West Wycombe 25th Feb 2007

After our meet was cancelled due to waterlogged ground some of the members of the SC&RMAS Draghunt took a trip up the M4 to the Dashwood Arms, West Wycombe. The weather forecast was wet so we packed a change of clothes.  We rushed like crazy, as we thought we were going to be late but made it in good time and waited graciously for the off. We watched hounds hunt well on the start of the first line and a long pull up the grass covered hill took the wind out of a few pulling horses sails, enabling most to take in the hedge and timber.  One unfortunate gentleman faller discovered first hand just how soft it was under foot, but quickly remounted, only to fall off again at the first jump of the third line into a wet muddy puddle! An expensive dry cleaning bill! Most of us were speckled with mud by now but the smiling faces said it all.  The rain did start to come down but horses and riders alike were enjoying the good galloping and jumping too much to be fazed. The foot followers had as much fun driving around the countryside in 4x4’s and were able to watch most of the field take on some inviting hedges towards the end of the third line. I had a moment of panic as we hacked down to the last line.  As we crossed the road a river was in front of us.  Not a problem for most but as many of the Sandhurst will know, Declan, my horse is partial to lying down in water.  Doesn’t even have to be  river, he has been known to lie down in a muddy puddle with me balancing on top!  My fears were short lived as we cantered alongside the river and over the hill back towards the pub.

Thanks from all the SC&RMA Draghunt for a great day.

Many thanks to Beccie van Oostrum from the Sandhurst for this weeks report and pictures.