Longreen Opening Hunt

Longreen Foxhounds Celebrates 65th Opening Hunt

By Michele Harn

Bridlands in Como, Miss was host once again for the much anticipated Longreen Foxhounds opening meet held Saturday, November 5, 2022. This was the pack’s first day hunting since early last March, so they were eager to get their noses on the ground. Rain over night combined with brisk winds and cold temperatures couldn’t dampen the energy of the hounds, horses, or riders.

Tally-Ho Wagons were back and full. Stirrup Cup and treats were served at 9:30 am to the 93 in attendance, 44 of which were astride. The hounds, horses, and riders were blessed by Reverend Paul McLain of Calvary Episcopal Church of Memphis, Tenn. before the hounds were cast about 10:40 am. The 8-couple (16) hounds, ages 3 to 8 years old, were ready, but the quarry was elusive that day. Master of Foxhounds, Susan Walker, capably called off the well trained hounds when a few deer were flushed during the course of the two-hour hunt. Longreen members were joined by 12 members of Chula Homa Foxhounds.

Following the day afield, the historic McGhee log cabin was backdrop to a catered lunch served by Taylor Grocery food truck of Oxford, Miss. Lunch included fried chicken and catfish, hushpuppies, french fries, a bountiful salad bar by Dottie Benson, and festive fox shaped cookies made by Margaret Webb and Pam Ireland!