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Good time had by all as newcomers join the hunting fray
Have you ever thought about going hunting but were afraid to try?
More and more hunts are arranging special days for newcomers, among them the Badsworth and Bramham Moor.
After they held an information evening for first-timers in September last year, which explained everything that was involved in a day's hunting, quite a number of people plucked up the courage to try it out.
Diana Thompson was one.
"I was very, very nervous on the morning of the Newcomers' Day," she said. "Autumn is the time when young hounds are introduced to the pack so it seemed somehow appropriate that we would all be newcomers and learn together.
"I kept remembering what I'd heard at the information evening about why people do it – because they enjoy it. So, my mantra for the first few minutes after we set off was – 'I must remember I'm enjoying this' – and, after a while, I suddenly realised I was having a great time.
"Weeks later, I was back at the opening meet and looking very smart – black coat, white stock, my hair in a hairnet and my horse plaited and groomed to within an inch of perfection.
"However, appearances can be deceptive – I had terrible butterflies and the urge to be anywhere but at this meet with riders who all seemed to be very confident and capable.
"I refreshed my memory from the booklet we'd been given, but still felt nervous. Then, after a glass of warm punch, a piece of fruit cake and a welcome from the Field Master, we were off. Nerves were instantly forgotten.
"At first, I went through all the gates until I felt more confident and then started jumping. By 2pm, I was muddy and hot but had decided that hunting was what I was going to do. We had a wonderful day."
Another newcomer, David Croft, added: "What a buzz! Eighty horses, of every size, shape and colour, setting out on a day of adventure. I was really hunting. I realised that the riders split into different groups.
"If you are experienced and have no fear, you ride at the front behind the Field Master and tackle every obstacle in your path.
"Then there was another group going slower, some would jump and others would find a way round the obstacle. I had the best riding day ever."
The Badsworth and Bramham Moor are holding another Newcomers' Day on February 7. For more information, call 07977 627128 or email jj@tomlinson.f9.co.uk.
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Saturday 26 May 2012
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