country fun ride, essex hunt

[shannonandtay]

Daughter and a few friends decided to go on the Essex hunts fun ride yesterday and had the most amazing time. I had no idea whatsoever what it would be like and must admit my view of stuffy, stuck up people was completely transformed. It was only a fun ride but the huntsmen and hounds led the way and were followed by what looked like 30-40 people on their horses. I was so nervous my daughters pony would play up or get spooked by the hounds but he was impeccable and thoroughly enjoyed himself. The Essex hunt couldn't have been nicer or more friendly and I was very impressed by their riding and consideration for the sometimes out of control followers. Anyway after the ride which I suppose is a little taster of what a hunt ride could be like, daughter and friends were asked if they would like to come to a real hunt and was given a list of dates. My daughter is well up for this (although maybe her enthusiasm will change now it is getting wetter and colder) but like another poster has said on here I have no idea what the real hunt would involve. Does anyone have experience of riding with the Essex Hunt and what exactly is involved.

 

[Clodagh]

Not many jumps, but the odd one. Nothing huge and there is usually someone going around. Lots of ditches, some huge, you need to be competent at these as the land is mainly arable and clay the master doesn't appreciate people trying to find their own line too often.
Short runs, the country is too built up for long runs. My favourite bits are up in the north but round the Easters and Rodings is considered the best.
Lovely people who will make you very welcome.

 

[shannonandtay]

Thank you for your reply, that sounds like it might be worth a try.

 

[lester]

I believe that the ride you are referring to was the Great Graces Ride, organised by the Essex Farmers and Union Hunt, not the Essex Hunt.

Daughter and a few friends decided to go on the Essex hunts fun ride yesterday and had the most amazing time. I had no idea whatsoever what it would be like and must admit my view of stuffy, stuck up people was completely transformed. It was only a fun ride but the huntsmen and hounds led the way and were followed by what looked like 30-40 people on their horses. I was so nervous my daughters pony would play up or get spooked by the hounds but he was impeccable and thoroughly enjoyed himself. The Essex hunt couldn't have been nicer or more friendly and I was very impressed by their riding and consideration for the sometimes out of control followers. Anyway after the ride which I suppose is a little taster of what a hunt ride could be like, daughter and friends were asked if they would like to come to a real hunt and was given a list of dates. My daughter is well up for this (although maybe her enthusiasm will change now it is getting wetter and colder) but like another poster has said on here I have no idea what the real hunt would involve. Does anyone have experience of riding with the Essex Hunt and what exactly is involved.