Founded
in 2004 by one or two radical members, this splinter faction of the AVH
known as the "Tuesday Night Hunt" gathers weekly to exercise hounds before and
during formal hunt season. The Tuesday Night Hunt is a mock hunt of
which members don't take themselves too seriously. They do however,
take the training and fitness of our hounds very seriously. Why not
just call it a group that gathers to exercise the hounds? I don't
know. I guess, having a "Tuesday Night
Hunt" is just more fun.
Despite its
name, "The Tuesday Night Hunt" meets to exercise hounds on any given day of the week,
except Tuesday. It was coined the "TNH" simply to
aggravate one of its keenest members Gerry Johnston, who much to his
dismay, couldn't make it out on Tuesdays due to band practice. Gerry
would like it known, that he is of no relation to Paul. Paul
Johnston and Brad MacQuarrie now "joint masters" were part of the
infamous founding
Tuesday Night Hunt in 2004 which took place entirely on foot,
covered about 3 acres, and hunted six eight-week old hound puppies. The pups have since matured
into well trained beautiful foxhounds, and now a horse and tracking
collars are required. From what the
author has experienced, one is considered a member of the TNH after approximately two outings with this loose knit
group. Regulations may have since become more stringent? There are
no dues or capping fees but one may be required to purchase premium
beer for joint masters at the TNH breakfast which usually takes
place at a Kentville pub. Hunt Colors of the Johnston & MacQuarrie tartans
were awarded at last years end of the year ceremony which took place
at Paddy's Pub.
On a more
serious note, hound exercises commence several times each week
between formal hunt days. Our huntsman and whippers-in take turns
leading the exercises. Members and their guests are encouraged to
come help out with with these time consuming but all important
tasks. This
is a good way to keep horses fit for hunt season, and the extra hands to help with the hounds
are always appreciated. The
hound exercise is basically a light hack, mostly walking,
trotting and a little cantering. Completely informal, no dress code
or capping fee. There are usually anywhere from 2-6 people out on a
hound exercise with up to 10 couples of hounds. Exercises leave from the
kennels at South Rawdon and generally go for 1-2
hours. There are a lot of young green hound pups, so we must ask for
"sensible" horses that are unlikely to kick (especially our hounds).
Hounds go out several times a week, the pace is fairly relaxed.
