In & Around Horse Country Holiday 2017 by Marion Maggiolo

VOLUME XXIX / NUMBER 5 • THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE VIRGINIA STEEPLECHASE ASSOCIATION • HOLIDAY 2017

Casanova Hunt Opening Meet

Casanova Green, Casanova, Virginia October 21, 2017 Douglas Lees Photos

OPENING MEETS

The Reverend James H. Cirillo, Grace Episcopal Church, Casanova, Virginia, performs the Blessing of the Hounds.

Jeanne Fendley Clark, MFH and Honorary Whipper-in.

Warrenton Hunt Opening Meet

Casanova Huntsman Tommy Lee Jones bringing hounds in to the kennels at Weston at the end of Opening Meet.

November 4, 2017

Masters of the Warrenton Hunt (VA) lead the field on Opening Day, November 4, 2017, from the Kennels at Elway. (l-r) K.T. Akins, MFH; James C. Elkins, MFH; Celeste Vella, MFH; Kimbrough Nash, MFH. Douglas Lees photo

Blue Ridge Hunt Opening Meet, Long Branch, Boyce, Virginia November 11, 2017

Warrenton Huntsman Matt van der Woude with his daughter Lexi. Michael Stevens photo

Belle Meade Hunt Opening Meet Thomson, Georgia, November 4, 2017

Joanne Maisano Photos

Belle Meade Hunt’s masters and staff walk their pack of Crossbred hounds up for the annual Blessing of the Hounds before moving off for the day’s sport. Michael Williams in fine form over a Blue Ridge coop.

(l-r) Porter Ashby and Jo Hunt enjoy some refreshments on Blue Ridge Hunt’s Opening Day.

(l-r) Ann Watkins and Liz Callar. Welcome back, Liz!

Allison Howell, DVM Images

On Belle Meade Hunt’s Opening Day in Thomson, Georgia, Epp Wilson, MFH and Huntsman (center) leaves the meet following the Blessing of the Hounds flanked by honorary whippers-in (l-r) Barbara Lee, Catherine Arensman, Lucy Bell, and Terry Cooper. Allison Howell, DVM Images

IN & AROUND HORSE COUNTRY • HOLIDAY 2017

REMEMBRANCE

Benjamin H. Hardaway III, MFH 1919-2017

Benjamin H. Hardaway passed away on October 19, less than a month after celebrating his 98th birthday. Hardaway served as living proof the hunting gene exists in human DNA. He certainly possessed drive, and no doubt many enthusiasts remember his cry when Midland hounds were all on and singing their distinctive July hound-inspired chorus. His name is recognizable throughout the hunting world and his legacy will live on with cry, drive, and biddability in the Hardaway Crossbred Foxhound. A passion for foxhounds and ars venatica made him a man with an enthusiastic mission, which led to him founding the Midland Fox Hounds in 1950 with territory around the home base in Columbus, Georgia, with additional country in Alabama. The advent of deer in his hunting country in 1966 prompted him to develop the Hardaway Crossbred. “It was a necessity—do something or quit hunting,” recalled Mr. Hardaway. “July hounds gave me the greatest thrill and my goal was to keep that cry and that nose, but cross him out so he would be biddable enough to break off deer,” said Mr. Hardaway. “That’s what I spent the rest of my life doing. I’m proud of what I’ve done. We’ve sent our Crossbreds to England, Ireland, Australia—all over.” Mr. Hardaway gave up riding to hounds in 1994 after breaking several bones in a fall, but he continued to follow by truck for many years. While recuperating from his accident, he wrote and self-published his autobiography Never Outfoxed: The Hunting Life of Benjamin H. Hardaway III. “I don’t know why, but there was something in me,” said Mr. Hardaway. “I knew in my guts that I was going to foxhunt.” He was the Joint Master of the Midland Fox Hounds; Past President of the Masters of Foxhounds Association of America; Director of the American Foxhound Club; Vice President of the Georgia Wildlife Federation; Race Committee Member, Atlanta Hunt Meeting & Steeplechase, Inc.; Member of the U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance; and Past President of the Georgia-Florida Field Trial Club. He was made an Honorary Member of the Masters of Foxhounds Association of England for his expertise in the breeding of foxhounds, and received the Julian Marshall Award from Mrs. Marshall and Terry Griffin in June 2003 from the Bryn Mawr Hound Show Association. Mr. Hardaway grew up in Hardaway, FL, and Columbus, GA. In 2009, he was inducted in the Huntsmen’s Room at the Museum of Hounds & Hunting NA. He attended the 16th Street School and Columbus High School and graduated from the Virginia Military Institute with a B.S. in Civil Engineering in 1940. Mr. Hardaway served during World War II in the Armored Cavalry as aide to General Manton S. Eddy, achieving the rank of Major. He was awarded the Bronze Star and the Silver Star. Mr. Hardaway was active in business, sports, and civic life of Columbus. He was Chairman of the Board of the Hardaway Company, which built bridges, dams, and roads. He was a member of the St. Paul United Methodist Church and served on the Columbus, Georgia, School Board. He was a member of the Board of Directors of Saint Francis Hospital. Mr. Hardaway was a long-time supporter of Brookstone School and donated a new track to Hardaway High School. He also served as a member of the Board of Directors of Royal Crown Cola. In 2010 he was inducted into the Chattahoochee Valley Sports Hall of Fame. His family and friends will remember him as a fun-loving man with a sharp sense of humor and a vivid, hilarious way of telling a story. He took his responsibilities to his family, business, and community very seriously while being a generous host and the life of many a party. He never lost his boundless enthusiasm for living. Survivors include his daughters Page Hardaway Flournoy, Mary Lu Hardaway Lampton, Susannah Meade Hardaway, and Ann Hardaway Taylor; his sister Sarah Hardaway Hughston, seven grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the U.S. Sportsman’s Alliance or St. Paul United Methodist Church.

IN & AROUND HORSE COUNTRY • HOLIDAY 2017

SPORTING LIFE HIGHLIGHTS

Junior North American Field Hunter Championship Hosted by Belle Meade Hunt, Thomson, Georgia, November 11-12, 2017 • Eric Bowles Photos

(l-r) Natalie Tidwell and Jasmine, Mooreland Hunt, Reserve Champion, 13 & Over; Epp Wilson, MFH, Belle Meade Hunt; Liz Brecht Howard, Palm Beach Hounds; Katharine Byron, MFH, New Market–Middletown Valley Hounds; Gabriela Sacco and Bella, Live Oak Hounds, Champion 13 & Over; David Twiggs, MFHA Executive Director

T.A. Randolph North American Field Hunter Championship

at the Virginia Fall Races at Glenwood Park, Middleburg October 14, 2017 Linda Becker’s Rita, ridden by MacKenzie Taylor of Goshen Hunt (MD), was selected as Champion.

Douglas Lees photos

T.A. Randolph North American Field Hunter Championship, Award Presentation to Linda Becker’s Rita, ridden by Goshen Hunt’s MacKenzie Taylor: (l-r) Glenn Epstein, ex-MFH, Judge; Rosie Campbell, MFH, Judge; Leslie Hazel, Best Turned Out Judge; Tom Mansmann, Judge; Karyn Wilson, Chairman; Rick Laimbeer, ex-MFH, Finals Field Master and Judge; Robert Taylor, MFH, Judge.

Correction: The caption for Joanne Maisano's cover photo on our Fall 2017 issue was accidentally omitted. It should have read: “Richard Roberts, Middleburg Hunt's new Huntsman, begins the season at Wind Fields Farm, home of joint-master Tim Harmon, September 7, 2017.” PHOTOGRAPHERS:

Hounds of the Warrenton Hunt eager to be off on Opening Day, November 4, 2017. Michael Stevens photo

Eric Bowles www.bowlesimages.com Ron Glockner Allison Howell, DVM Images www.reflectedgloryphotos.com Tonya Harmon Austin Kaseman www.austinkaseman.com Nancy Millburn Kleck www.nancymilburnkleckphotography.com Isabel Kurek Douglas Lees douglaslees@comcast.net Dee Leftwich Joanne Maisano www.joannemaisano.com Jim McCue Dave & Ginny Reardon Bill Sigafoos www.wlsphoto.com Barbara Smith Michael Stevens Rick Stillings www.rickstillings.com Cathy Summers www.cathysummers.com Midge Todhunter David Traxler Kay Wright

(l-r) David Twiggs, MFHA Executive Director; Ainsley Colgan and Bay, Old Dominion Hounds, 12 & Under Champion; Manny Blanco, Whiskey Road Foxhounds; Katharine Byron, MFH, New Market–Middletown Valley Hounds; Amira Cooney and Calvin, Middleburg Hunt and MOC Beagles, Reserve Champion.

Virginia Field Hunter Championship Tivoli Farm Gordonsville, Virginia November 5, 2017 Cathy Summers Photos

Mo Baptiste and Fifty Grand, Piedmont Fox Hounds, show off their championship form.

Mo Baptiste and Fifty Grand of Piedmont Fox Hounds received the 2017 Virginia Field Hunter Champion title from Keswick Hunt joint Masters Nancy Wiley, Will Coleman, and Mary Kalergis. Marilyn Ware of Deep Run Hunt was reserve champion. Coleman, last year’s winner, hosted the competition at his beautiful Tivoli Farm. Following tradition, Piedmont will host the championship next year.

is published 5 times a year. Editorial and Advertising Address: 60 Alexandria Pike, Warrenton, VA 20186 For information and advertising rates, please call (540) 347-3141, fax (540) 347-7141 Space Deadline for the Winter issue is Jan 22. Payment in full due with copy. Publisher: Marion Maggiolo Managing Editor: J. Harris Anderson Advertising: Kim Gray (540) 347-3141, (800) 882-4868, Email: hckimbtc@aol.com Contributors: Aga; Lauren R. Giannini; Karen L. Myers; Will O’Keefe; Virginia Equine Alliance; Epp Wilson, MFH; Jenny Young LAYOUT & DESIGN: Kate Houchin Copyright © 2017 In & Around Horse Country®. All Rights Reserved. Volume XXVIX, No.5 POSTMASTER: CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED

IN & AROUND HORSE COUNTRY • HOLIDAY 2017

Crazy Like a Fox

BOOK REVIEW

By Rita Mae Brown

Reviewed By Lauren R. Giannini

Crazy Like a Fox, the 10th mystery in the Sister Jane series by Rita Mae Brown, boasts a terrific title guaranteed to catch the attention of any sporting enthusiast, and it also delivers—in every way, on every level—from start to finish. Like its predecessors, Crazy Like a Fox takes place in the heart of the mythical (cough, cough) Virginia countryside assigned to Jefferson Hunt Club and earns top marks for everything from plot to pace to characters. The opening scene at the Museum of Hounds and Hunting of North America at Morven Park in Leesburg features Jane Arnold, MFH and dedicated supporter of the Museum, and Marion Maggiolo, longtime Museum board member known far and wide for her excellent emporium, Horse Country Saddlery. Sister Jane and Marion are peering into the display case that honors the newest inductee into the Hunting Hall of Fame. Concerned with the lighting, Marion snaps a photo on her smart phone to see if the glare impedes a good jpeg. This tiny action becomes extremely significant. Former MFH-Huntsman Jake Carle gathers the ladies to meet other Masters for dinner in Leesburg. Marion realizes she left her phone on the display case containing Wesley Carruthers’ artifacts. After dinner, she and Sister Jane go back to Morven Park to fetch the phone. The mystery takes flight when Marion notices that her phone has a new video. It’s a selfie of Wesley Carruthers, gorgeous and Adonis-like and in his early 30s, who hunted hounds at Jefferson until 1954 when he disappeared—way before Sister Jane’s time— never to be seen or heard from again. How can this be? In addition to the inexplicable video, Marion and Sister Jane realize there’s been a burglary. The huntsman’s old-fashioned cow horn, decorated with foxhunting scenes, is missing. The action in the hunt field is first rate and first flight, putting you into the thick of it—from fox to hounds to huntsman and staff, on through the field masters and participants. The horses are magnificent hunters worthy of being coveted. The hounds are amazingly real in their interactions (note that the author is a huntsman and, therefore, lead hound, so she’s on their wavelength), and the foxes are just perfection. The Jefferson Hunt Club’s cast of characters (pun intended) is back: JtMFH Walter Lungren, Gray Lorillard, huntsman Shaker Crown, whippers-in Betty Franklin, Tootie Harris, and Sybil, to name but a few humans. The critters are as vocal as ever, including strike hound Cora, steady hound Asa, Diana, Dragon, Dasher etc., the birds who are like winged sentries, and Sister Jane’s trio: canines Raleigh and Rooster, and Golliwog the grumpy cat, who is described somewhere in the book (lost the page marker) who can hear a mouse peeing on cotton (words to that effect). Caveat emptor: If you don’t thrill to the chase, if you don’t have empathy for horse-crazy people, whether spouse, partner, offspring, best friend, if you don’t ever indulge in conversations with your cat, dog, horse, parakeet or exotic fish, you probably aren’t going to be thrilled with the Sister Jane mystery series. Rita Mae is very good at putting words into every creature’s mouth and some of the observations recorded by her animals are brilliant and downright funny. If, however, you identified with the “if” clauses that began this paragraph, you may consider yourself a card-carrying member of the club. Rita Mae has such passion for Virginia, sporting traditions, and the people involved that she can be forgiven for injecting her fiction with several real life characters. She’s also not above utilizing her novel to champion institutions and traditions that are near and dear to her heart, such as foxhunting and the Museum of Hounds and Hunting North America. Past mysteries have had their action brought to a screeching halt by truthloaded soapbox oratory, but not this time! Rita Mae has blended preaching to the choir quite seamlessly into the plot’s development and a new enthusiast’s observations (Tootie’s mother) even as the sporting author provides several Red Letter Days. New and old characters evolve so that the vital life force of the ensemble has this reviewer waiting with anticipation for the next Sister Jane mystery. Without a doubt, Crazy Like a Fox is Rita Mae’s best mystery to date. 304 pages, hardback with dust jacket, illustrated by Lee Gildea Jr. $27.00

IN & AROUND HORSE COUNTRY • HOLIDAY 2017

OPENING MEETS

Middleburg Hunt Opening Meet

Groveton, Middleburg, Virginia November 4, 2017 • Nancy Milburn Kleck Photos

Huntsman Richard Roberts begins his first formal season as Middleburg’s Huntsman having moved up from Deep Run Hunt to take the horn from retiring Hugh Robards.

Snickersville Hounds Opening Meet, Creekside, Middleburg, Virginia November 12, 2017 • Joanne Maisano Photos

Middleburg Hunt Joint Master Tim Harmon.

Middleburg Hunt Joint Master Penny Denegre.

Iroquois Hunt, Kentucky

Blessing Day, November 4, 2017

Eva Smithwick, MFH and Huntsman.

Blessing Day ceremony at Kentucky’s Iroquois Hunt held in front of historic Grimes Mill, November 4, 2017. (l-r) Master Jack van Nagell, Bishop Bruce Caldwell, Master/Huntsman Lilla Mason, and Master Jerry Miller. David Traxler photo

Laurie McClary.

Howard County – Iron Bridge Hounds Opening Meet Harwood Farm, Howard County, Maryland • November 4, 2017 Isabel Kurek Photos

Pastor Rooney (Rose Tree); Rob Scranton, Joint MFH; Don Reuwer, Joint MFH.

(l-r) William Cohen Uziel, Becky Cohen, and Irina Berra Vaz.

IN & AROUND HORSE COUNTRY • HOLIDAY 2017

RACING

2017 Fall Races By Will O’Keefe

Foxfield Fall Races 9-24-2017 There is a saying in racing that there are “Horses for Courses” and that proved to be the case at the Foxfield Fall Races on Sunday, September 24, near Charlottesville, Virginia. Orchestra Leader is the horse for the Foxfield Course. In his career he has won four races and has been second twice at Foxfield in six starts. This April at the spring meet he was ridden to victory by Keri Brion for owner S. Bruce Smart, Jr. and trainer Jimmy Day, who had handled his career to that date. He was claimed at High Hope in May by Rosbrian Farm. New trainer Ricky Hendriks recognized Orchestra Leader’s affection for Foxfield, and he was on hand for the Fall races. To no one’s great surprise, he was victorious again in the allowance optional claiming race. Under Ross Geraghty, Orchestra Leader opened his customary early lead. Entering the final turn, Kinross Farm’s Mutin (Shane Crimin) pulled alongside Orchestra Leader but that threat ended when he fell at the third fence from home. Bruton Street-US’ Lord Justice (Sean McDermott) staged a mild rally in the final quarter mile but could not threaten Orchestra Leader who won by 6 lengths. Orchestra Leader was claimed for $20,000 out of this race by Small Giants Stable. There is one thing that is certain, the Foxfield Spring races next year will be penciled in on their dance card. The Rosbrian team also won a division of the training flat race with Sixty Five (Ross Geraghty). Arnmore Thoroughbreds, LLC’s Union et Force (Graham Watters) led for most of the race and into the stretch but could not hold off Sixty Five, who had stalked the leader most of the race. Union et Force was second over Leslie F. Young’s Star Glitter (Sean McDermott). The final margin was 2¾ lengths. The other division of the training flat race went to Beverly Steinman’s Be Somebody (Shane Crimin). The winner was rated at the rear of the field but rallied around the final turn and came flying in the stretch to get up in the final sixteenth and defeat Betsy B. Mead’s So Far Away (Kieran Norris) by ½ length. Sharon E. Sheppard’s Moorland (Graham Watters) was third. The top two finishers were trained by Doug Fout. The filly and mare maiden hurdle race produced another result where stable mates finished first and second. Amy Taylor Rowe’s Waveless (Kieran Norris) beat Amy Taylor Rowe’s Lady Blanco (Graham Watters) with Rosbrian Farm’s Expecting (Ross Geraghty) finishing third after setting the pace to the final turn. At this stage Lady Blanco assumed command but Waveless was moving best of all and pulled away in the run in from the last fence to win by 2¾ lengths. Leslie Young saddled the stable mates. Shannon Hill Farm’s Show King (Sean McDermott) was a narrow ½ length winner of the maiden claiming hurdle race over C & C Racing LLC’s Pac Yer Tack (Michael Mitchell). Show Show King (Sean McDermott, up) – 1st. Rick Stillings photo King was reserved well of the pace that was set by Pac Yer Tack, rallied on the turn for home and proved best in the run in from the last. Augustin Stables’ Life Said (Shane Crimin) finished third. Jimmy Day was the winning trainer. Virginia Fall Races 10-14-2017 The National Sporting Library & Museum Cup Timber Stakes was the featured race at the Virginia Fall Races on October 14 at Glenwood Park near Middleburg, Virginia. The race attracted an eight-horse field which included four stakes winners. The favorite in the race was Armata Stables’ Grand Manan (Darren Nagle), and he took his customary lead at once with Kiplin Hall’s Rodriguez (Jack Doyle) forcing the pace. Grand Manan put Rodriguez away on the backside the last time around and Four Virginia Gents’ Worried Man (Kieran Norris) assumed the stalking role. Grand Manan led over the last fence but Worried Man found another gear in the stretch and won going away by 1¾ lengths. This was Worried Man’s first win since 2014. He missed the 2015 and 2016 seasons, and trainer Doug Fout did an excellent job bringing him back to winning form. Grand Manan finished second and last year’s winner, Sheila J. Williams & Northwood Stables’ Straight To It (Sean McDermott), was third. Doug Fout also saddled the winner of the ratings hurdle race with Beverly Steinman’s Reporter (Shane Crimin). The winner was rated off the pace, rallied on the backside the last time around to move into contention and took the lead from Sara E. Collette’s Balistes (Gus Doyle) shortly after the last fence. Reporter won going away by 4½ lengths. KMSN Stable’s Able Archer (Kieran Norris) rallied to finish second and Bruton Street-US’ Bishop’s Castle (Michael Mitchell) finished third. Shane Crimin completed a daily double when he won the second race with Magalen O’ Bryant’s Paddy’s Crown for trainer Richard L. Valentine. Paddy’s Crown stalked William Wofford’s Albus, who made the early running. At the second to last fence, Paddy’s Crown took the lead and held it to the finish. The Fields Stables’ Barnacle Bill (Jack Doyle) came flying in the stretch and just missed by a very short nose with Black and Blue Stable’s Manchurian High (Darren Nagle) third. The Randolph D. Rouse Memorial Hurdle Handicap was won by Rosbrian Farm’s Irish-bred Officer Sydney (Ross Geraghty), who is trained by Ricky Hendriks. William L. Pape’s Giza (Darren Nagle) went to the front immediately with Officer Sydney in his shadow. Officer Sydney took the lead from Giza shortly after the second to last fence and drew away to win handily by 5 lengths. Giza held on for second with PathFinder Racings’ Cognashene (Michael Mitchell) third.

Foxfield Fall Races, Training Flat Sixty Five, in the lead, (Ross Geraghty, up) – 1st. Rick Stillings photo

Foxfield Fall Races, VA Bred or Sired Training Flat Jump Ship (#4, Shane Crimin, up) – 1st; Curve of Stones (#3, Gerard Galligan, up) – 2nd. Rick Stillings photo

Foxfield Fall Races, Allowance Optional Claiming Hurdle Orchestra Leader, in the lead, (Ross Geraghty, up) – 1st. Rick Stillings photo

Virginia Fall Races, National Sporting Library and Museum Cup Timber Stakes (l-r) Worried Man (Kieran Norris, up) – 1st; Class Cherokee (McLane Hendriks, up). Douglas Lees photo

Virginia Fall Races, Bon Nouvel Ratings Handicap Hurdle Last fence (l-r) Able Archer (Kieran Norris, up) – 2nd; Reporter (Shane Crimin, up) – 1st. Douglas Lees photo

IN & AROUND HORSE COUNTRY • HOLIDAY 2017

Virginia Fall Races, Theodora A. Randolph Cup Maiden Hurdle (l-r) Barnacle Bill (#6, Jack Doyle, up) – 2nd; Paddy’s Crown (#8, Shane Crimin, up) – 1st. Douglas Lees photo

Randolph D. Rouse Memorial Presentation: Center (l-r): Mrs. Bruce (Edie) Smart; Michele Rouse; Malcolm Matheson, owner of Rosbrian Farm; George P. Mahoney to right of trophy; Ross Geraghty, rider on far right. Douglas Lees photo

International Gold Cup, Timber Stakes (l-r) Grand Manan (Darren Nagle, up) – 2nd; Doc Cebu (Hadden Frost, up) – 1st. Douglas Lees photo

International Gold Cup, Steeplethon Timber Stakes (l-r) Saluda Sam (Sean McDermott, up) – 3rd; Preseli Rock (Hadden Frost, up) – 1st. Douglas Lees photo

Carrington Holdings’ Indigo Heart (Michael Mitchell) won the maiden claiming hurdle race. The winner was trained by Arch Kingsley, Jr., whose mother Kassie is the Virginia Fall Races Race Secretary. Indigo Heart was rated off the pace that was set by C & C Racing LLC’s Pac Yer Tack (Darren Nagle) and launched a rally on the backside to jump the last fence in third. Pac Yer Tack held on well but could not deny Indigo Heart, who saved ground on the inside of the final turn and got up in the deep stretch to win by ¾ length. Mrs. George M. Sensor’s Street Passage (Jack Doyle) finished third. There was a big crowd on hand and it took all of their cheering to get Jeff Murphy’s Sacred Soul (Bryon Moorcroft) home first in the maiden timber race. Secret Soul had sprinted to the front and had what appeared to be an insurmountable lead. With a half mile to run, Secret Soul was shortening strides but still held a big lead. At the head of the stretch Secret Soul was on fumes with Mrs. S. K. Johnston, Jr.’s Dye Fore (Sean McDermott) gaining with every stride. At that stage the crowd took over and willed Secret Soul to hold on, and he did by a quickly diminishing ½ length. Irvin S. Naylor’s El Jefe Grande (Gus Dahl) finished third. This was Jeff Murphy’s first sanctioned win as a trainer. Two flat races completed the racing action with Amy Taylor Rowe’s Maserati winning the training flat race and Sara E. Collette’s Eryx the Virginia-bred flat race. Maserati (Kieran Norris) was always near the pace, took control on the backside and won easily by 4¾ lengths over Mrs. George M. Sensor’s hurdle stakes winner Top Striker (Ross Geraghty). Willow Oaks Stables, LLC’s Master Gunner (Jack Doyle) finished third in this fourteenhorse field. Leslie F. Young was the winning trainer. In The Virginia-bred race Eryx, a maiden, went to the front shortly after the start with S. Bruce Smart, Jr.’s multiple winner Officer’s Oath (Sean McDermott) close behind. Officer’s Oath threatened at the head of the stretch but could not overcome Eryx’ 20 lb. advantage and missed by ½ length. Teddy Mulligan’s Indian Ambush (Declan Queally) was third. Neil Morris trained the winner and joined fellow Virginia-based trainers Doug Fout, Richard Valentine, and Jeff Murphy with wins on the card. International Gold Cup Races 10-28-2017 The International Gold Cup Races have been run for 34 years at Great Meadow Race Course near The Plains, Virginia. The feature race is the International Gold Cup, which was once a hurdle stakes at Rolling Rock in Ligonier, Pennsylvania, but since moving to Virginia has been a premier timber race. This year on Saturday, October 28, a relative newcomer to the sport, Doc Cebu, ran the fastest time in the history of the race. Doc Cebu was only making his fifth career start over timber having lost only once, and his rider, British amateur Hadden Frost, is also a novice in the timber game with an excellent record of seven wins in eleven starts over timber all this year. These are major accomplishments for newcomers, but novice horse and novice rider is where this part of the story ends. Owner Charles C. Fenwick, Jr. and trainer Jack Fisher are living legends in timber racing and especially here at Great Meadow where as a trainer Charlie Fenwick notched four winners and Jack Fisher trained six winners of this race. Add to that total ten Virginia Gold Cup winners for Fisher and an additional win for Fenwick, and no one could dispute the level of experience by owner and trainer in racing over this course. Doc Cebu raced on the flat with little distinction and over hurdles with only a little better luck notching two wins. Coming into this season no one could imagine that in his first year racing over timber he would be the National Steeplechase Association timber horse of the year. Needless to say Doc Cebu’s career is in excellent hands. In the International Gold Cup Armata Stables’ Grand Manan (Darren Nagle) went to the front in the early stages as he had a year ago when he won this race. Frost was content to let Grand Manan set the pace, but reserved his best for when it was most important. He made his move on the turn for home, took the lead approaching the second to last fence where he took command and won going away by 113/5 lengths. Kiplin Hall’s Rodriguez (Jack Doyle) trailed in finishing third. The Frost and Fisher team also won the steeplethon in similar fashion with Bruton StreetUS’ Irish-bred Preseli Rock. Jeff Murphy’s Secret Soul (Byron Moorcroft) went to the lead immediately with Irvin S. Naylor’s steeplethon expert Saluda Sam (Sean McDermott) close behind. Secret Soul lost his rider, and Saluda Sam assumed his customary position on the front end. When the field turned for home, Saluda Sam was joined by Preseli Rock and Happenstance & Harry’s Boogie Biz (Mark Beecher). Saluda Sam was the first to tire leaving the other two to race to the last fence as a team. Upon landing, Preseli Rock quickened and won by 7 lengths over Boogie Biz with Saluda Sam holding on for third. The David L. “Zeke” Ferguson Memorial Hurdle Handicap attracted a five-horse field, but it quickly turned into a one horse race. At the drop of Graham Alcock’s flag, Mark Watts sent Stonelea Stables LLC’s Balance the Budget to the front and he quickly opened a commanding lead. Irvin S. Naylor’s Charminster (Carol-Ann Sloan) tried to rally in the final half mile but it was a case of far too little too late. S. Rebecca Shepherd’s Curve of Stones finished third. Local trainer Julie Gomena saddled Balance the Budget. In the other hurdle races favorites ran extremely well. In the maiden hurdle race The Fields Stable’s Barnacle Bill (Jack Doyle), who had just lost by a nostril at the Virginia Fall Races, left little doubt wining by 7½ lengths over Irvin S. Naylor’s Moss Code (Gus Dahl) with Stevenson, O’Donovan and Chayenne Stables LLC’s Expedient (Keith Dalton) third. Barnacle Bill was close to the pace, took the lead on the backside, and won handily. Elizabeth Voss saddled the winner. The allowance hurdle race was also won by a horse racing on the pace. This time it was Magalen O. Bryant’s Personal Start (Barry Foley), who made most of the running, and easily held off Bruton Street-US’ Lord Justice (Sean McDermott). Mrs. S. K. Johnston, Jr.’s Hanno (Keith Dalton) was third. Personal Start was a 5 length winner for trainer Richard Valentine.

IN & AROUND HORSE COUNTRY • HOLIDAY 2017

Mark B. Grier’s Cross Current (Amelia McGuirk) rallied from off the pace to win the maiden flat race for colts and geldings. Cross Current saved ground rallying on the inside around the final turn, took the lead in the final furlong and won by 1¼ lengths over Mrs. Calvin Houghland’s Last Shani (Keri Brion), who rallied on the outside. Mrs. Thomas H. Voss’ Tir Na Nog (Gus Dahl) was third. Todd J. Wyatt was the winning trainer. William L. Pape’s War Baby (Michael Mitchell) won the filly and mare maiden flat race for trainer Edward L. Graham. She rallied on the outside around the final turn, took the lead in the stretch and won going away by 4 lengths over Lady Olivia at North Cliff LLC’s Daniella (Keith Dalton) with The Fields Stable’s Dawn Wall (Jack Doyle) third. Lady Olivia at North Cliff LLC’s Accountable (Michael Mitchell) was at the rear of the field with a half mile to run but found another gear and came flying. He took the lead in the final furlong to win by 2¼ lengths over Sara E. Collette’s Balistes (Byron Moorcroft), who held second over Ron G. Potts’ Hooping (Keith Dalton). Carla L. Morgan saddled the winner. Montpelier Hunt Races 1-4-2017 Rain throughout the day may have dampened the big crowd that was on hand for the Montpelier Hunt Races at Montpelier Station, Virginia, on Saturday, November 4, but did not have adverse effects on what was a very good day of racing. For the past two years, trainer Leslie Young had saddled the winners of the Noel Laing Memorial. Ballybristol Farm LLC’s Andi’amu had won this race two years ago and Michael A. Smith’s Cul Baire International Gold Cup, David L. “Zeke” Ferguson Memorial Hurdle Stakes Balance The Budget (Mark Watts, up) – 1st. Douglas Lees photo was last year’s winner. As the field turned for home this year, it was clear that Young was going to win the race again but the question was which of her horses was going to the winners’ circle. The race up the stretch was between Andi’amu (Kieran Norris) and Michael A. Smith’s Mercoeur (Darren Nagle). These two horses had been on the pace from the start with Mercoeur in Andi’amu’s shadow. They raced to the last fence as a team, but Mercoeur had a slight lead, landed running and proved best in the stretch by 2 lengths. For Michael A. Smith, it was a second consecutive win in the Noel Laing but with a different horse this year. Obviously the French-bred Mercoeur loves Montpelier having broken his maiden here last year. Leslie Young and Darren Nagle had also won the previous race, the filly & mare allowance hurdle race, with Amy Taylor Rowe’s Lady Blanco, who was favored. Lady Blanco had broken her maiden in the filly & mare hurdle stakes at Far Hills in only her third start after two second place finishes in maiden company. Lady Blanco stole the start at Montpelier and immediately went to the front. Irvin S. Naylor’s Always Summer (Graham Watters) forced the pace the first time around but tired from her efforts leaving Lady Blanco alone on the front end. Betsy Mead’s So Far Away (Michael Mitchell) rallied belatedly but was second best losing by 1 length with Beverly Steinman’s Pure Deal (Gus Dahl) third. Jockey Michael Mitchell had a big day winning four of the first five races on the Montpelier Hunt Races, Noel Laing Hurdle Handicap Stakes At the finish, (l-r) Andi’amu (Kieran Norris, up) – 2nd; Lyonell (Jack Doyle, up) card. In the training flat race on the dirt track, Mitchell sent Sara E. Collette’s Eryx to the – 3rd; Mercoeur (Darren Nagle, up) – 1st; For Goodness Sake (Keith Dalton, up); lead at the drop of the flag in a match race with Nicki Valvo’s Naughty in Nola (Keri Three Kingdoms (loose); Cognashene (Michael Mitchell, up) – 4th. Brion). Eryx had won the Virginia-bred race at the Virginia Fall Races and he duplicated Douglas Lees photo that result. Never seriously challenged Eryx won by 1½ lengths for trainer Neil Morris. Mitchell also won the ratings hurdle handicap for NSA leading owner Bruton StreetUS with Bishop’s Castle in the second race. Mitchell reserved the winner off the pace and rallied into contention with a half mile to run. He jumped to the lead at the second last Montpelier Hunt Races, fence and won easily by 6¼ lengths over KMSN Stable’s Able Archer (Kieran Norris). The Battleship Maiden Buckshot Racing Stables LLC’s Longing to Travel (Graham Watters) rallied to take third. Claiming Hurdle Todd J. Wyatt was the winning trainer. Disobedience (Michael Mitchell, up) – 1st. Mitchell won his third straight race taking the first division of the maiden claiming Douglas Lees photo race with Debra E. Kachel’s Disobedience for trainer Ricky Hendriks. Disobedience came from off the pace to be third over the last fence. He rallied up the stretch and pulled away from Mike Dalton’s Etched in Time (Barry Foley), who finished second, and James B. Steele, Jr’s Sideling Hill (Gus Dahl), who was third. The winning margin was 6 lengths. The second division of the maiden claiming hurdle race went to PathFinder Racing’s Holiday Mousse (Barry Foley), and this accounted for Neil Morris’ second win. Holiday Mousse came from off the pace to join Mrs. George M. Sensor’s Street Passage (Jack Doyle), C&C Racing LLC’s Pac Yer Tack (Darren Nagle), and Magalen O. Bryant’s Last Farewell (Michael Mitchell) two fences from home. At this stage, Pac Yer Tack and Last Farewell dropped back leaving Street Passage and Holiday Mousse to battle over the last fence. Holiday Mousse separated from Street Passage at the top of the stretch and won by 4½ lengths. In the maiden hurdle race the Mitchell and Morris team was reunited to bring Tom Hulfish’s Swellelegent home first. KMSN Stable’s Jump to Juneau (Keri Brion) sprinted Montpelier Hunt to a clear lead at the start and had a comfortable advantage until Swellelegent mounted a Races, huge rally in the last half mile. Swellelegent had raced at the rear of the pack but found a The Constitution Maiden Hurdle different gear when it was most important. He easily ate up Jump to Juneau’s lead and won Swellelegent going away by 4½ lengths. Jump to Juneau held second over Cristina V. Mosby’s Foxhall (Michael Mitchell, Drive, who rallied for third. up) – 1st. Douglas Lees photo

[N.B.] Darren Nagle’s two wins at Montpelier were his 98th and 99th winners over fences in the United States. He notched his 100th win at Unionville, Pennsylvania, on Sunday, November 5. He earned this win in grand fashion scoring in his second consecutive Pennsylvania Hunt Cup with Irvin S. Naylor’s Ebanour for trainer Cyril Murphy.

JENNY’S PICKS

IN & AROUND HORSE COUNTRY • HOLIDAY 2017

More than any other time of year, we associate Thanksgiving to New Year’s with good food and parties. And what makes parties special besides the season? Good food! Here are some culinary suggestions for gifts or for making your parties something to remember: Spungen, Susan. Party Food. Party time can be a stressful occasion; this little handbook should help ease some of the panic with two chapters on preliminaries: invitations, planning, tasks, timing, tools to have readily on hand, table setting and decorating. Categories of food include hors d’oeuvres, buffets, sit-downs, and desserts. Hardcover, 128pp including conversion chart, $12.95 Mautone, Nick. Holiday Cocktails. The first chapter sets forth home bar basics: tools, techniques, glassware, types of alcoholic beverages to keep on hand, and measurements. Then it’s on to punches, “bubblies,” classic cocktails, “nogs, grogs and other holiday warmers,” and after-dinner drinks. Useful for the beginning bartender! Hardcover, 128pp including conversion chart, $12.95 Medrich, Alice. Holiday Cookies. Who doesn’t like cookies anytime? This little handbook is valuable not only for “the ultimate chewy, gooey, crispy, crunchy treats” it tells you how to bake, but also for the chapter on cookie baking hints that I’ve never seen elsewhere—like why you should rotate your baking sheets halfway through baking time (potential inequalities in heating temperatures in your oven); how to melt chocolate, toast nuts and coconut, mixing and measuring advice and more. Recipes include cookies and bars. Hardcover, 112pp. including conversion chart, $12.95 Franc, Louise. Roast. Who—other than vegetarians/vegans—doesn’t love a good roast? And there are even some veggie recipes (whole stuffed pumpkin, anyone?) here for those who prefer a meatless meal. From fish to fowl, sides and desserts, you’ll find lots of mouth-watering recipes here. Mushroom-stuffed chicken breasts with garlic cream sauce, beef cheeks in red wine sauce, roast Cajun fish, roasted red cabbage with dried fig glaze, then finish with cinnamon-roasted peaches with fresh ricotta, thyme and honeyed hazelnuts—is your mouth watering yet? Hardcover, 192pp. $27.50 Mystery time! Brown, Rita Mae. Crazy Like a Fox. Now out! See page 3 for a review; thought by some readers to be the best one yet in the Sister Jane series. We may be able to get a few more signed copies; just ask when you order one. $27.00 Francis, Felix. Pulse. This time the protagonist is a doctor, Christine Rankin, who tries futilely to keep an unidentified man alive at the hospital who was found unconscious in the men’s bathroom at the racetrack, and who, it turns out, was suffering from an overdose of cocaine. The only thing in his pocket is a betting slip from the track. Dr. Rankin, who also suffers from a clinical depression she has desperately been trying to conceal, feels guilty that the injection she authorized may have catapulted the man into cardiac arrest. Then hospital superiors receive a complaint about her from a colleague and suspend her from her duties while they investigate her competence to continue in service. This pushes her over the edge and results in her ultimately being committed to a mental health hospital for her anorexia. Once she is released, the case of the unidentified man begins to eat at her curiosity and she begins to dig around, consulting oc-

HORSE COUNTRY BOOKSELLERS

Specialists in New, Old & Rare Books on Horses, Foxhunting, Eventing, Polo, Racing, Steeplechasing & Sporting Art 60 Alexandria Pike, Warrenton, VA 20186 • 800-882-HUNT • 540-347-3141

casionally with the constable who originally investigated the case, PC Filipos. And as is so often the case when people dig around, what they start to dig up causes consternation among guilty parties. Naturally the betting slip indicates a connection with horseracing, so action returns to the track on more than one occasion. And as we know with both Dick and Felix Francis’s protagonists, that action can get ugly. Another riveting mystery from Felix awaits you! Hardcover, 375pp. $27.00 Then there are the odds ‘n’ ends: Anderson, J. Harris. Foxhunter’s Guide to Life & Love. The subtitle to this, “an Inspirational Novel,” should give a hint to the contents. If you have read John’s first novel, Prophet of Paradise (still available at the store), you will recognize the characters in this. “Thumper,” as he is nicknamed, has decided to write the Foxhunter’s Guide to Life & Love. These present, in short chapters, his views on what makes life worth living and love worth having. Softcover, 201pp. $16.95 Kant, Lydia, MD; and Nate Pedersen. Quackery/A Brief History of the Worst Ways to Cure Everything. We all know medicine has come a long way from the earliest days of our distant ancestors; but even in the 20th century some rather barbaric practices continued in “civilized” countries. Primitives still rely on what we would consider homeopathic remedies. A great deal of what’s covered was indeed what we would consider quackery, but there’s plenty that was simply ignorance and not intentional flimflam. The book is actually very interesting, with some wry comments by the authors tossed in for good measure and chuckles. Hardcover, 344pp. $22.95 Le Goff, Jack. Horses Came First, Second, and Last/My Unapologetic Road to Eventing Gold. Maybe his name isn’t familiar to younger riders today, but many older Olympic class riders know it well. His early experiences with horses included race riding until he became too large; enlisting in the French army, he eventually qualified for the noted Cadre Noir and became active in eventing. Following a tour of duty in Algeria, he became coach of the French eventing team, which lasted until after the Mexico Olympics, when in frustration with bureaucratic difficulties, he resigned and ultimately succeeded Bert de Nemethy at the head of the United States team. There he coached, among other notables, Bruce Davidson, Mike Plumb, Tad Coffin, Jimmy Wofford, and Torrance Watkins. Several sections of b&w and color photos illustrate his career. Le Goff’s experiences make for informative and enjoyable reading and should benefit any rider planning on making a career in the sport. Paperback, 248pp. $29.95 Salk, Susanna. At Home with Dogs and their Designers. When I first saw this title, I thought we were talking dog breeders here, but no—it’s really interior designers and their pet dogs. It’s a nice coffee-table book to thumb

Thornton Hill Hounds

Opening Meet, High Thicket Sperryville, Virginia November 12, 2017 Nancy Milburn Kleck Photos

Joint Master and Huntsman Beth Opitz directs the field’s attention to a huge eagle who was watching the Opening Day’s sport unfold.

through, showing off both the canines and their surroundings with lovely color photographs. But I have to admit to a little disappointment that I wasn’t being introduced to people who had such exotic mutts as Shihtz-poos, Goldenoodles, and the like. Well, I did find a Malti-poo. Anyhow, it’s a lovely look-at book! Hardcover, 176pp. $35.00 Shiers, Jessie C. and Jason W. 25 Projects for Horsemen. For those who are confidently skilled in the use of tools and want to save a little money rather than pay the sometimes exorbitant prices of ready-made items, try this handy DIY book, which shows how to build/make a variety of useful items for the tack room and jump ring, several sheds, and stall and barn doors. On the fabric side, there are directions for polo wraps, a saddle pad and cover, and a quarter sheet and cooler, plus several other rainyday projects. The first two sections deal with safety and tools/hardware/materials. The Resources page includes websites for various suppliers in case you have difficulty finding something locally. Hardcover, 120+pp. $24.95 Wanless, Mary. The New Anatomy of Rider Connection. Mary Wanless has written a number of good books about riding, mindset and position (The Natural Rider, Ride with Your Mind Essentials, For the Good of the Horse, For the Good of the Rider, and The New Ride with Your Mind Clinic). This latest one deals with structural balance for rider and horse, and is chock-full of photographs and illustrations to help readers envision her points. It’s full of good tips for improving your form and skill. Paperback, 224pp. $29.95 (no author) My Riding School Pony Logbook. The perfect gift for the child who is starting or continuing riding lessons! This little book, charmingly illustrated in color by Jennifer Bell, will encourage your child to record his/her experiences so they can be remembered in years to come. There are pages for description of a favorite pony as well as others ridden, a brief description of the riding school, a few pages to record lessons and what was learned, riding buddies, show record, and more. Hardcover, 64pp. $13.95 Christmas is always a good excuse for buying coloring books for children, and we have back in stock the whole “I Love…” riding series, priced at $7.99. These are delightful books to color, and the artist has included spills and thrills, plenty of excitement and “giggle-moments.” Titles include Dressage, Cross Country, Hunter/Jumper, Ponies, Riding Lessons, Show Jumping, Trail Riding and Western Riding. Another is Equestrian Parade, which includes some illustrations from the above and, being thicker, is $19.99. Unlike the others, however, this one has more shading included and is probably best for colored pencil rather than heavy crayon use. One-sided, the pages can be removed once colored and framed if desired.

Lily McKee and her pony Lucy in the Sky With Diamonds.

Thornton Hill Hounds travel in doubledecker style.

A Christmas Visit to Horse Country

PAINTED FOX PILLOW. Soft brushed cotton. Down filled, zippered closure. 18"x18". (HC1A) $98.00 ENGLISH WOOL THROW. Merino lambswool. Assorted patterns and colors. #3585-A. (HC1B) $180.00 LADIES CHATHAM LC42. Light Brown with Maroon and Gold. Sizes 6-16. #1329-XLC42. (HC1C) $795.00. ENGLISH MUFFLER. Merino lambswool. Assorted Plaids. #3585-HM. (HC1D) $50.00. WOOL HAT. 3" brim with hatband and tassel. One size. Wine. #3142-7284. (HC1E) $29.95

Do you remember how it felt in December, When you went to your favorite store? Coming in from the weather, the warm scent of leather Brought a smile as you stepped through the door.

SPRING FOX SCARF. Lightweight and stylish. Oversized. Navy 37"x75". #1676-270. (HC1F) $24.95 HORSES & TACK SCARF. Lightweight gauze. Turquoise. 27"x72". (HC1G) $24.95 BEDALE BY BARBOUR®. Our all-time most popular waxed cotton jacket. Sizes 34-50. Sage Green. #4-A 320-SGE. (HC1H) $379.00

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(540) 347-3141 800-882-HUNT (4868) 60 Alexandria Pike, Warrenton, Virginia 20186 Store Hours: Monday–Friday 9AM - 6PM, Saturday 9AM - 5PM (ET) OPEN SUNDAY 12-4 FROM THANKSGIVING UNTIL CHRISTMAS

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A Horse Country visit for something exquisite Is the clearly reliable reason For fully assuring that this Christmas morning Will be your best holiday season!

HUNTING CREST Cocktail Napkins. Package of 20. #1826-30N. (HC2E) $14.00 Beverage Cups. Biodegradable, holds up to 16 oz. Sleeve of 10. #30BC. (HC2F) $14.00

COASTERS Ceramic coasters with a cork base. Set of four. 3.75” diameter. #3119-7001685. (HC2A) $24.95 SHORT MUG. A bounding fox jumps through the rolling hills, while a wild hare wiggles its nose amongst the ferns. Porcelain. 12oz. #3119-7001674. (HC2B) $10.95

DISHCLOTH. Made from cotton and plantbased cellulose fibers, 100% natural. They offer a sustainable alternative to sponges, dishcloths and paper towels and become soft and pliable when wet for easy cleanup. 6.5” x 8”. #3119-7001676. (HC2C) $7.95 HILL & DALE DOORMAT. Coconut fiber. The bounding fox warmly welcomes your visitors. 30” x 18”. #3119-7001683. (HC2D) $49.00

PRANCING HORSE. Cocktail Napkins. Package of 20. #1826-20CN. (HC2G) $14.00 Beverage Cups. Pearlized, holds up to 17oz. Sleeve of 12. #1826-20SC. (HC2H) $18.50 Note Cards. Blank for your personal message. Package of 10 with envelopes. #1826-20NC. (HC2J) $17.95 Place Cards. Set of 10. #1826-20PC. (HC2K) $10.95

RING IN THE SEASON Made in the USA. Doorknob bell hangers. Fits all standard doorknobs. Bells are brass-plated. HAND-PAINTED BELLS. A. Beagle. 7.5" x 5.5". #1822-DH02WH. (HC2M) $19.99 B. Corgi. 6.25" x 6.5". #1822-DH01WH. (HC2N) $19.99 LEATHER BELLS. A. Large Horse Shoe. 5 bells. 9" x 5.5". Available in Havana or Dark Green. #1822-BH01. (HC2P) $29.99 B. Horse Shoe Bell Strap. 3 bells. 15" x 2.5". Available in Havana or Dark Green. #1822-BS01. (HC2Q) $34.99 C. Horse Head Bell Charm. 1 Bell. 6" x 2.5". Available in Havana or Dark Green. #1822-BT03. (HC2R) $19.99 D. Fox Bell Charm. 1 Bell. 6" x 2.5". Available in Black, Havana or Dark Green. #1822-BT02. (HC2S) $19.99

HC2 H ORSE C OUNTRY ® 800 88-2 HUNT Visit us online! www.horsecountrylife.com All prices subject to change without notice. All items subject to availability. IAHC 11-2017

PENCIL CUP Powdered coated steel. Fill with pens, pencils and paintbrushes. 3”x4”. #3119-7001686. (HC2T) $13.50

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STUDIO TOTE BAG Canvas bag paired with striped webbing handles and brass hardware. 13” x 16”. #3119-7001679. (HC2L) $24.95

ZIPPERED POUCH Cotton with metallic zipper. Perfect for small accessories, loose change and more. 7” x 4.5”. (HC2U) $17.95. KEEPSAKE BOX Secure your treasures to keep them safe. 8”x3”x2”. #31197001682. (HC2V) $17.50

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Shop online! www.HorseCountryCarrot.com AUTUMN HUNT. Fall fox hunting riders and hounds against a beautiful fall landscape. Package of 20, 3-ply napkins. Cocktail. #3618-C201702. (HC3A) $5.25 Luncheon. #3618-L201702. (HC3B) $6.25

REFLECTION FOX COLLECTION. Napkins. Soft 3-ply paper. 20 napkins per package. Cocktail. #3258-2637C. (HC3E) $6.50 Luncheon. #3258-2637L.(HC3F) $7.50 Boxed Mug. New Bone China. Decorative gift box. 13.5oz. #3258-28227. (HC3G) $17.50 Boxed Matches. 60 matchsticks per box. #325827165. (HC3H) $8.50 Dessert Plate. New Bone China. 5.75” square. #3258-28266. (HC3J) $11.95

RIDER ESSENTIALS. The perfect ensemble for an afternoon’s ride. Package of 20 3-ply napkins. Cocktail. #3618-C201703. (HC3C) $5.25 Luncheon. #3618-L201703. (HC3D) $6.25

FROLICKING FOX COLLECTION. Oven Mitt. #2210-OM001. (HC3K) $12.50 Pot Holder. #2210-PH001. (HC3L) $10.00 Tea Cozy. Fits neatly over your favorite teapot. 14” x 11”. #2210-TC001. (HC3M) $19.00 Tea Towel. 100% Cotton. (HC3N) $12.50 Mug. New bone china. Holds up to 8oz. #2210-MG001. (HC3P) $14.50 Roll-Up Tote 18”x24,” fits in purse or pocket, sturdy. 2210-BG001 (HC3Q) $8.75

PHEASANTS. Pheasants in all their glorious colors against a muted antique toile hunting scene Dinner Plate. 10.5”. Package of 8. #3618-D201704. (HC3R) $6.95 Salad Plate. 8”.Package of 8. #3618-S201704. (HC3S) $4.95 Luncheon napkins. Package of 20. #3618-L201704. (HC3T) $6.25

WOODLAND RABBIT. 100% linen kitchen towel. Folk style rabbit hopping through the woods. 19" x 29". #2210-TT04. (HC3U) $15.00

WOODLAND FOX. 100% Linen kitchen towel. Folk style fox sitting in the woods. 19” x 29”. #2210-TT03. (HC3V) $15.00

JACK RUSSELL. 100% Linen kitchen towel. Contemporary illustration. 19” x 29”. #2210TT06. (HC3W) $15.00

HILLS & TAILS. 100% Linen kitchen towel. Horses in the hills of an apple orchard. 19” x 29”.#2210-TT05. (HC3X) $12.50

HORSING AROUND. 100% Linen kitchen towel. Ann Edwards illustrations of playful ponies. 19” x 29”. #2210-TT01. (HC3Y) $12.50

H ORSE C OUNTRY ® 800 88-2 HUNT HC3 Shop online! www.horsecountrycarrot.com Not responsible for typographical errors. IAHC 11-2017

Shop onl online! www.HorseCountryCarrot.com FOX CACHEPOT. Ceramic with gilded fox heads. White and Gold. 7 ¾”. #1472-382876 (HC4A) $245.00

NEWPORT VASE. Footed porcelain vase. Soft color palette. 7” diameter, 8” tall. #3345-NM138 (HC4B) $169.00

Grand gifts and small ones for wee folks or tall ones The choices seem never to end. Whatever s desired you ll find what s required For every loved one and friend.

EXETER LETTER HOLDER. Stirrup irons organize your letters neatly. Copper and antique brass. 9”. #1806-DSK01. (HC4C) $129.00

FOX FAMILY. Hand crafted with fine attention to detail. Made of natural bark and pinecones. Finished with glitter accents. Life-like creations. Lying Fox. 9” Height by 10” Long. #1805-DIS01. (HC4E) $28.95 Standing Fox. 9” Height by 16” Long. #1805-DIS02. (HC4F) $34.95 Sitting Fox. 10” Height by 8” Wide. #1805-DIS03. (HC4G) $33.95

LINEN WASTE PAPER BASKETS Linen covered, accented with leather and equestrian motif. 12" high. Choose either Fox or Horse Shoe. Colors : Red, Navy (shown), Black, Green and Lt. Brown (not shown). 3137-WB. (HC4D) $99.00

HOUNDSTOOTH MUGS Enjoy coffe, tea or soup with these dapper houndstooth mugs. Holds up to 15oz. #389-MUGLHT. (HC4L) $24.95 A. Welsh Corgi. D. Fox Hound B. Welsh Corgi Tri-color. E. Hunt Scene C. Fox Mask F. Basset

HC4 H ORSE C OUNTRY ® 800 88-2 HUNT Visit us online! www.horsecountrylife.com All prices subject to change without notice. All items subject to availability. IAHC 11-2017

HOUNDSTOOTH COASTERS Protect your table surfaces with style. Rubber coasters, highly absorbent and hand-washable. Set of four. 4”x4”. #389-HT0404. (HC4H) $14.95. A. Foxhunt (shown). Also available: B. Welsh Corgi C. Welsh Corgi Tri-color D. Fox Mask E. Foxhound F. Basset

WINNER'S LAMP Thoroughbred on resin base. Small accent lamp. Herringbone lampshade. Overall height with shade is 14.25". Black. #1816-AL01. (HC4M) $58.99

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“THE FOX” Framed print. #3041-1001189. (HC4J) $24.95 “THE HOUND” Framed print. #3041-1001188. (HC4K) $24.95

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EQUESTRIAN SKETCH. NAPKINS. 100% Cotton. Set of four, 20”x20”. #1207-1632301. (HC5A) $41.95 TEA TOWELS. 100% Cotton. Set of two. 20”x28” #1207-1632106. (HC5B) $25.00 TABLECLOTHS. 100% Cotton. 55” x 55” #1207-1632655.(HC5C) $52.00 60” x 90”. #1207-1632660. (HC5D) $88.00 60” x 120”. #1207-1632620. (HC5E) $110.00

VINTAGE RACING. NAPKINS. 100% Cotton. Set of four, 20”x20”. #1207-1632301.(HC5F) $41.95 TEA TOWELS. 100% Cotton. Set of two. 20”x28”. #1207-1632106. (HC5G) $25.00 TABLECLOTHS. 100% Cotton. 55” x 55”. #1207-1632655. (HC5H) $52.00 60” x 90”. #1207-1632660. (HC5J) $88.00 60” x 120”. #1207-1632620. (HC5K) $110.00

HORSE & SNAFFLE. NAPKINS. 100% Cotton. Set of four. 20” x 20”. #1207-1633301. (HC5L) $41.95 TEA TOWELS. 100% Cotton. Set of two. 20” x 28”. (HC5M) $25.00 TABLECLOTHS. Hand-sketched horses and snaffle bits unite to create an exclusive and unique pattern on white cotton. 55” x 55”. #1207-1633655. (HC5N) $52.00. 60” x 90”. #1207-1633660. (HC5P) $88.00. 60” x 120”. #1207-163320. (HC5Q) $110.00

FULL CRY. Horse Country Signature, etched glasses. Made in the USA, double old fashioned. Set of 2. #1416-HC/001. (HC5R) $72.00

SECOND HORSES. Horse Country Signature, etched glasses. Made in the USA. WINE GLASSES. 16oz. Set of four. #471-17001. (HC5S) $89.95 DOUBLE OLD FASHIONED. Set of four. #471-17002. (HC5T) $89.95

WOODEN TRAYS. Antique looking wooden trays with designs. FOX TRAY. 10 ¾” by 11 ¾”. #3041-T8493BC. (HC5U) $39.95 HORSE TRAY. 11 ½" x 15 ½". #3041-T8492C. (HC5V) $48.95

H ORSE C OUNTRY ® 800 88-2 HUNT HC5 www.HorseCountryCarrot.com

Shop online! www.horsecountrycarrot.com Not responsible for typographical errors. IAHC 11-2017

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BEDALE BY BARBOUR®. Our all-time most popular waxed cotton jacket. Sizes 34-50. Sage Green. 4-A320-SGE. (HC6A) $379.00

KIMONO. Faux suede stretch jacket. Floral print with an Asian ﬂare. Aubergine. Sizes SM-XL. #1834-LJ01. (HC6B) $79.00

A bounty of wonder, up high and down under, Of presents for those on your list. In every direction, gift-giving perfection. Not a name on your list would be missed.

CASHMERE TOPPER. Perfect for the office and travel, a thoughtful gift. 100% cashmere. Ultra-ﬁne and soft. 20” body length. One Size. (HC6C) $149.00. Shown in Army and Purple. Lots of other colors including Pinks, Blues, Black, Grays in varying shades. Call for available color selection.

HARTWELL. By Barbour®. Waxed cotton jacket features a button and concealed zip fastening, a baffle quilted construction and 2 handwarmer pockets. Perfect for cold days, the Hartwell jacket is a timeless piece which you can be sure to return to year on year. Olive. US6-US16. #4-LW0763OL. (HC6D) $379.00

ENGLISH WOOL PLAID MINI-RUANA. Made in England. Merino lambswool. Shorter style, falls just below hip. Assorted Plaids. #3585-LWMR016. (HC6E) $145.00. Also available in a stole. #3585-LWSTO. (HC6F) $115.00 FELT HAT. Wool felt with a 3” ﬂoppy brim, leather hat cord. One size. Wine. #3028-7920WN. (HC6G) $75.00

HIGHLAND TWEED GLOVES. Made in England for or Horse Country. Fine leather with Donegal tweed backing. Silk lined. Sizes 6.5-8. (HC6H) $125.00 A. Cognac. #1272-HIGHLAND-COG; B. Olive. #1272-HIGHLAND-OLV; C. Brown. #1272-HIGHLAND-BRN; D. Copper. #1272-HIGHLAND-COP.

HC6 H ORSE C OUNTRY ® 800 88-2 HUNT Visit us online! www.horsecountrylife.com All prices subject to change without notice. All items subject to availability. IAHC 11-2017

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Shop online! www.HorseCountryCarrot.com ENGLISH WOOL PLAID RUANA. Made in England. Soft Merino lambswool. Falls to lower-thigh. Assorted Plaids. One size. #3585LWRR084. (HC7F) $180.00

CHRYSALIS FOR HER. Tweed covert coats, Made in England. Teflon coated, water repellant. Other tweeds available. Sizes US 2-14. T-left Hampton Tan, Orange trim. (HC7A) $995.00 T-right Bloomsbury Purple, Purple trim. (HC7B) $995.00 B-left Barnsdale Burgundy, Field coat. Sizes US 6-14. (HC7C) $1250.00 B-right Hampton Brown, Lilac trim. (HC7D) $995.00 RANCH TOUGH JACKET. Cotton canvas with water repellant finish with hood. Midnight Blue. Faux fur lined collar. Hood fits over a riding helmet. Washable. Sizes SM-XL. #1652-28509A. (HC7G) $149.95 CLOCHE HAT. Wool, with a ruched crown and rosette. Rust. One size. #2036-LW616AS. (HC7H) $28.95

WRAY VEST. By Barbour®. Diamond quilted, tailored ﬁt. Polar Quilt lined. Sizes US5-US14. (HC7E) $149.00. A. Gold. #4-LQ0859GD; B. Green (shown). #4-LQ0859GN.

PLAID MUFFLERS. Made in England. Merino lambswool. Men love them, too. Assorted plaids. #3585-HM. (HC7J) $50.00

PIVOT VEST. Stay warm in a supremely cozy, croc-embossed layer with faux-fur collar accents and an asymmetric zipper. Cool Climate insulation and zippered hand pockets. Black. Sizes SM-XL. #315-20604. (HC7K) $99.95

WINDMERE FUR H20. Fully waterproof full-grain leather and suede upper. 200g Thinsulate. Stretch ﬁt gusset. Fur lined, non-marking, barnyard acid resisting Duratred outsole. Chocolate. Sizes 6.5-11. (HC7M) $239.95. #315-21534. RANCH TOUGH VEST. A 100% Cotton canvas exterior with a water repellant ﬁnish, vest will keep you warm and dry. Faux fur lines the neck. Washable. Sizes SM-XL. (HC7L) $99.99. A. Twilight Blue. #165228004C B. Bronze. #1652-28004A C. Olive. #1652-28004B.

FERNLEE BOOT. Waterproof, vulcanized rubber upper and adjustable strap closure at calf. Green. Sizes 7.5-11. (HC7N) $149.95. #315-10018774.

H ORSE C OUNTRY ® 800 88-2 HUNT HC7 www.HorseCountryCarrot.com

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SOLD OUT F E

There s country attir e that all will desire For warmth through the wintertime chill. And jewelry exclusive that s sur ely conducive To sparking a Christmas Day thrill.

A D

VIYELLA SHIRTS FOR MEN. The famous 80% cotton/20% wool washable shirt. Button down collar, nice buttons, smart details. A Horse Country staple. D V38 #1615-455V38 L-XL (HC8A) $139.00 A. V34 #1615-455V34 MD-XL E. V37 #1615-455V37 M, XL B. V33 #1615-255V33 MD-XL F. V39 #1615-453V39 MD-XL C. V35 #1615-455V35 M-L M MEN'S MICKFIELD VESTS Made in England. Classic slim Ma fit quilted waistcoat. Water resistant. Available in Navy. res #1717-MVMN. Sizes 38-46. #1 Chocolate. #1717-MVMC. Ch Sizes 40-46. (HC8B) $212.00 Siz

DUNMORE VEST AND JACKET By Barbour®. Wind block fleece with tartan waterproof lining. Dark Olive. Sizes MD, LG and XL. Vest $299.00 #4-A405 (HC8E )Jacket $329.00 #4-387 (HC8F) (not shown)

YORK Made in England Supple dark brown and mahogany gloves with a thin soft knit lining. Men’s sizes 8 to 11, including 1/2 sizes. (HC8C) $159.00

MEN'S M BARBOUR® BA B LANGDALE LA L FLEECE VEST FL F Olive. Sizes M-XXL. O #4-MF0079OL. #4 # $129.00 ((HC8K) H BARBOUR® BORDER JACKET. Medium-weight 6oz., waxed cotton. All-weather jacket for the taller gentleman. Two generous billow pockets and two moleskin lined handwarmer pockets. Classic corduroy collar. Two-way front zipper with studded storm flap. Sage. Sizes 44-48. #4-A330. (HC8G) $449.00

BARBOUR NELSON SWEATER. Lambswool, 1/2 zip, Lambswool zip funnel neck sweater. Sizes: SM-XXL (HC8H) $149.00 Dark Olive / Orange #4-MK0863GN

PATRICK Made in England A new glove with all the important reinforcements for riding; Velcro at the wrist and buttery soft deerskin. M-XL. (HC8J) $165.00

HC8 H ORSE C OUNTRY ® 800 88-2 HUNT Visit us online! www.horsecountrylife.com All prices subject to change without notice. All items subject to availability. IAHC 11-2017

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Shop online! www.HorseCountryCarrot.com VIYELLA MERINO SWEATER. Luxurious comfort, lightweight and airy. ¼ zip style with ribbed cuffs and waist. Wine. Sizes SM-XXL. # 1615-618S01. (HC9A) $180.00

VIYELLA TEXTURED SWEATER. Cotton/ Cashmere blend. Chevron textured pattern, ¼ zip style. Sage Green. Sizes SM-XXL. #1615-650S01. (HC9B) $180.00

WARREN W M Made in England. At last,t an old-fashioned shearling glove to o kkeep your hands perfectly warm tthis winter. Mid brown suede on the outside, natural short o sshearling inside. Ladies’ sizes 6 to 8. (HC9C) $195.00. Men’s 8 to 11 including 1/2 sizes. M (HC9D) $195.00 (

CHYRSALIS CHILTERN FIELD COAT. Made in England. 100% Wool. Large billow style pockets. Internal all-weather, waterproof and breathable membrane. Gold quilted lining. Storm collar for extra protection against the wind and cold. Knitted wind cuffs. Green Herringbone with Blue, Rust and Gold overplaid. M-XL. #559-BELLT. (HC9G) $1225.00.

MEN'S QUILTED VEST Made in England. (HC9E) $225.00 Army Green. Sizes 40"-46". #1761-Q12GRN Pumpkin. Sizes 40"-46". #1761-Q12ORG

M MEN'S RAYDON QUILT. By Lavenham®. Signature two-inch diamond quilt, water resistant polyester. Corduroy collar and trim, stud w fasteners, two front patch pockets and internal pocket. Double vented back and lined in a horse jacquard polyester in Medallion Gold. Chocolate. Sizes 38 - 48. #1747-MJRC. (HC9F) $289.00

MEN'S VIYELLA SHIRTS

PIPER MATT JACKET Nylon quilted. Tweed and leather trim. Leather patches on back of sleeves. Houndstooth tweed trim under the pocket flaps and storm tab. Navy. Sizes SM-LG. #1747Z800. (HC9H) $295.00

V35. Navy with Black and Yellow. Sizes M-L. #1615455V35. (HC9J) $139.00 Shown with Tie - Horse & Hound Wool Tie. Yellow. #989-444/34. (HC9K) $115.00

V39. Rainbow Plaid. Sizes M-XL. #1615-455V39. (HC9L) $139.00 Shown with Tie - Stalking Fox Tie. Heathered Green with Purple foxes. #1450-7794F4 (HC9M) $148.00

H ORSE C OUNTRY ® 800 88-2 HUNT HC9 Shop online! www.horsecountrycarrot.com www.Facebook.com/HorseCountryLife

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Shop online! www.HorseCountryCarrot.com ERTE FOX RING Pavé diamonds and emerald eyes. #5100-1212-01 (HC10B) $3695.00

New books and old ones, scarves that are bold ones In colors and patterns quite brightful. Tack for your horses, plus stable resources, And hats that are truly delightful.

DOUBLE HORSE SHOE PIN. Estate. Double horseshoe pin with hunt crop. 1912. 1 ½” long. #2518-006. (HC10A) $275.00

POLO MALLET PIN. Estate. Polo mallet and ball. 18K with diamonds. 2 3/16” long. #2518-005. (HC10C) $1695.00

CRYSTAL HUNTER CUFFLINKS. Estate. Hunter over fence. Just arrived, enquire with store. (HC10D)

FOX CRYSTAL PIN. Estate. Fox crystal, 18K. 2 ½” long. #2518-004. (HC10E) $1375.00

FOX MASK STOCK PIN. Estate. 9K gold stock pin. Fox mask with ruby eyes on a hunt crop. 2” long. #2518-002. (HC10F) $998.00

1950’S WINNERS CIRCLE. Estate. 14k brooch with diamonds. Race horse and jockey, sitting dog, large horse shoe, flower with a center sapphire and an oval crystal with a bay horse with white stripe. Two circles of diamonds gather the bouquet. 3”L by 2.75”W. #9200-001. (HC10H) $9500.00

FOX AND HORSE BRACELET. Estate. Custom made 14k gold and white gold. Foxes with ruby eyes, horses with emeralds. 7.5” long. #9319-006. (HC10G) $2500.00

14K AND CRYSTAL GENTLEMAN HUNTER PIN #1245-022. #1 1224 (HC10J) $4900.00

SADDLE & CROP PIN. Estate. 14K gold stock pin. Saddle in horse shoe on a hunt crop. 3.25”long. #9345-005.(HC10L) $995.00

CRYSTAL FOX PIN. Estate. 14k gold. Large crystal with chain edging around crystal. Serves as either a pendant or pin. 1.50” long by 1” wide. #9345-012. (HC10K) $4500.00. HORN STOCK PIN. Estate. 15k 2” long. #2518-015. (HC10N) $1095.00

NOW & FOREVER CRYSTAL PIN. 14K, hand-painted, square crystal, 1960s. #9324-001. (HC10M) $1400.00

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HC10 H ORSE C OUNTRY ® 800 88-2 HUNT Visit us online! www.horsecountrylife.com All prices subject to change without notice. All items subject to availability. IAHC 11-2017

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Shop online! www.HorseCountryCarrot.com

DIAMOND BIT NECKLACE. Estate. Custom made 14k gold and white gold necklace. D-Bit with diamonds. 16”. #9319-008. (HC11B) $2900.00

HORSE HEAD PEARL NECKLACE. Estate. Custom made 14k gold. Horse head crystal set upon a full cheek snaffle bit. 16”. #9319-007. (HC11A) $2900.00

HUNT SCENE PIN. Estate. Rectangle pin, sterling silver. 1864. 2.75” long. #2518-003. (HC11C) $998.00

FOX MASK BRACELET. Estate. Custom made 14k gold and white gold. Emerald, sapphire and ruby eyes. 7.5” long. #9319-005. (HC11D) $2200.00

HAND-PAINTED PITCHER. Antique. 10" tall. #2518-020. (HC11E) $450.00

FOX AND HOUND SALT & PEPPER SHAKERS. Antique. Sterling silver. Set of two. 1" tall. #2518-019. (HC11G) $695.00 HAND-PAINTED HIGHBALL GLASSES. Antique. 5.25" tall. Set of five. #2518-022. (HC11F) $450.00

ANTIQUE SETS OF PEPPERETTES. Sterling Silver. Garrards 1950s. A. 4" set. #2518-018. $1695.00; B. 5.25" set. #2518-017. (HC11H) $1856.00

HAND-PAINTED PILSNER GLASSES. Antique. 7.25" tall. Set of five. #2518-021. (HC11J) $450.00

H ORSE C OUNTRY ® 800 88-2 HUNT HC11 Shop online! www.horsecountrycarrot.com Not responsible for typographical errors. IAHC 11-2017

Shop online! www.HorseCountryCarrot.com BABY TOYS Frenchie Fox Baby Rattle. 100% organic cotton. 4”x6”. #1876-BR001. (HC12A) $12.95 Frenchie Fox Blankie. 100% organic cotton. Rattle and teether. 12”x12” #1876-BT001. (HC12B) $16.95 Frenchie Fox Plush Toy. 100% organic cotton. Soft and gentle for baby. 14”. #1876PT001. (HC12C) $16.95

It s wonderful to be able to do something we love and to serve people who are truly friends and not just customers. So to all of you, from the entire Horse Country team, Aga and Bunsen, may you have a fabulous Christmas and a happy New Year full of merry times and exciting chases. Sincerely, Marion

BALTHEZAR. Beagle. 12". #649-001973. (HC12G) $18.95

BOB. Beagle puppy. 8". #649-003994. (HC12D) $10.95

KIRBY. Tri-color Corgi. 16". #649-002014. (HC12E) $27.95

HAROLD. Basset Hound. 16". #649-002012. (HC12F) $29.95 AMBER. Red Fox. Laying down. 12". #649-001725. (HC12H) $15.95 YUKI. Artic White Fox. Lying down. 14". #649-001727. (HC12J) $15.95

ARCTIC FOX COLLECTION. Soft organic cotton. Perfect for keeping new babies cozy, warm and in style at home or on the go. Red fox kit frolicking through the forest. Mint green.

SNOW FOX COLLECTION. Soft, 100% organic cotton. Perfect for keeping new babies cozy, warm and in style at home or on the go. Gray fox kit frolicking through the forest. Pink.

Red Fox at Arctic Onesie. #1876-BB01. (HC12K) $26.95. A. Sizes 0-3 Months B. Size 3-6 Months Arctic Fox Hat. One size. #1876-BH001. (HC12L) $15.95 Arctic Fox Bandana Bib. Reversible. One size. #1876-BB001. (HC12M) $14.95

Snow Fox Onesie. nesie. #1876-BG01. (HC12P) $26.95. A. Sizes 0-3 Months onths B. Size 3-6 Months nths Snow Fox Hat. at. One size. #1876-BH002. 76-BH002. (HC12Q) $15.955 Snow Fox Bandana andana Bib. Reversible. Onee size. #1876-BB002.. (HC12R) $14.95

FOX BABY BLANKET. Kit foxes printed on soft cotton with a faux fur lining. #710-817-005. (HC12N) $69.00

Horse Country® (540) 347-3141 • 800-882-HUNT (4868)

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60 Alexandria Pike • Warrenton, Virginia 20186 CUSTOMER SERVICE AND INQUIRIES: (540) 347-3141 24 HOUR FAX: (540) 347-7141 For Orders Only: 800-882-HUNT(4868)

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W IN CH ES TE R

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MAIN St.

HORSE COUNTRY

WATERLOO St. RT. 29/17 Bypass

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To CULPEPER & CHARLOTTESVILLE

The Watcher on the Porch Semper Vigilo! IN & AROUND HORSE COUNTRY • HOLIDAY 2017

AGA’S SAGAS A day off is hard to come by for all us workers at Horse Country. So Sunday is the only day Bunsen and I rest. After breakfast, lying in the warm fall sunlight, we nap on and off until dinner. I’ll open one eye to see what my Marion is up to…usually sweeping the porch, washing the dog beds, raking leaves and picking up sticks. I love watching her work around the house. When she is nearby, in the yard, all is safe in the world and I can settle into a deeeeeep sleep without fear of any danger.

Aye, lassie, Sunday is our one day of rest. But I cannae sleep as soundly as you do. Someone must be on alert, ever vigilant should some monstrous beast, like a coyote, sneak upon your wee self as you snooze on the porch. I hear the coyotes all night long, making their incessant howls and barks beyond the lake.

Yes, Bunsen, you are the watcher on the porch and I’m thankful for that. No coyote will sneak into the yard without you making a racket. But that reminds me— I don’t think you’ve ever heard the coyote story from years ago, how Marion saved Pandore from the lion-sized coyote! Marion! Tell us the story! “Oh, Aga. It was a lion-colored coyote. And I really didn’t save Pandore. But since you’re both awake now and sitting at attention, okay, I’ll tell you the story. First, though, here’s a biscuit for each of you.”

The snack was perfectly timed…it’s a long stretch between breakfast and dinner! Sunday is story telling day, too. After her yard work, my Marion sits on the porch with us and tells us tales. I love the Pandore and coyote story. It’s exciting but not scary enough to keep us from dozing off again in the weakening fall sun.

“Okay, here we go. Now you two remember that although this is an old story, it’s one worth repeating if only to assure vigilance at all times, even in the yard. To begin, it was a calm fall day, a Sunday like today. Pandore and I were taking our usual walk along the hillside behind the house. He was about 30 feet behind me, nose to the ground, walking slowly. I stopped for a bit, contemplating the beautiful autumn view and the shimmering lake, waiting for him to catch up. After a few minutes, I slowly turned my head to the right to see about Pandore and just behind him stood the lion-colored coyote.” He was really big, wasn’t he?

“Yes, Aga, really big, like a huge German Shepherd. And a tawny yellow color. He was right behind Pandore. I could tell he was stalking him because his front paw was raised as if the next step had to be quietly placed for the pounce.”

Did ye nae have your shillelagh? Did ye chase the ugly banshee back to Brigadoon with a Glasgow flea in his ear?

No, Bunsen, Marion chased him all the way back to Montana where the coyotes are born.

“Shillelagh or not, I would have yelled and chased him, if not all the way to Brigadoon at least to Bealeton. But I didn’t have to since he melted away into the underbrush along the hillside. Almost like an apparition. The coyote saw my slight head turn and—poof!—he was gone.” And Pandore was unaware the coyote was even there behind him?

“Pandore couldn’t believe it when I told the story. Of course, he later claimed to know it was there all along and was waiting for the coyote to come within the range of his fangs to spring. But he seemed pretty shaken up at the time. “So, the next day, Monday, as soon as I arrived at work, I had my procurement team research walking sticks and made sure that Horse Country was well stocked with a durable and fashionable variety of them for myself and my customers. They were very popular Christmas gifts that year and all the Christmases after. “You never know, what with everyone engaging in healthy walks, when out of the bush a varmint might spring! A deranged possum or a flighty fox, teeth bared and looking for trouble. A yell may not be enough to stop them and a sturdy poke with a ready cane is just the ticket for flipping their switch from fight to flight. I had a heavy spike attached to mine in case the lion coyote comes again. “Bunsen, I hear you growling. Do you understand how dangerous the situation could be?”

Artwork by Claudia Coleman

Aye, ’tis dangerous. But I have a duty to fulfill. No matter the danger, I must be vigilant! ’Tis a proud Scottish tradition, don’t you know. It’s even the motto of the Police Service of Scotland—“Semper Vigilo, Always Vigilant.”

And I always thought your motto was “Cum Nos Manducare?” How’s that?

“When Do We Eat?”

Verra funny, lassie. Ye’ll nae be makin’ jest next time a lion-sized coyote comes sneakin’ toward your wee self a-nappin’ on the porch. I’ll make him sorry he dared to venture into our territory. Give him a right scare I will!

Marion and I looked at each other, and she shot me a wink. We both grinned and let Bunsen enjoy his moment of professed bravado.

Marion then went back to her yard work and I settled into my daybed for a sunsoaked nap to endure the long haul until dinnertime. Bunsen, however, stayed alert, perched on the edge of the porch, scanning the border of the dappled wood, the autumn-hued hillside, and the brown reeds along the lake, searching for a hint of movement that would alert him to the presence of a four-legged interloper. Maybe even a sighting of the lion-colored coyote the size of a German Shepherd. Once again, one of Marion’s Pandore stories had entered the realm of legend. With the quiet Sunday sounds of Marion bustling about, the snip of pruned branches, the creak of a rusty wheelbarrow, and Bunsen’s under-the-breath utterances—‘lion-colored’, ‘German Shepherd’, ‘deranged possum’—I felt all was safe and drifted into a deeeeeep sleep.

IN & AROUND HORSE COUNTRY • HOLIDAY 2017

Hark Forward Fall Classic Hound Trials It’s All About The Hounds

HOUND TRIALS

By Epp Wilson, MFH, Belle Meade Hunt

[Editor’s Note: We are pleased to have a firsthand account of these Hound Trials. There is no one better qualified to chronicle the action than Epp Wilson, MFH and Huntsman at Georgia’s Belle Meade Hunt. Epp is chairman of the Hark Forward Hound Trials and served as Guest Huntsman for these two days of hunting. JHA]

(l-r) Epp Wilson, MFH and Huntsman, Belle Meade Hunt, Georgia, Guest Huntsman for the Hound Trials hosted by Bull Run and Rappahannock Hunts; and Charles Montgomery, Bull Run Huntsman. Barbara Smith photo

Rappahannock Hunt’s Michael Brown, MFH and Huntsman, with Virginia Rushing, DVM, whipper-in (and Michael’s wife). Midge Todhunter photo

David Twiggs (right), MFHA Executive Director, with his daughter Salem who helped out as a whip during the Hound Trials. Midge Todhunter photo

When MFHA President Tony Leahy asked me to set up the Hound Performance Trial schedule, I knew I could count on Rappahannock and Bull Run Hunts to co-host one. The leadership of both hunts has always been positive and cooperative and fun! The only thing to work out was the date. A couple of phone calls got that worked out and we were off and running. Everything else was a detail. And both hunts are good about the details. Every Hound Trial is unique—the country and the people for starters—the game and the hounds, too. Experiencing that uniqueness is a big part of the fun! For the Hark Forward season, President Tony suggested we allow each participating hunt to provide a judge. In the past we usually had all “outside judges,” judges from hunts with no hounds entered in the competition. That worked fine but this is working better. Now each hunt provides a judge. That person can be the huntsman, whip or anyone else of that hunt’s choosing. We still have three or four “outside judges” and it is going very well. Most of the huntsmen are loving getting to judge. And they are getting to see all the action now. The back porch banter after the hunt is mostly about the great hound work they saw. A couple of things were distinctly different about this Hound Trial. 1. The MFHA Board of Directors met on the afternoons after the morning Hound Trial hunts. 2. Two hunts were co-hosting this three-day event. This is only the second time the Board has met in conjunction with a Hound Trial. The first was in 2006 when now President Tony and Fox River Valley Hunt hosted it during the Centennial. Most of the current board is new since then. So most of them had never seen a Hound Trial. This was the perfect place for them to experience a Hound Trial. With Rappahannock and Bull Run hosting it, everything would be top drawer—the country, the hospitality, and the hunting. Friendly Competition Once we had all signed up for this, we knew we had extra pressure to make everything go well. The eyes of Foxhunting in America would be watching. Then there was the friendly competition between the two host hunts. Naturally, both of them wanted to provide the best experience possible. That meant the best country, good game, good food and fellowship. The weather can make a big difference, but that was beyond our control, so we tried not to worry about that. Most Hound Trials are hosted by one hunt. So there is no real competition between the days. The host hunt simply wants the sport and the fun to be as good as possible overall— it doesn’t really matter if one day is way better than the other day. This time both hunts wanted their one day to be terrific! And they both dreaded having their one day be slow—or medium—or anything less than stellar. Hound Trials are competitive by nature and structure. We paint numbers on the hounds and judge them in the field in the categories of Hunting, Trailing, Full

Cry, and Marking. Scores are totaled for each hound and for each hunt. Everyone wants their hounds to win. And everyone wants all the hounds to do well—even the competitors’ hounds. The rival huntsmen are the first to cheer for the hounds doing the best work. The back porch bull sessions after these hunts are amazing. All the huntsmen and the keenest hunters are talking about hounds. Perhaps it was the great find that Talisman made—or the incredible work of Tartan as she worked the red fox line through a herd of cows and got the run going again after the rest of the pack had lost it and given up. Then Ryan Johnsey, MFH and Huntsman of Tennessee Valley Hunt, chimed in excitedly, “Wow! Tartan was the same hound who carried the line down a gravel road at that major check before the cow pasture.” These conversations go on and on at each Hound Trial. It is a wonderful thing. All About The Hounds We all love our hounds—and we are excited to see them perform well. Sometimes at our home hunts, we don’t have as appreciative an audience for detailed discussions of the hound work of the day. But at a Hound Trial, it’s all about the hounds. And there is always someone eager to hear the stories—the verbal snapshots of the day. There are two overall purposes to a Hound Trial: 1. To provide a way to compare hounds in the hunt field apples to apples; same day, same scenting conditions, same quarry. This helps us make better decisions about what hounds we want to breed. 2. To have fun! Foxhunting with people from five or ten or more hunts; renewing old friendships, making new ones. Both of these are obviously good for our great sport. The anticipation had been building as the dates for the Virginia Fall Classic Foxhound Performance Trials approached. Conditions this fall have been hot and dry, everywhere. However, the previous week had seen an inch of rainfall, and the weather was cooling, dipping into the 30s at night. And the changes had occurred over a few days prior to the Trials, giving hounds’ noses time to adjust. “I thought the poor scenting we’ve had during cubbing was cured by the rain earlier this week,” observed Bull Run Huntsman Charles Montgomery. Master Rosie Campbell, scouting the site of the first day’s meet, at Bull Run Master Mike Long’s Feed Lot, glimpsed the brush of a red fox slipping over a coop. Thursday Thursday was the big dinner party and the meeting for judges and participants. It was also a time for me, as the guest huntsman, to ride around the hunt country and get more familiar with it. As luck would have it, my sweetheart, Judith, and I ran into Greg Schwartz. He hunted the hounds there for many seasons before Charles Montgomery, the current professional huntsman, came here three years ago. Greg has been a great help to Charles. He is still very active in the hunt, leading second field. He knows the country and the way the game usually runs. He even bush hogs many of the trails. I asked him for his advice. He jumped into the truck with us and we bounced around hunt country for the next hour planning the casts and draws. Interestingly enough, his thoughts were nearly identical to what Charles had already suggested.

All three of us agreed: draw for red foxes first. Try to have good sport on one or two of those to settle the hounds together into a team, and settle the riders and horses. Then draw for coyote and give our audience a good great gallop through some of the prettiest hunt country in America. It is good to have a plan. Of course it usually goes out the window within minutes of the first cast. Friday and Saturday mornings we would hunt at 8:00 AM. At the dinner, Masters of both hunts welcomed everyone: members, guests, and the MFHA Board. Master Jay Moore spoke for Bull Run and Master Oliver Brown spoke for Rappahannock. MFHA Executive Director David Twiggs urged everyone to get involved with Hark Forward and to consider making a tax-deductible donation to the MFHA Foundation for the new headquarters building in Middleburg. He also urged everyone to become a Subscribing Member of the MFHA. We estimate there are 12,000 foxhunters in America. And we only have around 5,000 Subscribing Members. When he goes to legislators for help, one of the first things they ask is how many members we have in our organization. That computes to votes. We need every foxhunter to join. The cost is $35/year. Many hunts require all their members to be Subscribing Members of the MFHA. Some hunts pay it and bill the members. Those are both good methods. Master Oliver echoed David’s remarks. “The single most important thing most of you can do for the sport is to be a Subscribing Member.” Oliver told a couple of great stories about Ben Hardaway, who we learned had passed away that morning. I gave a tribute to him and a prayer. The dinner was great—as always. Bull Run owns a fine clubhouse, Inskeep Hall, dedicated to Mr. Clyde Inskeep, a major landowner and wonderful supporter. Inskeep Hall is an old schoolhouse that they have restored and upgraded beautifully. This is also where the MFHA Board met. Concerns Several people seemed concerned. “Aren’t you worried about tomorrow? How are all these hounds going to hunt together? You have English and Crossbred and Penn-Marydel hounds all hunting together. Won’t it be difficult to keep them together?” My answer was, “No, I am not worried one bit. Quality hounds recognize quality hounds. They figure each other out more quickly than most people might think. All we need is a good critter to run, and they will get together and run it just fine.” The best way to give them a head start in hunting as a pack is for them all to be together in one trailer or yard for a half hour before the actual hunt. And the guest huntsman spends most of that time in the trailer or yard with them. They get to know one another in close quarters. The hounds get the smell of the huntsman. And he tries to attach the invisible thread to each of the hounds. In my case on this particular morning, some of the hounds were thrilled to meet me and wanted to crawl into my lap. Most of the rest were happy to let me scratch them behind the ears. There were a couple who cowered in the corner. Even those shy ones hunted well together. With five hounds per hunt, each hound had four buddies from the home pack and that seemed to be enough. Hunts entered (in alphabetical order) were Blue Ridge Hunt, Bull Run Hunt, Deep Run Hunt, Farmington Hunt, Rappahannock Hunt, Tennessee Valley Hounds, and Thornton Hill Hounds. Deep Run Huntsman John Harrison was commenting to us about the whole Hound Trial dynamics for hounds. “It is a tribute to the patience, adaptability, and intelligence of these hounds to be thrown in with

IN & AROUND HORSE COUNTRY • HOLIDAY 2017

(l-r) Jean Derrick, ex-MFH, Honorary Secretary, Hark Forward Hound Trials; Rosie Campbell, MFH, Bull Run Hunt. Midge Todhunter photo

30 strange hounds and a strange huntsman in a strange country and perform well. It is amazing that they didn’t all take one look around and get back in their trailer and look at us with a look in their eyes that says, ‘This gig isn’t for me.’” On to the Action Friday morning dawned cool and damp: forty-six degrees with a light wind from the west. Good. Game table predicted a minor would occur from 7:47 to 8:47 AM. [Editor’s Note: Game table is a resource that charts various conditions and predicts when game will be moving and at what level of activity. A “major” indicates the highest level of movement, a “minor” less so but still suggests game will be afoot.] Three star game table rating for the day. Partly cloudy. Temperatures would be rising fast, so we did not need to mess around. We were burning daylight and dew. Master Jay welcomed everyone and informed one and all of the Bull Run tradition. “What are we going to do today?” he asked the crowd in a booming voice. “Have fun!” we all shouted back in enthusiastic unison. Then he introduced me as guest huntsman. I turned to MFHA Executive Director David Twiggs, who was mounted and ready to ride, for any special instructions. He smiled and said, “Find ’em fast and hunt ’em hard!” Hounds and hunters trotted out the gate with high spirits. We met as planned at the Feed Lot meet site. Bull Run MFH Mike Long owns most of the land as far as you can see. Beautiful rolling hills, mostly open, with freshly harvested cornfields and soybean fields and grass for his beef cattle. From there we drew west into a covert that often has a red fox. Ten minutes later hounds started feathering. Deep Run Huntsman John Harrison viewed a big, fluffy, silver coyote coming out the other side of the covert. Thornton Hill Master and Huntsman Beth Opitz assisted in harking the hounds to the view. Full cry erupted at 8:15. Rappahannock MFH and Huntsman Michael Brown was watching and waiting at the bottom of a long open field. “The hounds came together fast once the coyote was viewed,” Michael said. “The coyote charged down the field toward me, coming on like a tank. The hounds were all in, and right on him, five seconds behind.” We had hoped for a good red fox, but this coyote would do just fine. He headed SW toward the subdivision and Robinson River and gave us a good 15 minute run before vanishing somewhere in the Quiet Shade woods. Greg Schwartz was right there with the 2nd field when the hounds stopped. It sounded like they had put the coyote to ground. John Harrison and I climbed the wire fence and scoured the thick woods and could not find a den or anywhere with a group of hounds. The

hounds drifted out of the other side of the covert and we drew on. Later they told me that they had not gotten a coyote out of that covert in 15 years. We speculated that “Big Guy” (Mr. Hardaway) put him there for us. He loved Hound Trials and he was excited about all the Hark Forward events—especially the Hound Trials. Now, he has a front row seat again. That was a good warm up for horses, hounds, and people. Michael Brown had viewed a second coyote during the first run. We took the hounds there and the scent had faded too much to run it. There was still plenty of dew on the grass to help the scenting so we drew south toward River Road. On the steep rocky hillside above the river crossing, hounds began to speak. They were carrying the line east at a slow trot. Then there was a tally ho directly ahead. Red fox. We harked the hounds forward and they struggled to carry the line. The hounds persevered and got to some fresher scent. Then they settled on the line and were racing east. Pastures and coops flew by. This country is well paneled and very huntable. Then we had a big check. A moment later, we had a tally ho straight ahead. I was calling the hounds and Charles was pushing them forward. Out of the woods, over the coop into a huge cattle field. There was a cluster of people all pointing across the field. Most huntsmen agree that there are more goofs at views than anywhere else. We had no time for goofs today. Too many good people had worked too hard for us to mess up now. I was confused because the pasture was so big and I didn’t know where in that general direction the fox had crossed. This was a critical moment, perhaps a makeor-break moment. At home I tell my staff to “Take my hand and put it into the footprint of the coyote.” I don’t like the general, “He went that-a-way” approach. Then my hero appeared, in the distinctive profile of Middleburg huntsman, Richard Roberts. He was standing way to the east in the field, pointing clearly. I didn’t know the other people in the field, but I knew Richard well and was confident that he knew what he was about. Richard had been guest huntsman at the Belle Meade Hound Trial four years ago. And he did a fine job. Hounds hit the line in the right direction. Cry exploded and we kicked it up to barnburner speed. Now we were really settling in to the kind of day we wanted to share with everyone. Every hound was running this good red fox. The volume of cry was incredible from the mix of English, Crossbred, and PMD hounds. Judges were on both sides scoring hounds. Everything seemed to be going perfectly. Then, out of nowhere, my good horse, Aragon, let out a big buck with no warning. And then another. My running martingale had broken and was slapping his belly. There was nothing to do but stop and get rid of it. Charles shouted, “Take my horse!” But I explained it was just a tack issue. “Go on with them, Charles. I will catch up!” Farmington Huntsman Matthew Cook stopped judging long enough to help me. I got the running martingale off and flung it into the woods and we were off again. We caught up quickly where hounds had checked at a creek crossing. Billy Frederick, a fine whipper-in, shouted, “The fox went over here! Bring ’em on!” I jumped off Aragon and threw the reins to Billy, doubling the horn and calling the hounds. I climbed the barbed wire fence and called hounds deeper into the woods. We were about 80 feet into the woods when they picked up the line and took off. They carried the line well for another mile. Through the pines and parallel to Feed Lot Drive. Then they turned NE toward the rock quarry. Continued

Epp Wilson with Blue Ridge Tartan who was selected as Huntsman’s Choice for her impressive performance working a line through a herd of cows when the rest of the pack gave up and also for carrying a line down a gravel road. Midge Todhunter photo

Of course, Charles knows these trails perfectly and he was going Mach speed. I must admit he was going faster than I wanted to go in unfamiliar territory. I got left behind. Thank goodness Judge Cameron Sadler, MFH, Moore County kept up with Charles and the hounds and continued to get scores. Bull Run MFH Rosie Campbell was leading first field, so I asked her to guide me. As fast as we were going, hounds were going even faster. Somewhere along the way hounds had switched onto a coyote. We galloped across several big, beautiful fields with the hounds ahead of us and to our right in the woods. Hounds checked hard and we joined Charles and Cameron and gathered up the majority of the pack. Then there was a tally ho on a coyote ahead of us, around the bend in the milo field. We didn’t know if it was the same coyote or not. We drew the hounds into the field, but by now it was hot and dry in the sunny field. Hounds could not carry that line forward. It was time to get the hounds to water. And time for a flask break for us. After that we polled the Masters and Huntsmen. All agreed to go in. Hound Trial hunts are scheduled to last 3 hours, but we called this one at 2 hours and 10 minutes. We had enjoyed great sport on red fox and coyote. We had plenty of scores. We had all but one hound and were tracking that one. These hounds had to hunt again the next day. It was hot. Best to quit on a high note. As far as hound work, most of that day was a blur to me. Everywhere we went there was a sea of hounds doing good work. Honestly, no one stood out to me that first day. They were all great. The most notable thing to me was how well they melded together as a pack—and they did it on the very first run. The stats for day one were impressive. 14.59 miles covered over 2 hours and 36 minutes. The field galloped at a top speed of 22.6 mph. Back at the Feed Lot, we enjoyed a delicious hot hunt breakfast, prepared and served in the onsite commercial kitchen. MFH Mike Long had bought a golf course and when he upgraded the clubhouse, the facility no longer needed the commercial kitchen that just happened to be in a doublewide trailer. That kitchen has

IN & AROUND HORSE COUNTRY • HOLIDAY 2017

a new home—in the middle of Bull Run Hunt Country. After the hunt, whip Caroline Eichler observed, “These are clearly the best hounds of the entered hunts, all brought together. They know what to do, and they all honor each other.” Huntsman Michael Brown, gearing up for his turn the next day, joshed “Bull Run is lucky to have this day in their rear view mirror.” Host Bull Run Huntsman Charles Montgomery admitted, “It’s been a damned good day. We haven’t seen so much game this season, as today—three coyotes, and two foxes. I’m glad it’s over and done for us, and I’m looking forward to Michael’s day, tomorrow.” Now the pressure was on Michael and Oliver Brown and the Rappahannock Hunt. First Day Ribbons and results were given out at the Friday evening party at the lovely home of Ms. Agnes Serenko, member of Rappahannock. She and her fine daughters served an amazing Italian dinner. If anyone left there hungry or thirsty, it was their own fault! First Day Results Pack: 1 Bull Run 2 Blue Ridge 3 Thornton Hill Saturday Saturday we met at Jim and Debbie Massie’s beautiful Meadow Grove Farm. The terrain around there is steeper and more challenging. Weather conditions were similar to the day before except that the sky was clear. The game table called for a minor from 8:43 to 9:43 AM. Day two passed in an accelerated, happy blur, galloping down broad trails by meandering streams, through open meadows, and always, always, those big Rappahannock coops. The pack opened at 8:06 AM, just scant minutes after they were cast, and didn’t stop until 11:28. They spent the day chasing a wealth of game: two coyotes and five—count them—five foxes. There were splits, and lots of action. During the longest check of the day, on a hillside above a paved road bordering hunt country, the staff and field listened to the steady cry of three couple slowly working a fox toward them, while the balance of the pack was gathered up. Judge Casey Johnsey was riding and scoring that split, and later described how impressively those hounds worked. “They were incredible—steady, unstoppable and absolutely committed to the line of that fox.” This group of hounds was picked up at 10:34, after traveling 14.99 miles. The field reached a top speed of 24.6 mph. Midway through the morning Michael’s horse lost his right front shoe and Charles insisted that Michael take his horse. Nice offer. Nice horse. He had hunted at least once before. Michael can ride anything with four legs and hair, so it wasn’t a problem. Nearing the end of the day, the pack split onto two coyotes. Hounds came to a major loss at the creek SE of the Massie house. They and we were about to give up when Norman Fine viewed a coyote running west across the open pasture with six hounds after him. Oddly enough when he was three-quarters of the way across the pasture, he doubled back toward the creek. That was when I saw the coyote and the few hounds and was able to score them. The coyote dropped out of my sight over the steep hill and the hounds and I could not see him or find him. I jumped off my horse and stomped around on the creek banks and in the creek. We looked for dens. Judge Cameron Sadler and David Massie walked up and down the creek with the hounds and looked everywhere. That coyote had been about 100 feet ahead of the hounds and he vanished without a trace! Remember these were all Hound Trial hounds. So we had great hounds. We just did not have enough scent. We called this group of hounds together and headed the half mile back to the meet. At 10:55 we ar-

rived back at the meet—happy, tired, and very satisfied. It had been another very fine day of sport. I turned to Rosie and the staff and said, “Wait a minute. It’s not quitting time yet. We have five more minutes. Let’s run one more red fox!” We laughed and I got on my second horse, Chief, and went back out with whips Barton and Laura Hitchcock, Virginia Rushing, and Salem Twiggs. Michael was still out with the last 13 hounds and needed some help. They were still running the last coyote—back and forth between Big Battle Mountain and Little Battle Mountain. Michael’s second horse had lost a shoe so he was hunting from Oliver’s truck now. We gathered up 12 of the 13 and had a taste from a fine mason jar and hacked in. Back at the meet, the Massies had set up a white tent with the traditional tables and chairs and tablecloths. This was the setting of their scrumptious hunt breakfast. These two Virginia hunts generously sponsored this Foxhound Performance Trial, highlighting and showcasing great hound work. Huntsman’s Choice was Blue Ridge Tartan. Blue Ridge Huntsman Graham Buston, participating in his first Hound Trial, was pleased and delighted. Tartan is the hound mentioned earlier who carried the line forward through the field full of cattle when the rest of the pack had given up. Hats off to all the Masters and members of both hunts. They took wonderful care of all of us. The hospitality, the sport, and the countryside could not have been better. A good time was had by all. Second Day Only Results: Pack 1. Deep Run 2. Thornton Hill 3. Bull Run

Event Results for the Two Days 1. Bull Run 2. Blue Ridge 3. Deep Run

For complete results and all the points earned by each hound, please go to www.mfha.com and click on “Hounds” then click on “Performance Trials.” Then select the event you want. Then look for the “RESULTS” tab on the lower right corner of your screen. You don’t need to log in to get the results. We want every hunt and every foxhunter in America to participate in at least one Hark Forward event. We are having Hound Trials, Field Hunter Championships and Regional Joint Meets all over the US and Canada. Go to www.mfha.com for current schedule. Jean Derrick, ex-MFH, Honorary Secretary, Hark Forward Hound Trials Epp Wilson, MFH, Chairman, Hark Forward Hound Trials

••••• On Thursday, as we prepared for the Hound Trials, we got the sad news that Ben Hardaway, founder and legendary master and huntsman of Midland Fox Hounds, had passed away. He was 98 and had been in failing health for some time. But, he was bright and cheerful whether on the phone or during our visits and he was able to stay at home until the end. He and Mason Lampton, his son-in-law, had hosted the first ever Hound Performance Trials in 1996 in Fitzpatrick, Alabama. We have been doing them ever since. So, the host Masters agreed that we should dedicate the entire event to Mr. Hardaway. Mr. Hardaway and his famous hounds are covered in a different article [see page 1]. For this article I will simply say he was my foxhunting mentor and a very dear friend. EW

Piedmont Fox Hounds Opening Meet

Oakley, Upperville, Virginia • November 2, 2017

Green Spring Valley Hounds

IN & AROUND HORSE COUNTRY • HOLIDAY 2017

125th Opening Meet, The Kennels, Glyndon, Maryland November 11, 2017 • Douglas Lees Photos

Huntsman Jordan Hicks moves off with hounds to open the 2017/2018 season. Joanne Maisano photo

Huntsman Ashley Hubbard, masters, and field prepare to move off for Green Spring Valley Hounds’ 125th Opening Meet. A large field of followers prepare for a day of sport on Opening Day. Douglas Lees photo

J.W.Y. Martin, MFH, former Maryland Hunt Cup winner (1972) riding his Early Earner.

Four determined young ladies prepare for their day of hunting with the Piedmont Fox Hounds. Joanne Maisano photo

OPENING MEETS

IN & AROUND HORSE COUNTRY • HOLIDAY 2017

BOOK REVIEW

The Foxhunter’s Guide to Life & Love By J. Harris Anderson

Reviewed By Karen L. Myers, Author of To Carry the Horn

In his new book, The Foxhunters Guide to Life and Love, J. Harris Anderson presents a convincing—and amusing—premise: Life is all about The Chase! And foxhunters, more so than anyone, know how to “Embrace the Chase.” Anderson uses the voice of a central character from his previous work, The Prophet of Paradise, to present The Foxhunter Model as a guide anyone—horseperson or not—can follow to improve their love life and love of life. The narrator, Thumper Billington, is a lifelong foxhunter, joint master of the fictional Montfair Hunt. The club and its locale may be the product of Anderson’s imagination, but anyone familiar with foxhunting in Virginia will quickly recognize the terrain and the personalities who live, work, and play in it. Anderson captures the voices of his characters and each comes through as a fully developed individual. No shallow stereotypes here. As the back cover declares, “It’s Dave Barry meets Rita Mae Brown meets Dr. Phil.” There’s plenty of tongue-in-cheek playfulness, witty observations, and laugh-out-loud asides to please any fan of Barry-esque comedy. As he demonstrated in his previous work, Anderson scores high marks for the authenticity of his hunting scenes and portrayal of the intrigues and intricacies that drive this rarified, little known world. He’s even garnered a plug from the bestselling Ms. Brown herself: “Who can resist Mr. Anderson or love?” But what sets this work apart is its inspirational message. No matter where you live, what you do, or what you’re “chasing”—an enriched relationship, overcoming challenges, learning a new skill…anything that requires focus and motivation—there’s earnest, practical advice in every one of the two dozen stories and lessons told here. The stories recount Thumper Billington’s ill-advised and short-lived marriage to a feisty Irish lass, hired as a whipper-in for the Montfair Hunt. As that comes to an end, another woman enters the scene, at first an unwelcome presence but one to whom Thumper is soon drawn. Where will that lead? And what can Thumper apply from his lifelong involvement in foxhunting to avoid the pitfalls that have doomed his previous relationships? The answer is The Foxhunter Model: Seven Secrets to improve your love life and your love of life. Each of the resulting lessons begins with one or two relevant quotes and ends with a succinct tip that sums up the instructional point. Anderson has done an admirable job finding quotes that are both amusing and spot on for the topic at hand. The attributions are from a wildly eclectic range of sources that include such disparate voices as Ben Franklin, Groucho Marx, the Bible, Seth Rogan, Abraham Lincoln, Mel Gibson, Tibetan proverbs, and Paris Hilton, just to cite a few. The ending summations—TallyHo Tips—are all original Anderson. Some favorites include “When a man whispers to an animal, a woman listens,” “Dabblers fade, detailers prevail,” “The more challenging the chase, the better the climax,” and, the ultimate take-away point, “You’re only as old as the foxes you chase.” There’s a lot to like in this slim volume. Though just over 200 pages, it’s packed with valuable insights about life and love offered from the unique perspective of foxhunting. Toss in plenty of entertainment value in the telling, with original humor and some interesting tidbits along the way, plus delightful illustrations by Claudia Coleman, and it’s definitely worth the modest price of admission. Paperback. 201 pages. $16.95

OPENING MEETS

Orange County Hounds

Opening Meet, Meredyth Farm, The Plains, Virginia November 4, 2017 • Joanne Maisano Photos

(l-r) Professional Whipper-In Josh Warren, Huntsman Stephen “Reg” Spreadborough, Whipper-In Fiona Anderson.

(l-r) Sloan Coles, Rita Morency, and Julie Coles.

Huntsman Stephen “Reg” Spreadborough aided by professional WhipperIn Josh Warren.

Maryalice Larkin Matheson Thomas.

IN & AROUND HORSE COUNTRY • HOLIDAY 2017

OPENING MEETS

Farmington Hunt Opening Meet

Old Dominion Hounds Opening Meet, Bleu Dog Farm, Hume, Virginia • November 4, 2017 • Tonya Harmon Photos

Millington, Albemarle County, Virginia October 14, 2017 Cathy Summers Photos

Huntsman Jeff Woodall prepares to start his third formal season with Old Dominion Hounds.

Joy Crompton, MFH.

Chris Middleton, DVM.

Huntsman Matthew Cook.

The Reverend Justin McIntosh of Leeds Episcopal Church prepares to deliver the Blessing of the Hounds as the field looks on. On the far right are (l-r) Dr. R. Scott Dove, MFH (on the gray); Tim Colgan, First Field Master; Gus Forbush, MFH.

HORSE RACING Virginia-Breds Showcased On Commonwealth Day Card At Laurel Virginia-breds were showcased for the third time this year in a series of turf stakes at Laurel Park as part of a “Commonwealth Day” program on September 30th. The afternoon, which was also billed as “Class on the Grass,” included five $60,000 stakes restricted to Virginia-bred or sired horses, and a trio of open graded stakes that had previously been held at Colonial Downs. In capturing the Punch Line Stakes, 8-year-old Lawyer Dave pushed his lifetime bankroll over the $400,000 mark. Competing in his 60th career start, the Lawyer Ron gelding came from behind to edge Cryptos’ Holiday by a head in the 5½ furlong test. The victor was sixth in a field of eight at the three-eighths mark, advanced to third at the top of the stretch, and battled with the runner-up in an exciting stretch duel. Bred and owned by Lady Olivia at North Cliff, LLC, Lawyer Dave returned $24.00 to win, the biggest payout of the five Commonwealth-bred events. He now has 36 “top three” finishes from those starts, good for $414,367 in earnings. Exaggerated, winner of the 2015 Oakley Stakes, captured the 2017 edition over six other competitors. The 5-year-old Blame mare rebounded nicely from her most recent Virginia-bred event—an eighth place finish in the White Oak Farm Stakes June 25th. She was sent off as the Oakley betting favorite and, after a stretch battle with Northern Eclipse, prevailed two lengths the best. The winner was bred by the Hart Farm, is owned by Lael Stables, and is out of Miz United States by Valid Appeal. Exaggerated made just her 11th start and has six wins, good for purse earnings of $205,874. Yes to the Dress had an easier time of it in her race, going gate to wire in the Jamestown Stakes for 2-yearolds. Rider Jose Lezcano led the Congrats filly to an impressive 5¼ lengths triumph against seven rivals. She led by a length at the halfway point, took a five-length cushion into the top of the stretch and cruised from there. The Ron Moquett trainee covered the Jamestown’s 5½ furlongs in 1:03.27. She was bred by the Corner Farm & John Behrendt, and is out of the Secret Hello mare, Chemise. Wicked Sister finished second and Wolverette was third, Other Virginia-bred stakes winners on the card were Queen Caroline in the Brookmeade, and Special Envoy in the Bert Allen. They both earned their third Virginia-bred stakes wins. The former scored previously in the 2016 and 2017 editions of the Nellie Mae Cox Stakes, while the latter completed a 2017 hat trick of sorts. Earlier this year, the 6-year-old Stroll gelding won the Hansel Stakes in August and the Edward Evans Stakes in June. The pair were bred respectively by Morgan’s Ford Farm and Mr. & Mrs. Bertram Firestone. In the three open stakes, Just Howard prevailed in the Grade 3 Commonwealth Derby, Projected captured the Grade 2 Baltimore-Washington International Turf Cup, and Rymska was victorious in the Grade 3 Commonwealth Oaks. Information about the Virginia Thoroughbred Association is at vabred.org.

Laurel & Great Meadow Host Additional Virginia-Bred Events River Deep, a 3-year-old Arch colt bred and owned by Morgan’s Ford Farm, was best in a $30,000 VirginiaBred restricted allowance race November 2nd at Laurel. The event was part of the new VTA/HBPA “sprinkled” program, which features periodic races for Commonwealth-bred or sired horses at tracks in Maryland and West Virginia throughout the year. River Deep took an eight length lead into the top

Horses and People to Watch IN & AROUND HORSE COUNTRY • HOLIDAY 2017

Virginia Equine Alliance

Fixed Income was named “Horse of the Meet” this fall at Shenandoah Downs in Woodstock. Dee Leftwich photo

of the stretch against eight others and crossed 5¼ lengths ahead of runner-up Jump Ship. Sheldon Russell guided the effort up top for trainer Phil Schoenthal. The victor won his second straight race and has bankrolled $68,000 so far this year. Mr. Magician was third, followed by Galaxy Express, On the Wings Of, Fly E Dubai, Virginia Royal, Trustifarian, and Bourbon and Beer. Dream of Peace was scratched. The final race in this program is November 23rd at Laurel. Another event for Virginia-bred or sired horses closed out the International Gold Cup card October 28th at Great Meadow. Accountable collected his first career win courtesy of a deep stretch burst in the $35,000 Old Dominion Turf Championship. The 3-year-old Cosa Vera gelding was eighth at the mile mark of this 1¼ miles turf race before he pulled the trigger in the straightaway. Accountable surged past seven of the frontrunners with a late rally and crossed 2½ lengths in front of Balistes. The Carla Morgan trainee was bred and is owned by Lady Olivia of North Cliff, LLC. The spring edition of the Virginia Gold Cup is scheduled for Saturday May 5th. Details are at vagoldcup.com.

Virginia Equine Alliance Open Its Third OTB In The Commonwealth The Virginia Equine Alliance (VEA) recently opened its third Off Track Betting Center (OTB) at Buckets Bar & Grill in Chesapeake, located at the Battlefield Shopping Center in Great Bridge. Wagering is available seven days a week from 12 Noon thru 11 PM and up to 20 different track signals are displayed daily. Betting takes place in all three sections of the restaurant—the main dining room & lounge area, an OTB room that has its own entrance and separate bar, and an adjoining room with three pool tables. Buckets has been in operation for two years but the adjacent rooms were acquired by owner Ed Manning and have been completely renovated for the new venture. The other two OTBs are located in Richmond. The first one opened last November at Breakers Sports Grille in the West End, and the second one opened downtown in January at Ponies & Pints. More announcements are expected soon about additional OTB sites in the Commonwealth.

Shenandoah Downs Concludes A Successful Fall Harness Race Meet Fixed Income cemented her status as “Horse of the Meet” by engineering a fourth straight wire-to-wire effort at Shenandoah Downs October 15th as the second annual pari-mutuel standardbred meet concluded in Woodstock, Virginia. The 6-year-old Yankee Cruiser mare wired the field that day and crossed in 1:54 2/5, 1½ lengths ahead of Pow Chicka Pow Pow. Remarkably consistent, Cory

Kreiser’s pacer authored consecutive week miles of 1:53 4/5, 1:54.0 and 1:54 1/5 in addition to closing day’s effort. Fixed Income, who is out of the Abercrombie mare, La Daydreamer, left Woodstock on a six race win streak overall. Kreiser, of Myerstown, Pennsylvania, accepted honors as Co-Leading Trainer in addition to his “Top Horse” award. Besides driving, he trains and owns Fixed Income. Woodstock resident and local fan favorite Betsy Brown had three wins on the October 8th card and another one on the 14th to equal Kreiser with seven training wins and share that category honor. Chuck Perry of Suffolk, Virginia, pulled away in the race for top driver with four wins closing weekend and closed the fall campaign with 16 wins. The 52-yearold reinsman collected his 1,000th driving victory during the meet’s fourth weekend. The Shenandoah Downs meet featured both attendance and handle increases, exceptional weather, and competitive racing. The third season next year will run from September 15th thru October 14th. Meet updates will be available throughout the year at shenandoahdowns.com and virginiahorseracing.com.

Jockey Daniel Centeno leads Exaggerated into the winner’s circle after capturing the $60,000 Oakley Stakes at Laurel. Jim McCue photo

River Deep won his $30,000 Virginia-bred allowance race convincingly at Laurel on November 3rd. Jim McCue photo

Glenmore Hunt

Opening Meet, Staunton, Virginia October 28, 2017 Kay Wright Photos

Cindy Revercomb.

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Huntsman-in-Training Mike Hidecker.

“Dancer”

Shines in the sun, glows by the moon Takes what you know & gives it back Reg. Arabian mare 15.1h 9yo JD Gordon (602) 818-7114 5k or best oﬀer

• 23+ years of Experience

OPENING MEETS

De La Brooke Foxhounds W Opening Meet • November 4, 2017

De La Brooke Foxhounds W Jt. Master Tom Attick and professional whipper-in Kami Wolk lead the pack of Penn-Marydel hounds to the traditional Blessing of the Hounds held at Mt. Victoria, Charles County, Maryland, November 4, 2017. Ron Glockner photo

Rappahannock Hunt Opening Meet

Red Hill, Amissville, Virginia October 28, 2017 • Dave & Ginny Reardon Photos

Joint Master and Huntsman Michael Brown assembles hounds for the annual blessing assisted by Joint Master Gus Edwards.

Loudoun Fairfax Opening Meet November 5, 2017

(l-r) Clara Dart and Willson Lee Lawson riding Grovespring Farm ponies Snickers and Inspector Gadget.

Deep Run Hunt

Opening Meet, Full Stream Farm, Manakin-Sabot, Virginia October 28, 2017 • Bill Sigafoos Photos

Loudoun Fairfax Hunt Opening Meet, November 5, 2017, Overbrook, Hamilton, Virginia. (l-r) Karyn Wilson and Petra Dollwet. Austin Kaseman photo

Molly Bance Shepherd and JimJam.

Hounds of Virginia’s Loudoun Fairfax Hunt follow their new huntsman Stephanie Wilcox, ex-MFH (Fort Leavenworth Hunt), on Opening Day, November 5, 2017. Austin Kaseman photo

Bailey Clement and pony Oreo share a moment with a Deep Run hound.

Honorary Whipper-In Toby Long motions to Huntsman John Harrison, beginning his first formal season with Deep Run Hunt