Madam, - There is nothing remotely cruel or inhumane about the bull-running in Pamplona.
It takes part at 8am and, after the run through the streets, the bulls are herded out the back and a few calves are let loose in the ring. The white-shirted young men stroll around, trying to look brave and are chased by the calves.
Usually a chase will last only a few paces, when the calf will lose interest. Occasionally, as the photograph in your edition of July 11th showed, the young man can find himself in serious trouble.
At all times the watching crowd is "for" the calf, as I found myself when being chased. I ran toward the barrier that surrounds the ring, expecting the people seated there to move aside. Not at all. If anything, they looked as if they'd kick me back on to the hooded horns of the calf.
It's all fun and enjoyed thoroughly, even by the humans who get a few thumps. - Yours, etc,
GERRY O'MALLEY,
Old Conna Village,
Bray,
Co Wicklow.