Join us for the Wild Game Dinner & Silent Auction, a signature event that blends fine dining, Southern tradition, and community spirit in an elegant setting. Held on the top floor of 1011 Galleria, this venue embodies the spirit of Camden’s remarkable downtown revitalization. Once a dilapidated clothing store, it has been transformed into a beautiful space thanks to the vision and dedication of forward-thinking individuals who have invested in Camden’s future. Their efforts have brought numerous projects like this to life, creating a vibrant and thriving downtown Camden.

The evening’s gourmet feast will be catered by Lilfred’s Restaurant, one of South Carolina’s oldest and most charming fine dining establishments. Known for its unique rural setting and timeless approach to Southern cuisine, Lilfred’s promises a menu that celebrates locally sourced game and classic Southern specialties, crafted with care and served with elegance.

As the evening rolls on, a disc jockey will keep the energy alive with music, ensuring the night concludes with plenty of fun and dancing. It’s the perfect way to celebrate a successful Sporting Week, share stories from the field, and enjoy the company of friends, old and new.

What to Expect:

• Exquisite Dining: Savor a delicious menu of wild game and Southern favorites, prepared by the talented team at Lilfred’s Restaurant.

• Silent Auction: Bid on exclusive items and experiences that celebrate the best of sporting and equestrian life, with proceeds supporting our mission and community initiatives.

• Music & Fun: As dinner winds down, the night will pick up with lively music and dancing, ensuring the week ends on a joyful note.

Whether you’re a member of the Wateree Hounds, a Social Member, or a supporter of Camden’s equestrian community, this event is the perfect way to close out Sporting Week in style and camaraderie.

After the Brewer Plantation Hunt, join us in town for a delightful Hunt Breakfast at the historic Kershaw-Cornwallis House. This post-hunt gathering offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy traditional Southern fare while relaxing in one of Camden’s most iconic venues.

Hosted by: Jeanene Campbell and her team, this special breakfast is presented by Campbell & Company, a premier real estate firm specializing in high-end properties, including many of Camden’s finest horse farms. Jeanene and her team are generously hosting this event to connect with members of our equestrian community and showcase their dedication to supporting Camden’s vibrant horse industry.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Historic Camden for generously allowing us to use the Kershaw-Cornwallis House for this gathering. Their ongoing support of the Wateree Hounds has been invaluable, and we are proud to partner with them to celebrate Camden’s equestrian heritage.

Don’t Miss It!
Whether you’re a rider, a Social Member, or simply a fan of Southern charm, this event is the perfect way to conclude the morning’s adventures and enjoy the best of what Sporting Week has to offer.

The grand finale of Sporting Week takes us to the breathtaking Brewer Plantation, a historic Southern estate rich in foxhunting tradition and natural beauty. Spanning over 3,500 acres, this remarkable property offers a mix of rolling hills, red clay ravines, hardwood forests, and towering boulders that provide a thrilling and scenic backdrop for the day’s hunt. The plantation’s unique terrain creates a memorable experience for riders and spectators alike, blending the excitement of the chase with the history and charm of the Piedmont region.

Brewer Plantation holds a special place in the legacy of the Wateree Hounds, with its roots dating back to a grant from King George III and a history spanning generations of the Brewer family. At its heart stands the original plantation house, built in 1799 and perched atop the highest crest, offering sweeping views of the surrounding countryside that seem to transport visitors back in time.

After the hunt, drive back to town for a formal hunt breakfast at the historic Kershaw-Cornwallis House, hosted by Jeanene Campbell and her team. Known for its rich Revolutionary War history and timeless charm, this iconic venue provides the perfect setting to conclude the morning with camaraderie, Southern hospitality, and a delicious meal.

A Beagle Hunt Like No Other

Join us at Paschal’s Farm for a delightful afternoon and evening featuring a traditional beagle hunt and a relaxed soirée. Unlike fox hunting, a beagle hunt takes place on foot and is a highly social affair. Grab a beer or cocktail, and follow along as Jack Huffman casts his talented beagle pack into the scenic cover of the Paschal’s beautiful farm.

Rabbits tend to run in circles, meaning the action stays close, making this a fun and accessible event for hound lovers and hunting enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re a non-rider, an older guest, or bringing children, this event offers a wonderful introduction to the joys of the sporting life and hunting pursuits, all without the rigors of horseback riding. Children, in particular, will love watching the energetic hounds in action and experiencing the excitement of the hunt firsthand.

Breathtaking Scenery & Southern Hospitality

Paschal’s Farm, just over the line into the Piedmont region, offers stunning views of rolling hills and open fields. Vic and EJ Paschal, known for their warm hospitality, provide the perfect setting for this charming event. Guests will enjoy not only the hunt but also the opportunity to soak in the serene beauty of the property and share in the Paschals’ remarkable view of the countryside.

Soirée & Dinner

After the hunt, relax and unwind with a cocktail hour and a delicious dinner, blending adventure and elegance in true Southern style. The combination of camaraderie, stunning scenery, and the Paschals’ unmatched hospitality ensures this will be a memorable evening for all.

Join us for a hunt at H. Cooper Black Recreation Area, a premier venue known for its equestrian-friendly trails and serene landscapes. Spanning 7,000 acres within the Sand Hills State Forest, this iconic location offers a mix of open fields and longleaf pine forests, providing exceptional terrain for foxhunting. The park’s well-maintained trails and rolling topography make it a favorite among riders, combining natural beauty with practicality.

This fixture holds a special charm as a site dedicated to preserving South Carolina’s sporting traditions. With its connection to Dr. H. Cooper Black, Jr., a passionate outdoorsman and conservationist, the park embodies the values of sportsmanship and stewardship, creating a unique and meaningful backdrop for the day’s hunt.

After the hunt, gather for a sumptuous hunt breakfast hosted by Sandy Cushman, Jane Kirby, Nina Gowl, and Katherine Fanning. Their attention to detail and warm hospitality ensure this breakfast will be a highlight of the day, offering the perfect opportunity to relax, reflect, and enjoy good food in great company.

Traditional supper plates ($20) by Mt. Vernon's Chef Justin Cherry include Carolina rice bread, NC goat cheese, smoked ham, Durham mustard, and pickled vegetables.

Free English Country Dance lessons throughout evening. Cash bar available.

While separate from Wateree Hounds Sporting Week, this event celebrates Camden's heritage alongside Historic Camden Foundation.

Join us for a special hunt breakfast at the National Steeplechase Museum, conveniently located in the heart of Camden on the grounds of the Springdale Racecourse. This unique venue, known for hosting the iconic Carolina Cup in the spring and the Colonial Cup in the fall, offers a rich backdrop of equestrian history that makes this breakfast a can’t-miss event for our Social Members and out-of-town guests alike.

Hosted by Sue Gibbs, Mike, and Collin Burkott, along with Louisa Hughes, Ken Trogden, Marta Rose, Leigh Younce & Chris Crispens, Craig Cheevers & Alene Harfman, and Mary Taylor, this event will feature a delicious spread of Southern favorites, served with a side of warmth and camaraderie that defines the spirit of Sporting Week.

Unlike breakfasts held at more distant fixtures, this event is right in town, making it an ideal gathering spot for Social Members looking to experience the fun and community of the hunt without heading out to the countryside. Whether you're an avid foxhunter or simply love to socialize and enjoy great food in a beautiful setting, this breakfast is the perfect way to connect with fellow members and soak in the charm of Sporting Week.

Tee off at the Hounds & Links: Golf Tournament, hosted at the beautiful Camden Country Club designed by Donald Ross. With both team and individual play options, this event promises scenic fairways, strategic challenges, and plenty of fun. Stick around for post-round refreshments and awards as we celebrate a great day on the greens.

The third day of hunting during Sporting Week takes us to the historic Knights Hill Plantation, where we’ll join hounds and huntsmen from the Genesee Valley Hunt, led by their esteemed huntswoman, Marion Thorne. The plantation’s diverse terrain and scenic landscapes promise an exciting day for riders, whether the game is abundant or elusive.

Spanning 2,695 acres just northwest of Camden, Knights Hill offers a mix of natural longleaf and loblolly pines, hardwood vistas, and managed pine plantations that provide excellent cover and viewing opportunities. The rolling topography adds variety to the chase, while the property’s elevated points offer spectacular views of Lake Wateree, creating memorable moments for all.

After the hunt, gather for a hearty hunt breakfast at the Steeplechase Museum, hosted by Sue Gibbs, Mike, and Collin Burkott, along with Louisa Hughes, Ken Trogden, Marta Rose, Leigh Younce & Chris Crispens, Craig Cheevers & Alene Harfman, and Mary Taylor. Enjoy delicious food, great company, and the Southern hospitality that makes Sporting Week so special.

Wrap up the day with a Wine and Cheese Shopping Event, hosted by Adriane and Jonathan Potter at The Tack Room. From tack to tablecloths, The Tack Room offers an unparalleled array of equestrian-related products. It's the perfect way to relax, recharge, and prepare for your next sporting adventure in style.

Get ready to saddle up for an exciting polo experience! Join us at the historic Kirkwood Field for a Beginner’s Polo Clinic, where you’ll learn the basics of this elegant sport. Afterward, watch or participate in a friendly two-chukker match that highlights the skills and camaraderie of the day.

Explore the unique treasures of the Tally-Ho Exchange, Camden’s premier consignment store for equestrian fashion, gifts, art, jewelry, and more. Founded by Mary Towell, an experienced foxhunter with a passion for preserving the traditions of the sport, this shop offers everything you need to assemble the perfect hunt wardrobe. From vintage riding attire to high-quality housewares, visit the Tally-Ho Exchange and discover something special.

Join The Camden Hunt on Wednesday, January 29th at 9:00 AM to experience foxhunting traditions with one of our neighboring hunts. While separate from Wateree Hounds Sporting Week, this event showcases Camden's rich foxhunting heritage. Pre-register at thecamdenhunt.com with completed waivers and capping fees. Formal attire required. Parking at The Camden Hunt Clubhouse.

Take part in a classic Southern dove shoot at MacBurn Plantation. Enjoy an exciting morning in the field, led by expert guides, followed by a rustic field-to-fork breakfast. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or a beginner, this experience promises camaraderie, breathtaking views, and a true taste of Southern tradition.

Join us for the 2nd hunt of the week at MacBurn Plantation, a fixture with deep significance to the Wateree Hounds. MacBurn was our first fixture and served as the foundation of our hunts for the first three seasons. Spanning over 5,000 acres, this remarkable property has been in the Clyburn family for over 200 years.

MacBurn’s terrain is flat and sandy, providing excellent footing for horses. The land features rolling sandhills, winding trails through woodlands, and fields of native grasses, making it ideal for riding. Once one of the largest cotton plantations in the country—large enough to be seen from space (before Google Earth, that is)—the property has undergone a transformation over the past 20 years. The Clyburn family has worked to restore native habitats by planting grasses and returning portions of the property to woodlands, all while maintaining much of it in conservation programs.

Today, the fixture has a vibrant and thriving ecosystem, a testament to the family’s dedication to preserving the land. We are proud to have Virginia Clyburn as one of our whippers-in when she isn’t saving lives as a doctor, and her husband, Charlie Clyburn, as a landowner when he isn’t saving souls on Sundays as a Chaplain—a fitting balance for his day job as an attorney. While the area’s sandy soil may be perfect for horses, it didn’t win over George Washington, who once described the region as a “miserable pine barren” during his travels as president. Luckily for us, what Washington saw as misery, we horse folk see as opportunity.

After the hunt, join us at the lodge for a hunt breakfast hosted by the Fab Five from Sumter and beyond: Ashley Mooneyham, Sherry Wood, Jody Fate, Brittany Newman, and Jessie Duffee. This dedicated group of rough riders don’t miss a hunt or a jump if they can find it, so their breakfast is sure to be a treat—not just for the food, but for the fun and creativity they bring to the table. You never know what these five will get up to, but one thing’s for certain: it’s always memorable.

After a day in the field, kick up your heels at the Moonlight Square Dance & Southern Smoke Out. This lively event features live music, expert square dance callers, and mouthwatering Southern BBQ. No experience is necessary to join the fun—just bring your dancing shoes and enjoy a memorable evening.

Begin your week with a hunt at Sugarloaf Mountain, guided by Sam Clifton of the Wateree Hounds and joined by distinguished huntsmen. Locals affectionately call it “The Mountain,” but for our friends visiting from truly mountainous regions, it’s more of a hill with big dreams. Rising about 100 feet above the surrounding flatlands, it’s one of the rare elevations in this otherwise level corner of South Carolina.

The terrain offers a mix of rolling sand hills, red clay paths, and open woods, providing plenty of room for hounds and riders to navigate as they follow the trail. With the natural beauty of the Sandhills as your backdrop and plentiful game about, it promises to be a memorable morning.

After the hunt, gather lakeside for a traditional Southern meal of Chicken Bog served fireside, hosted by Ned Towell, Vince Paschal, and Whit Boykin. This hearty dish is sure to be a treat for everyone, especially those visiting from north of the Mason-Dixon. Enjoy good food, great company, and a little Southern hospitality to round out the day.

Kick off Wateree Hounds Sporting Week with a relaxed and welcoming evening by the fire at Finally Farm, hosted by Jackie Montgomery and Andrew & Amanda Beevis. Enjoy a hearty chili dinner, good company, and a cozy atmosphere as everyone settles in for the week ahead. It's the perfect chance to unwind, connect with fellow sporting enthusiasts, and ease into the festivities. This event is included in the Fox Hunt Full Package and Social Packages or can be purchased separately for $50. Come as you are—no need to dress up!

Welcome to Wateree Hounds Sporting Week 2025! Check-in will be open all day on Sunday, January 26th, from 10:00 AM on at Finally Farm. Riders staying for the week with Full Hunt Packages will find a Sporting Week Welcome Kit waiting for them upon arrival. This curated kit includes essential event materials, exclusive Sporting Week merchandise, and thoughtful surprises to help you prepare for the exciting week ahead.

If you are not staying at Finally Farm, you can collect your Welcome Kit at the Welcome Dinner later that evening.

For participants stabling outside of Camden, here are the addresses for additional stabling locations:

• FINALLY FARM: 210 Firetower Rd, Camden, SC 29020

• FRANK WOOTEN STABLES: 2236 Carter St, Camden, SC 29020

• PINE TREE STABLES: 1265 Sanders Creek Rd, Camden, SC, 29020

Hunters Education Course

Join us for an informative and engaging Hunters Education Course designed to equip you with essential knowledge and skills for safe and responsible hunting. This comprehensive course is perfect for both beginners and seasoned hunters looking to refresh their understanding of hunting regulations, safety protocols, and ethical practices.

Event Details:

Date: July 23
Time: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Location: Goodale State Park, Community Building
Cost: $50 per person (includes a catered lunch by Everyday Gourmet)

Course Highlights:

• Expert instruction by Ray Forrester, Game Warden, SCDNR

• In-depth coverage of hunting laws and regulations

• Safety procedures for handling firearms and other hunting equipment

• Wildlife identification and conservation principles

• Ethical hunting practices and responsibilities

Catered Lunch Options: Each box lunch includes a sandwich, condiments, napkin, chips, and a cookie. Choose from the following options:

• Turkey & Provolone

• Ham & Swiss

• Veggie Sandwich

• Chicken Salad Sandwich

• Egg Salad Sandwich

• Pimento Cheese Sandwich

• EDG Club

• Big Apple

• Horsey Roast Beef

• Turkey Feta Wrap

Please register by June 18 to secure your spot and ensure your preferred lunch selection. We look forward to seeing you at Goodale State Park for a day of learning, camaraderie, and preparation for a safe and successful hunting season.

Wateree Hound Challenge Series: Championship Match

Date: June 3rd, 2024
Time: 5:00 PM
Location: Historic Kirkwood Polo Field, Camden, SC

The moment of glory has arrived with the final championship match of the Wateree Hound Challenge Series! This is where the intensity of the competition reaches its zenith, and the true champions of the series are crowned. After a season of incredible plays, strategic brilliance, and unwavering dedication, our players are ready to leave everything on the field in pursuit of the ultimate victory.

Witness the culmination of skill, perseverance, and team spirit as our players face off in this decisive match. The air at the historic Kirkwood Polo Field will be electric with anticipation, as spectators and players alike share in the thrill of this final confrontation. Who will ascend to the top and etch their names in the annals of the Wateree Hound Challenge Series history?

Join us for a day that promises not just top-tier polo action but a celebration of the sport's rich tradition and the vibrant community that makes it all possible. Be there to support your favorites, revel in the community spirit, and witness the crowning of the champions.

Don't miss this exhilarating conclusion to the Wateree Hound Challenge Series. Be part of the excitement, the passion, and the history in the making at Kirkwood Polo Field. See you there for a championship match that will be talked about for years to come!

Wateree Hound Challenge Series: Match 4 of 5

Date: May 20th, 2024
Time: 5:00 PM
Location: Historic Kirkwood Polo Field, Camden, SC

The stakes are higher than ever as we gallop into the fourth match of the Wateree Hound Challenge Series! With the end in sight, our players are set to demonstrate the culmination of their hard work, refined skills, and unwavering team spirit. This pivotal match is where strategies are tested, champions emerge, and the foundation for the final showdown is laid.

As the series nears its climax, each moment on the field is charged with anticipation and excitement. Will the leading team maintain their edge, or will an underdog rise? Join us to witness the unfolding drama and cheer on your favorite players as they battle for polo supremacy on the historic grounds of the Kirkwood Polo Field.

Bring your family, friends, and love for the game to experience an unforgettable afternoon of competitive polo, community camaraderie, and the sheer joy of the sport.

Don’t miss this penultimate match, where every goal, every save, and every gallop writes another chapter in the story of the Wateree Hound Challenge Series. Be part of the journey towards victory at Kirkwood Polo Field – where legends are in the making.

Wateree Hound Challenge Series: Match 3 of 5

Date: May 6th 2024
Time: 5:00 PM
Location: Historic Kirkwood Polo Field, Camden, SC

The competition heats up with the third match of the Wateree Hound Challenge Series! As we reach the midpoint of the series, watch as our determined players harness the lessons of the past two matches to bring even more skill, strategy, and spirit to the field.

This match isn’t just another game; it’s the heart of the series where rivalries deepen, and heroes emerge. Each chukka is a testament to the dedication and passion our players have for the sport of polo, set against the iconic backdrop of Camden’s historic Kirkwood Polo Field.

Gather your friends and family for an afternoon of heart-pounding polo action, community spirit, and the chance to see which team will claim victory and set the pace for the remaining matches.

Be there to support your favorites and enjoy a day filled with thrilling sportsmanship, tactical plays, and the vibrant atmosphere that only polo in Camden can offer.

Don’t miss this crucial midpoint match—where the chase for the championship becomes clearer with every swing. Join us for a memorable day at Kirkwood Polo Field!

Gallop into Spring: Wateree Hunt Club's Derby Day Celebration at Finally Farm

Dear Wateree Hunt Club Members,

Get ready to don your finest Derby attire and join us for an unforgettable Derby Day Bash at Finally Farm's outdoor pavilion on May 4th! The festivities will kick off at 5 PM as we gather to enjoy the thrilling "Run for the Roses," indulge in refreshing mint juleps, and revel in the festive atmosphere.

For this special event, we'll be hosting a BYOB pitch-in. We will provide the BBQ, mint juleps, and non-alcoholic beverages, and we invite each of you to bring your favorite appetizer, side, or dessert to share. It’s the perfect opportunity to show off those culinary skills! To ensure a diverse and delightful selection, please follow the link below to RSVP and indicate whether you'll bring an appetizer, side, or dessert. The sooner you sign up, the better your chances of bringing your preferred dish!

Now, a quick reminder: please leave your one and five-dollar bills at home. While our enthusiasm for the race might suggest otherwise, remember that we won't be taking any cash bets at our party because there will absolutely not be any betting going on at this party—wink, wink. 

But the excitement doesn't stop with the race. We're thrilled to introduce you to our new huntsman, Sam, along with his lovely wife, Shannon, and their charming son, William. This is your chance to meet the newest additions to our Wateree family and welcome them with the warmth and camaraderie that define our club.

Please RSVP by April 28th to ensure we have plenty of mint juleps to go around. We can’t wait to see you there, dressed to impress and ready to enjoy a day of tradition, friendship, and maybe a little horseplay.

Cheers to a fantastic Derby Day!

Warm regards,

Wateree Hounds

Wateree Hound Challenge Series: Match 2 of 5

Date: April 22nd, 2024
Time: 5:00 PM
Location: Historic Kirkwood Polo Field, Camden, SC

Join us for the second match in the exhilarating Wateree Hound Challenge Series! Watch as our teams, fresh from their inaugural clash, return to the field with sharpened skills and heightened determination. It’s not just a match; it’s the next chapter in their journey to polo greatness.

This series is quickly becoming the talk of the town, blending fierce competition with the spirit of community camaraderie. Don’t miss out on the action as our players vie for supremacy, supported by the cheers of friends, family, and polo enthusiasts from near and far.

Whether you're a seasoned polo aficionado or new to the sport, this match promises entertainment, thrilling sportsmanship, and a chance to witness the passion and progress of the Camden Polo League firsthand.

Be part of the legacy. Be part of the excitement. See you at Kirkwood Polo Field for a day of unforgettable polo action!

You're Invited: The Wateree Challenge Series Inaugural Match - Where Beginners Dare to Dream!

Hey Polo Fans (and soon-to-be fans),

Guess what? We're diving headfirst into the polo scene with the inaugural match of the Wateree Challenge Series, and you're invited to witness the splash! The Camden Polo League is all geared up to showcase what happens when enthusiastic beginners grab mallets and decide, "How hard can it be, right?"

Come see us in action - where the only thing faster than our ponies is our learning curve. Expect a mix of skill, spills, thrills, and probably a few hilariously missed goals as our local heroes take to the field, fueled by passion and perhaps just a tiny bit of overconfidence.

This isn’t just a polo match; it’s the birth of legends (or at least some really good stories for Tuesday morning). Whether you know your chukker from your chuckle or you thought a mallet was something you found in a toolbox, you'll fit right in. Bring your cheers, your jeers, and your laughter as we embark on this gloriously unpredictable journey together.

Let’s fill the stands with support and maybe a bit of gentle ribbing for our brave players. After all, every great player had to start somewhere, and we're starting at the Kirkwood Polo Field with you as our witnesses (and hopefully, our biggest fans).

Mark your calendars, and let’s make this inaugural match a day to remember - for the triumphs, the faux pas, and everything in between. See you there, where history will be made...or at least attempted!

Cheers to new beginnings and fast learners,

The Camden Polo League

Join the Fun at the Tail Waggin’ Ball: A Night of Fun and Support for Our Four-Legged Friends!

Wateree Hounds members and friends,

Got a cool invite for you all! The Kershaw County Humane Society is throwing a party – the "TAIL WAGGIN’ BALL" on March 15th at the stunning Bloomsbury estate. It's from 6 to 10 PM, and it's shaping up to be a blast!

This isn't just any party. It’s in a gorgeous historic home in Camden – a perfect backdrop for a fun night. Plus, we get to support a great cause that’s close to our hearts: caring for animals, especially dogs. The Humane Society does awesome work with stray dogs and cats, much like our dedication to our 40 fox hounds.

Expect a night with good music, tasty drinks, and even a raffle. It’s a great chance to hang out, enjoy some good company, and help animals in need.

Really hope to see you guys there. Let's make it a night to remember!

Cheers,

NTT

Wateree Hounds

For more information go to kchumanesociety.org

Breakfast to follow. Tally Ho wagon will go out.