Foxhunting with Golden's Bridge Hounds

There is nothing quite like riding to hounds. Combining exhilarating riding, beautiful countryside, centuries-old tradition, and an incredible community of horsemen and women, foxhunting is one of the most rewarding equestrian experiences you can have.

Manhattan Riding Club welcomes Level 3 and above riders to experience hunting with Golden's Bridge Hounds (GBH). Whether it's your first time or you're returning to the hunt field, we'll help guide you through the entire experience—from proper hunt etiquette and attire to what to expect throughout the day.

A Day in the Hunt Field

Your hunting day begins with a designated meet, where riders gather before setting off. Meets are often held in scenic fields or on the private properties of hunt members throughout Westchester and Dutchess Counties.

When you arrive, you'll be greeted by the host we've connected you with for the day, who will introduce you to the Hunt Secretary to complete your cap fee and waiver. Many meets also feature a welcoming breakfast table with coffee, pastries, and light refreshments before riders mount.

At the appointed time, everyone gathers on horseback while the Huntsman shares announcements and the day's plan. With the sound of the hunting horn, the field moves off and the adventure begins.

Following the Hounds

The mounted riders travel behind the Field Master, an experienced guide who leads the field safely through the countryside while following the Huntsman and hounds from an appropriate distance.

One of the most exciting parts of hunting is watching and listening to the hounds work as they search the countryside. The pace of the ride constantly changes—you may spend several minutes quietly walking before suddenly moving into energetic trots, canters, or even a gallop as the field follows the action.

The terrain is wonderfully varied, taking riders across rolling fields, woodland trails, streams, hills, and open country. Natural and man-made fences may appear throughout the route, though many have a way around for riders who prefer not to jump.

Every hunting day is unique, making each outing an exciting new adventure.

The Duration

Most hunts last between two and four hours, depending on the territory and the day's conditions. Riders who wish to finish early are usually able to return before the conclusion of the hunt if needed.

The Social Tradition

Foxhunting is just as much about community as it is about riding.

Following the hunt, riders typically gather for a traditional tailgate, where members and guests share food, drinks, and stories from the day's ride. Some hunt days will also include larger breakfast or luncheon gatherings after the meet, providing a wonderful opportunity to meet fellow riders, ask questions, and become part of a welcoming equestrian community.

Throughout the season, Golden's Bridge Hounds also hosts numerous social events, including opening celebrations, holiday gatherings, fundraising events, and the annual Hunt Ball, making membership a truly special way to become immersed in one of equestrian sport's oldest and most cherished traditions.

WHAT'S INCLUDED

• Horse groomed and tacked upon arrival
• Introduction to the hunt and guidance throughout your first day
• Contact information and meet details prior to the hunt
• Guidance on hunt etiquette, traditions, and what to expect in the field

CAPPING

Please note that, as a non-member, you will be attending the hunt as a guest. We will arrange permission with Golden's Bridge Hounds prior to the event.

Guest riders are required to pay a cap fee directly to the Hunt Secretary upon arrival. Please bring either cash or a check, as most hunts do not accept credit cards.

Guests are allowed to cap up to three times per season, after which riders are generally encouraged to become members if they wish to continue hunting.

HORSES

Our horses are trailered from our Pine Plains training facility and are carefully selected for open-space riding. They are experienced in foxhunting, hunter paces, cross-country schooling, and our riding programs.

We ride a variety of breeds and personalities, from athletic Thoroughbreds to quieter Draft crosses, allowing us to thoughtfully match horses to each rider's experience and confidence level.

SETTING

Golden's Bridge Hounds hunts across some of New York's most beautiful countryside throughout Westchester, Putnam, and Dutchess Counties. Depending on the fixture, riders may travel through rolling farm fields, woodland trails, private estates, land preserves, meadows, streams, and historic hunt country.

No two hunts are ever the same, making every day in the hunt field a unique adventure.

LEVEL

Level 3, 4 & 5

Riders must be comfortable riding independently in open space at all gaits and be approved by Manhattan Riding Club prior to booking.

ATTIRE

Traditional hunt attire is required on most days and is an important part of the foxhunting experience. The dress code varies depending on the time of season and whether the hunt is designated as Informal or Formal.

Informal Attire (Cubbing & Saturdays in North Country)

• Tweed riding coat
• Tweed or canary-colored vest (optional, but commonly worn by members)
• Light, muted-colored collared shirt
• Patterned stock tie
• Beige or tan breeches
• Black or brown tall riding boots
• Black ASTM/SEI-approved riding helmet

Formal Attire (Formal Hunting Season)

• Black hunt coat
• Canary-colored vest
• White collared shirt
• White stock tie
• Beige or tan breeches
• Black tall riding boots
• Black ASTM/SEI-approved riding helmet

If you're joining us for your first hunt, don't worry if you don't have every piece of traditional attire. We're happy to provide guidance on appropriate hunt dress and can help you source or borrow items before your first day in the hunt field.

WHY HUNT WITH MRC?

Whether it's your first hunt or your fiftieth, riding with Manhattan Riding Club makes getting started easy. We help coordinate your horse, explain hunt etiquette, answer your questions, and introduce you to the welcoming Golden's Bridge Hounds community, allowing you to simply arrive and enjoy one of equestrian sport's most thrilling traditions.

LOCATION

Various fixtures throughout Westchester, Putnam, and Dutchess Counties, New York.

Meet locations vary throughout the season and are provided to riders prior to each hunt.