Those early season nerves at the meet are all too familiar… As is the moment you look across to see someone a sixth of your age and a quarter of your size, on a pony with barely-there legs merrily enjoying the occassion.
And then there is that heart-sinking moment when your 16.1hh “experienced hunter” is turning himself inside out at an insignificant set of rails, and that pony you spotted earlier sails over in front of you.
All hail for the budding thrusters of the future — they certainly know how to put us in our place…
Oliver Gillman
All the gear: four-year-old Oliver Gillman and his 26-year-old pony Tuffty enjoying their first day hunting with the Blackmore and Sparkford Vale last season.
Martha German
Fine style: Martha German shows the field how it’s done with her smart dun pony.
Livvia Krajnyk
Six-year-old Livvia Krajnyk gears up for a day out on Belchford Gwenno.
Continued below…
9 photos that are sure to get you excited for the hunting season
If you weren't excited enough already, we've dug out nine photos of followers and hunt staff on flying form with
Kathleen Curtin and Isobel Curtin
Sister act: Kathleen Curtin on Milly and Isobel Curtin on Freddy wait for the County Clare Hunt to arrive in Kilmihil, Co Clare, with with their grandfather Pat Curtin.
Holly and Seth
Worthy of a pairs’ competition: Holly and her best friend Seth, both two, on their ponies Star and Bart at the Chatsworth House meet with the Barlow Hunt.
Freddie Shutler
Freddie Shutler’s legs might not quite reach the bottom of the saddle flap, but he looks ready to get out autumn hunting with the Kimblewick.
Molly Oman
Bad hair day? Molly Oman’s pony’s mane is certainly not holding them back… Look out for mention of Henry the super hunting pony in the feature about marvellous hunting ponies in H&H’s hunting special issue, on sale from 22 October.
Sasha Lawes
Mud, mud, glorious… Sasha Lawes would have been frantically searching for the vanish after her day out with the Chiddingfold, Leconfield and Cowdray last season, however it hasn’t deterred her and she is all set for the season ahead.
