Has anyone ever hunter paced or fox hunted? Can you tell me what it's like? I'd like to go on a drag or mock hunt. I don't want to do a real hunt, but my friends tell me that hunter pacing is a lot like a mock hunt. Can anyone explain what to expect?

Let me say first that things may have changed since my day, but this is what I used to do.

Hunter pace: Usually a team of two riders goes out into a cross country type of course. But the jumps start out easy, and as they get more difficult, the way around them gets bigger. I'm told that at most, you can go out and ride the pace but never have to jump anything. Time is kept and you can be awarded ribbons based on the time. I'm told that the master of hounds goes out first, is timed, and closest to him/her pins. Not sure if that's always the case.

Fox hunting: my friend did it and was scared for life as she was the newest rider and was "blooded" with the blood of the fox. Being a vegetarian, it really upset her. I don't know if she didn't expect them to catch a fox or if she thought it was a mock hunt and it wasn't...don't know.

Mock hunt/drag scent hunt: In a drag scent hunt, before the huntsmen go out, someone rides out over the course dragging the scent bag that the beagles will follow. I've done this, it was fun, but I kept panicking and hoping the beagles wouldn't find the trail of a real fox. Mock/drag hunting with the dogs really feels amazing with the beagles braying and the horses all tuned up.

Mock hunt without drag and without dogs: Less stress for me and more like going on a hunter pace with lots of huntsmen with you. Can be great fun with camaraderie. Some hunts can be a little crazy and dangerous with flat out galloping, so you need to check into the hunt's reputation first.

If you've never done any, a hunter pace is the first to try to get your feet wet.

Hunting is a blast. Do you know the hunt club you will be hunting with? You will need to go as a sponsored guest. Some hunt clubs are more private and not as welcoming as others. If they have a web site, you can probably contact a staff member. I'm sure someone will be happy to help you. I know our local club is always looking for new qualified (good rider/safe horse) members.

Your horse needs to be fit to hunt. The later in the season, the longer the hunt will be. If you haven't been trotting and galloping multiple miles, I would advise not to hunt until your horse is fit. You can probably get your horse fit in 6 to 8 weeks of work. If your horse is not fit, you run the risk of injury to both you and your horse. A drag hunt is usually fast and very fun.

Your horse needs to be GREAT on the trail with a group at WTCG. Quiet, obedient. You need to be able to jump outside quietly.

The best way to get your horse accustomed to the hounds is to offer to work hounds with the group (if the hunt does that). You'll go informal and exercise the hounds. That way you can judge how your horse will behave at slower speeds (usually just trotting). Our hunt would then go on a fun trail ride through hunt country after the hounds were put away.

For a hunt, there is some etiquette you'll need to know, such as staying at the back of the hunt, since you are not a member. Dress formally and conservatively - dark coat, beige breeches, white shirt with stock tie. Everything should be clean - like you're going to a show. You'll need to keep a low profile and keep your horse in good control. Don't pass anyone with colors (on their hunt coat lapel). If you do well they may ask you to join. It is great fun.

Good luck and tally ho!