In & Around Horse Country Summer 2023

AWARDS

Virginia Thoroughbred Association Annual Awards Ceremony

Middleburg Community Center, March 3, 2023 Douglas

Mr. and Mrs. Tom Collins with VSA medals for most travel during the year and for Bally Bristol Farm’s Andi’amu, leading Steeplechase Horse of the year.

the Year, Welshman, with trainer Jack Fisher on the right.

Don Yovanovich, president of the VTA, presenting leading Virginia Based Owner to Sean Clancy and Miles Clancy for Riverdee Stables.

Don Yovanovich presenting to Gerard Galligan for leading rider with MC Megan Connelly on the right.

Virginia Steeplechase Association Hall of Fame recipient James Lee Lawrence, his family accepting (left to right): Robert Paul Lawrence, Maureen Ashby Lawrence, James Lee “Chuck” Lawrence.

Lees Photos

Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event April 27-30, 2023

SPORTING LIFE HIGHLIGHTS

Staff Changes

Andrew Marren is moving from Montreal Hunt/Palm Beach Hounds to Toronto and North York Hunt where he will serve as Huntsman and Master.

Mark McManus, formerly Huntsman for Eglinton/Caledon Hounds, goes to Montreal/Palm Beach.

Brian Kiely, formerly Huntsman/Master at Potomac Hunt, is moving to Rose Tree – Blue Mountain Hunt where he and his wife Lindsey will serve as joint masters for the coming season.

Joshua Warren will serve as Huntsman for Loudoun Fairfax Hunt when the new season begins, filling the vacancy left by Neil Amatt’s decision to leave hunt service. Josh has most recently been serving as Huntsman/Kennel Huntsman for Monmouthshire Hunt in Wales. In addition to other hunt service in the UK, he has also held First Whipper-In positions with Middleburg Hunt and Orange County Hounds.

Museum of Hounds & Hunting Spring Event

Memorial Weekend will include several enticing activities at the Museum of Hounds & Hunting NA’s Morven Park location in Leesburg, VA.

The annual art exhibit and sale kicks off on Saturday, May 27. Paintings and sculptures by associated artists will be on display and for sale from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm that day and all day Sunday until 5:00 pm. This is the Museum’s major annual fundraising event so members and friends are encouraged to participate. And it’s a wonderful chance to add some new artwork to your own living space.

The Sewickley Hunt will be honored for its 100th Anniversary. There will be a reception table where you can visit with the MFHs and members and pick up a copy of their anniversary book featuring memories in photos, poetry, and prose celebrating the club’s one hundred years of history. And, for the first time, Sewickley will be showing their hounds in Sunday’s Virginia Hound Show.

Another event going on that weekend is the Virginia Hunter Championship finals running throughout the day on Saturday across the Morven Park grounds. It’s an opportunity to watch some of Virginia’s top hunt horses and riders in action.

And, of course, the annual Museum Members Reception will feature refreshments and hors d’oeuvres in the garden next to the Mansion on Saturday from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm. (If you’re not a Museum member, you can visit www.MHHNA.org for membership information or sign up in person at the reception. The Museum plays a critical role in preserving the art and artifacts of mounted hunting in North America and needs the support of everyone who values that purpose.)

COVER PHOTO:

Middleburg Photo

PHOTOGRAPHERS:

Lindsay Baldwin

Mitchell Bradley

Mary Susan Costa

Tisa Della-Volpe

Quenton Egan

Equestrian Influence equestrianinfluence.com

Middleburg Photo middleburgphoto.com

Austin Kaseman austinkaseman.com

Tiffany Dillon Keen dillonkeenphotography.com

Douglas Lees douglaslees@comcast.net

Joanne Maisano joannemaisano.com

Betsy Burke Parker betsyburkeparker@gmail.com

Rebecca Randall

VEA

Betsy Burke Parker Photos

Complete results and more photos are at kentuckythreedayevent.com

California rider Tamra Smith became the first American to win Land Rover Kentucky since 2008. She rode Mai Baum to flawless cross-country and show jumping rounds to win with 24.2 penalties.

Meghan O’Donaghue and Palm Crescent of the USA team brought the Land Rover Kentucky slogan to life – “The Best Weekend All Year” - at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington.

Canadian rider Karl Slezak won the 4* aboard Hot Bobo, posting double-clears on cross-country and show jumping.

Basset Trials

The focused concentration of Keri Smyth, MBH and Huntsman for Monkton Hall Bassets, paid off during the 2023 Spring Basset Trials, Aldie, VA, April 13-16. She collected three trophies at the end of the competition: 50% Performance/50% Conformation, Two Hour Stake, and Best Individual Hound (Tassel).

On the cover: Excitement in the paddock rises at the call of "Riders up!"

Ross Geraghty gets a leg up onto Gun for Success for the start of the Maiden Hurdle at the Virginia Gold Cup, May 6, 2023.

Middleburg Photo

Gomez Photography gomezphotography.com

Mark Jump

markjumpphotography.com

Karen Kandra

Regina Welsh

ILLUSTRATION

Claudia Coleman

is published 4 times a year.

Editorial and Advertising Address: 60 Alexandria Pike, Warrenton, VA 20186

For information and advertising rates, please call (540) 347-3141, fax (540) 347-7141

Space Deadline for Fall issue is August 1, 2023. Payment in full due with copy.

Publisher: Marion MaggioloManaging Editor: J. Harris Anderson

Advertising: Debbie Cutler (540) 347-3141, (800) 882-4868, Email: hcdebbiebtc@aol.com

Contributors: J. Harris Anderson, Lauren R. Giannini, Osmun, Betsy Burke Parker, Virginia Equine Alliance, Jenny Young

LAYOUT & DESIGN: Kate Houchin

Copyright © 2023 In & Around Horse Country®. All Rights Reserved. Volume XXXV, No. 2

POSTMASTER: CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED Regular subscription 5 issues $25.00, U.S.A. First Class subscription $35.00, Europe, Canada, etc. $45.00

Josh Warren (left) during his second term as First Whipper-in to Orange County Hounds Huntsman Reg Spreadborough, heading in from a day of sport at Smitten Farm, December 23, 2017. Douglas Lees photo

Karen Kandra photo

JUNIORS Junior North American Field Hunter Championship The Future of Our Sport and Land

The Mells Foxhounds welcomed the 2023 Junior North American Field Hunter Championship to their country in Tennessee for an epic weekend of sportsmanship, education, and camaraderie. The weekend also featured an unexpected challenge that proved to be a valuable learning experience for all involved. The joint masters, staff, and hunt members created a venue where juniors were stabled together with 24-hour security, hospitality was provided for families and juniors in the clubhouse, a safety/emergency response plan was implemented, and competition and hunting sites were within walking distance.

The JNAFHC competition, begun in 2003, continues to expand its scope with championships having been held in Virginia, Kentucky, Georgia and now Tennessee. Juniors at the 2023 Championship represented 26 hunts and 15 Pony Clubs from across the US and Canada, with juniors attending from new areas as far away as Massachusetts, Ontario, Mississippi, and Kansas, giving our young foxhunters the opportunity to form deeper connections with the foxhunting community.

$35,000 has been donated to conservation organizations and efforts since the program began. In 2021 the JNAFHC became incorporated with a board of directors and recognized with a 501 (c)(3) designation by the IRS. During 2021-2023, individuals and organizations responded with extremely generous donations, which allowed the JNAFHC to further develop components of program and safety, with the goal of junior scholarships planned in the future—for travel and participation in the championship, and projects/activities, which they create to further the sport of foxhunting and the conservation of land.

Juniors qualify for the championship by attending a qualifier at their home hunt or a nearby hunt, and this is where the conversation and connection with the sport begins. Through the tremendous efforts of the recognized hunts who host qualifiers, juniors learn the skills and are encouraged to participate. At the championship they are asked to complete a hack, a mock hunt, in which they are judged on riding skills and judgment, suitability with their mount, etiquette and manners, assisting with gates, respect for and being attentive to hounds, and neat and tidy turnout. The top ten finalists then compete in an individual test made of six to ten obstacles/questions, simulating situations you might find in the hunt field. This year’s test consisted of a drop rail, ditch crossing, creek crossing, gate opening and closing, a tally ho, hand gallop, hold hard, and dismount.

In 2016 additional contests of horn blowing and whip cracking were introduced, and one of the highlights of this year’s championship was the addition of hound judging. Charles Montgomery, MFH and Huntsman for Mells Foxhounds, created an educational and fun

experience for the juniors to develop an eye for assessing hounds with different intended purposes in what could be varying country. They had the honor of judging hounds with Dr. Jack Van Nagell, MFH, Iroquois Hunt; Ryan Johnsey, MFH and Huntsman of Tennessee Valley Hunt; and Stephen K. Heard, ex-MFH. Foxhunting is not, of course, immune to weather challenges and this year Mother Nature chose to add an extra test for the determination, stamina, and organizational skills of the juniors and their supporters. With everything set up and ready to welcome participants for the weekend activities, starting with a live hunt on Friday, rainy weather moved in on Thursday. It then escalated to terrific storms and extremely strong winds on Friday (which postponed the scheduled hunt to Sunday). One of the temporary stabling tents blew down and all the horses from both barns had to be evacuated until the storms died down after about five hours. It was an act of teamwork to get all the horses moved and then reassemble the barn. But never underestimate the power of youth, especially young foxhunters. They came together, worked as a team, and encouraged each other with words and acts of kindness. The challenge truly brought out the best out in them!

Thankfully Saturday morning came with warm temperatures and blue sunny skies just in time for competition day. The skill and preparation of all the juniors was impressive, and the pool of top contenders was deep. They exhibited poise, professionalism, great horsemanship, and sportsmanship.

Sunday brought another sunny day and Mells took juniors and guests on a live hunt across their beautiful country with a spirited chase and smiles all around!

For more information on qualifier dates, next year’s championship, and the overall JNAFHC program, visit jnafhc.com or the Junior North American Field Hunter Championship Facebook page.

This year’s Champions were:

Hilltopper 10 & Under:

Champion – London McCalley – Dude – Lowcountry Hunt/Salt March PC

Reserve – Charlotte Wilson – Cowgirl – Belle Meade Hunt

Hilltopper 11-18:

Champion – Dot Daus – Mr. Popper’s Penguin – Camargo Hunt/Miami Valley PC

Reserve – Claire Lacey – Bentley - Lowcountry Hunt

First Field 13 & Under:

Champion – Wells Pfister – Landy - Iroquois Hunt/Bluegrass PC

Reserve – Scarlett Knull – Kismet - Keswick Hunt/Deep Run PC

First Field 14-18:

Champion – Kathryn Sanford – Most Likely – Lowcountry Hunt

Reserve – Samantha Manning – Good Luck Molly – Snickersville Hounds

Hound Judging: Callie Hill - Fort Leavenworth Hunt

Whip Cracking: Taylor Smith – Norfolk Hunt

Horn Blowing Award: Sam Dozier – Belle Meade Hunt

Best Turned-Out: Callie Hill - Fort Leavenworth Hunt

Sportsmanship: Victoria Watson – Hamilton Hunt Club

Hilltoppers 11-18 waiting to cast. Equestrian Influence photo

Kate Sanford, Champion First Field 14-18, on Most Likely, Lowcountry Hunt. Equestrian Influence photo

Dot Daus, Champion Hilltoppers 11-18, on Gemma, Camargo Hunt, negotiates a gate. Gomez Photography photo

Youngest competitor, 6-year-old Cora Gans on Cherokee, Long Run Woodford Hounds. Gomez Photography photo

U.S. Pony Racing

Mentoring Young Jockeys From Start To Future

By Lauren R Giannini

Pint-size jockeys look adorable: colorful silks puffed out over protective vest, white britches, black boots, and approved safety helmet with matching silk cover. They appear businesslike and poised. From smallest leadliners to experienced mid-teens, they are schooled in every aspect, ready to rock and roll.

Pony racing has come a long way from the helter-skelter contests of old, thanks to Regina Welsh whose involvement dates back to the late 1990s. She was in her 20s, training steeplechasers, and full of enthusiasm about working with kids. When Mason Lampton and George Strawbridge founded the North American Point-to-Point Association in 2001, they made a brilliant call by naming Welsh executive director.

“Regina has been fabulous for years,” said Mason Lampton, MFH Midland Fox Hounds, former jump jockey who raced his pony Badass. “She has been creating fun for children that can be replicated all over. She trained a Maryland Hunt Cup winner [Bug River 2004, 2006]. She has been tops.”

Welsh took her assignment to the next level, finding new opportunities and venues for pony racing and Junior Field Master Chases until 2013 when NAPPA closed its doors. “I didn’t want to see all that had been built up end,” Welsh said. “So I started U.S. Pony Racing where my focus has been largely on getting kids involved in flat racing at jump meets. Getting them hooked on that naturally leads to them participating in Field Master Chases. Without a board, it was easier to get things accomplished and I was willing to stick my neck out to get more opportunities for the kids.”

Welsh partners with the Temple Gwathmey Steeplechase Foundation (TGSF) and runs the Young Rider domestic steeplechase trip (18 so far) and the Young Rider International Steeplechase trip to Ireland (now up to six). The trips to Ireland were inspired by Sam Slater and Lornie Forbes, who also sponsor the trips.

“Taking young riders to Ireland turned out to be a really useful training tool that has given them a look inside of what it takes to be part of the horse industry in Ireland where jump racing is more robust,” Welsh said.

Lucky kids, but it’s hard work even with sweet motivation like trips here and abroad. Welsh and USPR, in conjunction with TGSF, set a high standard. USPR kids are in the standings, in the overnights. and often well up in results. Four former USPR riders were set to ride in the 2023 Maryland Hunt Cup. Firsttimers Virginia Korrell and Elizabeth Scully, and Colin Smith, who finished third in 2022, along with Teddy Davies made the overnight, with Davies being sidelined from a broken collarbone sustained the week prior at the Grand National. Of the three who started, Scully finished second on Royal Ruse.

Smith thinks the USPR program was great. It gave him and other kids opportunities to race ponies at race meets and also places like the Devon, Central Park, and Washington International Horse Shows which host USPR’s Shetland pony steeplechases, unique in North America. He also credits his mother, Mimi Schmitz, for most of his riding skills via foxhunting and all of her ponies that he got to race.

“I think the coolest memory I have from USPR was having the opportunity to go to Toronto Canada to ride Shetland pony steeplechase races at the Royal Horse Show,” said Smith, who works a regular day job, gallops in the afternoon, and races on weekends. “We had two days of racing, two races each day. And the second day, I won both races on Olney Smarty Pants and Cricket.”

Welsh enjoys working with young riders and watching them develop after they age out at 16. “I try my best to reach out to each one of them and make sure they know I’m rooting for them,” she said. “We have 50 to 60 kids regularly rid-

ing in pony and junior horse races. After nearly 20 years of organizing and promoting pony and junior racing, I have my daughter and she really enjoys the leadline trot races. I see in her what I witnessed for years before becoming a mom: Imogen can’t wait to go to the races and see all her buddies. These young jockeys form bonds that are tight and they root for each other. There are some fierce rivalries, but it’s all in good sport.”

USPR’s effectiveness becomes obvious when pony riders continue racing after ageing out. Teddy Davies, 19, is the progeny of two jump jockeys: Blythe (neé Miller) and Joe Davies, trainer. Teddy earned a bunch of titles from early pony racing days onward. In 2022, at 18, he became one of the youngest riders to win the Maryland Hunt Cup and set a new course record with Vintage Vinnie who had won in ’21 with Dan Nevin.

“My best memory was when all my classmates came to the Hunt Cup, Vinnie was amazing,” Teddy recalled. “I didn’t do much, just went along for the ride. Sad I miss this year, but still excited for Vinnie and Dan to take a shot at history. I’ll be cheering for them.”

Scully has a different tale: her passion for riding took her parents by surprise. When her first pony proved too fast for the hunter ring, someone suggested foxhunting and pony racing.

“I had no idea either one existed at the time,” recalled Scully, now 19, attending college as well as galloping and racing. “But once I started in my first race in 2009, I didn’t want to go back to showing. I have been working in the sport for almost 10 years and every aspect is a lot of work. I think pony racing played into my success because it gives you exposure. You have to start somewhere. It’s a really big jump from pony racing to regular racing. You make mistakes, but you’ll learn from them.”

Scully, who went on two Welsh-led jump racing trips, said: “The domestic trip gave me a lot of connections in the industry. I rode out at Jack Fisher’s farm in the morning and later got a job there. Seeing Saratoga behind the scenes was also a highlight. The international trip was brilliant, a full exposure to racing in Ireland, which is so different and much bigger than the US. You learn so much by watching what’s going on around you.”

“These young jockeys form bonds that are tight and they root for each other,” says Regina Welsh. “There are some fierce rivalries, but it’s all in good sport.” Joanne Maisano photo

Exciting stretch duel in Rokeby Bowl open timber at Piedmont Foxhounds Point-to-Point: To Be Or Not To Be and Teddy Davies (red cap) first by a head over Shootist and Colin Smith. Douglas Lees photo

USPR emphasizes safety and appropriate ponies. Every rider and their designated mount must be evaluated and approved together before they go to the start of a race. USPR holds clinics, and kids don’t have to own their own pony to participate. Welsh has several ponies in her barn. Ditto Betty McCue of EHM Stables.

Twelve years ago, McCue and students were horse show regulars.  Their lives changed one day when McCue took her show students to Timonium racetrack to watch a friend, Elizabeth Scully, in Welsh’s pony races.

“Elizabeth is now one of the best riders in the steeplechase colony,” McCue said. “Back then, my students said, ‘Can we please do this, please, please?’ My answer was simple: ‘The ponies will never be the same, don’t expect them to canter softly around the ring for a hunter course ever again.’ To my surprise, a couple ponies could do both, even in one weekend. So we hooked up with Regina and away we went.”

McCue admits that many of her students don’t like being confined to the ring.  “They want to get going fast, but going fast is the easy part,” she explained. “Riding with confidence and precision while going fast is the hard part. Managing ponies that think they’re supposed to go fast is often much more difficult than they anticipate.”

The kids don’t compete as a team, but they become a team by learning to help and encourage each other. “Parents and kids have to be all in for this program to work,” McCue said. “Pony racing is for the kid who is tired of hearing ‘Change your diagonal’ for the hundredth time. Or when the pony takes off, and the kid laughs and says ‘That was fun!’ It’s not for everyone, but for the kids who love

it, it’s amazing.”

USPR is the only organization in America providing a safe and educational platform for hopeful young jockeys. Its long mission is to help promote and perpetuate the sport of steeplechase racing in America. It’s fun for kids of all ages: great craic, as the Irish say.

For more information: usponyracing.com

Regina Welsh taught them to ride: Imogen Weaver and Quick Draw Macgraw, winners of leadline trot Div 1 at Loudoun PTP, high-fives Suzanne Stettinius, former jockey now racehorse trainer. Regina Welsh photo

Elizabeth Scully and Royal Ruse fly the 13th fence, finishing second in her first Maryland Hunt Cup. Douglas Lees photo

OSMUN’S OBSERVATIONS

My life is fairly routine at Horse Country. Go to the store, a few walks during the day. Come home. And what a glorious home it is! Especially with spring well on the way. So much to do and smell in the yard or on the veranda. It was still a bit cool in early April so my Saturday morning was spent seriously lounging on my kitchen day bed while Marion puttered around. Or so I thought.

I could tell there was mischief afoot by the increased staccato of her footsteps as she readied to go out. More than her usual activities, I sensed a disturbance in the force. Then, in the late morning, Marion came thundering down the steps, headed for the door, and scooped me up without stopping.

“Quo vadis?” I asked. She likes it when I use classical phrases.

“To the groomer,” she replied.

Walking the Plank

sit and look around. I found myself near another tethered dog. She was military, without a doubt. Incredibly fit. What is it, I thought, with these SEALs and their bodies? Even her whiskers looked like they were subjected to morning calisthenics.

There were lots of men and women warriors with their highly trained dogs. More than pets but just as loved. We met a Congressional Medal of Honor recipient, Afghani women soldiers, and a lady who had just rowed from Tenerife to Antiqua, setting a new world record. (The thought of those cold Atlantic waters made me shudder.) And Miss Scotland was there, along with a host of her countrymen.

I tried to strike up a conversation with the dog next to me. “There certainly are a lot of people here tonight.”

Now, I knew it was a bit early for my spring scalping at Hound and Hair and, to boot, this day included a bath and brush out, tooth brushing and toenail clipping. Ouch!

Back home later, I had short respite but by mid-afternoon we were headed out the door again.

“You know,” I said, “you should include me in your decision making when you’re planning an excursion. I might be able to contribute something helpful.”

“What could you contribute?” she asked.

“Well, I could introduce you to the benefits of not going out at all, staying home and walking the yard perimeter.”

“Then we wouldn’t be going anywhere,” she said. “And we wouldn’t be going to this exciting event today.”

“What event? Where exactly are we going?”

“Washington!” she replied breathlessly as she tossed me into the car. Soon we had a gaggle of her friends with us and were speeding east.

On a typical Saturday night, she heads into the big city for dinner and I stay in the car while she hobnobs with her friends. But this evening was starting to turn into something different.

She pulled up to valet parking at the Omni-Shoreham, lifted me out of the car and set me down with my leash firmly attached. Among the bustle of people entering the hotel were several men wearing kilts and others in military uniforms. I hadn’t seen men this fit since my time among the Montana lumberjacks. From the chatter, I deduced we were there to attend some kind of show. But why kilts and uniforms?

We all trotted to the hotel lobby which was crowded with people in an even wider array of costumes; men in tuxedos, young women in white formal dresses, more burly men in kilts, and buff young men in military outfits. Marion and her friends were cooing non-stop.

Short critters perceive the world differently. A good example is that elevators smell different to us than they do to tall creatures. For me, this event was a world of fast-moving shoes that were to be both admired and dodged at the same time. There were high heels, wing tips, camo boots, sandals. I felt like a character in a video game trying to avoid being blasted by alien death rays. (Being so low to the floor in the crowded elevator, I could have answered the age-old question, “What does a Scotsman wear under his kilt?” had I not been so focused on avoiding a pointy-toed stiletto striking me in the butt.)

Once off the elevator, Marion found a place for me to rest, a little aside from the flow of traffic. She plunked down a bowl of water, lashed me to a chair, and issued a firm “Stay!” command in case I had any ideas of chewing through my leash and making a break for it. Then off she went to see about Horse Country’s participation in what I had now figured out was a fashion show, specifically a benefit for Navy SEALs. Dressed to Kilt is a 20-year-old charity started by Sean Connery—my idol and fellow Scotsman—along with others to support the SEALs. That explained the uniforms and all the kilts.

Despite not being included in the planning, I was now enjoying myself immensely.

Temporarily free from the worry of being inadvertently stepped on, I could

“Affirmative,” she replied tersely. She wasn’t looking at me, just peering at the passing faces above us. It was as if her brief glance my way assessed me as a non-threat and she was back to scanning for incoming dangers or whatever it is they scan for.

I tried again. “I’m Osmun.”

“Roxie,” came the curt reply.

“I’m a Scottie, y’know. Like Miss Scotland, Sean Connery, and all those gents wearing kilts. My people.”

“Uh huh.”

I thought I’d take a different tack. “I hope we won’t have to perform any tricks here tonight.”

“Tricks?” There was a clear tone of disdain in her reply.

“Like this.” I did a poorly executed rollover, barely avoiding getting strangled by my leash. So much for trying to impress the stoic Roxie. “How about you? Any tricks?”

“Well,” she said, “I could eviscerate you using only one dew claw.”

“Oh,” I said, stepping back. “Hey, look! Over there. Is that a parrot?”

“Negative. It’s a hawk. Friendly. Her handle is Sheena.”

All the while her eyes kept scanning the crowd. I realized she was searching for her human handler. When he finally appeared, she didn’t change position but just tensed up, like a well-oiled spring. He reached into his pocket and withdrew a morsel, holding it high. Roxie sprang from her sitting position, leaped well above the man’s head, and snatched the morsel before lightly landing again in a sit, waiting for permission to swallow the treat.

I was in awe!

But, awe aside, it also reminded me how hungry I was. My usual 5:30 meal had been missed. Fortunately, many passing people had stooped to pet me or give me treats. One model even shared a bit of carpaccio. Needless to say, I didn’t wait for anyone’s permission to swallow my food.

Eventually, Marion returned, pulling out the dreaded nylon horse brush and combed my beard, as impressive, I may say, as any seen there that night. She then introduced me to the lovely Brittany.

“Now Osmun,” Marion explained, “Brittany is going to take you for a walk. Pull out your bag of showing tricks. Head up, perky tail, jaunty trot, and remember—no groaning or sitting or refusing to be led. You do remember being a show dog, right?”

Turning to my new handler, she said, “Brittany, here is your man.”

It all became clear now. I was just a prop in the Horse Country portion of the fashion show. Oh, the shame! Brittany led me through the crowded room to the stage. I was once again dodging a field of dangerous footwear. We came to a short flight of metal steps that led to the runway, what we used to call in the dog show world, without much affection, the “Gangplank.”

No way was I going to climb those steps. I was retired from showing! Not to mention the scary chance of falling off the runway into the void with nothing to reward me but a hard landing. No sooner had I planted my feet in my best “All Stop” position when Brittany whisked me up and carried me to the top of the steps. I hadn’t expected that counter tactic.

Claudia Coleman illustration

Then, when she set me down, a strange thing happened. It all came flooding back to me, how much I enjoyed the dog show part of my life. My back arched, my ears and tail zinged to attention, and as Brittany started her long-legged walk down the runway, I found myself trotting after her in total bliss!

The crowd went wild and cheered enthusiastically. As we bounced down the stairs at the end of the walk, I was pawed and petted without mercy! It hadn’t taken me long to get back into the swing of things. “Oh, whatever do they want now?” I whined.

I glanced over to Roxie and she was looking at me with a new light in her eyes. Evidently, I had scored a good mark in her estimation. She was no longer looking for her handler any more than I was thinking of my Luna back in Montana. Forgive me, dear.  Heat of the moment. Couldn’t be helped.

The drive home was boisterous and full of lively, positive chat. Our stylist and the models did a great job of showing off some of Horse Country’s unique items: tweed jackets, evening tails, Italian riding boots, capes and country coats, and hats, some truly amazing hats.

A highlight of the show, other than my stellar performance, was Hally Woodbury in her scarlet coat and hunt cap, who wowed the crowd with a wild whipperin’s halloa punctuated by the sharp crack of her hunt whip.

We made it home in the wee hours and it was soon to bed. Exhausted as I was, my sleep was filled with strange images of the evening. A swooping hawk, plaid kilts, a sea of shoes, models galore, the flash of the photographers’ cameras, and an amazing SEAL dog named Roxie. Sweet dreams!

JENNY’S PICKS

HORSE COUNTRY BOOKSELLERS

Specialists in New, Old & Rare Books on Horses, Foxhunting, Eventing, Polo, Racing, Steeplechasing & Sporting Art

60 Alexandria Pike, Warrenton, VA 20186 800-882-HUNT • 540-347-3141

Since our editor tells me we have a pretty full package for this issue, I’ll be brief and let you know about some newly acquired used books you might be interested in. We’ve carried them as new books; now most are out of print.

Hardaway, Benjamin H. III. Never Outfoxed. Privately printed, Columbus, GA, 1997. Regular edition. Dj very good, book fine. Autographed to Will O’Keefe. Foxhunting reminiscences by a well-known American foxhunter. Hardcover, 377pp. $65.00 #6557

Hooker, Henry W. Fox, Fin and Feather. Derrydale Press, Lanham & New York, 2002. Black cloth cover, gold lettering, fine condition, dj fine. Tales of hunting, fishing and foxhunting—hours of good reading! Hardcover, 302pp. $35.00 #6558

Mackay-Smith, Alexander. Foxhunting in North America. American Foxhound Club, Millwood, VA, 1985. First ed. 8vo, illus. Autographed. Book very good condition. DJ has rubs, white spots of unknown origin on back. Hardcover, 263pp. $50.00 #6547

Meads, Jim. My Hunting World. Quiller Press, London, 1999. Fine condition exc. for a few grooves in dj, which is otherwise very good. Red cloth cover. Color photographs of various hunts from Britain’s famous running photographer. Hardcover, 175pp. $45.00 #6559

Pollard, Hugh B. Mystery of Scent. Eyre & Spottiswoode, London, 1937. First ed. 8vo, good condition, dj dirty with small chips. A technical treatise on scent by an enthusiastic horseman and hunter. Hardcover, 139pp. $25.00 #6506

Claudia Coleman illustration

Sedgefield Performance Trials

Hosted by Sedgefield Hunt, Reidsville, NC, March 25-26, 2023

Mark Jump Photos

Will O’Keefe was honored at the Virginia Gold Cup races on May 6, 2023, for his 40 years of service calling the races. The Gold Cup Timber Stakes was dedicated to him and he received a Virginia Gold Cup medal. Dr. William H. Allison, co-chairman of the races, looks on. Douglas Lees photo

Will O’Keefe Retires

Beginning in 1980, a day at the races was enlivened with the sound of Will O’Keefe’s knowledgeable and engaging narration. Accompanied by his longtime partner in the booth, Mike Hughes, the twosome kept the crowd informed and entertained with their lively commentary for an amazing 42 year run.

Will’s iconic stature was built on his combination of an encyclopedic store of information combined with his ability to recall every detail from memory, even those from the distant past.

Barclay Rives perfectly describes how Will brought the action to life for his listeners.

“Will O’Keefe was the voice of Virginia steeplechasing. His race calls were racing musical accompaniment. His accelerating cadence, rising pitch and volume pulled spectators into the excitement of every close finish. Will maintained excitement even when the race was not close with his triumphant proclamation of a leader ‘In hand and in command.’ His love of the sport, irresistible enthusiasm, and professionalism kept the action fresh and new for every appreciative audience.”

Readers of this publication have been relying on Will’s reports for nearly as long as he’s been calling the races. His firsthand accounts have recreated the events of each meet and provided behind-the-scenes insights that brought the action to life.

Will’s influence has extended far before the announcer’s job. In his role as president of the Virginia Steeplechase Association and through a variety of other volunteer efforts, Will has been instrumental in promoting and supporting steeplechasing and point-to-point racing throughout the Mid-Atlantic region and beyond. The numerous awards he’s received for those efforts attest to the significant contributions he’s made to the racing community.

Will has decided that it’s time to step down from both of these duties. A new voice now calls the racing action. And while we’ll sorely miss Will’s wordsmithing on these pages, we’re fortunate to have Betsy Burke Parker taking on that duty. Betsy has a depth of knowledge regarding the horse community, racing and otherwise, and decades of professional reporting experience. She’s contributed to our pages many times over the years and we’re thrilled to have her now as a regular contributor.

We wish the best for Will going into the future. He will always remain a vital part of the Horse Country legacy and a good friend to all who know him.

Moore County Hounds’ Huntsman Lincoln Sadler had a large field of followers as he moved off with the hounds competing in the Performance Trials hosted by Sedgefield Hunt, Reidsville, NC, over the weekend of March 25-26, 2023.

Four ladies from Last Chance Hounds—(l-r) Lisa Reid, Jackie Hoffman, Susu Dale, and Terri Maring—proudly display the multiple awards their hounds collected. They ranked #1, 2, 4, 8, and 10; top pack; and hounds ranked in the top ten in all overall categories. Sadly, news arrived just before press time of the passing of George Harne, founder of Last Chance Hounds and the force that propelled the pack to such success.

A total of 65 hounds competed in the Sedgefield Performance Trials, five hounds each from 13 different hunts.

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RACING

Spring Races

By Betsy Burke Parker

The spring steeplechase season in Virginia featured seven point-to-points and four National Steeplechase Association sanctioned meets.

Rappahannock Hunt Point-To-Point, March 4

The traditional kick-off to Virginia’s spring steeplechase circuit was held on a blustery early March day at The Hill near Culpeper. Farm owner Larry Levy said the crowd that swelled the hillside parking was as big as any of the three years he’s hosted the club’s meet.

U.S. Pony Racing organized three divisions to open the program. Owner-trainer Betty McCue brought a van-full of ponies and kids from her White Hall, Maryland, farm.

The small division was won by Cami Kern on Chris Kern’s Mallory. McCue saddled Blueberry to win the medium division wire-to-wire with Yomar Ortiz, Jr. in the irons. Ortiz’s father, Yomar, Sr., is a flat track jockey who’s won nearly 500 races worth more than $11 million.

Registered—but pony-sized—Thoroughbred mare Mini won the large division under jockey James Wyatt, son of steeplechase trainer Todd Wyatt and former jump jockey Blair Waterman Wyatt.

President of the Steeplechase Jockeys Association of America, trainer Forrest Kelly saddled Black and Blue Stable’s Barrister to win the maiden timber. Apprentice rider Colin Smith, son of Metamora (Mich.) Hunt Club huntsman, Adrian Smith, had the mount.

Kelly also saddled veteran Fletched to win the open timber with apprentice Elizabeth Scully. T & C Stables’ Mo’s in the House (Gerard Galligan up) made a bid with a half mile to go, but Fletched responded to the challenge and won as much the best.

Fletched and Scully won the same race last year.

New York fashion designer, former national sales manager for Ferragamo and new steeplechase owner Daniel Denefrio grew up what he called “a racing super-fan since childhood,” south of Saratoga, New York. Trainer Ricky Hendriks brought Denefrio’s first ’chaser, Fightinirishtabit for a season tune-up on the turf at Rappahannock. A two-time winner over hurdles in 2022, the novice was reserved well off the pace by rider Elizabeth Scully, easing past early leaders Ahnaf (Galligan) and Shootin the Breeze (under defending NSA champion rider Parker Hendriks) as the group entered the final furlong, Fightinirishtabit was up by 10 at the wire.

The day’s finale was a family affair—apprentice Taylor Kingsley partnered maiden turf winner Thundra for owner-trainer-dad, Arch Kingsley, Jr. Thundra, Virginia-bred by Raleigh Minor, was making her lifetime first start.

Warrenton Hunt Point-to-Point, March 18

An overflowing entry box at the Warrenton Hunt Point-to-Point made for triple splits in the maiden hurdle and open turf races as steeplechase horsemen flocked to the historic Airlie racecourse north of Warrenton for the March 18 meet.

Jockey Mell Boucher, daughter of jockey Richard Boucher and trainer Lilith Boucher, had her first threewin day. She opened the card taking the open hurdle with Jacqueline Ohrstrom’s Tease and Seize, a French-bred imported from England by trainer Richard Valentine last fall.

Valentine and Boucher teamed up again with Ohrstrom’s Connagh’s Quay to win the apprentice hurdle. Connagh’s Quay was reserved off the pace before unleashing a sustained move from the final hurdle home to hold off Brown Delivers (Teddy Davies) by a half-length.

Boucher also partnered Virginia Equine’s Dulini to win the Virginia-certified turf race for trainer Susan Cooney. A daughter of Madefromlucky, 4-year-old Dulini was bred by Louisa veterinarian Dr. Doug Daniels.

Pro Jamie Bargary won two of the three maiden hurdle divisions—one on Rolling Tide LLC’s Rewind for trainer Doug Fout and one on Riverdee Stable’s Fits the Jill for Hall of Fame trainer Jack Fisher. The other maiden was won by Imonlysaying (Parker Hendriks), making his first U.S. start since imported for owner Upland Flats over the winter by trainer Keri Brion.

Over timber, owner-trainer Todd McKenna saddled his Hard Strike (Gerard Galligan) to win the headline Warrenton Hunt Cup in a driving finish to overtake Sky Hy Star (Barry Foley) in the final strides. Teddy Davies rode his father Joe’s Brave Deacon to win the novice rider timber, with Brett Owings riding Hero’s Return to win the novice timber.

Considered a “war-horse” with 61 starts on the flat—10 wins over five seasons for almost $100,000 in earnings—Night League hadn’t hit the winner’s circle since winning a $4,000 claimer in 2017 at Thistledown. He’s got a new game: Side-saddle ’chase association founder Devon Zebrovious was aboard for a narrow victory in the 1 1/8-mile specialty race, winner by a narrow head from My Silver Belle (Lauren Apple).

Piedmont Foxhounds Point-to-Point, March 25

After 3½ miles, just a head separated the top two finishers in the headliner Rokeby Bowl at the Piedmont Foxhounds Point-to-Point March 25 at the Salem Farm course in Upperville.

Teddy Davies got the mount on Irv Crawford’s To Be Or Not To Be, trained by his father, Joe Davies. To Be Or Not To Be stayed in touch with early leader Shootist (Colin Smith) before wearing down his rival in the long, uphill homestretch.

It was Davies’ second-straight Rokeby win—he won the 2022 running with Todd McKenna’s Mystic Strike.

Davies also partnered Adlestrop Hill’s Paddy’s Crown to win the novice rider timber.

Current leading NSA trainer Leslie Young saddled Irish-bred The Butler Yates (Freddie Procter) to win the maiden timber by three lengths from Shootin The Breeze (Conor Tierney).

Trainer Leslie Young went 1-2-3 and 1-2 in the maiden and open turf races to close the card. Leipers Fork Steeplechasers’ Rampoldi Plan (Mikey Hamill) ground out the win from stablemates Garrison Forest (Procter) and Project Two (Virginia Korrell) in the maiden, with German-bred mare Soramond (Procter) going wire-to-wire winning by 7 from stablemate Hoffman (Hamill).

Procter closed the card with another win, partnering Flying Elvis Stable’s Vincent Van Gogo for trainer Neil Morris to win the Virginia-bred turf. Continued

Rappahannock Hunt Point-to-Point Open Timber (l-r) Mo’s In The House (Gerard Galligan, up) – 2nd; Fletched (Elizabeth Scully, up) – 1st Douglas Lees photo

Warrenton Hunt Point-to-Point Amateur/Novice Rider Hurdle Connagh’s Quay (Mell Boucher, up) – 1st; Brown Delivers (Teddy Davies, up) – 2nd Douglas Lees photo

Warrenton Hunt Point-to-Point Open Timber (l-r) Hard Strike (Gerard Galligan, up) – 1st; Sky Hy Star (Barry Foley, up) – 2nd Douglas Lees photo

Rappahannock Hunt Point-to-Point Maiden Timber (l-r) Barrister (Colin Smith, up) – 1st; Adjutant (Gerard Galligan, up) – 2nd; Bet The Pot (#4, Charles Bennett, up) - 3rd Douglas Lees photo

Old Dominion Hounds Point-to-Point, April 8

Making his first start in open company, Irv Naylor’s Stooshie turned what seemed like an apparent defeat into a dramatic “on the nod” victory in the headliner Leeds Don open timber at the Old Dominion Hounds Pointto-Point April 8.

The meet marked a first on the Virginia circuit—a hybrid point-to-point and National Steeplechase Association race meet, with three NSA races worth $65,000 joining nine races on the unsanctioned card for a full day of action at the Ben Venue course near Flint Hill.

“I thought Old Dominion did a magnificent job, especially given it’s the first time out of the gate,” so to speak, said NSA president Al Griffin, a resident of Marshall and former master of the Warrenton Hunt. “The feedback we (the NSA) have received so far has been very positive…(and) you know the steeplechase community is famously hard to please. It was a great day,” with lots of entries, a huge crowd and a wellreceived live stream beaming the action worldwide.

Stooshie’s trainer Cyril Murphy said it was the perfect setup for the novice timber convert. “I knew this was the right spot” for the horse, an early season prep on a rolling racecourse that jockey Barry Foley could use strategically to channel the headstrong Irish-bred’s speed and showcase his stamina,” Murphy explained. “It just had to roll right.”

Stooshie is fast, he said, a winner over hurdles in his native Ireland and over hurdles and timber since imported to the U.S. in 2019, but he’s overeager in the beginning stages of his races. The horse requires a patient, sympathetic partnership with his rider, Murphy added, to quiet that inner competitive streak until the later stages of a race. Old Dominion is “a good place to put this horse (because) he needs a course that helps him ‘switch off.’ ”

The rolling hills at Ben Venue help, echoed Foley. “He’s the sort of horse the less you interfere the better,” he said. “It took me the first two fences to get him to settle,” with light but insistent rein pressure coupled with using a literal, physical roadblock from early leader Storm Team (champion rider Graham Watters up). “I was able to sit out the back,” Foley added, waiting until the final two furlongs of the three-mile feature to unfurl Stooshie’s best effort.

Foley timed it just right, jumping alongside Storm Team at the second-last, edging ahead at the final fence and holding firm when Storm Team battled back under strong urging from Watters in the last yards of the race.

Stooshie won by a head in what Murphy called an outstanding effort given that rival Storm Team is a multiple stakes winner of more than $300,000. “Stooshie really held tough,” Murphy said. “I’m pretty happy with that.”

In the day’s other NSA action, Hall of Fame conditioner Jack Fisher had his first winner of the young season. He saddled Riverdee Stable’s Fits the Jill to win the distaff, one of two $25,000 NSA maiden hurdle races. Michael Smith’s Hoffman impressed in his first U.S. win in the other $25,000 maiden.

Jo Anne Morris’ Ahnaf (Gerard Galligan) won one of two point-to-point maiden hurdle divisions, the Danielle Hodsdon-trained Boffo Kid (Jamie Bargary) the other.

Defending NSA rider titlist Parker Hendriks and defending NSA trainer titlist Keri Brion teamed to win the open hurdle with Upland Flats Racing’s Royne.

Brion also saddled turf prepper for Upland, Freddy Flintshire (Tatiana Sushko) to win on the flat, with the Neil Morris-trained Vincent Van Gogo (Graham Watters) winning his seventh Virginia-bred turf series race.

The side-saddle race was a match race, with Julie Nafe prevailing with My Silver Belle over Night League and Devon Zebrovious. It was the third-straight side-saddle win for Kentucky-bred My Silver Belle, Lauren Apple having won with the gray mare at Cheshire and Brandywine the two previous weeks.

Blue Ridge Hunt Point-to-Point, April 16

The Blue Ridge Hunt hosted racing April 16 at historic Woodley near Berryville. Though two competing NSA meets and two Maryland point-to-points kept the entries light at Blue Ridge, a big crowd was on hand at one of the circuit’s best viewing courses.

Unusual in steeplechase, the first race on the card was recorded as a “non-race” when both runners went through the wing at the third fence.

Leading trainer Leslie Young saddled Leipers Fork Steeplechasers’ For The Parish (Mikey Hamill) to win the open turf from Hipnotizada (Sarah Cundith).

Novice rider George Connolly got the call for Young aboard Runnymoore Racing’s homebred Aerial Assault, winning by seven from Auction Kingdom (Cundith).

Half-brother to jump winners Balistes, Eryx and Virginia Gold Cup winner Zanclus, Grunion (Michael Woodson) won the Virginia-bred series race for owner-breeder Bruce Collette and trainer Don Yovanovich. Like all his Pageland Farm homebreds, Grunion was named using the Latin word for a fish species by Collette, who has a doctorate in ichthyology—the science of fishes. Grunions are sardine-like fish that are found only off the coast of Southern California—San Diego to northern Baja, Mexico. Grunions spawn (lay their eggs) on the beach, completely out of the water.

Middleburg Spring Races, April 22

Pennsylvania-based trainer Leslie Young continued her banner season, saddling five winners on April 22— four at Middleburg and one at My Lady’s Manor in Maryland. The Middleburg Spring Races were celebrating 102 years at historic Glenwood Park this year, running in front of a capacity crowd on the rail and overflowing the built-in stone box seating overlooking the stretch.

The featured, grade 2 $100,000 Temple Gwathmey turned into a showcase for 2022 Eclipse Award finalist Snap Decision (Graham Watters). A superstar for owner Michael Hankin’s Bruton Street US and Hall of Fame trainer Jack Fisher since his 2019 hurdle debut, Snap Decision hadn’t made a start since finishing an uncharacteristically dull sixth in the American Grand National at Far Hills last October.

It was only natural that industry insiders wondered whether the six-month layoff would allow the now 9-year-old to reclaim his aura of invincibility or if the bay son of Hard Spun was past his

prime.

Piedmont Fox Hounds Point-to-Point Foxhunter Timber Island Nation (Conor Tierney, up) – 1st Douglas Lees photo

Be Counted (Elizabeth Scully, up) – 1 Douglas Lees Photo

Old Dominion Hounds Point-to-Point Filly and Mare Maiden Hurdle

Fits The Jill (Graham Watters, up) – 1st; Dream North (Jamie Bargary, up) – 2nd Douglas Lees Photo

Old Dominion Hounds Point-to-Point Maiden Hurdle 1st Division (l-r) Keys Discount (Barry Foley, up); Hoffman (Mikey Hamill,up) – 1st; with Thaleeq (Ross Geraghty, up) following. Douglas Lees Photo

Facing four accomplished rivals, the Phipps-bred was once again asked to concede weight—from 12 to 18 pounds rated at 158 topweight by NSA handicapper Bill Gallo under the Gwathmey’s handicap conditions.

But neither the layoff, age nor the weight could slow the popular hurdler.

Showing early speed, Snap Decision and jockey Graham Watters assumed the lead from flag drop, controlling the pace, running easily and jumping fluidly. Snap Decision maintained the advantage during the first two trips around the rolling Glenwood course, rated firm before a halfhour rain delay that saw a quick quarter-inch of rain give a bit of yield to the turf. With a half-mile to run, the pace quickened with pressure from Going Country (Barry Foley) and Belfast Banter (Jamie Bargary), who had been within striking range.

As Going Country and Belfast Banter wilted after engaging Snap Decision for a quarter-mile, Sharon Sheppard’s Redicean (David England)—graded stakes winner of more than $350,000—loomed approaching the infamous Glenwood “elbow” turn into the stretch.

Snap Decision responded to the fresh challenge to draw off by almost 4 lengths at the wire.

With the victory, Snap Decision boosted his career earnings on the flat and over jumps to more than $900,000.

In the timber headliner, two 14-year-olds—Ballybristol Farm’s two-time timber champ Andi’amu (Jack Doyle) and seven-time stakes winner Upland Partners’ Mystic Strike (Gerard Galligan)—have made a startling combined 95 starts.

Trainer Leslie Young’s Andi’amu got away quick from the flag in the 3¼-mile Middleburg Hunt Cup, but he was soon joined by Northwoods Stable’s veteran Storm Team (Graham Watters).

The duo ran together until the last time up the backstretch. Storm Team dropped back with Mystic Strike taking up the chase. Andi’amu led over the last, but Mystic Strike drew even before the elbow. Andi’amu dug deep for the narrow victory; Mystic Strike was second, with Cracker Factory (Jamie Bargary) third, Storm Team trailing in fourth.

In the day’s other racing, Riverdee Stable’s Mission Brief (Watters) withstood a half-mile duel with Leipers Fork Steeplechasers’ Rampoldi Plan (Mikey Hamill) before prevailing by a hard-fought neck in the $30,000 Paul Fout maiden hurdle.

With 2021 champion rider Watters riding for 2006 champion rider-turned-trainer Danielle Hodsdon, the 5-yearold Kentucky-bred son of Noble Mission got the win for Sean Clancy’s Riverdee.

Clancy was 1998 NSA champion rider.

The Hero Next Door, a 5-year-old Irish-bred son of Jet Away, was never headed in the $35,000 allowance hurdle, winning for rider David England, trainer Leslie Young and Middleburg-based owner Michael Smith.

The Hero Next Door was purchased for $145,000 from the Cheltenham horses of racing age sale in England last winter. He’d won his hurdle debut at the Carolina Cup Races earlier in April with a 19-length romp.

Young also saddled steeplethon winner Fast Vision (Harrison Beswick) for Leipers Fork Steeplechasers. His first try over the varied obstacles in the cross-country division, Fast Vision won the 2 5/8-mile, $20,000 race by 3½ lengths from Sherry Fenwick’s Anticipating (Barry Foley).

Loudoun Hunt Point-to-Point, April 23

For the third year running, the Loudoun Hunt and Loudoun Hunt West combined to host racing at historic Morven Park in Leesburg. The revamped racecourse carded a host of pony races, two divisions of maiden hurdles and four flat races at their April 23 meet.

In the open turf, Charlie Fenwick’s Withoutdestination (Elizabeth Scully) ran down stablemate Wicked West (Tom Garner) in the final furlong to win in a driving finish. Both are trained by Todd Wyatt. An English-bred 7-year-old, Withoutdestination had strung together four wins in a row his first season in the U.S. (three point-to-points and an easy maiden score at Middleburg Spring in 2021) but he hadn’t been on the racecourse since he’d been pulled up in a non-winners of two at Saratoga that summer. Withoutdestination was a $57,000 purchase at the autumn horses in training sale at Tattersalls in 2019.

In the Virginia Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association turf race, defending series champ Vincent Van Gogo (Jamie Bargary) and War and Roses (Gerard Galligan) battled stride for stride for most of the 1¼ miles, but with an exquisitely timed late run, apprentice rider Erika Taylor drove B Determined up the center of the course to win by a neck for owner Mint Meadows Farm and trainer Suzanne Stettinius.

Rider Gretchen Eisenberg partnered Betty McCue’s Prince Khozan to win the young rider turf race. It was Eisenberg’s first ride—and win—on a horse. She’d competed in the pony race series in 2016.

Emerging from a full field of 10 in the maiden turf, Peggy Steinman-homebred Dyna Mast (Barry Foley) overtook early leader Quidditch (Jamie Bargary) in the deep stretch to win by a length.

Dyna Mast is trained by Doug Fout. Continued

Blue Ridge Hunt Point-to-Point, Novice Rider Flat Aerial Assault (George Connolly, up) – 1st Betsy Burke Parker Photo

Blue Ridge Hunt Point-to-Point, The Woodley Cup Grunion (Michael Woodson, up) – 1st Betsy Burke Parker Photo

Middleburg Spring Races, The Middleburg Hunt Cup Timber Stakes Andi’Amu (yellow silks, Jack Doyle, up) – 1st Betsy Burke Parker Photo

Middleburg Spring Races, Temple Gwathmey Sport of Kings Hurdle Stakes Snap Decision (Graham Watters, up) – 1st Betsy Burke Parker Photo

Middleburg Spring Races, Maiden Hurdle Mission Brief (leading, Graham Watters, up) – 1st Betsy Burke Parker Photo

Loudoun Hunt Point-to-Point Maiden Hurdle, 2nd Division (l-r) Moonshine Time (Parker Hendriks, up) – 2nd; Absam (Jamie Bargary, up) – 1st Joanne Maisano photo

Loudoun Hunt Point-to-Point Maiden Hurdle, 1st Division (l-r) Hold Hard (#4, Barry Foley, up) – 1st; Gun for Success (#3, Ross Geraghty, up) – 3rd Joanne Maisano photo

Hurdle (l-r) Ping Pong Champ (Graham Watters, up) – 1st; New Appointment (Mell Boucher, up) – 3rd

Tiffany Dillon Keen photo

It was the second win of the day for Foley and Fout—they also teamed with Rolling Tide’s Hold Hard to win a division of the maiden hurdle. Bargary rode Absam for owner Kiplin Hall and trainer Willie Dowling to win the other maiden division.

Pony race winners included Gilbert and Pauly Aguilera (Shetland), Mallory and Cami Kern (small), Blueberry and Yomar Ortiz, Jr. (medium), and Jannydancer and Jaidyn Shore (large).

Foxfield Races, April 29

The 44th annual Foxfield Spring Races, one of three NSA stops in Virginia on the spring circuit, offered record purses of $180,000. A festive crowd lined the rails of the Garth Road course north of Charlottesville at the April 29 meet.

In the featured Daniel Van Clief memorial hurdle stake, Upland Flats Racing and John Lewis’ West Newton made it back-to-back wins this season.

West Newton (Harrison Beswick) followed up his 120 handicap victory at Aiken in March with a hardfought nose score over Irv Naylor’s Scorpion’s Revenge (Barry Foley). Breaking on top, West Newton held the lead start-to-finish in the 2 1/8-mile headliner, repelling a late rally from Scorpion’s Revenge to prevail at the line.

Ricky Hendriks trains West Newton, purchased for $53,000 from the Tattersalls July sale in England as a 3-year-old.

Leading trainer Leslie Young saddled three Foxfield winners. Coming off of 15 career starts on the flat at Penn National, Tom Rice’s Oscar Winner (Mikey Hamill), a 5-year-old Pennsylvania-bred, came from off the pace to win the maiden claiming hurdle going away to open Young’s account. It was Oscar Winner’s first start over jumps. Pacesetter, CFC Stables’ Undercover Rowdy (Graham Watters), was second best.

Fearnought Farm’s Hooroo (Foley) won the $25,000 ratings handicap for trainer Doug Fout. A 6-yearold Irish-bred, Hooroo scooted to an 11-length win with Ashwell Stable’s Durragh (Mikey Hamill), another recent import making his NSA debut for trainer Leslie Young, in second.

Foxfield

Van Clief Memorial Handicap Hurdle Stakes (l-r) City Dreamer (Graham Watters, up) – 3rd; Animal Kingston (Gerard Galligan, up) – 4th; West Newton (Harrison Beswick, up) – 1st

Tiffany Dillon Keen photo

Gill Johnston’s Ping Pong Champ (Graham Watters), won for the second time in his last three outings with an emphatic score in the 110 ratings handicap. Following his maiden victory to close out 2022, the 5year-old son of Temple City ran a solid second to Fightinirishtabit in a 115 handicap at the Carolina Cup Races in March. The Jack Fisher-trainee made his move with a half mile to go, assuming command easily and prevailing by 3¼ lengths.

Irv Naylor’s Fearsome (Erin Swope) was second.

Trainer Leslie Young continued her championship bid at Foxfield, saddling Leipers Fork Steeplechasers’ first-time starter For the Parish (Hamill) to capture the $30,000 maiden special hurdle. The 5-year-old Irishbred ran like a seasoned horse, breaking just behind the more experienced Sa’ad (Foley), launching a sustained bid just before the stretch run and digging in to prevail by a length over Hard Game’s High Deff (Gerard Galligan), a recent convert to jump racing after a dozen starts on the flat.

The win gave Young two on the day at Foxfield to go along with a pair at the Queen’s Cup, also April 29 in Charlotte, North Carolina.

In the timber ranks, longtime division leader Irv Naylor had won his third Maryland Hunt Cup on Saturday four hours north of Charlottesville. At nearly the same moment as Naylor’s Withoutmoreado (Conor Tierney) was winning the Hunt Cup, trainer Neil Morris was saddling Naylor’s Family Tree (Foley) to win the maiden timber at Foxfield.

Family Tree had a lengthy career on the flat and over hurdles—he was placed in novice stakes competition, but the 8-year-old son of Galileo was switched to the timber division this season. With solid jumping efforts throughout the 3 miles, and an eye-popping last-to-first surge after the final fence in the short Foxfield run-in, Family Tree won going away by 4 lengths over fellow Naylor colorbearer Island Nation (Gerard Galligan). Island Nation is trained by Kathy Neilson, who saddled Naylor’s Hunt Cup winner Withoutmoreado.

Middleburg Hunt Point-to-Point, April 30

Matthew Leslie Memorial Maiden Hurdle

Geordie Dreamer (Parker Hendriks, up) – 1st Middleburg Photo

Back at the Glenwood Park racecourse north of town, the Middleburg Hunt Point-to-Point April 30 featured a full card over hurdles and timber and on the turf.

Amateur-apprentice and high school student Chloe Hannum partnered her family’s Adlestrop Hill’s Our Legend to upend the historic Middleburg Bowl open timber headliner, a driving finish to win by 2 lengths from veteran Flaming Sword (Zach Miller).

Purchased after a long, winning career over hurdles for owner Rather Be Racing and trainer Jack Fisher, Our Legend has made four starts for the Hannum family. Chloe’s mother, Emily, trains the Irish-bred, who’s posted two wins, a second and a fourth on the spring circuit.

Carroll Hawkins’ Mekong (Jamie Bargary) won the maiden timber, his first try over solid fences. Mekong gritted out the victory following a protracted stretch run with Sky Hy Star (Barry Foley). Racing for Greg Hawkins and Hall of Fame trainer Janet Elliot, Mekong had not graduated from the hurdle ranks over three seasons, but trainer Mark Beecher said he thinks Mekong is a natural in the timber division.

Over hurdles at Glenwood, last year’s champion trainer, Keri Brion, and rider, Parker Hendriks, partnered for a pair of maiden wins with first-time starters Geordie Dreamer and Lady’s Game.

Virginia Gold Cup, May 6

The 98th running of the Virginia Gold Cup timber classic turned into one for the ages.

Middleburg

Middleburg Bowl Open Timber Our Legend (Chloe Hannum, up) – 1st Middleburg Photo

Trainer Todd McKenna had never won a race at Great Meadow. Rider Gerard Galligan had never won over timber at the championship course near The Plains. Timber specialist Mystic Strike had tried, twice, to win the Virginia Gold Cup, but came up short both times: His 2019 effort found him some 40 lengths behind winner Andi’amu, and he jumped poorly and lost his rider in 2021.

At age 14, time is running out for Mystic Strike.

In real upset fashion, it was a fairy tale ending for the Upland Partners’ veteran.

Hunt Point-to-Point

Middleburg Hunt Point-to-Point

Spring Races Daniel

Foxfield Spring Races Ratings Handicap

Third-choice in the race at 3-1, Mystic Strike wore down two-time Virginia Gold Cup winner and 3-2 favorite Andi’amu to annex the $100,000 timber classic and stop the two-time champion’s bid for a third Cup score.

The timber titans had sparred at Glenwood Park two weeks ago in the Middleburg Hunt Cup, 3¼ miles over similar fences. That day, Andi’amu repelled Mystic Strike’s relentless, quarter-mile charge from the last jump home. Andi’amu finished a neck in front that day, but Galligan said he was eager for the rematch at Great Meadow.

“This is just a special horse,” said Galligan, a native of County Kildare, Ireland and NSA champion rider in 2020. He’d partnered Mystic Strike to win the Pennsylvania Hunt Cup last November, like the Gold Cup at four miles. “He’s a machine,” and the longer the race, Galligan added, the better for the timber specialist.

The stage was set for a literal duel early in the headliner, with 2022 International Gold Cup winner and second-choice at 2-1 Tomgarrow falling with Harrison Beswick at the 10th. Cracker Factory (Jamie Bargary) inherited the lead, but Bargary missed the turn in to the water jump at 17 on the final circuit, off course and pulled up.

It left Andi’amu two lengths in front of Mystic Strike with a half-mile to run.

Galligan took aim at the leader rounding the north rail turn. Andi’amu, at 13 just one year junior to Mystic Strike, dug in, but Mystic Strike jumped to the lead at the last, drawing off by 2¾ lengths at the line.

“As much as I’d like to take credit, from there it was all him,” Galligan said of the protracted battle between the two rivals. Once Mystic Strike collared Andi’amu at the final fence, “no way he was letting Andi’amu get past him.

“This horse is a true professional.”

Part-owner with Upland Partners, trainer McKenna has engineered an upset before: Last fall, the Pennsylvania-based McKenna saddled 41-1 Noah and the Ark to run down 3-5 favorite Snap Decision in the Grade 1 Lonesome Glory hurdle stake.

Mystic Strike has now claimed most of the nation’s top timber prizes, including three Pennsylvania Hunt Cups, the Radnor Hunt Cup, the My Lady’s Manor stake, Genesee Hunt Cup and the Middleburg Hunt Cup.

“This horse just loves this job, but you’re always worried” to race against a top horse like Andi’amu, McKenna said. “I was literally thinking of scratching all week, but eight different people told me, no way, don’t do it.

“I’d always looked into that winner’s enclosure at Great Meadow and thought that’d be cool to get in there and get your picture made.

“It was.”

This is the 11th year of racing for Florida-bred Mystic Strike. Like Kentucky Derby winner Mage, he did not run as a 2-year-old, but he’s only missed the one season between retiring after his flat race career and his steeplechase career. Mystic Strike won four races on the flat, five point-to-points and, so far, 11 NSA timber races. He’s won nearly $400,000.

McKenna was in the winner’s circle again less than 24 hours later with Mystic Strike’s 7-yearold half-brother, Rhythmia (by Majestic Warrior) taking the first at the Winterthur Races near Wilmington, Delaware. Thirty minutes later, McKenna sent out Bob’s Bar to win the second. Current leading rider Harrison Beswick was aboard both.

Galligan also won the Gold Cup card closer over hurdles with David Hain’s Hail To The Chief for trainer Kathy Neilson.

The Undercard

Charlottesville horseman Sonny Via campaigned 2007 Eclipse titlist and Hall of Fame steeplechaser Good Night Shirt, but he hadn’t had a champion in 15 years.

Via thinks 4-year-old Welshman could break the drought.

In the $100,000 Grade 2 Semmes Memorial Hurdle Handicap, 2021 NSA champion rider Graham Watters kept the Kentucky-bred son of Flintshire well-placed, taking command at the last to win by two.

Third-choice at 4-1, Welshman is trained by Hall of Famer Jack Fisher in Monkton, Maryland.

Recent Irish import Gordon’s Jet (Bargary) was second, with Belfast Banter (Barry Foley) third.

In the cross-country steeplethon, Storm Team (Watters) settled into a stalking position behind early leader Brooklyn Speights (Bargary) for the first two of three miles. After the water splash with five furlongs to run, Watters let the timber veteran gear down, moving to the lead across the backstretch and widening to 14 lengths at the wire.

“This was his first time in this (varied obstacle) division,” Watters said. “He’s very clever, (but) he was surprised by the different sorts of jump as we went along. He jumped a little careful, but that’s OK to do that.”

Like trainer Jack Fisher’s other charges, Storm Team hacks out cross-country often when in training around the Maryland’s Hunt Valley country surrounding Fisher’s farm. Fisher said the horse is too keen to foxhunt, but that he’s jumped varied fences—at speed—in the Foxhall team chase, and that extra jump schooling “wasn’t necessary” to prepare Storm Team for the steeplethon course with timber, hurdles, living brush, an open ditch, an enormous brush-filled coop and the picturesque Swan Lake water splash.

The day’s other hurdle races were won by Leipers Fork Steeplechasers’ Rampoldi Plan (Jack Doyle), Hurricana Farm’s Merry Maker (Stephen Mulqueen) and Irv Naylor’s McTigue (Bargary). Complete results and a link to the entire race day on video are at nationalsteeplechase.com

Virginia Gold Cup Steeplethon Stakes Storm Team (Graham Watters, up) – 1st Douglas Lees photo

Speedy Smithwick Memorial Hurdle Stakes McTique (#5, Jamie Bargary, up) – 1st Douglas Lees photo

Virginia Gold Cup Timber Stakes Mystic Strike (Gerard Galligan, up) – 1st Liz Callar photo

A joyful group celebrates Mystic Strike’s victory in the featured Virginia Gold Cup Timber Stakes. (l-r) Celeste Vella; Will Allison, co-chairman of the races; Todd McKenna, trainer; Gerard Galligan, jockey. Liz Callar photo

Virginia Gold Cup David H. Semmes Memorial Hurdle Handicap, Welshman (Graham Watters, up) – 1st Douglas Lees photo

High-Tech in the Hunt Field

Ancient Sport Meets Modern Electronics

By J. Harris Anderson, Managing Editor

A Blast From the Past

In his 1962 treatise Riding to Hounds in America, William P. Wadsworth includes a remembrance from his youth.

“The first years I hunted with my father, it was a frequent occurrence if hounds were on a line, to let them hunt through dusk to darkness, staying with them as long as possible, and then keeping track of their cry in the long extinct but never to be forgotten evening stillness of the pre-truck era.

“When they ran to ground, we would get as close as we could, and my father would blow his horn. When he judged by ear that most of the hounds were on, we would jog home in the darkness, with never a thought that a motor car would come down the road and crash into the pack, or kill a stray hound coming home late. Those days are gone…”

William Wadsworth was born in 1906 and his father, Maj. W. Austin Wadsworth, served as master of the Genesee Valley Hunt (NY) until 1917, having stepped down as huntsman a few years earlier. So William would have been a very young lad in the time described here.

It was only a few years after Wadsworth’s booklet was published in ’62 that the Rappahannock Hunt masters tried an experiment with two-way radios. Granted, the rural Virginia countryside was still fairly open then, if not as free from traffic as was Upstate New York in the days before World War I. And the motivation was more about the master being able to keep track of the huntsman than for his huntsman and staff to keep track of hounds.

This early attempt (perhaps the earliest) of using radios in the hunt field was featured in Kitty Slater’s book The Hunt Country of America (1973, revised edition). The joint masters of Virginia’s Rappahannock Hunt, Jim Bill Fletcher and John R. DeBergh, were looking for a way that the masters and field could keep in close contact with huntsman and hounds in their rugged, mountainous terrain. As Kitty explains, they “determined to try out an experiment with a walkie-talkie as a ridie-talkie. The results were front-paged with even the New York Times giving it space. Mary Jamieson, member of the Rappahannock Hunt, accurately related the novel episode of the day electronics made its debut in the hunting field.” Here’s Mary’s account:

Joint Master Jim Bill Fletcher halted the pack at the foot of Fielding Mountain. He produced two small boxes with tall, shining antenna rods. He gave one to whip, Jimmie Dodson, with instructions to keep hounds and huntsman [Ollie Dodson] under surveillance at all times in order to report to the Master on the pack’s activities…

As soon as walkie-talkies were pocketed by Master and Whip, hounds started impatiently up the precipitous mountain-side… We were expectant, excited, silent. A few tense moments passed as the little box was held high; all eyes on it, all ears strained, all faces attentive. The antenna trembled and the box spoke. “Señors y señoras, hoy bebe Carta Blanca, la prima cerveza de Mexico.”

The MFH scowled at his walkie-talkie. “No, no, I don’t want to talk to Mexico. Jimmie, Jimmie, do you hear me? Speak to me. Over.”

Again crackling was heard as voices became audible. “This is Pearl. How many fertilizer trucks can you spare? Mary, send Joe with three to Tholand’s bottom.”

Suddenly the slightly querulous voice of Oliver Durant (who had taken a dim view of the proceedings from the beginning), stationed a short distance from the group in order to listen and watch for hounds, burst upon us. “Who the [bleep] are Pearl and Mary? I thought I heard Diamond and Blazer. Shut off that [bleeping] thing! Hounds are pulling down the west draw toward O’Bannon’s apple orchard. Diamond has found…let’s go!”

The tale concludes with one wag’s view of where the introduction of electronics might lead: “It will be a sad day when, and if, the fox is finally raised by a mechanical nose, tracked by radar, and brought down by guided missile, while the ‘hunters’ remain at breakfast, following the chase by television.” (The New York Times.)

Fast Forward Five Decades

If that dire bit of futuristic satire hasn’t been fully realized over the ensuing decades, at least some shadowy elements of its vision have become reality. From tentative experiments with ill-suited “ridie-talkies,” the range of high-tech gizmos has grown to include not only more powerful and reliable radios but other aids such as tracking collars on hounds, training collars, apps for game movement, mapping property lines, weather forecasts, and, of course, the ubiquitous cellphone. While today’s hunters may not be watching the actual chase on television, portions of the action can be relived in similar fashion thanks to helmet cam videos. GPS can display a digital image of the route hounds and hunters took during the chase, detailing every twist and turn.

The days of communicating solely by the sound of horn and hollers, gauging conditions by how smoke rises from chimneys, and watching the crows to predict game movement are, for most hunts today, elements of a fading past.

So just how extensive is the use of modern technology in the hunt field today and in what ways has it had an influence on the sport? To garner some answers to those questions, we asked several huntsmen to provide their input on what types of technology they use and their opinions of the impact it has on a typical day afield. The respondents ranged from those who can recall firsthand how mounted hunting was conducted back when the hottest advance in technology was the introduction of color TV to those who have never known life without a cellphone. Territories hunted stretched from limited acreage hemmed in by encroaching development to wide open terrain under western skies.

This was not intended to be an exhaustive, highly scientific study but rather an informal survey among huntsmen, professional and honorary, in some cases now retired, in one case for a beagle pack, with varying levels of experience hunting hounds. The hunts they represent range from those with histories that exceed a hundred years to one only recently organized. That said, the results paint a discernible picture of how technology is being used in today’s hunt field, its advantages and limitations, and, to some extent, how it might be put to better use.

“Radios are helpful for staff, but should only be used for brief informational exchanges.” Laura Batzer, Harvard Foxhounds. Rebecca Randall photo

“I would tell anyone don’t let technology take over. Eyes and ears are your first go to tools.” Erin McKenney, Millbrook Hunt. Lindsay Baldwin photo

“Much easier to prepare staff for the day if they get maps and directions a day or two before the hunt.”

Dr. Steven Thomas, MFH, Fort Leavenworth Hunt. Mark Jump photo

An executive summary of the results shows these bullet points:

• Many huntsmen have a love/hate relationship with the use of technology in the hunt field.

•Radio chatter is an annoyance and needs to be controlled.

•Safety, especially for hounds, outweighs any desire to stick to the pretech days.

•Technology makes the staff’s job easier and safer.

•Technology hampers staff’s ability to learn natural hunting skills.

•The size and terrain type of a hunt’s territory, plus the type of quarry chased, has some bearing on which types of technology are most needed. In terms of raw numbers, among those who participated in the survey, the most significant findings were:

•88% use radios.

•88% use tracking collars.

•41% use e-collars (for training and discipline).

•66% of those who use radios rated their effectiveness good to excellent.

•100% of those who use tracking collars rated their effectiveness good to excellent.

•78% of those who use e-collars rated their effectiveness good to excellent.

•93% of those who use radios found the learning curve moderate to easy.

•100% of those who use tracking collars found the learning curve moderate to easy.

•89% of those who use e-collars found the learning curve moderate to easy.

•The most common brand of radio used is Motorola, followed by Hytera and Midland.

•Garmin was the 100% choice for tracking collars and nearly exclusive for e-collars.

•82% agreed that the use of technology makes hunting safer for hounds.

•76% agreed that technology helps staff do their jobs more easily and effectively.

•100% agreed that good sport still depends mostly on the skill of the huntsman and staff.

Comments From the Field

The anecdotal remarks many participants provided offer some telling opinions about the proliferation of technology into the hunt field beyond the raw numbers.

Radio Chatter:

“Start with strict control of radio use because it’s impossible to get people to stop talking once they start.”

Dr. Steven Thomas, MFH, Fort Leavenworth Hunt

“I also want to stress, NO talking unless it pertains to hounds, or warning of an issue.” Sandy Dixon, MFH, Brazos Valley Hunt

“Radios are helpful for staff, but should only be used for brief informational exchanges.”

Laura Batzer, Harvard Foxhounds

“Set protocols for radio usage (staff can get too chatty), use ear pieces so verbal exchanges are not shared by either the quarry or fields.”

Stephanie Phillips, MFH, Rocky Fork Headley Hunt

“Radios for staff: easy to use, easy to abuse. Not easy to train staff to use sparingly and wisely. I look forward to the day when ear buds and bluetooth are used universally. Not only are [radios] aesthetically unpleasant but whippers-in can turn game by the load crack of their radios.”

Grosvenor Merle-Smith, ex-MFH, former Huntsman at Bull Run Hunt and Tennessee Valley Hunt, plus extensive experience as a whipper-in and performance trial judge.

“Everyone should avoid unnecessary chatter. The Huntsman does not need to know every time there is a ‘Ware hole’ acres away on the other side of the fixture.” Karen Dickson, Chagrin Valley Beagles

Type of Territory:

“We have a fair amount of large feral hogs, so I need to know where they are to redirect hounds away from them.”

Sandy Dixon, Brazos Valley Hounds

“To an extent. I miss hunting in an area where I didn’t need [radios and tracking collars]. I felt much more freedom and tranquility without them. Just my horse and the hounds.” Sarah Martin, Ozark Highland Hounds

“Although we have several fine fixtures that are loaded with game, none of them are very big and most are bordered by at least one, sometimes several, busy roads. The radios and collars have allowed us to position staff, both mounted and on the roads, in such a way and in time that our hounds (and sometimes the game) can often be turned back into the fixture, or at least stopped, short of the road.”

Stephanie Phillips, MFH, Rocky Fork Headley Hunt

“In Colorado, the cover is generally easier to see through, thus making the weather the most needed technology.” Nancy Mitchell, Bijou Springs (one of only two hunts among the respondents that opts for cellphones rather than radios)

Tracking Collars:

“We have not lost a hound since using tracking collars.”

Sandy Dixon, Brazos Valley Hounds

“I grew up hunting much more open country. Now, though, in the large territory we have, the lack of cell or radio signal, and inability to hear, the tracking collars are entirely necessary.”

Sarah Martin, Ozark Highland Hounds

“Collars have been awesome.”

Stephanie Phillips, MFH, Rocky Fork Headley Hunt

“A huge improvement for hound safety and recovery.”

Andy Bozdan, recently retired from Camargo Hunt and whose career included hunting hounds on three continents

“No hounds left out or picked up by wardens. Safer with the busy roads. In some areas I would say that it’s negligence not to use it. You don’t have to look at it unless you need to. But when things go wrong—pack splits, heading to a busy road or housing, etc.—you have it.”

Chris Burrowswood, Windy Hollow Hunt

“They are a fantastic asset. That said, I’ve seen huntsmen too often rely on the handheld unit to such an extent that they stop thinking as a huntsman. The GPS should be utilized when instincts and experience fail, or when hounds are out at the end of the day.” Grosvenor Merle-Smith

“I mainly use my GPS for hound retrieval at the end of a hunt.”

E-Collars:

Matthew Cook, Farmington Hunt

“I like the e-collars for the fact that you can correct a single hound without disrupting all hounds.” Erin McKenney, Millbrook Hunt

“The new Garmin GPS collars can include sound/shock capabilities, and are a great improvement over what we used to have. Their successful use depends hugely on the ability of the huntsman…knowing when, and where, and executed with perfect timing.” Grosvenor Merle-Smith

“Shock collars are useful in training and a nice ‘security blanket,’ but can be challenging and prone to mistakes during a high-pressure situation. It’s very easy to correct the wrong hound/hounds and shake their confidence.” Karen Dickson, Chagrin Valley Beagles

(The late legendary huntsman Melvin Poe was also a talented baseball player. When schooling hounds, he carried a small bag filled with rocks. If a hound misbehaved out of reach of the whip, Melvin could hurl a rock with unfailing accuracy at the offending hound’s haunch. A mild sting reminded the hound that, regardless of distance, he was not immune from correction; at least not within range of Melvin’s pitching arm. E-collars have expanded that range exponentially. But, as these comments suggest, accuracy is still a critical factor.)

The Motorola Mag One is a popular radio model for staff communication. Bluetooth technology is a growing trend to replace open air transmission systems, such as this one, to reduce noise chatter in the hunt field.

“In Colorado, the cover is generally easier to see through, thus making the weather the most needed technology.” Nancy Mitchell, Bijou Springs (one of only two hunts among the respondents that opts for cellphones rather than radios). Mary Susan Costa photo

Staff Performance:

“Much easier to prepare staff for the day if they get maps and directions a day or two before the hunt.”

Dr. Steven Thomas, MFH, Fort Leavenworth Hunt

“I do think all technology should be withheld as much as possible to hone the staff’s skills for at least the first few seasons.”

Sarah Martin, Ozark Mountain Hounds

“Many huntsmen control the movements of their staff to such an extent that they never learn to think for themselves, thus never learning the art of hunting by having to make their own decisions and live by them.” Grosvenor Merle-Smith

“I am able to radio to my whippers-in to strategically position them well in advance of a difficult situation. The radio has also allowed me to use less experienced whippers-in because I can communicate with them and instruct them rather than hoping that they will figure out where to go to be most helpful.”

Karen Dickson, Chagrin Valley Beagles

(In his 2005 book Whipper-In, Dennis Foster included a chapter on “Radios in the Hunting Field.” He had this to say about whips-in-training: “I believe whippers-in should go through a training process without radios so as to learn to hunt and then be given them.”)

Cautionary Comments:

“I would tell anyone don’t let technology take over. Eyes and ears are your first go to tools.” Erin McKenney, Millbrook Hunt

“If you are going to invest in either radios or GPS tracking, then buy the best available. Radios that use marine-level capability are the best as they are not so badly affected by hilly terrain.”

Andy Bozdan

“Technology is incredibly helpful and important, but ultimately, good sport has much to do with the Huntsman and staff and their relationship with the hounds! Happy hounds work enthusiastically longer and mind their cues better!”

Karen Dickson, Chagrin Valley Beagles

“Don’t be too reliant on technology. Eyes and ears are still very important.” Matthew

Cook, Farmington Hunt

REMEMBRANCE

Paul Neil Wilson, Ex-MFH

November 6, 1954 - April 4, 2023

You Say You Want a Revolution

Is the growing use of high-tech gear in the hunt field watering down the sport? Or is it helping keep mounted hunting viable a full century since William Wadsworth’s reminiscence of the time when he, his father, and hounds could “jog home in the darkness, with never a thought that a motor car would come down the road and crash into the pack”? In one sense, some forms of technology are serving as a defense against other forms. The Wadsworths didn’t need tracking collars because “motor cars” weren’t a threat. Thanks to the proliferation of those “motor cars,” there are fewer people today who grew up with horses and hounds and thus have the depth of hunting experience that some commentators noted is lacking today. But much of that can be offset by the prudent use of radios, weather apps, and GPS mapping.

The first industrial revolution (1765-1870), was powered by the coal-fueled steam engine. Foxhunters of that era decried the effects of belching smoke befouling the countryside and the gradual spread of railroad tracks slicing through hunting territory. It also led Thomas Carlyle to remark in an 1829 essay that technology was causing a “mighty change” in the “modes of thought and feeling” of men who “are grown mechanical in head and in heart, as well as in hand.”

Are we likely to see something akin to the dismal future predicted by the New York Times pundit, when “the fox is finally raised by a mechanical nose, tracked by radar, and brought down by guided missile, while the ‘hunters’ remain at breakfast, following the chase by television”? Or, as hunters have done for centuries, will technology help preserve the sport rather than destroy it?

This informal survey suggests the latter. So fire up those radios, keep a lid on the chatter, take comfort in the safety of tracking collars, and enjoy the chase. Over and out.

[Editor’s Note: A special thank-you to Mildred “Bucky” Slater for a heads-up on the account of Rappahannock Hunt’s early experiment with “ridie-talkies.”]

Paul Neil Wilson, 68, Ex-MFH of Fairfax Hunt and, following a merger, Loudoun Fairfax Hunt, passed away on Tuesday, April 4th, 2023. A native of Indianapolis, Indiana, Paul grew up in Corning, New York. After graduating from Virginia Tech University with a degree in finance and economics, he returned to New York and worked for Corning, Inc. His career took him to Raleigh, NC, and eventually to the Washington, DC, area where he and his wife Karyn purchased a horse farm in Purcellville, VA, in 1999.

Paul enthusiastically embraced the horse-centered life, first through his involvement in the racing syndicate Celtic Venture and then as a foxhunter. Although coming to mounted sport later in life, he quickly rose from field member to master, first with Fairfax Hunt and then with what is now Loudoun Fairfax Hunt following a merger in 2013 with Loudoun Hunt West. He stepped down from the mastership in 2019 when he and Karyn moved to Boyce, VA, where they joined the Blue Ridge Hunt in 2020.

In addition to his love of mounted sport, Paul had an equal passion for music. He was an accomplished guitarist, had played professionally earlier life, and cherished his extensive collection of instruments.

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As MFH, Paul Wilson addressed hunters and spectators at the Loudoun Fairfax Hunt Blessing of the Hounds, November, 8, 2013. Austin Kaseman photo

RACING

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Virginia Equine Alliance

One of a Kind Secretariat Statue Is Unveiled; 2023 Tour Plans Include Virginia Stops in Woodstock & New Kent

Secretariat, in the form of a 3,500pound bronze monument, raced back to his home state of Virginia in late March to kick off the national 50th anniversary celebration of his immortal Triple Crown sweep in 1973 when he won the Kentucky Derby, Preakness, and Belmont in record setting times.

The “Secretariat Racing Into History” monument by renowned equine artist Jocelyn Russell has traveled over 1,000 miles from a foundry in Oklahoma to the historic town of Ashland—just a 45-minute drive from Colonial Downs—where it was unveiled as the centerpiece of an anniversary celebration on April 1.  At 21 feet long and 11.5 feet tall, it is the largest monument of Secretariat in existence, dramatically illustrating the Virginia-born champion’s larger-than-life presence as an equine athlete and American icon.

Ashland has the honor of being the first venue of a multi-state 50th anniversary tour due to longstanding ties to the Chenery family. Secretariat’s breeder, Christopher Chenery, grew up and attended college there and founded the nearby Meadow Stable where Secretariat was born in 1970. Penny Chenery took over the farm for her father and managed Secretariat’s spectacular career. Her daughter, author/speaker Kate Chenery Tweedy, lives in Ashland and is carrying on the Secretariat legacy. She is chairing a committee to raise $550,000 to hopefully place the Secretariat monument permanently in Ashland at the Randolph Macon College campus.

“Secretariat’s story truly would come full circle if the monument is placed in Ashland,” said Ms. Tweedy. “How fitting it would be to see it happen during this milestone Triple Crown anniversary.”

“Big Red” left Ashland April 27 and departed for Churchill Downs—first stop on an anniversary tour—where Derby fans will be able to enjoy his greatness. The statue then headed to harness track Shenandoah Downs in Woodstock, one of two Virginia stops scheduled, where fans attending the Saturday May 13 harness race card in the Shenandoah Valley were able to see him up close and personal. Then it was off to the Preakness, Belmont, Saratoga, and Colonial Downs in New Kent for an appearance at the Virginia Derby September 9. More details are at secretariatforvirginia.com

Colonial Downs 2023 Stakes Schedule Announced; Summer Race Season Begins July 13

A record of more than $5.2 million in stakes purses will be up for grabs at the upcoming 27-day Thoroughbred meet at Colonial Downs which runs from July 13 through September 9 with racing every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday at 1:30 PM.

The total is buoyed by the relocation of the Grade I Arlington Million and Beverly D. Stakes and the Grade II Secretariat Stakes from their long-time home at Arlington Racecourse. In addition, the Grade III New Kent County Virginia Derby will carry a $500,000 purse and its sister race, the Virginia Oaks, has been kicked up to $250,000.

The Million, Beverly D., and Secretariat will be raced on Saturday, August 12, the traditional weekend for the internationally renowned trio. The Million

will be run at 1-1/4 miles and the Beverly D. will be contested at 1-3/16 miles while the one-mile Secretariat leads perfectly into the nine-furlong Virginia Derby four weeks later on closing day Saturday, September 9.

The aforementioned Virginia Derby will headline a card with $1.3 million in turf stakes on closing day which includes the $150,000 Da Hoss Stakes for older horses at 5-1/2 furlongs, $150,000 Colonial Cup for older horses at 1-1/2 miles, $125,000 Rosie’s Stakes for 2-year-olds sprinting 5-1/2 furlongs, and the $125,000 Kitten’s Joy Stakes for 2-year-olds at 1-1/16 miles.

The Commonwealth portion of the stakes program kicks off opening weekend with a quartet of $125,000 turf races for Virginia-bred runners on Saturday, July 15: the Edward P. Evans, Brookmeade, Punch Line, and Tyson Gilpin Stakes. The Saturday, September 2 card is highlighted by five $150,000 Virginiathemed grass stakes: the Jamestown for Virginia-bred/sired 2-year-olds while the remaining four are for Virginia-restricted horses—the Meadow Stable, Camptown, Bert Allen, and Nellie Mae Cox Stakes.

The New Kent barn area will open June 19 and the track will be available for training beginning June 22. Purses, which averaged $622,000 per day last year, will safely be over $650,000 this year said Frank Petramalo, VAHBPA Executive Director. “With the addition of the Arlington Million Day stakes, total purse money for the meet will be in the $19 million range,” he said.

The Secretariat Turf Course was set ablaze March 28 in an annual controlled burn that helps prepare and nurture the country’s widest grass racing surface for the upcoming meet. The burn takes dead cover off the turf in a rapid manner and allows it to grow back more plush, green, and safe within weeks. The controlled burn method is preferred to cutting the grass since the process is quicker and more efficient.

Harness Horse Driver David Ingraham Makes Career Start Number 53,000 at Shenandoah Downs in Woodstock

Even though driver David Ingraham did not cross the wire first in an April 15 conditioned trot at Shenandoah Downs, he did return to the winner’s circle to get his picture taken. The 61-year-old reinsman had just made career start number 53,000 in that race aboard Arthur Lisi’s Rocky Bomber and even though he finished fourth, was recognized afterwards for the milestone accomplishment.

“You don’t think of that kind of number until it actually happens,” said Ingraham, who is competing at Shenandoah Downs for the first time this spring. “You have to compete for a long time and be lucky enough to not get hurt too much over the years. When I started racing back home, Maine had a ‘Mister 2,000 Club’ so I initially had hoped to get to that level at some point.”

Ingraham competed regularly in Maine until 1989 when he went south to Florida, got a place and started racing there in addition to his home state. He has also raced in New York and at Colonial Downs. Ingraham has amassed over $31 million in purse earnings from 7,789 wins, 7,831 runner-up finishes, and 7,694 thirds.

Fans can see “Big Red” at the Virginia Derby September 9 at Colonial Downs. VEA photo

Harness driver David Ingraham made career start number 53,000 at Shenandoah Downs. Quenton Egan photo

The Colonial Downs annual turf burn took place in late March. Mitchell Bradley photo

The bronze Secretariat statue will be making its way to select tracks around the country in 2023. VEA photo

MARYLAND RACES

Mt. Harmon-Wicomico

The second Mount Harmon-Wicomico Point-to-Point was held at Mount Harmon Plantation, Earleville, Maryland, on April 16, 2023.

Tomgarrow

The 120th running of the Grand National Steeplechase, Butler, MD, April 22, 2023, Monbeg Stream (Freddie Procter, up) – 1st at the last fence. Douglas Lees Photo

The 125th Maryland Hunt Cup, Glyndon, MD, April 29, 2023 3rd fence (l-r): Rocket Star Red (Brett Owings, up); Withoutmoreado (#3, Conor Tierney, up) – 1st. Douglas Lees Photo

The 112th running of the My Lady’s Manor, Monkton, MD, April 15, 2023

(Freddie Procter, up) – 1st, over the 10th fence. Douglas Lees Photo

James Paxon, MFH and Huntsman, River Hills Foxhounds (PA) leads riders to the starting line for one of several pony races held at the Mount Harmon – Wicomico Hunt Point-to-Point on April 16.

Tisa Della-Volpe photo

In the Margarite du Pont de Villers Boden Lady Rider Timber, Blackstair Rocco (#2, Elizabeth Scully, up) finished second to City of Grace (Casey Pinkard, up). Tisa Della-Volpe photo

The day featured a first win for jockey Whitney Schweizer, riding Inle to victory in the H. Brooks Durkee Memorial Maiden Timber. Tisa Della-Volpe Photo