In November 1936 a small group of people met to discuss the possibility of forming a riding club. Early in 1937 the club was formed and named The Crusaders' Riding Club. The land surrounding Fa'side Castle was granted by Charter to the Seaton family as far back as 1246. In 1949 a Club Charter  was presented by Mr Clapperton to the Crusaders' Riding Club and this is now read out during the ceremony at Fa'side Castle where the Honest Lad raises the Flag to signify to the surrounding district that Musselburgh is now in Festival.

This year our Club Captain, Jim McKeown, will be sashed on the banks of the River Esk under the Roman Bridge by Kirk Ritchie (Past Captain 1989-90). This ceremony will start at 5.50 p.m. prompt before the commencement of the ride. Meanwhile the riders will form at Inveresk Industrial Estate at 5.30 to ford the Esk at 5.50 p.m.

Fa'side Castle

The ride will then proceed to Fa'side Castle via Eskside, Bridge Street, Dalrymple Loan, Inveresk Road, Inveresk Village, Carberry and thence to Fa'side Castle at approximately 7.00 p.m.

After the ceremony the ride will then head back to Musselburgh via Wallyford Village, where traditionally a bouquet is presented to the Honest Lass by Mr John Stewart, and a buttonhole to the Honest Lad. After this presentation the ride will proceed via Haddington Road to Levenhall roundabout; along Hope Place to the back of the Musselburgh Racecourse to Balcarres Road.

The ride will then proceed (via) Goosegreen Crescent, the Electric Bridge, New Street to Mountjoy Terrace then the spectacular gallop along the beach at approx 8.30 p.m. The ride will gather then head to Loretto Corner via New Street and Goosegreen Crescent. Arriving at Pinkie Pillars at approximately 9.10 p.m. to be met by the Penicuik Boys Brigade Pipe Band.

The procession will then proceed via the High Street, Bridge Street, North High Street, Lochend Road South, Market Street fording the Esk once again at the Roman Bridge at approximately 9.30 p.m.

After the ride the Crusaders' will hold an informal Supper Dance in Eskmills Bowling Club to which everyone is welcome. Tickets for this dance are £7.00 and can be obtained from committee members. The Nita Halliday Memorial Trophy for the oldest rider completing the Chase Night Ride. Last year this was won again by Brian Kennedy. Last year we had a new trophy for the youngest rider, which has been kindly donated by Jeanette Munro, This was won by Katie Bennett who is Brian's granddaughter. Both trophies will be presented at the Dance.

Since its inception in 1937 The Crusaders' Riding Club has gone from strength to strength. The present committee endeavour to maintain the traditions of the Club whilst also organising a calendar of equestrian and social events for its members. To become a member of the Club, you must successfully complete a two stage riding test, details of which can be obtained from members of the Committee.