Hounds and horses at hunter trials

Amenia — The Millbrook Hunt Hunter Trials took place this past Sunday, Sept. 25, at Coole Park Farm in Amenia. The trials, an annual tradition for the hunt,precede the opening meet and give participants the opportunity to revel in the joys of foxhunting in a show setting.For riders who enjoy jumping obstacles or for those who like to showcase their horsemanship, there were offerings for every level of rider, from the smallest pony and the youngest child to the large and bold hunter and seasoned veteran rider.The day’s events included a dog handling contest and a luncheon to honor the landowners, whose generosity is so central to the success of the Millbrook Hunt. More than 70 people competed in 16 classes; most of them were Millbrook Hunt members. The classes include solo efforts and riding in a group that simulated following a field master around a course.During the luncheon, the Millbrook Hunt Masters, the huntsman, whippers-in and hounds paraded around the course and jumped many of the jumps in a simulation of a chase.