TRYON — Glitz and glam scintillated across the dance floor, as approximately 125 members and guests celebrated the 91st annual Tryon Hounds Hunt Ball Saturday.

Men in scarlet tails escorted ladies in sleek black gowns to the sumptuous feast, catered by The Hare and Hound. The festivities included a silent auction fundraiser, with attendees bidding on fox print pillows, waster glasses bearing the Tryon Hounds logo, enchanting hunt scene prints and a print of Secretariat. 

Michael Cece acted as auctioneer for special items, such as a private fox hunting adventure complete with a hunt breakfast, box seats at the Peace Center in Greenville and a romantic carriage ride, donated by Cece himself.

Rebecca “Becky” Barnes, president of the Tryon Hounds Board of Directors, addressed the celebrants, and thanked the many people whose efforts contributed not only to the night’s festivities, but also for a successful hunting season.

“Tonight, we thank our Masters, our hunt staff, our members, the horses and, especially, the hounds,” Barnes said. “But, it is the generosity of our membership and the landowners that make our sport possible.”

Barnes recognized the Hunt Ball Committee, asking each to join her and MFH (Master of Foxhounds) Dr. Dean McKinney, MFH Mrs. Charles C. Lingerfelt III and MFH Mrs. George Hughtston Jr. at the microphone. Committee members included Ivey Sumrell, Tara Brannon and Sylvia Younger. Barnes said Cam Brandon, Paula and George Stathakis, Jim Sumrell, Edwina Hutto, Heidi Mendez, Drew Brannon, and Kathy Gruhn assisted the Hunt Ball Committee as well.

Barnes also thanked all members and the local businesses that donated to the live and silent auction. She then ended the short address by asking the crowd to give a big “thank you” to the hunt’s current masters.

“With combined 78 years of serving as a Master. And, they are the best! Please give ‘thank you’ and a big Tryon Hounds welcome to Master Louise, Master Bonnie and Master Dean,” Barnes said.