RULES OF HUNTING

Putaruru Press, Volume XXI, Issue 1234, 12 June 1947, Page 1

RULES OF HUNTING

ADVICE TO YOUNG RIDERS Address By Rangitikei Sportsman In view of the great and commendable interest taken in riding and! hunting 'by the young people throughout the district, the following address given by Mr. G. H'amish Wilson, of the Rangitikei Hunt Clulb, will be of particular interest, Mr. Wilson was speaking to a gathering of some 50 members: of young pony clubs at Marten, and his remarks were as follows: “There are some rules and regulations which hunting people are expected to know, tout before referring to them I would like you to understand that a hunt club does not shoot up like a mushroom and run itself. It is the result of hard work and organisation by the master, huntsmen and various committees. The. breeding and care of the hound® are, of course, very important parts of this work, as is also the understanding with the farmers whose country is bunted over. “Experience has shown that some rules and regulations must be made, and if these are not carried out everybody will suffer. Perhaps the first rule to understand is that in the field the master’s word is law, 1 and his orders must be obeyed without' question. “Then you must learn to be careful of the country hunted over and not damage fences, or leave gates open, or ride over crops of young grass. Without the farmers’ generosity in allowing us to hunt over their land no hunting would be possible, and the greatest care must' toe taken to do as little damage as possible. “Avoid all jumping a fence, in one ’’place only, except where rail* are provided, and then await your turn and ride straight. Avoid riding m top of the hounds, and give them plenty of room. Do not attempt to jump a fence until the hounds are well clear of and away from it. “To jump oh a hound is one of the ; worst crimes possible when hunting. Be cardful to remember that: you are not hunting the hare. That is the job of the huntsman, whips and hounds” If the hare is viewed, keep silent; but if the hounds are in doubt, hold up your cap. Watch some experienced member and follow his example. “In compliment to the master, dresls neatly and have your gear in good oirdier, clean and tidy. If net in unifcrm, the correct dress is breeches and Wellington boots or ! gaiters, with stock and cap, or bowler hat. Wellington boots are black riding boot® without tops. “If your horse is not in condition do not attempt to go on when he is tired; a bad fall may be the result. Perhaps I may sum up by saying: Keep your eyes and ears open and your mouth shut.”