THE HUNT STAFF

Through the daily care of the hounds, the Huntsman develops a deep bond with the hounds. Using this bond and a deep knowledge of each hound’s strengths, the Huntsman directs the hounds to seek out the quarry.

Whippers-In keep our hounds safe by riding ahead of them and, using their experience with the past habits of the quarry, seek to stop the hounds from leaving the territory we have permission to hunt. Should the hounds chase the fox out of territory, they and the Huntsman may exercise the “right to retrieve.” This is a long-standing law in Virginia that allows staff to stop the hounds and bring them back.

Wheel Whips perform a similar task to the whipper-in, except that they follow in a vehicle. They stay in touch with the Huntsman and Whipper-In by way of radio and GPS devices that allow the tracking of the hounds. Wheel whips stay to the roads and farm lanes and even provide a hound who has gone too far afield a ride back to the pack.

Flight Leaders are members of the hunt staff responsible for leading and assisting a designated flight of mounted followers in the field. They help maintain the pace and organization of their flight, communicate instructions, and assist riders in safely following the hunt.