8th International Press Release - The Final Race Part 1
Posted: Fri Mar 01, 2019 11:14 am
“EIGHTH INTERNATIONAL PRESS RELEASE”.
ON
THE FINAL RACE
IN
THE 23rd SOUTH AFRICAN MILLION DOLLAR PIGEON RACE
(THE BIGGEST & GREATEST PIGEON RACE IN THE WORLD!)
(THE RACE WITH THE PROVEN TRACK RECORD)
(THE OLYMPIC GAMES IN THE PIGEON WORLD)
WHICH WAS HELD AT
HERON BANKS GOLF & RIVER ESTATE,
SOUTH AFRICA
ON
SATURDAY 2nd FEBRUARY 2019.
ANOTHER RACE SEASON FINISHES IN THE SOUTH AFRICAN SUNSHINE.
THE UNITED KINGDOM TEAM had a really fantastic race and won the following
OPEN positions:- 23rd, 27th, 33rd, 36th, 45th, 49th, 67th, 84th, 91st, 92nd,
105th, 107th, 136th, 138th, 147th, 186th, 194th, 200th, 210th, 239th, 248th, 252nd, 282nd & 299th OPEN and won US$39,800 (£31,840) in Prize Money, plus one fancier purchased an Un-Activated Pigeon and it won 28th & won him US$3,500 (£2,800) in Prize Money. UK fanciers also won US$11,696 (£9,357) in the Nominations. TOTAL WINNINGS were US$54,996 (£43,997).
THE IRISH TEAM also had a very good race and won the following OPEN positions:- 56th, 106th, 111th, 116th, 134th, 135th, 211th, 258th, 265th, 284th & 287th OPEN and US$12,000 (£9,600) in Prize Money. TOTAL WINNINGS were US$12,000 (£9,600).
THE TOP 50 PIGEONS SOLD AT AUCTION FOR A STAGGERING ZAR6.251500 MILLION SOUTH AFRICAN RANDS, WHICH EQUATES TO US$465,141 OR £353,792 OR E403,583. AN AVERAGE SELLING PRICE OF ZAR125,030 OR US$9,303 OR £7,076 EACH OR E8,072. THIS JUST GOES TO SHOW THE VALUE THAT PIGEON FANCIERS AROUND THE WORLD PUT ON PIGEONS THAT WIN IN THE SAMDPR.
Firstly, let me apologise for the lateness of this International Press Release but as
most of you know I also treat this race as my annual holiday and whilst I am in South Africa for the race, I also like to visit other parts of this outstanding continent. This time I also decided to stay a few extra days and take in the Auction of the top 50 pigeons in the 23rd SAMDPR. Over the past twenty-three years I have visited plenty of different areas and have loved them all. Anybody that is thinking of entering the race in the future or travelling out to South Africa for the race or a holiday, I will be only too pleased to offer them some advice on where are some of the most exciting places to visit on your trip. I arrived with Tad Truszkowski at Emerald Resort Hotel about 9am on Tuesday 20th January 2019.
On the Wednesday morning we had agreed to meet Sara Blackshaw at Heron Banks
Golf & River Estate to play a few holes of golf and then have a few beers and a light
lunch in the clubhouse. We were greeted by Gary Lance who owns the golf club and
he said he would meet us later for a drink. After the golf, drinks and food it was back to Emerald Resort to meet a few other fanciers that were checking in during the day. As we walked in we were greeted by Richard Newton and Andrea Taylor,
Gerry McCourt and Kathleen, Karl & Nicola Donnelly and Megan & Riley, and we joined them for a few drinks before going back to get showered and changed for the evening. We all met later and Tad and myself went out to the Breeze Restaurant for a meal before returning for a few more drinks with fanciers at the bar.
Thursday morning soon dawned and it was time to go for breakfast, where we once
again met lots of fanciers we had not seen since last year. After breakfast it was time for the pigeons to be basketed for The 23rd SAMDPR, the loft staff now have this off to a fine art. Soon the basketing and loading of the baskets was completed and the transporter took them on a short journey to the E&E Centre at Emerald Resort, Hotel & Casino just across the Vaal River in Vanderbijlpark where the pigeons were to be basketed for the Final Race. The transporter arrived and the pigeons were unloaded and everything was set up at the E&E Centre at the Emerald Resort to start the race marking at about 12 o’clock and four marking tables were already set up and ready to go, the Auditors EW Coetzee & Associates were again all present and there were lots of willing fanciers were waiting to help with the basketing of the pigeons. The full baskets were taken off the transporter and into the E&E Centre and basketing officially started about 12.30. Corrie Naude explained the marking procedure to those fanciers that had offered to assist and soon we were on our way to get all the pigeons race marked. Everybody was complimenting the loft staff and race organisers the way the pigeons handled and many fanciers that have done this race marking for numerous years stated it was the best condition the pigeons had ever been in. This after a very trying and testing year in training and racing because of the heavy rain, thunderstorms and extreme temperatures during the race series, plus of course because training had actually started later than usual. However, as is usual with this great international race, if the pigeons are basketed for this Final Race then they sure are ready for their final hurdle. After about four hours the task was finally completed and thanks must go to all the pigeon fanciers and friends that assisted us during the race marking because without their help this massive task would have taken much longer to achieve. A few pigeons were taken out because of injuries and these were placed in separate baskets for the Veterinary Officer Dr. Piet van Zyl to check them out and in total 12 pigeons were withdrawn from the race as not being fit to compete. A few pigeons were given new electronic ring and these details were then added to the database and finally at about 17.00 the Auditors finally announced that we had basketed a total of 2,531 pigeons from 40 different countries for the 23rd SAMDPR.
After this massive task we all made our way back to the Emerald Resort Hotel which would be our base for the next few days to have a few drinks at the bar. After a few beers to unwind with fanciers from many different countries, it was off to the room to get showered and changed before going out for another event which had been organised for about 7pm on Thursday evening the race organisers had laid on something special and this was a two-hour sunset “BOOZE CRUISE” up and down the Vaal River which included drinks, light meals, refreshments and canapes. This was attended by lots of fanciers and friends and turned out to be a lovely way to start an event, the weather was fantastic and as we made our way back everybody experienced a fantastic African sunset. A fabulous evening was enjoyed by all that were present. It was also great to see all the loft lads present and enjoying themselves and meeting some of the pigeon fanciers from all over the world. Back to the bar in the hotel to have a few drinks and meet other fanciers which had arrived throughout the day and early evening.
Friday morning dawned and Sara Blackshaw (Director of Air Sport Internationale, The Presenters of the Race) had arranged for a Country Co-ordinator’s meeting to take place at 08.30 in the Kilimanjaro Room. Also in attendance were Michael Holt (Race Director), Pieter Saayman (Systems Administrator), Willi van Beers (Loft Manager), Marion Branford (Administration), Maitland White Blackshaw (Loft Assistant), Paul Smith (International Race Co-ordinator) and all the Country Race Co-ordinator’s that were attending the race. It is always an interesting meeting because you get different views from numerous countries. The trial period for 3 to 4 pigeons was now over and from now on it would be only teams of 4 pigeons from the 24th SAMDPR. Numerous other items were raised and discussed. Quarantine issues were talked about and minuted. Having three races a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays had been tried and was successful. Prize Money and Entry Fees was discussed and everybody will be notified of any changes or additions to the current structure. The new state of the art Benzing Electronic Clocking System had been fitted and completed and had worked well all through the race series. The meeting finally came to a close because two special events had also been arranged for later in the morning and they were a golf and a fishing tournament for those that wanted to participate. This meeting took about two hours and numerous things were discussed and then minuted.
I had entered the third SAMDPR 18 hole golf tournament, along with Tad, Sara and about 20 other pigeon fanciers from literally all over the world. The weather was ideal for golf and it was decided to play a best two ball score competition as it would be a quicker game. The plan was we played 9 holes and then stop for a beer/wine and a light lunch, kindly supplied by Air Sport Internationale, after this break we would then continue to play the last 9 holes. A very civilised way to play a golf tournament I thought. Thanks to Gary Lance, the owner of Heron Banks Golf & River Golf Club and all his staff for making us all so welcome. The winning team was led by Hein Beneke and three other golfers from South Africa and their team finished with 97 points. Our team of only three players finished second just one point behind with 96 points. A really close finish and enjoyed by all who participated.
I did not enter the first fishing competition on the Vaal River as I was playing golf but according to all those that participated it was a great way to spend a few hours. Air Sport Internationale had hired all the fishing rods and purchased the bait and I believe from what I was told it was exceptionally well supported and whilst there were not too many fish caught but as usual there were lots of stories about the one that got away. After the competition finished they all had a braai and a few drinks supplied by Air Sport Internationale. Well done to Willi van Beers for assisting with organising this extra bit of fun. Mike Ganus from United States of America was the winner with a really good fish, weighing it at 3.975kg, rumour has it he brought his own bait over from the States. Well if you have to do that to win, it must be worth it. No all joking apart, well done Mike on yet another 1st SAMDPR.
Another new venture was to hold a Ten Pin Bowling Competition after the fishing and the golf had finished and Mike Ganus was left in charge to organised this event. Quite a few players turned up for this competition and they all had a really great time. However, the winner turned out to be Mike Ganus from United States of America, who I was told by another competitor that he looked like a professional bowler. Seems like he did something else bar racing and breeding pigeons in his younger days. Well done Mike on yet another 1st SAMDPR.
For those that did not to participate in any of these activities this was a day of rest for most but for those involved in making sure the race goes ahead it was work as usual as everything had to be set up in the E&E Centre in the fantastic Emerald Resort, so that all visitors can enjoy the race during Saturday.
Friday evening at 19.30 was the Welcome Cocktail Party in the Kilimanjaro Room in the Emerald Resort Hotel, which was right next to the Restaurant and Bar area. The setting was outstanding and place was packed and food and drinks were available. After about one hour Sara Blackshaw took to the stage and gave a report on tomorrow’s race and she wished everybody success. The pigeons had arrived safely at the race point and had been fed and watered ready for the early morning liberation from Colesberg 521km (324 miles). Then with the assistance of Joan-e Holt (Public Relations) the race sponsors and all the Country Co-ordinator’s that were present were called up to the stage and given a small gift for all their hard work and efforts over the past year. The Official Race Sponsors were then called to the stage and they were as follows:- Peter Furstenberg from Shine Interactive, Keith McLintock & Brett Lindsay from Big Brave Digital, Deirdre Kallmeyer from African Olive Travels Concepts, Dr. Henk De Weerd from Belgica De Weerd Clinic, Sudhoff Veterinary, Brother Copiers, Medpet, Turf Pet Hyper, Benzing Electronic Clocking System, Frank Nebig from Animals To Fly (Shipping), The Racing Pigeon & International Pictorial and Pigeons On Line. Also two very special mentions were for Heron Banks Golf & River Estate and of course Emerald Resort, Casino & Hotel. All of these were met with great applaud and the Country Co-ordinator’s that were present then had a team photograph taken. Then Sara Blackshaw announced the winners of the three special competitions held earlier in the day, and the winners of the golf tournament were Hein Beneke and his team from South Africa, unfortunately nobody was present to pick up the trophy from Sara Blackshaw. The winner of the fishing tournament was Mike Ganus from United States of America and he proudly walked to the stage to pick up the trophy, he was applauded by those present and I am sure he will be back to defend his title next year. Then it was the turn to present the winner of the Ten Pin Bowling Competition and once again it was Mike Ganus from United States of America who was the winner and once again he was applauded as he collected his trophy. Another double for this great fancier. He really came to win THE SOUTH AFRICAN MILLION DOLLAR PIGEON RACE but walked away with two nice trophies for his efforts. Just as well Mike does not play golf because he could have won all three competitions. Yet another well supported event and place was buzzing with excitement for what tomorrow might bring for one lucky fancier or syndicate. When the event ended it was a short move to the outside in a marquee with its own bar and waiters for some live music with our resident singer John Dragon from Ireland, who now works in Tenerife most of the time, who kept everybody entertained until the early hours and a great time was had by all who were present. It really was a great way to finish off a wonderful day.
Saturday morning dawned and we went down for breakfast, it was a beautiful day for a pigeon race, albeit the wind was a bit on the fresh side.
THE FINAL RACE took place on Saturday 2nd February 2019 and liberation was at 06.00 from Colesberg 521km (324 miles), fine and cool conditions with a light North East wind and no storms were forecast and it looked like a perfect day for a race of this quality. The race entry consisted of 2,531 pigeons from 40 different countries and was made up as follows:- Australia 4, Austria 17, Bahrain 2, Belgium 111, Bosnia & Herzegovina 1, Bulgaria 11, Canada 43, China 16, Croatia 2, Czech Republic 52, Denmark 29, Egypt 6, France 15, Germany 579, Greece 4, Iraq 3, Ireland 58, Italy 16, Kuwait 220, Moldova 1, Morocco 2, Namibia 3, Netherlands 101, Norway 10, Poland 65, Portugal 4, Puerto Rico 2, Qatar 17, Romania 50, Saudi Arabia 41, Slovakia 25, Slovenia 1, South Africa 580, Spain 7, Sweden 3, Switzerland 11, Trinidad 2, United Arab Emirates 26, United Kingdom 138 and United States of America 253. This total was made up of 1,951 International pigeons and 580 pigeons from South Africa.
There were just 12 pigeons in the Hold Back List that were not basketed because they had been deemed unfit to compete by the Veterinary Officer Dr. Piet van Zyl, these were made up as follows:- 1 from Germany, 1 from Iraq, 1 from Italy, 3 from Kuwait, 5 from South Africa and 1 from United Kingdom. If any of these were paid up entries the owners will get a refund as per the rules of the race.
After a nice breakfast we made our way over to the E&E Centre and it was starting to fill up with many fanciers from all over the world, plus of course lots of South African fanciers and friends that were turning up to enjoy the race day activities. It was good to see the trade stands that had supported this event doing good business and my friend for many years Allan Jordaan was interviewing fanciers and other people on the stage. Food and drinks were available and the big screen on the stage was showing the Hot Spot Car Races that had taken place during the 2018/19 race series. Then the Final Race liberation was shown on the two big screens in the hall, it really was a great liberation and the pigeons cleared the race point in minutes. Lunch had been laid on in the E&E Centre for all that had tickets and that started at 12 noon and the tables were soon full of pigeon fanciers and friends from all over the world having a good time and talking about what might be about to happen, all hoping that the first pigeon over the winning line would be theirs or if not one from a fellow countryman or somebody they knew.
The E&E Centre was filling up and it was estimated that there were around 1,500 fanciers and friends in the hall and numbers were still increasing. Lots of fanciers had travelled from all over South Africa to view and be part of the race as it actually happened and to be part of a wonderful experience. I finally left the E&E Centre for the race loft with Michael Holt and Pieter Saayman at about 12.30 and we arrived at the loft about 10 minutes later, everything was already set up and ready to go, all the final checks were done and found to be working perfectly and it was now time to start looking into the sky. I predicated the winning pigeon would take about eight to eight and a half hours to cover the 324 mile journey, just around 40 miles per hour, so my estimated arrival time would be between 14.00/14.30. However, as usual I was out spotting well before this estimated arrival time. Then all of a sudden at 14.17 a small gang of 4 pigeons came bang on line hit the trapping area and were all clocked within 9 seconds of each other, everybody present now held their breath hoping it was their pigeon that went through the trap first, then the massive screens showed the winning pigeon to take 1st OPEN was TEAM BRANDY with pigeon named PREMIER MY PRICE clocked at 14.17.36.90 and bred by MANFRED SCHMIDT & MARTINA BAU from GERMANY. Then 2nd OPEN went to RUNE RASMUSSEN from DENMARK, 3rd OPEN went to HOLTS LOFT from UNITED STATES of AMERICA, 4th OPEN went to PIPA ELITE CENTER from BELGIUM. Just 3 minutes later a further 4 pigeons arrived bang on line at 14.20, these were all clocked within 29 seconds, followed by another small gang at 14.22 and another small gang at 14.25. See the results below for the top 50 pigeons or go onto http://www.samdpr.com to view the full race result. The pigeons continued to roll in all afternoon with all 300 cash prize being taken by 18.36.
LIVESTREAM (YOUTUBE’S NEW LIVE BROADCASTING PLATFORM) was available to watch online on the SAMDPR Website and pigeon fanciers from literally all over the world were logging on to watch the race unfold. Keith McLintock & Brett Lindsay and Big Brave Digital and staff are the company involved with this side of the race. The figures run into thousands watching at the same time. Keith Lindsay was at the race loft doing interviews were going out live, plus Facebook and Twitter. These were seen by thousands of fanciers, friends and people all over the world. The work and effort these guys put into doing this job professionally is remarkable, everything has to be done correctly for it to be seen by all who log on to watch what they cover. They also filmed at all the 5 Hot Spot Car Races and the liberation and of course The Final Race. This gives all the pigeon fanciers or interested parties all over the world the chance to view these events LIVE and as they actually happen. THESE GUYS DO A SUPERB JOB AND ARE WORTH THEIR WEIGHT IN GOLD. Special words of praise must also go to Keith McLintock & Brett Lindsay and staff from Big Brave Digital and also to Peter Furstenberg and his staff from Shine Interactive, they do a wonderful job with all the media and technical worldwide coverage, that is watched literally all over the world. They do a magnificent job. KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK GUYS.
CONGRATULATIONS ON WINNING THE COVETED 1st OPEN PRIZE went to TEAM BRANDY from GERMANY with their superb pigeon named PREMIER MY PRICE ring number DV-01233-18-2080 bred by MANFRED SCHMIDT & MARTINA BAU which was officially clocked at 14.17.36.90 to record a velocity of 1149ypm, 1047 m/m, 17.45 m/s (39mph) winning a GOLD MEDAL, SUPERB TROPHY, WINNER’S JACKET and THE WINNER’S CHEQUE for US$200,000 (£160,000). Also winning Open and German Nominations, plus the Zandy Meyer Memorial Mercedes SLK Car Nomination and walked away with a staggering total of US$293,429 (£234,743).
This pigeon then sold for an amazing ZAR350,000 SOUTH AFRICAN RAND (US$26,042) to Mike Ganus from United States of America. Then 2nd Open Rune Rasmussen from Denmark with pigeon named Okutanrune bred by Rune Rasmussen & Mustafa Okutan, which was officially clocked at 14.17.38.08, winning a GOLD MEDAL, Trophy and US$125,000 (£100,000), 3rd Open Holts Loft from United States of America with pigeon named Little Spirit bred by Tim Holt which was officially clocked at 14.17.38.98, winning a GOLD MEDAL, Trophy and US$75,000 (£60,000), 4th Open PIPA Elite Center from Belgium with pigeon named PEC 467 bred by PIPA Elite Center, winning GOLD MEDAL, Trophy and US$50,000 (£40,000), this pigeon was officially clocked at 14.17.45.82, 5th Open Ken Easley from United States of America with pigeon named BB 8 bred by Ken Easley winning a GOLD MEDAL, Trophy and US$35,000 (£28,000), this pigeon was officially clocked at 14.20.01.78, this pigeon also won the KNOCKOUT COMPETITION and US$25,000 (£20,000), 6th Open Team Valya + Rosen Dobrevi from Bulgaria with pigeon named Miss Kriss bred by Team Valya + Rosen Dobrevi winning a GOLD MEDAL, Trophy and US$20,000 (£16,000), this pigeon was officially clocked at 14.20.08.61, 7th Open Club Pretoria Oos Wedvlugduiwe Klub from South Africa with pigeon named Jadzia bred by Triple J Lofts winning a GOLD MEDAL, Trophy and US$17,500 (£14,000), this pigeon was officially clocked at 14.20.11.10, 8th Open Ganus Family Loft from United States of America with pigeon named JAZZ MAN bred by Mike Ganus winning a GOLD MEDAL, Trophy and US$15,000 (£12,000), this pigeon was officially clocked at 14.20.32.17, 9th Open SG Eschenberg u Sohn from Germany with pigeon named Gusion bred by Eschenberg u Sohn winning a GOLD MEDAL, Trophy and US$12,500 (£10,000), this pigeon was officially clocked at 14.22.22.07, 10th Open Rivera Loft from United States of America with pigeon named AMA1 bred by Jose Rivera winning a GOLD MEDAL, Trophy and US$10,000 (£8,000), this pigeon was officially clocked at 14.22.48.15, 11th Open Club Ignacio Dorronsoro from United States of America with pigeon named Lucia 2 bred by Ignacio Dorronsoro winning US$7,000 (£5,600), 12th Open Ervin Laro from Italy with pigeon named World Champion Rankin bred by Ervin Laro winning US$7,000 (£5,600), 13th Open Juergen Stefaniszyn from Germany with pigeon named Sylt Lilla 6 bred by Juergen Stefaniszyn winning US$7,000 (£5,600), 14th Open Ervin Laro from Italy with pigeon named Ivano bred by Ervin Laro winning US$7,000 (£5,600), this pigeon and the one that took 12th Open won the 2-Bird Average & US$2,000, 15th Open Ringostar Syndicate from Kuwait with pigeon named Naser 8 bred by Abdullah Buhemeed winning US$7,000 (£5,600), 16th Open Robert Darr – Donald Bicknell from United States of America with pigeon named DB12 bred by Robert Darr – Donald Bicknell winning US$5,000 (£4,000), 17th Open Robert Darr – Donald Bicknell from United States of America with pigeon named DB41 bred by Robert Darr – Donald Bicknell winning US$5,000 (£4,000), 18th Open Alp Race Team from Switzerland with pigeon named Bluebell bred by Simon Wolf winning US$5,000 (£4,000), 19th Open Team Sasse - Wezel from Germany with pigeon named NL CdD – Hurri 3 bred by SG Sasse winning US$5,000 (£4,000), 20th Open Johann Seitz from Germany with pigeon named M 938 bred by Johann Seitz winning US$5,000 (£4,000), 21st Open Team Sigi from Germany with pigeon named Schneewitteken bred by Sigrun Kehrer winning US$3,500 (£2,800), 22nd Open Kevin Lee from United States of America with pigeon named Targoviste745x35521 bred by Kevin Li winning US$3,500 (£2,800), 23rd Open Team Ettrick from United Kingdom with pigeon named Ettrick Angle bred by Bobby Dalziel winning US$3,500 (£2,800), 24th Open E Tufte – O Hegland from Denmark with pigeon named Ole 1 bred by Ole Hegland winning US$3,500 (£2,800) and 25th Open Team Pahnke - Gockel from Germany with pigeon named Golden Blackjack bred by Erhard Pahnke winning US$3,500 (£2,800). There are another 275 Cash Prizes that were won. For the full race result please log on to the official SAMDPR Website http://www.samdpr.com where you can see what time all the pigeons were officially clocked and what they all actually won. CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL THE WINNERS ON THE DAY.
There were 300 cash prizes so that means another 275 cash prizes were up for grabs. I would love to list all 300 winners but unfortunately, limited space does not allow this to happen. A total of 339 pigeons were officially clocked on the day up to 19.28 and 4 of these were NON-ACTIVATED PIGEONS or DEFAULTER PIGEONS. One pigeon was clocked during the darkness at 01.30. There were 9 different countries represented in the top 20 and 8 minutes 04.45 seconds between these pigeons. The top 50 pigeons had 14 different countries represented in this result and there was 43 minutes 01.41 seconds between the top 50 and then a total of 22 different countries were represented in the top 100 in the Open in this race and there was 1 hour 40 minutes 58.51 seconds between the top 100 in this race. A total of 1,205 pigeons had been officially clocked by Sunday evening, then 1,299 by Monday evening. More pigeons were clocked over the next few days bring the total to 1,374 pigeons. A later Loft List on the SAMDPR Web Site shows 1,414 pigeons have made it back to the loft in Heron Banks Golf & River Estate. More pigeons will work back, so if yours is still missing, keep your eye on the Loft Lists as these will be updated as pigeons return back to the race loft. Full results can be seen on http://www.samdpr.com
CONGRATULATIONS ON WINNING 1st UNITED KINGDOM, 23rd OPEN went to TEAM ETTRICK with pigeon named ETTRICK ANGLE bred by BOBBY DALZIEL from SELKIRK, which was officially clocked at 14.27.01.36 which won a cool US$3,500 (£2,800) for its efforts. Well done Bobby, your first attempt at the SAMDPR, your pigeons did exceptionally well right through the race series. Then 2nd UK, 27th Open Scotland’s Own Syndicate with pigeon named Young Reekie bred by W. Kinnear & Son from Edinburgh, which won US$3,500 (£2,800), 3rd UK, 33rd Open Paul Smith Syndicate with pigeon named Stansted Gold Charm bred by Kevin Hibbert from Rotherham, which won US$3,000 (£2,400), 4th UK, 36th Open TadT with pigeon named Big Bopper bred by Tad Truszkowski and Vince Crossley from Melton Mowbray, which won US$3,000 (£2,400), 5th UK, 45th Open Millys Loft with pigeon named Dundee Babe bred by Michael Mellor from Crewe, which won US$2,500 (£2,000), 6th UK, 49th Open another for Paul Smith Syndicate with pigeon named Stansted Gold Bullet bred by Kevin Hibbert from Rotherham, which won US$2,500 (£2,000), 7th UK, 67th Open another for Team Ettrick with pigeon named Ettrick Pride bred by Booby Dalziel from Selkirk, which won US$2,000 (£1,600), 8th UK, 84th Open Zandys Dream Team with pigeon named Zandys Princess bred by Paul Smith from Stansted Mountfitchet, which won US$1,750 (£1,400), 9th UK, 91st Open Rixshaw with pigeon named Diddy Man bred by Len Rix from Mildenhall, which won US$1,750 (£1,400), 10th UK, 92nd Open another for Millys Loft with pigeon named Hot Dundee, which won US$1,750 (£1,400), 11th UK, 105th Open Brian Clayburn with pigeon named Duration bred by Brian Clayburn from Ackworth, which won US$1,500 (£1,200), 12th UK, 107th Open another for Brian Clayburn with pigeon named Another Touch bred by Brian Clayburn from Ackworth, which won US$1,500 (£1,200), 13th UK, 136th Open
Bet-Right Lofts with pigeon named Solo bred by Jeremy Wright from Lutterworth, which won US$1,250 (£1,000), 14th UK, 138th Open John Cooper with pigeon named Welsh Boy with pigeon bred by John Cooper from Pontypridd, which won US$1,250 (£1,000), 15th UK, 147th Open Obelisk Syndicate with pigeon named Blue Obelisk with pigeon bred by the late Derek Nicholls from Premier Stud and entered by Clive Barrett from Taunton, which won US$1,250 (£1,000), 16th UK, 186th Open another for Zandys Dream Team with pigeon named Zandys Dynasty bred Paul Smith from Stansted Mountfitchet, which won US$1,100 (£880), 17th UK, 194th Open another for Bet-Right Lofts with pigeon named Blue Train bred by M. Betts and entered by Jeremy Wright from Lutterworth, which won US$1,100 (£880),18th UK, 200th Open Team Lincs with pigeon named Waddington bred by Paul & Tracey Stacey from Sleaford, which won US$1,100 (£880), 19th UK, 210th Open another for Team Lincs with pigeon named Cadney bred by Paul & Tracey Stacey from Sleaford, which won US$1,000 (£800), 20th UK, 239th Open another for Millys Loft with pigeon named Not You Again Dundee bred by Michael Mellor from Crewe, which won US$1,000 (£800), 21st UK, 248th Open another for Millys Loft with pigeon named Pull The Pin Dundee bred by Michael Mellor from Crewe, which won US$1,000 (£800), 22nd UK, 252nd Open Team Islwyn with pigeon named Ben bred by Robert Jones from Port Talbot which won US$500 (£400), 23rd UK, 282nd Open another for Zandys Dream Team with pigeon named Zandys Prince bred by Paul Smith from Stansted Mountfitchet, which won US$500 (£400)
and 24th UK, 299th Open Pet Shop Boys & Girls with pigeon named Astons Girl bred by John Alderslade from Bridlington, which won US$500 (£400). A total of 83 United Kingdom pigeons were officially recorded, which was a fantastic result for the UK Team. WELL DONE TO ALL, A FANTASTIC TEAM PERFORMANCE.
ON
THE FINAL RACE
IN
THE 23rd SOUTH AFRICAN MILLION DOLLAR PIGEON RACE
(THE BIGGEST & GREATEST PIGEON RACE IN THE WORLD!)
(THE RACE WITH THE PROVEN TRACK RECORD)
(THE OLYMPIC GAMES IN THE PIGEON WORLD)
WHICH WAS HELD AT
HERON BANKS GOLF & RIVER ESTATE,
SOUTH AFRICA
ON
SATURDAY 2nd FEBRUARY 2019.
ANOTHER RACE SEASON FINISHES IN THE SOUTH AFRICAN SUNSHINE.
THE UNITED KINGDOM TEAM had a really fantastic race and won the following
OPEN positions:- 23rd, 27th, 33rd, 36th, 45th, 49th, 67th, 84th, 91st, 92nd,
105th, 107th, 136th, 138th, 147th, 186th, 194th, 200th, 210th, 239th, 248th, 252nd, 282nd & 299th OPEN and won US$39,800 (£31,840) in Prize Money, plus one fancier purchased an Un-Activated Pigeon and it won 28th & won him US$3,500 (£2,800) in Prize Money. UK fanciers also won US$11,696 (£9,357) in the Nominations. TOTAL WINNINGS were US$54,996 (£43,997).
THE IRISH TEAM also had a very good race and won the following OPEN positions:- 56th, 106th, 111th, 116th, 134th, 135th, 211th, 258th, 265th, 284th & 287th OPEN and US$12,000 (£9,600) in Prize Money. TOTAL WINNINGS were US$12,000 (£9,600).
THE TOP 50 PIGEONS SOLD AT AUCTION FOR A STAGGERING ZAR6.251500 MILLION SOUTH AFRICAN RANDS, WHICH EQUATES TO US$465,141 OR £353,792 OR E403,583. AN AVERAGE SELLING PRICE OF ZAR125,030 OR US$9,303 OR £7,076 EACH OR E8,072. THIS JUST GOES TO SHOW THE VALUE THAT PIGEON FANCIERS AROUND THE WORLD PUT ON PIGEONS THAT WIN IN THE SAMDPR.
Firstly, let me apologise for the lateness of this International Press Release but as
most of you know I also treat this race as my annual holiday and whilst I am in South Africa for the race, I also like to visit other parts of this outstanding continent. This time I also decided to stay a few extra days and take in the Auction of the top 50 pigeons in the 23rd SAMDPR. Over the past twenty-three years I have visited plenty of different areas and have loved them all. Anybody that is thinking of entering the race in the future or travelling out to South Africa for the race or a holiday, I will be only too pleased to offer them some advice on where are some of the most exciting places to visit on your trip. I arrived with Tad Truszkowski at Emerald Resort Hotel about 9am on Tuesday 20th January 2019.
On the Wednesday morning we had agreed to meet Sara Blackshaw at Heron Banks
Golf & River Estate to play a few holes of golf and then have a few beers and a light
lunch in the clubhouse. We were greeted by Gary Lance who owns the golf club and
he said he would meet us later for a drink. After the golf, drinks and food it was back to Emerald Resort to meet a few other fanciers that were checking in during the day. As we walked in we were greeted by Richard Newton and Andrea Taylor,
Gerry McCourt and Kathleen, Karl & Nicola Donnelly and Megan & Riley, and we joined them for a few drinks before going back to get showered and changed for the evening. We all met later and Tad and myself went out to the Breeze Restaurant for a meal before returning for a few more drinks with fanciers at the bar.
Thursday morning soon dawned and it was time to go for breakfast, where we once
again met lots of fanciers we had not seen since last year. After breakfast it was time for the pigeons to be basketed for The 23rd SAMDPR, the loft staff now have this off to a fine art. Soon the basketing and loading of the baskets was completed and the transporter took them on a short journey to the E&E Centre at Emerald Resort, Hotel & Casino just across the Vaal River in Vanderbijlpark where the pigeons were to be basketed for the Final Race. The transporter arrived and the pigeons were unloaded and everything was set up at the E&E Centre at the Emerald Resort to start the race marking at about 12 o’clock and four marking tables were already set up and ready to go, the Auditors EW Coetzee & Associates were again all present and there were lots of willing fanciers were waiting to help with the basketing of the pigeons. The full baskets were taken off the transporter and into the E&E Centre and basketing officially started about 12.30. Corrie Naude explained the marking procedure to those fanciers that had offered to assist and soon we were on our way to get all the pigeons race marked. Everybody was complimenting the loft staff and race organisers the way the pigeons handled and many fanciers that have done this race marking for numerous years stated it was the best condition the pigeons had ever been in. This after a very trying and testing year in training and racing because of the heavy rain, thunderstorms and extreme temperatures during the race series, plus of course because training had actually started later than usual. However, as is usual with this great international race, if the pigeons are basketed for this Final Race then they sure are ready for their final hurdle. After about four hours the task was finally completed and thanks must go to all the pigeon fanciers and friends that assisted us during the race marking because without their help this massive task would have taken much longer to achieve. A few pigeons were taken out because of injuries and these were placed in separate baskets for the Veterinary Officer Dr. Piet van Zyl to check them out and in total 12 pigeons were withdrawn from the race as not being fit to compete. A few pigeons were given new electronic ring and these details were then added to the database and finally at about 17.00 the Auditors finally announced that we had basketed a total of 2,531 pigeons from 40 different countries for the 23rd SAMDPR.
After this massive task we all made our way back to the Emerald Resort Hotel which would be our base for the next few days to have a few drinks at the bar. After a few beers to unwind with fanciers from many different countries, it was off to the room to get showered and changed before going out for another event which had been organised for about 7pm on Thursday evening the race organisers had laid on something special and this was a two-hour sunset “BOOZE CRUISE” up and down the Vaal River which included drinks, light meals, refreshments and canapes. This was attended by lots of fanciers and friends and turned out to be a lovely way to start an event, the weather was fantastic and as we made our way back everybody experienced a fantastic African sunset. A fabulous evening was enjoyed by all that were present. It was also great to see all the loft lads present and enjoying themselves and meeting some of the pigeon fanciers from all over the world. Back to the bar in the hotel to have a few drinks and meet other fanciers which had arrived throughout the day and early evening.
Friday morning dawned and Sara Blackshaw (Director of Air Sport Internationale, The Presenters of the Race) had arranged for a Country Co-ordinator’s meeting to take place at 08.30 in the Kilimanjaro Room. Also in attendance were Michael Holt (Race Director), Pieter Saayman (Systems Administrator), Willi van Beers (Loft Manager), Marion Branford (Administration), Maitland White Blackshaw (Loft Assistant), Paul Smith (International Race Co-ordinator) and all the Country Race Co-ordinator’s that were attending the race. It is always an interesting meeting because you get different views from numerous countries. The trial period for 3 to 4 pigeons was now over and from now on it would be only teams of 4 pigeons from the 24th SAMDPR. Numerous other items were raised and discussed. Quarantine issues were talked about and minuted. Having three races a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays had been tried and was successful. Prize Money and Entry Fees was discussed and everybody will be notified of any changes or additions to the current structure. The new state of the art Benzing Electronic Clocking System had been fitted and completed and had worked well all through the race series. The meeting finally came to a close because two special events had also been arranged for later in the morning and they were a golf and a fishing tournament for those that wanted to participate. This meeting took about two hours and numerous things were discussed and then minuted.
I had entered the third SAMDPR 18 hole golf tournament, along with Tad, Sara and about 20 other pigeon fanciers from literally all over the world. The weather was ideal for golf and it was decided to play a best two ball score competition as it would be a quicker game. The plan was we played 9 holes and then stop for a beer/wine and a light lunch, kindly supplied by Air Sport Internationale, after this break we would then continue to play the last 9 holes. A very civilised way to play a golf tournament I thought. Thanks to Gary Lance, the owner of Heron Banks Golf & River Golf Club and all his staff for making us all so welcome. The winning team was led by Hein Beneke and three other golfers from South Africa and their team finished with 97 points. Our team of only three players finished second just one point behind with 96 points. A really close finish and enjoyed by all who participated.
I did not enter the first fishing competition on the Vaal River as I was playing golf but according to all those that participated it was a great way to spend a few hours. Air Sport Internationale had hired all the fishing rods and purchased the bait and I believe from what I was told it was exceptionally well supported and whilst there were not too many fish caught but as usual there were lots of stories about the one that got away. After the competition finished they all had a braai and a few drinks supplied by Air Sport Internationale. Well done to Willi van Beers for assisting with organising this extra bit of fun. Mike Ganus from United States of America was the winner with a really good fish, weighing it at 3.975kg, rumour has it he brought his own bait over from the States. Well if you have to do that to win, it must be worth it. No all joking apart, well done Mike on yet another 1st SAMDPR.
Another new venture was to hold a Ten Pin Bowling Competition after the fishing and the golf had finished and Mike Ganus was left in charge to organised this event. Quite a few players turned up for this competition and they all had a really great time. However, the winner turned out to be Mike Ganus from United States of America, who I was told by another competitor that he looked like a professional bowler. Seems like he did something else bar racing and breeding pigeons in his younger days. Well done Mike on yet another 1st SAMDPR.
For those that did not to participate in any of these activities this was a day of rest for most but for those involved in making sure the race goes ahead it was work as usual as everything had to be set up in the E&E Centre in the fantastic Emerald Resort, so that all visitors can enjoy the race during Saturday.
Friday evening at 19.30 was the Welcome Cocktail Party in the Kilimanjaro Room in the Emerald Resort Hotel, which was right next to the Restaurant and Bar area. The setting was outstanding and place was packed and food and drinks were available. After about one hour Sara Blackshaw took to the stage and gave a report on tomorrow’s race and she wished everybody success. The pigeons had arrived safely at the race point and had been fed and watered ready for the early morning liberation from Colesberg 521km (324 miles). Then with the assistance of Joan-e Holt (Public Relations) the race sponsors and all the Country Co-ordinator’s that were present were called up to the stage and given a small gift for all their hard work and efforts over the past year. The Official Race Sponsors were then called to the stage and they were as follows:- Peter Furstenberg from Shine Interactive, Keith McLintock & Brett Lindsay from Big Brave Digital, Deirdre Kallmeyer from African Olive Travels Concepts, Dr. Henk De Weerd from Belgica De Weerd Clinic, Sudhoff Veterinary, Brother Copiers, Medpet, Turf Pet Hyper, Benzing Electronic Clocking System, Frank Nebig from Animals To Fly (Shipping), The Racing Pigeon & International Pictorial and Pigeons On Line. Also two very special mentions were for Heron Banks Golf & River Estate and of course Emerald Resort, Casino & Hotel. All of these were met with great applaud and the Country Co-ordinator’s that were present then had a team photograph taken. Then Sara Blackshaw announced the winners of the three special competitions held earlier in the day, and the winners of the golf tournament were Hein Beneke and his team from South Africa, unfortunately nobody was present to pick up the trophy from Sara Blackshaw. The winner of the fishing tournament was Mike Ganus from United States of America and he proudly walked to the stage to pick up the trophy, he was applauded by those present and I am sure he will be back to defend his title next year. Then it was the turn to present the winner of the Ten Pin Bowling Competition and once again it was Mike Ganus from United States of America who was the winner and once again he was applauded as he collected his trophy. Another double for this great fancier. He really came to win THE SOUTH AFRICAN MILLION DOLLAR PIGEON RACE but walked away with two nice trophies for his efforts. Just as well Mike does not play golf because he could have won all three competitions. Yet another well supported event and place was buzzing with excitement for what tomorrow might bring for one lucky fancier or syndicate. When the event ended it was a short move to the outside in a marquee with its own bar and waiters for some live music with our resident singer John Dragon from Ireland, who now works in Tenerife most of the time, who kept everybody entertained until the early hours and a great time was had by all who were present. It really was a great way to finish off a wonderful day.
Saturday morning dawned and we went down for breakfast, it was a beautiful day for a pigeon race, albeit the wind was a bit on the fresh side.
THE FINAL RACE took place on Saturday 2nd February 2019 and liberation was at 06.00 from Colesberg 521km (324 miles), fine and cool conditions with a light North East wind and no storms were forecast and it looked like a perfect day for a race of this quality. The race entry consisted of 2,531 pigeons from 40 different countries and was made up as follows:- Australia 4, Austria 17, Bahrain 2, Belgium 111, Bosnia & Herzegovina 1, Bulgaria 11, Canada 43, China 16, Croatia 2, Czech Republic 52, Denmark 29, Egypt 6, France 15, Germany 579, Greece 4, Iraq 3, Ireland 58, Italy 16, Kuwait 220, Moldova 1, Morocco 2, Namibia 3, Netherlands 101, Norway 10, Poland 65, Portugal 4, Puerto Rico 2, Qatar 17, Romania 50, Saudi Arabia 41, Slovakia 25, Slovenia 1, South Africa 580, Spain 7, Sweden 3, Switzerland 11, Trinidad 2, United Arab Emirates 26, United Kingdom 138 and United States of America 253. This total was made up of 1,951 International pigeons and 580 pigeons from South Africa.
There were just 12 pigeons in the Hold Back List that were not basketed because they had been deemed unfit to compete by the Veterinary Officer Dr. Piet van Zyl, these were made up as follows:- 1 from Germany, 1 from Iraq, 1 from Italy, 3 from Kuwait, 5 from South Africa and 1 from United Kingdom. If any of these were paid up entries the owners will get a refund as per the rules of the race.
After a nice breakfast we made our way over to the E&E Centre and it was starting to fill up with many fanciers from all over the world, plus of course lots of South African fanciers and friends that were turning up to enjoy the race day activities. It was good to see the trade stands that had supported this event doing good business and my friend for many years Allan Jordaan was interviewing fanciers and other people on the stage. Food and drinks were available and the big screen on the stage was showing the Hot Spot Car Races that had taken place during the 2018/19 race series. Then the Final Race liberation was shown on the two big screens in the hall, it really was a great liberation and the pigeons cleared the race point in minutes. Lunch had been laid on in the E&E Centre for all that had tickets and that started at 12 noon and the tables were soon full of pigeon fanciers and friends from all over the world having a good time and talking about what might be about to happen, all hoping that the first pigeon over the winning line would be theirs or if not one from a fellow countryman or somebody they knew.
The E&E Centre was filling up and it was estimated that there were around 1,500 fanciers and friends in the hall and numbers were still increasing. Lots of fanciers had travelled from all over South Africa to view and be part of the race as it actually happened and to be part of a wonderful experience. I finally left the E&E Centre for the race loft with Michael Holt and Pieter Saayman at about 12.30 and we arrived at the loft about 10 minutes later, everything was already set up and ready to go, all the final checks were done and found to be working perfectly and it was now time to start looking into the sky. I predicated the winning pigeon would take about eight to eight and a half hours to cover the 324 mile journey, just around 40 miles per hour, so my estimated arrival time would be between 14.00/14.30. However, as usual I was out spotting well before this estimated arrival time. Then all of a sudden at 14.17 a small gang of 4 pigeons came bang on line hit the trapping area and were all clocked within 9 seconds of each other, everybody present now held their breath hoping it was their pigeon that went through the trap first, then the massive screens showed the winning pigeon to take 1st OPEN was TEAM BRANDY with pigeon named PREMIER MY PRICE clocked at 14.17.36.90 and bred by MANFRED SCHMIDT & MARTINA BAU from GERMANY. Then 2nd OPEN went to RUNE RASMUSSEN from DENMARK, 3rd OPEN went to HOLTS LOFT from UNITED STATES of AMERICA, 4th OPEN went to PIPA ELITE CENTER from BELGIUM. Just 3 minutes later a further 4 pigeons arrived bang on line at 14.20, these were all clocked within 29 seconds, followed by another small gang at 14.22 and another small gang at 14.25. See the results below for the top 50 pigeons or go onto http://www.samdpr.com to view the full race result. The pigeons continued to roll in all afternoon with all 300 cash prize being taken by 18.36.
LIVESTREAM (YOUTUBE’S NEW LIVE BROADCASTING PLATFORM) was available to watch online on the SAMDPR Website and pigeon fanciers from literally all over the world were logging on to watch the race unfold. Keith McLintock & Brett Lindsay and Big Brave Digital and staff are the company involved with this side of the race. The figures run into thousands watching at the same time. Keith Lindsay was at the race loft doing interviews were going out live, plus Facebook and Twitter. These were seen by thousands of fanciers, friends and people all over the world. The work and effort these guys put into doing this job professionally is remarkable, everything has to be done correctly for it to be seen by all who log on to watch what they cover. They also filmed at all the 5 Hot Spot Car Races and the liberation and of course The Final Race. This gives all the pigeon fanciers or interested parties all over the world the chance to view these events LIVE and as they actually happen. THESE GUYS DO A SUPERB JOB AND ARE WORTH THEIR WEIGHT IN GOLD. Special words of praise must also go to Keith McLintock & Brett Lindsay and staff from Big Brave Digital and also to Peter Furstenberg and his staff from Shine Interactive, they do a wonderful job with all the media and technical worldwide coverage, that is watched literally all over the world. They do a magnificent job. KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK GUYS.
CONGRATULATIONS ON WINNING THE COVETED 1st OPEN PRIZE went to TEAM BRANDY from GERMANY with their superb pigeon named PREMIER MY PRICE ring number DV-01233-18-2080 bred by MANFRED SCHMIDT & MARTINA BAU which was officially clocked at 14.17.36.90 to record a velocity of 1149ypm, 1047 m/m, 17.45 m/s (39mph) winning a GOLD MEDAL, SUPERB TROPHY, WINNER’S JACKET and THE WINNER’S CHEQUE for US$200,000 (£160,000). Also winning Open and German Nominations, plus the Zandy Meyer Memorial Mercedes SLK Car Nomination and walked away with a staggering total of US$293,429 (£234,743).
This pigeon then sold for an amazing ZAR350,000 SOUTH AFRICAN RAND (US$26,042) to Mike Ganus from United States of America. Then 2nd Open Rune Rasmussen from Denmark with pigeon named Okutanrune bred by Rune Rasmussen & Mustafa Okutan, which was officially clocked at 14.17.38.08, winning a GOLD MEDAL, Trophy and US$125,000 (£100,000), 3rd Open Holts Loft from United States of America with pigeon named Little Spirit bred by Tim Holt which was officially clocked at 14.17.38.98, winning a GOLD MEDAL, Trophy and US$75,000 (£60,000), 4th Open PIPA Elite Center from Belgium with pigeon named PEC 467 bred by PIPA Elite Center, winning GOLD MEDAL, Trophy and US$50,000 (£40,000), this pigeon was officially clocked at 14.17.45.82, 5th Open Ken Easley from United States of America with pigeon named BB 8 bred by Ken Easley winning a GOLD MEDAL, Trophy and US$35,000 (£28,000), this pigeon was officially clocked at 14.20.01.78, this pigeon also won the KNOCKOUT COMPETITION and US$25,000 (£20,000), 6th Open Team Valya + Rosen Dobrevi from Bulgaria with pigeon named Miss Kriss bred by Team Valya + Rosen Dobrevi winning a GOLD MEDAL, Trophy and US$20,000 (£16,000), this pigeon was officially clocked at 14.20.08.61, 7th Open Club Pretoria Oos Wedvlugduiwe Klub from South Africa with pigeon named Jadzia bred by Triple J Lofts winning a GOLD MEDAL, Trophy and US$17,500 (£14,000), this pigeon was officially clocked at 14.20.11.10, 8th Open Ganus Family Loft from United States of America with pigeon named JAZZ MAN bred by Mike Ganus winning a GOLD MEDAL, Trophy and US$15,000 (£12,000), this pigeon was officially clocked at 14.20.32.17, 9th Open SG Eschenberg u Sohn from Germany with pigeon named Gusion bred by Eschenberg u Sohn winning a GOLD MEDAL, Trophy and US$12,500 (£10,000), this pigeon was officially clocked at 14.22.22.07, 10th Open Rivera Loft from United States of America with pigeon named AMA1 bred by Jose Rivera winning a GOLD MEDAL, Trophy and US$10,000 (£8,000), this pigeon was officially clocked at 14.22.48.15, 11th Open Club Ignacio Dorronsoro from United States of America with pigeon named Lucia 2 bred by Ignacio Dorronsoro winning US$7,000 (£5,600), 12th Open Ervin Laro from Italy with pigeon named World Champion Rankin bred by Ervin Laro winning US$7,000 (£5,600), 13th Open Juergen Stefaniszyn from Germany with pigeon named Sylt Lilla 6 bred by Juergen Stefaniszyn winning US$7,000 (£5,600), 14th Open Ervin Laro from Italy with pigeon named Ivano bred by Ervin Laro winning US$7,000 (£5,600), this pigeon and the one that took 12th Open won the 2-Bird Average & US$2,000, 15th Open Ringostar Syndicate from Kuwait with pigeon named Naser 8 bred by Abdullah Buhemeed winning US$7,000 (£5,600), 16th Open Robert Darr – Donald Bicknell from United States of America with pigeon named DB12 bred by Robert Darr – Donald Bicknell winning US$5,000 (£4,000), 17th Open Robert Darr – Donald Bicknell from United States of America with pigeon named DB41 bred by Robert Darr – Donald Bicknell winning US$5,000 (£4,000), 18th Open Alp Race Team from Switzerland with pigeon named Bluebell bred by Simon Wolf winning US$5,000 (£4,000), 19th Open Team Sasse - Wezel from Germany with pigeon named NL CdD – Hurri 3 bred by SG Sasse winning US$5,000 (£4,000), 20th Open Johann Seitz from Germany with pigeon named M 938 bred by Johann Seitz winning US$5,000 (£4,000), 21st Open Team Sigi from Germany with pigeon named Schneewitteken bred by Sigrun Kehrer winning US$3,500 (£2,800), 22nd Open Kevin Lee from United States of America with pigeon named Targoviste745x35521 bred by Kevin Li winning US$3,500 (£2,800), 23rd Open Team Ettrick from United Kingdom with pigeon named Ettrick Angle bred by Bobby Dalziel winning US$3,500 (£2,800), 24th Open E Tufte – O Hegland from Denmark with pigeon named Ole 1 bred by Ole Hegland winning US$3,500 (£2,800) and 25th Open Team Pahnke - Gockel from Germany with pigeon named Golden Blackjack bred by Erhard Pahnke winning US$3,500 (£2,800). There are another 275 Cash Prizes that were won. For the full race result please log on to the official SAMDPR Website http://www.samdpr.com where you can see what time all the pigeons were officially clocked and what they all actually won. CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL THE WINNERS ON THE DAY.
There were 300 cash prizes so that means another 275 cash prizes were up for grabs. I would love to list all 300 winners but unfortunately, limited space does not allow this to happen. A total of 339 pigeons were officially clocked on the day up to 19.28 and 4 of these were NON-ACTIVATED PIGEONS or DEFAULTER PIGEONS. One pigeon was clocked during the darkness at 01.30. There were 9 different countries represented in the top 20 and 8 minutes 04.45 seconds between these pigeons. The top 50 pigeons had 14 different countries represented in this result and there was 43 minutes 01.41 seconds between the top 50 and then a total of 22 different countries were represented in the top 100 in the Open in this race and there was 1 hour 40 minutes 58.51 seconds between the top 100 in this race. A total of 1,205 pigeons had been officially clocked by Sunday evening, then 1,299 by Monday evening. More pigeons were clocked over the next few days bring the total to 1,374 pigeons. A later Loft List on the SAMDPR Web Site shows 1,414 pigeons have made it back to the loft in Heron Banks Golf & River Estate. More pigeons will work back, so if yours is still missing, keep your eye on the Loft Lists as these will be updated as pigeons return back to the race loft. Full results can be seen on http://www.samdpr.com
CONGRATULATIONS ON WINNING 1st UNITED KINGDOM, 23rd OPEN went to TEAM ETTRICK with pigeon named ETTRICK ANGLE bred by BOBBY DALZIEL from SELKIRK, which was officially clocked at 14.27.01.36 which won a cool US$3,500 (£2,800) for its efforts. Well done Bobby, your first attempt at the SAMDPR, your pigeons did exceptionally well right through the race series. Then 2nd UK, 27th Open Scotland’s Own Syndicate with pigeon named Young Reekie bred by W. Kinnear & Son from Edinburgh, which won US$3,500 (£2,800), 3rd UK, 33rd Open Paul Smith Syndicate with pigeon named Stansted Gold Charm bred by Kevin Hibbert from Rotherham, which won US$3,000 (£2,400), 4th UK, 36th Open TadT with pigeon named Big Bopper bred by Tad Truszkowski and Vince Crossley from Melton Mowbray, which won US$3,000 (£2,400), 5th UK, 45th Open Millys Loft with pigeon named Dundee Babe bred by Michael Mellor from Crewe, which won US$2,500 (£2,000), 6th UK, 49th Open another for Paul Smith Syndicate with pigeon named Stansted Gold Bullet bred by Kevin Hibbert from Rotherham, which won US$2,500 (£2,000), 7th UK, 67th Open another for Team Ettrick with pigeon named Ettrick Pride bred by Booby Dalziel from Selkirk, which won US$2,000 (£1,600), 8th UK, 84th Open Zandys Dream Team with pigeon named Zandys Princess bred by Paul Smith from Stansted Mountfitchet, which won US$1,750 (£1,400), 9th UK, 91st Open Rixshaw with pigeon named Diddy Man bred by Len Rix from Mildenhall, which won US$1,750 (£1,400), 10th UK, 92nd Open another for Millys Loft with pigeon named Hot Dundee, which won US$1,750 (£1,400), 11th UK, 105th Open Brian Clayburn with pigeon named Duration bred by Brian Clayburn from Ackworth, which won US$1,500 (£1,200), 12th UK, 107th Open another for Brian Clayburn with pigeon named Another Touch bred by Brian Clayburn from Ackworth, which won US$1,500 (£1,200), 13th UK, 136th Open
Bet-Right Lofts with pigeon named Solo bred by Jeremy Wright from Lutterworth, which won US$1,250 (£1,000), 14th UK, 138th Open John Cooper with pigeon named Welsh Boy with pigeon bred by John Cooper from Pontypridd, which won US$1,250 (£1,000), 15th UK, 147th Open Obelisk Syndicate with pigeon named Blue Obelisk with pigeon bred by the late Derek Nicholls from Premier Stud and entered by Clive Barrett from Taunton, which won US$1,250 (£1,000), 16th UK, 186th Open another for Zandys Dream Team with pigeon named Zandys Dynasty bred Paul Smith from Stansted Mountfitchet, which won US$1,100 (£880), 17th UK, 194th Open another for Bet-Right Lofts with pigeon named Blue Train bred by M. Betts and entered by Jeremy Wright from Lutterworth, which won US$1,100 (£880),18th UK, 200th Open Team Lincs with pigeon named Waddington bred by Paul & Tracey Stacey from Sleaford, which won US$1,100 (£880), 19th UK, 210th Open another for Team Lincs with pigeon named Cadney bred by Paul & Tracey Stacey from Sleaford, which won US$1,000 (£800), 20th UK, 239th Open another for Millys Loft with pigeon named Not You Again Dundee bred by Michael Mellor from Crewe, which won US$1,000 (£800), 21st UK, 248th Open another for Millys Loft with pigeon named Pull The Pin Dundee bred by Michael Mellor from Crewe, which won US$1,000 (£800), 22nd UK, 252nd Open Team Islwyn with pigeon named Ben bred by Robert Jones from Port Talbot which won US$500 (£400), 23rd UK, 282nd Open another for Zandys Dream Team with pigeon named Zandys Prince bred by Paul Smith from Stansted Mountfitchet, which won US$500 (£400)
and 24th UK, 299th Open Pet Shop Boys & Girls with pigeon named Astons Girl bred by John Alderslade from Bridlington, which won US$500 (£400). A total of 83 United Kingdom pigeons were officially recorded, which was a fantastic result for the UK Team. WELL DONE TO ALL, A FANTASTIC TEAM PERFORMANCE.