When the hunting season wraps up, you might think it’s time to kick back - but for many hunt followers and their horses, things are only just heating up. That’s because summer brings an opportunity to take part in the high-octane, crowd-pleasing inter-hunt relay competitions.

These fast-paced, team-based events pit two squads of three or four riders against each other in a race against the clock over identical mirror-image courses. The rules can vary but the majority of competitions are knock-out style, so the winners of each heat move on to the next round - where things often get a little more intense. Expect higher fences and trickier layouts as the competition ramps up, especially once you get to the semi-finals.

The courses are never boring. You’ll see a mix of jumps - some that fall if hit, some that don’t budge - alongside unexpected challenges like gates to open and shut, weaving through bending poles, or even carrying a full glass of port without spilling (easier said than done when you’re flying round a course).

Speed is key, sure, but it’s not everything. Time penalties for knockdowns or spills mean that the first team across the line isn’t always the winner. Precision counts.

Right now, hunts across the country are busy with training sessions and team trials. Everyone’s got their eye on the prize at some of the summer’s top competitions - not just the glory, but also the prize money that often helps fund the hunts themselves.

Even the most laid-back hunt member can suddenly become seriously competitive once they’re in the ring with their team and a baton in hand. It is therefore vital that every team member - whether mounted or on foot - is reminded that they are representing not only their hunt, but also showcasing hunting to the public, so the highest standards of riding and animal welfare remain paramount at all times. 

Inter-hunt competitions can be hugely entertaining and offer the perfect chance to demonstrate one of the many great aspects that the hunting community can be involved with. 

Below we have highlighted a couple of inter-hunt relays taking place where we recommend you put your entries in early to avoid disappointment. Do let us know about other inter-hunt relays which are taking place so we can add them to our listings…

Festival of Hunting, Peterborough – 16 July
Senior teams battle it out in the morning for a £1,000 prize, while junior teams bring the heat in the afternoon. It’s part of a full day celebrating everything to do with hounds and hunting - plus there’s great shopping in the trade stands too. For more details visit Inter Hunt Relay – Festival of Hounds (entries close 25 June).

The Game Fair, Ragley Hall – 27 July
Always a favourite, the inter-hunt relay here takes place in the main arena. It draws a crowd of countryside enthusiasts, and the energy is fantastic. Whether you’re competing or just watching, it’s a real highlight of the summer. To enter visit .