Cub-hunting and netting of hares far from sports’ ideal

Even as we bask in the glory of Ireland’s sporting triumph, preparations are underway for activities that have never featured in the Olympics and that constitute an insult to the name of sport.

I refer to cub-hunting and the netting of hares for another coursing season. Though neither coursing nor fox hunting commences until October, the ordeal for the animals affected has already begun.

Cub-hunting, or “cubbing” as fans call it, is a practice whereby novice hounds are introduced to hunting. Coverts known to contain litters of fox cubs are surrounded by hunters, and all escape routes closed off. The dogs are then sent in to attack the cubs. The animals have no chance and are ripped asunder amid a frenzy of blood-crazed mayhem. Any cub that seeks refuge by escaping from the circle of death is beaten back with whips or well-aimed kicks from the hunters. The aim of cubbing is to give the dogs a taste for blood.