HUNT - A "mock" fox hunt is a simulated hunt over a prearranged course. Ours is over our land & approximately 10 neighboring lands. The purpose of our hunt is to acquaint the novice rider or horse with the wonderful sport of fox hunting. We do not chase live fox, but we may be fortunate to see one. The thrill is in the chase.
JUMPS - Those found in traditional hunts. Post & rail, coops, logs, fallen trees, telephone poles, etc. are all very inviting jumps. Max. ht is 2'6". There will be a way around all obstacles for non-jumpers. Riders may not jump anything without permission.
DRESS - Boots & approved helmets are a must for all riders. They may be rented from the school. Proper hunting attire is encouraged but not mandatory. Traditional English show attire is very acceptable. Do not wear red. Braiding is not necessary.
PACE - It will start out slow & will increase in pace. The object of the hunt is to conserve energy to have stamina to last until the end.
GROOMS - The hunt will not stop for fallen riders. Therefore, each beginner rider MUST have a groom in attendance for safety in the event of an emergency. The groom is to be with the hunt for the duration. All riders are also encouraged to have a groom.
TIME - Riders should plan to arrive at least one hour prior to hunt departure. See hunt secretary immediately for paperwork. Horses should be warmed up before the first run. The hunt will last 2 or more hours. There will be several checks (rest periods). All riders are expected to stay until the very end of the hunt & to attend the tea. Leaving early is considered a grave discourtesy to the staff.
RULES - The hunt will follow proper fox hunting traditions & rules. Riders will be given a briefing prior to departure. Rules are for the safety of all.
VOLUNTEERS - It is customary in most hunts to call upon friends, parents, grooms & other non-riders to assist with the day's activities as it takes a great effort to stage a hunt. Volunteers may be called upon to catch loose horses, assist fallen riders, direct traffic, open & close gates, set up the tea, clean up, etc. Any & all help is welcome.
TEA - A tea is a party customarily held after the hunt. "Leaping elixirs" and sometimes even tea is served. It is
customary for each rider to bring a plate of sandwiches to the tea. The tea can be the best part of the hunt. It is where hungry riders retell the excitement of the hunt over & over, each time with greater enthusiasm. The fences seem to get higher with each retelling & each sip. Tally-Ho! The Abrams will host the tea in the school's classroom. Riders are expected to be at the tea within 15 minutes of end of the hunt. Please do not dawdle. Videotapes of the hunt will be shows at the tea.
COGGINS - Each horse needs a negative coggins to enter the farm. Show it at to the secretary at least 1 hour to hunt departure to secretary.
RELEASE - Each rider must have a signed sports release l hour prior to departure. Parents MUST sign for junior riders on hunt day or by jprior arrangement.
HILLTOPPERS - Spectators or "hilltoppers" are always welcome. A Tally-Ho hay wagon will follow the hunt for them to ride in. They are to stay together & be quiet when the hunt passes. Fee for wagon: $10 adults, $5 kids. One free groom per rider. Coolers are welcome.
CAPPING FEE - $35 per rider per hunt if received prior to day before hunt. $10 post entry fee thereafter.
LANDOWNERS - It is only with the generosity of landowners that we are fortunate enough to hunt. Landowners, when encountered, are to be thanked & given the utmost courtesy.
HORSE RENTAL FEE - By private treaty.
RESERVATIONS - Make checks payable to Pegasus Riding School Inc. Mail to: 392 Philip Weldon Rd., Milner, GA 30257. Include name, address, phone.
INFO - pegride@bellsouth.net or 770-228-3865
FOX HUNTING RULES
1. Have yourself & horse in condition.
2. Arrive promptly. Attend to payment & paperwork asap.
3. Do not chew gum, smoke, talk loudly or unnecessarily.
4. Unruly horses or kickers should be in the back. Red ribbon on kickers.
5. Never pass the Master or any staff.
6. Ride in the same place in the hunt line unless told otherwise.
7. Don't tailgate the horse ahead; don't lag behind.
8. Alert riders of danger by saying "'ware" or "beware" hole, glass, etc. Be sure to pass it on behind you.
9. To turn around in a tight trail, just follow the leader.
10. Staff has the right of way at all times. Never turn your horses heels to them.
11. If you are injured & must withdraw, be sure to tell staff.
12. At the end of the hunt ceremony, be sure to thank the staff for a good day's hunting.
13. This is a cooperati