The Annapolis Valley Hunt was established in Nova
Scotia in 1979 by the late Allister Marshall MFH and Mr. John Kersley, and
has distinguished itself as the only fox hunt east of Montreal. Over the
years, regular members have enjoyed a short season of drag hunting from
September through December. We are privileged to hunt across scenic areas
of the Annapolis Valley. Over rolling farmland, through orchards, woods
and sandy beaches, members ride to the cry of hounds, who ultimately
follow the scent of "the drag" to a reward of meat scraps. It is
important to recognize that the AVH is a "drag hunt", and is not involved
with the harming of foxes or any other animals. At the end of the day,
when the hounds are comfortably retired to the kennels, and the horses
cared for, members, social members and guests also relax and gather to
enjoy a meal and reflect back on the days sport...
The Annapolis Valley Hunt is a private non profit
club, which operates under the rules and requirements of the Masters of
Fox Hounds Association (MFHA) of North America. A volunteer
governing board for the AVH has been elected by members of the Annapolis
Valley Hunt and includes three Joint Masters of Fox Hounds, a
Secretary, Treasurer, and hunt staff members (huntsman, field master,
whippers-in) . Our 2006 roster included 18 regular members, 45 social
members and 1 patron members. We plan on adding to these numbers in 2007. The Hunt is sustained by earnings
from member dues, donations, capping fees, breakfast fees, and profits
from fundraisers, such as our Barn Dance, Cross Country Event, and Hunt
Ball, which are pooled together and utilized throughout the year to keep
our foxhounds fed, sheltered and healthy.
How does the AVH Benefit
its Social Members? "Social Membership" is a unique membership offered
by the AVH. Each Sunday during the fall, social members are invited to
follow along in the comfort of their cars, photograph and view
the spectacle of horses and hounds "in pursuit". This is certainly one way
to experience the thrill and tradition of foxhunting without ever actually
riding on a hunt. After a hard day of "hunting", thirsts are quenched, and
lifetime friendships developed, as social members join with members and
guests at the "hunt breakfast" to share a meal and be a part of the fun
and camaraderie of the day. Social members are kept updated about club
activities via an electronic mailing list, where they invited and
encouraged to attend special events such as our formal Hunt Ball, rockin' Barn
Dance, and festive Colors Ceremonies. The next big event on the agenda
will be our Hunt Ball - 2008.
How does the AVH Benefit
from Social Memberships? Let me count the ways! In addition to the
much needed financial support arising from membership dues, many social
members volunteer to work "behind the scenes" at meets, meals,
fundraisers, parties, etc. There is definitely something to that age
old saying, "the more the merrier"! It's true, social members are often
the life of AVH gatherings/parties which ought not be missed! We are
also, however, equally as appreciative and respectful of "silent
supporters" that are unable to attend or simply choose not to participate
in social functions. Regardless of the degree of involvement, every social
member plays an important role in an ongoing awareness campaign. Simply
put, the more people that are exposed to and understand foxhunting, the
brighter the future looks towards ensuring its existence. For over
twenty-five years, foxhunting has provided a strong sense of tradition
and depth to our equine industry here in the Maritimes. Now, we are
getting underway with another season and would be honored to add your name
to our 2007 Social Member roster.
Attached please find
a single application / invoice which can be used for social
member renewals, as well as for new memberships. Please provide any
missing information and mail your completed invoice along with payment to
the address provided. We look forward to hearing from you! For more
information about the AVH, please visit our website at
www.annapolisvalleyhunt.org or email me at
horses@ns.sympatico.ca
Sincerely,
Jeannine DeLuca
