|
Written by Administrator
|
|
Here at the Rockwood Harriers we like to think we are a friendly bunch. We accept that novices can find their first hunting venture a bit daunting. To help you we have produced the information below as a guide.
There is no need to regard hunting as old fashioned as in fact most of the traditions, etiquette and behaviour associated with hunting are practical and realistic.
Newcomers are welcome at any meet but if you're still unsure have a look at the meet card for "Newcomer Meets" as we have days specifically aimed at novices where we take it gently to give you the opportunity to enjoy as well as learn. We also often have a second "Non Jumping" Field Master for those unsure of their / their hoses ability.. |
|
|
Written by Administrator
|
The Master
(or MFH), is in overall command of the hunt and his word is final in the field and in the kennels. He decides when and where hounds will meet, what coverts are to be drawn, and when hounds will go home. He is responsible for hounds showing the best possible sport under existing conditions; and he is responsible for the hounds, the staff, and the Field neither damaging nor annoying the landowners who make the sport possible. He is the boss, and during his term of office there is no higher appeal. In many hunts the duties of the Master are divided between two Joint Masters.
The Huntsmen
Controls the hounds, indicating to them by signals when he wishes them to follow a trail, He attempts to be sure that hounds work together as a pack by encouraging the tail hounds and steadying the lead hounds. In the case of a check he must be prepared to assist hounds to recover the line by use of a cast if necessary. His technical decisions must be quickly made, and staff and Field must abide by them.
The Whippers-in
Assist the Huntsman in controlling hounds by turning them back to the Huntsman or by encouraging them forward to him as necessary. Whippers-in are also used by the Huntsman to retrieve the hounds should they engage a Hare. No one except the Huntsman gives orders to Whippers-In. No one, except by request of the Huntsman or MFH, should accompany them or attempt to assist them.
The Field
Consists of the mounted followers and is controlled by the Field Master who rides at the head of it. The Field Master is responsible for seeing that the Field does not interfere with hounds in their work; and he is also responsible for seeing that the Field avoids damage to the landowners property. The Field should be aligned behind the Master by order of their office and by seniority of membership in the Hunt. All Junior members shall follow behind the Senior members. Please do not change position in the field as all unnecessary commotion tends to distract the hounds.
The Secretary
Assists the Field Master in his job of observing and reporting the behaviour of the Field, particularly if it affects the landowners. Damaged fences should be reported to the Secretary. "Capping Fees" - (a set fee per hunt) must be paid to the Field Secretary before mounting. |
|
Terminology |
 |
|
Written by Administrator
|
Autumn Hunting
The early part of hunting from August until the Opening Meet on the last Saturday in October
Cap
A daily charge for non-subscribers
Please login first to read full text! |
|
|
Written by Administrator
|
Before the Meet
- Check the meet card for where and when the hunt is meeting.
- It is courtesy to ring the secretary and ask if you may join the hunt for the day.
Arrival at the meet
- Ensure your horse and it's tack are clean and well turned out
- You should wear the correct clothing which comprises of:
- Cream or Fawn Breeches or Jodhpurs
- Dark or Tweed Jacket
- Velvet hat / scull cap with black or navy silk
- Cream / white stock or tie
- Gloves are optional but should be dark coloured leather or string
- Arrive at the meet by the time stated on the meet card (preferably a little before it).
- Park sensibly in the designated area ensuring you aren't blocking a lane or driveway or anything that may cause congestion or inconvenience to other road users. Also un-box well away from the meet if possible.
- On arrival at the meet introduce yourself to the Master(s), Huntsman and Whippers-in. Seek out the person responsible for collecting caps (secretary). Do not leave it to them to seek you out.
- Hunting is a sport to enjoy. The more people you talk to at the meet, the happier the atmosphere that is created. In particular, remember to greet people on foot and make those out for the first time feel welcome.
- Make sure to face your horse to the hounds should you be in close proximity of them. Do not allow your horse to tread upon or kick a hound. A horse will by instinct kick out at something that comes up unexpectedly from behind. This rule applies throughout the hunt.
During the Hunt
- If you or your horse are a novice a Green ribbon should be worn at the top of the horses tail.
- If you know your horse is liable to kick it should wear a red ribbon at the top of it's tail.
- Ensure you stay behind the Field Master, Huntsmen and Whippers-in.
- When jumping, wait your turn. If your horse refuses then then let the others go first before trying again.
If you should damage a fence, gate or any other of the landowners property, ensure you leave it stock proof and report it to the master or secretary as soon as practicable
|
|
Written by Administrator
|
Green Ribbon
Worn on the tail of a young horse
Hand behind the back
Means this horse might kick if you crowd it.
Hand in the air by gateway
Signal to people coming towards a gate, but out of hearing, that the gate should be shut. The response to which should be to hold your hand in the air to show you have got the message and will shut the gate.
Red Ribbon
Worn on the tale of a known kicker. These horses should be kept at the back of the field until they become educated and no longer need to wear a ribbon.
Whip in the air
(usually by Field Master) This means stand still where you are, not wait until you get level with the Field Master and then stop.
Whip held to side by huntsman
If the whip is in the huntsman's right hand he will be keeping the hounds to his left. You should therefore let him pass so that his horse is between you and the hounds. |
|
|
|
|
<< Start < Prev 1 2 Next > End >>
|
|
Page 1 of 2 |
