MASTERS
The
Masters supervise the kennels and the breeding and care of the hounds.
They direct all activities of the Huntsman. They, as the name implies,
are the Master from the time the Hunt assembles until he or she dismisses the
Field. The Master’s word is final in all matters relating to hounds and
hunting. The Master leads the Field, giving enough distance to the
huntsman to work with the hounds. This necessitates keeping the Field
behind him or her so as not to interfere with the hounds and close enough for
everyone to see and hear. The Field is aware of this and at all times
stays behind the Master.
The Masters are ultimately responsible for the welfare of the country.
This involves making regular visits to farmers and land owners.
HUNTSMAN
The Huntsman manages the kennels and hunts the hounds. He or she is given every courtesy by the Field to make the job easier. At the Meet and during checks, the riders give the Huntsman and Whippers-in space to collect and gather the pack. Riders do not crowd the hounds or ride between the hounds and the Huntsman. They leave enough room for the Whippers-in to assist the Huntsman.
WHIPPERS-IN
The Huntsman is assisted in the hound control by several Whippers-in. Whippers-in turn the hounds back to the Huntsman, scout and report the movement of the hounds or fox, and encourage the hounds, as required. Only the Huntsman gives orders to the Whippers-in.
THE FIELD SECRETARY
The Field Secretary assists the Hunt Secretary by obtaining signed Release and Waiver of Liability forms and by collecting capping fees and trail license fees where applicable (Indian Hill only). The Field Secretary also maintains records of rider attendance.
THE FIELD
Members of the Field arrive at the Meet properly attired, mounted and ready to move off at the appointed time. Late riders do not attempt to catch up with the Hunt, as this could interfere with hound work. Late comers miss the Hunt.
Each member greets the Masters before
the Hunt begins. This is not only a courtesy but also a necessity
to inform him or her as to who is out. It is important the Field
understands that once the Hunt is underway, only the Master and Whippers-in
speak to the Huntsman. Conversation among members is kept to a minimum
and in a low voice. The joys of hunting are to observe the hounds work, their cry, the sound of the horn, the chase and
viewing the fox. Riders make way for all hounds and Whippers-in. If
hounds are jumping a fence wait until they are well out of the way before you
take the jump and always be cautious of hounds along the trail. It is
inexcusable to injure a hound. If the Field reverses direction, the
riders clear the trail and turn their horses to face the oncoming Huntsman,
Master and riders that follow.
No
one who hunts does anything to jeopardize the goodwill of landowners and
farmers. Constantly be aware that you are a guest on someone else’s
land. Any damage to fences or gates or any temporary repair to same must
be reported to the Master. This ensures livestock will not wander out of
the landowner’s pasture. Stay on the edge of fields to avoid crop damage
and by no means ride on lawns. Do not hesitate to jump off and open a
gate for the Master or Staff. Always wait for a person to remount who has
gotten off to open a gate. Members are discouraged from leaving before
the Hunt has ended; however, if it is necessary, always ask the Master when it
would be appropriate to leave and the best route to take. Be sure hounds
do not follow.
At the Hunt’s end, a thank you to the Master, Huntsman and Whippers-in is
always appreciated.
HILLTOPPERS
Hilltoppers observe the Hunt on foot or on horseback, by going to vantage points and waiting for the Hunt to pass. Routes are used that do not bisect the country to be hunted that day. Hilltoppers are led by a designated Field Master and do not ride with the Field. The Hilltopper group rides at a slower pace than the Hunt. All jumps can be avoided. This is an excellent opportunity for new members, guests and riders with green or unfit horses to experience hunting at a slower, more relaxed pace. The Masters determine who is qualified to hilltop.
Hilltoppers have the responsibility of not turning hounds or in any way interfering with hunting. Hilltoppers introduce themselves to the Masters and Hilltopper’s Field Master before the Hunt. Hilltopping social members and guests on horseback are required to pay normal capping fees. Hilltopper’s guests as well as social members are limited to five hunts per year.
NEW MEMBER AND
JUNIORS
Out of courtesy, new members ride behind established members unless invited to the head of the Field by the Master. Juniors ride behind new members and adult guests unless invited forward by the Master. If an established member does not choose to stay up in the Field, he or she makes way for all others to pass.
THE GUEST—CAPPING FEE
Members seek permission from one of the Masters before bringing out a guest. It is the member’s responsibility to introduce the guest to the Masters at the meet. The member will then ride with his/ her guest in the back of the Field behind established and new members. The guest must sign a Release and Waiver of Liability before the Hunt. Guests who are minors must obtain the signature of both parents on the Release and Waiver of Liability form.
Guest’s (includes social members) capping fees are given to
the Field Secretary before the hounds move off. The fee is in an envelope
with the guest’s and member’s names printed on it. The capping fee for
It is important that a prospective member of the Hunt or occasional guest, if not accompanied by his host, is accompanied by a designated member throughout the Hunt for the purpose of instruction and information. This is arranged before the day of the Hunt.