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A "stirrup
cup" precedes the hunt, where riders partake in a cup of port wine,
sherry, or brandy. The hunt begins with a short ceremony. The Reverend Nelius, an
Episcopal priest performs the "Blessing of the Hounds" while hounds, horses,
riders, and spectators watch. At it's conclusion, the hunt begins!
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Since 1969, the Reverend Nelius has performed the Blessing of the Hounds.
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Our Huntsman, David Raley presents the Hounds. |
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The Hounds give David their full attention. |
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Five year old Henry Stevens is ready for the Hunt to
begin. |
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Hunt Secretary Carol Riggs, Joint Master Bruce Dalton and
Denise Dalton. |
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Ruby Ange |
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Senior Joint Master Irmgard Hill MFH and RHM board
member Rad Holton. |
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The riders in the Tally-Ho wagons watch as David casts the hounds
into the covert. |
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Given the large number of Riders, we are divided into to three
groups.
The first flight is led by the Field Master Steve Long follows
directly behind the Huntsman. When in "Full Cry" the pace can be fast with
plenty of jumps.
The second flight, lead by Ronnie King will follow at a more controlled pace and
jumps are optional.
The "Hilltoppers" lead by MFH Bruce Dalton take a more leisurly pace but
more often than not has the views of the fox. |
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The field readys for the Hunt! |
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David prepares to cast the hounds as whipper-in Garry Riggs MFH gets
into position. |
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David watches as the hounds work a covert in search of a fox. |
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The hounds have struck on a Fox and the field is galloping off. |
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The Hounds run in Full Cry. |
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Donna Brown strikes a pose on this fall day. |
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The Hunt runs across hay fields. |
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Long term member Mary Miller. |
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The field watches as the hounds work. |
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Mary Basset, Doug, Melanie and Hank Watson. |
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The hounds are off in hot pursuit. |
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The field follows as the hounds run in full cry. |
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David sounds his horn to signal a job well done for the Hounds. |
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Sara Shields and Sandra Alley |
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Jackie Heron and Gloria Ripperton. |
