The Scarlet Line
The Scarlet Line: A Wellington-Waterloo Hunt Story
A Day In The Hunt
The misty morning hangs low over the rolling farmlands of Wellington County, where tradition and horsemanship run as deep as the county's rich soil. Huntsman Kris adjusts her scarlet hunt coat, her breath visible in the crisp autumn air, scanning the landscape that has hosted many joy-filled, well-attended hunts over the years. Today, they add one more.
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The Wellington-Waterloo Hunt Club is more than an equestrian association—it is a living, breathing community that celebrates an age-old equestrian tradition. Today's drag hunt traces a carefully laid line across nearly 20 kilometers of breathtaking countryside, weaving through farmsteads, woodlots, and sweeping meadows.
Her mount, Gracie, a spirited mare, prances with anticipation. Beside her, Joint Masters Robin and Paul review the day's route, pointing out key landmarks on the hand-drawn map.
"The drag today," Kris explains to the assembled riders, "starts here at Pitcaple Farm, hosted by our dear members Jock and Virginia. It crosses over the fields, into the woods before emerging at the Donkey Sanctuary, and then leads us onto the Forestell land. We have six and a half couple with us today. We count hounds in couples, so that is that is 13 hounds in total."
Forty riders assemble—a mix of seasoned hunters and enthusiastic newcomers, their horses a beautiful tableau of breeds and colors. Every rider is turned out smartly in their hunting attire. It is truly a thing of beauty. The drag hunt is a delicate dance of skill, strategy, and respect for both horse and land.
The artificial scent lines, carefully planned and skillfully laid earlier by the "foxes," Vixens Judy and Katherine, will challenge the hounds’ and riders’ collective skills with their clever as a fox persona. Following the line requires more than mere riding—it demands a deep understanding of terrain, horse, and the subtle art of reading the landscape.
As the huntsman's horn sounds, a ripple of excitement passes through the mounted riders. The hounds surge forward, their melodic baying cutting through the morning silence. Gracie’s ears prick forward, sensing the collective energy of the hunt.
Kris remembers the words of her mentor: "A true hunt is not about the chase, but the connection—between rider, horse, and hound, between landscape and passionate friends enjoying the values of tradition in the present moment."
The hounds' white sterns show above the tall grass as they start to speak, approaching the first jump—a classic post and rail fence bordering an old maple grove. First the hounds go through the fence, and Kris follows closely behind. Gracie and Kris move as one, a fluid motion of muscle and instinct, clearing the obstacle with ease that speaks of countless hours of riding and mutual trust.
Through woodlands and open fields, they ride, following the hounds as they work on the scent. What a sight. That’s why they do it! The drag hunt reveals the stunning vista of Wellington County. Each rider has a story, each horse a personality, united in this timeless ritual that is part sport, part art, all deeply connected with nature. Now in unison, they all write new chapters in their story—new memories to share.
As the hunt concludes back at Pitcaple, the staff, Robin, Paula, Hunter, and Tamara celebrate and cheer as they hear the words, “The hounds are all on! Well done everybody. Thank you!” The sound of cheering riders supports those who made it a successful hunt. Another great hunt for the books.
The riders exchange stories over breakfast, a celebratory drink, and hearty laughter. They aren't just a hunt club—they are a community bound by passion, skill, and deep respect for an equestrian tradition that continues to evolve. A bond only experienced by riding to hounds.
For Kris, and for every rider today, it is never just about following the hounds and the scent; it is about honoring a legacy, celebrating the partnership between human and horse, and writing another chapter in the rich tapestry of Wellington-Waterloo's hunting heritage and the folks who turn up for every adventure. It’s exciting, thrilling, and fun! Making memories and friendships to last a lifetime.
Now the drag hunt season is done for the year. The hounds will continue to train through the winter for the spring until the club mounts up for another season to make more friends and more memories with the Wellington-Waterloo Hunt.
Wellington-Waterloo Hunt
Where lasting friendships begin and the Hunt never ends
12-17-2024