3rd November 2023 The only independent racing pigeon weekly - over 125 years serving the fancier
Racing Pigeon The only independent racing pigeon weekly – Over 100 years serving you the fancier £1.70 3 NOVEMBER 2023 • No. 7352
INCREDIBLE ATMOSPHERE GREAT EVENT NOT TO BE MISSED
Doncaster Racing Pigeon Show Saturday 4th November 2023 CATERING FOR THE NEEDS OF FANCIERS IN EVERY ASPECT Doncaster Racecourse, Leger Way, Doncaster, DN2 6BB
Welcome to this years exhibition which once again is going to be a fantastic event. We will again offer top quality pigeons, products, loft accessories, lofts and auctions, in fact everything you require for the breeding season from companies all around the UK, Ireland and Europe. Friday Night Moot and Entertainment in the Halmahera Bar Area, in the Doncaster Racecourse, FREE entrance with either trade stand wristband or purchased Saturday Show E-Ticket. Don’t forget venue parking is free for up to 900 cars. We wish you all another fabulous Donny weekend and with the nearby bed and breakfasts, hotels and nightlife we hope that you enjoy the atmosphere that The Racing Pigeon Show continues to create. Lee Fribbins / Carly Huggins
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THE RACING PIGEON 3 NOVEMBER 2023
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OBITUARIES
HALL, ANDY – We were shocked and saddened to hear of the recent passing of Andy who use to fly pigeons with his late father Ken in the old Osmaston Park Tenants Association Flying Club back in the seventies when their headquarters were at the Elton Road Club. When
passed away and he always longed for the good old days of the sport which are sadly now gone. Harlow and London will never see the like again, farewell old friend. I would like to thank Bob Fenech for looking after him the last few years. You did him proud. My condolences to Annie and the family. – Mark Bulled THOMAS, PAUL – It is my sad duty to report the death at the age of 76, of Paul Thomas of Ynysboeth near Abercynon at the southern end of the Cynon Valley. Paul had suffered ill health for some time but he remained one of life’s true gentlemen. Time spent in his company was always time well spent as I found out when attending the Rhydyfelin marking station of the Welsh South Road National. At the time Paul was one of the stalwarts of the club, a good worker who was always there to lend a hand. I can remember reporting on the Welsh fancy in the 1970’s for the old Pigeon Racing News & Gazette, and one of the names that was always at or near the top of the results in the Cynon Valley and the massive Welsh North Road Fed of 1,500 lofts, was that of Thomas & Cadogan. This was Paul in partnership with his lifelong friend Keith Cadogan. The partners went on to win the Welsh South Road National from Saintes in the mid 1990’s to add to their many successes on the North Road. I didn’t know Paul for any length of time but I’ve known of him for most of my time in the sport, such was the level of success he achieved. He will be greatly missed by all who were fortunate to meet him. Condolences to the family in this sad time. The Welsh Fancy has lost a modest and unassuming gentleman. Rest in Peace Paul. – Gareth Watkins on behalf of Paul’s many friends TILLSON, PAT – Osmaston Park Homing Society club members were deeply saddened to hear of the passing of club member Pat
Andy started his apprenticeship at Rolls Royce he worked in the Tool Room. In that particular era there were no ETS systems and everyone had a clock where you had to use thimbles. If you had brass thimbles in those days you were the bees knees, so with Andy working in the tool room, lo and behold nearly all members ended up with brass thimbles. He was a first class tradesman. He was also a first club member helping out on a Friday marking the pigeons when they had to all be rubbered, loading the transporter when it arrived and some Friday’s it was very late. Andy also took on the roll of
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The Only Independent Racing Pigeon Weekly and e -edition Over 100 Years Serving You The Fancier Breaking news at www.racingpigeon.co.uk
3 NOVEMBER 2023 Issue No 7352 The Racing Pigeon Co Ltd, PO Box 12760,
club Secretary with everything running in a very professional manner. Andy was one of the best people you could wish to meet. He was a loving father to Thomas, Lucy and James and a loving husband to Isobel. Our sincere condolences to all his family. Andy will be surely missed by all that knew him. Rest in peace Andy. – Alan & Liz Houldsworth SHAW, VIC – I regret to inform the fancy of the sad passing of Vic Shaw, formerly of Harlow, after a long illness. Vic was a legend both in his racing prowess and personality. His performances back in the London North Road Combine were second to absolutely no one, and this back in the day when the LNRC truly was mighty. Five times 1st Combine and five times winner of the coveted Tommy Long Trophy, only matched by the famous Alf Baker, truly reaffirming the all-time great Vic was. Some of Vic’s most famous performances include 1st Combine Thurso with Thomas 6,500 birds, a record entry for Thurso. 1st Combine Thurso with ‘Boudica’ – only bird on the day with over 5,000 birds, and probably Vic’s favourite and most famous bird of all. ‘Tom Thumb’ – 1st LNRC Berwick 8,000 birds and 10x1st Fed over 2,000 birds. How much would ‘Tom Thumb’ be worth now? He was unbeatable and a real Champion. Vic was a London Taxi driver, and true to form he had an opinion on most things and gave them to you whether you wanted to hear them or not. He certainly ruffled a few feathers, but all he really wanted was racing to be great again. With the decline in the North Road, Vic went South and won the BBC Bordeaux National. But Vic hated the South, and didn’t we know it, so went back to his love the LNRC. Vic loved the social side of the game, loved Blackpool, and loved Friday nights in the winter up the club. Vic was great company and was so saddened when a lot of his old mates
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Tillson who sadly left us on Monday 9th October after a short illness. Pat was a lifelong pigeon flier, 50 years plus and in his earlier days was very successful winning many prizes along the way. Pat was always willing to help out on marking night and if asked to do anything else he was only to willing to help. He was very keen on antiques and went to many an auction with his celebrity friend Bill Maynard who played (Claude Jeremiah Greengrass in the hit programme Heartbeat). Pat was also a talented singer who travelled round many a venue entertaining audiences. He leaves a daughter Stacey and son Daniel and his wonderful grandchildren who meant
You can subscribe by visiting our website at racingpigeon.co.uk where you can either subscribe to the digital or printed editions or by phoning 01206 250880 with your credit card details. UK 9 months £65 – 6 months £45 3 months £25 Europe & Eire 9 months £101 – 6 months £67.50 3 months £34 Rest of the World 9 months £126 – 6 months £84 3 months £42 The Editor or The Racing Pigeon accepts no responsibility for the accuracy of statements made in advertisements and all advertisements are accepted on the strict understanding that the advertiser shall pay all legal or other costs arising out of any disputed advertisement. The Racing Pigeon reserves the right to alter advertisements and the statements made therein if they are possibly defamatory, or are inaccurate or for any other reason. This is a condition of acceptance of all advertisements. The same conditions apply to correspondence about advertisements. It is a condition of acceptance of all advertisements placed by an agency, or any person acting on behalf of an advertiser, that the advertiser and agency are equally and severally responsible for payment of invoices. The entire contents of THE RACING PIGEON are copyright throughout the world by The Berne Convention and Universal Copyright Convention. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or other-wise, without the prior written permission of The Racing Pigeon Co Ltd. In the pursuit of accurate reporting, references to trade names or proprietary products may be necessary in articles in this newspaper. No endorsement of named products is intended, nor is any criticism implied of similar products which are not mentioned. Registered as a newspaper at the Post Office. Entered at Stationers’ Hall ISSN 0033 7390 CONDITIONS OF SALE AND SUPPLY: This periodical is sold subject to the following conditions, namely that in the United Kingdom it shall not, without written consent of the publishers first given, be lent, re-sold, hired out or otherwise disposed of by way of trade at a price in excess of the recommended maximum price shown on the cover, and that it shall not be lent, re-sold, hired out or otherwise disposed of in a mutilated condition or unauthorised cover by way of trade, or affixed to or as part of any publication, literary or pictorial matter whatsoever. Distributed by Inter-Media © 2023 The Racing Pigeon Co Ltd
the world to Pat. Rest in peace Pat. You will always be remembered but never forgotten. – Osmaston Park Homing Society members
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THE RACING PIGEON 3 NOVEMBER 2023
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THE RACING PIGEON 3 NOVEMBER 2023
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Bolger Family win two in a row from Skibbereen – Race Report by Homer
After the difficult Skibbereen the week previous it was no surprise that the entry for this season’s INFC Skibbereen would be greatly reduced, thankfully despite some poor conditions especially in Northern Ireland the result and returns were much better. The shorter flying lofts had the best velocities, and it was a good day at the office for the Bolger Family from the Blackwater RPC taking the top six in the South Sect and best bird overall recording velocity 1553 for the 130 miles, and also won 1st Sect & 1st Open
‘Ocean View Speedy’ 1st Club, 1st Fed, 1st Middle Section INFC Skibbereen YB 2023, also 2nd Club, 2nd Fed Pilmore Beach for B & P McEvoy.
called and texted me. – Blaine McEvoy. Thomas Kavanagh Drogheda & District RPC, 2nd, 3th, 5th, 8th, 9th, 12th & 13th Middle Section, 10th, 11th & 16th INFC YB Skibbereen National flying 191 miles. Tom was at the Algarve One Loft race and sent me info on his return. Tom had an excel- lent race in the final National of the season timing 16 of 20 entries, the first bird over the pad is 054201, this blue hen has shown plenty of promise with a 1st Club 130 miles, 2nd Club 140 miles beaten by a loftmate, bred from birds purchased from the top lofts
and ‘Eenoogske’. We would like to congratulate the Middle Section winner and also the North Section winner who’s birds put up great perform- ances. – Lenny Bolger. INFC Middle Section Skibbereen 19/154 – 1st B & P McEvoy Castlebellingham, velocity 1396; 2nd, 3rd & 5th Tom Kavanagh Drogheda & District, velocities 1388, 1361 & 1339; 4th & 6th Corcoran & Keegan Barrow Valley, velocities 1359 & 1312. B & P McEvoy 1st Middle Section flying 200 miles, former King’s Cup winners. This young bird is a blue cock he was 2nd Club 2nd Fed just two weeks ago from Palmore Beach. He’s a son off ‘Ocean View Lillie Boy’. Blaine wrote me and my dad are really happy with the result we can’t believe it we won this race last year thanks for all the calls and
INFC South Section Skibberen 8/88 –1st 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th & 6th Bolger Family Blackwater RPC, velocities 1553.4, 1553.1, 1552.9, 1552.3, 1519 & 1494. Also 1st Open INFC. Just a few minor details regarding the winning pigeons. Four arrived together the first over the pads was a red hen, both parents were bred by Derek Walsh Dynasty Lofts, Waterford, the grand sire is a Van den Bulck from Marcel Sangers and the grand dam is another Van den Bulck named ‘Shirocco’ who was sold on PIPA last year. Second bird is a son of our best racer ‘Baaeed’ who is a winner of 7x1st including 1st Fed this year. He is a son of one of our top stock hens which is from our friend Leo Jnr Dobbs (who by the way had a great season this year winning 4x1st South Leinster Feds). She is a Pouw hen and has produced some top pigeons here. Dam of the second bird is another from our friend Derek Walsh and she is a winner of 3x1st and an actual half-brother to ‘Baaeed’. Third, 5th & 6th pigeons are three brothers. Sire was from Leo jnr Dobbs and is a Maris cock. He is eight years old now and is another to produce some really top birds including Fed winners, just this year he sired birds to be 7th & 8th Fed Penzance 45th & 79th Open INFC Yearling National when only 100 birds were time on the hard day out of 3,300 birds. Dam of these three brothers another from Derek she is from Derek’s Olympiad cock who is responsible for a host of top pigeons. Fourth bird across the pad a blue cock. Sire was bred by Stephen Foster, England, and is a grandson of Dirk Van den Bulck’s ‘Goede Rode’ while the dam is from Syndicate Lofts UK and she is grand- daughter of the Golden Pair ‘Nieuwe Rossi’ Bolger Family win the race for the second year, ‘Parranormal’ bred by Derek Parr won 1st Open INFC Skibbereen YB Nat in 2022.
last season. B & P McEvoy from Castlebellingham had 1st in the Middle Sect and former winners, they also won 1st Middle Sect in the corresponding race last season, Mr & Mrs G Delaney from Dromore had 1st in the North Sect ahead of Owen Markey from Ballyholland in Newry. Lenny Bolger from Blackwater RPC, overall winner of the INFC Skibbereen.
of Gerry O’Mara in Dublin. Gerry has supplied some great birds and his bloodlines run through the next three birds. Second bird is Jan De Bisshop x Gerry O’Mara, third bird is a cracking young cock, again 100% Gerry O’Mara, the fourth bird is a cross of Gerry O’Mara and the ‘728’ hen. ‘728’ has a number of club and Section wins including from St Malo, the nestmate of this bird actu- ally did well in the AGR last weekend. Tom would like to thank Gerry O’Mara for supplying him with good birds to work with, well done Tom. 4th & 6th Middle Sect Corcoran & Keegan Barrow Valley, velocities 1359 & 1312 flying 135 miles. Just a few lines on our 4th & 6th Middle Section prize winners in the recent INFC Skibbereen Young Bird National. Both are blue hens, bred by our good friend Luc Cuelemans in Belgium, we have been getting these birds in each year for the past 17 years, and it’s very seldom that they fail to produce some very good racing birds each Big result in the Middle Section for Thomas Kavanagh of Drogheda & District.
texts. Our winning pigeon is blue Soontjen cock. His sire is ‘Ocean View Lillie Boy’ who won 1st Open Talbenny 2022, and the dam is ‘Ocean View Lillie’ who was a super hen. When racing first year in the stock loft we found winning pigeons breed winners. The winning pigeon was set up for this race he’s in the Skibbereen section as we call it, he had two races before Skibbereen being 2nd Club 2nd Fed Pilmore Beach two weeks before this. He was sent to this race being paired to a hen and was trained every day up to the racing. We won this race last year and can’t believe we’ve done it again in 2023. We would like to say we’ll done to the winner and like to say a big thank you to all people who The B & P McEvoy partnership winner of the Middle Section for the second year.
‘Lady Shirocco’ 1st Club, 1st South Section and 1st Open INFC Skibbereen for the Bolger Family.
THE RACING PIGEON 3 NOVEMBER 2023
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Glen 1292, 1292, 1292, A & N Lewis 1258, Bingham & Deaton Ligoniel 1211, J & D Braniff 1181, Bingham & Seaton 1191, McMurray & Anderson 1187. Coleraine Station Skibbereen – D Dixon Ballymoney 1234, 1233, 1228, D & H Stuart Ballymoney 1136, D Dixon 1078, 1059, 1044, 1026, 1016, 1000. Mid Antrim Combine – Danny Dixon best from INFC Skibbereen National The last race of the season was the INFC Skibbereen Young Bird National flown on Friday 22nd September. Danny Dixon from Dunloy in County Antrim had the best three birds winning 1st, 2nd & 3rd in the MA Combine on 1234, 1233 & 1228 and 44th, 46th & 47th North Section 103/872. The dam of Danny’s first bird won 6th Open from the Infc Penzance Young Bird National in 2016 and is a half-sister to ‘Dixie Chic’ 1st Open INFC Penzance Young Bird National 2010. The sire is a half-brother to ‘Cuchullian’ which won this race in 1998. The sire was
several good positions in the young birds. Fifth North Sect is a bird I bought from Clyde Rollins, 8th bird is my own breeding origi- nating from birds I bought from Gerard Delaney which I have had a lot of success with. – Gary Marsden. Results INFC Skibbereen YB National INFC South Section Skibberen 8/88 – 1st 2nd 3rd 4th & 5th 6th Bolger Family Blackwater RPC, 1553.4, 1553.1, 1552.9, 1552.3, 1519 & 1494. I NFC Middle Section Skibbereen 19/154 – 1st B & P McEvoy Castlebellingham 1396, 2nd, 3rd & 5th Tom Kavanagh Drogheda & District, 1388, 1361 & 1339, 4th & 6th Corcoran & Keegan Barrow Valley, 1359 & 1312, 7th & 10th P Rock & Son Dublin NE, 1301 & 1284, 8th & 9th Tom Kavanagh, 1298 & 1285. INFC North Section Skibbereen 103/872 – Mr & Mrs G Delaney Dromore HPS 1352, Owen Markey Ballyholland 1346, J & L Smyth Grosvenor 1341, Mr & Mrs G Delaney 1338, Gary Marsden Hillsborough &
year. The two hens here were reared on the Darkness system and raced to the perch. Well done to all the 1st Section winners and to the overall winners Bolger Bros from Drogheda & District. – Francis Corcoran. Mr & Mrs G Delaney Dromore, 1st & 4th North Sect Skibbereen YB National, velocities 1352 & 1338 flying 234 miles. The Skibbereen record breakers Mr & Mrs Delaney former winners of this event and winners from Skibbereen on several occa- sions. This year the family won 1st & 2nd Open in the NIPA Skibbereen. The Oroory Hill Stud need no introduction. Owen Markey from Ballyholland, 2nd North Sect Skibbereen YB National, velocity 1346 flying 218 miles. Winner of 4th Middle Section for Corcoran & Keegan, Barrow Valley.
1052. East Coast Federation Skibbereen (INFC) – B & P McEvoy Castlebellingham 1396, T Kavanagh Drogheda & District 1388, 1361, 1339, P Rock & Son Dublin North East RPC 1301, T Kavanagh 129, 1285, P Rock & Son 1284, Devine & Hilmi Skerries 1283, T Kavanagh 1251, 1249, E & J Campbell Balbriggan 1244, P Rock & Son 1227, T Kavanagh 1223, P Rock & Son 1221, 1220, Devine & Milmi 1216, T Kavanagh 1216, P Rock & Son 1194, S Dunne & Son 1192. INFC Centre/Stations Skibbereen YB National Coleraine Station Skibbereen YB – D Dixon Ballymoney 1234, 1233, 1228, D & H Stuart Ballymoney 1136, D Dixon 1078, 1059, 1044, 1026, 1016, 1000. Kilkenny Station Skibbereen – B & B Gahan 1462, 1450, 1407, 1406, 1406, Reggie Condron 1393, 1377, Corcoran & Keegan 1359, 1312, Reggie Condron 1301. Banbridge Centre Skibbereen – M/M G Delaney Dromore 1352, O Markey Ballyholland 1346, M/M G Delaney 1338, O Markey 1328, Jeff Greenaway Hills & Maze Blue chequer hen finished 2nd North Section for Owen Markey of the Ballyholland HPS in Newry.
also well up in the Open result from the Lamballe Friendship National race of 2017. Gary Gibson of Cullybackey was next best and placed 4th in the Combine. His dark w/f hen won the Cullybackey club in the NIPA Skibbereen National the previous week finishing 6th MA Combine, 10th Section & 60th Open. The sire is an inbred ‘Heartbreaker’ cock and the dam’s from a son of the 2nd Open cock paired to Gary’s 1st Section Talbenny Young Bird National hen. Bertie Blair was best in Ballymena & District and 5th in the Combine with his good chequer hen sitting on a youngster. This hen has 2x1st and 1x2nd Club now including 2nd Combine, 3rd Section B and 13th Open from the NIPA Skibbereen National last week. The sire was purchased from the late Lexie Mullan at his dispersal sale. I would just like to thank everyone who supplied me with results and details for the past season. – Mervyn Eagleson PO Mid Antrim. Mid Antrim (INFC Skibbereen YB National) – D Dixon Rasharkin 1234, D Dixon Rasharkin 1233, D Dixon Rasharkin 1228, G Gibson Cullybackey 1180, Blair & Rankin Ballymena 1179, D Dixon Rasharkin 1078, D Dixon Rasharkin 1059, D Dixon Rasharkin 1044, D Dixon Rasharkin 1026, D Dixon Rasharkin 1016. INFC Clubs Skibbereen YB National Blackwater RPC – Bolger Family 1553.4, 1553.0, 1552.9, 1552.3, 1519, 1494, Fran Cullen 1490. Enniscorthy – B & B Gahan 1450. Castlebellingham – B & P McEvoy 1396. Drogheda & District – Tom Kavanagh Joe Smyth from Grosvenor in Belfast and now racing in Trinity RPC, 3rd North Section Skibbereen.
Maze 1330, Owen Markey 1326, Jeff Greenaway Hillsborough & Maze 1325, Gary Marsden 1325, David Calvin Bondhill 1313, Daid Calvin 1312. Overall race winner Bolger Family. NIPA Skibbereen (INFC) YB National – Mr & Mrs G Delaney Dromore HPS 1352, Owen Markey Ballyholland 1346, J & L Smyth Trinity RPC 1341, Mr & Mrs G Delaney 1338, Gary Marsden Hillsborough & Maze 1330, Owen Markey 1326, Jeff Greenaway Hillsborough & Maze 1325, Gary Marsden 1325, David Calvin Bondhill 1313, Daid Calvin 1312, Ron Williamson Newry & Dist 1308, Matthew Russell Dromara 1308, A & N Lewis Doagh & Dist 1302, Gary Marsden 1302, A & N Lewis 1301, Jeff Greenaway 1300, Gregory O’Dowd Gilford & Dist 1295, Lyons & Kennedy Hillsborough & Maze 1294, J & D Braniff Glen HPS 1292, 1292. East Antrim Combined Skibbereen – A & N Lewis Doagh & Dist 1302, 1301, J & D Braniff Glen 1292, 1292, 1292, A & N Lewis 1258, Bingham & Seaton Ligoniel 1211, J & D Braniff 1181, Bingham & Seaton 1191, McMurray & Anderson 1187, Bingham & Seaton 1168, A & N Lewis 1160, Bingham & Seaton 1139, 1127, 1110, 1100, J & D Braniff 1084, A & T Agnew Ballyclare 1083, T Creighton & Son Carrick 1083. J & D Braniff Another great result for Oroory Hill Stud. Gerald Delaney was 1st Club, 1st Banbridge Centre, 1st North Section Skibbereen YB National.
Bred by good friends Kevin & Kristopher Rooney from direct Patrick Boeckx stock having previously bred multiple 1st prize winners. This loft had an outstanding season racing in the NIPA. – Jordan Hughes PO. J & J Smyth from Belfast, 3rd North Section Skibbereen YB National, vel 1341 flying 249 miles. A top parthership in Belfast raced with great success for many years in Grosvenor HPS. The blue hen is full sister to the hen that was 2nd North Section Skibbereen previously, she is also full sister to a hen winner NIPA Section D Old Bird of the Year. Yearling hen with three Section and 3x2nd Section. This young hen has been clocking well this young bird season so she was my nominated pigeon for this race, she is from my Stefaan Lambrechts breeding. – Joe Smyth. Gary Marsden from Hillsborough & Maze 5th & 8th North Section Skibbereen YB National, velocities 1330 & 1325 flying 243 miles. Probably a best racing season for Gary, big result in the NIPA St Malo OB National and Winner of 6th Middle Section, Corcoran & Keegan, Barrow Valley.
1325, R Williamson Newry & Dist 1309, Matthew Russell Dromara 1308, Jeff Greenaway 1308, Lyons & Kennedy Hills & Maze 1306, M/M G Delaney 1294. Portadown Centre Skibbereen – D Calvin Bondhill 1313, D Calvin 1312, G O’Dowd Gilford 1289, C & H Beattie Gilford 1288, G Buckley & Son Annaghmore 1266, D Calvin 1247, R Mulligan Monaghan 1242, Joe Brown Meadows 1239, D Calvin 1247, R G & G Donaldson Edgarstown 1212. Muckamore Station Skibbereen – A & N Lewis Doagh & Dist 1302, 1301, J & D Braniff Owen Markey had a big season racing with the NIPA and finished well in the final INFC Skibbereen.
THE RACING PIGEON 3 NOVEMBER 2023 Single Bird Challenge King’s Cup race, F Moran Malahide & District RPC Vel 955. Robinson Trophy – Saint Allouestre OB – 14th position in the King’s Cup, F Moran Malahide & District RPC Vel 894. McCloud Cup – Saint Allouestre OB – 1st Yearling in the King’s Cup, J Greenaway Hillsborough & Maze HPS Vel 948. Ronnie Johnston Challenge Cup – Skibbereen OB – Inland National, J Greenaway Hillsborough & Maze HPS Vel 1284. Gerald Delaney Trophy – Skibbereen OB – Best Section winning velocity after winning Section, K Allister Monaghan HPS Vel 1263.
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Brown & Son 1286, 1260, 1216. Skerries – Devine & Himli 1283, 1216. Colin HPS – J Gregory & Sons 1280, Johnston Bros 1236, J Gregory & Sons 1198, 1194, Johnston Bros 1189. Crossgar HPS – P Byrne & Son 1271, 1221, C McManus & Daughter 1198, 1142. Millvale – Donnelly Bros 1269, 1200. Drumnavaddy Inv – Sam Ogle 1269, E McAlinden & Sons 1226, J Brush 1167, C & G Quinn 1149, J Brush 1104, S Ogle 1083, J Mount & Son 1044, J Brush 1009. Annaghmore – G Buckley & Sons 1266. Newtownbreda – B Hogg & Son 1263, 1181. Balbriggan Invitation – E & J Campbell 1244, S Dunne & Son 1192, E & J Campbell 1044, S Dunne & Son 996, E & J Campbell 983, M & U Gorman 982. Monaghan HPS – R Mulligan 1242, K Allister 1160, 1099, 1068, R Mulligan 1045, 960. Meadows HPS – Joe Brown 1239, 1184, 1124, 1090, 1089, 1082, 1079, Matt McCabe 1079, 1066, Joe Brown 1060. Ballymoney HPS – D Dixon 1234, 1233, 1228, D & H Stuart 1136, D Dixon 1078, 1059, 1044, 1026, 1016, 1000. Lisburn & District – Gary Smyth 1217, 1202. Edgarstown HPS – R G & G Donaldson 1212, 1177, 1158, 1131, R Bell & Sons 1082, R G & G Donaldson 1078, 1029, 999, 948. Ligoniel & District – Bingham &
1388, 1361, 1339, 1298, 1285, 1251, 1249. Barrow Valley RPC – Corcoran & Keegan 1359, 1312. Dromore HPS – M/M G Delaney 1352, 1338, 1279, 1202, 1190. Ballyholland HPS – Owen Markey 1346, 1328, 1279, 1279, C O’Hare 1270, O Markey 1234, C O’Hare 1219, O Markey 1212, C O’Hare 1202, 1188. What can you say about this man his pigeons have been on fire all season. Congratulations Owen Markey taking the top four places in the Ballyholland club today, 2nd in the Banbridge Centre from INFC Skibbereen YB National. He won the open the first young bird race and has kept it going all year, 20x1st Club wins this season. Just a phenomenal year he had. Well done Owen. Grosvenor – J & L Smyth 1341. Hillsborough & Maze – Gary Marsden 1330, Jeff Greenaway 1325, Gary Marsden Winner for J & L Smyth of Belfast, 3rd in North Section.
Nelson Vase – Saint Allouestre OB – 1st RPRA member after winner in the King’s Cup race, J Murtagh & Son Ballyholland HPS Vel 972. Gilliland Cup – Saint Allouestre OB – 1st IHU member after winner in the King’s Cup race, F Moran Malahide & District RPC Vel 955. East Down Combine Cup – Saint Allouestre OB – 1st EDC member in the King’s Cup race, T Marshall & Son Newtownbreda HPS Vel 952. Ulster Federation Cup – Saint Allouestre OB 1st Ulster Federation member in the King,s Cup race. Not Won. NIPA Cup – Saint Allouestre OB – 1st NIPA member in the King’s Cup race, Mark Maguire & Son Millvale HPS Vel 978. Joe Cullen Memorial Cup – Saint Allouestre OB – 1st East Coast Fed member in the King,s Cup race, F Moran Malahide & District RPC Vel 955. Billy Ingle Trophy – Saint Allouestre OB – 1st Irish South Road Federation member in the King’s Cup race. Not Won. Danny Dixon top 3 in the Mid Antrim Combine from Skibbereen.
Framed Diploma – Skibbereen OB – Lowest Section winning velocity, R & P Brennan Three Counties RPC Vel 1222. Friendship Cup – Saint Malo OB – Friendship National, R G & G Donaldson Edgarstown HPS Vel 1682. British Barcelona Club Trophy – Saint Malo OB – 2nd position in the Friendship National, Capper Bros Bondhill Social HPS Vel 1679. John Millar Logistics Trophy – Saint Malo OB – 1st member in the Section not winning the Open, G O’Reilly Malahide & District RPC Vel 1599. Henry Beattie & Son Trophy – Saint Malo OB – Best two bird average Friendship National, T McClean Edgarstown HPS Vel 1624. Irvine Trophy – Best Average OB Nationals Saint Malo and Saint Allouestre, T McClean Edgarstown HPS Vel 1168. Bertie Blair 1st Ballymena & 5th Combine.
Seaton 1211, 1191. West Belfast – D Balloch 1181. Cullybackey HPS – Gary Gibson 1180. Ballymena & District HPS – Blair & Rankin 1179. Shankill & District RPC – M/M Curtis 1162, 1013, V Brady Jnr 732, 661, 657. Dervock RPS – D & H Stuart 1136. Markethill HPS – Humphries & Baird 1114, 1097, G Hewitt 1050, Humphries & Baird 996, G Hewitt 975, 932. The winners the Bolger Family will collect the Tom Marshall Trophy and Diploma, and Diplomas will be awarded to the winners of the other two Sections. Many thanks to all those who assisted at race marking and the clock checking, dedicated teams working every single year. Thanks to the many spon- sors and thanks from me to all those who assisted in my race reports, the winners of a top 10 place and area Press Officers with text and photos. Details of the annual presenta- tion are below with a list of winners of the cups and trophies won in 2023. Irish National Flying Club Trophy and Award Winners 2023 King George V Challenge Cup – Saint Allouestre Grand National old bird race winner, Mark Maguire & Son Millvale HPS Vel 978. Congratulations D, M & G Ferguson on winning three bags of corn in the INFC Skibbereen OB National. These were kindly sponsored by Bamfords Top Flight. Collecting the bags are Gerry Ferguson and good friend big John Davidson.
1325, 1302, Jeff Greenaway 1300, Lyons & Kennedy 1294, Gary Marsden 1274, Jeff Greenaway 1270, Gary Marsden 1225, 1225, Jeff Greenaway 1223, Lyons & Kennedy 1215, Jeff Greenaway 1207, M/M S McAllister 1150, 1137. Bondhill Social – David Calvin 1313, 1312, 1247, 1215, 1159, 1158, 1157. Newry & District – R Williamson 1308, 1256, 1255, 1249. Dromara – Matthew Russell 1308, M/M Stevenson 1253, Matthew Russell 1191, M/M Stevenson 1173, 1172, 1156. Doagh & District – A & N Lewis 1302, 1301, 1258. Dublin Northeast – P Rock & Son 1301, 1284. Gilford & District RPS – G O’Dowd 1295, C & H Beattie 1288, 1092, 1090. Glen HPS – J & D Braniff 1292, 1292, 1292, 1191. Dundonald – M/M S Gary Marsden was 5th & 8th in the North Section Skibbereen.
SLF Cup – Saint Allouestre OB – 1st South Leinster Fed member in the King’s Cup race, L McCall Wicklow South Road RPC Vel 941. Duddy Extreme Distance Trophy – Saint Allouestre OB – Furthest flying member in the King’s Cup Open prizes, D & H Stuart Ballymoney HPS 521 miles 101st Open Vel 264. Harkness Rose Bowl – Saint Allouestre OB – Best two bird average King’s Cup, F Moran Malahide & District RPC Vel 949. Joe Doheny Cup – Saint Allouestre OB Gary Gibson 1st Cullybackey & 4th Combine.
Nelson Corry Trophy – Penzance OB – Yearling National, Martin Graham Ballymena & District HPS Vel 1398. James McGrugan Memorial Cup Penzance Yearling National – Section winner R G & G Donaldson of Edgarstown, INFC National Champions 2023.
THE RACING PIGEON 3 NOVEMBER 2023
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Newtownbreda HPS Vel 1114. Erwin Trophy – Best Average all races, R G & G Donaldson Edgarstown HPS Vel 1155. Ladies prizes won by J Greenaway, M Graham, Mark Maguire & Son, R G & G Donaldson, M Graham, Bolger Family. Framed diplomas sponsored by Danny Dixon Dunloy Saint Allouestre Single Bird Challenge – 1st Fintan Moran, Malahide & District RPC; 2nd Jeff McMaw, Carrick Social HPS; 3rd R G & G Donaldson, Edgarstown HPS. Congratulations to the winners. Homer – Willie Reynolds INFC Press Officer Tel/Fax: (028) 256 44683 Mobile: 07538 238364 Twitter: willie reynolds@homerbhw Email: homerbhw@gmail.com http://www.infcpigeons.co.uk http://www.pigeonnetwork.com http://www.irishnationalflyingclub.com www.niparacingpigeons.co.uk www.elimarpigeons.com
Harkers Trophy – Best Average Penzance Yearling and Penzance YB Nationals, Martin Graham Ballymena & District HPS Vel 1424. Robin Duddy Trophy. Penzance YB – Furthest flying member in the Penzance Young Bird Channel National Open prizes, S Laverty Ballymoney HPS 75th Open 346 miles Vel 1122. Charles Hunniford Memorial Trophy – Best Average (North Section) Skibbereen OB & YB Nationals, J Greenaway Hillsborough & Maze HPS Vel 1304. The New North Cup – Best Average Penzance Yearling, Saint Allouestre Kings Cup, Saint Malo Friendship, Penzance Young Bird Nationals, R G & G Donaldson Edgarstown HPS Vel 1144. President’s Cup – Best Average Saint Allouestre Kings Cup, Penzance Yearling, Penzance YB and Skibbereen YB Nationals, J Greenaway Hillsborough & Maze HPS Vel 1099. De-Scheemaecker Trophy – Runner up Best Average all races, T Marshall & Son
National Middle Section winner, B & P McEvoy ECF Castlebellingham RPC Vel 1396. Framed Diploma – Skibbereen YB Inland National North Section winner, Mr & Mrs G Delaney Dromore HPS Vel 1352. J Gilmour Memorial Cup – Best average Saint Allouestre OB and Penzance Yearling Nationals, J Greenaway Hillsborough & Maze HPS Vel 988. A Darragh Cup Best average Penzance Yearling and St Malo Friendship Nationals, M Gillan Newry & District HPS Vel 1423. Jarvis Cup – Best average Penzance and Skibbereen YB Nationals, G, Marsden Hillsboriugh & Maze HPS Vel 1328 Rhead Trophy Best Average – Saint Allouestre OB and Penzance YB Nationals, J Greenaway Hillsborough & Maze HPS Vel 1059. Diamond Cup – Best Average Saint Allouestre OB Penzance Yearling and Penzance YB, J Greenaway Hillsborough & Maze HPS Vel 1059.
not winning the Open, Zeballos & Thorpe Trim RPC Vel 1384. Sam Buckley Memorial Cup – Best two bird average Penzance Yearling National, Zeballos & Thorpe Trim RPC Vel 1384. Charles Ingle Memorial Trophy – 10th Open position Penzance Yearling National, K O’Brien & Son Malahide & District RPC Vel 1255. J M K McGugan Perpetual Cup—- Penzance – YB Channel Grand National, Martin Graham Ballymena & District HPS Vel 1452. William Erwin Memorial Cup – Penzance – 1st South Section in Channel YB National, D Mooney Dublin North County RPC Vel 1255. De-Scheemaecker Trophy – Penzance YB – Best two bird average in Channel YB National, B & D Coyle Coleraine Premier HPS Vel 1337. Tom Marshall Trophy – Skibbereen YB Inland National, Bolger Family Blackwater RPC Vel 1553. Framed Diploma – Skibbereen YB Inland
please either download an application from the website or contact the Secretary. Dinner Presentation There are still dinner tickets left for anyone wishing to attend on Saturday 18th November at the Marsham Court Hotel, Bournemouth, BH1 3AB. Tickets are £37.50 per person and can be purchased by contacting the Secretary. Accommodation can be booked directly with the Marsham Court Hotel on 01202 552111. Award Winners 2023 Guernsey OB National 3rd June 2023 Award Winners Mr & Mrs M A King (B388) – The British Barcelona Club Trophy, The Everson Sports Champagne Trophy and Section B Medal. Mr & Mrs Hodges (C186) – The Cyril Lowe Memorial Trophy and Section C Medal. J J Schoeman (A486) – Section A Medal. R J Lowe (D720) - Section D Medal. T S Sparks & P Dallas (G83) – Section G Medal. Gladwin & Jarvis (J292) – Section J Medal. Messac National 24th June 2023 Award Winners Clift & Harding (C454) – The Winners Silver Plated Salver and Section C Medal. J J Schoeman – The Runner Up and Section A Medal. Cottrell, Richmond & Rogers (B729) – The Section B Medal. R Turner (D118) – Section D Medal. M/M Chaplin (G120) – Section G Medal. M Bulled (J58) – Section J Medal. Tarbes National 30th June 2023 Award Winners D Gatland (G115) – The Race Winners Trophy and Section G Medal. Wearn Bros 1 & Neilson (A122) – Section A Medal. Lanahan & Gerard (B16) – Section B Medal. S Slade (C329) – The Section C Medal. The Rostrons (D498) – The Section D Medal. D Jones (E250) – Section E Medal. M Bulled – (J58) – The Runner Up Medal and Section J Medal. Barcelona National 7th July 2023 Award Winners M Gilbert (D1102) – The Harkers Challenge Trophy, Ron Michieson Challenge Trophy, Spanish Challenge Trophy, The Woodsider Trophy, The Doug Horwood Memorial Salver, The Eileen Bunn Memorial Challenge Trophy, The Bert Wiffen Memorial Shield, The Gladys Stephenson Memorial Trophy, The Willcox Trophy, The Ron Youde Memorial Trophy, The Strugglers Open Challenge Cup, The Barcelona Olympic RACE PROGRAMME 2024 AND OTHER INFORMATION
Challenge Cup, The BBC Appreciation Trophy, The Hands & Castree Trophy, The Arthur Bartlett Memorial Trophy, The Albert Padfield “ Blue Riband” Memorial Trophy, The Peter Rigiani Memorial Trophy, The Frank Lloyd Memorial Trophy, The Mr & Mrs Ken Hine Memorial Trophy and Section D Medal. K Foster (G126) – The Bert Bryant Challenge Cup, The Jack Edwards Memorial Trophy, The Ron Bisset Memorial Trophy, The A H Woodward & Son Challenge Cup, The G H Hall Rose Bowl, The Cyril Medway Memorial Trophy and Section D Medal. M Bulled (J58) – The Gordon Hare Challenge Cup, The Hillside Greater Distance Cup, The John Parish Memorial Trophy and Section J Medal. D Gatland (G115) – The Gazette Trophy. D & J Staddon (C38) – The W Gale Cup, The Horace Baker Memorial Trophy, The A G Mullholland & Son Avon Trophy, The Roy Hanney Memorial Trophy, The Reg & Myrtle Venner Memorial Rose Bowl, The Allan Follows Memorial Trophy and Section C Medal. Mr & Mrs Bunney (A803) – The G Stubbs Memorial Trophy, The Mr & Mrs A Brant Cup, The A Hoare & Son Cup and Section A Medal. Mr & Mrs S Fear (D152) – The Middlesex Trophy. Bordeaux National 16th July 2023 Award Winners T Sparks & P Dallas (G86) – The Jane Witts Memorial Trophy, The Master Jason Rigiani Memorial Trophy and Section G Medal. D Reid (G900) – The Guernsey Silver Can and Runner Up Medal. P Basham (A662) – Section A Medal. K Land (B985) – Section B Medal. C & J Howse (C1140) – Section C Medal. Mr & Mrs A Webber & Son – (D677) - Section D Medal. E Hope (E640) – Section E Medal. G Mourant (H141) – Section H Medal. D Coward-Talbot (J5) – Section J Medal. Guernsey YB National 26th August 2023 Award Winners C Neve & Dtr (G370) – The Petlife International Trophy, The M/M F Sopp Trophy and Section G Medal. P & L McMahon (G460) – The Bilco Consolation Trophy and Runners Up Medal. J & M Drain (A103) – Section A Medal. Lanahan & Gerard Loft 2 (B209) - Section B Medal. M Williams (C610) – Section C Medal. M Gilbert (D1102) – Section D Medal. L Bastone (J529) – Section J Medal. Guernsey AA 26th August 2023 Award Winners L & G Gunn (G284) – The Crowley & Green Donated Trophy and Section G Medal. T & J Gunn (G447) – The Runners Up Medal. J Derbyshire (A663) – Section A Medal. S Travers (B18) – Section B Medal. M/M M & C Brown (C77) – Section C Medal.
THE HOME OF LONG DISTANCE PIGEON RACING
On Saturday 7th October the BBC held their end of season meeting to finalise this years racing and put together a race programme for 2024. The consensus of the majority of members and fanciers is that we need to be collaborating with other organisations to save on costs. The 2024 race programme the Committee have put together has done just that to offer our members as much as we can and as cost effectively as we can. Whether you race short, middle or long distance there is something for you. For Nort Sur Erdre, Pau International, Bordeaux and Fougeres YB/OB we will be collaborating with the CSCFC and BICC. Messac and Guernsey YB/OB we will be joining up with the CSCFC. Any other organisations who would like to join us across the Channel you are more than welcome. Old Birds Races Saturday 18th May – Fougeres , £4.00 per bird – Marking Thursday 16th May; Saturday 8th June – Nort Sur Erdre , £4.50 per bird – Marking Thursday 6th June; Friday 21st June – Pau International , £9.50 per bird – Marking Monday 17th June; Saturday 29th June – Messac , £4.00 per bird – Marking Thursday 27th June; Friday 5th July – Barcelona International (cost to be confirmed) – Marking Monday 1st July; Friday 12th July – Bordeaux , £7.00 per bird – Marking Tuesday 9th July. Young Birds & Old Birds Races Saturday 31st August – Guernsey , £3.50 per bird – Marking Thursday 29th August; Saturday 14th September – Fougeres , £4.00 per bird – Marking Thursday 12th September. Remember you can enter one pigeon by the race entry closing date and send extra birds on the day of marking for the same cost per bird. (We do not accept pools and nomina- tions on the day of marking, these must be entered by the race entry closing date). Marking Stations The Marking stations will be: Pau International: – Southampton and Sunbury. Barcelona: – Sunbury. Guernsey YB/OB: – Bovingdon, Brighton, Frome, Higham, Ironbridge and Southampton. Fougeres and Messac: – Frome, Higham, Ironbridge, Southampton and Steventon. Nort Sur Erdre, Bordeaux and Fougeres YB/OB: All BICC marking stations will be available for our members to use. 2024 Subscriptions The subscription fee for 2024 is £40. Anyone wishing to join,
M Gilbert (D1102) – Section D Medal. M Symonds (J208) – Section J Medal. Clare Norman. Tel: 023 8057 3919 Email: secretary@britishbarcelonaclub.com
THE RACING PIGEON 3 NOVEMBER 2023 LOOKING FOR THE BEST OF LUC & HILDE SIOEN? Brother CAMERON, NAIRO, JESSIE, over 30 direct from their very best are producing winners and ace pigeons, eg 10th NATIONAL ACE YB NPO/WHZB 2022, CHAMPION ACE YB SECTION 9 2022, 23.000+ BIRDS, CHAMPION ACE FEDERATION ETC… Interested: mail to info@beverdamracingpigeons.nl
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THE RACING PIGEON 3 NOVEMBER 2023
9 LOOKING FOR THE BEST OF WILLEM DE BRUIJN? OLYMPIC HURRICANE, MURPHY’S LAW, ZIDANE, URANUS, etc. In our lofts we have 30+ direct Willem de Bruijns who are producing the goods for us and our customers. Interested: mail to info@beverdamracingpigeons.nl
THE RACING PIGEON 3 NOVEMBER 2023
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Gwent Greater Distance Club 2023 Season Report ‘Only the Brave’
1148 and 1116 over 273 miles and 3rd R Strawbridge & J Williams of Newport on 1060 over 259 miles . John had a good Channel season with very good returns over the distance. He lost birds, like many others, in the inland races which he uses for preparing his birds for the long distance. In the Pau International, John was 2nd Club, 7th South West BICC Section and 71st Open over 602 miles. He sent three and had two back, the second out of race time. He also had his Barcelona entry back, but this was again just outside of race time. John also timed well in from St Philbert and St Maxient and for a distance man, surprised many my winning the South Road National Flying Club from Guernsey over 160 miles. 14th May St Philbert National 1st R Strawbridge & J Williams of Newport on 1058 over 321 miles, 2nd John Smale of Abergavenny on 1070 over 336 miles and 3rd Mike Jackson of Blackwood on 1053 over 326 miles. Ray timed the same pigeon that took 2nd Club from Alencon. The sire was
sale. I bought him, and my wife Carol bought a hen from a full brother to ‘Imperial’ and ‘In The Genes’ and a half-sister to ‘Imperial’, to pair with him. They have proved to be a great pairing and we were delighted to see this dark chequer cock land to take 1st Club and 1st section, having crossed the Channel from five races this season.” 9th July Guernsey (2) National 1st Mr & Mrs Gardner of Portskewett on 1799 over 144 miles and 2nd and 3rd was J Smale of Abergavenny on 1794 and 1327 over 165 miles. Terry followed up his excellent win from Pau with a short race taking 52nd South West Section BICC. 19th August Guernsey YB (1) National 1st, 2nd & 3rd was John Ludlam of Nelson on 1358, 1355 & 1106 over 152 miles. The sire of John’s winning pigeon, GB23N54011, was bred by Crammond & Langstaff from a son of ‘Kanibal Barcelona’ and a daughter of ‘New Laureate’. ‘Kanibal Barcelona’ was 1st Section Barcelona 2,289 birds, 3rd National Barcelona
Although competing with a reduced member- ship for the 2023 season, the Gwent Greater Distance Club members raced in eight of the BICC races, paying out £680 in prize money. At the AGM in the early part of the year, Mike Jackson took over as Secretary while Joanne Carey continued as Treasurer and Ray Strawbridge as Chairman. Terry Gardner, the RPRA Welsh Region President, become the club President.
Leigh Preece & Jason Lovell.
The club’s next meeting was held on Sunday 29th October at 12.00 at the club’s HQ, Newport Saracens Rugby Club. We will be discussing, among other things, the outcome of the BICC committee meeting held on 22nd October and the possibility of training midweek from Weymouth and having races weekly inland on the south. Any former members and potential new members are welcome to attend. Support will be offered to obtain a CPH number and arrange a loft visit by a vet. There is a lot to look forward to and the committee are already planning for 2024. But this report is to celebrate the winners of 2023 who competed in the Gwent Greater Distance with the BICC. And so, onto the race reports. 14th May BICC Alencon National 1st and 2nd John Smale of Abergavenny on Terry Gardner 1st Club, 1st South West Section BICC.
Precce Bros & Lovell’s chequer hen.
Ray Strawbridge, the Club Chairman.
John Ludlam’s good young bird winner.
GB12 N21593, a blue pied, a son of ‘Barcelona Bob’, 2nd Section, 4th Open Barcelona BICC and 5th Section, 30th Open, Pau BICC. The dam was GB18H48957, a daughter of ‘Sheppard’s Delight’ 1st Section, 8th Open Barcelona BICC, 1st Section, 9th Open, Barcelona BICC. 1st Section, 3rd Open, Barcelona BBC. 11th June St Maixent-Ecole National 1st & 2nd Preece Bros & Lovell of Abertillery on 824 & 870 over 391 miles, 3rd was John Smale on 799 over 397 miles. John Preece said, “We sent 12 birds to St Maixent Ecole and had all 12 home in a very difficult race, our first bird was a chequer two year old Roundabout hen. She has been a good hen scoring four times over the Channel including flying Poitiers from 400 miles as a yearling. She was from a pair of eggs given to us by our good friends Clayton Bros & Lovell. Her sire was one of their top stock cocks and her dam won 1st National Folkstone. This pair have bred fed and National winners for them. Our second bird was a small four year old blue badge Roundabout hen, a winner of numerous prizes over the Channel, including 26th CS Classic Bordeaux later in the year. She contains all of old Bobby Lee, Jeff Davies Lefabre-Dhaenens blood being a grand- daughter of ‘Braveheart’, 1st WSR National, 4th CS Classic Tarbes and ‘Miss Lee’ a Queen’s Cup winner, 1st WSE National Gieson, Polly 1st BICC Falaise and a touch of Geoff Cooper Deweerts from Martin Bynon.” 24th June Pau International 1st Mr & Mrs Gardner of Portskewett on 818
11,641 birds. The dam of GB23N54011 was bred by Mark Gilbert, and she was 28th International Barcelona. John said, “My hen had four inland races and then went to the BICC Guernsey, where she was 1st Gwent Greater Distance Club, 14th South West Section and 326th Open BICC, into a strong west wind. I have not flown many distance races recently, because of Brexit and two years of covid. But hopefully things will change from now on. My feeding is one handful to three birds and I never hopper feed for racing. I feed a Vanrobaeys’ Widowhood mix for racing with different things added as the distance increases. In early September, I pair the young birds with the hens and fly a kind of Roundabout system before I pair up for the long races.” John has been rebuilding his long distance team and has now built a team of young birds and yearlings, who have been over the water. 9th September Guernsey YB (2) National 1st Preece Bros. & Lovell of Abertillery on 540 over 157 miles. The partnership finished their season with a win in the final race. They sent eight and had three home. Their first bird being a blue Darkness hen sent sitting. She contains all Clayton Bros & Lovell bloodlines. That wraps up the season’s report, with the presentation event to be announced soon. But time does not stand still and as mentioned, the planning for next season has already begun. Mike Jackson Secretary
Precce Bros & Lovell’s chequer hen.
over 580 miles, 2nd John Smale of Abergavenny on 564 over 602 miles. A delighted Terry Gardner timed the club and BICC South West Section winner and the first bird into Wales a 9.08am the day after the liber- ation. The father of his pigeon is a direct son of Incredible, the 10 times National and International winner that was housed at stock at Louella Pigeon World. Terry told me, “I had wanted a direct son or daughter off Incredible for years, but they weren’t cheap! I had spoken to Michael Massarella a few times about the possibility, and after a while, he contacted me when an 11 year old breeding cock came up for
John Smale, who reported good returns over the distance.
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