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A lesson in respect
Over recent years, I have had the privilege of shooting in Germany and have been greatly impressed with a traditional ceremony conducted at the end of each day. In German this is called the strecke. Der streckenplatz is laid out with spruce forming three sides of a square with lights or flames at each corner. Game is arranged in precise lines, each horizontal and diagonal line being properly dressed. The guns all line up with the beaters and keepers on one side and the dog handlers on the opposite side.
The host gives a short speech to thank everyone for their assistance on the day and for providing the sport we have so enjoyed. They then play two or three hunting calls on their horns from the open end of the square. These calls are designed to honour specific game. It is a surprisingly moving experience to have sportsmen standing silently around the game that has been shot, the smoke and lights adding to the mystery
