Can Young Pigeons Conquer the 3x500 km Challenge?
1/26/2025
The 2025 AviRings Derby Pro has launched with an ambitious program comprising nine races, including three exceeding 500 km. These grueling distances present a formidable challenge for young pigeons, particularly as they cannot rely on consistent tailwinds, unlike conditions often experienced in Pattaya.
Can young pigeons manage three such demanding races within a month? The answer is yes—but only under optimal conditions, which depend on three key factors: 1) health, 2) feather condition, and 3) preparation (training and nutrition).
1. Health: The Foundation of Success
Maintaining the health of the pigeons is the cornerstone of success in One Loft Racing (OLR). Sick pigeons are at a much higher risk of getting lost, so rigorous health management is essential. At AviRings, we prioritize health by vaccinating our pigeons three times and implementing a highly effective quarantine protocol. Over the years, this approach has reduced our pigeon loss rate to under 5% during quarantine.
We strive to minimize the use of medications during the racing season, intervening only when absolutely necessary. Instead, we focus on preventative care by providing probiotics throughout the season and incorporating natural health products, such as Giachol Green from our partner Giantel. This proactive approach ensures that our pigeons remain in peak condition for competition.
2. Feather Condition: The Role of the Darkening System
Feather condition is critical for maintaining form and performance during long races. Based on our four years of experience in the AviRings Derby, we are convinced that our darkening system is a game-changer. From March 29 to June 21 each year, we apply the darkening method to control the pigeons’ molting cycle.
As a result, by the time the longest races occur in September and October, the pigeons are typically molting between their 2nd and 5th primary feathers. This timing ensures they retain their full form and strength for the most demanding parts of the season.
3. Preparation: Training and Nutrition
Proper preparation is a twofold process, encompassing both training and nutrition:
Training
Training plays a vital role, especially at the start of the season. Our pigeons are required to fly around the loft for nearly an hour daily, following a strict regimen that participants can observe via our 24/7 live-stream. This "military regime" ensures that all birds develop the stamina and discipline required for racing success.
As the season progresses and pigeons gain experience in races lasting 3-4 hours or more, loft training becomes less critical. By this stage, sufficient rest between races becomes a priority to help the pigeons recover and maintain their condition for subsequent competitions.
Nutrition
Nutrition is especially crucial for longer races. Pigeons need a diet rich in fats, but the food must also be easily digestible to sustain them during 8-10 hours of flight. After experimenting with various feeding concepts, we collaborated with Beyers for the 2024 season.
We use Zoontjens Yellow as a base feed and transition to 7/47 and 7/57 from the Beyers Enzymix program for races over 400 km. This tailored approach ensures the pigeons receive the optimal balance of energy and nutrition for peak performance in longer competitions.
A High-Stakes Challenge
At AviRings Derby Pro, we set the bar high for both pigeons and organizers. Our rigorous preparation and management ensure that only the best pigeons can rise to the occasion and complete the demanding 3x500 km cup challenge. While the program is undoubtedly intense, we are confident that the systems we’ve developed over the years—from health protocols to training and nutrition strategies—will enable our pigeons to excel.
Ultimately, the AviRings Derby Pro promises to be a true test of endurance, skill, and preparation, where only the strongest and most well-prepared pigeons will claim victory.
