In addition to mounted hunting, the Iroquois Hunt offers events throughout the off-season, including hound walks, trail rides, clinics, a hound show, a hunter pace, and a KHJA-sanctioned horse show. There is something on the calendar from April through September for riders and non-riders alike.
Additionally, the “off season” includes trail rides, hound walks and foxhunting clinics, which cover the basics of riding to hounds in the field, including cross-country terrain, water crossings, gates, and riding among cattle.
Blessing of the Hounds
Each year on the first Saturday in November, the Iroquois Hunt gathers on the lawn of the historic Mill at Grimes Mill for the Blessing of the Hounds, one of foxhunting’s most enduring traditions. Officiated by Episcopal clergy, the ceremony marks the formal opening of the hunting season with a blessing upon the hounds, the horses, and the riders.
The Blessing is open to the public and offers a glimpse into the pageantry and tradition of the sport. The riders assemble with their horses, the hunt staff is in formal livery, and the hounds are gathered around the huntsman. Following the ceremony, a stirrup cup is raised and the field moves off for the Opening Meet, sending the season underway in the manner it has been done for generations.
This time-honored custom connects the sport to centuries of tradition. It is a reminder for everyone of the essence of fox hunting: the relationship between horse and rider, the hounds, and the land they cross together.
Hunter Pace
Each spring, as the hunting season draws to a close, the Iroquois Hunt hosts its annual Hunter Pace — a low-key competitive event open to members and the public alike and a favorite way to experience the beauty of the Iroquois hunt country on horseback.
Teams of two to four riders follow a marked course through the rolling fields of our fixtures, riding toward an undisclosed optimum time set by the organizers. The team in each division whose time comes closest to that optimum time wins, meaning that the art of judging the pace is most important.
Three divisions accommodate riders of all experience levels. First Flight offers a forward pace with jumping efforts throughout the course. Second Flight moves at a working pace with gates and optional jumps. Third Flight follows a shortened course at a walk and trot. All divisions may encounter shallow water crossings and fields with cattle, adding an authentic taste of the hunt field to the day.
Ribbons are awarded through sixth place in each division, with additional recognition for Best Turned Out Team, Best Turned Out Junior, Best Costume, and Best Tailgate. Trophies and additional prizes round out the awards.
More than a competition, the Hunter Pace is simply a wonderful way to spend a spring day in good company, over some of the finest riding country in central Kentucky.
Puppy Show
A fun event held in mid-May where young foxhounds are judged by experienced huntsmen on their conformation and breeding. Some 10 hunts from the Midwest District including clubs from Kentucky, Tennessee, and Illinois participate. It is a great warm up opportunity before the prestigious Virginia Hound Show.
Summer Houndwalks
Summer Hound Walks offer members and their guests a relaxed opportunity to spend time with the hounds during the off-season. Held on foot or on horseback depending on the day and at the direction of the Masters, these informal outings serve an important purpose beyond their easy pace. Keeping the pack fit, conditioned, and moving well together is essential preparation for the season ahead.
The walks give the huntsman a valuable opportunity to assess individual hounds in an informal setting. They are also one of the best ways to come to know the hounds as individuals, a tradition that serious foxhunters have long considered central to the sport. Whether you are new to the field or a longtime member, the Summer Hound Walk is a rewarding way to stay connected to the hounds, to the country, and to one another.
Day in the Country Horse Show & BBQ
Held in mid-September this day includes a KHJA-sanctioned hunter show and BBQ with tailgating, children’s play area, and a Parade of Hounds.
