The community is invited to attend and enjoy the historic 87th opening of the Tryon Hounds’ formal hunt season.

The Tryon Hounds, the area’s oldest hunt will have its annual Blessing of the Hounds on Thanksgiving Day at 10 a.m. at Thanksgiving Hill on Jackson Grove Road in Landrum.

The public is invited to attend the ceremony, which is rich in tradition and represents the formal start to the fox hunting season. This year, the Reverend Micky Mugan will bless the hounds.

The riding members of the hunt will be dressed in formal hunting attire.

“The Tryon Hounds Blessing of the Hounds is an old local tradition that dates back to the 1920s,” said Bonnie Lingerfelt, Master of Foxhounds “ It is a spectacular scene of crisp fall colors against the backdrop of the mountains with the men in their Scarlett coats and ladies in their formal black riding habits and the horses braided and ready for opening meet.”

Under the care of Tryon Hounds Huntsman Jordan Hicks, The Reverend Mugan  will bless 28 American foxhounds that are part of the Tryon Hounds pack.

The members of the Tryon Hounds Social Committee will serve hot chocolate for kids and there will be a ceremonial champagne toast for the riding members of the hunt. Tryon Hounds calendars will also be for sale at the event.

In 1935, the Tryon Hounds was recognized by the Masters of Foxhounds Association and today enjoys an active and enthusiastic membership of riding and non-riding members that volunteer countless hours to various community projects.

Foxhunting is the cornerstone of the area’s equestrian heritage and helps to protect the rural charm and rustic beauty of the community while adding directly to the region’s economic impact.

– article submitted by Rebecca Barnes