The Foxhunting clinic was a huge success!

On Sunday, September 27, 2026, Clinician Merri Musso, MFH, guided riders and horses as they learned of the timeless traditions, safety protocols, and foundational skills of the hunt field.

Huntsman Martyn Blackmore began the day with a hound walk (on foot), allowing those gathered to witness the connection and love he has for his well-behaved pack of Old English and English foxhounds. To observe his command of this lively, lovely pack of hounds is truly inspiring and joyful to see! Professional Whipper-in Sue Blackmore helps in all aspects of caring for the hounds, whether helping with a new litter of puppies or aiding in keeping the pack together as they walk or hunt. Both of these professionals are generous and gracious as they educate all newcomers in the art of keeping a healthy, safe and eager pack of foxhounds.

Riders up!  After mounting up and allowing horses to meet hounds, riders gathered for a traditional stirrup cup.  Generous hunt members served, (literally at our stirrups), Port, Mimosas, sparkling water, and delicious baked goods. This is a hunt tradition that helps to gird one for the field as it may be hours before they are able to have refreshment again.

Lesson time: Riders then proceeded to have a lesson conducted by Master Merri. Riders rode at the walk, trot, and canter, with some choosing to jump natural obstacles.  At this time field protocol was discussed: spacing, control, and etiquette, as well as how to protect and not obstruct hounds as they work. Huntsman Martyn Blackmore ended this session with a demonstration of the hunting horn calls which alert hounds, staff, and field as to what is transpiring in the field.

The Mock Hunt which followed allowed the riders to experience following the Field Master as they rode through the beautiful woods of the fixture (the property being hunted that day).  We heard the huntsman's horn as his pack denned a fox!  After a stop at the half-way point for refreshment, the field rode out again until we heard the call for, "Going Home." All riders and horses made it safely back to the kennels for a delicious lunch served by member Kris Goeckeritz.

A brief information session with a time for questions and answers led by Master Ed Mitchell and Master Merri Musso was held after lunch.  Board member Natasha Gealey presented the group with a spot on attire demonstration; the tradition and purpose of each item was explained (rather fascinating!) Membership Chair Gina Sybert presented the various levels of membership; there is truly something for everyone - whether as a rider, professional, or non-riding social member.  

Vendors provided a fun chance to shop offering unique hunt and riding themed items. If you would like to connect with any of these vendors, please feel free to email Princess Anne Hunt Masters and we will get the contact information to you.

A kennel tour finished the perfect day with a chance to meet the stars of the hunting show, the Old English and English foxhounds. Truly remarkable hounds blessed with beauty, brains, and stamina.  The new whelping lodge was a particular favorite with a chance to cuddle puppies as a bonus. Again, we are so very fortunate to have Martyn and Sue Blackmore; they are consummate professionals, love the hounds, and are so very gracious to all of us.

Thank you to all who joined us for this Centennial year Foxhunting Clinic. The weather was perfect, the conversation sparkling, and the horses and hounds majestic. 

We hope to see you in the Hunt Field!