Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lure Coursing?
Lure Coursing is a tradition steeped sport which was originally started to give sighthounds the ability to hone their age old skills of hunting using their eyes rather than their noses.
Lure Coursing tries to stimulate the hound's natural instincts for coursing, by chasing the Lure (a bunch of plastic strips or a plastic bag) that is tied to a rope and pulled around spindles and pulleys by a stationary motorcycle especially designed for this purpose. The course pattern is irregular and somewhat similar to the way a hare might run in the open field and certainly keeps the dogs and their owners entertained.
Traditionally only sighthounds participated in lure coursing and racing, including breeds such as Afghan Hounds, Borzois, Greyhounds, Irish Wolfhounds, Ibizan Hounds, Pharaoh Hounds, Deerhounds, Salukis, and Whippets. Here at ALCRC we like to think that the sport shouldn't be limited to the sighthounds only, so we encourage any breed of dog, purebred or not, that has an affinity for the chase, to come along and compete.
Hunting with dogs goes back to ancient time, as can be seen by pictures and tapestries in Art Museums, but as all good things, Lure Coursing has evolved over time and is now a sport which is extremely popular in England, Europe, and the U.S.A.
Is any live game ever used in the trials or training of the Lure Coursing Dogs?
NO. Live game is never used in the trials or the training of the Lure Coursing Dogs. The R.S.P.C.A. has fully endorsed our sport and has commended our efforts for promoting responsible dog ownership. Not only do we encourage good health and safe exercise for our dogs, but the safety and welfare of other animals on our grounds is also important to us. We also minimise our impact on the grounds we use by leaving it clear of any rubbish or damage.
What happens at regular club meets?
The day is very relaxed and focused on having fun. Members and newcomers meet at the event grounds where tickets for runs may be purchased. Each dog is run individually whilst all others are secured on leads so they don't interfere with the running dog.
Where does the club meet for coursing?
We lease our usual grounds at Thomas More College, Salisbury Downs and often hold Straight Track runs at Shooters Park in Virginia.
Both Venues are Fully Fenced and not open to the public.
Please check the upcoming events page for individual locations for each date.
Thomas More College
Is there any gambling involved?
NO. No gambling is involved with this sport as strictly outlined in our rules.
What happens during an Official Lure Field Trial?
In an official Lure Field Trial, each dog is released on the Huntsmaster's call of "Tally Ho" and they follow the lure around the course. Each dog is scored on it's ENTHUSIASM, FOLLOW, AGILITY, SPEED and ENDURANCE. After the scores are totalled at the end of the day (each dog is run twice) prizes are awarded to the 1st, 2nd and 3rd dog in each breed, with the overall winner of the day getting special recognition. The points allotted go towards the title of Field Champion and for those dogs that already have that title, the title of Lure Courser of Merit.
Are there any restrictions to a dog racing?
Any dog with a drive for chasing is welcome. However puppies under 15 months are not allowed to do full courses with corners but may participate in straight puppy runs. Also bitches in season are not to be coursed.