Route Hunt Meet At Ballyhacket
Nicole O’Loughlin on Ted clearing the hedge
On Saturday 7th February 2015, Route hunt members and visitors met at Ballyhacket primary school for their weekly hunt. For many members this was their first visit to Ballyhacket as it has been several years since The Route has hunted at Ballyhacket but for a few it was a return to familiar ground. The hunt
left at 12 noon and headed towards Ballyhacket viewing point in glorious sunshine. There was a pause along the way to take in the amazing view over the surrounding countryside before heading across the hillside.There was then a decent into a small stream before the first ditch of the day.
Mike Alcorn on Lou clearing the wall
For some the ditch proved a bit tricky and they parted company with their horses but despite being rather muddy they remounted and carried on. The weather turned, with mist and drizzle making it impossible to see the countryside. This did not deter the hunt as they continued on jumping several hedges, a couple
of walls and numerous ditches. Throughout the day the hounds had picked up scent and set off but they returned without anything. There had been a few fallers throughout the day but the landings were soft so despite being rather muddy no one was too concerned. After 3 ½ hours all were happy to head back to their boxes for a well earned rest.
Hunt Master Philip White clearing the hedge
Once again thanks goes to those who organised the meet and to all the farmers and landowners who gave the hunt the use of their land. Without the co-operation of these people it would be impossible to exercise the Route Hunt horses over such wonderful
countryside.
The next hunt is at 12 noon on Saturday 14th February .The organisers hope to see a good turnout of members and visitors and welcome anyone who wishes to follow the hunt on foot. The next Saturday, 21st February , the annual Route Equestrian Ball takes place in the Lodge Hotel, Coleraine. This is open to anyone who wishes to attend and
this year the hunt is supporting Northern Ireland Chest Heart And Stroke. For further details and tickets contact Norma Wilkinson on 02870344848.
-
- Stopping for look at the view
-
- Rachel Kelly on Micky clearing the wall
-
- Nicole O’Loughlin on Ted clearing the hedge
-
- Mike Alcorn on Lou clearing the wall
-
- Lauren McAlonan taking a rest against Micky
-
- Hunt Master Philip White clearing the hedge
-
- Florence Campbell on Diamond in flight over the ditch
-
- Emma Louise Murray on Paddy in flight over the ditch
-
- Campbell Smith on Dan clearing the hedge
-
- Brendan Gormley Clearing the wall
-
- Brendan Doherty in flight over the ditch
