The Bijou Springs Hunt WCT activities began Tuesday evening 29 Mar, with an outstanding dinner party in the foothills near Castle Rock, Colorado. It was attended by some 84 foxhunters representing twelve Hunts, from eight states and three countries.
The following day, riders met at the Lowry Range, home of the Arapahoe Hunt, for the judged meet. A stirrup cup was served at 8:30 and hounds were off at 9:00 followed by a Field of approximately 50 riders. The Range was alive with wildlife to include plenty of jackrabbits jumping up here and there and antelope everywhere you looked. The coyotes were also plentiful and the first one chased was found within ten minutes of drawing the first covert.
Nearly all of the pursued coyotes attempted to mask their scent by running behind antelope ahead of them. The pack performed beautifully in that not one line of haunch or hare was taken. It seemed that nearly every coyote chased also managed to kick up at least one or two more coyotes, making it even more challenging for the pack to stay on the pursued coyote. The hounds did just that and only once did the Huntsman have to intervene to prevent a split pack. Every attempt to recover lost lines due to the gusting wind or foiled scent was successful.
At least 12 coyotes were viewed during the meet and the selected coyotes provided five very exciting runs, with the longest one lasting over 40 minutes. Although the Staff GPS malfunctioned, the Field clocked 22-1/2 miles over a 3-1/2 hour period.
A hearty breakfast was served after the meet, followed by more hunting, this time behind MB Arie Rijke and his Waldingfield Beagles.
Stirrup cup
Hacking to the first draw
Start of the first run
Tally ho during a break - coyotes everywhere
Catching a breath after the third run
Resting before the fifth run
Judges Betsy and Eleanor
Blowing end of the meet
High spirits after 3 1/2 hours
A hearty breakfast after a great day of hunting !