Riding with the hounds

[Birker2020]

There is a 'ride' advertised on the notice board at my local riding club about how you can ride with the hounds and huntsman in Worcester. Its like a pleasure ride but with hounds in tow and there are natural obstacles to jump. It says on the flyer that the ride with be a nice steady ride and I am happy with that but I really don't want to be galloping across the countryside in a wild 'can't stop' group of out of control horses which would be one of my biggest fears, especially if there is some ditch or big fence looming ahead. There is a talk an hour before setting off from the huntsman about hunt etiquette. It sounds really good fun and I am quite excited at the prospect of going on my spooky but fairly laid back horse. Do even laid back horses get carried away with it all if they see others getting excited.... i think I know the answer to that question already but I'm trying not to talk myself out of going.

My chap thinks that if my horse hears the hunting horn he will start getting all excited straight away but surely if he's never heard one before he will be okay? I would really like to have a go at this ride although I wouldn't want to go actually hunting as such. I'd love to have a pop at some of the fences if they are low enough.

Has anyone ever been on one of these non hunting rides and is it nice and controlled or is it flat out non stop madness???

 

[NELSON11]

I have filled the Hip flask already Applecart

 

[Birker2020]

I have filled the Hip flask already Applecart

Yes I think it may be necessary. A lot of dutch courage in a little hip flask! ha, ha.

Why do I feel the need to ask stupid questions when i already know the answers though????????

PS Are you on an extended lunch break again Nelson11????? LOL

 

[NELSON11]

I certainly think it may be worth giving the hunt a call and speak to the secretary who I am sure would be happy to reassure you.

I would think though as it is aimed at possibly new folk to hunting and there is a talk beforehand on hunting etiquette. It certainly will not be crazy. all hell let loose run for your lives type of scenario.

The hunt staff would want it to be as controlled as possible. I think it sounds great and I think you should give it a go.

You would love it!

 

[tmsmorgan1]

Hello

I am going on my first hound exercise on Sunday and I like yourself am a bit worried about it I have 14 horses ride everyday and everyone says 'oh you'll be fine' so why I ask myself have I already got knots in my stomach? Hunting is an ambition I have wanted to fulfill fora long time and my plan is to go and do all the ridden exercise I can before the season starts.
I really hope you go on your fun ride and I hope you enjoy it maybe we could swop notes afterwards.


xxxTMS

 

[Birker2020]

Thanks Nelson, may just give them a call. Its something I've always fancied doing. I am middle of the road when it comes to hunting, neither opposed or for. Personally have never wanted to hunt as I think it is quite a dangerous sport and I know with some insurance companies (possibly all) if you have an accident out hunting you wouldn't be covered on your normal insurance terms as hunting, horseball, eventing (other than RC) all fall under the 'extra premium' catergory.

Thanks TMS. Good luck on Sunday. The one I am going on is in Inkberrow, Worcester and its on the 15th August. I'll let you know how I get on.