Rain or Shine

Lull Brook Farm

Reeves Road

Hartland, Vermont

Hunting & Hacking Divisions

Registration between 9:00-10:30 a.m.

Hot lunch provided

Enjoy 10 miles of hunt country Contact:

Teams of 2 or more Barbara Gerstner

Choose your pace – hunt or hack 802/484-3747

ENTRY FORMS

What is a Hunter Pace?

A Hunter Pace is a timed ride on horseback, over a designated course, clearly marked, usually 6 to 11 miles in length, normally ridden by teams of two, who attempt to match their finish time with that set by a knowledgeable pace team. Usually Hunter Paces pin the ten riders who come closest to this optimal time.

The optimal hunting time has traditionally been set by the Huntsman or Master of the local foxhound club, who traverse the course “as if they were riding to hounds.” Since a foxhound pack is never hunted at a full gallop, but must be cast into a variety covers, participants in the pace are encouraged to ride the trails with common sense, walking the tougher terrain, cantering where it appears reasonable, and galloping the open stretches of field. Many Hunter Paces include both a Hunting Division, in which the bolder riders compete, and a Hacking Division, which appeals to trail riders who want to enjoy the trails at a slower pace.

Usually a luncheon is provided, and the winners are pinned after the last team finishes. Some Hunter Paces award a ribbon to the youngest and oldest rider who complete the pace, the stable whose riders have come closest to the time, some even have costumed riders competing. Most hunter paces today welcome both Western and English riders.

Hunter Paces are held in spring and fall when the ground offers reasonably good footing, and when the weather cooperates. Most, but not all announce rain dates.

Paces today offer pre-registration since many of them fill up quickly because of their wide appeal. Hunter Paces have become a major fund raising and social event for riders who love the beauty of traversing the countryside on horseback. You are guaranteed a day of lively fun and you may even bring home a ribbon!