Where to start...?

[legyield]

For quite a while now i've been entertaining the idea of going on a drag hunt. The thing is, although i'm generally clued up on many other aspects of the equine world, i really don't have any idea where to start with this one!
I don't have a horse of my own at the moment so it would involve riding a "hireling"? Do most hunts offer these or are they more likely to be unseen? Where can i find my local hunts (pref. around South Yorks area or Sunderland/Durham)? Is there anything i should particularly expect or look to avoid? I know of a few people who are going hunting around xmas time, but heard these ones can be quite ferocious? Also, i'm only 18 - are there others of a similar age range or do they tend to be older?
I know these threads have probably been made a million times over so i apologise for that, but any advice will be gratefully received

 

[combat_claire]

http://www.mdbassociation.co.uk/

This should give you a starting point, there are less drag packs in the UK than quarry packs so you might not find one local to you. If there is a pack that you think is within reasonable distance, get in touch with the secretary - listed on the website above - they will be able to advise on hirelings, suitable meets for a novice to drag hunting and what to expect.

Certainly the drag meets I have attended always seem to have a large following of teenagers and university age students, as well as adults.

 

[larkwood]

Have you looked at the 4 shires bloodhounds website, they do not drag but hunt the clean boot (a runner) and have meets in and around your area.
There are also details on hirelings on the website www.4shires.co.uk

 

[legyield]

Thanks so far - very helpful!
As a novice to hunting, would i be expected to take someone to accompany me or anything?

 

[combat_claire]

Nope, but if you feel you want some extra help on the day is worth asking the secretary if there is an experienced follower to act as guide for the day.

 

[larkwood]

I hunt most weeks with the 4 shires and would be happy to help out as would most of the members.
The second field though is very good at making everyone welcome and riding within their comfort zone.

 

[Patches]

I hunt most weeks with the 4 shires and would be happy to help out as would most of the members.
The second field though is very good at making everyone welcome and riding within their comfort zone.

Did you go to yesterday's fittening meet, Larkwood?

I did. It was our first time out ever. :grin:

 

[larkwood]

Yes; it was great fun, the photo's are on the website.

looking forward to the next one at Hodsock near Sheffield, never been on an evening exercise, should be good.

 

[Patches]

I've just seen them...and now I'm wondering who you were!!!!! ))