In a week marked by both the thrill of the hunt and the sombre undertones of change, the Limerick Hunt witnessed the passing of the torch as Major Wise’s resignation paved the way for Mr Nigel Baring to assume the role of Master for the upcoming season. The announcement came amidst the backdrop of a challenging hunting expedition, where the weather mirrored the uncertainties that loomed over the hunting community.
Major Wise, a stalwart figure in the Limerick Hunt, steadfastly clung to his decision to resign, leaving the hunt committee with the task of finding a worthy successor. Enter Mr Nigel Baring, a familiar face in the Duhallow region and a neighbor to Major Wise. The transition of leadership was seamless, with Mr Baring receiving unanimous approval from the hunting community to step into the prestigious role for the forthcoming season.
Mr Baring’s connection with the Limerick Hunt dates back to UN, and during his tenure in the Duballow, he garnered a reputation for delivering exceptional sporting experiences. His track record spoke volumes, and as the new Master, he was poised to continue the legacy of the Limerick Hunt, traversing from his old hunting ground across the River Deel into uncharted territories.
The hunt in the preceding week unfolded with a mix of excitement and challenge. The Limerick pack, gathering at Brure, discovered a fox in Mr Browning’s covert, setting the stage for a spirited chase. The hounds embarked on a thrilling twenty-five minutes, coursing through the picturesque landscapes towards Kilmallock. However, the weather, initially unfavorable, took a turn for the worse upon reaching Ballyineeragh, adding an extra layer of complexity to an already demanding pursuit.
Amidst the adverse conditions, a brace of foxes emerged from Ballyineeragh, one of which was pursued towards Athlacca but eluded the hounds before it could be apprehended. The hunt’s original plan to convene at Crain on Monday faced a change in light of unforeseen circumstances – the passing of Father Lee, the esteemed parish priest of Croom. The fixture was relocated to Rosstemple, symbolizing a poignant acknowledgment of the wider community’s shared grief.
The hounds, undeterred by the inclement weather and the shift in plans, pressed on with their pursuit. Glenbe led the pack, weaving a captivating trail through Castle Termon and Athlacca before circling back to the starting point. The unpredictable nature of the hunt was evident as the pack encountered a fox in Clorane, tracing a route that meandered by Clorene House and Boberard West Ground, eventually turning towards Meanus. The chase concluded at this juncture, leaving hounds and hunters to reflect on the challenges and triumphs of the day.
The death of Father Lee cast a shadow over the proceedings, a poignant reminder of the interconnectedness of the hunting community with the broader fabric of local life. The change in venue served as a testament to the adaptability and resilience of the Limerick Hunt, navigating both the unpredictable terrains of the hunt and the emotional landscapes of life.
As Mr Nigel Baring assumes the mantle of leadership, he steps into a role that transcends the mere pursuit of foxes. The Limerick Hunt, steeped in tradition and camaraderie, continues to be a symbol of resilience and continuity in the face of change. The transition, marked by the loss of one esteemed figure and the emergence of another, underscores the cyclical nature of life within the hunting community, where each season brings new challenges and opportunities for growth.
As the Limerick Hunt looks towards the future under Mr Baring’s stewardship, the echoes of the past resonate in the memories of Father Lee and Major Wise, two figures who have left an indelible mark on the rich tapestry of the hunting tradition in the region.
Field – Saturday 04 January 1908
