Distance racing

[Albert]

The topic on Grit and Minerals has diverted into something different. I started the topic and not a problem. But I just thought that we would be better starting a new one around what’s being said in that topic.

Dave is asking about long distance racing.
To be honest I have always been more interested in sprint racing. Partly due to the lack of time I have for waiting for birds and I feel this is the best part of distance racing. Seeing one drop after hours on the wing. I know we have ETS nowadays and with the likes of my PAS system I don’t even have to be at home, could be anywhere, as I get a message on my phone when one goes over the pad and can verify from anywhere. But it’s not the same hearing that ping or finding one in the loft than actually seeing one arrive.
I have won Lerwick, which was 650 miles, had pigeons fly Thurso 550 miles and the Pau International 500 miles plus others.
When I came back into the sport after a break I was going to go just for distance racing and joined the NFC, BICC, BBC, CSCFC. For a couple of seasons or so this was the only racing I done. It was going ok. But then we had Brexit where none of them flew over the channel for a year, which didn’t bother me as I was able to race North Road which I always liked anyway. But then we had the new rules regarding vet visits etc to be able to fly the channel. I refuse to get involved with DEFRA after arguments I had with them with my farm. Also I think the cost of channel flying taking into account the cost of vet visits, membership of the various clubs, birdage fees and having to market during the day midweek have made it both difficult and expensive. I resigned from them all and at this stage have no intention of flying the channel again.
Having joined Glastonbury FC three years ago and racing just sprint racing I have enjoyed my racing.
I do however have every respect for those who still fly these distances races and the pigeons that compete in them.

Life's to short Andy.

Not sure what you mean Albert?

I mean life is to short to let DEFRA, influence the way you may want to race Andy, now that retirement is coming, and you have more time on your hands. and I don't really blame DEFRA, for what's happened with channel racing, the blame as far as I am concerned lies with the French and the EU, who are only being difficult as they have been for years if you don't play ball with them.

[Andy]

Life's to short Andy.

Not sure what you mean Albert?

I mean life is to short to let DEFRA, influence the way you may want to race Andy, now that retirement is coming, and you have more time on your hands. and I don't really blame DEFRA, for what's happened with channel racing, the blame as far as I am concerned lies with the French and the EU, who are only being difficult as they have been for years if you don't play ball with them.

Understood Albert.
I may rethink things once I’ve retired. Although I do enjoy just racing a small team of sprinters.

[Donkey Kong]

I think distance racing is harder now than it’s ever been
In fact trying to get your ybs home from a 20 mile toss without being hit is near impossible
Next year God willing the ybs will be let go at 4 at a time