The View From Down Here

by Ziggy Pelham

I would just like to make an announcement to all the foxhunters of the world. There is a malicious rumor going around that I am NOT a fabulously talented, charming, and amazing Huntsman’s Horse for the Tennessee Valley Hunt I would like to say the following for the record:

Ziggy is NOT a hound; [Gretchen’s Note: Well, to be fair, you do only have a few inches on the pack.]
Ziggy is NOT a speed bump; [Gretchen’s Note: It …

Bull Run Hunt and Blue Ridge Trailers Team Up for the Cure

For the third year in a row, over 200 central Virginians will gather for a trail ride to raise money for Susan G. Komen for the Cure Central Virginia. All proceeds will benefit this foundation, which is dedicated to funding breast cancer research, education, support and promoting early detection. It is an amazing sight to look over such a large group of enthusiastic equestrians, many of whom come turned out …

Foxhunting Clinic Prepares New and Seasoned Foxhunters Alike

by Marylu Gallagher

A successful foxhunting clinic was held at Ridge Point Stable on August 19-21, 2011. Current and aspiring foxhunters gathered at Ridge Point Stables to learn and reinforce the necessary skills to successfully foxhunt.

On Friday, the group gathered in the ring and were then placed in four fields, each led by a “field master.” The riders warmed up and practiced walking, trotting and cantering in a group, while paying attention to their field master for cues on …

Foxhunting Car Following Etiquette

By Star Belson

Like many foxhunters, there have been times I’ve chosen to car follow a hunt.  Sometimes it’s out of necessity and other times by choice. Sometimes it’s been a hunt I was a member of and sometimes not. But it has always been with the same level of interest and enthusiasm and to those hunts I have been eternally grateful.  Some refer to us as “car topping” or “gate whips” or other terms.  I’ve always thought we should have …

Caption Contest!

Write a caption for this photo in the "comments" bar below. The winner receives fame and fortune.

Photo of the Month

Caza Ladron hounds take a well-deserved dip in the desert near Chinle, Ariz. Pictured are Master and Huntsman Brian Gonzales (foreground) and Field Master Don Gonzales. Photo by Nancy Ambrosiano

News from MFHA

Save the dates:  April 21 & 22, 2012. The 2012 Biennial Staff Seminar, a fundraiser to help save foxhunting for future generations, is rapidly approaching, and as always it is shaping up to be a unique and exciting experience. Back by popular demand, the Seminar will return to the Westfields Marriott in Chantilly, Virginia, where it was held in 2002 and 2006. Only 15 minutes from Dulles Airport, this prime location is nestled right in the middle of …

Caption Contest Winners!

Our August 2011 caption contest has two winners.

Lisa Oppenheimer: “OK… AT THE COUNT OF THREE: Step right, step left, step right …”

Vicki Reeves: “Remember, what happens in the kennels, stays in the kennels!”