A Tribute to a Legendary Huntsman: Captain Ian Farquhar
A recent hush has fallen over the hunting world as we bid farewell to an extraordinary figure. Captain Ian Farquhar, a towering icon within the hunting community, has passed away at the age of 78.
An Enthralling Journey
Known to many as simply "Captain", Farquhar dedicated over three decades of his life as the master of the Duke of Beaufort's, commanding the Beaufort hounds from 1985–2011. However, his journey didn't begin there. Born on 11 December 1945 in Dorset, his early years were shaped under the guidance of his father, Sir Peter Farquhar, an esteemed master and huntsman of the Portman.
Following in his father's footsteps, Farquhar embraced a life of service, first joining the Queen’s Own Hussars and serving in multiple locations across the globe. Notably, he also served as an equerry to Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother in 1971. A charming tale from his service years recounts how the Queen Mother gifted him an alarm clock as a subtle hint after he missed an official engagement due to being late, a gift he cherished for life.
His Impact on Hound Breeding
The world of hound breeding owes a lot to Farquhar's ceaseless dedication and passion for the sport. After 12 successful seasons with the Bicester and Warden Hill, Farquhar made a move to the Beaufort in 1985, simultaneously introducing the Welsh blood through New Forest Medyg 69 and then Vale of Clettwr Fairy 73. This ingenious move played a significant part in cementing his spot as one of the most groundbreaking post-war hound breeders.
Farquhar's Pivotal Role in the Beaufort
During his time at the Beaufort, Farquhar emerged as one of the most eminent amateur huntsmen of his age. His spell at the helm saw Peterborough winning 13 doghound championships and six bitch championships, with Beaufort hounds reigning supreme for many years.
Beyond his influence in the hunting field, Farquhar was known for his wit and eloquence. Post-retirement, he lent his writing skills to H&H, recounting his experiences in ‘Farquhar’s Diary,’ a popular series where he visited a wide range of packs across Britain. He also penned his entertaining and captivating autobiography, 'The Way It Was,' in 2023.
The Legacy of Captain Ian Farquhar
Remembered as a luminary in the hunting world, Farquhar has left a significant impact on the sport. Prominent polo player Luke Tomlinson remembers Farquhar as "an inspirational huntsman, a lover of the countryside and great fun to go hunting with".
Indeed, Ian Farquhar's dedication, skill, and passion for hunting, along with his charismatic personality, will continue to echo through the fields and woods where he used to masterfully lead the hunts. His legacy lives on in the sound of the baying hounds and the thrill of the chase that meant so much to him.