Our formal hunting season officially begins with Opening Hunt and the Blessing of the Hounds. Riders and non-riding visitors alike are welcome.
Join us for the pageantry and tradition of the Santa Fe Hounds' Opening Hunt.
This occasion marks the start of our formal foxhunting season. Everyone is dressed in their finest hunting attire, our horses are braided and most likely clipped, and everyone is ready to celebrate the start of a new season in style. The day begins with arrival at Garner Ranch and a festive stirrup cup before riders mount up.
The annual Blessing of the Hounds follows — a tradition that goes all the way back to 8th century France, when St. Hubert, the patron saint of hunters, first petitioned for God's favor for horses and hounds.
Then we're off. Our MFH Terry Paine will lead the pack, hoping the quarry will favor us by giving us all a good chase.
Non-riding visitors are also welcome to come out, watch, and join us for a catered lunch after hunting.
Arrive, greet the field, and take a cup before mounting up.
The blessing of horses, hounds, and field — the ceremony that opens the season.
The pack moves off behind our MFH, and the season is underway.
Horses should be braided. Please plan your arrival so you are mounted and ready well before the stirrup cup.
Riders under 18 pay the junior rate whether or not they are members, and US Pony Club members are welcome at the same rate. The adult non-member rate includes a day membership, so there is no separate capping fee to pay on the day. Non-riding guests pay for lunch only — the $10 ranch fee applies to riders.
Non-members will need to complete a digital waiver before riding.
Got questions? Contact us, email santafehounds@gmail.com, or call (951) 428-4265.
Braid up, dress in your best, and join us at Garner Ranch for the stirrup cup, the blessing, and the first hunt of the season.
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