It
is surprise to many to discover that the equestrian sport of hunting
has a strong following in South Africa. In fact hunting is one the
oldest equestrian sports in the country. The Cape Hunt dates back
to 1822 and the Rand Hunt held their first meet in 1887.
Local conditions have lead to both of the South African hunts being
drag hunts. This means that the hounds hunt an artificially laid scent,
and no live hunting or kill takes place. Hunting in South Africa has
therefore avoided the controversy faced by hunts overseas. |
What
does this sport offer that makes so many dedicate themselves to it
with such passion? The hunt is non-competitive and this helps to create
a uniquely supportive riding environment. The hunt has a warm and
strong social atmosphere that is steeped in tradition. This not only
provides a little bit of pomp and ceremony but more importantly ensures
smooth running and safety in the field.
Riders of
all skills can enjoy the excitement of hunting. From novice to professionals,
all will find just the right amount of challenge and an extraordinary
amount of interaction with their horses.
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It
is in this environment that a rider can bring on a young horse,
or further develop a top eventer. It is evident that virtually all
horses take to hunting and that they clearly love the thrill of
running with the field. In this situation it can appear as if the
hunt is no more than a bunch of out of control hooligans. However
as with any sport there are rules and a structure created to promote
safety and enjoyment for all.
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A
rider in difficulty will always find that a more experienced hunter
will immediately come to their aid. This creates a supportive principle
of mentoring, which often creates close and lasting friendships.
The Rand
Hunt's season is in summer when the ground is softer and the scent
stays on the ground longer. The Hunt meets every Sunday at 8.00 am
from November through to late March at various venues around Gauteng
although the majority of the hunts, in particular the large feature
hunts meet at Inanda Country Base. Away hunts are also held in Nelspruit,
Nottingham Road and Haenerstburg. The hunting field averages between
30 and 50 riders. Although special days, such as the Opening Meet
and the Boxing Day Hunt, are much larger with over 100 horses in the
field.
The hunts
take place over varied countryside, including a great number of solid
fences of many different designs. A hunt consists of s series of lines,
these being the trail of jackal scent laid by a rider about 10 minutes
ahead of the pack. Generally four to five lines are laid, each being
up to 5 kilometres long and finishing close to water so that the hounds
can refresh themselves before going on to the next line.
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The
ideal horse for hunting is a good sound thoroughbred that is agile
and alert. Galloping across the veld can be hazardous and a good
horse can save many a nasty fall. Jumps encountered on the hunt
are a thrilling moment as they are often taken 3 or 4 abreast. Trust
in the ability of your fellow riders is essential. However jumping
is seldom compulsory as there is normally a hack led by someone
familiar with the territory and who is able to give the riders a
good view of the hounds at work.
For the braver hunters, the main field is led by the Field Master
who, whilst guiding the field as close to the hounds as is safe,
will seek out interesting jumps. A good Field Master will allow
his field an exciting morning's hunt - watching the Huntsmen and
his Whips working with the hounds to seek out the 'jackal'.
For those who prefer not to jump, or just want to take it a little
slower, a hack is led by the hack Master who being familiar with
the territory is able to give the riders a good view of the hounds
at work.
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Riders
of all age groups and differing abilities enjoy hunting. Riders
are offered the opportunity to enjoy riding in beautiful countryside
as well as gaining access to land and jumps in exclusive areas not
normally available.
Every hunt is carefully planned in order to ensure safety for both
horses and riders, whilst creating maximum enjoyment.
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Non-members
joining the hunt pay a cap fee at the meet before the hunt moves
off. Correct hunt dress includes a black or tweed jacket, boot with
a good heel and a hard hat. The dress code is based on safety and
riders who are not kitted out appropriately will not be permitted
to join the hunt.
Many members of the hunt are well known event riders who find the
hunting environment is ideal for developing the confidence, sure
footedness and fitness of their event horses. Even some Polo players
find great enjoyment in following the hunt whilst their colleagues
rest in the off-season. Show jumpers and dressage riders have found
that not only is the hunt a welcome respite from the constraints
and confined environments of show arenas but that it is a great
character builder for the horse. Hunting most often results in a
closer working relationship between rider and horse in all disciplines.
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Family
and friends can enjoy a Sunday in the country as well. There is always
a contingent of vehicles following the hunt, which include the hunt
service vehicles. Their route is also carefully planed in order to
allow the 'car followers' to experience the hounds at work and the
view the action in the field. In this way the hunt can be a shared
experience with non-riding friends. |
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Throughout
the hunt season, the hounds are exercised during the week at the
crack of dawn by the Hunt Servants, being the Masters and Whippers-in
of the Hunt, and are joined by any enthusiastic followers who enjoy
early morning rides.
In winter the hounds are exercised more gently with walkers taking
them out for long strolls across the country. The Sunday walks in
winter are often attended by more domestic dogs and their owners
than the Rand Hunt has hounds.
The thrill and enjoyment of the hunt is proven through the number
of loyal hunt members who have found this sport to be their passion.
It is easy to experience this for yourself and share in the camaraderie
of this integral and important part of the equestrian world. Make
a date to come hunting with the Rand Hunt.
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