Farming Life - Wednesday 02/03/11
Posted: Wed Mar 02, 2011 6:08 pm
INFC – 2011 AGM
The 61st Annual General Meeting of the Irish National Flying Club was held in the Lagan Valley Leisure Plex, Lisburn on Saturday, 26th February. The attendance was down slightly on the previous few years but this was maybe due to the NIPA AGM being on the same day and the fact that there was only one proposal on the agenda.
The Chairman, Eugene Fitzgerald after accepting a number of apologies asked the members to stand for a minute’s silence in respect of those members who had dies during the past year, in particular Henry Beattie and Ronnie Watson. The Secretary, Trevor Topping, was invited to read the minutes of the previous AGM which were passed. The Convoyers Race reports were on the table and available to the members. The reports for both Skibbereen Nationals were read, as there had been some discussion about this race point at last years AGM. According to the Convoyer’s report there were no problems this year and we had two perfect liberations. The Secretary then read his report.
SECRETARY’s REPORT
“The 2010 membership was 1927 with 624 members in the south and 1303 in the north, It is disappointing to see the number of members below 2000 and I appeal to all members to promote the club and what it has to offer especially in the south of Ireland. Members who left totalled 187, this is 9.7%. New members totalled 171.
I wish to thank on behalf of the members the following sponsors for the 2010 season: Bamfords Top flight, Samuel McCausland Ltd, Buckton’s Premium Pigeon Feeds, Versele Laga, Natural Granen, Harkers Homoform, Veterinary Services for Birds, Gem Supplements Ltd, and Sawyers & Co. Estate Agents. Each race had sponsors prizes, which were greatly appreciated by the members and thanks also to those members who obtained the sponsorship. Also the BHW with a discount on publishing rates for race results.
A new trophy was presented during 2010 by the family of the late James McGrugan of Doagh, to be presented to the section winner not winning the open in the yearling national. Thanks to all concerned.
The club had a successful seasons racing with some races proving challenging and St Malo very disappointing. Thanks to the efforts of race advisors David Black, Tom Marshall and Willie Hore we managed to avoid poor weather. Race markings and race dates were changed to avoid long holdovers, and these proved to be the right decisions. A great help and friends of the club are Chris MacDubhail and Marcel Gobin, site agent who provides the release site in Plaudren, France. As you are all aware we had probably the best returns ever from a French race. I congratulate all winners of national races and prizewinners. Ronnie Johnston arranged the annual prize distribution to a very high standard once again, (tickets were sold out 8 weeks before the date), and it was good to have Mr & Mrs Geoff Cooper former NFC King’s Cup winners from Bath present the awards with every trophy being handed out.
Mr Sid Collins arranged a presentation evening in January to present the merit awards, and had Chris Gordon, Yorkshire as the special guest. We also had as guests some of the senior members of the club. The evening proved very successful.
I wish to thank the committees of the East Down Combine and Ulster Federation for assistance with transport during the 2010 season. On behalf of the members I wish to thank all those committee members and members who helped at the race markings, clock settings and checkings, race controllers, convoyers and drivers. Also to the ETS company representatives for assistance at race markings. The club web site was put to good use in 2010 and results were available three or four days after the race. We hope to have more information on the web site during 2011 and thanks to Ian Gill for his assistance.
Clock setting took place at the marking centre last season and this has proved to be popular with the members who required a clock set.
I wish to thank the officials, the committee members, press officer and any members who helped me in any way during the past season. The 2011 season is fast approaching and I appeal for help at the marking centre if only for a few hours as those members of the committee who faithfully attend the race markings are struggling to cope. The single bird challenge entries are to be in before 17th March.
I hope we all have a successful 2011 season.”
ANNUAL ACCOUNTS
No questions had been asked prior to the meeting regarding the Annual accounts and Allan McDonald from Portadown gave the yearly report before they were adopted.
Auditors Report:
“The financial objective each year is to break even, unless we decide to give back some of the previous surpluses to the members in the form of extra prize money. If you look at the Balance Sheet under the Capital account you will note that there was a surplus on races of £919 and a loss of £639 on the races giving a surplus of £280 so as close to break even as you will get. I will deal with any previous surpluses or funds later.
Although there was an overall surplus on races you will see from the accounts that there were surpluses on the Yearling race, Skibbereen Old and Young birds, with losses on the Kings Cup, Penzance Young Bird and Friendship. The cross channel races incur more expenses and it is the club policy to keep entry fees at less than cost and cover the costs from the other races. The Yearling National continues to be the best supported race and after 2009 the prize-money was increased last year by £2000 and it has still made a surplus due to decreased costs and an increased entry.
Excluding the Friendship National, the race expenses only increased by 1% from almost £33000 to £33400 and I congratulate Trevor on keeping good control on costs.
You will note that the Friendship went from a surplus in 2009 to a loss last year of £2000. This is due to using a transporter solely for our birds and of course costs will not be covered by a small entry of 881 which was down from 1014 last year. The committee feel that although this is a high cost it is best for the birds and we can only hope that future entries will increase to reduce the loss.
It was good that the total number of birds entered increased from 17159 to 18139 with good increases in both young bird races.
As I said the revenue account had a small deficit of £639 and this was down to a loss last year of £1968. You will note that income from members was similar and costs decreased. As you will see £17000 of members’ fees are used to offset race costs.
The Balance Sheet shows that cash funds are £75000 but £10000 of this is being paid back to the Show Committee as this was not used to buy a transporter and the transporter fund will be closed and moved to the capital account this year. The reserves are still very healthy and the committee has decided to give some back to the members in the form of free nominations for both the single bird challenge in the Kings cup and the 3 bird challenge for the Yearling and Channel young bird race. The single bird challenge will pay out £1500 over 12 prizes and the 3-bird challenge will pay a 1st prize of £1000. It was hoped that a sponsor could be found for a second prize. This has not happened yet but it is not too late for someone or company to come forward. The free entry means less work for officials and everyone should now have a go and thus increase the competition. One should say that the member’s fees of £15 can now give them the opportunity to of £15 free nominations and a better deal for members could not be found.
It has been decided to invest £40000 in a bank deposit account. This has been done and will earn some interest this year.
I thank the committee for all their hard work in running the club especially at race markings. Special thanks to Ronnie Johnston for organizing the dinner and to Sid Collins and our President Eugene for the Merit Award presentation. This was well received by all the winners and the club members who were invited. This I am sure will be just one more highlight in the clubs calendar.
I thank Trevor and our treasurer David for all their hard work during the year and to wish you all good racing in 2011”
Election of Officers
All offices were declared vacant and Sid Collins was invited to conduct the election. It was a case of the same again for all the top posts to serve their second year having been elected to serve a 3-year term from 2010. Officials for 2011 are: Patron – Ronnie Johnston, President – Sid Collins, Senior Vice President – Eugene Fitzgerald, Junior Vice President – David Black, Chairman Eugene Fitzgerald, Secretary – Trevor Topping, Treasurer Davy Mawhinney, Auditor – Allan McDonald,
INFC Management Committee 2011: RPRA representatives: R Stevenson Dromara, R Duddy Ballyclare, L Woodside Ballyclare, J Serplus Laurelvale, C O’Hare Ballyholland, P Smith Ind RPRA, C Lyons Hillsborough & Maze, G Delaney Dromore, G McDowell Kells, W Reynolds Ballymena, D Suitters Doagh, W Knowles Kingsmoss, P Gault Kingsmoss, W Sawyers Banbridge, B Kelly Ind RPRA. INFC Appeals committee: S Cairns Gilford, J Burrows Eastway, P Gault Banbridge.
IHU Representatives: L McCavery Annalong, B McLoughlin Annalong, G Gaw East End, AMcFarland East End, T Marshall Newtownbreda, B Marshall Newtownbreda, A Milliken Lagan Valley, M Johnston West Belfast, M Irvine Tyrella, J Erwin, Fortfield, T O’Reilly Andersonstown, G Shaw Grosvenor, C Browne Bangor, R Taylor Shankill, R Trimble Ballynahinch:
INFC Appeals committee: J Albert Ballylesson, J McCavanagh Balbriggan, PJ Corcoran Balbriggan:
Race Advisors: W Hore Wexford, D Black Dromara, T Marshall Newtownbreda:
The positions of the Press Officer and the Convoyer were left to the committee to complete.
Notice of Motion
Submitted by the committee:
“The Old Hens national is removed from the race programme.” This was passed unanimously.
Ronnie Johnston gave the INFC Charity Show report. He said that the new venue proved to be an excellent venue and thanked all those who worked so hard to obtain the premises. He thanked all those who had worked so hard to prepare for the show and all those who helped on the day. It has been decided that all the charities that will benefit from this year’s show will be children’s cancer related charities. Ronnie thanked all who had donated pigeons to the sale and said it was a record sale in spite of the current economic downturn and wished everybody a successful 2011.
Eugene Fitzgerald then presented Jimmy Hughes of the charity committee with the cheque for £10000, being the refund of the donation for the transporter fund.
A discussion took place on the awarding of diplomas for national and section winners. This was to be looked into at the next committee meeting. Sid Collins congratulated Eugene Fitzgerald on his appointment as President of the Confederation and Eugene gave a short update from the Confederation Meeting.
The next committee meeting will be held in Lisburn & District HPS on Monday 21st March at 7.30pm. Can I thank Brendan McLoughlin who assisted me in the past season with area reports and who covered the AGM Report in my absence.
INFC Race Programme
The proposed programme is: Skibbereen North OB Inl Nat Tuesday 24th May, Sennen Cove Yearling Nat Wednesday 8th June, Plaudren Vannes Grand National Friday 1st July, St Malo Friendship Nat Friday 8th July, Penzance YB Grand National Wednesday 7th September and Skibbereen North Inl YB Nat Saturday 17th September.
NIPA – Low Key AGM
The 66th AGM for the NIPA was held in Glenavy on Saturday 26th February, it had been delayed for one week due to the accounts not being ready because the person involved had been in hospital. Unfortunately with the INFC meeting brought forward by one week, we had a clash of dates and I do believe it did effect the attendance. After a delayed start the voting details were released regarding the racing season, old birds had been confirmed already but for the young birds there was a choice of two programme’s. The one submitted jointly with Larne & Londonderry was dominated by Area Liberations, the members however decided to stick with the old programme from the season previous. Not all clubs had returned their voting papers, from those that did the voting was roughly 2-1 in favour of the standing programme. It’s an impossible task to satisfy the whole of a big organization and I suppose in this regard mid-week tosses could be some sort of fall back position.
The agreed programme’s are as follows, to be confirmed by the next committee meeting to be held on Monday 15th March.
The agreed Old Bird Race Programme for 2011.
Sat 9th April Tullamore, Sat 16th April Tullamore, Sat 23rd April Roscrea, Sat 30th April Clonmel, Sat 7th May Fermoy, Sat 14th May Rosscarbery OB Inland Nat, Sat 21st May Fermoy, Sat 28th May Talbenny, Tuesday 31st May Yearling Nat Cock/Hen Rosscarbery, Sat 4th June Talbenny, Sat 4th June Fermoy, Sat 11th June Bude, Sat 11th June Fermoy 5 Bird Championship, Sat 18th June Penzance & Penzance OB Classic, Friday 24th June St Malo OB National.
Young Birds programme: Sat 9th July Training Toss Mullingar (2 Liberations) ie. Top Half Clubs above 54:36, Bottom Half Clubs below 54:36. Sat 16th July Tullamore Official Race (2 Liberations, as above), Sat 23rd July Tullamore (Mass Liberation), Sat 30th July Roscrea, Sat 6th August Roscrea, Sat 13th August Clonmel, Sat 20th August Fermoy, Sat 27th August Talbenny YB Nat, Sat 27th August Tullamore, Sat 3rd September Fermoy & Fermoy 5 Bird Championship, Sat 10th September Rosscarbery YB Inland National.
Chairman for the meeting Alan Darragh called order and asked that all members had signed the attendance book, he then called for a moments silence in respect of members who had passed away in the previous season. This included long standing Assistant Secretary Ronnie Watson whose funeral service had been held a couple of days earlier in Dromore Cathedral.
The meeting may have started a bit late but it moved on at high speed with the Secretary Fred Russell reading the minutes of the previous AGM.
These were accepted as a true record with nothing arising, as was the Secretary’s Report which had been sent to all clubs and published in the Fancy Press, then the accounts and we had no other 2010 Business. All items were pushed through very quickly, as was the case the year previous.
Joe Kelly from Londonderry had been installed as the new President for 2010/2011 and was again invited to conduct the remainder of Election of Officials. Joe has had poor health for the past number of months but has improved and is looking forward to his second season as NIPA President, he thanked the members very sincerely for their support. Alan Darragh from Cullybackey had been added last season to the post of Vice President to follow Senior Vice President Herbie Boyd from Dungannon. The remaining Vice Presidents are Malcolm Livingstone (Portadown), Ned Marshall (Killyleagh) and Diamond Carson (Banbridge).
All the top positions remained un-changed. Chairman Lyndin Boyle, Vice Chairman Alan Darragh, Financial Secretary Fred Russell, Assistant Secretary (to be filled later), Fleet Supervisor Terry Mulgrew, Convoyers Jim McDonald and Terry Mulgrew. Press Officer Willie Reynolds/Stephen McGarry, Race Advisor Ivan Mawhinney, Auditors Robinson & Co (Portadown). RPRA Delegates – F Russell, J Hollinger and S McGarry (Reserve)
For the Finance, Transport and General Purposes Management Committee most remained unchanged with Sect B & D the only ones involved in a vote between members. A further meeting is to be held in Sect G to fill the position left vacant by the resignation of Tommy Mooney. Sect A & H: A McDonnell, H Boyd, P McLaughlin. Sect B: K Wilkinson, G Magill, G McDowell, K Kernohan. Sect C: R Reid, D Campbell, W Ferguson, W Seaton, D Smyth, S McGarry. Sect D: J Vage Jnr, G McEvoy, and new members for Lisburn J McCready & B McKibben. Sect E: K Henderson, J Parr, G Campbell, S Corrigan. Sect F: P Murray, V Pollock, R Thompson. Sect G: D Carson, J Donaldson.
The meeting continued moving on to Resolutions, no discussion is allowed since all member clubs had local meetings to mandate their Delegates on voting procedure.
Resolution No 1. Submitted by the NIPA General Committee.
That any prize money cheque not cashed within two years of issue will be deleted from records. Carried unanimously.
Resolution No 2. Submitted by the NIPA General Committee.
That NIPA General Rule 3e be deleted in its entirety. General Rule 3e reads: If necessary matters raised at Section Meetings may be referred to the Management Committee for their consideration. Carried 37 For, 18 Against.
Before the Ballymena & Dist items came up some points were raised regarding RPRA Rules and the amount of time changes had to be put forward before an AGM. The Chairman was minded to either rule all Resolutions out including the two already passed or to vote on them all. At this stage Ballymena withdrew their Resolutions and indicated they would be put back up for next year. The Ballymena items were a mixture of items raised at a Sect B meeting and some of their own. On a vote already passed on Saturday the meeting agreed to Delete General Rule 3 and take away the right of Sect Meetings to refer items to the Management Committee.
The Ballymena & Dist Resolution is to put it back in, slightly modified to include Resolutions. We should encourage debate, that has always been my opinion for what its worth, and allow more people to have an input into changes. The Sect B Meeting had one quarter of the attendance at the NIPA Annual meeting, yet had no mandate to put forward issues raised. With the decision on Resolutions cut short, the Annual General Meeting was closed.
The Chairman opened a Delegates Meeting for some discussion. A point was brought forward regarding the Welfare of the birds especially at race points. This issue has been raised before and I have no doubt the next Committee Meeting will put in place a role of work that ensures everything regarding the welfare of the birds en route to race points and especially liberation are carried out satisfactorily and without complaint. Some question on the loading of the transporter at various locations including Derry City. It was felt the drivers should have the responsibility and make decisions on loading. With a lot of the Delegates already leaving, and no further points raised the meeting came to a conclusion.
Foyle Valley Combine -
Members in the North West clubs are putting the finishing touches to a new level of competition, the Foyle Valley Combine. It will involve and be open to all the members in all the Derry City clubs, Strabane and Limavady. The £5 per year membership will assist in the production of a Framed Diploma for all winners. Paul Maxwell is looking after Derry City members, Tony Conway those in Strabane and they need a member contact for Limavady. I look forward to covering the results when they get up and running.
BHW/INFC SINGLE BIRD & DUDDY CHALLENGE
I would also like to congratulate everybody who timed a Challenge pigeon and wish everyone success in the 2011 Single Bird Challenge, which is going to be free to enter, the entry deadline is the same 17th March. Every member will receive an entry form with their statement of accounts and this can be posted or delivered to David Black. The INFC is guaranteeing £1,500 in prize money, there will be twelve prizes: 1st £500, 2nd £300, 3rd £200, 4th £100, 5th-12th £50, W Sawyers and Co. are again sponsoring the Diplomas for 1st, 2nd and 3rd, the winner will also receive the J Doheny Trophy. The Robin Duddy Challenge is also going to be free with £1,000 guaranteed, all you have to do is mark your three birds on the Yearling National race entry sheet and the same for Penzance Young Bird National you only need to time any one of the three in each race. Anyone needing clarification can call me on 07876157706, David Black. The Free Nominations which usually cost £15 are a fantastic competition for all the INFC membership, the deadline is fast approaching for the Single Bird Challenge at 17th March, return your entry on time to David Black.
Lost: While on loan in the Cullybackey Area, Van Hee Mealy cock GB09S 96182. Will local fanciers please check their lofts, contact Homer Tel: 07538 238364.
The AGM for Mid Antrim Combine will be held in the Harryville HPS Clubrooms on Wednesday 16th March at 8.00pm. Two Delegates from each club to vote on proposals. Any queries contact Secretary George McDowell.
Doagh Moot & Breeder/Buyer Sale
The Doagh & District annual Moot will take place in McConnell’s Lounge in Doagh on Friday 11th March with Kick-off 7.30pm. The panel is Dolan & Mickey Croskery (Annsborough), Martin Graham (Ballymena & Dist) and one for the sprinters Ron McKelvey (Newry & District). There will be a small draft of 2011 young birds for auction and a supper provided at half time, entry is £5 and every one will be made welcome. On Saturday 19th March the Doagh & District Breeder/Buyer Sale will take place in McConnell’s Lounge at 1.30pm sharp. Cards only and open to lofts in NIPA Section B & C the 3rd & 5th young bird races will be hot spot races, £100 per Hotspot with the main race the Talbenny young bird National N.I.P.A. In 2010 the Doagh & Dist club paid out £1,300 in breeder buyer prizes, and with many youngsters already promised from top local and mainland UK lofts we hope this year will be even better.
Breeder & Buyer Charity Sale –
This annual Breeder/Buyer Sale will be held in the Banbridge Royal British Legion on Friday 25th March at 8.00pm with half the total proceeds going to the NI Children’s Hospice. Pigeons have been donated from many of the leading lofts in both Northern and Southern Ireland. The race to be used for the event will be the INFC Penzance YB Nat of 2011. 1st will win 50% divided between breeder and buyer, 2nd will win 30% and 3rd 20% based on the same criterion. All birds donated must be penned on night of sale. Some additional information in the event of only two birds timed divide will be 60% and 40%, only one bird timed divide will be 50% and 50%. Should no birds be recorded in race time, total proceeds will be presented to the above charity. Contact details for the sale: T Lennon Tel: 07711 409205, E McAlinden Tel: 07771 813198, D Carson Tel: 07813 265311.
Springvale Gold Ring -
Springvale Social Golden Ring Result - 1st S Rodney & Son 1487 plus £750, 2nd A Gault 1467 plus £150, 3rd G & L Simpson 1435 plus £100. Many thanks to all involved with the Gold Ring Race, all those who supported the event from Rosscarbery and many congratulations to the various winners. We are all looking forward to the 2011 Golden Ring, and rings will be available from the start of the year. Just 100 rings will be sold at £20 each and £1,000 paid out in tree cuts with £750 to the winner. Open to the NIPA Clubs in Sections B & C. Contact Campbell McGrugan, Tel: (028) 93 340981.
JOE & MARK Brown, Lurgan, Northern Ireland. BT66 7BX
Due to such a demand all the early bred youngsters have been sold and the annual sale held in Glenavy each February will not take place. Birds from the 2nd Round will be available during March, 2nd and 3rd week. Bloodlines: Soontjen, Busschaert, FVW, SVR, Darragh, Beattie, Docx, Jacobs, Ken Hine, Van de Rhees etc – Don’t Wait, Order NOW! Tel: Mark or Joe 07709 077266.
Downshire Lofts – E McAlinden & Sons, Banbridge
First Open & First North Section Skibbereen National, First Open & First North Section Penzance Yearling National, Second Open & First North Section Penance Yearling National etc. ON OFFER: 2nd Round Young Birds for Sale. Kit’s of 6 @ £200 - Ready at End of March. For more details call Eddie Tel: 07771813198.
Martin Graham, Ballymena & District – His first two rounds of young birds are for sale, direct from race team and stock birds. This loft scores from all distances, good deals for larger orders. Tel: (028) 256379929. Mobile: 07835 099155.
Training Season -
Many thanks to all who send birds last season in the young birds. This season we will be covering the old bird season as well, will set dates probably in late March/early April. Birds can be left with Danny Dixon (Dunloy) for collection at 8.20am then Ballymoney HPS Clubrooms at 9.00am (Ballybracks Business Park), calling on way back at Rasharkin (Main St), Cullybackey, Ahoghill HPS Clubrooms, and Galgorm/Gracehill (Contact Cowan Balmer at Royal Court) approx 10.15am. Contact me on my Mobile. Tel: 07538 238364. Weather permitting we will be going weekly on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, we update weekly on www.pigeonnetwork.com
Teurling Gold Ring Classic –
Mark Evans of Heart of England Auctions is the man behind the Teurling Gold Ring Classic flown on Monday 29th August 2011. Ronnie Johnston had a call from Mark who said he had phone calls from fanciers in Northern Ireland enquiring how they can get rings. Mark recons this is the best gamble in pigeons a staggering £68,000 was paid out last year, rings were £30 for two both entered as one loft and a maximum of two rings per loft. It is open to all members of the Western and West Midland Regions. The Futurity Sale dates are Monday 28th February, 13th, 21st and 28th March and the final sale on Monday 11th April. John Millar will take the Gold Ring young birds across to Mark Evans in Birmingham before each sale. If any Northern Ireland fancier would like to take part in this exciting race get in touch with Ronnie Johnston, he has the rings now. Last year the winner collected £7,500.
The 61st Annual General Meeting of the Irish National Flying Club was held in the Lagan Valley Leisure Plex, Lisburn on Saturday, 26th February. The attendance was down slightly on the previous few years but this was maybe due to the NIPA AGM being on the same day and the fact that there was only one proposal on the agenda.
The Chairman, Eugene Fitzgerald after accepting a number of apologies asked the members to stand for a minute’s silence in respect of those members who had dies during the past year, in particular Henry Beattie and Ronnie Watson. The Secretary, Trevor Topping, was invited to read the minutes of the previous AGM which were passed. The Convoyers Race reports were on the table and available to the members. The reports for both Skibbereen Nationals were read, as there had been some discussion about this race point at last years AGM. According to the Convoyer’s report there were no problems this year and we had two perfect liberations. The Secretary then read his report.
SECRETARY’s REPORT
“The 2010 membership was 1927 with 624 members in the south and 1303 in the north, It is disappointing to see the number of members below 2000 and I appeal to all members to promote the club and what it has to offer especially in the south of Ireland. Members who left totalled 187, this is 9.7%. New members totalled 171.
I wish to thank on behalf of the members the following sponsors for the 2010 season: Bamfords Top flight, Samuel McCausland Ltd, Buckton’s Premium Pigeon Feeds, Versele Laga, Natural Granen, Harkers Homoform, Veterinary Services for Birds, Gem Supplements Ltd, and Sawyers & Co. Estate Agents. Each race had sponsors prizes, which were greatly appreciated by the members and thanks also to those members who obtained the sponsorship. Also the BHW with a discount on publishing rates for race results.
A new trophy was presented during 2010 by the family of the late James McGrugan of Doagh, to be presented to the section winner not winning the open in the yearling national. Thanks to all concerned.
The club had a successful seasons racing with some races proving challenging and St Malo very disappointing. Thanks to the efforts of race advisors David Black, Tom Marshall and Willie Hore we managed to avoid poor weather. Race markings and race dates were changed to avoid long holdovers, and these proved to be the right decisions. A great help and friends of the club are Chris MacDubhail and Marcel Gobin, site agent who provides the release site in Plaudren, France. As you are all aware we had probably the best returns ever from a French race. I congratulate all winners of national races and prizewinners. Ronnie Johnston arranged the annual prize distribution to a very high standard once again, (tickets were sold out 8 weeks before the date), and it was good to have Mr & Mrs Geoff Cooper former NFC King’s Cup winners from Bath present the awards with every trophy being handed out.
Mr Sid Collins arranged a presentation evening in January to present the merit awards, and had Chris Gordon, Yorkshire as the special guest. We also had as guests some of the senior members of the club. The evening proved very successful.
I wish to thank the committees of the East Down Combine and Ulster Federation for assistance with transport during the 2010 season. On behalf of the members I wish to thank all those committee members and members who helped at the race markings, clock settings and checkings, race controllers, convoyers and drivers. Also to the ETS company representatives for assistance at race markings. The club web site was put to good use in 2010 and results were available three or four days after the race. We hope to have more information on the web site during 2011 and thanks to Ian Gill for his assistance.
Clock setting took place at the marking centre last season and this has proved to be popular with the members who required a clock set.
I wish to thank the officials, the committee members, press officer and any members who helped me in any way during the past season. The 2011 season is fast approaching and I appeal for help at the marking centre if only for a few hours as those members of the committee who faithfully attend the race markings are struggling to cope. The single bird challenge entries are to be in before 17th March.
I hope we all have a successful 2011 season.”
ANNUAL ACCOUNTS
No questions had been asked prior to the meeting regarding the Annual accounts and Allan McDonald from Portadown gave the yearly report before they were adopted.
Auditors Report:
“The financial objective each year is to break even, unless we decide to give back some of the previous surpluses to the members in the form of extra prize money. If you look at the Balance Sheet under the Capital account you will note that there was a surplus on races of £919 and a loss of £639 on the races giving a surplus of £280 so as close to break even as you will get. I will deal with any previous surpluses or funds later.
Although there was an overall surplus on races you will see from the accounts that there were surpluses on the Yearling race, Skibbereen Old and Young birds, with losses on the Kings Cup, Penzance Young Bird and Friendship. The cross channel races incur more expenses and it is the club policy to keep entry fees at less than cost and cover the costs from the other races. The Yearling National continues to be the best supported race and after 2009 the prize-money was increased last year by £2000 and it has still made a surplus due to decreased costs and an increased entry.
Excluding the Friendship National, the race expenses only increased by 1% from almost £33000 to £33400 and I congratulate Trevor on keeping good control on costs.
You will note that the Friendship went from a surplus in 2009 to a loss last year of £2000. This is due to using a transporter solely for our birds and of course costs will not be covered by a small entry of 881 which was down from 1014 last year. The committee feel that although this is a high cost it is best for the birds and we can only hope that future entries will increase to reduce the loss.
It was good that the total number of birds entered increased from 17159 to 18139 with good increases in both young bird races.
As I said the revenue account had a small deficit of £639 and this was down to a loss last year of £1968. You will note that income from members was similar and costs decreased. As you will see £17000 of members’ fees are used to offset race costs.
The Balance Sheet shows that cash funds are £75000 but £10000 of this is being paid back to the Show Committee as this was not used to buy a transporter and the transporter fund will be closed and moved to the capital account this year. The reserves are still very healthy and the committee has decided to give some back to the members in the form of free nominations for both the single bird challenge in the Kings cup and the 3 bird challenge for the Yearling and Channel young bird race. The single bird challenge will pay out £1500 over 12 prizes and the 3-bird challenge will pay a 1st prize of £1000. It was hoped that a sponsor could be found for a second prize. This has not happened yet but it is not too late for someone or company to come forward. The free entry means less work for officials and everyone should now have a go and thus increase the competition. One should say that the member’s fees of £15 can now give them the opportunity to of £15 free nominations and a better deal for members could not be found.
It has been decided to invest £40000 in a bank deposit account. This has been done and will earn some interest this year.
I thank the committee for all their hard work in running the club especially at race markings. Special thanks to Ronnie Johnston for organizing the dinner and to Sid Collins and our President Eugene for the Merit Award presentation. This was well received by all the winners and the club members who were invited. This I am sure will be just one more highlight in the clubs calendar.
I thank Trevor and our treasurer David for all their hard work during the year and to wish you all good racing in 2011”
Election of Officers
All offices were declared vacant and Sid Collins was invited to conduct the election. It was a case of the same again for all the top posts to serve their second year having been elected to serve a 3-year term from 2010. Officials for 2011 are: Patron – Ronnie Johnston, President – Sid Collins, Senior Vice President – Eugene Fitzgerald, Junior Vice President – David Black, Chairman Eugene Fitzgerald, Secretary – Trevor Topping, Treasurer Davy Mawhinney, Auditor – Allan McDonald,
INFC Management Committee 2011: RPRA representatives: R Stevenson Dromara, R Duddy Ballyclare, L Woodside Ballyclare, J Serplus Laurelvale, C O’Hare Ballyholland, P Smith Ind RPRA, C Lyons Hillsborough & Maze, G Delaney Dromore, G McDowell Kells, W Reynolds Ballymena, D Suitters Doagh, W Knowles Kingsmoss, P Gault Kingsmoss, W Sawyers Banbridge, B Kelly Ind RPRA. INFC Appeals committee: S Cairns Gilford, J Burrows Eastway, P Gault Banbridge.
IHU Representatives: L McCavery Annalong, B McLoughlin Annalong, G Gaw East End, AMcFarland East End, T Marshall Newtownbreda, B Marshall Newtownbreda, A Milliken Lagan Valley, M Johnston West Belfast, M Irvine Tyrella, J Erwin, Fortfield, T O’Reilly Andersonstown, G Shaw Grosvenor, C Browne Bangor, R Taylor Shankill, R Trimble Ballynahinch:
INFC Appeals committee: J Albert Ballylesson, J McCavanagh Balbriggan, PJ Corcoran Balbriggan:
Race Advisors: W Hore Wexford, D Black Dromara, T Marshall Newtownbreda:
The positions of the Press Officer and the Convoyer were left to the committee to complete.
Notice of Motion
Submitted by the committee:
“The Old Hens national is removed from the race programme.” This was passed unanimously.
Ronnie Johnston gave the INFC Charity Show report. He said that the new venue proved to be an excellent venue and thanked all those who worked so hard to obtain the premises. He thanked all those who had worked so hard to prepare for the show and all those who helped on the day. It has been decided that all the charities that will benefit from this year’s show will be children’s cancer related charities. Ronnie thanked all who had donated pigeons to the sale and said it was a record sale in spite of the current economic downturn and wished everybody a successful 2011.
Eugene Fitzgerald then presented Jimmy Hughes of the charity committee with the cheque for £10000, being the refund of the donation for the transporter fund.
A discussion took place on the awarding of diplomas for national and section winners. This was to be looked into at the next committee meeting. Sid Collins congratulated Eugene Fitzgerald on his appointment as President of the Confederation and Eugene gave a short update from the Confederation Meeting.
The next committee meeting will be held in Lisburn & District HPS on Monday 21st March at 7.30pm. Can I thank Brendan McLoughlin who assisted me in the past season with area reports and who covered the AGM Report in my absence.
INFC Race Programme
The proposed programme is: Skibbereen North OB Inl Nat Tuesday 24th May, Sennen Cove Yearling Nat Wednesday 8th June, Plaudren Vannes Grand National Friday 1st July, St Malo Friendship Nat Friday 8th July, Penzance YB Grand National Wednesday 7th September and Skibbereen North Inl YB Nat Saturday 17th September.
NIPA – Low Key AGM
The 66th AGM for the NIPA was held in Glenavy on Saturday 26th February, it had been delayed for one week due to the accounts not being ready because the person involved had been in hospital. Unfortunately with the INFC meeting brought forward by one week, we had a clash of dates and I do believe it did effect the attendance. After a delayed start the voting details were released regarding the racing season, old birds had been confirmed already but for the young birds there was a choice of two programme’s. The one submitted jointly with Larne & Londonderry was dominated by Area Liberations, the members however decided to stick with the old programme from the season previous. Not all clubs had returned their voting papers, from those that did the voting was roughly 2-1 in favour of the standing programme. It’s an impossible task to satisfy the whole of a big organization and I suppose in this regard mid-week tosses could be some sort of fall back position.
The agreed programme’s are as follows, to be confirmed by the next committee meeting to be held on Monday 15th March.
The agreed Old Bird Race Programme for 2011.
Sat 9th April Tullamore, Sat 16th April Tullamore, Sat 23rd April Roscrea, Sat 30th April Clonmel, Sat 7th May Fermoy, Sat 14th May Rosscarbery OB Inland Nat, Sat 21st May Fermoy, Sat 28th May Talbenny, Tuesday 31st May Yearling Nat Cock/Hen Rosscarbery, Sat 4th June Talbenny, Sat 4th June Fermoy, Sat 11th June Bude, Sat 11th June Fermoy 5 Bird Championship, Sat 18th June Penzance & Penzance OB Classic, Friday 24th June St Malo OB National.
Young Birds programme: Sat 9th July Training Toss Mullingar (2 Liberations) ie. Top Half Clubs above 54:36, Bottom Half Clubs below 54:36. Sat 16th July Tullamore Official Race (2 Liberations, as above), Sat 23rd July Tullamore (Mass Liberation), Sat 30th July Roscrea, Sat 6th August Roscrea, Sat 13th August Clonmel, Sat 20th August Fermoy, Sat 27th August Talbenny YB Nat, Sat 27th August Tullamore, Sat 3rd September Fermoy & Fermoy 5 Bird Championship, Sat 10th September Rosscarbery YB Inland National.
Chairman for the meeting Alan Darragh called order and asked that all members had signed the attendance book, he then called for a moments silence in respect of members who had passed away in the previous season. This included long standing Assistant Secretary Ronnie Watson whose funeral service had been held a couple of days earlier in Dromore Cathedral.
The meeting may have started a bit late but it moved on at high speed with the Secretary Fred Russell reading the minutes of the previous AGM.
These were accepted as a true record with nothing arising, as was the Secretary’s Report which had been sent to all clubs and published in the Fancy Press, then the accounts and we had no other 2010 Business. All items were pushed through very quickly, as was the case the year previous.
Joe Kelly from Londonderry had been installed as the new President for 2010/2011 and was again invited to conduct the remainder of Election of Officials. Joe has had poor health for the past number of months but has improved and is looking forward to his second season as NIPA President, he thanked the members very sincerely for their support. Alan Darragh from Cullybackey had been added last season to the post of Vice President to follow Senior Vice President Herbie Boyd from Dungannon. The remaining Vice Presidents are Malcolm Livingstone (Portadown), Ned Marshall (Killyleagh) and Diamond Carson (Banbridge).
All the top positions remained un-changed. Chairman Lyndin Boyle, Vice Chairman Alan Darragh, Financial Secretary Fred Russell, Assistant Secretary (to be filled later), Fleet Supervisor Terry Mulgrew, Convoyers Jim McDonald and Terry Mulgrew. Press Officer Willie Reynolds/Stephen McGarry, Race Advisor Ivan Mawhinney, Auditors Robinson & Co (Portadown). RPRA Delegates – F Russell, J Hollinger and S McGarry (Reserve)
For the Finance, Transport and General Purposes Management Committee most remained unchanged with Sect B & D the only ones involved in a vote between members. A further meeting is to be held in Sect G to fill the position left vacant by the resignation of Tommy Mooney. Sect A & H: A McDonnell, H Boyd, P McLaughlin. Sect B: K Wilkinson, G Magill, G McDowell, K Kernohan. Sect C: R Reid, D Campbell, W Ferguson, W Seaton, D Smyth, S McGarry. Sect D: J Vage Jnr, G McEvoy, and new members for Lisburn J McCready & B McKibben. Sect E: K Henderson, J Parr, G Campbell, S Corrigan. Sect F: P Murray, V Pollock, R Thompson. Sect G: D Carson, J Donaldson.
The meeting continued moving on to Resolutions, no discussion is allowed since all member clubs had local meetings to mandate their Delegates on voting procedure.
Resolution No 1. Submitted by the NIPA General Committee.
That any prize money cheque not cashed within two years of issue will be deleted from records. Carried unanimously.
Resolution No 2. Submitted by the NIPA General Committee.
That NIPA General Rule 3e be deleted in its entirety. General Rule 3e reads: If necessary matters raised at Section Meetings may be referred to the Management Committee for their consideration. Carried 37 For, 18 Against.
Before the Ballymena & Dist items came up some points were raised regarding RPRA Rules and the amount of time changes had to be put forward before an AGM. The Chairman was minded to either rule all Resolutions out including the two already passed or to vote on them all. At this stage Ballymena withdrew their Resolutions and indicated they would be put back up for next year. The Ballymena items were a mixture of items raised at a Sect B meeting and some of their own. On a vote already passed on Saturday the meeting agreed to Delete General Rule 3 and take away the right of Sect Meetings to refer items to the Management Committee.
The Ballymena & Dist Resolution is to put it back in, slightly modified to include Resolutions. We should encourage debate, that has always been my opinion for what its worth, and allow more people to have an input into changes. The Sect B Meeting had one quarter of the attendance at the NIPA Annual meeting, yet had no mandate to put forward issues raised. With the decision on Resolutions cut short, the Annual General Meeting was closed.
The Chairman opened a Delegates Meeting for some discussion. A point was brought forward regarding the Welfare of the birds especially at race points. This issue has been raised before and I have no doubt the next Committee Meeting will put in place a role of work that ensures everything regarding the welfare of the birds en route to race points and especially liberation are carried out satisfactorily and without complaint. Some question on the loading of the transporter at various locations including Derry City. It was felt the drivers should have the responsibility and make decisions on loading. With a lot of the Delegates already leaving, and no further points raised the meeting came to a conclusion.
Foyle Valley Combine -
Members in the North West clubs are putting the finishing touches to a new level of competition, the Foyle Valley Combine. It will involve and be open to all the members in all the Derry City clubs, Strabane and Limavady. The £5 per year membership will assist in the production of a Framed Diploma for all winners. Paul Maxwell is looking after Derry City members, Tony Conway those in Strabane and they need a member contact for Limavady. I look forward to covering the results when they get up and running.
BHW/INFC SINGLE BIRD & DUDDY CHALLENGE
I would also like to congratulate everybody who timed a Challenge pigeon and wish everyone success in the 2011 Single Bird Challenge, which is going to be free to enter, the entry deadline is the same 17th March. Every member will receive an entry form with their statement of accounts and this can be posted or delivered to David Black. The INFC is guaranteeing £1,500 in prize money, there will be twelve prizes: 1st £500, 2nd £300, 3rd £200, 4th £100, 5th-12th £50, W Sawyers and Co. are again sponsoring the Diplomas for 1st, 2nd and 3rd, the winner will also receive the J Doheny Trophy. The Robin Duddy Challenge is also going to be free with £1,000 guaranteed, all you have to do is mark your three birds on the Yearling National race entry sheet and the same for Penzance Young Bird National you only need to time any one of the three in each race. Anyone needing clarification can call me on 07876157706, David Black. The Free Nominations which usually cost £15 are a fantastic competition for all the INFC membership, the deadline is fast approaching for the Single Bird Challenge at 17th March, return your entry on time to David Black.
Lost: While on loan in the Cullybackey Area, Van Hee Mealy cock GB09S 96182. Will local fanciers please check their lofts, contact Homer Tel: 07538 238364.
The AGM for Mid Antrim Combine will be held in the Harryville HPS Clubrooms on Wednesday 16th March at 8.00pm. Two Delegates from each club to vote on proposals. Any queries contact Secretary George McDowell.
Doagh Moot & Breeder/Buyer Sale
The Doagh & District annual Moot will take place in McConnell’s Lounge in Doagh on Friday 11th March with Kick-off 7.30pm. The panel is Dolan & Mickey Croskery (Annsborough), Martin Graham (Ballymena & Dist) and one for the sprinters Ron McKelvey (Newry & District). There will be a small draft of 2011 young birds for auction and a supper provided at half time, entry is £5 and every one will be made welcome. On Saturday 19th March the Doagh & District Breeder/Buyer Sale will take place in McConnell’s Lounge at 1.30pm sharp. Cards only and open to lofts in NIPA Section B & C the 3rd & 5th young bird races will be hot spot races, £100 per Hotspot with the main race the Talbenny young bird National N.I.P.A. In 2010 the Doagh & Dist club paid out £1,300 in breeder buyer prizes, and with many youngsters already promised from top local and mainland UK lofts we hope this year will be even better.
Breeder & Buyer Charity Sale –
This annual Breeder/Buyer Sale will be held in the Banbridge Royal British Legion on Friday 25th March at 8.00pm with half the total proceeds going to the NI Children’s Hospice. Pigeons have been donated from many of the leading lofts in both Northern and Southern Ireland. The race to be used for the event will be the INFC Penzance YB Nat of 2011. 1st will win 50% divided between breeder and buyer, 2nd will win 30% and 3rd 20% based on the same criterion. All birds donated must be penned on night of sale. Some additional information in the event of only two birds timed divide will be 60% and 40%, only one bird timed divide will be 50% and 50%. Should no birds be recorded in race time, total proceeds will be presented to the above charity. Contact details for the sale: T Lennon Tel: 07711 409205, E McAlinden Tel: 07771 813198, D Carson Tel: 07813 265311.
Springvale Gold Ring -
Springvale Social Golden Ring Result - 1st S Rodney & Son 1487 plus £750, 2nd A Gault 1467 plus £150, 3rd G & L Simpson 1435 plus £100. Many thanks to all involved with the Gold Ring Race, all those who supported the event from Rosscarbery and many congratulations to the various winners. We are all looking forward to the 2011 Golden Ring, and rings will be available from the start of the year. Just 100 rings will be sold at £20 each and £1,000 paid out in tree cuts with £750 to the winner. Open to the NIPA Clubs in Sections B & C. Contact Campbell McGrugan, Tel: (028) 93 340981.
JOE & MARK Brown, Lurgan, Northern Ireland. BT66 7BX
Due to such a demand all the early bred youngsters have been sold and the annual sale held in Glenavy each February will not take place. Birds from the 2nd Round will be available during March, 2nd and 3rd week. Bloodlines: Soontjen, Busschaert, FVW, SVR, Darragh, Beattie, Docx, Jacobs, Ken Hine, Van de Rhees etc – Don’t Wait, Order NOW! Tel: Mark or Joe 07709 077266.
Downshire Lofts – E McAlinden & Sons, Banbridge
First Open & First North Section Skibbereen National, First Open & First North Section Penzance Yearling National, Second Open & First North Section Penance Yearling National etc. ON OFFER: 2nd Round Young Birds for Sale. Kit’s of 6 @ £200 - Ready at End of March. For more details call Eddie Tel: 07771813198.
Martin Graham, Ballymena & District – His first two rounds of young birds are for sale, direct from race team and stock birds. This loft scores from all distances, good deals for larger orders. Tel: (028) 256379929. Mobile: 07835 099155.
Training Season -
Many thanks to all who send birds last season in the young birds. This season we will be covering the old bird season as well, will set dates probably in late March/early April. Birds can be left with Danny Dixon (Dunloy) for collection at 8.20am then Ballymoney HPS Clubrooms at 9.00am (Ballybracks Business Park), calling on way back at Rasharkin (Main St), Cullybackey, Ahoghill HPS Clubrooms, and Galgorm/Gracehill (Contact Cowan Balmer at Royal Court) approx 10.15am. Contact me on my Mobile. Tel: 07538 238364. Weather permitting we will be going weekly on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, we update weekly on www.pigeonnetwork.com
Teurling Gold Ring Classic –
Mark Evans of Heart of England Auctions is the man behind the Teurling Gold Ring Classic flown on Monday 29th August 2011. Ronnie Johnston had a call from Mark who said he had phone calls from fanciers in Northern Ireland enquiring how they can get rings. Mark recons this is the best gamble in pigeons a staggering £68,000 was paid out last year, rings were £30 for two both entered as one loft and a maximum of two rings per loft. It is open to all members of the Western and West Midland Regions. The Futurity Sale dates are Monday 28th February, 13th, 21st and 28th March and the final sale on Monday 11th April. John Millar will take the Gold Ring young birds across to Mark Evans in Birmingham before each sale. If any Northern Ireland fancier would like to take part in this exciting race get in touch with Ronnie Johnston, he has the rings now. Last year the winner collected £7,500.