There was a live pigeon competition in Paris at the 1900 Olympics.
http://www.swedish.org/17161.cfm
http://www.abc.net.au/olympics/2000/SHOOTING/about/default.htm

I have no problem with a pigeon shoot as long as the "targets" are consumed after the event and local laws are not violated. The last one held locally, that I am aware, was in 1992. There was a huge disagreement between various agencies and enforcement officials about the legality of the event. Eventually a ruling was made stating that it was legal. However, because of the legal bills incurred, the local club has stopped the event.
http://www.sharkonline.org/?P=0000000143

Other clubs have had similar problems:
http://www.thetimes-tribune.com/site/ind...90572&rfi=8

Of course there are those who have a problem with this type of event:
http://www.hsus.org/wildlife/hunting/criminal_charges_north_carolina_pigeon_shoot.html

Pete