Formal Sunday Hunts

The locations of formal Sunday hunts are listed on the seasonal fixture card sent to all members.Non-members can call the kennel or Master for the time and place. Most hunts meet at a local residence and begin at either 2:30 or 3:30 pm.

During the formal season, hunts are followed by a tea. The tea usually takes place at a nearby residence and is graciously sponsored by various club members. A tea can range anywhere from a light snack to a heavyweight meal.

The Capping Fee
Members of the club are not required to pay a capping fee. However, it is customary, for guests (or their hosts) to pay a token sum. These fees should be paid directly to the field master at the start of the hunt.

Arriving at the Meet
Please arrive promptly. Latecomers often have difficulty locating the field once they have moved on.

Informal Morning Walk-outs

If participants are interested in attending informal hunts or morning ‘walk-outs’, they are encouraged to contact us for further information. Informal participation is always welcome and appreciated.

Field Etiquette

The primary responsibility of the field is to spend a lovely afternoon following and observing the hounds and hunt while enjoying the countryside. There are, however, a few points of hunting etiquette, which need to be observed.
beagles-sm-cir
Perhaps one of the most important is the field’s interaction with the hounds. The beagles tend to be of a rather friendly and social nature and may come your way seeking attention. It is best to simply smile and ignore them. If a beagle insists on becoming your best friend or worse, seems to be heading in the wrong direction, please do one of the following:

Look around for a whipper-in and ask them for help redirecting the beagle.

 If there are no staff members present, raise your arms outward and say ‘pack in!’ Do not chase the beagle, as they will probably run the wrong direction.  When in doubt, tell the Field Master.

LANDOWNER’S PROPERTY

As you follow along the hunt, please keep in mind that we are the guests of the landowner(s). If you open a gate to pass through, be sure to close it. If climbing over fences, remain close to a supporting post. Stay to the edge of planted fields and away from gardens. If any property is damaged, inform the field master immediately. Please respect the landowners’ privacy and only enter their land when with the OCHC.

During the formal season, hunts are followed by a Tea.

Please wait to enter the home of the hosts until the hunt is officially complete. General etiquette dictates that the tea is for those who have followed along on the hunt that day. Unless you have received a special invitation by the Master or the hosts please do not attend the tea if you have not gone hunting. Please be considerate of the hosts’ home. Park carefully and mindfully. Please remove muddy shoes and wet attire. Members who regularly attend Sunday hunts are expected to assist in hosting a Tea every second to third season.

Beagle Speak

The person who leads the field over hill and dale following the hounds. Spectators should always follow and adhere to the guidelines set by the Field Marshal.content
Person in charge of hunting the hounds. Carries a horn and is the primary director of the hunt.
Staff member dressed in green hunt coat with gold trim and white pants. They are the eyes and ears for the huntsman, ensuring that the hounds follow along as directed.
Those who come along to follow the hunt.
The recognition bestowed upon members of the hunt and field who have contributed over the years with their time and service. They also wear a green hunt coat with gold trim.
Light to heavy fare following the hunt. Usually held at a member’s residence.
Phrase used when a rabbit is viewed.
Command given by huntsman, staff or Field Master when they wish the field or an individual to stop immediately.
Command given when hounds are pursuing a quarry other than rabbit.

For questions regarding beagling, please contact Nora Tuttle at 518.758.7772 or beaglemembership@oldchathamhuntclub.com