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VOLUME XXXVII / NUMBER 4 • THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE VIRGINIA STEEPLECHASE ASSOCIATION • HOLIDAY 2025

OPENING MEETS

Fox Hounds Opening Meet

Oakley, Upperville, Virginia

November 6, 2025

Old Dominion Hounds Opening Meet

High Meadow Manor, Flint Hill, Virginia

October 18, 2025 • Douglas Lees Photos

Matt Neiswanger graciously opens his home, High Meadow Manor, to his fellow members of Old Dominion Hounds for Opening Meets, Hunt Balls, and many other special events.

Newlyweds Betsy Burke Donley and Tom Donley celebrated their first Opening Meet as a married couple.

Old Dominion Huntsman Josh Bentley moves off with hounds from High Meadow Manor.

Tad Zimmerman, now ex-MFH, may have retired as a master for Piedmont Fox Hounds, but he’s definitely not retired from the hunt field. Douglas Lees photo

Sensing the coming action for Piedmont Fox Hounds’ Opening Meet, this fox became airborne as he took off for the chase. Joanne Maisano photo

Piedmont Fox Hounds, making sure any action would be covered from both directions. Joanne Maisano photo

(l-r) Newly-appointed joint master Robert Bonnie moves off with Shelby Bonnie, MFH, from Oakley to lead the first field together for Piedmont Fox Hounds Opening Meet, November 6, 2025. Douglas Lees photo

Piedmont

Junior William Daw enjoyed Bull Run Hunt’s Opening Meet riding the legendary Doughboy. Jody Michel, wife of Huntsman Tim Michel, recalls Doughboy from her days at the Greenspring Valley Pony Camp every summer and estimates he must be close to 30 years old now.

OPENING MEETS

the recent

of the

the three current

Muddy but happy, Bull Run Huntsman Tim Michel led his pack in on foot following a successful Opening Meet.

Celebrating

revival

historic Potomac Hunt,

masters gathered for an Opening Meet moment before moving off from the kennels in Dickerson, Maryland, October 25, 2025. (l-r) Laura Pitts Delaney, J. Timothy Hansen, and Carol Spicer Nair. Karen Kandra photo

All decked out in their signature green livery, the staff of Andrews Bridge Foxhounds moved off from the kennels in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, for Opening Meet on November 1, 2025 with their distinctive pack of (mostly) black-and-tans. (l-r) Ellie Firestone, Erika Jo Beck, Huntsman Adam Townsend, Jill Federoff, and Tim Hoover. Karen Kandra photo

Despite the lack of rain in Bull Run’s country, the fox managed to elude hounds in one of the few muddy spots in the territory following an Opening Meet run. Whipper-in Preston Buff dismounted and waded into the covert to assist.

Bull Run Hunt Opening Meet

October 25, 2025

Locust Hill, Virginia Sylvie Crickenberger/Celestial Photography

SPORTING LIFE HIGHLIGHTS

Douglas Lees Recognized Among Equine Media Awards

Longtime contributor to In & Around Horse Country, photographer Douglas Lees was recognized for his work at American Horse Publications 2025 Equine Media Awards dinner in Dallas, Texas. Douglas took second place in Freelance Editorial Photograph (print or online) for his “13th Fence Frenzy” shot that appeared in our Summer 2024 issue. Congratulations, Douglas, on the well-deserved award.

Joan Strahler and Demonstration: 2025 Virginia Field Hunter Champion Pair

Mike Hughes Retires From the Announcer’s Booth

Mike Hughes began his career in the announcer’s booth back in 1979 when he worked with Dr. Frank O’Keefe (Will O’Keefe’s father) at the Casanova Pointto-Point. With Dr. O’Keefe calling the action as it happened on the course, Mike’s role was to provide other details between the races such as the results, upcoming action, and plugs for sponsors and vendors. After covering the four 2025 fall races in Virginia, Mike now moves along to a much-deserved retirement.

No stranger to Virginia turf, Mike grew up close to Montpelier where his father was Mrs. Scott’s vet. After assisting Dr. O’Keefe at the Casanova races in ’79, the next year found him seated next to Will O’Keefe. The duo was soon engaged by other local clubs and eventually by the NSA for sanctioned meets.

Old Dominion Hounds’ member Jocelyn Cole, winner of the 2024 Virginia Field Hunter Championship, presented the trophy to this year’s winning pair, Joan Strahler and Demonstration of Orange County Hounds. The competition was held on Sunday, November 9, at Destinaire in Hume, home of Clare and Tom Mannsman. The 13year-old Irish-bred was a winner on the turf in Ireland but his career in the US as a steeplechaser proved unsuccessful. His stint as a mount for OCH Huntsman Reg Spreadborough was also short-lived. Fortunately, he and Joan, a former OCH whipper-in, found each other. It’s been a happy partnership ever since. In addition to the trophy, the winning pair received a Horse Country Saddlery cooler and a leather halter donated by Saddlery Liquidators. Adriana Mannini and Annia Dowell’s Folk Song of Farmington Hunt was the runner-up pair. Middleburg Photo

from

assisted

COVER PHOTOGRAPHER:

Joanne Maisano

Denny Bomar

Coady Media

Sylvie Crickenberger/Celestial Photography celestialphotography369@gmail

Allison Howell allisonhowellimages.smugmug.com

Hannah Jones

Mark Jump markjumpphotography.com

Karen Kandra

Austin Kaseman austinkaseman.com

Jordan Koepke jordankoepke.com

Douglas Lees douglaslees@comcast.net

Camden Littleton, Virginia Cooperative

Extension

Joanne Maisano joannemaisano.com

Middleburg Photo middleburgphoto.com

Will retired from his race-calling duties a few years ago due to health issues and passed away in December, 2023. Mike soldiered on with new personalities in the booth but has now opted to turn the microphone over to someone else starting with next year’s spring schedule.

He was presented with commemorative gifts—paintings, plaques, books— at each of this fall’s meets and lauded for his lengthy career and valued service to the racing community.

We join all the others in wishing him a long and happy retirement!

Junior North American Field Hunter Championship: Next Issue!

Unfortunately, the schedule for the 2025 JNAFHC Finals and our press run date for this issue did not work out. The finals, held last year in late September, were moved to mid-November, the weekend after our printing deadline. We look forward to covering the action and highlighting the winners in our next issue. As always, we encourage everyone who values mounted hunting and wants to see it continue into the future to support the JNAFHC and other programs focused on the future of the sport.

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Blue Ridge Huntsman Graham Buston signals to his hounds

they move along on Opening Meet

Carter Hall, Millwood, Virgina. He’s

by WhipperIn Tiffany Evitts (left).

Maryland Hunt Cup, Glydon, Maryland, April 27, 2024. Blackhall (#2, Charlie Marshall, up) had some company at the 13th fence after Royal Ruse lost rider Elizabeth Scully. Blackhall went on to win the race. Douglas Lees photo

Mike Hughes received one of the many gifts in recognition of his long career from Ashley and Kathleen O’Keefe at the Virginia Fall Races. Douglas Lees photo

Family and the Future

2025 Theodora A. Randolph Field Hunter Championship

By Amy McNeely • Photos by Middleburg Photo

The Theodora A. Randolph Field Hunter Championship is a program of tradition and, lately, needed change. While we continue to honor the legacy of Mrs. Randolph and the program that Mrs. Smithwick envisioned, the committee has continued to make adjustments to improve the week-long competition for the participants.

While last year saw the major shift of finals to Sunny Bank Farm, this year’s focus was on smaller but important improvements. The lack of rain and footing has continued to be a conversation year-over so the competition was moved back a week, which also allowed the Thoroughbred enthusiasts to attend after the Retired Racehorse Project ended in Kentucky—a long-time ask which wasn’t possible while the program was part of the Virginia Fall Races. The finals course saw a major upgrade thanks to sponsor JS2 Structures and Fencing who donated a day of labor and materials to install three new permanent fences. Finally, The Dr. Matthew Mackay-Smith Top Placing Thoroughbred Trophy was significantly improved with the addition of a base to display its past and future recipients. This was made possible by multiple donors including the Virginia Equine Alliance and was built by Josh Kolowski of Piedmont Woodshop with engraving donated by Middleburg Photo.

This year, the competitors traveled to the Keswick Hunt Club to begin their week-long journey—a welcome change in scenery as KHC hasn’t been a part of the traditional rotation for many years. Tuesday saw the Bull Run Hunt where MFH Rosie Campbell led the field from The Preserve, followed by Wednesday with the legendary Orange County Hounds from picturesque Glen Welby. Brandon Tucker and Hannah Rogers Tucker hosted a cocktail party Wednesday evening at the Hillbrook Barn for the Masters, competitors, and sponsors ahead of the final qualifying leg with the Loudoun Fairfax Hounds at the Galloway Field, also part of the Rogers’ Hillbrook Farm. The finals concluded the week at Eva Smithwick’s Sunny Bank Farm on Friday.

Friday’s competition began with the Best Turned Out judging which was again open to all registered participants—a change made last year to continue to support this important tradition. Five immaculately turned-out riders and horses were judged by Kathleen O’Keefe, who awarded Champion to Katie MacSwain with Lynn Pirozzoli’s Frosty, and Reserve Champion to Heather Heider with her own Call You Later. Both pairs represented the Loudoun Fairfax Hounds.

The 16 finalists then gathered behind field master Mo Baptiste to begin their warm-up and move off for the mock hunt where they would travel approximately 1.5 miles over nine fences and complete several tests, including a reverse field and master back. At the completion of the mock hunt, all riders were invited to perform the individual test. This included an in-and-out to mimic a gravel road crossing, drop rail, trot fence, hand gallop, and various other fences to allow riders to demonstrate their horse’s abilities.

Chatterbox (JC Uncle Chato), owned and ridden by Denya Banks of the Blue Ridge Hunt, took the top spot with a round that was untouchable. Denya could be heard from the sidelines calmly saying “go” as Chatterbox blasted into a goosebump-inducing gallop that would stop on a dime by her picking up his breastplate. Their flawless partnership was demonstrated in this test and throughout the entire course as he kept a perfect hunting pace and keenly listened to her direction.

Denya’s dad Eddie sourced Chatterbox for her after a hard racing career landed him at the Charles Town track. Denya took what once was a relatively feral horse, rideable for merely four minutes at a time, and turned him into the ultimate champion. As Chatterbox is a JC registered horse, the pair was also awarded the Dr. Matthew Mackay-Smith Top Placing Thoroughbred award. Matthew Mackay-Smith was Denya’s mom’s stepbrother, making the moment incredibly special as Winkie and Juliette Mackay-Smith presented the pair with the trophy. This year was also sweet for Denya as she was making her return after sitting the 2024 Championship out with her newborn son Grayson (pictured). She is out to prove to all new moms that there is space for both farm and family life. Sometimes, it really is all in the family.

Reserve Champion went to Zapper, another Thoroughbred, owned and ridden by MFH Cameron Sadler of the Moore County Hounds. Cameron and the pack of MCH gals traveled directly to Virginia from Kentucky after a long week at the Retired Racehorse Project and made the most of their time, competing nearly every day and receiving numerous ribbons. MCH was awarded the Hunt with the Most Competitors with 13 entries and was presented a basket for their trip home, sponsored by Broad Run Veterinary Services.

Among the MCH competitors were this year’s two juniors, Grady and Violet, both finalists. Grady finished a notable sixth on the Kamenz’s Eryx. Violet gave it her all with Patsy O’Brien’s Dartmoor Pony, Lex, but he wasn’t quite ready to run solo. Lex is 18 years young, a mere 12.2 hh, and has only been a riding horse for two years after retiring from driving. To say it is impressive that Violet and Lex hunted a full day with the adults in first field at remarkable places like the Orange County Hounds is an understatement. We weren’t going to let them end on a bad note. Field Master Mo Baptiste headed onto course after their second refusal, swept the pair up, and led them around the course for the most heart-warming four minutes full of applause and camaraderie. Moments like this are what teach our juniors what sportsmanship is about—and sometimes the adults too.

As we reflect on this moment, the importance of juniors, and potential changes to our program, we are considering ways to incorporate more juniors into the TARFHC. If there is enough interest, it is our goal to create a junior division in 2026 with a lower fee and a junior-specific course that is more inviting to their horses. They are, after all, the future of our sport and we hope they all leave with as many smiles as Violet did this year as she headed south with her positive experience and Sportsmanship ribbon.

Jeff Woodall, Huntsman of Loudoun Fairfax Hounds, assisted by Whipper-In Connor Poe, hosts a bye-day with his pack after serving as a judge earlier in the week.

Junior Violet aboard Patsy O’Brien’s 12.2 hh Lex soars over the banner fence

Denya Banks with son Grayson.

Denya Banks and Chatterbox flawlessly tackle the new in-and-out fence donated and built by JS2 Structures and Fencing.

RIDER SAFETY

Vested Interest

By J. Harris Anderson, Managing Editor

We have previously pointed out the many ways in which foxhunting has changed since William P. Wadsworth published his booklet Riding to Hounds in America: An Introduction for Foxhunters in 1962. While not a word of Wadsworth’s original text, penned more than 60 years ago, has been modified, Peter Winants did suggest one possible update at the end of his foreword to the 1987 reprinting: “…even though he was a staunch supporter of tradition and traditional dress, Mr. Wadsworth would have added…that harnesses for hunt caps are acceptable in the hunting field.”

In our Summer 2025 issue, we noted that over the ensuing four decades since Winants’ suggested edit (albeit still not part of the actual text), the harnessed helmet has gone from “acceptable” to “preferred” and, at an increasing number of hunts, now mandated. This comes over the objections of a remaining few whose arguments in support of their custom-fitted—and pricey—hunt caps are not without merit. But the trend is clearly unstoppable.

So now, with every foxhunter’s cranium securely encased, we turn to the next stage of protection against hunt field injuries, the protective vest—more specifically, the inflatable version of this safety aid.

Our focus on the inflatable type versus the fixed foam/hard-shell style— now mandatory for the cross-country phase of eventing—is based on features particularly relevant to the hunt field.

While the rider may choose to wear a foam vest over a hunt coat, it’s possible some vests of this type can be worn under the coat, provided the coat is somewhat larger than what the rider would typically wear. Moreover, in the opinion of some sources, this arrangement allows the vest to fit flat against the rider’s torso, which provides better coverage for the ribs and spine, and allows the vest to move with the wearer’s body in the event of a fall. And, for the traditionalist’s eye, the purity of hunt field turnout is not sullied.

It’s not impossible to wear an inflatable vest under a hunt coat, but the logistics are more complex. The coat would need to be sufficiently spacious to allow for full inflation of the vest in the event of a fall, which may result in an ill-fitted look at all other times. This would also apply to the rider’s full range of coats and jackets, which for most would be at least a few and for some might fill an entire closet.

There are coats—primarily for the show ring but some for the hunt field— available with inflatable protection built into the coat itself. But, again, to employ this technology in every coat or jacket worn under different hunting conditions poses significant expense. Moreover, it’s the rare hunter, if one even exists, who only rides wearing a formal hunt coat or hacking jacket. There are exercise rides, summer trail rides, schooling sessions, early hunt season days when polo shirts are allowed, and those days when the master declares, “Jackets excused!”

Which brings us to the inflatable vest that can be strapped on over any type of garment, from a light tee shirt to the heaviest hunt coat (with multiple layers beneath if needed for warmth). Another advantage is that the typical foam/hardshell vest offers minimal protection for the neck and tail bone. The design needs to strike a balance between protecting the wearer’s back while not hindering his or her movements in the saddle. By contrast, the inflatable vest imposes little, if any, impairment to the rider’s movement when inactive but can expand over a wider area of the body, to include the neck and lower back, when inflated. A third comparative consideration is the typical length of time the vest is worn. Even at the most advanced level in cross-country eventing, the rider is typically on the course for no more than ten or eleven minutes. Dressage, show jumping, and lower level cross-country times run much less. Compare those times to the multiple hours typically spent following hounds and the relative comfort advantage of an inflatable vest becomes apparent.

As such, our purpose here is to consider the various aspects of including this type of safety gear in one’s hunting kit. We’ll leave matters such as brand choice to the individual. Suffice it to say that there are several well-regarded brands and ample information available regarding the technical details of each (e.g., pricing, colors, servicing, etc.).

While we are unaware of any hunt that does not allow riders to wear an inflatable vest, we know of only one that has now made it mandatory for every rider to wear either an inflatable or foam/hard-shell safety vest—Four Winds Foxhounds, Indiantown, Florida.

Carol Stanley has been foxhunting for 45 years and has served as a master at Four Winds since its founding in 1990. “I have seen it all, and I have heard it all when it comes to horse/hunting accidents,” Carol recalls. “I have many broken bones, concussions, and almost died (prior to wearing a vest) 20 years ago. I wouldn’t rec-

Four Winds Foxhounds MFH Carol Stanley and Whipper-in Kirsten Stanley are fans of the Point Two inflatable vest. Located in south Florida, not far from Wellington, the warmer temps dictate flexibility in turnout. Photo courtesy of Carol Stanley

ommend anyone get on a horse or pony without safety equipment including a vest.”

Given the hunt’s location in southern Florida, some climate-related concessions are made to traditional turnout. As for the impact the now-required additional safety equipment at Four Winds has on turnout, Carol had this to say. “The most important tradition at Four Winds has to do with hunting behind a healthy and biddable pack of hounds that is allowed to follow the scent of a coyote through woods, galloping grass, over coops, et cetera, for a couple of hours without having to stop them. Anyone who doesn’t value that tradition is not a true sportsman.”

In our previous inquiries about the banishment of hunt caps (as well as bowlers and top hats) from the hunt field, one rationale offered was the liability a club might face should someone not wearing an “approved” helmet suffer a head injury. No such rationale was offered from the Four Winds leadership, despite the fact that two of the three masters—Carol and her son Thomas—are lawyers. (Carol’s son John is also a master and serves as honorary huntsman.) The impression that clearly comes through is a heartfelt concern for the safety of their members and the belief that the advantages offered by modern technology can be employed while not diminishing the traditional spirit of mounted hunting.

However, the question did have to be asked if any members were opposed to the new policy, perhaps to the point of resigning. “If someone truly loves following hounds while mounted,” Carol says, “he or she would not quit just because of a requirement to utilize the latest safety equipment.”

When asked what she thinks the future holds for the use of safety vests in the hunt community, she notes that, “Safety vests have been very popular at the hunts I ride with. I would estimate that 70 to 90 percent of riders wear one while hunting or trail riding.” But she defers on the question of other hunts imposing a mandate. “I suspect it will be a very personal matter depending upon the governance of the hunt. Four Winds is governed by the Masters (not a Board), so it’s easier for us to implement policies and requirements.”

While still optional (as far as we know) everywhere else, safety vests have been making their way into the hunt field for several years now and, as indicated by the experience and comments from Four Winds, are gaining momentum. An admittedly unscientific survey, focused specifically on the inflatable version, revealed wide support for their use, along with some caveats and at least a few objections.

The most frequent caution mentioned from current users was to remember to disconnect the lanyard attached to the saddle which, when pulled, activates the CO2 canister that inflates the vest. At a minimum, this can be an annoyance, perhaps a bit embarrassing, and requires replacing the canister. Other unintended, and potentially dangerous, consequences may also occur. The sound of the device being triggered is typically described as akin to a gunshot (at least small caliber, such as a .22). This could cause a spook, not only of the horse being dismounted but among others nearby. (The same can be said of the potential side effects when a rider falls and the vest is activated as intended.) One respondent suggested tying a red ribbon in a prominently visible spot for at least a month as a reminder to deactivate.

or inflatable— mandatory for all riders. Mark Jump photo

As for the noise, regardless of whether the triggering is legitimate or accidental, this does add a different element to the proliferation of inflatables versus the foam/hard-shell vest. Ideally, of course, a hunt horse should be able to handle the crack of a hunt whip as well as the pop from a pistol when required by staff to lift hounds’ heads. In reality, not all horses ridden in the hunt field are sufficiently desensitized to such distractions. This, then, serves as one potentially legitimate objection to the inflatable, whether optional or mandatory. While its activation may save the individual rider from serious injury, or worse, it might also put other riders at risk if the noise spooks their horses. This is, of course, purely speculative but did come up among the requested comments.

It should also be noted that for an inflatable to serve its intended function, the rider must separate from the horse and the vest must fully inflate before the rider hits the ground. (Inflation speed can be a consideration when deciding which vest to choose.) However, if a horse goes down with the rider trapped underneath, the vest may not be triggered to inflate. While this situation represents a small minority of horse-related accidents, estimated to be in the 5-10% range overall, the outcome can be far worse than if the rider falls clear of the animal. Thus, in this one application, the foam/hard-shell vest may provide better protection.

Foxhunting is not a sport for the miserly. That said, an inflatable vest does add a further expense to one’s budget. The initial cost ranges from around $400 to $700, depending on the brand and specific model, with some bearing price tags at the $800-$900 level. The average cost of canisters runs around $30-$35 each. Where the cost of replacement canisters falls on one’s balance sheet is a function of how frequently one falls from one’s horse, or forgets to unplug when dismounting, both of which may be related to other “balance” issues.

This puts the initial investment in an inflatable vest in roughly the same range as a top quality harnessed helmet with the required ASTM tag of approval. And, as is recommended for helmets, manufacturers suggest that vests be replaced on a three-to-five year cycle (or sooner for helmets that have suffered impact from a fall). However, unlike helmets, most manufacturers offer periodic servicing of their inflatables.

While these costs may not be dissuasive to the typical foxhunter, they do raise an issue for a hunt whose leadership might be thinking about enacting a mandatory vest policy, either foam or inflatable as each rider prefers, as in the Four Winds example. Organizational structure would likely play a role in this. Four Winds, essentially a family operation, is spared the burdens of parliamentary encumbrance. For many other clubs, a policy of vocal encouragement rather than mandatory imposition may be the better option. Visual encouragement could also be provided if the masters, staff, and field leaders all wear safety vests of some type. And, of course, while it’s unlikely any hunt would impose a ban on inflatables, there may still be some that prefer a stance of benign neglect. If members want to wear one, they won’t be told not to. But, then, there won’t be any clearly stated encouragement either.

Peter Winants was publisher of The Chronicle of the Horse when he penned his 1987 foreword to Wadsworth’s booklet. If an equally respected figure in today’s equestrian community were asked to compose something similar, would a nod to safety vests be included? Could Wadsworth, who died in 1982, have imagined such a device would even exist, especially the inflatable variety, let

alone be an increasingly popular item among foxhunters? At his passing, hunt field headgear consisted solely of hunt caps (primarily for staff and “other persons singled out by the MFH”) along with bowlers and, on special occasions, top hats for everyone else. But by 1987 harnessed helmets had garnered enough attention to spark Winants’ suggested edit. No doubt, harnessed helmets would be considered a given and safety vests would be tagged as “acceptable.”

There’s no telling what the next development in hunt field safety gear will be. Is the trend likely to end with the widespread—perhaps at some point universal—use of safety vests? If we had to guess, we’re inclined to say no. If the proliferation of harnessed helmets, and now the growing popularity of safety vests, are any indication, some as yet unimagined technology will eventually require another suggested edit to Mister Wadsworth’s booklet.

Safety vests, whether inflatable or foam/hard-shell, are becoming increasingly popular in the hunt field. A caution cited by multiple users of the inflatable type: Don’t forget to disconnect the lanyard attached to the saddle before dismounting.

Hardaway’s Harness

Readers of this publication are no doubt familiar with the legacy of Ben Hardaway (1919-2017), MFH and Huntsman, Midland Fox Hounds, 1950-1994. A larger-than-life figure in the hunting world, Ben is best remembered as both a spirited advocate of mounted hunting as well as the breeder of the Hardaway Crossbred Foxhound. But another legacy has recently come to light—his early advocacy of harnessed helmets.

About the time Peter Winants was composing his foreword to Wadsworth booklet, Epp Wilson, now Belle Meade Hunt’s senior master, received some inspirational counsel from Hardaway.

“It was sometime in the ’80s.” Epp recalls. “Ben said he heard all the chatter about these new hard hats with harnesses. He went to the tack store and tried one on. He looked in the mirror and he said it looked like a bucket on his head. But he told the store owner he would take it.

“‘I don’t like the looks of it,’ Ben said, ‘but that does not matter. I am a Master. I am the leader of the Hunt. Kids especially look at me and think, “I want to be like that guy. I want to look like that guy.” If I wear the old kind of helmet and a child falls in the hunt field and gets a brain injury because they weren’t wearing a helmet with a harness, well, I don’t want that on my conscience. I need to wear what I want them to wear. I want the picture in their mind of a foxhunter to be a person wearing a helmet with a harness.’”

Jump ahead four decades. While discussing Four Winds Foxhounds’ policy to require all riders to wear a safety vest, Carol Stanley, unaware of the story Epp Wilson had recently shared, made this comment: “The first time I saw someone hunting with a chin strap on his helmet was Ben Hardaway in the ’80s in Alabama. I was shocked initially, but then I went home and purchased one for myself!”

By the time Ben Hardaway passed away in 2017, at the age of 98, harnessed helmets had become nearly universal as standard turnout. (And, thanks to stylish design improvements, no longer resemble buckets.)

Four Winds Foxhounds Huntsman John Stanley, MFH, accompanied by Whipper-In Lauren Briggs (both honorary) were already fans of safety vests when this shot was taken on Opening Day, 2023. The hunt has now made vests—either foam/hard-shell

The Latest in Equine Research

By Dr. Kristine Ely, PhD, PAS

Photos courtesy of Camden Littleton, Virginia Cooperative Extension

Do you dream of your horse grazing and galloping through rolling hills filled with lush, green grass? You wouldn’t be alone. The reality is that space and resources often limit this dream. Even if you have the space, pastures can lack the necessary management application to keep them performing at their best. Pasture management should be a reasonable compromise between doing what’s best for your horse(s) and the land, which can sometimes mean sacrificing in the short term for a long-term benefit/gain. This is challenging to accomplish as the results are not immediate.

The primary component missing with most pasture management plans is rest. Rest is crucial to allow grasses to store nutrients in their roots and regrow leafy, green above-ground biomass. However, most folks are limited by the amount of land that they have for the number of horses. Implementing a rotational grazing system is one way to increase the carrying capacity of the land you do have. This involves dividing your pastures into smaller sections, so that horses consume the grass more efficiently, while allowing the sections not being grazed to rest and recover.

Another piece to this, though, is having a sacrifice or dry lot to keep horses on when grass is not actively growing (i.e., mid-summer slump and winter). This area is key to protecting grass from both overgrazing and hoof traffic. However, the use of these sacrifice areas is often met with concerns about restricting the horse’s freedom of movement.

The Virginia Tech Middleburg Agriculture Research and Extension Center (MARE Center), a gift from Paul Mellon, is dedicated to equine research especially focused on the relationship of the horse and the land. The focus of current research efforts is on land management and, more specifically, how we can manage pastures with the horse in mind.

The MARE Center has installed a pasture grazing track to demo as a pasture and horse management tool that allows for controlled forage intake and forage management while also encouraging natural behavior and movement of the horse. Alongside the grazing track is a traditional rotational grazing set-up with a sacrifice lot. Both pastures are ~2.5 acres and house two horses each. We are currently rotationally grazing the interior portion during the growing season but will restrict horses to their respective sacrifice areas and provide hay once the grasses are grazed to 4”. We leave 4” of residual forage to allow for a faster green-up in the spring and return to grazing without weakening the root structures below the surface.

The grazing track concept was first introduced in Europe but has recently been attracting interest here in the US. For those less familiar with the concept of the grazing track, sometimes referred to as a “Paddock Paradise” system, the main premise is to restrict your horses to a continuous laneway, usually encircling the central portion of the pasture, to serve as the sacrifice area for that field. This varies from traditional sacrifice or dry lot areas which are often small sections of your pasture that contain shelter, water, and hay in a singular location. The grazing track provides similar amenities, but hay feeding “stations” are spread along the track to encourage horse movement throughout the day. Additional activity areas can also be added such as a sand rolling pit or logs for horses to step over. For horses that are restricted to dry lots for health reasons and unable to freely graze lush pastures, or “easy keeper” types, this can provide much needed enrichment and exercise, while also allowing owners to manage their horses’ intake.

The track system was showcased at the Pasture Perfect: Equine Grazing School hosted at the MARE Center April 17th. Along with the track system, attendees spent the morning portion of this program hearing from experts on general pasture management tips, weed identification and management options, and the basics of soil fertility and reading a soil test. The afternoon included two sessions. The first featured a hands-on demonstration of pasture evaluation tools, soil sampling and soil health evaluation. The second included a bonus hayride where participants were introduced to sprayer calibration and safety followed by a facility walk where the grazing track and traditional rotational grazing pastures were set up.

If you missed the field day, are curious to see the grazing track for yourself, and are in the Middleburg area, it is visible from Sullivans Mill Road. (We kindly ask that you do not feed the horses, though, when visiting. Thank you.)

Compost from the three different bedding materials used in an ongoing research study at the MARE Center.

An aerial image of the grazing track and rotational grazing management systems at the MARE Center.

“Do you dream of your horse grazing and galloping through rolling hills filled with lush, green grass?”

A grazing track can be created in any pasture using step in posts and electric fencing.

Paul Mellon’s quote engraved on the monument to his memory captures the spirit of the work done at the MARE Center.

Another important aspect of pasture management but often overlooked is how the effects from land or horse management decisions can impact what’s happening underground. This is driving additional work at the MARE Center looking into management strategies to improve soil health in an effort to buffer the effects of climate change (i.e., hotter and drier summers) and create more resilient pastures. As a sneak peak, we have evaluated different bedding materials in stall and are currently evaluating how they break down during composting to create valuable nutrient rich organic matter. Organic matter is key to improving soil’s water holding capacity. This spring we’ll finish this project by applying the finished composts to small plots and evaluate soil health metrics and forage growth responses. Stay tuned for future updates on this research and the announcement of field days. (To stay up to date on the latest research from the MARE Center, including in-person educational events, follow our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/MARECenter.)

To add to the exciting year of research we’ve had, this summer also brought about the 2025 biennial Equine Science Society Symposium hosted in Fort Collins by Colorado State University. Leading equine researchers from around the world gathered together to share the latest scientific research from the past two years. A broad variety of studies were presented, followed by much needed time catching up with colleagues and meeting the newest generation of equine scientists.

While much of the information presented was fascinating, the following summaries are a few that might be of particular interest to the broader horse community.

Water is the most important nutrient in a horse’s diet. So, when the forecast of a cold snap threatens to reduce water consumption, we as horse owners often turn to soaking feeds to increase water intake as a safeguard. While this is beneficial to improve short term water consumption, work presented by Ferreira and colleagues (2025) demonstrated that soaking feed does not sustain a higher level of water intake over time. Horses will self-regulate their voluntary water intake, so don’t be surprised if you see less water consumption after soaking feed. This can still be a very useful practice, especially when traveling or during cold snaps.

Horse stomachs are relatively small compared to the rest of the digestive system. This dictates the size of meals they can consume. The standard maximal recommended meal size is 0.5% of the horse’s body weight or ~5 pounds for the average sized horse. For meals larger than this, it is typical to divide into smaller portions and feed at least four hours apart. But meals much smaller in size than this are still spread out due to traditional management styles. For horses fed in stalls, this is likely not an issue—unless you’re more than 30 seconds late to feed Fluffy. Yet many horses are managed in a group setting. Share and colleagues (2025) determined that offering more frequent meals increased aggression in group-fed horses. This suggests that splitting meal sizes that are smaller than 5 pounds into multiple feedings may result in greater herd disturbance. Now, we all know that each group can vary, but it’s something interesting to keep in mind if troubles during feeding time persist.

I think it’s safe to say that we can all shed tears over the increasing price of hay. Unfortunately for us horses lovers, hay is a necessity for our four-legged partners. Some of you might have what we call a “hoover” that wastes none of its hay, but most of us cry as we muck stalls and add up the dollars that are going straight into the manure pile. As a compromise to save our sanity, we often resort to hay nets to reduce waste and/or slow down our never-ending hay consumers. Hay nets have received some negative light regarding the physical effects they might inflict, and several studies have looked at various aspects of using hay nets. However, what we do know is that hay nets are effective at reducing waste and controlling intake (an evil necessity for our easy keeper friends). Work presented by Hernandez Garbati and colleagues (2025) demonstrated that while elevated feeders caused horses to take bites of hay in elevated postures, they spent the majority of their time with their head and neck lower than or level with their withers while chewing and swallowing. This was compounded when using small hole hay nets, used to slow consumption rate and extend feeding time. While this might be a cause for concern, we also know that leaving horses without hay for extended periods of time or not restricting hay consumption, leading to obesity, can cause other just as concerning issues. While nothing is ever black and white, hay nets are a useful tool to consider. But you must weigh the pros and cons for your specific situation.

Let’s go back to the image of rolling pastures filled with lush, green grass. While idyllic, it is more often than not that pastures present with undesirable weed species. Many folks want to know what specific weed they are dealing with, and while there are lots of great resources both in-person and online, we’re all aware of how nice it is to have access to that information at our fingertips. One of my favorite presentations was by Grev and colleagues (2025), where they

Rotational grazing is an important component of pasture management, one way to increase the carrying capacity of the land you do have.

evaluated the effectiveness of different phone-based plant identification apps. Based on their assessment, the app PictureThis was the most accurate of those tested. This tool is something you can bring along while you’re walking your pastures and have questions about what is growing in them. All you need to do is snap a picture. This information is imperative to be able to figure out how to manage weeds in your pastures. I genuinely love a user-friendly solution to problems such as these.

This is only a small snippet of research presented. If you want to peruse what else was showcased this summer, abstracts from the symposium can be accessed online and are published in the Journal of Equine Veterinary Science under Special Issues. Many journals have started to offer open access publishing options, where the author is able to pay more so their work is accessible by all. However, if you have a specific paper you’d like to read and it is not readily available, many authors are very receptive to sharing their work if you send them an email.

In closing, I hope that you find this information helpful. The start of the New Year is a great time to evaluate your pasture management goals for the coming year and make a plan. The work done at the MARE Center and the greater equine research community as a whole is always aimed at improving the health and comfort of our beloved 4-legged friends. I hope to see you at one of our field days and/or educational events and look forward to meeting you.

From the Diary (and Bed) of Osmun

Big news from Horse Country headquarters: I’m getting a roommate. Yes, another Scottish Terrier from the same Montana kennel whence I came. He’s a champion, like me, and at seven and a half years old, he’s in his prime. If he’s anything like me (and I suspect he is), he’ll be handsome, well-mannered, and quick to find the softest chair in the house.

Marion is still puzzling over a name. Naming a dog is no small thing; it must sound right, feel right, and carry a bit of dignity. Two syllables, with weight on the second one, are best for proper control and gravitas. My kennel name was Jock before I came to Virginia, but Marion quickly learned that Virginia is pedigree country, full of opinions and lineage lore. She wanted something different, a name with presence, something that sounds proper when called across a field or whispered in polite company.

She found Osmun while watching Ertugrul, a sweeping Netflix saga of 172 episodes about the Turkish sire of the famous leader, Osman, who united all the tribes into the Ottoman Empire. I liked the sound of it right away. It had history, strength, and just enough mystery.

I knew I was home the night I arrived in Warrenton. It was cold and blustery, one of those November evenings when the wind whips around your tail. The house lights were twinkling down the cul-de-sac, and when I stepped inside, the smell of cookies (or maybe pie) hung in the air. That’s when I knew this was forever.

As we go forward, my tale will get longer, especially now that I’ll have a roommate. Marion’s friends worry that a younger Scottie might bully me, but really, I know better. Some things in life are simply settled.

I will still be the one who sleeps in the bed.

I will still be fed first, morning and night.

I will still ride in the front seat to work every day, take my post in my office bed at Marion’s side, and offer a few well-timed bon mots when she struggles over her Facebook copy.

After all, a household runs best when there’s order, and I’ve already established mine.

Marion has been traveling a lot lately, buying new treasures for the store, so I’ve been staying with Jolie for three days at a time. Marion insists she can’t be away longer than that; she says she starts to stress out without me. Naturally.

Green Spring Valley Hounds Opening Meet

Kennels, Glyndon, Maryland

November 8, 2025

Karen Kandra Photos

Huntsman

It’s hard for me to keep up with all the new merchandise arriving for the holidays. I try to stay interested, but, honestly, scarves, teacups, mugs, and tea towels don’t do much for me. I’m hot by nature, black and close to the ground, so gloves and mufflers are rather lost on me. I’m more of a Barbour waxed clothing sort of fellow. Oh, that smell when it comes right out of the bag, glorious. Now, serving pieces, those thrill me. I take great interest in anything that might someday hold leftovers. The fancier the dish, the better the flavor, I say.

And we have an event coming up that I’m positively looking forward to.

Rita Mae Brown is visiting on December 3rd. She’s always cheerful, and she’ll be signing her latest book, Fox and Furious. Marion is making it a proper holiday party with catering, fancy desserts, and drinks. Oh my, what an evening that will be!

We don’t yet know when my new roommate will actually arrive, as he’s being chauffeured down from the cold, blustery West as I put paw to paper. You know, I was very popular in the kennel in Montana; everyone was quite fond of me. I hope the breeder, Diane, will tell the new fellow what a fine post I’ve secured here in Virginia.

I do wonder if Diane will remember me.

Middleburg Hunt Opening Meet

Whitestone Farm, November 1, 2025

Middleburg Photo

Claudia Coleman illustration

Huntsman Richard Roberts pauses with the hounds of Middleburg Hunt against a classic Virginia autumn background during Opening Meet.

And the pair looked perfect when mounted and ready to move off for the day’s sport.

Ashley Hubbard made sure his 13-year-old daughter, Elivia, would be properly turned out for her first Opening Meet.

AMBERCROMBIE & FITCH DEMITASSE CUPS Set of eight. Gold handles. #733-2010-003 (HC1A)

ROYAL DOULTON 1930s WALL HANGING 15" CHARGERS

This is the first pair this size we've seen. (HC1B) Also available, a 14" similar charger. 1950s. #9396-001 (HC1F)

ENAMEL PAINTED COCKTAIL SET

Silver-plated fittings, set includes:

#2516-006 (HC1B)

BROWN LUSTER PLATTER

19th Century, 18.5" #5100-1112 (HC1C)

ARTHUR DAVIS OIL PAINTING #3 (British-active 1877-1905)

33" x 37.5" #5000-042101 (HC1E)

and

Spode Bone China England 22k gold rims. 16 place setting / 94 pieces. Highly collectible unique plate set. #5000-1123-01 (HC1H) rare 1950s herring hunt service set

CREST COMICAL HUNT PLATES Pickard China, Gold Rim 6 - 10" dinner plates, 6 - 8.5" plates #9381-007 (HC1G)

FOX MASK DEMITASSE SET

Hand painted cups

saucers. Signed Reinbold. Set of 12. #5100-1212-05 (HC1D)

BOAR TUSK HUNTSMAN CANDLE HOLDERS

1860s, Set of 2. #1867-102102 (HC2A)

EQUESTRIAN EPERGNE & DESK PIECE

Made in England, 19th century.

23" x 12" x 8", #3471-10303 (HC2D)

EDWARDIAN CORDIAL DECANTER Enameled decanter, 8" tall. #5100-0421-01 (HC2B)

THE CLOSE FINISH For the Lincolnshire Heat by John Beer (British 1883-1915) dated 1902. Frame 23” x 18.75". #5000-032 (HC2C)

HARE & FOX FRENCH CARVED WOOD #5201-088 (HC2J)

ART NOUVEAU INKWELL

Beautifully rendered with the grace and motion of the era. From an important Virginia estate. A distinguished & rare find for the serious collector. 9.5" W × 6.5" H × 5.5" D Please call for details. #9415-01 (HC2E)

SODA GLASS CARRIAGE SCENE VASE 10" x 7", #1867525-02 (HC2H)

FOUR MINTON DOORKNOBS, 19th century doorknobs. Each knob is 2.75" in diameter. #2508-005 (HC2K)

#9382-001(HC2F)

HUNTSCENE CARAFE 9" Tall #1867052401 (HC2G)

BRONZE FOX CANDLESTICKS 1890s 10.25" Tall. #3544-101301 (HC2L)

ENAMEL

GUCCI STERLING FOXMASK PAPER HOLDER

052401 (HC2G

BLACK FOREST FOXHEAD WALL SHELVES

Wooden. Sold as a pair. 8" x 8" #5000-0222-03 (HC3A)

LEATHER HORSESHOE CROP HOLDER

20" x 21". Made in Italy. #2118-024 (HC3C)

RUMSEY POLO PLAYER BRONZE 1920s. 19" x 20" x 5". #1867-0422-01 (HC3G)

WHEELER PAINTING (British 1821-1903)

Canvas 12" x 18"

Frame 24" x 18" #5000-0708 (HC3B)

BRASS FOXMASK SINGLE FACE CLOCK

Set in horseshoe frame. 7" x 5.5" #5100-121801 (HC3E)

BOOT & CROP RACK

45" x 33". #9375-001 (HC3J)

7" x 5 5" 121801

DOULTON DAPPLE GREY PONY FIGURE

6.5" x 3" x 7.25". 1938-1960 Artist W.M. Chance #9165-007 (HC3D)

FOX IN HORSESHOE INKWELL #2517-009 (HC3H) -1960

STAFFORSHIRE HORSEHEAD WALL SHELVES

JOY AND GRIEF PAINTINGS

Set of 2 Frank Gillette paintings. Copper frames. 20" x 16". #2118-010014 (HC3K)

Late 19th pair

Late 19th century. Sold as a pair. #4701-0118-001 (HC3F)

A.B. FROST HUNTING PLATES

ABFROSTHUNTINGPLATES

HORSE INKWE #2517-

Set of 12. Each plate has a different scene. #5000-0721-01 (HC3L)

HORN & HORSESHOE ANDIRONS

Brass over cast iron. 21" Tall. #1867-102101 (HC3M)

Shop online! www.HorseCountryCarrot.com

14K HUNTER WITH HORN CRYSTAL PENDANT/PIN

Made in France. Seed pearl border. Pendant doubles as a pin. NECKLACE SOLD SEPARATELY

Pendant/Pin #9402-001 (HC4A)

Necklace #GOC-18 (HC4B)

CUSTOM NOW AND FOREVER CRYSTAL PIN

14k pin with large square crystal. 1960s. #9341-002 (HC4C)

TWO FOX HEAD RING 14k gold. #9319-042 (HC4E)

HUNTER GG CRYSTAL EARRINGS

14k yellow gold & 14k backs. Crystals are signed. #9335-003 (HC4D)

BARBOUR® ANCIENT TARTAN WOOL SCARF #4-US0001TN (HC4N) $65.00

WINTER DEFENSE UTILITY JACKET

Heavyweight windproof wax cotton. Olive. Sizes US6 - US14. #4-LW1066OL (HC4P) $465.00

ZARA WAXED COTTON HAT

Adjustable inner band. One size. Navy/Navy #1856-LWH01A (HC4Q) $95.00

Navy/Purple #1856-LWH01D (HC4R) $95.00

Other colors available.

FOX HEAD RUBY EYES RING 14k gold. Size 3.5. #222-0424-01 (HC4F)

HORSES CRYSTAL BRACELET WATCH

CRYSTAL FOXMASK IN HORN BROOCH

1.75". 14k Gold. #9406-003 (HC4G)

Two horse head crystals. 14k. 17" in length. #9341-001 (HC4H)

DUBLIN BRACELET

Sterling Silver. 14K gold nails and toe clip. Each piece is numbered. Edition of 50. Made in the USA. #57-1000-BRC (HC4J) #57-1010-BRC w/ 14k bit (HC4K)

WHITE PEBBLE PEARL

EARRINGS & NECKLACE

Pebble pearl measures 18 x 16mm. Polished 14 karat gold over brass.

Earrings #1177-GVEP4 (HC4L) $112.50

Necklace #1177-GVNP3 (HC4M) $395.00

BARBOUR® WAXED COTTON LINNEA JACKET Cut to mid length. Adjustable sleeves. Navy. Sizes US6 -US14. #4-LW1270NY (HC4S) $400.00

BARBOUR® QUILTED BEADNELL POLARQUILT

280gm ﬂeece lined. Sizes US6 - US14. Olive. #4-LQ0471OL (HC4T) $295.00

HIMALYAN FOXMASK ZIP SWEATER

100% wool outer. Sizes SM-MD. #5203-611012 (HC5A) $196.00

HEATHER PURPLE TWEED HAT

Made in England

100% wool. One size. #1170-R4770T (HC5B) $105.00

HERITAGE QUILTED JACKET

Olive. Sizes XS - XL. #2049-LJ010 (HC5C) $148.00

HIGHLAND TWEED COGNAC GLOVES

Fine leather made in England. Available in Sizes 6.5- 8.0. #1272-DG03CG (HC5D) $125.00

WOOL POOCH DOG HAT

BASEL VEST

Navy or Orange.

Highly insulated. Sizes XS - XL.

Navy #4333-LQV01A (HC5F) $61.95

Orange #4333-LQV01B (HC5G) $61.95

Fleece lined. One size. #5203-LH0030 (HC5H) $36.95

BARN BLAZER WATERPROOF BOOTS

Available in Grey/Navy or Tan/Brown

Sizes 7 - 9.5 (HC5J) $159.00

Grey/Navy #1773-800161

Tan/Brown #1773-800160

WINDMERE WINTER COUNTRY BOOT

Fully waterproof. Sizes 7-11 #315-21534 (HC5K) $239.95

Chrysalis

The ultimate in stylish weather gear. Fine woolen tweeds with Permatex® lining makes this jacket breathable yet waterproof. Pockets for everything. Assorted tweed patterns.

CHRYSALIS CAPRICE CAPES

CHRYSALIS BLOOMSBURY BLUE PURPLE #559-BLT928 (HC5L) $1195.00

Waterproof & Breathable. Available in several colorways.

Brown Houndstooth #559-C-K523

Green #559-C-K503

Light Blue #559-C-KPB0

Loden Green #559-C-LOD2 (HC5M) $1050.00

LADIES' ATHOLL SHOOTING VEST

Made in London. Rugged Italian Duck Cotton. Sizes SM - XL. Orange #1450-LVSH001 (HC6A) $495.00 Green #1450-LVSH002 (HC6B) $495.00

SCOTTISH TWEED BALL CAPS

Made in England, Adjustable Brown #284-BC0011 (HC6J) $105.00 Blue #284-BC0010 (HC6K) $105.00

POINTER ON PLAID MUFFLERS

Made in Italy. 69" x 26". Wool/Silk. Olive #1450-MM714C Red #1450-MM714B Blue #1450-MM714A (HC6D) $220.00 each

CLAYPOOL SHOOTING GLOVE

Made in Italy. Brown. Soft genuine leather. Trigger ﬁnger slit with Velcro tab. Men's and Ladies'. Available in sizes 6.5-11. #1898-U8# (HC6C) $140.00

CHESTNUT BRIDLE HIP FLASK

Made in England. Stainless steel ﬂask wrapped in bridle leather.

4 oz #3235-044 (HC6L) $89.00

6 oz # 3235-041 (HC6M) $99.00

SHOT SHELL BELT

Havana. Sizes 32 - 40. #876-2151 (HC6E) $73.50

MEN'S FINLEY SHOOTING VEST

For Men & Women

Olive. 100% cotton twill. Fully lined. Adjustable back. Recoil pad. Pockets with drainage holes. Available in sizes SM-XL. #1833-MV0001A (HC6G) $239.95

PTARMIGAN WATERPROOF SHOOTING JACKET

GORE-TEX®. Lightly insulated. Forest Green. Available in sizes 40-50. #1833-MJ00020 (HC6F) $749.95

TRIO MAXI SHOOTING STICK

Made in England, Feather-light #883-MAXI, $85.00 (HC6H)

WARREN SHERLING GLOVES

Men's & Ladies'. Brown. Available in sizes 6.5-11. #1272-0427/8 (HC6P) $195.00

MEN'S WARRENTON PADDOCK SHOE Made in England. Eight eyelet lace. Available in sizes 8-12. #23491/17 (HC6N) $695.00

MEN'S CHASSEUR RUBBER BOOT

Imported from France. Leather lining. Waterproof. Available in sizes US8-US13. #3352-BCB1178 (HC6R) $499.00

Denim

sizes MD-XL. #1454-MDJ002, $269.00 (HC6Q)

MEN'S DENIM/ LEATHER JACKET

with leather trims. Available in

BARBOUR® CRUSHABLE BUSHMAN

100% wool felt with leather band. Available in sizes SM-XL. #4-H17 (HC7A) $90.00

BARBOUR® CORBRIDGE WAXED UTILITY JACKET

Available in MD & LG. Slim cut. #4-MW0340OL (HC7D) $475.00

BARBOUR® POLARQUILT ZIP-IN QUILTED LINER/VEST

Olive. Available in sizes XS-XXL. #4-MLI002OL (HC7B) $150.00

BARBOUR® WAXED COTTON BEDALE JACKET

Men's & Ladies'. Available in sizes 32-54. #4-A320-SGE (HC7C) $415.00

MEN'S BARBOUR® SHOVELER QUILTED JACKET

Dark Olive. Available in sizes MDXXL. #4-MQ0784OL (HC7E) $300.00

MEN'S BARBOUR® FLEECE LANGDALE VEST

Leather trim. Washable. Available in sizes MD-XXL. #4-MF0079OL (HC7H) $145.00

BARBOUR® STANHOPE OLIVE WAX HAT

MEN'S FITTED BARBOUR QUILTED LIDDESDALE

Contrast corduroy collar. Available in sizes MD-XXL. #4-MQ0240GN (HC7F) $240.00

Fold down ear ﬂaps. Available in sizes MDXL. #4-MH0044OL (HC7J) $75.00

HORSES MUFFLER/SCARF

Made in England. 12" x 64". Wool/Silk. Olive #1872-MM001B Navy #1872-MM001C Sage #1872-MM001A (HC7K) $262.50 each

MEN'S BARBOUR® WESTMORELAND WAXED VEST

Relaxed ﬁt. Lightly wadded for extra warmth. Available in sizes MD-XXL. #4-MW0723OL (HC7G) $325.00

LEATHER RYE HANDBAG

BLACK FOREST HORSE HEAD NECKLACE

EVERLY LACED LEATHER JACKET

MIRANDA SUEDE JACKET

JESSIE SUEDE FRINGE JACKET

PHOENIX SUEDE VEST

fur. Lightweight.

100% Cotton. 21" x 21". Made in the USA. Artwork by Claudia Coleman. Quote by Will Ogilvie: "The soul of a horseman sings for joy of a hunting morn." #1968-WHO-(Color) (HC9A) $24.95

RANCH TAN LEATHER VEST

sizes

Available in sizes 40-50. Regular & long sizes. #1454-MLV040 (HC9B) $195.00

Available in sizes MD-4X. #1454-MLV030 (HC9C) $175.00

Available in sizes MD-XL. #1454-MLJ002 (HC9F) $415.00

DISTRESSED NAVY LEATHER VEST

Available in sizes 40-50. Regular & long sizes. #1454-MLV040 (HC9D) $195.00

LEATHER SHIRT JACKET

MEN'S LANDON LEATHER BLAZER

Buttery soft lambskin.

Available in

42-48. #1454-MLJ011 (HC9E) $525.00

CRUZ RIBBED LEATHER VEST

Available in sizes MD-XL. #1454-MLV011 (HC9G) $525.00

DUSTIN RIBBED LEATHER VEST

Two-tone soft lambskin leather.

Available in sizes MD-XXL. #1454-MLV050 (HC9H) $398.00

WILDER BOAR SUEDE VEST

JOY HUNTING MORN BANDANA

HAMPTON LUXURY LEATHER BACKPACK

Made in England. 12" x 12" x 8".

Available in Black, Havana and Cognac. #3235-BACKPACK (HC10A) $533.00

SOUTHWEST LONG CARDIGAN SWEATER

Available in sizes MD-LG. #1454-LSJ001 (HC10B) $110.00

FARM TOILE QUILTED JACKET

Made in Fort Worth, Texas! Available in sizes SM-XL. #2095-01 (HC10C) $179.00

HIMALYAN

FOXMASK SWEATER

Hand knitted wool. Available in sizes SM-LG. #5203-611011 (HC10D) $169.00

MEAD CASUAL RIDING BOOT

Go from town, to chores, to saddle. Full grain oiled leather.Available in sizes 6.5-10.5. Black #2039-470820A (HC10K) $258.95

Brown #2039-470820B (HC10L) $258.95

ITALIAN LEATHER SADDLE HANDBAG

11.5" x 8.5" x 3". Tan. #3461-SAD-PAO (HC10J) $995.00

ROUND 1" RAISED BELTS

Made in the USA. Choose Oak or Havana. Available in sizes 30-42.

Havana #876-2165 (HC10F) $73.50

Oak #876-2163 (HC10G) $73.50

CLASSIC BIT & CHAIN PRINT

SCARF

100% Silk. 21" x 67". Black & Orange. #1882-SSC02 (HC10E) $115.00

Also

"THE DRAW" SILK SCARF

Made in England. 35" square. Choose Purple, Orange, or Olive.

Purple #1450-LSCF012

Orange #1450-LSCF010

Olive #1450-LSCF011 (HC10M) $295.00

MORVEN LEATHER HANDBAG 10" x 12" x 5". Camel. #1971-HB0012 (HC10H) $269.00

available in Black and Navy.

BLUE LITHO LEAF SWEATER Super soft lightweight material. Available in sizes SM-LG. #1774-LCS02 (HC10N) $118.00

BIT OF FROST FLEECE SHIRT

WHISTLEJACKET

PIXIE DUSTER

100% soft viscose, Light & airy. One size ﬁts most. Duster #2088LSK010 (HC11A) $120.00

Scarf (not shown) #2088-LSC010 (HC11B) $48.00

Slimming. Warm & four-way stretch. Available in sizes SM-LG. #1773-40681OF (HC11E) $74.00

HOUNDTOOTH SHIRT

BLACK-BROWN

Lightweight. Ice Feel Fabric. Available in sizes XS-XL. #1938-LRS030 (HC11C) $72.95

FOREST HORSES NAVY SOFTSHELL JACKET

Soft & snuggly ﬂeece lining. Flattering ﬁt & removable hood. Available in sizes SM-XL. #1938LJ0001 (HC11F) $149.95

Leather & Stirrups Crew Shirt

Available in sizes XS-XL. #1774-LCT01 (HC11J) $85.00

HEIRLOOM HOUNDSTOOTH SWEATSHIRT

1/2 button-up pullover. Oversized ﬁt. Available in sizes SM-XL. #1938-LSW001 (HC11D) $89.95

BARBOUR® OLIVE QUILTED TOTE

Zip closure, removable pouch. 11.5" x 19" x 4.5" #4-LB0395OL (HC11G) $130.00

REGAL PALM SWEATER

BARBOUR® BRAMBLES DOG PRINT SHIRT A multitude of charming pups. Available in sizes US6-US12. #4-LS1644DP (HC11H) $120.00

Super soft lightweight material. Availble in sizes XS-LG. #1774-LCS01 (HC11K) $118.00

ORIGINAL 5/A BAKER PLAID COLLECTION Trimmed in the ﬁnest quality leather Garment Bag #3077-BORGBAG (HC11L) $229.00

Duffle Bag #124-DB&S (HC11M) $365.00

Tote Bag #1486-33169 (HC11N) $359.00

VIYELLA 1/4 ZIP SWEATERS

100% Fine Merino Wool. Leather Trim, ribbed cuff & bottom. Available in sizes SM-LG. Orange #1615-618S10 (HC12A) $230.00 Red #1615-618S11 (HC12B) $230.00

MEN'S BORSALINO FAIR HILL LIGHT BROWN

100% Fur Felt. Handmade in Italy. 5" pinched crown, 2.5" brim, water repellent. #1104-114336C (HC12F) $395.00

Other styles & colors are available.

FOX ON WALK BOWTIES Made in England. 100% Woven Silk. Navy #1450-BT02A Olive #1450-BT02B Copper #1450-BT02C Yellow #1450-BT02D (HC12G) $78.00

HORSE COUNTRY® SIGNATURE TAGS

Luggage / Bag Tag

TIES Handmade in England. Woven silk tie. Navy #989-M5049-1NVY Green #989-M5049-3GRN (HC12C) $98.00 each

VIYELLA® V68 SHIRT

20% Merino Wool, 80% Cotton Navy/Brown/White. Classic ﬁt. Available in sizes MD-XXL. #1615-653V65 (HC12E) $165.00

20% Merino Wool, 80% Cotton. Sage Green Plaid. Classic ﬁt. Available in sizes MD-XL. #1615-655V68 (HC12D) $165.00

VIYELLA SPORT BLAZER TWEEDS

100% Wool. Elbow patch. Available is sizes 36-44 short & regular. Tan/Brown Check #1615-BL023 Brown/Rust #1615-BL029 (HC12H) $495.00

HORSE COUNTRY SIGNATURE SHIRT Cranberry Red VII04. 100% cotton. Regular ﬁt. Available in sizes MD-XL. #1450-VII04 (HC12K) $225.00

BLACK LEATHER BUSINESS CARDHOLDER

Emblazoned with our huntsman silhouette. #226-W37 (HC12N) $28.95

HARROW HANBURY 1" DRESS BELT

Made in England. Hand-stitched best bridle leather. Available in sizes 30"-42" Brown #3289-HANBURY-BRN Black #3289-HANBURY-BLK (HC12Q) $155.00 each

HOLDALL DUFFLE BAG

VIYELLA® V65 SHIRT

MEN'S ETHAN CORDUROY JACKET

Everyday casual jacket. Button up. Regular ﬁt. Available in sizes 44-48.

Rust #1450-VIIJ3 (HC13A) $450.00

Gold #1450-VIIJ2 (HC13B) $450.00

BARBOUR® PURE COTTON SHIRTS

100% Cotton. Available in size MD-XL. Hogside Tartan #4-MS5048TN (HC13C) $110.00

Autumn Tartan #4-MS5048AD (HC13D) $110.00

UPTON REVERSIBLE ASCOT

Made in the USA. 100% Silk. Blue/Navy #569-ASC016 (HC13E) $125.00

FOXHUNTING INSIGNIA TIES

BARBOUR® MALLARD GREEN SHIRT

100% cotton. Regular Fit. Available in size MD-XL. #4-MS5500GN (HC13F) $110.00

BARBOUR® ARCHER SWEATER

BROWN HERRINGBONE VEST

Mid-weight wool blend cloth. Purple paisley satin lining. Adjustable back. Available in sizes 36-54 Regular & Long.

MTV26 (HC13K) $125.00

Handmade in England. Italian silk.

Navy #569-76430-NVY Navy Red #569-76430-RED Red

Hunter Green #569-76430-GRN

Rust #569-76430-RST Rust (HC13H) $90.00 each

Light Blue. 100% Lightweight Cotton. Half-zip jumper. Available in sizes MD-XXL. #4-MK1074BL (HC13G) $140.00

GREY BLACK HERRINGBONE VEST

Mid-weight wool blend cloth. Navy and red satin lining, adjustable back. Available in sizes 40-54 Regular & Long.

MTV27 (HC13L) $125.00

BARBOUR® GAMLIN WATERPROOF SWEATER

Olive. Zipped stand collar. Luxuriously Merino wool. Waterproof lining. Available in sizes MD-XL. #4-MK1213OL (HC13J) $225.00

BARBOUR® KELSON 1/2 ZIP SWEATER MALLARD

70% Cotton, 30% Wool (Ovine). Ribbed half-zip neckline, cuffs and hem. Blue/Green (Mallard) Available in sizes MD-XXL. #4-MK1654GN (HC13P) $150.00

SCOTTISH HARRIS TWEED CAPS Made from 100% Pure Wool. Brown #284-TC0022 (HC13M) $115.00 Blue #284-TC0010 (HC13N) $115.00

HUNT BUTTON RED AFGHAN

Honoring the hunts of Virginia. 65" x 52". Fox in the center. #422-022 (HC14A) $122.00

ROYAL HORSEHEAD KNOCKERS

9.5" x 6.5" x .75"

Cast from pewter.

Brass Plated #2057-DK010 (HC14F) $395.00

Brushed SIlver #2057-DK011 (HC14G) $375.00

Gold Plated #2057-DK012 (HC14H) $425.00

EQUESTRIAN BOOKSHELF PILLOW

18" x 18". Tassel fringe. #3340-31154PF (HC14B) $99.95

MASTER MALLARD LAMP

Ceramic ﬁgure 10" Tall. 23" tall on a 4" base. #2462-4116-L (HC14L) $295.00

BARN FRIENDS DOORMAT

100% Polyester ﬁber. 21" x 33". Slip resistant. #1247-DM0400 (HC14M) $47.99

SADDLE & BOOTS PILLOW

22" x 22". Suede fringe. #2309-NI (HC14C) $178.00

VIXEN AND KIT FOOTSTOOL

Hardwood frame with hand carving. 16.5". Cream, Tan. #1265-SFRBR2 (HC14E) $650.00

FULL CRY ACCENT RUG

FOXHEAD DOOR KNOCKERS

3.75" x 3" x 3". Hand-crafted. Nickel #1787-DK003

Brass #1787-DK002

Bronze #1787-DK004 (HC14D) $69.00

100% wool. Hand spun & hand woven. 3.5' x 5.5'. #1265-RUG010 (HC14J) $1899.00

HUNT HOMESTEAD DOORMAT

100% Super Soft Polyester. 22" x 32". Indoor/ Outdoor. #1247-DM0010 (HC14P) $31.50

BOLD RULER THOROUGHBRED LAMP

Resin with wooden base. Fabric shade. 24" tall. #3026-583BL (HC14K) $600.00

UGLY SWEATER FOX PILLOW

18" square, polyester #1923-TP0001 (HC14N) $29.95

EQUESTRIAN ALUMINUM BIT FRAME Two sizes available: 8" x 10" #4005-300576 (HC14Q) $81.00 5" x 7" #4005-103580 (HC14R) $57.00

FRANCIS GOLD BIT FRAME

Luxury textured aluminum. 4" x 6", Gold tone. #1303-FR0001 (HC14S) $76.95

Horse Country® Exclusive

ELIZA'S ELLIOT FOX WALL ART

Cast aluminum. 10" x 15.5" #2076-7510000 (HC15A) $145.00

ELIZA'S ELLIOT FOX BUST FIGURE

Cast aluminum.

Antique gold ﬁnish. Bespeckled fox. 14" tall. #2076-7567100. (HC15E) $110.00

HORN CANDELABRA

Antique brass ﬁnish.

14.5" x 23.5" (20lbs). In-store pick up only. #1195-992048 (HC15H) $1072.50

ELIZA'S ELLIOT FOX WITH DISH FIGURE

Metal stand. Brassgold ﬁnish, 12". #2076-7504000 (HC15B) $75.00

LAB UMBRELLA LAMP

Handcrafted, silver plated dog. Umbrella crafted from yellow tiger penshell. #323-LAMP02 (HC15J) $1650.00

HORSE HEAD RACK OAK

Made in the USA. 10" x 11" #3026-926HBBW (HC15C) $245.00

GOLD LEAF HAND CAST BOWLS

Legs are Horse Heads.

Large 10" x 10", Medium 8" x 5", Small 6" x 4".

Large #2077-ABL01 (HC15K) $138.00

Medium #2077-ABM01 (HC15L) $97.50 Small #2077-ABS01 (HC15M) $82.50

WEAVER ALUMINUM BIT BOWLS

Choose from 3 sizes: SM 10", MD 12", LG 15"

Small #1303-SB0030 (HC15R) $118.95

Medium #1303-SB0031 (HC15S) $144.95

Large #303-SB0032 (HC15T) $178.95

STYLIZED HORSE VASE/UMBRELLA STAND 22" tall. Brown. #1195-880942, (HC15D) $115.00

FOX ON THE RUN BOX

6.5" x 4.5" x 2.25" #3041WB65002 (HC15G) $49.95

DREAMS COME TRUE HORSES SHEET SET

Crafted from 100% premium percale cotton. Twin (HC15N) $140.99

Queen (HC15P) $180.99 #3275-BS001

MURANO GLASS

FOX 7.5" FIGURE

Made in Italy. Mouth blown. #1195-660096. (HC15Q) $176.00

Leather ribbon trim & bit accent.

Choose Black or Brown. 12" x 9" x 5.75".

Black #2077-BX001

Brown #2077-BX002 (HC15V) $225.00 each

NATURAL CANVAS BOXES

BELMONT CHEESE/CAKE PEDESTAL

Hand Polished Aluminum Alloy. 13" Diameter. #4005-202E31 (HC16A) $185.00

BELMONT WOODEN CADDY

High quality solid, lead-free pewter. Use at home or tailgating. 11" x 4.5" x 7.5" #4005-H264LB (HC16C) $123.00

BELMONT BIT CHIP & DIP Handmade from aluminum. 15.0" x 15.0" x 1.0". #4005-103698 (HC16B) $209.00

RENARDO COVERED ICE BUCKET

Made in Italy. Pewter. 11.5" x 11" #3329-7400 (HC16E) $1500.00

SILVER RUNNING FOX

PLACE CARD SET

Made in England. Set of 6. Detailed fox. English sterling hallmark. #977-011 (HC16L) $1150.00

ATWOOD DOUBLE OLD FASHION GLASSES

The ﬁnest quality European crystal. Set/4. Multi-layered etching. Mare & Foal #1897-GSA001 (HC16F)$219.00 Bit #1897-GSB001 (HC16G) $219.00

PEWTER FOX KNIFE REST

Set of 4. Hand poured, lead-free. 3.6" #1986-00001 (HC16M) $39.95

BLANKETED HORSE TUMBLERS

12 oz. Double-wall insulated.

Stainless steel. BPA free.

Palomino #3275-WG0001

Grey #3275-WG0003

Bay #3275-WG0002 (HC16N) $21.95 each

BELMONT SUGAR, CREAMER, & TRAY

Pure-pewter accents. #4005-H317EQ (HC16D) $188.00

BELMONT ICE TUB BUCKET / PUNCH BOWL

Italian glass, detailed in luxury pewter. #4005-H419HL (HC16H) $795.00

Horse Country® Exclusive

FULL CRY DOUBLE OLD FASHION GLASSES

A Horse Country® Exclusive Made in the USA. Set of Two. Etched hounds in full cry. #1416-HC/001 (HC16J) $72.00

HORSE HEAD CRYSTAL CLARET JUG

Made in England. Sterling collar. English sterling hallmarks. #977-045 (HC16K) $1900.00

Set of 4. Zinc & stainless steel. 2" x 2.5". #1976-NR001 (HC16P) $28.95

HUNT VALLEY ICE BUCKET GREEN

Lucite. Huntscene

Custom fabric. 8" Tall. #1661-CB1 (HC16Q) $89.95

HORSESHOE NAPKIN RINGS

BELMONT SMALL STONEWARE PLATTER

Made in the USA. Stoneware & Pewter. 17.5" x 11" x 1.5". #4005-H306E (HC17A) $313.00

BELMONT ALUMINUM BIT PLATTER

Handmade. 19" x 14.5". #4005-103650 (HC17B) $158.00

BELMONT BAMBOO SERVING SET

Includes Knife, Tray, & Bamboo board. Pewter Bit Accent. #4005-104180 (HC17C) $97.00

HORSE TRAY

Metal frame, removable glass insert. 20" x 13". #4005-425H23 (HC17H) $335.00

BENTLEY ALUMINUM HORSEHEAD TRAY

Aluminum. 24" x 8". #4005-102218 (HC17D) $142.00

BAMBOO

CUTTING BOARDS

Corgi 11" x 8" #2084-CB003 (HC17P) $28.95

Donkeys 11" x 8" #2084-CB005 (HC17Q) $28.95

Donkeys 6" x 9" #2084-CB100 (HC17R) $19.95

GREYSEN ALUMINUM STIRRUP TRAY

5" x 12" x 17.5" #4005-112H14 (HC17J) $198.00

SOLOGNE GIEN COLLECTION

Fine china. Made in France. Plates are 9.25" diameter.

Red Fox Plate #1753-FOXDP (HC17T) $48.00

Pheasant Plate #1753-PHSDP (HC17U) $48.00

Pheasant Platter #1753-PHSTR (HC17V) $276.00

WEST WALES FOX TABLE SETTINGS

Made in Italy. Cork back. Hard coating over 100% linen fabric.

Placemats, set of 2. #2002-001 (HC17E) $145.00

Coasters #2002-010 (HC17F) $19.50 each Napkins, set of 2. #2002-030 (HC17G) $75.00

PERSIAN BLANKETED HORSE CHINA

Made of high-grade bone china.

Packaged in elegant and safe boxes. Demitasse Set #2085-DS001 (HC17K) $29.95

Mug & Saucer #2085-TC001 (HC17L) $29.95

set of 2 #2085-CP001 (HC17M) $39.95

#2085-MG001 (HC17N) $29.95

FOXES GATHERING VINYL PLACEMATS

14" x 14" Octagon shape. Set of 2. #2346-2401 (HC17S) $49.95

PAUL BROWN LUCITE TRAYS

1950s Paul Brown fabric in Lucite. 11" x 17" #4337-PB-LG (HC17W) $54.95 8" x 12" #4337-PB-MD (HC17X) $39.95 4" x 6.25" #4337-PB-XS (HC17Y) $19.95

MORNING HUNT NAPKINS & PLACEMATS

100% Cotton, Sets of 2. Placemats #1256-AMHTPM (HC17Z) $43.00 Napkins #1256-AMHTNK (HC17AA) $32.00

NOBLE

KNOT-FREE HAIRNET

2 hairnets & 2 ties in each pack.

Blonde #2036-HN001A

Light Brown #2036-HN001B

Medium Brown #2036-HN001C

GREENE#2 WOOL GLOVE

Made of ﬁne lambswool. Available in sizes 7-11. #1970-GGN (HC18B) $59.95

Dark Brown/Brunette #2036-HN001D

Black #2036-HN00 (HC18A) $7.00 each

(HC18E) $995.00

BAILEY LONG SLEEVE

Green. Stretchy and Breathable. Available in sizes SM-XL. #4333-LRS061 (HC18C) $55.95

FIAN HELMETS BY CHARLES OWENS

ASTM/SEI Certiﬁed. Classic proﬁle. Choose from Black, Navy, & Brown. Available in sizes 6 5/8 - 7 5/8. #2036-NFFH (HC18D) $399.00

KERRITS 3SEASON WINTER BREECH

GABBY COMPRESSION

WAVERLY BLACK & TAN, AND WATERLOO BOOTS

Available in Men’s & Ladies’. Regular, Slim, Wide & Xwide calf sizes. Waverly Black (HC18J) $945.00

Waverly Tan (HC18K) $945.00 Waterloo Tan Top (HC18L) $899.00

Fleece-lined for warmth. Wind and water-resistant. Available in sizes XS-XL. #1773-50268SD (HC18M) $149.00

KNEE PATCH BREECH

Mid-rise, midweight 4-way stretch. Available in sizes 22-26. Tan #327-LBKP022 (HC18N) $190.00 Also available in black, brown, & full seat.

VICMEAD LV30 TWEED JACKET

Dark Red with gold/olive windowpane. Sizes 34-44 (HC18F) $995.00

VICMEAD LV31 TWEED JACKET Rust Green Plaid. Sizes 34-46 (HC18G) $995.00

VICMEAD LV32 TWEED JACKET Aqua / Salmon Plaid. Sizes 34-44 (HC18H) $995.00

VICMEAD LV29 TWEED JACKET Blue/Green Herringbone Sizes 34-46

PALMYRA COTTON MESH GLOVE

Palms are made from genuine goat leather. Ivory/Cognac. Available in sizes 6-10. #2082-RG020 (HC19A) $78.0

FOUR FOLD SKY BLUE

Made in England. 100% Cotton. #4F-154 (HC19B) $73.95

MEN'S MTV21 TATTERSAL VEST

Wool with satin back. Navy, Gold & Olive tattersal. Sizes 36-48 Reg. & Long. (HC19C) $289.00

Formal Hunting

For Men & Women

BRANDYWINE

MIDWEIGHT HUNT COAT

CHATHAM MEDIUMWEIGHT MC38

Cream Italian cotton. Suede storm tab. Sizes 38-48, some in Short, Reg., & Long. (HC19G) $895.00

MEN'S PERTH THREE-BUCKLE FIELD BOOTS

Steer hide, buckle/lace, leather soles. Available in sizes 7.5-11 #1047-002 (HC19K) $1695.00

VICMEAD MIDWEIGHT MV19

VICMEAD MIDWEIGHT MV18

Worsted wool made in England. Sizes 36-48, some in Short, Reg., & Long. Green & Blue/Black (HC19J) $995.00

MOLESKIN CANARY VESTS

Made in England. Cotton moleskin, front and back, lapels with pricked edges. Men's MCV6, Sizes 36-52 (HC19E) $315.00

Ladies' LCV6, Sizes 34-48 (HC19F) $299.00

Made in England. Navy midweight twill cloth. Cotton tattersall lined, 4 button front. Flattering double vent with two buttons.Waterproof skirt. #1547-LHJ1 (HC19D) $1250.00

MEN'S EVAN BREECH BEIGE

4-way stretch compression fabric. Breathable, mid-weight material. Available in sizes 28-38. #327-MBKP020 (HC19L)$190.00

MEN'S MASON BREECH

Stretch fabric & waistband. Classic styling with modern details. Available in sizes 28-38. #1149-MB010 (HC19M) $239.00

CHAGRIN MIDWEIGHT HUNT COAT

Satin body lining. Choose Black or Navy. Available in Men's & Ladies'. (HC19N) $795.00

OAKLEY PINK FROCK COAT

Made in England. Athletic cut. Medium weight twill, satin lining. Waterproof skirt lining with game pocket. Available in Men's & Ladies'. (HC19P) $1295.00 and up

Made in England. Tightly woven. Sizes 36-50, some in Short, Reg., & Long. Blue (HC19H) $950.00 T 00

KERRITS RIDE THE WIND HOODIE & VEST

Cozy ﬂeece inside, & soft exterior. Sage. Available in sizes SM-XL.

Hoodie #1773-60337SG (HC20A) $59.00

Reversible Vest #1773-60316BK (HC20B) $79.00

CHILD'S UNISEX JACKETS

60% Wool, 40% Polyester. Blue velvet trims on each coat. Horse head buttons. Available in sizes 24-32. (HC20J) $279.99 each Blue Horizon #299-978601; Green Spruce #299-978600

CHILD'S BLACK THERMO TECH TIGHT

Lightly brushed inside for cooler weather.

Available in sizes SM-XL. #1773-60555BK (HC20K) $99.00

CHILD'S LEIGH

TAN JODHPUR

Natural rise, front

zip. Available in sizes 2-16. #1149-CJ0010, (HC20L) $169.00

FLEECE SHIRTS BY KERRITS

Softly brushed inside for warmth. Equestrian prints, sheds hay, horsehair & dirt. Available in sizes MD-XL.

Horse Around #1773-60259BH (HC20C) $69.00

Black Fairy Top #1773-60334FT (HC20D) $74.00

CHILD’S STAR ZIP PADDOCK SHOE

All-weather, Synthetic leather. Available in toddler and youth sizes. #2039-CP01CH (HC20F) $54.95

FLEECE LINED WINNY PONY SWEATERS

Choose off-white, or seafoam.

Available in sizes 3T-6T. Cream #2083-E9200#T Seafoam #2083-E9900#T (HC20G) $41.99 each

GIRL'S ROSE HORSE TOILE TOP

Lightweight, Ice Feel Fabric. Available in sizes 4/5-8/9. #1938-GRS010 (HC20E) $49.50

GREENWICH FOX HAT

100% Wool. Sherpa ﬂeece lining. One size ﬁts most. #5203-KH0010 (HC20H) $36.95

GOLD FOX INFANT WEAR

100% organic cotton. Hat (3-18 months) #1624-4314036 (HC20M) $28.00

Romper (0-9 months) #1624-39240(#) (HC20N) $42.00

Bib #1624-4214000 (HC20P) $17.00

GREEN FOXMASK HAT & SWEATER

100% hand-knit Acrylic. Available in size 12 months.

Sweater #2087-SW0101A (HC20Q) $47.50

Hat #2087-BH0101A (HC20R) $29.00

CHILD'S

DIGBY BURGUNDY REFLECTIVE DOG COAT

Waterproof & breathable. Padded lining, reﬂective strips. Available in sizes XS-XL. #299-6892D(#), (HC21K) $44.99

PEEK-A-BOOPLUSH

PEEK-A-BOO PLUSH PURSES

Welded eyes. 7", suitable for all ages

Lucky Pink Bling #222-70002 (HC21A) $29.95

Corgi Cinnamon #222-70139 (HC21B) $29.95

Others available @ horsecountrycarrot.com

CLEVER CHILD 9" STACKABLE FOX PLUSH #2680-BBT02 (HC21C) $26.95

NUDGE HORSE PLUSH

Measure 8" x 15" x 5" #649-002070 (HC21E) $27.99

WOODEN 7" MARE & FOAL TIC TAC TOE

#2680-GAM01, (HC21G) $31.99

SHERBET UNICORN PLUSH 10" #222-70053 (HC21D) $24.95

FOXANDKIT85"

FOX AND KIT 8.5" MAGNETIC PLUSH #2680-STA07 (HC21F) $35.95

PONY AND RIBBONS RUG

100% premium nylon. 3' x 5' #3431-FT40PI3X5 (HC21H) $42.00

5' x 7' #3431-FT40PI5X7 (HC21J) $89.95

Cozy tartan lining. Available in sizes XS-XXL. #4-UA0005OL (HC21L) $80.00

COLORFULLY DOG PRINT DOG BED

Waterproof and easy to clean.

Small (24" x 32") #299-6999BS (HC21M) $39.99

Large (32" x 39") #299-6999BL (HC21N) $61.99

SQUEAKER DOG TOY Tough canvas fabric. 8.5" x 9" #1792-RDT00 (HC21P) $25.00 G 5" x 9"

DOG COUPLES Walk two dogs with 1 leash! Made in USA. Solid brass hardware. #876-CA0010 (HC21R) $43.50

BARBOUR® DOG LEASH & COLLAR Tartan/Webbing. Leash is 3ft. Collar available in SM-LG. Leash #4-UA0136TN (HC21S) $45.00 Collar #4-UA0135TN (HC21T) $40.00 NYLON & RIBBON COLLAR/LEASH SETS Collars: Sm 9"-15", Md 12"-18", Lg 15"-21". Leash is 5.5 ft. Heavy Duty snaps & rings. Choose Sm, MD, or LG. Bow Wow Set #1010-009 Sunny Fox Set #1010-007 (HC21Q) Starting at $49.95

BARBOUR WAX COTTON DOG COAT

RABBIT

LEATHER

FF HUNT BRIDLES

Cob, Horse, XL, and XXL. (HC22A) $560.00

BETTER ENGLISH LEATHER HALTERS

Triple stitched, solid brass hardware.

Available in Cob, Horse, & Oversize.

Starting at $159.99 (HC22E)

Other hunt bridles from $490.00

first flight tack Made in England

Heavy superior quality.

Matches all First Flight tack in color, stitching & leather.

Stainless steel buckles,

FF RUNNING ATTACHMENT

3/4" and fully adjustable. Available in Cob, Horse & Oversize. #962-900 (C,H,X) (HC22B) $89.00

Standing attachment available (not shown).

snaps, and ring.

COUPLES In two sizes: Foxhound and Beagle. Limited supply. Heavy duty hardware, rounded edges for comfort and safety. #212-012 (HC22C) $95.00

WILSON FIVE-POINT LEATHER BREASTPLATE

TECHQUILT CLASSIC PAD

Sizes 17" - 20". #26-3714-(17,18,19)

Starting at $159.95 (HC22J)

SUPERQUILT PAD

WOOLBACK SADDLE PAD

Available in O #962-264 (HC22D) $

Available in Cob, Horse & Oversize. #962-264B-HCRB (HC22D) $375.00

JUMPER BREASTPLATE

Made in America Stainless Steel hardware fittings. Over the wither strap included.

Cob #758-32-34 (HC22F) $176.00

Horse #758-33-34 (HC22G) $176.00

Explore our expansive bit collection — from classic Loose Rings and D-Rings to Pelhams, Gags, Kimberwicks, and beyond. We stock everything from race bits to Happy Mouths and rare, hard-to-find styles for every discipline and every mouth. Whether you're schooling, showing, or solving a training challenge, the right bit is here.

Breathable non-slip mesh and anti-friction.

Made from virgin wool pile fabric. Available in Half Flap & Full Flap. Sizes 17" - 20".

Starting at $199.95 (HC22K)

EMILE ADJUSTABLE SADDLE

Extremely comfortable and well crafted. Call the store for details, available sizes and pricing. (HC22M)

Made in the USA.

Available in Half Flap & Full Flap.

Sizes 17" - 20".

We also stock pony pads, baby pads, seat savers, half pads and more.

THINLINE BROWN WITHER RELIEF PAD Endorsed by Veterinarians #3600-7058-DB (HC22N) $159.00

Starting at $87.95 (HC22L)

AMIGO® RIPSTOP INSULATOR BLANKETS

210D Polyester Diamond Ripstop material. Classic cut design with a straight front closure.

Choose 100gm or 200gm, and add a hood. Green, Available in sizes 69-84. 100gm #ABRDM1 (HC23D) $104.99

200gm #ABRDM2 (HC23E) $109.99

Hood 100gm #ABRHN2-GBI0 (HC23F) $49.99

AMIGO® PLUS TURNOUT FIELDSAFE PLUS REFLECTIVE

Waterproof outer catches light in lowvisibility. Strong 1200D Ripstop Polyester outer. Black. Available in sizes 69-84.

0gm #AANPY0 (HC23A) $234.99

250gm #AANPY5 (HC23B) $249.99

AMIGO® BRAVO 12 PLUS TURNOUT BUNDLE

Waterproof and highly breathable. Strong 1200D Polyester outer. Eliminates the need to buy multiple blankets. Bundle includes two optional liners - a 100g liner and a 200g liner. Detachable neck cover/hood included. Blue with Silver trim. Available in sizes 66-84. #AARDM2 (HC23C) $414.99

ENGLISH STYLE KANGAROO LEATHER HUNT THONG

Made especially for Horse Country®

12 plait with 4 plait inner. Choose from 5' or 6' lengths.

5' Foot #HT-001-98 (HC23G) $395.00 6' Foot #HT-002-98 (HC23H) $410.00

The lateral arm with an opening of 90°. Ergonomic shape, 3D structure. Exchangeable side pieces sold separately. #1938-HSI11 (HC23J) $176.95

PLAIN SILVER SINGLE COLLAR HUNT CROP

Available in Men's, Ladies' or Child's size. Starting at $345.00 (HC23P)

LEATHER HUNTING JOURNAL Made in England for Horse Country® by Swaine Adeney. Leather covered.

Royal Warrant Stamp. 8.5" x 6". #139-HA (HC23Q) $245.00

SWAP SAFETY IRONS 2.0

AMIGO® PLUS

AMIGO® BRAVO 12

AMIGO® RIPSTOP

RAMBO AIRMAX

8"L by 5.5"H.

Black #542-7166-BK

Brass #542-7166-B

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JENNY’S PICKS

If you are within driving distance of Horse Country, consider coming to this year’s booksigning with Rita Mae Brown at the store between 6:00 and 8:00 on December 3. Those who have been before know there’s good food and a good speaker to make the trip worthwhile. Get your book personally autographed! If you plan on coming, please call the store to RSVP so we know how much food to order.

Anderson, J. Harris. Bloodlines and Betrayal. In this novel, the author pulls a minor character from a previous book, Miles Flanagan, to be the protagonist in a dangerous investigation of a rabid White Supremacist/Nazi-worshipping organization. Miles, who was for awhile a member of a Confederate cavalry reenactment unit, has a dark secret he isn’t proud of (read Anderson’s previous book, Paving Paradise, to find out what!), one that the Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney for the county has discovered and uses to blackmail him into investigating the supremacist group. Miles isn’t happy—he doesn’t approve of their views, but the C.A., a Black woman, is adamant: become a “mole” or face criminal charges. Tension builds as Miles tries to find out what is being planned besides a harmless protest gathering against the removal of a statue that is no longer “politically correct.”

There are a few nods to the “horsey world” with several steeplechases, in which Miles serves as a jockey for his friend “Thumper,” whom you may have met in previous novels. Paperback, 314pp. $19.00

Brown, Rita Mae. Fox and Furious. The latest Sister Jane novel is now available! There’s lots of hunting action in this one; this time Rita Mae has picked the Nantucket-Treweryn Beagles of Clarke County, Virginia, to feature alongside a fictitious pack, the Bradford Beagles, for a slice of hunting action. Fear not, foxhunters, there’s plenty of mounted action as well. In fact, I’d almost say this book has the most field action of any from this series.

The action starts when the mother of two men, both Masters of the Bradford Beagles, the family pack, passes away suddenly; her will divides her property equally between both of them. Andrew, the son who inherited the portion where the beagle kennel is located, immediately demands that his brother Winston remove the hounds and kennels from his property—within a week. His nasty manner initiates

OPENING MEETS

HORSE COUNTRY BOOKSELLERS

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a serious fistfight the day the hounds are being removed, ending with Andrew being taken to the hospital by his new trophy wife for knocked-out teeth and screaming, “I’ll kill you!” to Winston. And that’s all I’ll say about the plot. Suffice it to say it’s a book I hated to put down at bedtime for three nights running! Hardcover, 278pp. $30.00

Francis, Felix. Dark Horse. Felix digs into the past that was first established by his father, Dick Francis, to resurrect a fan favorite character when a female jump jockey is accused of the murder of the boyfriend she was trying to break off from. Her fingerprints were found on the murder weapon—certain evidence for a jury to convict her of the crime. But her father, convinced of her innocence, contacts Sid Halley for help. All too soon, Sid finds himself being stalked. As with his father, Felix has the skill to keep you riveted and fearing the next victim will be—who? Hardcover, 336pp. $29.99

From the serious to the frivolous: Abernethy, Jean. Fergus and the Man Named Jim. What’s this? Fergus is actually cooperating with his rider in show jumping and winning? Yes, but he’s starting to feel the physical strain of his career, being trailered from show to show and exerting himself to the utmost. While slanted toward young readers, even “baby boomers” like me can get a chuckle from Fergus’s antics in this soon-to-be-released (December 16) new Fergus book that gently introduces youngsters to the idea that a live horse’s comfort and wellbeing should be considered and take priority over human desire to compete. Hardcover, 40pp. $18.95

And then to the useful: Kramer, Joyce. Stable Core Training. Much of this consists of exercises off the horse that can be done anywhere. The author focuses on establishing rider alignment, centering, grounding, and positive tension to improve rider performance. Even mental im-

agery comes into play. Kramer is a certified personal trainer with many years of practice behind her. Some of the exercises may seem a little silly or overly simple, but they have a purpose, if only to make you more aware of your body. I wish I had had someone like her to work with me back when I was still reasonably limber! Still, I’m sure if I did even half of what she suggests, I would not only feel better but might even get back on a horse. Illustrated with clear photographs and occasional drawings. Softcover, 278pp. $34.95

Marion was poking around recently at an estate sale or flea market or some such venue that might produce useful items for the store and among other items came back with two cookbooks. Needless to say, these are single items, so first come, first served!

Clever as a Fox/Secrets of Hunt Country Cooking. This compilation of recipes was published for the Keswick Hunt Club’s centennial celebration. Pen and ink sketches illustrate the beginning of each section, which begins with “appetizers and hunt flasks” and “hill toppings,” meanders through early full course items, pauses at “hunt breakfast,” picks up speed with main course items and, after desserts, touches on “accompaniments” and ends with advice on “cooking for a crowd.” Some recipes are tonguein-cheek, such as “elephant stew,” which calls for “1 elephant (med. size) and 2 rabbits (opt.)…This will serve 3,800 people. If more are expected, 2 rabbits may be added, but do this only if necessary, as most people do not like to find hare in their stew.” (Sorry, I just had to include this one for chuckles!) Hardcover, notebook-ring style, 330pp. plus index. #6561. $10.00

Food to Die For/A Book of Funeral Food, Tips and Tales. Compiled by Jessica Bemis Ward for the Old City Cemetery, Lynchburg, Virginia, and sponsored by the Southern Memorial Association. B&w photos of—naturally—the cemetery, which was founded in 1806, are scattered among the pages. Along with the selection of recipes comes an assortment of tips and suggestions on how you can help the bereaved (offer to house-sit during times the house will be empty during the funeral or viewing to deter burglars, or to child-sit small children). Also recommended and very good advice is to prepare for your own demise by keeping good records and writing your own obit. Cardboard cover, spiral bound, 172pp. #6562. $10.00

New Market-Middletown Valley Hunt Opening Meet November 2, 2025, Windward Farm

Bonnie Kepner, attending her 28th Opening Hunt as Honorary Secretary of Maryland’s New Market-Middletown Valley Hunt, November 2, 2025, was honored with a Lifetime membership. She then led third field for the day’s sport. Austin Kaseman photo

Bringing hounds to the November 2, 2025 meet through the gates of Maryland’s historic Windward Farm, New Market-Middletown Valley Huntsman Emily Lanigan was aided by (l-r) Honorary Whipper-in Bethann Dixon, Professional Whipper-In Strider Christian, and Honorary Whipper-In Richard Rhinehart. Austin Kaseman photo

TEAM CHASE

Orange County Hounds Team Chase 2025

By Helen Brettell Joanne Maisano Photos

We were blessed with a picture perfect warm and sunny fall day for the annual Orange County Hounds Team Chase held on Sunday October 26th at Mr. and Mrs. Mark Ohrstrom’s Old Whitewood Farm. Entries were slow to materialize but that seems to be the norm nowadays with weather-watching and so many conflicting engagements influencing their decisions. On the day, there were competitors and spectators aplenty and smiling faces all round, especially on the juniors who acquitted themselves so well and were a credit to their parents and trainers.

The Hilltopper group kicked things off, this year split into juniors and open, both for turn out and over the fences. The standard was high in both groups with the open group topped by Katie Macswain and Beth Dombrowsky presenting an unbeatable picture on two matched near-black horses. Daffodil Hill sent eight juniors beautifully turned out, which presented judges Anne Macintosh, Brian and Laura Jarvis, and Catherine Stimpson, with a difficult decision. In the end, Elly Budd and Charlotte Combs prevailed to win the junior best turned out division.

The Hilltoppers turned their attention to the course of fences and were judged on pace, spacing, rhythm, and style over the fences. The open division was won by Sandra Ranke and Linda Vegher with Caitlin Lighthouse and Kara Molenaar runners up. The latter is returning to her Virginia roots, having relocated from CA together with her husband and two children. Special mention must go to a mixed team of four, including mother and son Kristin and Finn Holloway. Towards the end of the course, Finn had an unscheduled dismount when he was jumped out of the tack. But, not to be defeated, he was up and back on his pony, seemingly unfazed. The juniors were well drilled in the art of spacing and pace with Elly and Charlotte again beating the boys, Zack Malevich and Conner Spreadborough.

The first flight began, as always, with the turnout and was won by the Stonehall Three, who are always hard to beat. Miley Holtzman, Andrew Fox, and Lauren Nicholson represented Stonehall this weekend, and these three horses are often seen out in the field with OCH.

The course was similar to last year with the optimum time pairs being won by Charlie McCann and Erica Torgeson from Snickersville Hounds. The team optimum time was a much more hard-fought affair with all four prize winners being within 30 seconds of the time and showing a true hunting pace. Joel and Nicolette Merle-Smith and Giacomo Wilson from Keswick Hunt Club took the win from the Stonehall Rebels. The team showing the best form, spacing and consistent pace were Grace Ransom, Alicia Turner, and Bailey Wilson.

And so to the finals, with the judges selecting some individuals and juniors to come back and ride a handy test for the judging of the Champion Hunter and the junior equivalent. It was a strong renewal and the first and second to go finished in that order, with Lauren Nicholson being awarded the Alfred Hunt Perpetual Challenge Trophy on Landmark’s Monte Carlo, owned by Mrs. Mars. This horse had an illustrious career eventing but for the last three years has been regularly out with OCH and often ridden by the staff at Stonehall. Runner-up was the delightful 5 year old Connemara Garvagh (more commonly known as Percy), owned and ridden by Julie Coles. He didn’t put a foot wrong all day and was also the recipient of the Cyndy Hair Trophy presented to the horse and rider who “best exemplify the ideal qualities of suitability in the hunt field.”

The recipient of the junior equivalent this year was Sally Sullivan from Loudon Fairfax Hunt/Blue Ridge Hunt on Dyson, who impressed throughout. She received the Jacqueline Ohrstrom Perpetual Challenge Trophy.

Such a day is not possible without the input of the many volunteers who give up their Sunday. A team of OCH ladies, ably led by Robin Parker, produced a delicious food table, Liz Billing was secretary for the day, and Geraldine Peace ensured that prizes were distributed throughout. Tri-County and Journeymen Saddlers generously gave prizes for champion and reserve and of course there were Mars chocolates for winners and helpers.

Grateful thanks are due to Mark and Karin Ohrstrom who have held the team chase at their farm for many, many years and are the most generous of hosts!

Representing Daffodil Hill, (l-r) Charlotte Combs on Mickey and Elly Budd on Leo prevailed to win the Junior Best Turned Out division.

Representing Snickersville Hounds, Erica Torgeson (and Charlie McCann) took first place in Optimum Time Pairs

(l-r) Nicolette Merle-Smith, Giacomo Wilson, and Joel Merle-Smith of Keswick Hunt Club prevailed in both Optimum and Fast Time in the team category.

Riding Mrs. Jacqueline Mars’ Landmark’s Monte Carlo, Lauren Nicholson was awarded the Alfred Hunt Perpetual Challenge Trophy.

On The Upswing: Virginia and National Steeplechase Circuit Return Full-Force for a Record Autumn Season

Commonwealth Race Fans Witness The Crowning of At Least Two Champions with Multiple Winners

Keys Discount and Cool Jet

By Betsy Burke Donley • Douglas Lees Photos

The National Steeplechase Association fall circuit made a bold comeback this year, with the return of the Fair Hill Races in Maryland after a six-year break and the Charleston Cup in coastal South Carolina after the meet was canceled last year due to drought conditions.

The International Gold Cup Races were welcomed back to the Great Meadow racecourse near The Plains, Virginia, after a year away due to poor turf growth following last summer’s drought, and race directors created a unique, dual-meet cap to the season by coupling the November 22 Aiken Fall Steeplechase and the November 23 Colonial Cup meet, an hour apart in central South Carolina.

The NSA year-end awards will be handed out at a gala event held at the National Steeplechase Museum on the Springdale Racecourse backstretch in Camden after Sunday’s races.

Four NSA meets were held in Virginia, with record purses—$1.135 million— attracting standout fields and overflow crowds to close out the year.

October 5th, 47th Annual Foxfield Fall Races

Barracks Road Racecourse, Charlottesville, Virginia

A record $235,000 in purses and a record eight-race program highlighted a sparkling fall day kicking off the Virginia fall ’chase circuit. The $75,000 grade 3 Tejada Memorial handicap hurdle headlined the card, with Riverdee’s Cool Jet storming to his second graded stakes victory of the year. The Irish-bred carried 152 pounds and veteran rider Bernie Dalton, 10 less than stablemate and reigning champion hurdler Snap Decision.

Cool Jet, trained in Maryland by Hall of Famer Jack Fisher, eased to the lead swinging off the backstretch the final time in the 2 1/8-mile headliner, drawing off by almost 5 lengths at the wire. Snap Decision finished fifth.

Dalton also connected with ratings hurdle winner King of the Kids for owner Jim Steele and trainer Cyril Murphy, repeating his victory from the Foxfield spring meet.

The Foxfield Races facility was purchased— and protected—last year by the non-profit Cassiopeia Foundation. Preservation of the historic course in perpetuity honors the intent of race founder Mariann de Tejeda, explained trustee Zach Miller. Miller said Cassiopeia is committed to conservation of open land.

“It is our honor to play this role in the fulfillment of the dreams of Mariann de Tejeda and create a lasting legacy that celebrates the heritage and tradition of Foxfield,” Miller said in a release.

The Cassiopeia Foundation was established in 1944 by Alton Jones— Miller’s great-grandfather. Jones was a Thoroughbred breeder, owner, oil industrialist, and philanthropist. His foundation supports initiatives related to environmental conservation, land preservation, and social justice.

Foxfield Racing LLC revitalized the course and operates the spring and fall meets.

Foxfield Fall Races, Filly & Mare Maiden Hurdle (l-r) Articuno (Conor Tierney, up); Carnane (Dan Nevin, up); Gossiper (#4, Freddie Procter, up) – 1st

Foxfield Fall Races, Ratings Handicap Hurdle (l-r) Carmelised (Jamie Bargary, up) – 3rd; Sultan Pierje (Evan Dwan, up); King of the Kids (#4, Bernie Dalton, up) – 1st; Two Past Eight (Virginia Korrell, up); Sweet Will (Freddie Procter, up) – 4th

Foxfield Fall Races, Mariann De Tejeda Memorial (l-r): Cool Jet (Bernie Dalton, up) – 1st; Foxy Walk (Jamie Bargary, up) – 2nd

Foxfield Fall Races, Virginia Equine Alliance Maiden Hurdle

Attrayant (Harrison Beswick, up) – 1st

October 25th, 42nd Annual International Gold Cup Great Meadow, The Plains, Virginia Keys Discount produced a third breath-taking performance in the eponymous $50,000 International Gold Cup timber stakes to cap his perfect season. Leading rider Graham Watters had the mount on the 6-year-old, trained by owner Dolly Fisher’s son, Jack, to notch his fifth consecutive stakes victory of 2025.

Keys Discount was 6-5 favorite at Virginia’s only autumn pari-mutuel meet, heavy favorite to complete his perfect run. Content behind the early lead of Keystone Thoroughbred’s Shootist (Luke Carberry), Keys Discount eased to the lead at the 3-mile mark in the 3½-mile classic, drawing off to win by 10. Uco Valley (Freddie Procter) finished second, with Bruton Street’s Track and Trace (Dan Nevin) third.

October 11th, 71st Annual Virginia Fall Races

Glenwood Park, Middleburg, Virginia

An emerging timber king was crowned at Glenwood, when Dolly Fisher’s Keys Discount ran his 2025 record to four for four—all stakes—with a front-running powerhouse performance in the headliner. Keys Discount, five-time champion rider Graham Watters up, gave a jumping clinic in the 3¼-mile $50,000 National Sporting Library and Museum Cup, a 10-length winner from Marcel Magic (Freddie Procter up.) The win put the Maryland-bred statistically unbeatable for the NSA timber title.

Continuing their breakout year, the Riverdee Stable syndicate captured the $50,000 Will O’Keefe Memorial 3-year-old hurdle stake at Virginia Fall, their Ethics following up his debut score from the September 27 Shawan Downs Races in Maryland. The Claiborne Farm-bred son of Hard Spun went 0for-six on the flat but has blossomed since transitioning to hurdles.

Fisher and Watters also connected with Riverdee’s Potus to take the maiden timber, with Watters teaming with trainer Mark Beecher’s I Can Only Imagine to win the cross-country steeplethon.

Virginia Fall Races, Theodora A. Randolph Virginia Equine Alliance Maiden Hurdle (l-r) Ordinary Pleasure (Stephen Mulqueen, up); Gettin’downonit (Graham Watters, up) – 3rd; Risk Taking (Bernie Dalton, up) – 1st; Verbal (Jamie Bargary, up) – 2nd

Virginia Fall Races, National Sporting Library and Museum Cup Timber Stakes Keys Discount (Graham Watters, up) – 1st

Virginia Fall Races

William Francis O’Keefe Memorial Sport of Kings

Three Year Old Hurdle Stakes Ethics (Freddie Procter, up) – 1st

Virginia Fall Races

James P. McCormick Memorial Maiden Timber (l-r) Potus (Graham Watters, up) – 1st; Racavan (Evan Dwan, up).

Virginia Fall Races, The Kinross Steeplethon I Can Only Imagine (Graham Watters, up) – 1st

Virginia Fall Races, Daniel C. Sands Cup (Division 2), Optional Maiden Starter/Maiden Claiming Hurdle Gratia Prince (Harrison Beswick, up) – 1st

(l-r) Keys Discount (Graham Watters, up) – 1st; followed by Queens Empire (Teddy Davies, up).

International Gold Cup, Virginia Equine Alliance

Maiden Hurdle

(l-r) Alpamayo (Harrison Beswick, up) – 1st.; Sea The Ocean (Stephen Mulqueen, up).

The win wasn’t without drama, as the entire seven-horse field took the wrong course between the fourth and fifth jumps, but after instant correction by all seven riders, their return to the correct route at the place they went wrong, and lengthy review by the stewards, the result stood, and the year’s timber darling was crowned.

The win assured Keys Discount the timber title, a championship based on earnings. Keys Discount earned $153,000, more than any other NSA runner except for Iroquois winner Abaan.

Del Rio Racing’s Little Trilby turned a relentless late move into victory in the grade 2 Allison hurdle stakes. Conor Tierney was up for trainer Ricky Hendriks on the 5-year-old English-bred. Little Trilby jumped the last in fifth place, but he powered up the outside of the stretch to collar pacesetter Foxy Walk (Luke Carberry) at the wire. The margin was a half-length for the 6-1 winner. Favorite Jimmy P (Freddie Procter) finished fifth.

Gill Johnston’s Anzio, ridden by Freddie Procter for trainer Sandra Webb, turned the tables on Virginia Fall steeplethon winner I Can Only Imagine (Graham Watters), half-length winner of the $20,000 cross-country ’chase.

International Gold Cup, Zeke Ferguson Memorial Ratings Handicap Hurdle (l-r) Garrison Forest (Luke Carberry, up) – 4th; Artistic Choice (Jamie Bargary, up); L’Avvocato (Freddie Procter, up) – 3rd; Take Your Seats (Evan Dwan, up) – 1st

November 1st, 90th Annual Montpelier Races

Montpelier Estate, Montpelier Station, Virginia

One of the NSA’s most unique courses—natural hedges set on a vast rolling turf oval in the shadow of Founding Father James Madison’s former plantation house—the 90th Montpelier Hunt Races attracted a near-record crowd for seven races worth a record $260,000.

Headliner was the Grade 3 $75,000 Noel Laing stakes at 2½ miles over Montpelier’s signature natural brush fences. Seven went to post with Riverdee’s Cool Jet (Bernie Dalton) prevailing at the wire.

The Irish-bred became the circuit’s only three-time graded hurdle stakes winner, building cred as the likely Eclipse Award winner as champion ’chaser. The 9-year-old led flag-to-wire, winning for Hall of Fame trainer Jack Fisher. Fisher is also poised to capture his own year-end title, his 15th Cool Jet won three graded stakes in 2025, all in Virginia—the grade 1 Commonwealth Cup at Great Meadow in May and the grade 3 Tejada Memorial at Foxfield in October were the others.

Seven different horses won the seven Grade 1s this year, so Cool Jet’s three graded victories may give him the nod for the Eclipse.

David Bourke saddled Rebecca Shepherd’s Our Finest Hour (Conor Tierney) to win the co-featured Scott memorial, a $75,000 distaff hurdle stakes. The Frenchbred was up by almost 5 lengths at the wire, winning from Madaket’s Arrow (Bernie Dalton) and Love Saga (Sean McDermott.)

Also earning a headline from the closing meet on Virginia’s NSA circuit, NSA president Al Griffin noted the retirement of longtime Virginia race announcer Mike Hughes. “As we were walking to our car after the races at Montpelier, we listened to Mike bid farewell to the crowd and remind them that Virginia steeplechasing will be back in the spring,” Griffin said. “Thank you, Mike, for all of those years you gave us the constant of your announcing.”

Complete results are online at nationalsteeplechase.com.

International Gold Cup, Steeplethon

(l-r) Icandothat (Sean McDermott, up); Minella Plus (Bernie Dalton, up); Anzio (Freddie Procter, up) – 1st; I Can Only Imagine (Graham Watters, up) – 2nd

International Gold Cup, William H. Allison (Grade 2) Sport of Kings Hurdle Stakes (l-r) RampoldiPlan

(Jamie Bargary, up) –3rd; Little Trilby (Conor Tierney, up) – 1st; Welshman (Graham Watters, up) – 4th

Montpelier Hunt Races, The Battleship Maiden Claiming Hurdle Orders Anthem (Dan Nevin, up) – 1st

Montpelier Hunt Races, The Marion Dupont Scott Memorial Filly and Mare Hurdle Stakes (l-r) Our Finest Hour (Conor Tierney, up) – 1st; Bold Look (Harrison Beswick, up).

Montpelier Hunt Races, The Noel Laing Hurdle Handicap Stakes Cool Jet (Bernie Dalton, up) – 1st; Clifton Down (Dan Nevin, up).

OPENING MEETS

Live Oak Hounds Opening Meet

Monticello, Florida, October 25, 2025

Allison Howell Photos

A tradition at Belle Meade Hunt in Thomson, Georgia, juniors line up and wait for the masters and staff to jump in over the “Blessing Coop.” They then hold the horses while staff walk the hounds up for the blessing. When that’s over, masters, staff, and juniors all mount up and the hunt begins.

Belle Meade’s Phideaux could not resist the salty temptation of sweat on the leg of Alayna Myers’ horse.

Goshen Hounds Opening Meet

Huntsman and Master Robert Taylor led his pack from Tusculum Farm for Goshen Hounds’ Opening Meet on November 2, 2025. Dated circa 1747, this historic property is located in Maryland’s Montgomery County. Karen Kandra photo

Thornton Hill Hounds Opening Meet

Thornton Hill Hounds Huntsman and MFH Elizabeth Opitz leads the way for her pack during Opening Meet from High Thicket, Sperryville, Virginia, November 2, 2025. Denny Bomar photo

Belle Meade Hunt Opening Meet, Thomson, Georgia, November 1, 2025

Allison Howell Photos

Founders and Joint-Masters of Live Oak Hunt, Daphne and Marty Wood pause for a moment before the start of the Blessing of the Hounds at Opening Meet, October 25, 2025, from their home, Live Oak Plantation, Monticello, Florida.

Second Flight Field Master Joe Lemons, on Emma, led his followers through shafts of misty sunlight for Live Oak Hounds’ Opening Meet, October 25, 2025, Monticello, Florida.

Senior Master and Huntsman Epp Wilson, aided by Alayna Myers, led the Belle Meade Hunt’s hounds in at the end of a successful Opening Meet, November 1, 2025.

Orange County Hounds Huntsman Reg Spreadborough, with Honorary Whipper-In James Piper, moved hounds along to Opening Meet at Meredyth Farm, The Plains, Virginia against a classic fall backdrop.

Orange County Hounds Opening Meet

Meredyth Farm, The Plains, Virginia, November 1, 2025

Joanne Maisano Photos

Orange County Joyride cleared a stiff stone wall as the Opening Meet action moved along.

Senior Master John Coles (in scarlet) led a typically large field of followers across the verdant fields of Mrs. Jacqueline Mars’ Meredyth Farm, which is protected by conservation easements.

REMEMBRANCE

Norman Michael Fine

September 23, 1934 - August 16, 2025

“The continued success of foxhunting in America is largely due to his work. His articles, his stories. The way he educated people. The way he encouraged people. Norman Fine was one of the greatest ambassadors foxhunting ever had.” Epp Wilson, MFH, Belle Meade Hunt

Most readers of this publication are familiar with Norman’s work as creator and, for fifteen years, editor of the MFHA’s Covertside magazine. He then moved on to launch the e-magazine Foxhunting Life with Horse and Hound. Along the way, he published several books, including his Foxhunting Adventures, a collection of 32 foxhunting stories.

He did, though, achieve many other impressive accomplishments before he discovered the pleasures of the foxhunting life.

A 1956 graduate of Dartmouth’s Thayer School of Engineering, Norman first went to work for Raytheon, where he helped design an improved air traffic control system that featured a state-of-the-art largescreen radar display. This led him and a colleague to start their own company to offer high-resolution screens and infrared scopes for use in recon missions by the Navy and Air Force. The company played a key role in several historic developments. This included the Apollo-11 Moon Landing where the technology helped the world see the action taking place on the Moon through their own TV screens.

Multiple break-through achievements followed, ranging from medical technology to microfilm to cinematograpy, just to cite a few. That latter category is worth noting. Norm’s company designed and built precision displays for MGM’s first color-correction equipment. This allowed cameras to film scenes without having to wait for the weather they wanted. The first film to use the new technology was Dr. Zhivago. Of the film’s five 1966 Oscars, one was for Best Cinematography.

OPENING MEETS

Norman Fine’s life took a significant turn when, in 1988, he and his wife Joan chose to move from their home in Concord, Massachusetts, and settle in rural Clarke County, Virginia, home to the historic Blue Ridge Hunt. Here Norm eagerly embraced two new passions: foxhunting and writing about foxhunting. He would go on to ride with—and then write about—numerous hunts across the US and Canada, as well as others in England and Ireland.

At the memorial service held on November 1 in the Blue Ridge territory, Master Anne McIntosh delivered the eulogy composed by Norm’s longtime friend, Epp Wilson. (Epp could not be there in person as the date conflicted with Belle Meade Hunt’s Opening Meet.) Herewith are excerpts from the eulogy that illustrate the significant role Norm played in the foxhunting world.

• “He could describe foxhunting better than anyone else. The fun. The fraternity with fellow foxhunters around the country and around the world.”

• “When Norman Fine wrote about your hunt, you must be doing things right.”

• “Norm could communicate. He could articulate complex concepts so that [anyone] could understand them.”

• On the creation of Covertside: “He wanted to create and edit a newsletter for foxhunters. For the good of the sport then, now, and in the future, someone needed to educate those who were interested. The MFHA was the logical organization to take it on. And Norm was the logical person to do it.”

• “Norman inspired foxhunters young and old, newbies and experienced, with new and/or different ideas. His articles opened up a world of information for so many of us. He kept foxhunting fun and interesting.”

• “Norman loved judging Performance Trials. He lit up when he said, ‘I have been wanting to ride right up with the hounds all my hunting life. Now I can do it and the huntsman doesn’t yell at me!’”

As besets many of us, there came a time for Norm to retire from the hunt field. But he wasn’t done yet. Harking back to his time as an innovator in the world of visual technology, he wrote the award-winning Blind Bombing: How Microwave Radar Brought the Allies to D-Day and Victory in World War II. His work won the Silver Medal for World History in the 2020 IPPY awards, a national competition sponsored by the association of independent and university presses.

As we reflect back on the life of this quiet, humble, yet highly influential man whose friends and admirers number in legions, perhaps the best benediction for Norm’s life is Epp Wilson’s summation: “He made our lives better.”

Warrenton Hunt Opening Meet

The Kennels at Elway, November 1, 2025

Jordan Koepke Photos

Norman Michael Fine September 23, 1934 - August 16, 2025

Douglas Lees Photo

(l-r) Janet Boots and Heidi Stirrup gave a nod to the time-honored standards of proper turnout for Warrenton Hunt’s Opening Meet, a tradition maintained since the hunt’s founding in 1887.

Virginia Gilligan, daughter of Warrenton Hunt member Ashlee, mounted on Harley, displayed perfect junior turnout. And with a nice decorative touch! Huntsman Matt van der Woude and hounds left shimmering reflections in the pond as they moved along its edge.

RACING

Horses and People to Watch

Virginia Equine Alliance

Colonial Downs Wraps Up Successful 2025 Thoroughbred Season in New Kent Colonial Downs wrapped up an historic and record-setting 2025 race season on September 13, completing a 44-day campaign that included a special three-day Virginia Derby meet in spring, followed by a 41-day summer meet that extended ten weeks. The New Kent track recorded highs in number of race days, guests in attendance, horses in competition, wagering handle, and purse money distributed.

A total of 397 races were held in which 3,146 horses participated for total purse money of $27.4 million. The betting handle of $101,032,299 included a one-day record of $10.46 million on the August 13 Festival of Racing program highlighted by the Grade 1 Arlington Million. 2024 Kentucky Derby winner Mystik Dan competed in the Million and became the first Derby winner to ever compete at the New Kent track. Looking ahead, Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin announced that the 2026 Virginia Derby will again serve as a Kentucky Derby qualifier on March 14 next year. In 2025, the Virginia Derby was moved to dirt, shifted to a mid-March date and served as a Kentucky Derby qualifier for the first time ever.

Woodslane Farm’s Wolfie’s Dynaghost Surpasses $1 Million in Career Earnings

second straight year the Futurity Grand Champion was out of Jumpin’ Nancy—the 2024 winner was Paynted By Nancy.

The Colonial Downs closing day card featured a $100,000 Virginia-Restricted Handicap named after prominent Virginia horseman Bert Allen. Rene and Lauren Wolcott’s (Woodslane Farm in The Plains) Wolfie’s Dynaghost got everything his way and never looked back in the Allen Handicap and with the win, saw his career bankroll surge over the $1 million mark. Three years after winning the same state-certified race at Colonial, the 7-yearold Ghostzapper gelding was never challenged on the front end and cruised home to a 3¾ length victory. From 30 lifetime starts, the Jonathan Thomas trainee has 12 wins and earnings of $1,054,647.

Riley Mott’s World Beater Wins $500,000 Old Dominion Derby

Pin Oak Stud’s World Beater lived up to his lofty name September 6 at Colonial Downs, storming down the center of the Secretariat Turf Course to capture the Grade 3, $500,000 Old Dominion Derby. The chestnut colt trained by Riley Mott and ridden by Jamie Torres rated kindly in midpack through the early stages of the 1 -mile turf test before uncorking a powerful stretch rally. World Beater earned his second graded stakes win following the Grade 1 Saratoga Derby triumph August 2. The victory gave the Mott family four Derby wins overall in 22 editions. Bill Mott, Riley’s father, trained prior winners Orchard Park, Silver Tree, and Go Between.

New Virginia Equine Alliance 175-Stall Barn Debuts at Woodstock, VA Harness Track

Virginia’s horse racing industry took another big step forward September 5 with a ceremonial ribbon cutting of a new 175-stall horse barn at Shenandoah Downs’ harness track in Woodstock, VA. The 32,500 square foot barn represents a $2 million-plus investment in harness racing by the Virginia Equine Alliance. The dual-purpose barn can house livestock during the Shenandoah County Fair and at other off-season shows, in addition to housing horses during the track’s spring and fall race meets.

Harness Driver/Trainer Gerry Longo Continues to Thrive in Woodstock at Age 80

It’s hard not to root for a guy that skipped his high school graduation in order to go to the racetrack. Meet 80-year-old harness owner, trainer, and driver Gerry Longo, who competed at Shenandoah Downs in Woodstock this fall and has collected ten wins since turning 80 back on April 22nd.

He has 3,124 driving wins and over 20,200 starts. Not bad for a guy who was born in Rochester, New York, grew up in the carnival business in California, and, after high school, packed his bags to chase a career in harness racing.

Quest Realty’s Amrit takes Grand Champion Honors at 2025 Virginia Breeder’s Fund Yearling Futurity

Congratulations to Quest Realty’s Amrit who took top honors in the $40,000 Virginia Breeder’s Fund 2025 Yearling Futurity held August 24 at the Warrenton Horse Show Grounds. Winner of the Virginia-Bred/Sired colt & gelding class, Amrit advanced to the final round—as did the top two finishers from four different classes that morning—and was named Grand Champion by judge Cary Frommer. The champ is by Oscar Performance out of Jumpin’ Nancy by Jump Start. Interestingly, this marked the

“My dad died when I was nine so my uncles told my mom to come work at a carnival they operated in California. When I wasn’t in school, I’d be blowing up balloons and running ‘dime on a dish’,” recalled Longo. “My mom would let me go to the races. All the Fairs in California had a combination of harness, Quarter Horse, and Thoroughbred racing and when I saw drivers on harness horses for the first time, I was hooked.”

Up until Cal Expo (in Sacramento) closed recently, Longo’s annual circuit included stints at tracks in California, Minnesota, Virginia, and Illinois—an ambitious schedule for any horseman let alone a seventy-something.

“I wouldn’t give this life up for anything,” he said. “I own. I train. I drive. I’ve never had any other job except working at the carnival. I don’t have a home. I’m always mobile. Home is wherever I’m racing at the time. I’ll sleep in dorm rooms at the track I’m at. I’ve got to take care of horses seven days a week. I told my daughter wherever I die, just bury my ashes at the track I’m at because they’re going to have to scrape me off the track.”

“I feel like I’m going to live to be a hundred years old,” he added. “I still get a rush out of driving. I still get a rush out of being in the winner’s circle. I still think I’m competitive. It’s not the driving that wins a race. It’s the horse and the people behind the scenes. The grooms and trainers get them out every day and work hard. We don’t have any lazy people in the horse business. I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

Riley Mott’s World Beater won the $500,000 Old Dominion Derby in New Kent. Coady Media

80-year-old harness driver Gerry Longo is still going strong and winning races in Virginia. VEA photo

Amrit took Grand Champion honors in the Virginia Yearling Futurity at the Warrenton Horse Show. Hannah Jones photo

Wolfie’s Dynaghost prevailed in the $100,000 Bert Allen Handicap at Colonial Downs. Coady Media

OPENING MEETS

Mark Jump Photos

cry of Shakerag Hounds in pursuit caught this fellow’s attention during the Opening Meet hunt in

Members of Camargo Hunt, whose territory includes fixtures in Ohio and Kentucky, met in front of the Little Red Schoolhouse to celebrate the hunt’s Centennial Opening Meet on November 1, 2025. Mark Jump photo (For more information on the history of Camargo Hunt and its first one hundred years, see our Winter/Spring 2025 issue, “Camargo Hunt at 100: Adapting to Change is the Key to Survival.”)

Professional Huntsman Chris Burrowswood has now been with New York’s Windy Hollow Hunt for 12 seasons. His career spans 40 seasons, serving in the UK and US as staff and MFH. Here he’s on his way to the next draw after a sharp two mile run on the first fox of the day following the Blessing of the Hounds at MFH Dr. Ed Wiley’s Belfour Farm. Assisting him is Honorary First Whipper-In Dale Schieffelin, now in her tenth season in that role. Chris is riding Personal Brew, who placed third in the 2016 Virginia Gold Cup Timber Stakes wearing Irvin S. Naylor’s colors. At 19, Chris reports he’s still going strong.

Following the annual Opening Meet parade through town on October 4, 2025, Huntsman Stephanie Lee paused with the hounds of New York’s Old Chatham Hunt in front of the historic Old Chatham Country Store & Café. The hunt will observe its Centennial year in 2026. The store traces its history back 1786.

The

Hull, Georgia, October 25, 2025.

Huntsman Jacob Cotton paused with members of Shakerag Hounds, Hull, Georgia, before moving off for Opening Meet on October 25, 2025.

Vermont’s aptly named Green Mountains provided a striking view for the members of Green Mountain Hounds, located in the northwestern part of the state, as they moved along on their Opening Meet, October 12, 2025.