"Opening Meet at Belle Meade is an exquisite combination of the glory that was Greece, the grandeur that was Rome, and the excitement of a Confederate Calvary's charge. It is an experience in which you participate mind, body, and soul." - Epp Wilson, MFH
The Masters, Hunt Staff, and Members of Belle Meade Hunt invite you to join us for our 46th annual opening meet. We want you to love foxhunting and appreciate the special place it holds in each of our member's hearts. Each year we host the "World's largest opening meet" during which we share with you a little bit about Belle Meade and offer the opportunity for our visitors to experience the horses, the hounds, the fox, our beautiful hunt country and the fellowship.
The Belle Meade Hunt Opening Meet is one of the most popular events in Georgia and the largest Opening Meet in the world. Many of our patrons return each year. Invitations are extremely limited so please
Date: Saturday, November 5, 2011
Tickets: Tickets must be purchased in advance by invitation only.
(Note: Guests who wish to participate in the hunt must wear proper formal attire, pay appropriate capping fees, provide proof of coggins and sign a release form – for more details on requirements for riders click here)
An unforgettable tradition. If you have ever wanted to see an old English-themed fox hunt, this is your opportunity. Ride a Tally Ho Wagon through historic sites and beautiful rolling countryside, following scarlet-coated hunters and well-trained hounds on a simulated fox hunt, while enjoying a tailgating party like no other. Imagine a luxurious afternoon hay ride for adults, watching horses and hounds 'give chase' through the countryside. Enjoy the amazing Belle Meade hunt country, mingle with the riders at Champagne Hill, watch the sun set on the leisurely ride back to the barn, and enjoy a barbeque dinner before heading back to the big city. (You must be at 21 or older to ride the Tally Ho Wagon)
Dress: This activity will be entirely outdoors, please dress in comfortable business casual. The hunt will go out, rain or shine, please be prepared with appropriate outerwear.
What to Bring: Tally Ho Wagon riders traditionally pack baskets of snacks and beverages to share with friends and hunters.
Age Limit: Tally Ho Wagon riders must be at least 21 years of age.
Events:
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Hunt Breakfast – Boots Hall – Belle Meade Hunt Club
1:00 p.m. Blessing of the Hounds – Larry Knox Country House
3:30 p.m. Champagne Stirrup Cup – Deep in Hunt Country
5:00 p.m. Barbeque Dinner – Boots Hall
Local Lodging: There are numerous hotels available within 30 minutes of Belle Meade Hunt, in the Augusta, Ga area. We recommend the White Columns Inn for visitors who wish to stay overnight in McDuffie county
Directions to Belle Meade Hunt: From I-20 take exit 172 (Washington Road) towards Washington. Turn left onto Knox-Rivers Road as you pass the nursery. Turn right onto Wrightsboro Road. Turn left onto Three Points Road and you will see the hunt barn and entrance to Belle Meade Hunt directly in front of you.
If you are visiting us with a horse trailer, please park in the field just to the left of the Belle Meade entrance.