Overview

Foxhunting in the Pacific Northwest is a thrilling, adrenaline fueled sport enjoyed not only by First Flight riders galloping on the heels of the huntsman and foxhounds but also the Hilltopper riders who enjoy watching all the action from the hilltops in a walk/trot group of friends! Learn about this fascinating sport and the skills, tack, attire, horses and appropriate etiquette for each foxhunting flight. Upon completion, you are invited to join the WHC Shakedown Hunt on Sunday!

We've found the biggest concern for riders interested in hunting is whether their horses will be suitable. Let's find out in a comfortable environment that will introduce horses (and riders) to what to expect during a hunt. This could include waiting in a group for the hounds to be released, riding in a group at various speeds, standing at a check, how close to be to the horse in front, what to do if your horse starts acting up or refuses a jump, or the huntsman and hounds are coming towards you, you tell us your concerns and we'll answer as best we can and simulate what you can expect on a hunt during the mounted clinic.

Our Huntsman Jennifer Hansen has organized a clinic for all levels of interested riders, the speed at which you think you'd like to hunt is the clinic section you should sign up for. We usually try to have three to four flights (speeds) on a hunt.

First Flight that wants to walk, trot, canter, gallop and jump;
Second Flight that wants to walk, trot, canter and jump;
Third Flight that wants to walk, trot, canter but not jump
Hilltoppers that only walk and trot.

All jumps have go-arounds if you change your mind!

The Clinic includes a mounted section and a classroom session where all your questions can be answered by our friendly staff! Each session is limited to 15 riders and horses, and a limited number of lease hunt horses are available for the day of the clinic. There are no lease horses available for Shakedown Hunt the following day.

Attire is informal, wear what is most comfortable for you and your horse, dress for the weather and all disciplines are welcome!

You will need to have an iSportsman permit. You can either purchase the weekly pass or an annual pass. If you choose to purchase the weekly pass, DO NOT purchase it before September 21.

Highlights

Riders will be split into morning and afternoon groups, but beginning rider or riders with green horses should plan to ride in the afternoon session.

Each session will will start in the Hunt Club arena for everyone to warm up and we’ll discuss protocol and review what you need to know before we head out to the trails on our adjoining hunt country. All jumps have go-arounds and are primarily natural jumps like logs.

9:30 am – 11:30 am Morning Session

12:00 pm - Lecture and Lunch -our clubhouse is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and you’ll see lots of our almost 100 year-old history inside! We’ll have examples of correct hunt attire for you and tack for your horse, review hunt protocol, the role of hunt staff, the hounds, and answer all your questions!

1:30-3:30 Afternoon Session

Location

Woodbrook Hunt Club