Ladies Side Saddle Hunt Extravaganza
I met a lady by the name of Susan Oakes in 2008 while working at a hunt and racing stable in Ireland.
I was immediately amazed at not only her talent for riding side saddle, but hunting and jumping in the side saddle. Since then we have kept in contact and I have watched from afar as her profile and popularity has grown immensely in the side saddle discipline.
In 2013 Susan set two world records, jumping in a side saddle 2.07m over a treble bar and 1.98m over the Puissance Wall. That's when I thought I have got to go back to Ireland and learn this amazing skill from the gutsy lady.
In November 2013 I set off on my trip back to Ireland for the Ladies Side Saddle Hunt Extravaganza Weekend. The event was organised by Susan Oakes with the goal of setting a record with the most amount of ladies out hunting aside.
The weekend was based out of the Headfort Arms Hotel in Kells, County Meath. It was action packed, starting on the Friday evening with a ceile night, involving traditional hunting music, dancing, drinking and singing in the local pub.
Saturday was a day of hunting with the Tara Harriers followed by a Hunt Ball on Saturday night.
Sunday involved a bus trip over to Kylebrack in County Galway for another Hunt hosted by the Grallagh Harriers followed by evening drinks back at the hotel
I had only ridden side saddle a few times before I went to Ireland and I had a 10 minute jump lesson the day before the big Hunt. But luckily I have no fear when I am on a horse and I thrive on adrenaline. Plus I had a goal that needed fulfilling so there was no time to back out.
So the big day arrived. A record breaking 61 side saddle ladies arrived at Brittas House Estate in Nobber ready to take on the ditches, drains, hedges and fences.
Our lovely hosts put on a feast and an endless supply of hot port for us to boost our courage or maybe just calm the nerves!
61 Love Thy Horse Magazine