The sport of fox hunting has become synonymous with British aristocracy, and for good reason. The British refined this sport centuries ago and still consider it one of their greatest traditions.

While less popular here in the U.S. than in England, the sport of fox hunting is thriving, albeit in small numbers, in America. In addition to noncompetitive hunts, which include packs of baying hounds, there are contests within this sport involving day-in-the-country rides, hunter paces and hunter trials. In day-in-the-country events, riders compete in a number of different classes related to fox hunting. Hunter paces are informal rides where hunters negotiate obstacles and situations typically found in fox hunts. In hunter trials, riders present their horses in a more traditional show format. Horses are judged on their skills as well.

Although fox hunting is considered a blood sport, American fox hunts emphasize trailing the fox rather than killing it. According to the Masters of Foxhounds Association, 1 percent of the hunts in America result in a kill. While fox hunting is an exciting sport, it calls for a calm horse that will be relaxed yet willing enough to jump whatever obstacle is asked of him.

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