THIS year is a very special one for the Ballymacad Hunt, as they celebrate their huntsman Kevin Donohue’s 25th season hunting this renowned pack, which is one of the oldest in the country and will be celebrating their tercentenary in 2030, having been formally formed in 1730.

Hunting is in the blood of the Donohue family and, for a third of the time this pack has been in existence, a member of the Donohue family has been at the forefront, with Kevin being the third generation. In 1924, 100 years ago, Paddy Donohue took up a position with the Ballymacad Hunt, which led to promotion to huntsman during his term. Some years later, his brother Peter (Kevin’s grandfather) took the horn and, in 1972, it was passed on to his son, Barry, who is Kevin’s father. An unfortunate injury, resulting in Barry unable to ride for a time, led to Kevin taking over in 1999 and he has not looked back since.

The Ballymacad Hunt country is vast taking in parts of Meath, Westmeath and Cavan, with each area having their own traits, from the walls of Loughcrew to the narrow double banks of Cavan.

It is the great relationship Kevin has forged with the local farmers and landowners down through the years that result in such fantastic country being available to the Hunt to cross. This varied country means the huntsman’s horse needs to be a master of all, which is where Kevin’s exceptional horsemanship and eye for a good one comes into play.

Kevin himself is not one for the limelight and he will always acknowledge the team of people who are involved with him and this in itself says something about the person he is. He has two honorary whipper-ins, Maurice Quinn and Bobby Kellett, who have served with him for his time and they have as much passion for hounds and drive for hunting as their huntsman, which is obvious for anyone on the hunting field to see.

WAY OF LIFE

Hunting is a way of life, as those involved know too well and fortunately for Kevin those closest to him share his passion. His wife, Johanne, and daughters, Aoibhinn and Brianna, share the workload in the yard and hunt every Saturday with the odd Tuesday off school too!

The masters, committee and members of the Ballymacads are exceptionally proud of their gifted huntsman and intend celebrating his achievements in style at their Hunt Ball on March 2nd 2024 in the Headfort Arms Hotel, Kells. Should anyone wish to join in and raise a glass to Kevin, they can contact Rachel on 087 2969137.