.

Zoned RA. Potential Easement Credit. Main Stucco Home plus 3 tenant houses. Large Pond. This is 3 separate parcels, 6071-096237, 6071-28-8393, 6072-00-7650 FQ7949197 $6,364,000 Peter Pejacsevich 540-270-3835 Scott Buzzelli 540-454-1399

This beautifully maintained 115 acre horse farm includes a circa 1785 5 bedroom main house, a 12 stall Belmont barn with 8 paddocks, heated waterers, a new generator and a separate tack room. There are 4 additional dwellings (including newly renovated manager’s house and guest house), extensive greenhouses, gardens, a pool, and a 5 acre pond. LO7610514 $4,900,000 Peter Pejacsevich 540-270-3835 Scott Buzzelli 540-454-1399

Windamere is located in the hart of Orange County Hunt territory. The farm offers beautiful rolling pastures - two ponds 7 stall barn and a fully restored Manor House. This private setting features great mountain views. FQ8111344 $3,100,000 Peter Pejacsevich 540-270-3835 Scott Buzzelli 540-454-1399

40850 ROBIN CIR

21242 BEAVERDAM BRIDGE RD

18781 FOGGY BOTTOM

Custom-built stone, brick, and cedar estate on 3.54 acres w/ features and amenities ideal for life style full of entertaining, leisure, & enjoyment. Special features include heated indoor pool, a sports pub, a regulation racquetball court with hoop, audio/ video system w/ 2 home theaters, rooftop deck, picnic pavilion w/ gas barbecue, potting shed, 2+ 2-car garages, & caretaker apartment. LO8175796 $1,765,000 Peter Pejacsevich 540-270-3835 Scott Buzzelli 540-454-1399

“Copperstone” is a beautiful custom stone and stucco home on 9.38 acres. 4 bedrooms, 5 1/2 bathrooms. Main level bedroom, a custom kitchen with granite and a breakfast bar. Custom bookshelves, 4 fireplaces, 3 car detached garage with an upstairs apartment (full bath). HUGE finished basement, whole house generator, an amazing porch off of the master suite, a pool, and minutes to Middleburg and Purcellville. LO8169923 $1,600,000 Ted Zimmerman 540-905-5874

Custom all brick ranch with amazing views. Spacious open floor plan with over 6,000 sq/ft of finished space. Listing includes two other lots totaling 50+ acres. tax ID #s 634263526000 & 634256954000. Large new barn/ man cave for all your toys. LO8092159 $1,500,000 Peter Pejacsevich 540-270-3835 Scott Buzzelli 540-454-1399

23085 PANTHERSKIN LANE

OLD BUST HEAD RD

9687 CONDE RD

Spacious brick house w/roof top OBSERVATORY in private setting . Large master suite w/ lots of closets. Family room w/ fireplace connects to open kitchen. Large mud room and 4 car garage w/ work benches. Finished lower level w/ in-law suite includes BR, Liv w/fireplace, media room and several work rooms. Pond. Mint condition. LO8105401 $1,299,000 Peter Pejacsevich 540-270-3835 Bundles Murdock 540-454-3499

22 Acre Estate. Main Level Master w/luxurious MB & Walk-in Closet. Center Aisle 15 Stall Barn w/Double Wash Rack. 2 Tack Rms, Indoor & Outdoor rings. Run-in Sheds, 9 Paddocks. Work Shop w/Full Ba,& Equip Shed. $1,299,000 FQ8176289 Joy Thompson 540-729-3428

19744 RIDGESIDE RD, BLUEMONT, VA

15933 CHARTER HOUSE LN PURCELLVILLE

Completely renovated Custom built Cedar Log Home that incorporates local Reclaimed wood. Private upstairs office. 4 stall center aisle barn, tack room,wash stall,feed room. Auto water in stalls&fields. 100x180 Bluestone/rubber ring w/irrigation system. Run Ins. Black board fencing. 36x24 Workshop. Pond!! Incredible stone patio w/ VIEWS!! Easy access to both Rt7 &Rt50 & Middleburg/Upperville area... $1,100,000 LO8166221 Marcy Cantatore 540-533-7453

EQUESTRIAN DELIGHT 16+ Gorgeous Acres. 5 Stall Show Barn, Riding Ring, Run In Shed. 4 Bdr, 3.5 Ba, 5600+ Sq Ft Spacious Living. Gourmet Kitchen, FR w Beautiful Stone FP. Basement with Rec Rm, Extra Rm, Full Bath. Gorgeous Wine Cellar, Wood Bar, Exercise Room. $990,000 LO8120096 Joy Thompson 540-729-3428

MAGNIFICENT VIEWS! 5 bedrms (2 main flr bedrooms(1 Master suite), state of art gourmet kit w/Miele & Wolf Appl, 43x13 granite island, custom cabinetry, 3 fpl, heated pool w/ hot tub/waterfall, 4 stall barn, run-in shed, 6 paddocks, extensive fencing, 4 car gar, 2 PONDS (l partial ownership) Min to I-66. FQ8200839- $1,250,000 Peter Pejacsevich 540-270-3835 Scott Buzzelli 540-454-1399 544 TILTHAMMER MILL RD

With beautiful views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this home is located on a 20 acre parcel. The ranch style brick house, with 4 bedrooms and 3 baths, was built in 2007. With a large kitchen, spacious dining room, a covered porch, patio and a guest house, it is perfect for entertaining. CL8055171 $980,000 Peter Pejacsevich 540-270-3835 Scott Buzzelli 540-454-1399

115 NORTH 21ST STREET PURCELLVILLE VA | 10 E. WASHINGTON STREET MIDDLEBURG, VA