Natalie Wales - Intro to Foxhunting - OTTB Foundational Clinic
8/22/2026
Clinic Overview
Foxhunting is one of the most accessible and rewarding second careers for retired Thoroughbred racehorses, yet many riders are hesitant to try it because they are unfamiliar with the traditions, etiquette, and expectations of the hunt field.
This unique clinic begins with a "Reverse Tailgate"—bringing participants together before they ride to recreate the informal educational conversations that traditionally happen after a hunt. Riders will have the opportunity to ask questions, learn the customs and culture of foxhunting, and gain confidence before ever putting a foot in the stirrup.
The mounted portion then transitions into the field, where participants experience riding as a group in working hunt territory, practicing the skills and etiquette that prepare both horse and rider for a successful first day with the hunt.
About Natalie
Originally from England, Natalie Wales grew hunted with the Warwickshire and Heythrop Hunts before relocating to the United States 25 years ago. For the past 20 years, she has been an active member of Orange County Hounds, where she continues to enjoy the sport and the traditions of foxhunting.
Natalie owns and operates a boarding and training business specializing in producing versatile horses for the hunt field and beyond. With extensive experience starting young horses, retraining off-the-track Thoroughbreds, and developing horses.
Her passion for Thoroughbreds also led her to establish a nonprofit dedicated to retraining and rehoming retired racehorses. By introducing many of these horses to foxhunting and other second careers, she has helped demonstrate the breed’s athleticism, soundness, and exceptional suitability for life beyond the racetrack.
OTTB ReStart Clinic Series at Great Meadow:
The goal of the program is to showcase best practices in Thoroughbred retraining and highlight the versatility of these horses across disciplines. This clinic focuses on developing OTTBs from the foundations to the rigor of a horse show environment. Under professional instruction, riders and their horses will have the opportunity to learn through the lens of a top-level professional, focusing on navigating the complex inner workings of OTTBs.
Organizer Notes
*Sign up by 5:00pm August 12th
*Current signed Great Meadow Waiver & Release required
*Negative coggins required
*Certified helmet must be worn while mounted
*No riding alone; must have another rider with you or a grounds person
✅ Submit a Complete Entry
The organizer requests the following for a complete entry - Learn More:
- Coggins
- Rider Signature
- Parent Signature (if under 18)
Session 1
$200.00
Session 1 Auditor
$25.00
Session 2
$200.00
Session 2 Auditor
$25.00
Session 3
$200.00
Session 3 Auditor
$25.00
Administrative Information
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Ride Time
Hour One – The Reverse Tailgate
(Ground Session – Interactive Discussion)Gathered around coffee and refreshments in an informal setting, participants will discuss:- Introduction to Foxhunting
- What foxhunting is today
- Conservation and land stewardship
- The role of the hunt within the community
- Hunt Organization
- Understanding the Field
Preparing Your Thoroughbred- Conditioning
- Fitness
- Group riding experience
- Trailering
Hour Two – Mounted Hunt Field Experience
Participants mount and move into a suitable working country to apply the concepts discussed during the classroom session.
Trailer Direction Directions:
Address:
Great Meadow Foundation; 5089 Old Tavern Road; The Plains, VA; 20198 From D.C: I-66 west to exit 31 to VA Rt. 245 toward Old Tavern; turn left onto Old Tavern Road; 1.8 miles, your destination is on the left. From Winchester I-81:Take exit for I66 East to exit 28 towards Warrenton; go 2.7 miles, take a right onto Old Tavern Road; your destination will be on the right.
Change Policy Changes are not permitted.
Refund Policy No refunds.-
Entry Option(s)
Secure Spot: Pay in full via STRIDER
