VOLUME XXXVIII / NUMBER 3 • THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE VIRGINIA STEEPLECHASE ASSOCIATION • FALL 2026
TWELVE RIDGES
410 Twelve Ridges Way, Vesuvius, Va
Nestled in Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains, this 3bed, 3.5-bath home offers modern elegance with 270-degree views, just minutes from the Blue Ridge Parkway. $1,995,000 – Matthias John 434.906.4630
MOUNTAIN VIEW
19424 River Rd, Rapidan, Va
GREENLEA
RIVANNA ESTATE
1614 Carriage Dr, Manakin Sabot, Va
1859 Rivanna Farm, Charlottesville, Va
Set on 40 secluded acres, this beautifully renovated contemporary farmhouse offers sweeping pastures and thoughtfully designed spaces for gathering. Only minutes from Short Pump. $3,050,000 – Justin Wiley 434.981.5528
Set upon 42 acres of Rivanna River sanctuary, this remarkable estate offers views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, a landscape of rolling pastures and serene water frontage. $7,495,000 – Peter Wiley 434.422.2090 Justin Wiley 434.981.5528
BUNDORAN FARM
HARE FOREST
2635 Winsome Orchard Lane, North Garden, Va
Mountain View Farm is a rare 171.5-acre historic Bundoran Farm Custom Residence- A rare estate at 19424 River Road in Orange County, offering, 5 bed custom residence with beautiful cherished by the same family since 1850, featuring grounds and pool in tranquil setting 15 minutes a beautifully updated 1853 brick home. Price Upon from town and UVA. Miles and Miles of hiking Request – Justin Wiley 434.981.5528 trails. $2,600,000 – Peter Wiley 434.422.2090
S JU
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L SO
D S JU
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8386 Hare Forest Rd, Orange, Va
Privately set in one of Central Virginia’s most protected landscapes, Hare Forest is a historic estate, featuring a late 18th-century Federal-style manor on 173 acres under conservation easement. Price Upon Request – Justin Wiley 434.981.5528
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SPRINGDALE
EDGEMONT
GREENVILLE
268 Springdale Dr, Keswick, Va
3392 Edgemont Farm, North Garden, Va
23501 Greenville Rd, Culpeper, Va
Step into a 35-acre estate in Keswick. This 6,200 sq ft colonial-style home features hardwood floors, a guest cottage, pool, and tennis court. Minutes from Keswick Hall. $4,500,000 – Peter Wiley 434.422.2090 Justin Wiley 434.981.5528
Surrounded by 572 acres of rolling Virginia farmland, with the Hardware River running through the lush fields, is a home whose design is reputed to be the only remaining private residence attributed to Thomas Jefferson. $11,000,000 – Buyer Represented by Justin Wiley 434.981.5528
Stunning Classical Revival estate on 312 acres along the Rapidan River. Built in 1854, this meticulously restored home features original details, guest cottage, pool, stables, and more. Additional 403 acres available. $4,500,000 – Justin Wiley 434.981.5528 Peter Wiley 434.422.2090
©2025 Corcoran Group LLC. All rights reserved. Corcoran® and the Corcoran Logo are registered service marks owned by Corcoran Group LLC. Corcoran Group LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each franchise is independently owned and operated.
IN & AROUND HORSE COUNTRY • FALL 2026
UPPERVILLE
Determined faces, proud parents, and colorful flare were on display for the Leadline Class at the Upperville Colt & Horse Show, Saturday, June 6, 2026 Joanne Maisano Photos
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IN & AROUND HORSE COUNTRY • FALL 2026
SPORTING LIFE HIGHLIGHTS
In the 2025 TARFHC finals, Junior Violet aboard Patsy O’Brien’s Lex showed fine form over the banner fence. With a separate division now open to Juniors, expect to see many more eager young foxhunters and their horses, alongside the scores of adult riders, in the 2026 competition. PC Middleburg Photo
2026 Theodora A. Randolph Field Hunter Championship
Warrenton Horse Show to Host $7500 Thoroughbred Hunter Derby in Honor of Bill Graves Fasig-Tipton Press Release: During the 127th Warrenton Horse Show, the inaugural $7,500 William E. “Bill” Graves Memorial Thoroughbred Hunter Derby, sponsored by Gainesway Sales Company, will be held on Thursday, Sept. 3. The event will be a two-round hunter derby class at the three-foot height and is open to any Thoroughbred horse. Warrenton plans to continue to hold the Back From the Track hack, the Too Slow to Go hack, the Thoroughbred Hunter Division 2’6” or 2’9”, the $2,500 Take2 Thoroughbred Division at 3’ (sponsored by the VanMeter Bill Graves. Fasig-Tipton photo Family) alongside the Graves Hunter Derby. The Warrenton Thoroughbred celebration will begin with the Virginia Thoroughbred Yearling Futurity, scheduled for Wednesday, Sept. 2. The event is named for a beloved member of the Virginia Horse Shows Association Hall of Fame and senior vice president at Fasig-Tipton for over a quarter of a century. Bill started his career like most Virginia horsemen of that era by remaking Thoroughbreds off the track into show horses. He passed away in 2018.
•••• Upperville Colt & Horse Show Jumper Classic
This year’s competition, October 12-17, will have contestants riding with four Virginia hunts Monday-Thursday: Warrenton Hunt, Blue Ridge Hunt, Rappahannock Hunt, and Piedmont Fox Hounds. There will be a “Meet the Masters” reception on Saturday. Wednesday will feature “Junior Night – An Educational Evening for All.” On Friday the selected horse and rider pairs will vie for the ribbons and prize money at Sunny Bank Farm, just outside Middleburg. First place horse and rider will receive $1000 with prize money awarded down to fifth place. Thanks to the Virginia Horse Industry Board, a separate division has been created just for Juniors. As cited on the TARFHC website, “Our new Junior Division will emphasize rider education, safety, and long-term land stewardship… By engaging youth now, TARFHC is investing in the next generation of land stewards—individuals who will advocate for conservation, sustain access to green space, and uphold ethical standards throughout their equestrian lives.” Registration for the 2026 competition is $400 through October 9, $200 for a second horse, and $275 for juniors. For entry forms and additional information visit the TARFHC website tarfhc.com.
•••• Harness Meet at Shenandoah Downs Standardbred racing returns to Shenandoah Downs in Woodstock, with trotters and pacers featured September 19 to November 1. Pari-mutuel wagering is available throughout the seven-weekend meet, live race wagers as well as simulcast from around the nation and around the world. The Shenandoah County Fair meet runs September 2-5. Admission and parking are free, as are race day programs. More is at shenandoahdowns.com. Lilly Pulitzer never looked more at home than in the Upperville Horse Show Lead Line class. Bright pink florals, broad smiles and a handsome little pony made the Richards family impossible to miss as they stepped into the ring. While young riders may have been competing for ribbons, this trio certainly earned top honors for style. Sometimes, a Lead Line class isn't just about first rides—it's about creating family memories that will be treasured for years to come.
Daniel Bluman and Hummer Z took the top prize in the $200,000 FEI CSI4* Upperville Jumper Classic, June 7, 2026. Hummer Z is a 12-year-old Zangersheide gelding owned by Abigail Wexner. After the first round, where the pair faced 19 other combinations, Bluman and Hummer Z shined in the jump off to prevail over five other contenders. Chloe Reid (USA) finished in second place with Crossover 4 and Sloane Coles (USA) took third on Ninja JW Van De Moerhoeve. Joanne Maisano Photo
COVER PHOTOGRAPHER:
Joanne Maisano PHOTOGRAPHERS:
Zina Balash Coady Media Betsy Burke Donley Allison Howell allisonhowellimages.smugmug.com Ron and Jean Johnson Mark Jump markjumpphotography.com Karen Kandra Fiona King Douglas Lees douglaslees@comcast.net
Joanne Maisano joannemaisano.com Middleburg Photo middleburgphoto.com Christine Quinn Hailianne Schawo Autumn Sorensen VEA E. Welch Photography
is published 4 times a year. Editorial and Advertising Address: 60 Alexandria Pike, Warrenton, VA 20186 For information and advertising rates, please call (540) 347-3141, fax (540) 347-7141 Space Deadline for Holiday issue is Nov. 2, 2026. Payment in full due with copy. Publisher: Marion Maggiolo Managing Editor: J. Harris Anderson Advertising: Debbie Cutler (540) 347-3141, (800) 882-4868, Email: hcdebbiebtc@aol.com Contributors: J. Harris Anderson; Carla Babcock; Betsy Burke Donley; Col. Mark R. French, Ex-MFH; Osmun, Anson Taylor; VEA; Sarah Wildasin, MFH; Jenny Young; Virginia Zukatynski, MFH LAYOUT & DESIGN: Kate Houchin Copyright © 2026 In & Around Horse Country®. All Rights Reserved. Volume XXXVIII, No. 3 POSTMASTER: CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED Regular subscription 4 issues First Class subscription $25.00
IN & AROUND HORSE COUNTRY • FALL 2026
FOXHUNTING
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Staff Changes – Part Two
Connor Poe steps up from his role as professional Whipper-in at Loudoun Fairfax Hunt to serve in his first job as Huntsman, taking over for retiring Jeff Woodall. Middleburg Photo
Richard Roberts makes a short trip from his position as Huntsman for Middleburg Hunt to take up the horn at Old Dominion Hounds.
Steven Thomas will be dealing with bi-coastal duties as he handles his newly assumed roles as President of the Virginia Foxhound Club while also serving as Huntsman for Santa Fe West Hills Hunt in Temecula, California.
Mark Murphy heads east from his role as Huntsman for Fox River Valley and Massbach Hounds in Illinois to take the job at Middleburg Hunt. Ron & Jean Johnson photo
Middleburg Photo
Karen Kandra photo
77th FISHERSVILLE ANTIQUES EXPO
Best Indoor/Outdoor Antiques Event/Market in the Mid-Atlantic • One of the most exciting and diverse antique and collectibles shopping experience - Good Dealers, Good Antiques, Good Prices! • 300+ Exhibitors - Inside and Outside • Early Buyers: Enter Friday, 9 a.m. $15 each
Friday, Oct. 9, 9-5, $15; Saturday, Oct. 10, 9-4, $10 Chris Burrowswood leaves the fields and woodlands of New York for the open plains of Colorado where he assumes his new role as Huntsman and Joint-Master at Arapahoe Hunt. Autumn Sorensen photo
Spring 2027 Dates: May 7-8
Augusta Expoland • 277 Expo Road, Fishersville, VA www.FishervilleAntiques.Expo.com • (804) 239-0553
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IN & AROUND HORSE COUNTRY • FALL 2026
HOUND SHOWS Carolinas Hound Show
2026 Champion American Hound & Grand Champion Hound, Carolinas Hound Show, Keswick Oxford (l-r) Sarah Wildasin, MFH, Aiken Hounds; Judge Mrs. Lisa Tartaglia, Amwell Valley Hounds; Larry Byers, MFH, Aiken Hounds; Judge Jordan Hicks, Piedmont Foxhounds; Joseph Hardiman, MFH, Whiskey Road Foxhounds; Paul Wilson, Huntsman, Keswick Hunt. Christine Quinn Photography
May 2, 2026, Aiken, South Carolina By Sarah Wildasin, MFH Three hunt clubs joined forces to host the 2026 Carolinas Hound Show, held at Fox Nation in Aiken, South Carolina, May 1st and 2nd. Thanks to the combined efforts of Aiken Hounds, Whiskey Road Fox Hounds, and Sugarsand Beagles, 17 hunts were provided the opportunity to show off the pride of their pack. A total of 183 hounds vied for the Grand Championship. The weekend gathering began Friday evening with a seated welcome dinner at Fox Nation, a privately owned 1,812-acre equestrian property located 15 miles outside of downtown Aiken. The fun wrapped up with a Derby Party at the Green Boundary Club Saturday afternoon. The private club, based in an historic Aiken “cottage” (aka “mansion”), reflects the era of the 1920s and ’30s when prominent members of Northern society discovered Aiken. It was an ideal spot to spend the winter, socialize with friends, and extend their equestrian pursuits, notably foxhunting and polo. But the 2026 event did not happen without at least one challenge. As Aiken Hounds MFH Sarah Wildasin explains, “After two months of extreme drought conditions, the forecast showed that we were in for an unusually heavy and windy rainstorm on Saturday. So, following the welcome dinner Friday night, huntsmen and judges worked together to set up three rings under the eaves of the tractor barn. Everything was assembled in 45 minutes—gates and all! And barn stalls were converted into large kennels.” Safely shielded from the storm, the show went on as planned. When the judging was done, Keswick Oxford was tapped as Champion American Hound and went on to take the rosette as Grand Champion Hound. An eager and well-turned-out group of Junior handlers showed their enthusiasm for the sport and in the horn blowing contest, top place went to Martyn Blackmore, Huntsman, Princess Anne Hounds. The 2027 Carolinas Hound show will be held on May 8, hosted by the same three hunts and held at the same location.
Central States Hound Show
Central States Hound Show Grand Champion Harvard Fox Hounds’ Waylon ’24 (l-r) Lauren Hayes; Laura Batzer, MFH and Huntsman, Harvard Fox Hounds; Judge Ken George; and HFH Waylon. Hailianne Schawo photo
May 2, 2026, Louisburg, KS By Col. Mark R. French, Ex-MFH Foxhunters, hound enthusiasts, and some folks who were just curious gathered on Saturday, May 2, for the 2026 Central States Hound Show. Mission Valley Hunt Club, Louisburg, KS, generously provided their Fin and Feather facility to serve as a perfect venue for the MFHA-sanctioned hound show. The Horse and Hound Pony Club provided excellent fare throughout the day for all to enjoy. Participants who came from Nebraska to Oklahoma and Kansas to Missouri highlighted the versatility and range of foxhounds hunting across the Midwest, Southwest, and Great Plains. Of note, first time hound show participant Ozark Highland Hounds added to the competition and camaraderie of this annual gathering. (Bridlespur Hunt, MO, a stalwart participant in past shows, was unable to attend this year.) Ken George, (Professional Huntsman, Midland Hounds, Georgia) served as this year’s judge and Ryan Beer (Professional Huntsman, Mission Valley Hunt) was the apprentice judge. The hunt clubs in the Central States territory may be fewer in number and farther apart in distance than, say, the Mid-Atlantic region where shows attract entries by the hundreds. But there’s no lack of enthusiasm for showing off hounds and enjoying the companionship of fellow hunters. North Hills Hunt (NE), Fort Leavenworth Hunt (KS), Ozark Highland Hounds (MO), Harvard Fox Hounds (OK), and Mission Valley Hunt brought a combined total of just over 40 hounds to vie for the ribbons. With the smaller number of entrants, one ring sufficed and, for the first time, the breeds were combined. Crossbreds are the dominant strain among the participating clubs, followed by American with an English couple or two in some kennels. A few Penn-Marydels are also starting to appear. All went well, but the plan is to reassess next year to see if a change is needed. When the judging was done, the Champion trophy went to Harvard Fox Hounds’ Waylon ’24. HFH also won the pack class and got the nod as the top hunt of the show. Ozark Highland Hounds put their mark on this first outing with MFH and Huntsman Sara Martin’s impressive win in the horn blowing competition.
New England Hunts Hound Show
New England Hunts Hound Show Grand Champion Norfolk Lady (l-r) Steve Farrin, Huntsman, Norfolk Hunt; Judge Brian Kiely, MFH and Huntsman, Rose Tree-Blue Mountain Hunt; Carolyn Pope, MFH, Norfolk Hunt; Sarah Monaco, MFH, Norfolk Hunt; Jennifer Rogers-Farrin, Whipper-in, Norfolk Hunt. E Welch Photography
May 17, 2026, Sudbury, Massachusetts By Virginia Zukatynski, MFH The 95th New England Hound Show was held at the historic Longfellow’s Wayside Inn in Sudbury, Massachusetts. The Inn is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and became Howe’s Tavern in 1716, making it the oldest continuously operating inn in the United States. Six hunts from four states brought hounds to this lovely venue on a very unseasonably hot day: Old North Bridge, Norfolk, Myopia (MA); Tanheath (CT); Wentworth (NH); Green Mountain (VT). Brian Kiely, MFH and Huntsman, Rose Tree-Blue Mountain Hunt, PA, served as judge. He was aided by stewards Linda Souchek; Linda Fernald, MFH, Wentworth; Frederick Klein-McNeil, MFH, Wentworth; and Kim Cutler, ex-MFH Myopia. The Junior Handler classes were judged by Mrs. Cornelia (Rennie) Roberts, ex-MFH. Following the lunch, the championship classes began, where Judge Kiely expertly selected this year’s winners. Norfolk once again took top honors in the English and American classes with Norfolk Lady, English Bitch entered and Orange County Kiwi, American Bitch entered. Champion Penn-Marydel was Wentworth Betelgeuse, Dog entered, and Norfolk won the Champion Crossbred with Orange County Treacle, Bitch entered. Champion Best Couple Dogs or Bitches went to Norfolk Millie and Midnight, Bitches entered.
IN & AROUND HORSE COUNTRY • FALL 2026
When the champions from each breed gathered for the final evaluation under the knowledgeable eye of Judge Kiely, Norfolk Lady was selected Best in Show with Wentworth Betelgeuse as the Reserve Champion. The Junior Handler classes were judged during lunchtime and brought smiles to all the spectators. Judge Roberts spoke with each of the juniors and was very encouraging and helpful. Winner of age 6 and under went to Willa Pomerleau, Wentworth, showing Wentworth Krispy; age 7 to 11 was won by Addi Garbo, Tanheath, showing Tanheath Cricket; age 12- 17 was won by Calleigh Robinson, Wentworth, showing Millbrook Captain. The Junior Championship went to Addi Grabo, Tanheath; Reserve Champion was Calleigh Robinson, Wentworth. The Retired Foxhound class was won by Old North Bridge Hounds’ Nikki. Additional events included the Horn Blowing class, won by Steve Farrin, Norfolk, and the winner of the Pack Class was Myopia with hounds presented by Huntsman Samantha Stevens assisted by Whipper-in Devon Sorrentino. Full results can be found at oldnorthbridgehounds.org On a personal note, I would like to mention the outstanding job Brian did with each class as he explained his decisions for the placings. It was very helpful information, especially for amateurs like me.
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Stephen Thomas, Huntsman for Santa Fe West Hills Hunt, and Stock Illoway pinned GSV Gipsy ’25 Grand Champion Foxhound and, in an unusual move, insisted on a Reserve Grand Champion award for Norfolk Lavender ’24. Gipsy then stood against Farmington Sandy and Skycastle Always Adorable Ellie for “Best in Show” and defeated them both. To ice the cake, young ladies also took the top honors in the lunchtime showstopper, the junior handler competition. In the 3-10 age division, Ardrossan’s veteran gentleman, Y-Bob, helped Lily Rauch to the blue while in the 11-16’s Elivia Hubbard needed no help from GSV Bonnett to clinch the Bill Wickes Memorial Trophy for Best Overall Jr. Handler. With congratulations to all our winners, and great thanks to all friends, exhibitors, and volunteers, BMHS looks forward to our next show on 5 June 2027.
Virginia Fox Hound Show May 24, 2026, Morven Park, Leesburg, VA If there was ever a doubt that Mother Nature loves a hound show, the 78th Virginia Foxhound Show was proof she does! The weather leading up to the event was filled with punishing heat and near drought conditions, followed by torrential rain. But the weather on Sunday was nearly perfect: cool temperatures, overcast skies, and a gentle breeze. Hounds and exhibitors were delighted! And, as a fitting tribute to Robert Ferrer, MFH, the rings were graced with the finest judges ever to put eyes on hounds. Stepping down after 26 years of running the largest foxhound show in the world, Bob deserved nothing less. The kennels were filled to capacity with lovely hounds from across the country and competition was stiff in every ring. A total of 37 hunts participated with approximately 530 hounds entered. Competitors traveled from as far south as Florida (Live Oak), north to New Jersey (Amwell Valley), and west to Texas (Brazos Valley). At the end of the day, Hillsboro Cooper ’25 was pinned Grand Champion and Orange County Pivot ’25 was Reserve. For a listing of all the winners and more information, visit www.virginiafoxhoundclub.org. As the Virginia Foxhound Club enters the next era, the door is open to all those who wish to volunteer and become a part of this vibrant organization. If you are interested, please use the contact page of the website or email president@virginiafoxhoundclub.org. (Being a resident of Virginia is not required. Anyone with a sincere appreciation for a well-bred foxhound is welcome to become a member.)
Bryn Mawr Hound Show Malvern, Pennsylvania, May 30, 2026 By Anson Taylor The 2026 Bryn Mawr Hound Show kicked off on Friday, May 30th, with the popular whip cracking events, won by amateur Grayson Shirk of Kimberton Hunt Club and professional James Dean of Radnor Hunt. This was followed by the horn blowing competition, with great displays of skill by amateur winner Karen Dickson of Chagrin Valley Beagles, and perennial champion Martyn Blackmore of Princess Anne Hunt. After a fine meal in the Radnor Hunt clubhouse, The Julian Marshall Award, which recognizes a living individual for outstanding lifetime contributions to hounds and hunting, was presented to our very deserving local hero, Stock Illoway, MB, Ardrossan Beagles. While Friday evening was dominated by gentlemen, Saturday morning saw a strong wind blow away some tents and blow in a lot of luck for the ladies, and young ladies at that. In the English Ring, Donald Philhower judged Norfolk Lavender ’24 to be champion; next door in the Crossbred Ring, Charles Montgomery, MFH, Mells Fox Hounds, judged a strong contingent with Green Spring Valley Hounds Gipsy ’25 coming out on top. In the American Ring, Gerald Keal kindly came out of retirement to judge and found Orange County Pivot ’25 worthy of Ring Champion, following in the footsteps of her grandmother, OC Manic ’13, who was Champion American Hound in 2015. Dr. Jack van Nagell, MFH, made the trip from Iroquois Hunt to judge the PennMarydels, ably assisted by his daughter Knox Pfister, MFH. In that ring, Golden’s Bridge Georgie ’22 edged out several worthy Andrews Bridge contenders, as well as Mt. Carmel’s lovely unentered hound “Banter”, to take Champion PMD. Meanwhile at the footpack rings, Buck Wiseman, also in from Kentucky, judged the plethora of beagles, naming Farmington Sandy ’24 Champion Bitch and Champion Beagle. Larry Pitts, MFH, and Huntsman Libby Gilbert came up from Bedford County Hunt to judge the bassets jointly. They also found the Champion Bitch to be superior to any doghound, naming Skycastle Always Adorable Ellie ’22 Champion Basset. And so, after the pack classes contended with passing showers, 6 champion bitch hounds proceeded to the racecourse for the final classes. Grand Champion Judges Dr.
Virginia Fox Hound Show Grand Champion Hillsboro Cooper ’25 (l-r) Fiona King, Jim King, Emily McAlister, MFH Hill McAlister, MFH Orrin Ingram, MFH Tony Leahy (Judge), MFH Eleanor Warriner. Fiona King photo
2026 Grand Champion Hound, Bryn Mawr Hound Show Green Spring Valley Hounds Gipsy ’25 (l-r) Ashley Hubbard, GSVH Huntsman; Frank Cubero, MFH, GSVH; Judge Stock Illoway, MB, Ardrossan Beagles; Judge Steven Thomas, Huntsman, Santa Fe West Hills Hunt; Betsy Harris, MFH, Andrews Bridge, President, Bryn Mawr Hound Show Association; Show Chairman Anson Taylor, Radnor Hunt; Tiffany Evitts, Whipper-In, GSVH. Joanne Maisano photo
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IN & AROUND HORSE COUNTRY • FALL 2026
FALL RACING
Steeplechase Circuit Returns for Fall Season Four Stops on the Calendar Scheduled in Virginia By Betsy Burke Donley
With four jump meets planned in October with co-features the $50,000 National and November, Virginia leads the way on Sporting Library and Museum timber the National Steeplechase Association stakes and the $50,000 Will O’Keefe calendar this fall. memorial 3-year-old hurdle stakes.. Fall racing follows a long summer 43rd annual International schedule at the major tracks that saw Gold Cup Races Wednesday and Thursday racing at Saturday, October 24, 12 p.m. Virginia’s Colonial Downs and New York’s Great Meadow, The Plains Saratoga. Colonial debuted the newly (540) 347-2612 • (540) 349-1829 penned Triple Tiara, a rich distaff hurdle vagoldcup.com stakes series that attracted overflowing The International Gold Cup has moved fields in all three races. 2025 International Gold Cup, Virginia Equine Alliance Maiden Hurdle around, but it found what many call its Twelve stops dot the NSA schedule (l-r) Alpamayo (Harrison Beswick, up) – 1st.; Sea The Ocean (Stephen Mulqueen, up). permanent home at Great Meadow in 1984. Douglas Lees photo that opens September 26 at Shawan Downs The race, and the trophy itself, and runs through the Colonial Cup in South Carolina November 22. Richest meet trace origins to 1930 when first contested at Grasslands Downs near Nashville, on the program, the October 17 Far Hills Races in New Jersey offers a record Tennessee, over a challenging 4¼-mile brush course modeled after England’s $825,000 in six races, all stakes, headlined by the $300,000 grade 1 American legendary Grand National course at Aintree. The race immediately established Grand National over 2 5/8ths miles. international credentials when King Alfonso XIII of Spain—renowned as one of The 48th annual Foxfield Fall Races kick off Virginia action October 4, with Europe’s great horsemen and sportsmen—donated the magnificent gold trophy the October 24 International Gold Cup Races pari-mutuel meet offering still in circulation. commonwealth’s highest purse structure – $365,000 in seven races. Following the end of the Tennessee meeting in 1932, the race moved to Three graded hurdle stakes mark the local circuit: the grade 3 de Tejeda at Pennsylvania’s Rolling Rock course, developed by General Richard King Mellon. Foxfield, the grade 2 Will Allison at Gold Cup, and the grade 2 Noel Laing at Mellon owned the winner of the 1931 International Gold Cup, and he placed Montpelier November 7. the trophy in circulation for a race over Rolling Rock’s big, living hedges. The full NSA condition book, links to all the meets and their individual When Rolling Rock ran its last meet more than 40 years ago, the websites, race results and archives, live stream, and a video library are all at International Gold Cup moved to the then-new Great Meadow racecourse near nationalsteeplechase.com. The Plains in 1984. 48th Foxfield Fall Races The Gold Cup switched from brush to timber when it moved to the course Sunday, October 4, 12 p.m., Foxfield Race Course, Charlottesville which had been expressly designed as a permanent home for the Virginia Gold (434) 293-9501 • foxfieldraces.com Cup timber stakes. The 48th annual Foxfield Fall Races are October 4 in Charlottesville. Six races The 2026 meet marks the 89th race for the gold trophy. worth more than $236,000 in purses begin at 12 p.m. first post. The October 24 races include five over hurdles—headlined by the $100,000 Newly protected by conservation easement, the Foxfield property has a long grade 2 Will Allison hurdle handicap, the popular cross-country steeplethon over and varied history. It was home to the Albemarle County airport in the 1930s, varied obstacles, and the $50,000 Gold Cup. later purchased by Farmington Hunt huntsman and popular professional 91st Montpelier Hunt Races horseman Grover Vandevener. He called it Fox Fields, and he offered riding and Saturday, November 7, 12:30 p.m., Montpelier Station hunting across the farmland northwest of Charlottesville with clients, pupils, (540) 672-0027 • (540) 661-0196 • montpelierraces.org subscribers and notable visitors such as Pulitzer Prize-winning author William The 91st annual Montpelier Hunt Races are November 7 at the Montpelier estate Faulkner when he was writer in residence at the nearby University of Virginia. south of Orange. California shipping heir Mariann de Tejeda bought the land when Post time is 12:30 p.m. for the first of seven races worth $255,000. Vandevener died in 1973. She developed the track with the help of horseman, Anchoring the card is the $100,000 grade 2 Noel Laing brush handicap—over course designer, sportswriter, and photojournalist Raymie Woolfe in 1977. living hedges. The first Foxfield races ran in May, 1978. James Madison, the fourth president of the U.S., originally built the historic Last year, Foxfield board chair Dr. Reynolds Cowles helped place the 178- Orange County estate. Montpelier was purchased by industrialist William duPont, acre venue into open space easement with the Virginia Department of Sr. in 1901. Conservation and Recreation and the Albemarle Conservation Easement His daughter, Marion duPont Scott, inherited the property when William Authority. duPont died in 1928. She lived there until her death in 1983. “The future of Foxfield has been ensured,” Cowles said, noting the Scott bequeathed the property to the National Trust for Historic alignment with Tejeda’s last wishes. Preservation. The $75,000 Mariann de Tejeda grade 2 hurdle handicap named in her honor Scott was deeply vested in steeplechasing. In 1932, her Troublemaker won is part of the lucrative Sport of Kings series. the Maryland Hunt Cup; in 1938, her Battleship became the first American-bred Race day activities at what Cowles calls a “fall festival atmosphere” include and -owned horse to win the English Grand National. a huge vendor village, an active kids’ zone, food trucks, a college row for tailgate She first ran the Montpelier Races in 1929. tent parties, and more. Marion duPont Scott and her brother William duPont, Jr. developed a 72nd Virginia Fall Races number of racing venues in the mid-1900s, including Delaware Park, which he Saturday, October 10, 12:30 p.m., Glenwood Park, Middleburg designed in 1937; Fair Hill, a training center and longtime home to the National (540) 687-9797 • vafallraces.com Steeplechase Association headquarters on more than 5,000 acres donated to the Glenwood Park is the oldest continuous racecourse in active use in Virginia. state of Maryland by the duPonts; and the Springdale Racecourse in Camden, Established in 1911, the property is protected in perpetuity through a conservation South Carolina, a training center and home of the Carolina Cup and Colonial Cup easement and situated amidst hunt country just one mile from the traffic light in races. Middleburg. Scott’s legacy lives on at the Marion duPont Scott Equine Medical Center It is testament to the legacy of its last private owner, Dan Sands, a lifelong in Leesburg which opened in 1983. foxhunter and sportsman with deep ties to Virginia hunt country. In addition to the full afternoon of racing, Montpelier offers a fall festival In 1955, the inaugural meet was conceived by George Ohrstrom, Russ with terrier races, stick-pony races for kids, a vendor row and classic car and Arundel, and Alec Mackay-Smith. The races made, and have continued to make, carriage parades. charitable contributions to the local Loudoun Hospital. montpelierraces.org More than $275,000 in purses in eight races is at stake at this year’s running,
IN & AROUND HORSE COUNTRY • FALL 2026
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JUNIORS Camden Hunt to Host the JNAFHC Finals, March 5-6, 2027 By Carla Babcock
The finals for the 2026-2027 Junior Field Hunter Championship will be hosted by Camden Hunt in Camden, South Carolina, March 5 & 6, 2027. Mark Jump photo
Mark your calendars for March 5 & 6, 2027, as the Camden Hunt in Camden, South Carolina, prepares to host one of the most anticipated events in the equestrian calendar—the Junior North American Field Hunter Championship (JNAFHC). In its 23rd season, this prestigious championship offers a unique platform for junior foxhunters to showcase their skills and passion for the sport, while also promoting camaraderie, sportsmanship, and land stewardship among the next generation. Field hunting is a time-honored equestrian tradition, rooted in adventure, teamwork, and an appreciation for the countryside. The Junior North American Field Hunter Championship invites juniors ages 18 and under to qualify during the hunt season and come prepared to demonstrate their skills in various challenges inspired by the sport. The Camden Hunt is rolling out a weekend of Southern hospitality surely not to be missed. Plans include a welcome dinner for juniors and their families with traditional Lowcountry fare, guest hunting, a hunter pace, an evening of dessert and shopping at the renowned Tack Room, and tailgating ringside for the final tests. These are all wrapped around two days of junior competition in field hunting, horn blowing, whip cracking, and hound judging. The Saturday evening Awards Dinner will be set against the backdrop of the National Steeplechase Museum with its priceless library, artwork, silver, and history. Stabling will be located at the South Carolina Equine Park. As we look forward to the 2026-27 season, hunts around the U.S. and Canada are submitting dates for their Qualifiers and encouraging juniors to participate in kennel and hound activities as well. Website updates are in progress, and there will be announcements on the FB page soon. An official “Rules & Guidelines” of the JNAFHC will be available September 1st. If you are new to the JNAFHC and want more info, check out the website—www.JNAFHC.com—or contact Carla Babcock at carla.babcock09@gmail.com or Lea Blanco at leablanco1964@aol.com. The list of requirements for eligibility, which juniors work on during the season, include: • • •
•
Age - 18 & younger as of August 1, 2026. Be a junior member of a Hunt or Pony Club affiliated with a Hunt. Successfully complete a junior log including: 1 Qualifier, 5 hunts, 3 hound/kennel activities (mounted or unmounted). “Junior Log” may be found on the website and FB. Complete the requirements on the horse or pony you plan to ride in the Championship, with the initials of your joint master or DC, and attach to the entry form for the Championship.
Important Deadlines: • • •
All Qualifiers to be held by December 31, 2026. The championship entry form will be available January 1, 2027. Completed entry forms by February 1, 2027.
IN & AROUND HORSE COUNTRY • FALL 2026
8 JENNY’S PICKS Usually by now we have information on the latest Sister Jane series by Rita Mae Brown, and we advertise a booksigning for it. A check with the publisher’s internet revealed that we will not be getting a new one until February 23! Its title is Pawsible Suspects, and it will retail at $32.00. No clue as to the plot. Since I have no new books to offer at this time, I thought I’d submit a brief list of foxhunting books that were just consigned to us for sale. Some of them deal with foxhound breeding, with information on some of the early lines in both English and American foxhounds.
bumped. Black cover title. #6579 $99.00
HORSE COUNTRY Second copy of above: Autographed, not numbered. Has B O O K S E L L E R S included two photocopies of foxhounds and information Specialists in New, Old & Rare Books on Horses, Foxhunting, Eventing, Polo, Racing, Steeplechasing & Sporting Art 60 Alexandria Pike, Warrenton, VA 20186
800-882-HUNT • 540-347-3141
Beckford, Peter. Thoughts on Hunting. Derrydale Press, edition, numbered 18 and signed, but no info on how many Lanham & New York, 2000. Fine condition, as if unread. books were in that edition. Unpaginated. Very good con#6565 $35.00 dition, clean and tight. No dj as published. Reproductions of the artist’s lovely sketches of West Highland White TerBell, Isaac. Foxiana. Country Life, London, and Charles riers appear to be originally in pencil. #6572 $65.00 Scribner’s Sons, New York, 1929. Illustrations by G. D. Armour. Fair condition; several plates are loose from book Hardaway, Benjamin H. III. Never Outfoxed. Self-puband top half of spine is torn. Interior is clean and, except lished, 1997. Very good condition, clean and tight, includfor the 2 plates, appears sound. #6566 $75.00 ing dj. Former owner penciled in notes on good hound conformation on blank page after p. 377. #6573 $125.00 Bradley, Cuthbert. The Foxhound of the Twentieth Century. George Routledge & Sons, London, 1914. Good con- Higginson, Alexander H. An Old Sportsman’s Memories. dition, no dj. Red leather part of cover worn, corners Blue Ridge Press, Berryville, VA, 1951. Very good, sound bumped. Minor page discoloration on some of pages, but binding and clean interior. Bumped corners, wrinkle on basically clean and sound interior. Bookplate on front in- spine at bottom. side cover. #6567 $150.00 #6574 $35.00 Buchanan-Jardine, John. Hounds of the World. Methuen & Co, London, 1937. 2nd ed. Fine condition, no dj. Tissue over plates is ragged but otherwise book is in great shape. $125 is penciled price. Contents include French, British, and a couple of pages of American hounds. #6568 $125.00 Budgett, H.M. Hunting by Scent. Charles Scribner’s Sons, New York, n.d., probably in conjunction with same book by Eyre & Spottiswood in London. Preface dated September, 1933. Includes 12 illustrations by Lionel Edwards and b&w photos. Book is in fine condition, but dj has multiple tears. Inscription on front flyleaf. #6569 $25.00
FALL HUNTER PACE SCHEDULE
Ryan, Thady. My Privileged Life with the Scarteen Black and Tans. Derrydale Press, Lanham and New York, 2002. Like new condition except for previous owner’s name written on dedication page. #6581 $69.00 Somerville, E., and Martin Ross. Notes of the Horn/ Hunting Verse, Old and New. Charles Scribners Sons, New York, 1934. Illus. with b&w foxhunting art by various sporting artists. Poor condition, but sound. Missing half the spine cover; edges and corners worn. Discolored endpapers and first title page. #6582 $20.00 Stanford, J. K. Fox Me – The Story of a Cub. Geoffrey Bles, London, 1958. Illustrations by Jane Fellowes. Very good condition, no dj. Clean and sound. A novel written from the viewpoint of a young fox raised as an orphan cub by humans and later life in the wild. #6583 $15.00
Stewart, F.A. Hark to Hounds. Collins, London, 1937. Poor condition; badly battered and discolored cover, some foxing interior pages. Previous owner’s bookplate inside Higginson, A. Henry. British and American Sporting Au- front cover. Contains color plates and b&w sketches by thors. Hutchinson & Co, London, 1951. Good cond., no the author. #6584 $25.00 dj. Cover worn w/bumped corners and some stains. Some foxing on endpapers but interior is otherwise clean and Thomas, Joseph B. Hounds and Hunting Through the sound. Has bookplate inside front cover and writing on the Ages, Derrydale Press, Lanham and New York, no date. opposite page. Front endpaper appears to have been torn Fine condition, no dj. #6585 $25.00 Also have one w/dj and plastic cover, very good condition. out. #6575 $50.00 #6586 $25.00
Mackay-Smith, Alexander. The American Foxhound 1747-1967. American Foxhound Club, 1968. #135 of 1,000. Autographed, no dj as published. Very good condition, lightly frayed corners and rubbed cover edges; cover has some light scratches and a dark spot on back. De Trafford, Sir Humphrey, ed. The Foxhounds of Great Sound binding, clean interior. #6576 $125.00 Britain and Ireland, Their Masters and Huntsmen. Walter Southwood & Co, London, 1906. Good condition, red Mackay-Smith, Alexander. Masters of Foxhounds. leather spine and corners, red cloth with gilt foxhounds in MFHA, Richmond, VA, 1980. Autographed. #152 of 750. horseshoe on front cover, gilt title & insignia on ribbed Near-fine condition, clean, lightly bumped corners. #6577 spine. Interior clean and sound. Color frontispiece of two $50.00 foxhounds. 6 plates, all intact. Folio size. #6570 $95.00 Also, second copy, similar condition, except miniscule Gilbey, Walter. Hounds in Old Days. Vinton & Co., Lon- foxing spots on back end pages, and unnumbered. #6578 don, 1913. Very good condition, some bumps to spine ends $50.00 & corners. Clean and sound interior, some discoloration on 2nd endpapers. Deals with the development of the Eng- Mackay-Smith, Alexander. American Foxhunting/An lish hound strains. #6571 $69.00 Anthology. American Foxhound Club, Millwood, VA, 1970. Autographed. #442 of 2500 copies. Near-fine conHands, Barbara. A Westie Sketchbook. Privately printed dition, clean and tight. Slight wear on corners but not by Bernard Kaymar Ltd, Preston, (GB), undated. Standard
VRSVA September 13, 9:00 am Clifton House, 17339 Madison Hwy www.rehab.vet • hollyuhler@gmail.com 540-480-0025 Deep Run Hunt Club September 20, 9:00 am Fairfield Farm, 3875 Big Hickory Dr., Goochland DeepRunHuntClub.com marsh.davis7400@gmail.com 804-240-7400 Bull Run Hunt September 27, 9:00 am Highlands, 23042 Cedar Mountain Dr., Rapidan BullRunHuntClub.com • 540-272-5237 Keswick Hunt Club October 4, 9:00 am Bridlespur Farm, 233 Bridlespur Farm, Keswick EquineWelfareSociety.org • ews.keswick@gmail.com 561-601-9531
handwritten on the back of one with information on the Birdsong line of hounds. This issue has a red cover title rather than the black one on Copy 1. Clean, very good condition, tightly bound. #6580 $99.00
Warrenton Hunt October 11, 10:00 am Millpoint Farm, 8714 Springs Road, Warrenton WarrentonHunt.com • BootsJanet@gmail.com Janet Boots 703-927-8532 Rappahannock Hunt October 18, 10:00 am Pine Rock, 6553 Glebe Way, Reva RappahannockHunt.com • 703-509-6151 Mandi Dillpon rappahannockhuntsecretary@gmail.com Princess Anne Hunt October 25, 9:00 am PAH Kennels, 12200 Tyler’s Mill Rd., Charles City PrincessAnneHunt.com • 804-408-4544 Jsantos@princessannehunt.com Farmington Hunt Club November 1, 9:00 am The Barracks, 518 Barracks Farm Rd., C‘ville FarmingtonHunt.org • 434-566-8561 Nancy.Howell@yahoo.com
Trigg, Haiden C. The American Fox-Hound. Privately published, preface dated January 1, 1890. Well-worn. Front flyleaf torn off and a small tear on one page. Previous owner’s info in pen on next page. This book traces the pedigrees of some early American foxhound breeds, the Trigg, Birdsong, and Maupin lines. There are a few b&w photos and a genealogical chart. #6587 $275.00 Van Urk, J. Blan. The Story of American Foxhunting, Vol. 1. Derrydale Press, New York, 1940. Ltd. ed. of 950 copies but not numbered. Fine condition, looks unread except for plastic bookmarks on several pages. Vol. 2. Same info except dated 1941. Same condition. #6588. Sold as pair only for $350.00 Williams, Roger D. Horse and Hound. Self-published, Lexington, KY, 1908. 3rd edition. Poor condition. Cover loose from pages. Heavily used. B&w photos of foxhunting in America. Williams was MFH of the Iroquois hunt. #6589 $15.00
Old Dominion Hounds November 8, 10:30 am Hungry Run Farm, 40 Hungry Run Farm Lane, Amissville • TheOldDominionHounds.com kcpoe@earthlink.net • 540-270-3585 General Information: Teams will compete over well marked courses that are approximately 5-7 miles. All jumps are optional and can be ridden around or through a gate. Register online with each individual club Entry Fees: $50 adult/$25 juniors Divisions and Awards: Hunt division - Jumping, open to all Pleasure division - on the flat Junior division - At least one team member must be 16 or under Teams are judged on optimum time for each division Ribbons/prizes awarded first through fourth place Series end awards to teams with the most points Misc. Details: Attire is casual. Safety helmets are required. Signed waivers required. Light snacks/drinks provided, bring water for horses. Unsound horses will not be allowed to participate Negative Coggins for each horse required. No dogs allowed.
FOX DEMITASSE SPOON SETS Boxed in a velvet lined case. Set of six (two sets available, each set sold separately). #9330-003 (HC1A)
FURNITURE QUALITY BOOT & CROP RACK 45" Tall x 33" Wide. #9375-001 (HC1B)
HORN SALT AND PEPPER 5.25". Sterling Silver. Garrards 1950s. #2518-017 (HC1C)
PAUL BROWN PLATES Fanciful names like Capping 'em on, The Good Samaritan, and others. 10.5" dinner plates. 2 sets of 12. #2353-050; #18670212 (HC1D)
China, Crystal and Charm – Equestrian Antiques Await
PYRITE HORSESHOE RING 14k gold with Pyrite. (HC1E)
FOXMASK PIN 1.75". Diamond eyes. 15k gold & platinum bar. #1867-1024-01 (HC1G) HOUND HEAD CUFFLINKS 14k with diamond eyes. #1025-039 (HC1F)
CARVED HORSESHOE MIRROR 29"L x 22"W. Five hooks. #999-1114-001 (HC1H)
IMPRESSIVE FOXHEAD CRYSTAL NECKLACE 14" sterling vintage chain. #1025-036 (HC1J)
Horse Country® (540) 347-3141
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LADIES' CHATHAM LC57 Cream Italian cotton. Suede storm tab. Sizes 4 -18 (HC2F) $895.00
LADIES' CHATHAM LC58 Light blue melange. Sizes 6 -18 (HC2G) $895.00
WAVERLY BLACK & TAN BOOTS Available in Men's & Ladies. Regular, Slim, Wide, and Xwide calf sizes. Waverly Tan (HC2K) $945.00 Waverly Black (HC2L) $945.00
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LADIES' CHATHAM LC59 Dark Green/Blue Herringbone. Sizes 6 -18 (HC2H) $895.00
LADIES' CHATHAM LC61 Light Green Pink/Purple/Green Plaid. Sizes 6 -18 (HC2J) $895.00
GABBY COMPRESSION BREECH Tan. Mid-rise. Silicone knee patch. Sizes 22 - 36. #327-LBKP022 (HC2M) $190.00
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MTV21 TATTERSAL VEST / WAISTCOAT Wool with satin back. Navy, Gold and Olive tattersal. Sizes 36 - 48 Reg. & Long, (HC3A) $289.00
MEN'S CHATHAM MC37 Gold, Olive and Orange Puppytooth. Sizes 40 - 46 (HC3E) $895.00
MEN'S CHATHAM MC38 Cream Italian cotton. Suede storm tab. Sizes 38 - 48 (HC3F) $895.00
MASON BREECH Sand. Modern silicone knee patch. Sizes 28 - 40. #1149-MB010 (HC3K) $239.00
CHESTER GLOVES BY ROECKL® Very fine synthetic leather. Choose Brown, White, or Black. Sizes 6.5 - 10 (HC3J) $69.95 each
MEN'S VICMEAD MV18 MEN'S VICMEAD MV19 Green with Blue/Black windowpane. Tightly woven material. Sizes 36 - 48 (HC3G) $995.00 Blue, some short, reg. & long. Sizes 36 - 50 (HC3H) $950.00
MEN'S PERTH THREE-BUCKLE FIELD BOOTS Steer hide. Buckle/lace. Sizes 7.5 - 11 #1047-002 (HC3M) $1695.00
BLENHEIM ALFORD 1" BELT Made in England. Hand-stitched best bridle leather. Choose from Chestnut, Newmarket or Black. Sizes 26 - 44. #3289-BLEN-08 (HC3L) $195.00
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VICMEAD WHITE HUNT SHIRT Made in England. Lightweight, 100% Cotton. Available in Men's & Ladies' (HC4E) $250.00
LONDON FROCK COATS Made in England. Medium weight twill cloth. Satin lining with satin lined skirt. Available in Men's & Ladies'. Choose Black or Navy. (HC4A) $1350.00
MOLESKIN CANARY VESTS Made in England. Cotton Moleskin front & back. Available in Men's & Ladies' (HC4F) Starting at $299.00
RWR NO KNOT HAIRNET Two hairnets per package with scrunchie. Choose the color that best matches your hair color #2039-467991 (HC4G) $15.95
NEW GRAFTON II PINK FROCK COAT Made in England. Light-Mid weight. Satin lining, satin lined skirt. Available in Men's & Ladies'. (HC4B) $1350.00
OAKLEY PINK FROCK COAT Made in England. Medium weight. Satin lining. Lined waterproof skirt. Available in Men's & Ladies'. (HC4C) $1350.00
CLARKE#3 CROCHET GLOVES 100% cotton. Unisex. Heavyweight. Tan or White. Sizes 5 - 11. Tan #1970-CGE White #1970-CGW (HC4H) $52.95
FORMAL WHITE STOCK TIES Made in England. Available in 3 British fabrics. Visit us online or call for details. horsecountrycarrot.com
WATERLOO TAN TOP & WOODLEY DRESS BOOTS Available in Men's & Ladies'. Regular, Slim, Wide & Xwide calf sizes. Waterloo Tan Top (HC4J) $899.00 Woodley Dress (HC4K) $899.00
CHAGRIN HUNT COATS Made in England. Medium weight twill cloth. Satin lined body. Available in Men's & Ladies'. Choose Black or Navy. (HC4D) $795.00
ORSE COUNTRY® 540-347-3141 HC4 H All prices subject to change without notice. All items subject to availability. IAHC 08-2026
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Shop online! www.HorseCountryCarrot.com FIRST FLIGHT HUNT BRIDLE Available in Cob, Horse, XL, & XXL. #98-962-001 (HC5J) Starting at $560.00
WOOLBACK SADDLE PAD Made from virgin wool pile fabric. Available in half & full flap. Sizes 17"-19.5" (HC5A) Starting at $179.95
SUPERQUILT PAD Made in the USA. Available in half & full flap. Sizes 14"-18+" (HC5B) Starting at $89.99 5/A BAKER® IRISH ANTI-SWEAT SHEET Made in America. Sizes 72 - 82. #282-7011NY (HC5C) $144.99
first flight tack Made in England Heavy superior quality. Matches all First Flight tack in color, stitching & leather. Stainless steel buckles, snaps, and ring.
FF FIVE-POINT LEATHER BREASTPLATE Available in Cob, Horse, and Oversize. #962-264B-HCRB (HC5K) $375.00
PLAIN SILVER SINGLE COLLAR HUNT CROP Available in Men's, Ladies' or Child's size. (HC5D) Starting at $345.00
ENGLISH STYLE KANGAROO LEATHER HUNT THONG Made especially for Horse Country®. 12 plait with 4 plait inner. Choose from 5' or 6' lengths. Five Foot #HT-001-98 (HC5E) $395.00 Six Foot #HT-002-98 (HC5F) $410.00
GENTLEMEN'S LARGE CRYSTAL FLASK AND CASE Made in England. Available in two sizes (HC5G) $930.00 Medium #HA-962-005 Large #HA-962-002
CHESTNUT BRIDLE HIP FLASKS Made in England. Starting at $89.00. (HC5H) 4 oz #3235-044 6 oz #3235-041
HUNT HORNS Plain Nickel, Copper & Banded styles. Various sizes and pricing. Horn cases are also available. See them online or call the store for details.
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JUMPER PADDED LEATHER BREASTPLATE Made in America. Cob #758-32-34 Horse #758-33-34 (HC5L) $176.00
FF RUNNING ATTACHMENT 3/4" & Fully adjustable. Available in Cob, Horse, and Oversize. #962-900 (C,H,X), (HC5M) $89.00 Standing attachment available (not shown)
HEAVY DUTY FOXHOUND COUPLES Made in England. Hound size. #212-012 (HC5N) $95.00
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Shop online! www.HorseCountryCarrot.com VIYELLA SPORT BLAZER TWEED 100% Wool. Brown with Rust. Sizes 38 - 44. Some short, & reg. #1615-BL029 (HC6A) $495.00
MEN'S NEWBURY FUR FELT OLIVE Made in England. #1170-E95-OLV (HC6B) $135.00
MEN'S BARBOUR® HERITAGE LIDDESDALE GREEN Sizes M - XXL #4-MQ0240GN (HC6C) $240.00 NEW BARBOUR® HEPSCOTT VEST OLIVE 100% Leather Trim (Bovine). Sizes SM - XL. #4-MG0319OL (HC6D) $210.00
NEW GENUINE HORSE COUNTRY T-SHIRTS Unisex. 100% Cotton. Available in Blue, Green & Black. Sizes SM - XL. (HC6F) $10.95
MEN'S VIYELLA® SHIRT V68 20% Merino Wool, 80% Cotton. Green Plaid. Sizes M - XXL. #1615-655V68 (HC6E) $180.00
CLAYPOOL SHOOTING GLOVE Made in Italy. Unisex. Sizes 6.5 - 11. #1898-U8(3,4) (HC6H) $140.00
MEN'S FINLEY SHOOTING VEST OLIVE 100% cotton twill. Fully lined. Sizes SM - XL. #1833-MV0001A, (HC6G) $239.95
PHEASANT MUFFLERS Wool/Silk. Made in Italy. 69" x 26". (HC6K) $220.00 each Black #1450-MM715B Wine #1450-MM715A Olive #1450-MM715C GENUINE SHOT SHELL BELT 1 1/4” English bridle leather. #876-2151 (HC6J) $73.50
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Shop online! www.HorseCountryCarrot.com BARBOUR® WAXED LINNEA JACKET Navy. Cut to mid length. Adjustable sleeves. Hidden 2-way zip. Sophisticated mock horn buttons. Storm throat tab. Tartan check interior. Sizes 6 - 14. #4-LW1270NY (HC7B) $400.00
CAYENNE TATTERSAL BUTTON-UP SHIRT 100% Cotton. Brown Rust Blue Gold. Sizes SM - XXL. #1450-5339002 (HC7A) $225.00 NEW WESTERN BLUE TOILE SHIRT Offers a flattering fitted shape. Size XS - LG. #1938-LCS010 (HC7E) $79.95
BARBOUR® NEW STYLISH CHECK BLAZER & VEST Wisteria Blazer. Sizes 8 - 12. #4-LT0130BL (HC7C) $450.00 Petunia Vest. Sizes 6 -12 #4-LT0131BL (HC7D) $350.00
CODY DENIM STRETCH ZIP SHIRT Sizes XS - XXL. #1938-LCS000 (HC7F) $69.95
ITALIAN LEATHER SADDLE HANDBAGS Tan 11.5" x 8.5" x 3" Lt. Brown 7" x 5.5" x 2" Tan #3461-SAD-PAO (HC7H) $995.00 Small Lt. Brown #3461-SAD-SML (HC7J) $825.00 ROCKMOUNT BLUE BRONCS SILK SCARF #3328-4112-DEN (HC7G) $70.00
5/A BAKER PLAID LUGGAGE Trimmed with the finest quality leather. Garment Bag #3077-BORGBAG (HC7K) $229.00 Helmet Bag #1486-33164 (HC7L) $217.95 Duffle Bag #124-DB&S (HC7M) $365.00 Boot Bag #282-7040 (HC7N) $286.00
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MEAD CASUAL RIDING BOOTS These boots easily go from barn to town. Designed with waterproof and breathable material. Choose Black or Brown. Euro size 37 - 42. Black #2039-470820A (HC7P) $258.95 Brown #2039-470820B (HC7Q) $258.95
HORSE COUNTRY® 540-347-3141 HC7 Not responsible for typographical errors. IAHC 08-2026
Shop online! www.HorseCountryCarrot.com BASSETT CANISTER 14.5" x 5.5" x 7" #1899-CAN003 (HC8F) $135.00
ORANGE FAUX LEATHER BIT FRAMES 5 x 7 #1303-FR0030 (HC8A) $92.00 8 x 10 #1303-FR0031 (HC8B) $115.00 ORANGE FAUX LEATHER BOXES Lined with faux microsuede. Small 9" x 5" x 2.5" #1303-BX0012 (HC8C) $69.00 Medium 10" x 6" x 3.5" #1303-BX0011 (HC8D) $75.00
FAUX CONCRETE FOX 26" x 12" x 19.5"t. Indoor or covered outdoor use only. #1899-STA004 (HC8G) $249.00
ORANGE LADIE LEATHER BIT TRAY Equestrian charm at its finest. 15"W x 10"D x 2"H. #1303-TR0031 (HC8E) $182.00
ITALIAN HORSE HEAD MASKS Made in Italy. (HC8H) $165.00 each Bay #974-M535 Grey #974-M534
RESTING BASSETT PLANTER 14" x 5.5" x 7" #1899-CAN003 (HCJ) $135.00
CHIC CAST IRON HORN CANDLE HOLDERS Set of three - 3" x 14", 17", & 19"t #1899-CANS31 (HCK) $95.00
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IN & AROUND HORSE COUNTRY • FALL 2026
OSMUN’S OBSERVATIONS
Claudia Coleman
One Last Observation A fellow knows these things. The naps become a little longer, the walks a little slower, and one begins thinking about old friends who have gone on ahead. I expect they’ve been wondering what’s been keeping me. So, before I leave, there are a few matters of business to attend to. First, Marion...you know where Aga’s treasured “Bones of the Rich and Famous” are safely tucked away. Aga entrusted them to me, and I’ve guarded them faithfully. Please see that they’re presented to the next Horse Country Scottish Terrier. Every Scottie deserves to know the history, the responsibility and, of course, the proper care of such distinguished bones. My bed and blankets will be packed away. My toys will be stored away. My inside and outside water bowls, and my food dishes, will wait patiently for the next recruit. No need to rush. The right Scottie will know when it’s time. I will be joining the Horse Country Scotties who have gone before me. I rather imagine St. Bernard, the official greeter at the Pearly Gates, will probably give me one of those knowing looks that says, “You’re late,” before showing me where Pandore, Aga, Bunsen, and Jamieson have been patiently waiting. I suspect they’ve already organized things properly. After all, once you’re part of Horse Country, you never really stop belonging. Looking back, I truly had a good time. After my show career, I found myself on a Montana ranch. Then came Virginia, a very fine place to be a Scottie, even if every summer seemed just a bit hotter than the one before. I had my own yard to patrol, fields to inspect, squirrels to supervise, and endless adventures to report. I loved stopping for a cool drink from the swimming pool before stretching out in front of the big fan on the back porch, pretending I’d had a very exhausting day. At bedtime, I’d check the situation. Sometimes I’d sleep in my own bed. Other nights, if Marion happened to be in an accommodating mood, I’d convince her there was just enough room for one determined Scottie. And then there were all the people who became part of my life. Kathy faithfully took me on my walks with Tramp and Scruffy. We made quite the procession, and she always knew exactly where I wanted to go. The girls at Horse Country were awfully good to me. They never seemed to finish lunch without a little something finding its way in my direction. I’m sure they thought Marion didn’t notice. I never let on. My veterinarians and all the wonderful girls in the office who looked after me with kindness and gentle hands. Ann and Jean each had a lap that seemed made especially for a Scottie’s pre-dinner nap. Bob, my groomer, recognized right from the beginning what a star I was, and I never let him forget it. And dear Jolie...she took care of me every day and whenever Marion had to be away. Her home became my second home, and she always made sure I felt safe, comfortable, and loved. Every Scottie should be so lucky to have two homes
and two people who cared so much. Jolie and I were brother and sister. There were so many others who scratched my ears, called me handsome, shared a kind word, or simply stopped to say hello. A Scottie notices those things, and I noticed every one of you. Writing this column for the past seven years has been one of the great pleasures of my life. I hope you’ve smiled at my adventures, both real and imagined, laughed at my opinions and perhaps even recognized one of your own dogs in my stories. If I managed to brighten your day now and then, I’d say we’ve both done rather well. Remember the affirmations I live by: Life is good. I am loved every day. I have purpose. I have friends. I have readers. I belong to Horse Country. A Scottie really can’t ask for more than that. So, until another Horse Country Scottie comes marching through the door, this is Osmun signing off. Thank you for sharing these past seven years with me. Keep a cool spot in front of the fan. Drink deeply from the pool when no one’s looking. And never underestimate the importance of a really good bone. Keep your nose to the wind and your tail up. Osmun July, 2026
A Personal Note By now you’ve read Osmun’s final Observation. Like many of you, I wasn’t quite ready for it. For the past seven years, Osmun wasn’t just my Scottie—he became part of the Horse Country family. Through these pages he made friends he never met. Since his passing, I have been overwhelmed by your kindness. Thank you for every card, email, flower, and social media message. Thank you to those who stopped by Horse Country simply to give me a hug, tell me an Osmun story, or share memories of your own companions. Each conversation reminded me that dogs have a remarkable way of bringing people together. A very special thank you goes to Dick and Diane Beck, in Montana, who entrusted me with Osmun and later, Jamieson. Their friendship and generosity gave me two extraordinary Scotties, and for that I will always be grateful. There are many others whose kindness touched his life, and mine. Please know your friendship will always be remembered. People often ask if there will be another Horse Country Scottie. One day, I hope so. No Scottie will ever replace Osmun, just as none ever replaced Pandore, Aga, Bunsen, or Jamieson. Each leaves a paw print entirely their own. When the time is right, another Scottie will find his way to Horse Country. Until then, thank you for loving Osmun as much as I did. With gratitude, Marion
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IN & AROUND HORSE COUNTRY • FALL 2026
Virginia Hunt Week 2026 Enjoy foxhunting and fellowship in historic Virginia hunt countries around the Commonwealth for one fee
Wednesday, October 21 Thursday, October 22 Friday, October 23 Saturday, October 24 Sunday, October 25 Monday, October 26 Tuesday, October 27 Wednesday, October 28 Thursday, October 29 Friday, October 30 Saturday, October 31 Sunday, November 1 Monday, November 2 Tuesday, November 3 Wednesday, November 4
Princess Anne Hunt Deep Run Hunt Thornton Hill Hounds Rappahannock Hunt Caroline Hunt Keswick Hunt Bull Run Hunt Warrenton Hunt Old Dominion Hounds Travel & Shopping at Horse Country Glenmore Hunt Rockbridge Hunt Bedford County Hunt Farmington Hunt Middlebrook Hounds
Dates and locations are subject to change. Registration forms will be available Sept. 1
at www.vahuntweek.org Cost will be $350 for members of participating hunts and $600 for non-members. Details on the website soon. Questions may be directed to Hugh Brown, MFH at brownhh@jmu.edu or 540-290-9868
Timeless Properties. Trusted Representation. Will Driskill (540) 454-7522 wdriskill@thomasandtalbot.com | Social: @willdriskillthomasandtalbot
SOLD
MONTANA FARM 220 acres | $3,895,000
This remarkable 220-acre historic estate in Virginia’s Delaplane countryside has found its new owner. The property features a meticulously restored circa 1852 main residence with hardwood floors, high ceilings, and two fireplaces, plus a circa 1840 stone Patent House, a renovated guest house, and a mountain cabin. With sweeping valley views, frontage along Big Branch, and protection under a Fauquier County Open Space Conservation Easement, this legacy estate offers privacy and character just minutes from I-66. Congratulations to the buyers and sellers.
THOMAS & TALBOT ESTATE PROPERTIES 2 South Madison St. Middleburg, VA 20117 | Office: 540-687-6500 | thomasandtalbot.com
Offers subject to errors, omissions, change of price or withdrawal without notice. Information contained herein is deemed reliable, but is not so warranted nor is it otherwise guaranteed.
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IN & AROUND HORSE COUNTRY • FALL 2026
REMEMBRANCE Dr. G. Marvin Beeman, MFH
he was elected president of the Masters of Foxhounds Association. In that role, he carried on the MFHA’s Centennial Celebration activities launched under his predecessor Mason Lampton’s term. Another note of distinction came in 2017 when the Museum of Hounds & Hunting inducted Marvin into the Huntsman’s Hall of Fame, joining his father who was inducted in 2001, making them the only father and son to be so honored. The recognition Marvin received through his work in leadership positions throughout the veterinary and equine industries as well as in the agricultural field is legion. The plaques and statuettes attributing to his lifelong devotion to service could fill an entire wall. Marvin Beeman’s life was a testament to his devotion to family, service to others, and his never-ending effort to advance developments in equine health and wellness, not just in Colorado but throughout the world.
April 13, 1933 - June 14, 2026 Born in Sedalia, Colorado, in 1933, Marvin Beeman was destined to spend his life working with horses and hounds, contributing significant benefits to equine health, and mentoring countless admirers with his wisdom and gentle counsel. His family moved to the Arapahoe Hunt kennels in 1934 where his father, George, served as professional huntsman. With two years of riding experience, Marvin began hunting with an uncle at the age of six. He was made gate-boy at the age of nine and when 1943 saw the rest of the hunt staff called to military service, Marvin began whipping-in to his father, who had become the huntsman by then, at the age of ten. That arrangement would continue for the next 42 years, at which point the roles reversed. Along the way, Marvin developed an affinity, and an impressive skill, for polo. Under the tutelage of Arapahoe Hunt’s founder, Lawrence C. Phipps, Jr., MFH, he broke and made hunters and polo ponies and carried a three-goal handicap for many years. When Marvin graduated from veterinary school in 1955, he and his wife Eunie returned to Arapahoe where they both served as whippers-in to George Beeman. In time, their two children, Laurie and Grant, would also become part of the crew. When Marvin began carrying the horn in 1986, all three whipped-in to him. This was the same year Arapahoe Hunt and their English Hounds moved to a new territory that features 30,000 acres of rolling plains, notable for constant wind and few trees. When someone would remark on the absence of trees in the vast open country, Marvin would reply with a playful twinkle, “Oh, no, we have plenty of trees. And I know where all six of them are.” Shortly after graduating from vet school, Mar-
Dr. G. Marvin Beeman, MFH April 13, 1933 - June 14, 2026 Zina Balash Photo
vin signed on with the Littleton Large Animal Clinic. Over time, he helped build what would become the renowned Littleton Equine Medical Center. Over the course of nearly seven decades, he earned a reputation for excellence in equine medicine, particularly in the diagnosis and treatment of lameness and musculoskeletal conditions. Four years after taking on the Huntsman role, Marvin was elected Joint Master at Arapahoe. In 2008
E. Sue Bopp Agent Equine Division
Mark Jump: “I photograph foxhunts around the country but rarely see the game. To my delight, I recently discovered a pair of gray foxes living nearby that frequently visit my home. Tally-ho from my front porch.”
400 Rosedale Court Warrenton, VA 20186
800-347-3552 Ext. 2805, Office 540-272-4101, Mobile esbopp@marshallsterling.com
Saddle Fitting
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IN & AROUND HORSE COUNTRY • FALL 2026
ADVENTURE
Where the Roads End, Wildness Begins Eight Virginia Foxhunters Went Looking for Africa on Horseback. What They Found Was Trust—In Their Horses, In Their Guides, and in Each Other. Article and Photos By Betsy Burke Donley
Ten horses. Thick bush. A trumpet blast that stopped conversation mid-sentence. “Turn.” It wasn’t shouted. Our guide delivered the command as calmly as if he were asking us to do a forward-reverse on a quiet hunt morning back home. The horses wheeled in unison, transforming the loose walking line into a single-file sprint through the Botswana wildlands. There wasn’t time to feel afraid. Only time to ride. Four minutes later, when we at last slowed to a walk, every riding lesson I’d learned over a halfcentury of foxhunting, decades of Pony Club, and thousands of miles of conditioning hacks suddenly made perfect sense. How eight Virginia foxhunters wound up fleeing through the Botswana bush on safari horses we’d grown to trust in just three days—trying very hard not to become an elephant statistic—is a story that reaches back two years. Around a tailgate with friends from Old Dominion Hounds, conversation about “someday” took shape as a real itinerary. We knew we wanted more than sightseeing. We wanted to discover Africa from horseback, where there are no roads to follow and no windshield separating you from the landscape. Insight from fellow foxhunters who’d already made the trip pointed us toward Horizon Horseback’s two-country safari through South Africa and Botswana. Each offered the same input: the horses were exceptional, the wildlife unforgettable, and we’d better arrive fit. “Be able to ride a bit,” one friend told us with a grin. “Be ready to gallop faster than you ever have.” We laughed. Secretly, we wondered if they were serious. We took their words to heart and spent the next two years preparing for the trip. By the time our flight lifted off from Washington Dulles on the first Saturday in May, our group had logged countless training miles across Virginia hunt country. We knew each other’s riding styles. We trusted one another’s judgment. We were seasoned horsemen and women, experienced travelers, but what none of us knew was how different it feels to ride where the animals have never learned to fear fences— and where the biggest thing in the woods outweighs your horse by a factor of 20. Entering a foreign landscape where familiar riding instincts still matter, that sense of scale would change everything. South African Rhythm The first surprise came before we ever reached the stable. As our shuttle left Johannesburg behind and rolled toward the rural Waterberg region northeast of the city, someone spotted warthogs rooting beside the highway. A few miles later another called out, “Giraffe!” The game list had started before check-in. We’d left Virginia’s dogwoods and spring green fields behind. South Africa autumn was turning to winter—cool mornings, warm afternoons, and wildlife on the move before the southern hemisphere dry season settled in. The further north we drove, the fewer fences we saw. Eventually there were none except 20-foothigh dividers between private conservancies incorporating tens of thousands of acres.
IN & AROUND HORSE COUNTRY • FALL 2026
Horizon’s Waterberg headquarters looked exactly as I’d hoped. Dozens of horses, glowing with condition, lounged in a pen outside a handsome stucco stable while others browsed across a pasture so large it disappeared into the horizon. A small herd of zebra grazed among them as if horse and zebra had never been separate ideas. Our South Africa guides piled us and our luggage into a small open-top Toyota they had to push down a slope and pop the clutch to start. Motor rumbling, we turned back uphill, bumping along a rutted road (the guides called it African massage) as we began logging types of antelope on our growing list—from the half-ton eland to the small springbok. Molly and Morapedi showed us private canvas tented rooms at Camp Davidson elevated on wooden decks built into a sandstone ridge high above the game-filled plain below. We settled into a rhythm that continued throughout the journey: Eat, ride, rest, repeat. One in our group scared a lizard out of her wash basin when she walked in her quarters, another shooed a monkey off his deck. From the unfamiliar bird calls that first dusk to the Southern Cross rising as the sun set, we’d flipped to a side of the world literally opposite of ours. The wildlife list spilled to a second page before we’d unpacked our duffels. Our horses, mostly native boerperds, were picking grass in a small lot a dozen yards from the dining tent. We could see piles of tack along with hay and grain in a small hut by the hitching post. Safari horses are valued for sturdiness and steadiness: Hardy. Forward not hot, sensible not dull, and wholly unbothered by wildlife. A pair of antelope viciously hooking horns by the trail barely caused my horse, Blox, to flick an ear on that first afternoon trek. Riding on Horizon’s safari trips may not require polished show-ring equitation but crossing un-manicured terrain at speed calls for confidence and competence—an independent seat, quiet hands and enough balance not to unravel when a giraffe explodes out of the bush. Over several days we crossed and crisscrossed the conservancy, covering country impossible to reach by vehicle. We explored miles of Camp Davidson outback, then shifted to Savannah Lodge. The plain literally teemed with animals—intimate groups of native Cape buffalo (the first checkmark on our Africa Big Five list), pairs and trios of comically unwieldy ostrich and thousands in herds large and small representing many of South Africa’s 35 antelope species. Savannah is also home to the conservancy’s proudly re-introduced black rhinos. Morapedi taught us how to read the bush as we tracked our second Big Five. He inspected roughly snapped branches, gestured to giant three-toed tracks, and circled our group to inspect a fresh communal midden mound of rhino manure he said told a story in itself. We rounded the bend just in time to see four of the seven casually lope across the trail ten yards ahead. More evidence we weren’t on a hack at home, a few minutes later a porcupine briefly joined a particularly spirited gallop as we returned to Horizon headquarters for the next leg of our trip. A short bush flight later, Botswana would raise the stakes. Botswana: A Different Drumbeat The Mashatu Game Reserve occupies one of the last untouched regions in southern Africa, hundreds of thousands of acres at the corner of Botswana, Zimbabwe, and South Africa. More than 98 percent of the nation remains undeveloped, protected by a strong national conservation philosophy that values low-volume eco-tourism. Here, no fences separate the state-owned and -protected animals from people. The wild belongs to wildlife. Visitors simply borrow it for a little while. Guides Thapelo and Poloko grew up in rural villages not far from Horizon’s Botswana base camp along the Limpopo River. Over sandwiches and sweet tea offered on the shaded veranda upon arrival, we were mesmerized by a pair of nostrils—nothing but nostrils, moving upstream. It was a hippo, Thapelo said, the eerily disembodied nose of a one-ton creature too dense to float, too thick to
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swim, using the smooth, sandy river bottom as a private viaway. A 12-foot crocodile lay on the opposite bank, so still it took a second glance before my brain stopped calling it a log. At the adjacent stable, less historic but equally workmanlike, we were matched to a new set of horses. My Wilson was a little bigger, more refined than Blox but the same measure of trustworthy plus bold. A truck went ahead with our gear and the cooks while we struck off cross-country to Tree Camp. We turned another page on our game list on the first morning, delighting at springhares, tiny kangaroo-like rodents bounding through the grass, transfixed by Botswana’s national bird, the Kori Bustard, making lazy loops riding a cool savanna current high above. Elephant tracks, some larger than serving platters, dotted nearly every trail. Thapelo noticed. He gestured. He noticed everything, pointing out a big cat print, a lion. “Male,” Thapelo said. We nodded. We rode on. We tally-ho’ed a bat-eared fox near a narrow massif. We watched a tailless rock hyrax scuttle up a granite outcrop as Poloko captivated us with African lore of how the hyrax missed his tail assignment from the creator due to a mix-up in time. We relaxed into the now-familiar cadence. Ride sunup to lunch. Rest through the hottest hours. Saddle up as the afternoon light softened. Supper beneath the trees. Stories around the fire. Then bed and impossibly sound sleep, knowing dawn would come early and so would the horses. Over sundowners that first evening on Tree Camp’s elevated platforms, built high among ancient mashatu and leadwood trees, Thapelo nodded to a procession of elephants—Big Five, check—making their way down to the river below us. Poloko mentioned, almost in passing, that a young male lion had wandered through the horse paddock while he was on night watch the week before. He sat beside the campfire with a bullwhip across his knees, ready if the horses needed him, watching the scene unfold. The horses never stirred. Neither, apparently, had he. He told the story without drama, the way someone back home might mention a raccoon in the chicken coop. It made his personal Big Five encounter more reassuring than alarming. By the second evening, novelty had quietly given way to trust. We trusted the horses. We trusted the guides. We trusted that they both read the bush in ways we never would. Elephant Encounter We spent two nights at Kgotla camp sleeping in individual pods encircling the campfire and staying within bounds of a lion-high, elephant-strong stockade fence unless escorted by a guide. It’s beautiful country but filled with danger. Next morning, we saddled for our last ride of our last day. We were mostly quiet, reflective and pensive taking a last, lingering look at the wild that had allowed us in. Within the hour we’d be at base camp. We’d untack, give our horse a grateful pat and the apple core from lunch, and begin the long journey home.
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IN & AROUND HORSE COUNTRY • FALL 2026
The trail narrowed through a thick woodland. Calling it a forest almost feels generous. The trees weren’t especially tall, but they formed dense cover exactly the right height to conceal something enormous. Like an elephant. Without warning, the bush to our left exploded. A massive bull emerged, ears spread wide, trunk raised, trumpeting with unmistakable irritation. Our guides had been on alert—the tell was the bullwhip ready in Thapelo’s hand, but more danger soon became evident. Hidden in thicker vegetation to our right were four cows circling their young calves protectively. We’d split the herd. Nobody screamed. Nobody panicked. Everybody left cameras in pockets, shortened the reins enough but not too much, and sank deeper into our heels. “If I say turn, turn,” Poloko spoke quietly from the rear. “The bull is bluffing,” Thapelo said calmly, raising his clenched fist in the universal signal for the line to halt. We stopped. He kept going. After a quick glance toward the females, he added words that changed the equation. “Watch the cows.” We got the message. Protective mothers with calves presented the greater danger. Suddenly elephants seemed to occupy every direction. The bull trumpeted again. Everything happened in seconds. Thapelo booted his horse into a bold canter to meet the bull emerging from the trees. The crack of his whip shattered the air like a rifle shot. The bull elephant hesitated. One heartbeat. “Turn,” Poloko said. We did. Decades of instructors chanting the same fundamentals suddenly became priceless. Heels down. Eyes up. Strength through softness. Add leg. My body responded before my brain caught up. We turned as one. Dust. Hooves on sand, percussive scrambles over a rock outcrop, then sand again. Time froze. If I’d ever wondered before, now I understood exactly how small I was. African elephants weigh several tons. They run far faster than most people realize. They pivot with astonishing agility. Whether the bull truly intended to charge or merely wanted us away from his herd hardly mattered in the moment. We crossed a dry riverbed into open country at a gallop. Poloko risked a look back as we slowed to a walk and each rider by turn marked themselves safe. We were visibly in the clear. Nobody celebrated. Nobody joked. We weren’t all there. A few long seconds later, Thapelo appeared between a pair of scrub trees, two canter strides to cross the riverbed and he jumped out to join us. He holstered his bullwhip. Animated chatter replaced focused silence as we started to recap the scene, again and again. Our guides had acted decisively. Our horses had responded exactly as trained. Every rider had listened and reacted without hesitation. The encounter lasted as long as a song on the radio. I’ll remember it for the rest of my life. Takeaway By the time we reached the barn, adrenaline had given way to gratitude, relieved laughter and just enough swagger in the lively storytelling that always follows a close call. The tale grew, as horse stories are duty-bound to do. Someone compared the previous evening’s vehicle safari—we’d proudly placed a check by “lion”—to sitting in a movie theater. From the truck, we’d watched Africa unfold. From horseback, we’d ridden into it. Somewhere in Botswana, with dust still hanging in the air and an elephant’s trumpet fading through the mashatu trees, I realized adventure isn’t about controlling the uncontrollable. It’s about knowing when to let go of control. Mine ended the moment Poloko said, “Turn.” The rest depended on a horse I’d known for three days, guides who understood their country far better than I ever could, companions who truly could “ride a bit,” and decades of ordinary riding lessons that no longer seemed ordinary at all. We came home with full camera rolls. We checked four of the Big Five, leaving the leopard, someone chirped, for our return. But the thing I carried home wasn’t a sighting. It was trust. Trust that a good horse can think for itself. Trust that experienced guides make calm decisions when everyone else is deciding whether to be scared. And trust that the wild doesn’t owe us anything—not safe passage, not a perfect photograph, not even another chance. Perhaps that’s why I still think about those four minutes more than any sunset or safari inventory. For one brief stretch of trail in Botswana, I wasn’t viewing Africa. I was part of it.
IN & AROUND HORSE COUNTRY • FALL 2026
Before You Go Travel tips: • Passport required for South Africa and Botswana but not a visa. • Helmets required on all Horizon Horseback trips. Pack your own if you have room (some people even “wear them” on the plane, but Horizon has plenty to borrow). Half chaps are recommended, but some people take tall boots, others wear leggings under riding pants or jeans. • Our group added a day to the start of our trip—recommended by our pilot co-traveler who considered it built-in protection against lost luggage, travel delays, and jet-lag. We thought we might explore Johannesburg but in reality we just stayed around the hotel which had a nice restaurant and a bar and a good workout center perfect to decompress after the 15-hour flight. •The Big Five refers to the lion, leopard, elephant, rhinoceros, and Cape buffalo. Originally coined by 19th-century big-game hunters to describe the five most dangerous and difficult animals to hunt on foot, the term is now used by safari-goers for the most highly sought wildlife sightings. Everything Horse: • Horizon horses are predominantly boerperd, a native African breed, plus a mixture of warmbloods, Appaloosas, and Friesians. They are all well-schooled, forward-going but quiet. • An American foxhunting horse and an African safari horse have a similar skillset: stand quietly, move off at an active walk, adjustable and comfortable canter. But the safari horse notches up “obedience” and “patience”—safari horses tie quietly in any situation, with any tie method. Several times, we’d just hop off to take a break, and tie the horses, with the reins still attached to the bit, to the branch of a tree. It went against every Pony Club lesson we’d ever learned, but, honestly, no one panicked, no one pulled back, no one got loose. We were familiar with the “they’ll learn” management style from prior trips to Ireland and Montana, but it’s a notable departure from most traditional tie methods. • There’s a short riding test at each location before you go on safari, simple but telling. You move your horse out of the line, trot or canter away on a diagonal, turn and canter a straight line across from the instructors, then turn and canter back to the group. The point is to demonstrate control, precision, balance, and the ability to follow instruction. • Guides are always trying to offer “unique” experiences—long canters, fast canters, twisty-turny canters, “splashy canters” in the water, even swimming on horseback. You’ll often stop to watch the animals which gives your knees a rest, but you’ll get as much speed and exercise as you want. • There’s plenty of time to pull out your cell phone or camera for videos or photos, but when the guide tells you not to, don’t. • Several riders in our group purchased special seat savers online to bring, but most of the saddles had a good seat cover already. Some people preferred the extra padding taken off since they do shift around a bit. In general, the saddles are comfortable and tack in good repair. • Prepare to be mounted 4-8 hours daily, lots of canter and hand-gallop with long stretches of walking in between. Make sure you’re fit or you’ll be miserable. • Most outfitters have a weight limit, usually around 200 pounds. We didn’t get weighed, but we were assured that they’re pretty strict. • Eight is the magic number for a safari group. That’s how many seats in a safari vehicle (plus a driver and a guide), that’s how many seats on a bush plane, and that’s the optimal number of mounted guests for the two guides. You don’t have to fill a trip: you can sign up for a riding safari individually or as a smaller number. The outfitter will build full groups, or as full as they can, for each week. History: • Horse-mounted safari operations began in the 1970s when private preserves began to recognize the mutual benefits of eco-tourism. • Established in 1993, Horizon offers a number of customized horseback trips in southern Africa, from the beginner-friendly Signature Safari at the Waterberg Horizon base camp, to the Tuli and Explorer trips for advanced riders. • The horses and wildlife at Horizon South Africa are owned and managed by the Baber family, who’ve lived on the property for six generations. South African law grants property rights to wildlife on private conservancies and game ranches, provided “the land is properly fenced and they hold the necessary permits.”
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• By law in Botswana, wild animals are property of the state rather than privately owned. At the Mashatu Game Reserve where Horizon has a concession, wildlife roams freely across the open, unfenced boundaries of the Northern Tuli Game Reserve. While the animals belong to the public trust, the conservation and stewardship of the habitat are managed by private reserve owners. South Africa Camps: • Horizon Horseback’s base camp in South Africa is a three-hour drive from Tambo airport. • Camp Davidson is named for the original remote camp of E.A. Davidson, great-grandfather to a Horizon founding partner. Decked canvas tents nestle along a ridge overlooking a game-filled valley. Each tent (size and proportion of a modern hotel room) has an ensuite full bath, including an open air but completely private shower. The camp runs on solar and does suffer an occasional outage in cloudy or rainy weather. There’s a small swimming pool. • Savannah Lodge on the southwestern edge of the conservancy and Seringa Lodge on the southeastern side offer luxury accommodations. Pool, decks, and verandas overlook a grassy plain and small river that attract a parade of animals. Botswana Camps: • Horizon Botswana base camp is a four-hour van drive (some highway, some “African massage” roads) or a half-hour bush plane ride from Horizon South Africa. • Tree Camp is a few hours’ ride from base. Wooden platforms built around enormous, mature mashatu and leadwood trees are constructed high, “out of elephant’s reach,” providing an elevated view of the Majale River. Sleeping quarters are spacious canvas roofed rooms (the size of a European hotel room) with four-poster beds. Rooms encircle a communal dining area. • Guides take turns on night watch, resting (not sleeping) two hours at a time on a cot in the middle of the paddock. A wood fire and lanterns deter most night callers, but they’re also armed with a bullwhip. • Kgotla camp was originally an ancient tribal court beside the Motloutse River west of Mashatu. Guests sleep in single-bed sized zipper-sided pods around a fire ring. Meals: • Dinners are hearty and home-cooked, a combination of western fare (burgers, pasta) and traditional African dishes (braai—grilled meat including farmed local game; potjiekos—stew slow-cooked in a cast iron pot over coals; and pap—a traditional corn porridge similar to grits or polenta.) • Breakfast is before dawn: choose from toast, yogurt, fruit, cooked eggs and sausages. • Lunches range from al fresco picnics on long-ride days to sandwiches in camp. • Afternoon tea is served mid-afternoon. Packaged snacks and an apple are set out for your saddlebag each day. • The chef and assistant sing reveille as a wake-up call and often sing before dinner. On the final evening, the guides join in an a capella serenade. • Riders are loaned a water bottle and saddle bag. History and Excursions: • The word “safari” is Swahili. It means “journey.” • If you want history, you’re in luck. Some of the oldest civilizations in southern Africa settled the Limpopo Valley. Recent archaeological evidence unearthed stone age tools and rock art from the Mapungubwe (“place of the jackal”) dynasty from the 1200s. • More modern history can be traced on the huge Mamagwa massif, a freestanding formation used by British troops as a defensive position against incursion from the Transvaal Boers at the end of the 19th century. • Guided bush walks are included on most Horizon holidays (we always opted for “more riding” when possible), and one vehicle game drive was included. More are available as add-ons. Details: • Horizon Horseback tours are offered, year-round, through a number of equestrian travel agents. We used Equescapes. It was a seamless experience: equescapes.com.
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IN & AROUND HORSE COUNTRY • FALL 2026
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Simply Classic. Sat., October 10, 2026 Post Time 7:00 pm Featuring the Sam Huff West Virginia Breeders Classic and the Breeders Classics Races
West Virginia Breeders Classics, Ltd. P.O. Box 1251 | Charles Town, WV 25414 www.wvbc.com | 304-725-0709 Carol Holden, President | Theresa Bitner, Exec. Secretary
Horses and People to Watch
RACING
Virginia Equine Alliance
“By the Numbers”
Clerk of Scales Jessie Garcia. Sampson is a Harrisonburg, VA, native and was The longest pari-mutuel Thoroughbred racing season in Virginia history is taking place a star basketball player at the University at Colonial Downs this summer. The New Kent track is in the midst of an 11-week of Virginia. season, covering 46 race days, that continues thru Labor Day, September 7. Here’s a look at the meet so far, “By the Numbers”. 1. Thirty-six-year-old jockey Sonny Leon, a Venezuelan native who had been riding in the U.S. at Monmouth big milestone in July when he earned career Park and other tracks, opted for a riding win number 3,500. The landmark vicchange of scenery this summer and detory came aboard Capitaine at Delaware cided to compete at Colonial Downs for Park July 1 followed by number 3,501 on the first time ever. Leon has had success July 16 at Colonial. Centeno plans to ride at throughout his career but has just one the New Kent track all summer. graded stakes victory on his resume, “The career mark means a lot to me,” which came in the world’s most famous Centeno said. “It’s been a lot of hard work, horse race. sacrifice, and dedication. It’s an honor to be In 2022, Sonny led 80-1 longshot Jesse Garcia & NBA Hall of Famer Ralph in that league. It makes me feel good. I’ve Rich Strike to victory in the Kentucky Sampson at Colonial Downs. Photo VEA been riding 36 years. I rode in Venezuela iniDerby—of all races—after leaving tially for 13 years then came to the U.S. in from post position 20! The winner paid 2004.” $163.80, the second largest payoff in Derby Jockey Daniel Centeno has 3,500 career history. riding wins. Photo VEA 20,000,000. Trainer Rob Bailes went over “It’s such a prestigious race,” he said. the $20 million mark in purses earned when his 3-year-old filly Gripen won a $40,000 “Nobody knew who Sonny Leon was before starter allowance race July 13 at Colonial. The milestone winner was ridden by Taylor that race. The win was a surprise to the Kingsley, trainer Arch Kingsley’s daughter, who got her first win ever at the New Kent world, and it was a surprise even for me. For track. days after the race, friends called and said, Bailes has complied 6,309 career ‘You just won the best race in the world.’ starts with 895 victories. His career The Derby win helped push me to compete highlights include a runner-up finish harder. More trainers gave me opportunities. Kentucky Derby winning jockey with Scrappy T in the 2005 Preakness That’s why I’m in Virginia this summer.” Sonny Leon. Photo VEA Stakes. “ It means a lot,” he said. “Over the 96. Goochland, Virginia, trainer Roland past few years, with so many ups and Clement III, who conditions a stable of moddowns and where racing’s been, I didn’t est horses at Colonial Downs, had reason to know if I really wanted to stay in it, but celebrate opening week when his 4-year-old these horses have brought me new life. Holy Boss filly, Holy Joanie, was best in a I’ve got nice horses in the barn which 5½ furlong claiming race. The win was even makes it worth getting up at three o’- Trainer Rob Bailes has over $20 million in purse more special for “Clem” who got to enjoy earnings. Photo VEA clock every morning. You look forward the moment in the winner’s circle with his to doing it.” 96-year-old father Roland. Bailes is a third-generation horseman with family ties to Virginia equine royalty. His grandfather served as the first farm trainer for Christopher Chenery’s famed 30. Steve Achey retired in 2017 after a 30Meadow Stable while his father became the first person to saddle Secretariat before year career in education as a respected Roland Clement III (left) with 96-year-old Roland Clement. Photo VEA the legendary horse launched his Triple Crown campaign. schoolteacher, principal, and district super-
3,500. Jockey Daniel Centeno reached a
visor in North Carolina. With very little ex-
4. Mike Trombetta and his Virginia-based assistant Tana Aubrey scored a “Natural perience in the horse racing field, he became Stakes Hat Trick” July 11 by capturing three consecutive $125,000 stakes at Colonial in races 7, 8, and 9. After winning with Pont Aven in the Star de Naskra and Noquestionaboutit in the Glenn Petty Stakes, the consistent Virginia-bred Determined Kingdom won the Punch Line Stakes…for the fourth time. “He’s awesome,” said Aubrey. “He’s an old war horse. He’s cool. He knows how to get around out there. He absolutely loves this turf course. This is home.” Determined Kingdom’s win was the 7-year-old gelding’s sixth stakes victory over Colonial’s Secretariat turf course. The first five of Assistant trainer Tana Aubrey celebrates Determined Kingdom’s fourth Punch Line Stakes win. those came via his previous trainer Photo Coady Media Phil Schoenthal; three in the Punch Line along with wins in the Meadow Stable and Jamestown Stakes.
a Thoroughbred paddock judge at Colonial Downs a couple of years later. For three decades, Achey changed the lives of students by implementing strategies to improve their learning habits and helping teachers get better at their practice. In 2019, he was calling “Riders Up” for the Virginia Derby. Achey had a hunch the experience in education could transfer nicely to a new field. “As principal of an elementary school with 800 kids, we were recognized as a Colonial Downs Paddock Judge ‘School of Distinction’ for five of the six Steve Achey. Photo VEA years I was there. I was pretty proud of the results. In the paddock, you need a similar sense of organization and authority, but not over-authority. You don’t want to yell at people and order them around. You want horsemen to be successful and to be safe. Everything has to work like clockwork. If you need to correct trainers, no matter how well known they are, you do it in a courteous way. I treat a trainer who has cheap claiming horses just like one that trains milliondollar horses. I think that’s important. Directness may be necessary at times, which is 88. NBA Hall of Famer Ralph Sampson spent a day at the track with his family on what you do as a school principal.” July 11, called “Rider’s Up” for a race, and made a winner’s circle presentation. Standing seven feet, four inches tall—or 88 inches—Sampson was welcomed by Assistant
JUNIORS
Bryn Mawr Hound Show. Joanne Maisano photo
In the Junior Handler Ring, some days it’s a tug of war, other times it’s calmly focused attention. A group effort makes a big difference. And when the nerves get itchy, a good roll in the grass helps.
Bryn Mawr Hound Show. Joanne Maisano photo
Virginia Foxhound Show. Joanne Maisano photo
Carolinas Hound Show. Allison Howell photo
Virginia Foxhound Show. Joanne Maisano photo
Bryn Mawr Hound Show. Joanne Maisano photo
Carolinas Hound Show. Allison Howell photo