what do we do on hunt?

[chilledoutpony]

I Have found out a lot about hunting thanks to replies to my other questions. But now I'm wondering what would it be like hunting autumn 2015? Would there be lots of youngsters as mine will be probably be smallest and youngest😂 will they be welcoming to me and my bouncy strided pony? I have 4 ponies but my only suitable one is my smallest and less experienced. So he will be more experienced in autumn but not really experienced, so will they welcome us ect? I can't sleep as I really want to find out where me and my little can hunt! He is a show pony in the making, but he has a lovely jump and a big collected stride.

Thanks

 

[L&M]

deleted...

 

[chilledoutpony]

?what? L&M

 

[PorkChop]

Autumn hunting is the best way to introduce a horse to hunting, there will be other youngsters out, all trying to avoid each other!

Like I said on your other thread, speak to the hunt secretary, go as many times as you possibly can and if possible take an escort

 

[chilledoutpony]

Thanks! What do I wear? Tweed jacket?

 

[PorkChop]

Thanks! What do I wear? Tweed jacket?

It depends how old you are - if you are an adult then tweed for autumn hunting and then black or navy for proper hunting. If you are not an adult then tweed is fine throughout the season.

 

[chilledoutpony]

Okay thanks

 

[Herne]

Talk to the secretary, but traditionally, ratcatcher (tweed) is fine all year round, whatever your age.

 

[JonnoT]

Autumn hunting is primarily to introduce the newly entered hounds to hunting. Autumn meets are generally much shorter and quieter than main season hunts so are a good starting point for new horses and riders too, but your horse will still be expected to not compromise the purpose of the day - i.e. training hounds. It's often a VERY early start (sometimes 0600!). Autumn hunting is normally at the invitation of the master (our pack at least) but your secretary will tell you who is the correct person to approach. You've got plenty of time until Autumn 15 so get your horse used to hacking in groups (your hunt may organise some spring rides after the close of the main season) and riding out with dogs around if it isn't already. Ratcatcher is correct dress and you won't need to plait (just as well for an 0600 start!)

 

[Alec Swan]

What happens during early season hunting? If it's anything like our pack, mostly very little, it seems to me! There's an awful lot of standing around, coffee-housing and gossiping, with an occasional trot around the corner thrown in, just to keep everyone awake!

If you make yourself known, explain that you've never hunted before, and point out that you're happy to take advice, I'm quite certain that you'll be made welcome and that you'll be included. If you're really lucky, you may be able to tag along with someone who knows the ropes, doesn't regale you with stories of those halcyon days with the Quorn in the 1930s, and importantly, someone who will explain to you about Hounds, Huntsmen, and what's going on.

I hope that you enjoy yourself and that you join with an apparently expanding throng!

Alec.