I agree that the " break with tradition" must be hard to bear. Why not keep the tradition and add a little twist?

How about all who wish to participate, put on their "tight-fitting jodhpurs" with steaks tied to their behinds and THEN loose the hounds to chase them over field and fence! That way they could excercise the hounds and themselves at the same time. Plus if anyone slips, one could even enjoy a little "blood sport"!