What is Roading?
Also known as hound exercise, roading is the precursor to the hunting season. We “road” the hounds several days a week, usually on dirt roads, to get the hounds, horses (and humans!) fit for the coming season. The huntsman and hunt staff will guide the pack of hounds at a slow mounted pace, with riders following along behind. In addition to fitness, roading is also an opportunity for the hunt staff to introduce young hounds to working in a group. This part of the season begins in early May and runs through mid-June. Roading season is an ideal time to introduce new horses and riders to riding in a group. The controlled environment, slow pace, and the low stakes make roading a good way for newcomers and seasoned fox hunters alike. Please consider joining us this spring.
Classic Roading:
Roading is free of charge for all. Guests/non-members are welcome and encouraged to come.Thursday and Sunday mornings in May. Please check our website or social media post for each day's location and time. Updates (weather, venue or time) will be shared via email and Facebook.
What to expect!
Riders will follow behind the huntsman and hounds at a walk and trot on the dirt roads
Duration will increase as time progresses (approximately 1-hour), beginning with a short trot and increasing to ~4 mile trot around 'the block'
Around the start of June, hounds will be cast into the roadside fields for a very short hunt.
Riders will remain on the dirt roads at a walk and trot.
Commonly Used Terms
Couple: Foxhounds may coupled together (attached by leather collars) by twos for training purposes. Fox hounds are always counted by twos known as a couple.
Override: To ride too close to the hounds.
Pocket: A member of the Field is guilty of riding “in the Huntsman’s pocket” when they continually get so close as to interfere with the hounds.
Forward Reverse Field: When the field needs to go in the opposite direction. When the command is issued, the field must simultaneously walk forward and turn in a U-turn fashion, to ensure safety of horse and rider.
Reverse Field: Riders should pull off the trail, turn their horse’s head to face the trail, and let the Field Master pass. A similar protocol may be required when making way for staff or a different field: riders pull off the trail, facing their horses heads in the direction of the trail and then moving off again in order when indicated by the Field Master.
Getting ready for the day
Each rider must sign a GMH Release before participating and provide proof of negative Coggins and rabies vaccine
Attire is casual and tidy: Any tack (english, western dressage), suitable riding clothes for the weather, boots, and approved helmets
Plan enough time to arrive and be mounted promptly at the advertised departure time
GMH will have seasoned members participating for support and guidance along the way
Potluck tailgates to follow as parking and weather permits on Thursdays and Sundays.