Sat, Nov 08
|Garner Ranch
2025 SFH Opening Hunt
Our formal hunting season officially begins with Opening Hunt and the Blessing of The Hounds. Stirrup Cup at 9:15am, Blessing Of The Hounds at 9:45am, Hounds Move Off at 10:00am. Horses should be braided.
Time & Location
Nov 08, 2025, 9:15 AM – 3:00 PM
Garner Ranch, Mountain Center, CA 92561, USA
About the Event
Join us for the pageantry and tradition of the Santa Fe Hounds' Opening Hunt!
This occasion marks the start of our formal foxhunting season. Everyone is dressed in their finest hunting attire, our horses are braided and most likely clipped, and everyone is ready to celebrate the start of a new season in style! The day begins with arrival at Garner Ranch and a festive stirrup cup before riders mount up.
The annual Blessing of the Hounds follows - a tradition that goes all the way back to 8th Century France, when St. Hubert, the patron saint of hunters, first petitioned for God's favor for horses and hounds.
Then, we're off! Our MFH Terry Paine will lead the pack, hoping the quarry will favor us by giving us all a good chase.
Non-riding visitors are also welcome to come out, watch, and join us for a catered lunch after hunting.
Non-members…
