Cape Hunt and Polo Club

Polo. Photo courtesy Peter Morgan

Drag hunting
Drag Hunting is an exciting cross-country equestrian sport, where drag hound packs use foxhounds that are trained to follow an artificially laid scent trail. The course is varied and features natural hazards, jumping and opportunity for galloping. Any healthy, fit horse or pony breed is suitable to ride for the hunt, which forms part of an old Cape tradition that dates back nearly 200 years.

Open season
The Cape hunting season runs from May to September. Cape Hunt and Polo Club members meet on most Sundays at magnificent venues that offer wide-open countryside. Hunting is open to any competent rider.

A wee dram
The hunt is heralded by a traditional “Stirrup Cup” of sherry, whisky or port ahead of the drag at 10am. The course takes place over 14km or so, and includes a Champagne stop at the halfway mark while the horses and hounds take a break.

Dress code
You may not hunt without a hard hat or crash helmet (with chin strap) and black boots. Attire is a black, blue or tweed jacket worn with white, cream or beige breeches. Only members awarded their “buttons” may wear scarlet jackets or collars.

Calendar
Please consult the website at www.chpc.co.za for more information regarding venues, times and costs or call us at Cape Town Tourism on +27 (0)21 487 6800 and we will find out for you.

The club, which is situated in Durbanville, is also an active polo club.