The Final Race - Saturday 1st Feb 2020

[willie reynolds]

“INTERNATIONAL PRESS RELEASE”.
ON
THE FINAL RACE
IN
THE 24th 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 1st FEBRUARY 2020.

A TOUGH RACE FINISHES IN THE SOUTH AFRICAN SUNSHINE.

THE UNITED KINGDOM TEAM had a really fantastic race and won the following OPEN positions:- 5th, 9th, 22nd, 23rd, 43rd, 45th, 63rd, 145th, 157th, 160th, 229th, 239th, 270th, 274th, 278th & 298th OPEN and won US$84,100 (approx. £67,280) in PRIZE MONEY, plus two fanciers purchased an Un-Activated Pigeon and it won 217th & won them US$750 (approx. £600) in PRIZE MONEY. UNITED KINGDOM fanciers also won US$35,350 (approx. £28,280) in the GLOBAL & UNITED KINGDOM NOMINATIONS. A fancier won 22nd OPEN and THE KNOCKOUT COMPETITION & US$25,000 (approx. £20,000). The 5th OPEN winner won the 1st PRIZE in the UNITED KINGDOM COUNTRY CHALLENGE COMPETITION and US$4,800 (approx. £3,840). TOTAL WINNINGS were a staggering US$150,000 (approx. £120,000), (based on US$1.25 to the Pound Sterling).
THE IRISH TEAM also had an outstanding race and won the following OPEN positions:- 17th, 46th, 55th, 58th, 135th, 147th, 235th, 262nd & 266th OPEN and won US$15,450 (approx. £12,360) in PRIZE MONEY. The fanciers that won 17th OPEN won THE ZANDY MEYER MERCEDES SLK CAR NOMINATION and US$42,500 (approx. £34,000). The 46th OPEN winner won 1st PRIZE in the IRELAND COUNTRY CHALLENGE COMPETITION and US$760 (approx. £608). TOTAL WINNINGS were US$58,700 (£46,968), (based on US$1.25 to the Pound Sterling).

THIS JUST SHOWS ONCE AGAIN THAT THE UNITED KINGDOM AND IRISH PIGEONS CAN MORE THAN HOLD THEIR OWN AGAINST SOME OF THE BEST FANCIERS AND PIGEONS IN THE WORLD TODAY.

THE TOP 49 PIGEONS SOLD AT AUCTION FOR A STAGGERING ZAR4.772,800 MILLION SOUTH AFRICAN RANDS, WHICH EQUATES TO US$318,611 AMERICAN DOLLARS or E292,272 EUROS or £244,383 POUNDS STERLING. AN AVERAGE SELLING PRICE OF ZAR97,404 or US$6,502 or E5,965 or £4,987 EACH. THIS JUST GOES TO SHOW THE VALUE THAT PIGEON FANCIERS ALL AROUND THE WORLD PUT ON PIGEONS THAT WIN IN THE COVETED SAMDPR.

Over the past few years quite a few local and international television companies and film companies have come over to film the event and this year was no exception. Venom Film Documentary are based in Dublin, Ireland and once again we were privileged this year to have Gavin Fitzgerald (Director), Samantha Corr (Producer), Narayan van Meale (DOP), Wesley Aycliff (Sound) and Maxwell (Camera Assistant) who had travelled over to do some filming with the hope of producing and developing a documentary project on the SAMDPR and racing pigeons in general. Gavin had travelled out before and filmed everything that goes on over the 4 days. This year was not exception, they did interviews and covered many aspects of this great International Race with lots a ASI Staff and pigeon fanciers from many different countries. Last time Gavin came out I introduced him and the film crew to many top fanciers, especially most of the past SCMDPR and SAMDPR winners that were present for that race. They seemed to be revelling and enjoying every minute of it, even bringing some Irish Luck for Karl Donnelly (Donnelly & Kirkwood) from Ireland that won 5th Open and the Zandy Meyer Mercedes SLK Car Nomination winner. Well people talk about the Irish Luck, well it worked again this year with Sean Hunt & Family from Ireland winning 17th Open and the Zandy Meyer Mercedes SLK Car Nomination winner. We are all looking forward to seeing the finished documentary after all their sterling works and efforts. Their Website address is:- www.gavfitzgerald.com GOOD LUCK WITH YOUR PROJECT.

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. 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 in South Africa with Tad Truszkowski at Emerald Resort Hotel about 9am on Tuesday 25th January 2020 and we did not return to the UK until Tuesday 11th February 2020.
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 but Sara was busy with meetings so we played 18 holes on our own. 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 Gerry McCourt and Kathleen who had just arrived and we joined them for a few drinks before going back to get showered and changed for the evening. A special event had been organised for about 7pm on the Wednesday evening by the Race Organisers and this was a superb meal in the lovely “HIGH STAKES RESTAURANT” in the casino. This was attended by ASI Staff, fanciers, friends and Country Co-ordinator’s who had already arrived and it turned out to be a great way to start an event. A fabulous evening was enjoyed by all that were present. Back to the bar in the hotel to have a few drinks and meet a few other fanciers which had arrived throughout the day and early evening.

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 24th SAMDPR, the loft staff now have this off to a fine art. Soon the basketing of the pigeons at the Race Loft was completed and the loading of the baskets onto the pigeon transporter was completed and they were then all taken on a short journey over 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 safely 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. 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 three 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 us 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 16.00 the Auditors finally announced that we had basketed a total of 1,548 pigeons from 36 different countries for the 24th 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 to the outstanding “BREEZE RESTAURANT” where we had a great meal and a fabulous evening. Then 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 after a hearty breakfast we departed for the Heron Banks Golf & River Estate as I had entered the fourth SAMDPR 18-Hole Golf Tournament, along with Tad Truszkowski and Sara Blackshaw. 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. All competitors would drive and then the best of these drive would be used. 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 Estate Golf Club and all his staff for making us all so welcome. The winning team was Paul Smith, Tad Truszkowski and Sara Blackshaw, this was the third time Paul and Sara had won third competition. Hein Beneke, Morni Snyman, Dirk Grobler and Andre Vermaak all from South Africa who won the competition last year finished second. Great fun, enjoyed by all who participated.

I did not enter the fourth fishing competition on the Vaal River as I was playing in the Golf Tournament 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 once again 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. The winner was Jorg Bienge from Germany with a really good fish.

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 19.00 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. Before we started our food we were greeted by Mark Hands, the Managing Director of Emerald Resort & Casino and he thanked everybody for attending and wished everybody a great race and hoped to see them all for The 25th SAMDPR Anniversary Event next year. 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 Hanover 600km (373 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 two special competitions held earlier in the day, and the winners of the Golf Tournament and Trophies were Paul Smith, Tad Truszkowski and Sara Blackshaw. The winner of the Fishing Tournament was Jorg Bienge from Germany and he walked to the stage to pick up the trophy. Both parties were applauded by those present and I am sure they will all be back to defend their titles next year. Yet another well supported event and place was buzzing with excitement for what tomorrow might bring for one lucky fancier or syndicate.

Saturday morning dawned and we went down for an early breakfast and it was a beautiful day for a pigeon race. The restaurant was packed with fanciers from many different countries and the excitement was already starting to show.

THE FINAL RACE took place on Saturday 1st February 2020 and liberation was at 06.05 from Hanover 600km (373 miles), fine and clear conditions, temperature of 19c (66f) with a light North wind (head wind) and no storms were forecast and it looked like a perfect day for a race of this quality. As the day progressed to temperature would rise to 32c (92f). The race entry consisted of 1,548 pigeons from 34 different countries and was made up as follows:- Australia 4, Austria 11, Bahrain 3, Belgium 46, Bulgaria 17, Canada 20, China 1, Czech Republic 19, Denmark 8, Egypt 4, France 4, Germany 403, Iraq 2, Ireland 32, Italy 12, Kuwait 136, Moldova 2, Netherlands 59, Norway 2, Poland 46, Portugal 1, Puerto Rico 1, Qatar 26, Romania 23, Saudi Arabia 17, Slovakia 10, Slovenia 3, South Africa 284, Spain 6, Switzerland 5, Trinidad 4, United Arab Emirates 8, United Kingdom 100 and United States of America 228. This total was made up of 1,264 International pigeons and 284 pigeons from South Africa, the host country. 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 Canada, 1 from Germany, 3 from Kuwait, 1 from Slovenia 2 from South Africa, 1 from Spain and 3 from United States of America. 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 from South Africa was interviewing fanciers and other people on the stage. Food and drinks were available and the big screen on the stage was showing all the 5 x Hot Spot Car Races that had taken place during the 2019/20 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 12.15 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 over 10 hours to cover the 600km (373 mile) journey back to the Race Loft, just over 37 miles per hour, so my estimated arrival time would be about 16.05. However, as we followed the weather forecasts in the Control Tower we noticed a rain belt coming in that was not forecast and it looked like the pigeons may run into it as they were making their way back to the Race Loft. As usual I was out spotting well before this estimated arrival time. A thunderstorm went round the lofts but no rain fell, however we were aware it may move towards the pigeons as they made their way home. As usual a few false alarms and then all of a sudden at 18.32 much later than anticipated a single pigeon was seen approaching and it hit the trapping area and was clocked at 18.32.43.50, 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 BARBARA & MIHA SOVIC with their pigeon named MARJANA S clocked at 18.32.43.50 and bred by TEAM BARBARA & MIHA SOVIC from SLOVENIA. Then 2nd OPEN went to BEKO LOFT from UNITED STATES OF AMERICA clocked at 18.48.49.69 and then 3rd OPEN went to KOOPMAN RACING TEAM from NETHERLANDS clocked at 19.27.06.59. These were the only 3 gallant pigeons that were recorded on the day.

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 that were going out live, plus Facebook and Twitter. These were seen by thousands of fanciers, friends and people all over the world. My grandson even took a photograph of me on the Lookout Tower and sent a copy of it to me by WhatsApp. 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 BARBARA & MIHA SOVIC from SLOVENIA with their superb pigeon named MARJANA S ring number SLOVENIJA-2019-1075368 bred by TEAM BARBARA & MIHA SOVIC which was officially clocked at 18.32.43.50 to record a winning velocity of 878ypm, 802.44 m/m, 13.374 m/s (30mph) winning a GOLD MEDAL, SUPERB TROPHY and THE WINNER’S CHEQUE for US$300,000 (£240,000). Also winning US$3,196 (approx. £2,557) Global Nominations. This pigeon then sold for an amazing ZAR1,750,000 MILLION SOUTH AFRICAN RAND or US$118,243 or E107,165 or £89,606 to the world renowed Mike Ganus from United States of America, a past winner of the SAMDPR and who over the years has built up reputation for purchasing the best pigeons in the world (see photograph left). Then 2nd Open Beko Loft from United States of America with pigeon named Suza u Pismu bred by Bozo Mladjenovic, which was officially clocked at 18.48.49.69, winning a GOLD MEDAL, Trophy and US$150,000 (approx. £120,000), 3rd Open Koopman Racing Team from Netherlands with pigeon named Viento bred by Koopman Racing Team which was officially clocked at 19.27.06.59, winning a GOLD MEDAL, Trophy and US$100,000 (approx. £80,000), 4th Open Tim Rutkowski from Germany with pigeon named Theseus bred by Tim Rutkowski, winning GOLD MEDAL, Trophy and US$75,000 (approx. £60,000), this pigeon was officially clocked at 05.58.09.52, 5th Open Team Lincs from United Kingdom with pigeon named Belton bred by Paul Stacey winning a GOLD MEDAL, Trophy and US$50,000 (approx. £40,000), this pigeon was officially clocked at 06.49.52.91, 6th Open Thomas Sauer from Germany with pigeon named Neumond bred by Thomas Sauer winning a GOLD MEDAL, Trophy and US$25,000 (approx. £20,000), this pigeon was officially clocked at 07.16.26.17, 7th Open Happy Days Syndicate from Qatar with pigeon named San Fransisco bred by Ali Hassan Al Kaahi winning a GOLD MEDAL, Trophy and US$20,000 (approx. £16,000), this pigeon was officially clocked at 07.30.05.50, 8th Open Hardy Krueger from Germany with pigeon named Harrys Game bred by Hardy Krueger winning a GOLD MEDAL, Trophy and US$15,000 (approx. £12,000), this pigeon was officially clocked at 07.37.18.94, 9th Open Brian Clayburn from United Kingdom with pigeon named Infinate Grace bred by Brian Clayburn winning a GOLD MEDAL, Trophy and US$12,500 (approx. £10,000), this pigeon was officially clocked at 07.41.23.75 and Brian was a past winner of the SCMPR in 2009, 10th Open Brieftaubenfreunde OWL from Germany with pigeon named Dortmunder bred by PS Winkelhahn winning a GOLD MEDAL, Trophy and US$10,000 (approx. £8,000), this pigeon was officially clocked at 07.43.57.61, 11th Open Winkie Pigeons from Spain with pigeon named The Seut bred by Winkie Pigeons winning US$7,500 (approx. £6,000), 12th Open Team Germany – Bibi Stefanescu from Romania with pigeon named Golden Race 60 bred by Bibi Stefanescu winning US$7,500 (approx. £6,000), 13th Open Hussen Al-Jewssry from Kuwait with pigeon named Al-Jewssry 1 bred by Hussen Al-Jewssry winning US$7,500 (approx. £6,000), 14th Open Petar + Kiril Raponski from Bulgaria with pigeon named Sohn 1201 bred by Petar + Kiril Raponski winning US$7,500 (approx. £6,000), 15th Open Pigeon World USA from United States of America with pigeon named Hui Ohana bred by John Timmerman winning US$7,500 (approx. £6,000), 16th Open GM Nell from South Africa with pigeon named Handicap bred by GM Nell winning US$5,000 (approx. £4,000), 17th Open Sean Hunt & Family from Ireland with pigeon named Cornshore 4 bred by Sean Hunt & Family winning US$5,000 (approx. £4,000), this pigeon also won the Zandy Meyer Mercedes SLK Car Nomination and a cool US$42,500 (approx. £34,000),18th Open Team Hansen - Brenneke from Germany with pigeon named Kerssenbrock Libelle bred by Andreas Moeller winning US$5,000 (approx. £4,000), 19th Open Meyerholz - Placzek from Germany with pigeon named Fire & Ice bred by Manfred Meyerholz winning US$5,000 (approx. £4,000), 20th Open Wian en Mart from South Africa with pigeon named James bred by Wian Joubert winning US$5,000 (approx. £4,000), 21st Open Dagmar und Edwin Voll from Germany with pigeon named Dagmar bred by Dagmar und Edwin Voll winning US$4,000 (approx. £3,200), 22nd Open Berkshire Boys from United Kingdom with pigeon named Miss Maurice bred by Maurice O’Donnell from Ireland winning US$4,000 (approx. £3,200), this pigeon also won The Knockout Competition and US$25,000 (approx. £20,000), 23rd Open Team Ede from United Kingdom with pigeon named Teletext Beauty bred by Darren Ede winning US$4,000 (approx. £3,200), 24th Open Triple J Lofts from South Africa with pigeon named Janet Robin bred by Jurie Erwee & Son (Triple J Lofts) winning US$4,000 (approx. £3,200) and 25th Open Mariusz Chlopecki from Poland with pigeon named Reydon Star bred by Mariusz Chlopecki winning US$3,500 (approx. £3,200). All these 25 pigeons were clocked before 08.17 on the Sunday morning and all the 300 Cash Prizes were gone by 12.34. It was a great International results with 12 different countries represented in the top 20 and a total of 16 different countries in the top 50. CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL THE WINNERS.


1st: Marjana S 2nd: Suza u Pismu 3rd: Viento 4th: Theseus 5th: Belton

There are another 275 Cash Prizes that were won. I would love to list all 300 winners but unfortunately, limited space does not allow this to happen. For the full race result please log on to the official SAMDPR Website www.samdpr.com where you can see what time all the pigeons were officially clocked and how much they all actually won.

A total of 447 pigeons were officially clocked by 19.19 on Sunday night and a total of 590 pigeons clocked by 18.49 on Monday night. More pigeons worked back over the next few days taking the total up to 680. 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 www.samdpr.com

CONGRATULATIONS ON WINNING 1st UNITED KINGDOM, 5th OPEN went to TEAM LINCS with pigeon named BELTON bred by PAUL STACEY from RAYLEIGH, which was officially clocked at 06.49.52.91 which won a cool US$50,000 (approx. £40,000) for its efforts, this pigeon also won US$3,400 (approx. £2,720) in Global Nominations and US$252.45c (approx. £202) United Kingdom Nominations, plus it also won 1st United Kingdom Country Challenge and US$4,800 (approx. £3,840). Total winnings of US$58,452.45c (approx. £46,762). Then 2nd UK, 9th Open Brian Clayburn with pigeon named Infinate Grace bred by Brian Clayburn from Ackworth, which won US$12,500 (approx. £10,000), Brian was a past 1st Open SCMDPR winner in 2009 with his pigeon East of Eden, 3rd UK, 22nd Open Berkshire Boys with pigeon named Miss Maurice bred by Maurice O’Donnell from Dungarvan, which won US$4,000 (£3,200), this pigeon also won The Knockout Competition and a cool US$25,000 (approx. £20,000) Cash Prize, plus US$15,096 (approx. £12,077) in Global Nominations. Total winnings of US$44,096 (approx. £35,277).
4th UK, 23rd Open Team Ede with pigeon named Teletext Beauty bred by Darren Ede from Southampton, which won US$4,000 (approx. £3,200), this pigeon also won US$1,496 (approx. £1,496) Global Nominations. Total winnings of US$5,496 (approx. £4,397), 5th UK, 43rd Open Millys Loft with pigeon named Hot English Baby bred by Michael Mellor from Crewe, which won US$2,500 (£2,000), 6th UK, 45th Open another for Team Ede with pigeon named Lone Survivor bred by Darren Ede from Southampton, which won US$2,500 (approx. £2,000), this pigeon also won US$15,096 (approx. £12,077) Global Nominations, plus it also won 1st United Kingdom, 5th Open in Hot Spot Race Averages. Total winnings of US$17,596 (approx. £14,077), 7th UK, 63rd Open Scotland’s Own Syndicate with pigeon entered by Barry Kinnear from Edinburgh with pigeon named Scottish Legend bred by W & B Dunsmore from Edinburgh, which won US$2,000 (approx. £1,600), 8th UK, 145th Open Paul Smith Syndicate with pigeon entered by Paul Smith from Stansted Mountfitchet with pigeon named Paul’s Hero bred by Kevin Hibbert from Rotherham, which won US$1,100 (approx. £880), this pigeon won US$8.50c (approx. £6.80p) in United Kingdom Nominations, plus it also won 1st United Kingdom, 7th Open in The Grand Overall Averages after all 30 races during the 2019/2020 race series, 9th UK, 157th Open Gerry Francis with pigeon named Thornlea Julie bred by Gerry Francis from Bagshot, which won US$1,000 (approx. £800), this was Gerry’s first attempt at the SAMDPR, Gerry as many of you will know was a Past England Football Manager & Captain, also had a superb playing career winning numerous England Caps and was manager of quite a few leading football clubs, 10th UK, 160th Open Team Ettick with pigeon named Ettrick Loch bred by Bobby Dalziel from Ettrick, which won US$1,000 (approx. £800), 11th UK, 229th Open another for Millys Loft with pigeon named Mick Dundee Dundee bred by Michael Mellor from Crewe, which won US$750 (approx. £600), 12th UK, 239th Open Foster Sons & Daughter with pigeon named Hawkley Blue bred by Foster Sons & Daughter from Liss, which won US$750 (approx. £600), 13th UK, 270th Open Bet-Right Lofts with pigeon named Marshall Dillon bred by Jeremy Wright from Lutterworth, which won US$500 (approx. £400), 14th UK, 274th Open another for Team Lincs with pigeon named Goltho bred by Paul Stacey from Rayleigh, which won US$500 (approx. £400), 15th UK, 278th Open another for Foster Sons & Daughter with pigeon named Cleopatra bred by Foster Sons & Daughter from Liss, which won US$500 (approx. £400), 16th UK, 298th Open another for another for Team Lincs with pigeon named Firsby bred by Paul Stacey from Rayleigh, which won US$500 (approx. £400), 17th UK, 318th Open another for another for Team Lincs with pigeon named Elsham bred by Paul Stacey from Rayleigh, 18th UK, 319th Open another for Paul Smith Syndicate with pigeon entered by Paul Smith from Stansted Mountfitchet with pigeon named Paul’s Blaze bred by Glynn Stone from Belper, 19th UK, 328th Open Syndicate Lofts UK with pigeon named Shining Star bred by Peter Fox from Bangor, 20th UK, 340th Open another for Foster Sons & Daughter with pigeon named One For The Gurkhas bred by Foster Sons & Daughter from Liss. A total of 42 United Kingdom pigeons were officially recorded, which was a fantastic result for the UK Team. WELL DONE TO ALL, A FANTASTIC TEAM PERFORMANCE.


















9th: Infinate Grace 22nd: Miss Maurice 23rd: Teletext Beauty 43rd: Hot English Baby 45th: Lone Survivor

This is a photograph of the TROPHY and GOLD MEDAL
that Paul Stacey won when he took 5th OPEN with his
pigeon named BELTON and that Brian Clayburn won with his pigeon named INFINATE GRACE that won 9th OPEN in The South African Million Dollar Final Race from Hanover, 600km (373 miles) with 1,548 pigeons competing on Saturday 1st February 2020.

THE UNITED KINGDOM COUNTRY CHALLENGE for the first nominated pigeon clocked in the Final Race went to PAUL STACEY with pigeon named BELTON bred by PAUL STACEY from RAYLEIGH, which won US$4,800 (approx. £3,840) for its efforts. CONGRATULATIONS ON THIS GREAT WIN. For the full result see the SAMDPR Website www.samdpr.com

CONGRATULATIONS ON WINNING 1st IRELAND, 17th OPEN went to SEAN HUNT & FAMILY with pigeon named CORNSHORE 4 bred by SEAN HUNT & FAMILY, which was officially clocked at 08.02.53.08, winning US$5,000 (approx. £4,000) for its efforts, this pigeon also won The Zandy Meyer Memorial Mercedes SLK Car Nomination and the US$42,500 (approx. £34,000) Cash Prize (see photograph below). Total winnings of US$47,500 (approx. £38,000). Then 2nd Ireland, 46th Open Jackpot Lofts with pigeon named Fighting Irish, bred by Karl Donnelly, which won US$2,500 (approx. £2,000) (see photograph below), this pigeon also won 1st Irish Country Challenge and US$760 (approx. £608), 3rd Ireland, 55th Open Andy Quirke with pigeon named The Iron Lady, bred by Andy Quirke, which won US$2,000 (approx. £1,600), 4th Ireland, 58th Open Peter Lucas with pigeon named Jerry’s Choice, bred by Peter Lucas, which won US$2,000 (approx. £1,600), 5th Ireland, 135th Open Joe Kennedy & Son with pigeon named Double Trouble, bred by Joe Kennedy & Son, which won US$1,100 (approx. £880), 6th Ireland, 147th Open Maurice O’Donnell with pigeon named Liadain 6 bred by Maurice O’Donnell, which won US$1,100 (approx. £880), 7th Ireland, 235th Open Thorpe Zeballos with pigeon named Victoria bred by Herbie Thorpe, which won US$750 (approx. £600), 8th Ireland, 262nd Open another for Thorpe Zeballos with pigeon named Bert bred by Herbie Thorpe, which won US$500 (approx. £400), 9th Ireland, 266th Open another for Jackpot Lofts with pigeon named Flying Scotsman bred by Karl Donnelly, which won US$500 (approx. £400). The Irish Team got 15 pigeons home. WELL DONE TO ALL THESE WINNERS.


17th: Cornshore 4. 46th: Fighting Irish.
THE IRISH COUNTRY CHALLENGE for the first nominated pigeon clocked in the Final Race went to JACKPOT LOFTS with pigeon named FIGHTING IRISH bred by KARL DONNELLY, which won US$760 (approx. £608) for its efforts (see photograph above). CONGRATULATIONS ON A GREAT RESULT. For the full result see the SAMDPR Website www.samdpr.com

GLOBAL NOMINATIONS ON THE FINAL RACE amounted to a staggering US$162,905.65c (£162,905) which included 50 pigeons entered at US$1,000 (approx. £800) per pigeon entry fee with the top prize worth a cool US$42,500 (approx. £34,000) for the Zandy Meyer Memorial Mercedes SLK Car Entry and a grand total of 634 pigeons including 43 pigeons from the United Kingdom and 10 pigeons from Ireland and a total of 3,337 Global Nominations were actually placed.
Once again the UNITED KINGDOM TEAM members did really well with the TEAM LINCS taking 5th OPEN with pigeon named BELTON bred by PAUL STACEY from RAYLEIGH, this pigeon won US$3,400 (approx. £2,720) for its efforts. Then BERKSHIRE BOYS taking 22nd OPEN with pigeon named MISS MAURICE bred by MAURICE O’DONNELL from DUNGARVAN, this pigeon won a cool US$15,096 (approx. £12,077) for its efforts. Then TEAM EDE taking 23rd OPEN with pigeon named TELETEXT BEAUTY bred by DARREN EDE from SOUTHAMPTON, this pigeon won US$1,496 (£1,197) for its efforts. Then TEAM EDE taking 45th OPEN with pigeon named LONE SURVIVOR bred by DARREN EDE from SOUTHAMPTON, this pigeon won a cool US$15,096 (approx. £12,077) for its efforts. THE IRISH TEAM had no winners in this category. WELL DONE TO ALL THESE FANCIERS.

REGIONAL NOMINATIONS FOR THE UNITED KINGDOM TEAM in the FINAL RACE amounted to only US$388.45c (£311) with only 9 pigeons entered with 40 Nominations. The US$50 & US$100 were not won and were returned to the entrant. TEAM LINCS won 5th OPEN with pigeon named BELTON bred by PAUL STACEY from RAYLEIGH and this pigeon won US$252.45c (approx. £202) for its efforts. Then PAUL SMITH SYNDICATE from STANSTED MOUNTITCHET won 145th OPEN with PAUL’S HERO bred by KEVIN HIBBERT from ROTHERHAM and won US$8.50c (approx. £6.80p). CONGRATULATIONS TO THESE TWO WINNERS.

REGIONAL NOMINATIONS FOR THE IRISH TEAM in the FINAL RACE amounted to no pigeons being entered.

THE GRAND OVERALL AVERAGES which offered US$50,000 (approx. £40,000) in 3 x CASH PRIZES after 30 official races in the 2019/2020 race series finished as follows:- 1st SOUTH AFRICA, 1st OPEN and the 1st PRIZE of US$25,000 (approx. £20,000) went to TRIPLE J LOFTS from SOUTH AFRICA with pigeon named JOAN OSBORNE bred by JURIE ERWEE & SON (TRIPLE J LOFTS) with a total combined flying time of 70.13.18.51 to cover the 30 races that counted, winning this category clearly by nearly 26 minutes, this pigeon moved up 11 places from the previous race (see photograph left). Then 1st GERMANY, 2nd OPEN and the 2nd PRIZE of US$15,000 (approx. £12,000) went to TEAM ALLEN VORAUS from GERMANY with pigeon named THE OLD MANOR HOUSE bred by HP ESSER with a total combined flying time of 70.39.24.18 to cover the 30 races that counted, this pigeon moved up 4 places from the previous race. Then 1st CZECH REPUBLIC, 3rd OPEN and US$10,000 (approx. £8,000) went to TALENT QUATRO MATUSKA from CZECH REPUBLIC with pigeon named AFRICA SPIRIT bred by STANISLAV MUTUSKA with a total combined flying time of 70.58.17.46 to cover the 30 races that counted, this pigeon moved up 6 places from the previous race. 1st UNITED KINGDOM, 7th OPEN went to PAUL SMITH SYNDICATE from STANSTED MOUNTFITCHET with pigeon named PAUL’S HERO bred by KEVIN HIBBERT from ROTHERHAM with a total flying time of 71.38.35.80 to cover the 30 races that counted, this pigeon moved down 2 places from the previous race (see photograph right). 1st IRELAND, 129th OPEN went to SEAN HUNT & FAMILY with their pigeon named CORNSHORE 2 bred by SEAN HUNT & FAMILY with a total combined flying time of 85.33.09.65 in the 30 races that counted, this pigeon moved up 272 places from the previous race. WELL DONE TO ALL THE WINNERS IN THIS COMPETITION.

HOT SPOT AVERAGES which offered a US$10,000 (approx. £8,000) CASH PRIZE to the winner after the 5 x HOT SPOT RACES finished as follows:- 1st GERMANY, 1st OPEN went to TEAM PLATTE with pigeon named STERNSCHNUPPE bred by ALEX WOLF with a combined flying time of 18.08.25.66 up 4 places from HSR4 winning this category by a clear 4 minutes. 1st UNITED KINGDOM, 5th OPEN went to TEAM EDE with pigeon named LONE SURVIVOR bred by DARREN EDE from SOUTHAMPTON with a combined flying time of 18.22.07.82 up 18 places from HSR4 (see photograph left). 2nd UNITED KINGDOM, 56th OPEN went to PAUL SMITH SYNDICATE from STANSTED MOUNTFITCHET with pigeon named PAUL’S HERO bred by KEVIN HIBBERT from ROTHERHAM with a combined flying time of 19.14.14.90 up 30 places from HSR4. This pigeon also won 1st UNITED KINGDOM, 7th OPEN in the OVERALL GRAND AVERAGES after 30 official races. 1st IRELAND, 34th OPEN went to JOE KENNEDY & SON with pigeon named ROUTE 66 bred by JOE KENNEDY & SON with a combined flying time of 18.55.25.50 up 27 places from HSR4. CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL THESE WINNERS.

The 2-BIRD AVERAGE IN THE FINAL RACE carried a US$2,000 (approx. £1,600) CASH PRIZE. 1st GERMANY, 1st OPEN was won by TIM RUTKOWSKI (Team 1) from GERMANY with his pigeons named THESEUS (4th) and WONDERWOMAN (91st) both bred by TIM RUTKOWSKI with a total velocity of 13.077 m/s. 1st UNITED KINGDOM, 11th OPEN was TEAM LINCS (Team 1) with pigeons named BELTON (5th) and ELSHAM (318th) both bred by PAUL STACEY from RAYLEIGH with a total velocity of 12.112 m/s. 1st IRELAND, 36th OPEN was SEAN HUNT & FAMILY (Team 1) with pigeons named CORNSHORE 4 (17th) and CORNSHORE 2 (374th) both bred by SEAN HUNT & FAMILY with a total velocity of 11.453 m/s. WELL DONE TO ALL CONCERNED.

The 3-BIRD AVERAGE IN THE FINAL RACE carried a US$3,000 (approx. £2,400) CASH PRIZE. 1st GERMANY, 1st OPEN was won by TIM RUTKOWSKI (Team 1) from GERMANY with pigeons named THESEUS (4th), WONDERWOMAN (91st) and TIMOTIUS (162nd) all bred by TIM RUTKOWSKI with a total velocity of 18.924 m/s. THERE WERE NO UNITED KINGDOM OR IRISH WINNERS AS NO TEAM CLOCKED 3 PIGEONS. WELL DONE TO THIS GERMAN FANCIER.

THE ZANDY MEYER MEMORIAL MERCEDES SLK CAR NOMINATION which has a US$1,000 (approx. £800) ENTRY FEE NOMINATION PER PIGEON also took place on the “FINAL RACE” and the winner of A BRAND NEW MERCEDES SLK MOTOR CAR, (ONLY “ACTIVATED” PIGEONS ARE ELIGIBLE TO COMPETE FOR ANY OF THESE SPECIAL CASH PRIZES OR AWARDS). AS THERE WAS NOT ENOUGH ENTRIES TO AWARD THE CAR, A CASH PRIZE IS PAID OUT TO THE FIRST PIGEON CLOCKED IN THIS CATEGORY. This treasured award this year was won by SEAN HUNT & FAMILY from IRELAND with their pigeon named CORNSHORE 4 bred by SEAN HUNT & FAMILY from IRELAND that won 17th OPEN in THE FINAL RACE (see photograph left). THIS PIGEON BEAT 50 PIGEONS THAT WERE ENTERED INTO THIS PRESTIGIOUS COMPETITION. WHAT A FANTASTIC ACHIEVEMENT, WELL DONE TO THESE IRISH FANCIERS.

As per the race rules of this great International Race any UN-ACTIVATED pigeons
after one week after the 5th HOT SPOT RACE has taken place are listed on the SAMDPR Website FOR SALE at US$1,100 (approx. £880) each and anybody in the world can purchase any of these pigeons and whatever Prize Money they win in the Final Race goes to the new owners. However, if one of the UN-ACTIVATED pigeons that had been purchased wins a position in the top ten, the TROPHY and GOLD MEDAL goes to the person that originally entered it, plus the original owner gets any funds raised from the auction after the Final Race. This year there was 73 pigeons were NOT-ACTIVATED by their owners after HOT SPOT RACE 5 and when the list went on the SAMDPR Website all 73 of these were sold prior to the race, meaning that no pigeons were actually not flying for Prize Money in the Final Race. As usual quite a few of these pigeons won Prize Money for their new owners. WELL DONE TO ALL CONCERNED.

THE KNOCKOUT COMPETITION for the 2019/2020 race series offered a US$25,000 (approx. £20,000) FIRST PRIZE and only fully paid up pigeon before basketing of Hot Spot Race 1 are eligible to compete for this great cash prize. A total of 1,785 pigeons were entered into this prestigious competition. This fantastic competition offers the following conditions and one lucky winner will walk away with “THE POT OF GOLD” after the Final Race. These rules are as follows:- This competition will take place over the last four Hot Spot Races and the Final Race, if however any Hot Spot Races are cancelled the race committee can use a Training Race to replace any Hot Spot Race. THE FINAL RACE took place on SATURDAY 1st FEBRUARY 2020 and just 45 top class pigeons were competing and the first pigeon clocked of these remaining 45 KNOCKOUT PIGEONS will walk away this coveted First Prize of US$25,000 (approx. £20,000). I can now announce that the winner actually of this competition took 22nd OPEN in THE FINAL RACE and was the BERKSHIRE BOYS from UNITED KINGDOM with pigeon named MISS MAURICE and bred by MAURICE O’DONNELL from DUNGARVAN, IRELAND (see photograph left). This pigeon was sold at auction after the Final Race to Mike Ganus USA for a staggering US$95,000 (approx. US$6,419) or (approx. E5,818) or (approx. £4,864). WELL DONE TO ALL THESE PIGEONS. THIS REALLY IS A GREAT INTERNATIONAL COMPETITION THAT CREATED A TREMENDOUS AMOUNT OF EXTRA INTEREST AND EXCITEMENT THROUGHOUT THE 2019/2020 RACE SERIES.

Saturday evening was the Gala/Presentation Dinner which took place in the Kilimanjaro Rooms and was supposed to start at 19.30. This was put back to 20.00 because quite a few of us were still at the Race Loft awaiting the arrival of the pigeons. By the time we got back to the hotel and got washed and showed and downstairs the food was already being served, it looked stunning to say the least, fanciers and friends were all sitting down and all the tables were full. Our superb Master of Ceremonies for the evening was once again Keith Lindsey who got everybody in the right mood before introducing Sara Blackshaw (Director of Air Sport Internationale) and she spoke about the tough race the pigeons had encountered today and explained to everybody present why the pigeons were liberated at 600km (373 miles). She thanked everybody for their support and wished them all a safe journey home and hoped to see them all next year at the 25th SILVER ANNIVERSARY SAMDPR. It was then the turn for Michael Holt (Race Director) who also had a few words to say about the training and racing that had already taken place during the 2019/2020 race season and congratulated everybody on their achievements in the Final Race. Once again he stressed it had been a tough year with heavy rain, thunderstorms and record temperatures. He also stated that whatever weather forecast you may get, it can always change and it usually does. Unfortunately, there is not a book written that tells you how to run a pigeon race, so we have learnt from scratch and found out what works and what is practical and what benefits all. Then Joan-e Holt (Public Relations) joined Sara Blackshaw (Director of ASI) the others and special awards were given out to Michael Holt (Race Director), Pieter Saayman (Systems Administration), Stephan Steenkamp (Systems Administration), Willi van Beers (Loft Manager), Andre van Wyk (Loft Manager), Corrie Naude (Convoyer/Trainer), Marion Branford (Administration), Joan-e Holt (Public Relations), Dr Piet van Zyl (Veterinary Officer), Maitland White Blackshaw (Loft Assistant, Transport Driver & Pigeon Photographer), Renier Vorster (Fossie) (Loft Assistant), plus of course thanks to all the 10 Lofts Lads for all their hard work during the year. Once again it was mentioned that Gary Lance the owner of Heron Banks Golf & River Estate and of course the staff of Emerald Resort, Casino & Hotel had gone out of their way to assist from the start, without their help and assistance we could never have hosted such a race, thanks again for all your help. All were given much applause. Hope I did not miss anybody out, if I did I apologise. All the top 3 Trophies & Gold Medals winners were announced but unfortunately none of the winners were present, so these will be passed over very soon to the winners. The remaining 7 Trophies & Gold Medals for 3rd to 10th will be sent out to the winners. After a fantastic evening of light entertainment, food and drink it was once again time to say our goodbyes to many fanciers and friends and when this had been done, it was as usual the British, Irish groups that were last to leave the hall as they as usual were celebrating after a wonderful race day. Then it was back to the hotel bar for one more drinks, as I had to be at the Race Loft by 5am.

I was up bright and early at 04.30 on Sunday morning and Michael Holt (Race Director) collected me from my hotel and drove me to the Race Loft to watch the second day pigeons arrive. Quite a few fanciers turned up to watch the arrival of the pigeons.

Sara Blackshaw who has a lovely house on Heron Banks Golf & River Estate had invited all fanciers and guests attending the SAMDPR to her home from 12 o’clock onwards to enjoy a few drinks and a lamb spit braai. Quite a few people attended this closing event. A great way to say our goodbyes and thankyous to all our fanciers and friends. Buses were supplied to bring people and return them to the Emerald Resort Hotel. Unfortunately, because I was at the Race Lofts looking for pigeons I did not arrive till well after 13.30 as we had to wait at the lofts till the 300 cash winners were clocked. Some fanciers and guests had to leave early to catch their transfers or flights but those that stayed all had a great afternoon. Many thanks Sara for your great hospitality, it was appreciated by all that attended.

It should also be mentioned and noted once again the fantastic amount of work and effort Sara Blackshaw (Director of Air Sport Internationale) puts into this race, she works tirelessly to make sure that this pigeon race keeps where it has been for the last 24 years and that is without doubt THE BEST PIGEON RACE IN THE WORLD.

It was once again great to meet up and talk to such world renowned fanciers as
Willi van Beers, Werner Waldow, Silvia Thiel, Klaus Stieneker from Germany, Ton de Kovel from Netherlands, Corrie Naude, Andre van Wyk, Renier Vorster (Fossie), Hein Beneke, Allan Jordaan, Joe Gomes, Butch Einkamerer, Mark Kitchenbrand, Eric Brown, Jurie, Jurie & (Jnr) & Daleen Erwee, Roger Harris, Gary Fang, Samual Lofts all from South Africa, Gerry McCourt & Kathleen from Ireland, Steven Fang from China, Tad Truszkowski, Michael & Richard Mellor from United Kingdom plus Paul Stokes also from the United Kingdom who has recently moved out to South Africa about 3 years ago. Plus, over the race weekend I also talked to many other top renowned International and South African pigeon fanciers.

This year it was decided to try a different way to photograph all the pigeons that returned from the Final Race and this massive task was left to Maitland White Blackshaw. This was of course a tremendous amount of work but finally with the help and assistance of all the Loft Staff he completed this extremely frustrating project. This year he photographed around 700 pigeons. I watched him photograph many of these world class winning pigeons and he took thousands of photographs which were then used for the SAMDPR Auctions that will take place all around South Africa. WELL DONE MAITLAND ON COMPLETING THIS MASSIVE TASK.

As the International Race Co-ordinator for the 24th year Paul Smith would like to personally thank all the Country Race Shippers/Co-ordinators, Frank Nebig from Animals To Fly, Allan Jordaan the Master of Ceremonies at the E&E Centre, Hein Beneke the auctioneer, all the Loft Lads, Keith Lindsay Master of Ceremonies at the Welcome/Gala Dinners, Keith McLintock & Brett Lindsay from Big Brave Digital the Livestream Team, Peter Furstenberg from Shine Interactive and all the staff who work for the SAMDPR, all the backroom staff who we do not see and in fact anybody that has something to do for the SAMDPR a really BIG THANK YOU for all your help and assistance during the past year as without your help and support the race could not continue. I would also like to personally thank Sara Blackshaw (Director of Air Sport Internationale, The Presenters of this Race) for her continued great support and taking this great race forward into the future. CONGRATULATIONS TO EVERYBODY, YOU ALL REALLY DO A FANTASTIC JOB.