The Huntsman's Corner

Here is the FIXTURE CARD for the season. Click here

Huntsman's Letter

As we head into 2020, who would have thought back in 1984, that we would still be all together, with our 10th generation of foxhounds, and third lovely territory? I am grateful for the opportunity to have learned so much about the nature of the hunting hound and his quarry, the different personalities of these animals, and the deep respect for the life of the wild side that has come with years of observing and soaking in the nature around me. As the urban corridor deepens and the evolution of our society has become less tolerant of rural lifestyles, we must be ever vigilant to the threats to the countryside we love. The thrill of the sound of the hounds in full cry is hard to describe to folks who have rarely been out of the city. But those of us who have, come back time and time again, on the chance that we will, once again, experience that spine-tingling rush. Horses and hounds allow, if just a short time, the world around to drop away, in favor of the minute, the sounds, and freedom.

I must also, at this point, post a tribute to Bob Knox, whose passing has left me bereft of the anchor that kept me secure in my exploration of hounds and hunting. He never hesitated to share his knowledge and acumen about foxhounds, coyotes and territory, long before he came home to Bijou Springs. I miss his counsel and quiet wisdom, I will ever be in his debt.

Our hounds are doing very well at providing us great sport when the weather has allowed it, and to that end, please offer to sponsor a hound in the pack. The newbies are promising to fill in the blanks as the elders slow down and are doing so admirably. Check out our Facebook page, as Dr. Kelly is doing a great job familiarizing everyone with our hounds. The pack list has been filed with the MFHA for this season; so we are "on the books". Thank you, too, for the generous bonus you have provided for our kennelsperson, Katherine, who has gone over and above in this cold icy fall weather. Chopping ice out of the runs after four days of constant negative weather, and hounds solidifying ice in their runs is simply no fun. Here is hoping that the cold weather has run its course, and while snow (in moderation) is terrific, the below freezing windchills are not.

Tally Ho!

NANCY MITCHELL

Our Guest Hunt - Dec. 2019