In the thrilling world of pigeon racing, there are moments that rise above the ordinary, moments that every enthusiast holds close and finds truly inspiring. Such a moment unfolded in the charming town of Westkapelle, where the Verhagen-Buyl partnership achieved an extraordinary feat: winning the prestigious National Agen Yearlings race twice in just two years.
After their victory in 2022, this dedicated duo repeated their success in 2024, taking first place against a staggering field of 5,288 pigeons. With this victory, Verhagen-Buyl has become a true sensation, celebrated worldwide by pigeon fanciers.
The Magic of Westkapelle:
Nestled at the farthest edge of Zeeland and guarded by an impressive seawall, Westkapelle is famed for its iconic lighthouses and stunning scenery.
But for pigeon enthusiasts around the globe, this village has also become synonymous with Verhagen-Buyl, a team that has elevated the sport of pigeon racing to new heights with their passion and dedication. It was here, on that memorable Friday evening at 21:11, that their champion “SUPER AGEN” returned after a heroic 868.565 km journey, touching down at a speed of 1104.86 m/min. This unforgettable moment secured their place in history as one of the most remarkable National Agen victories.
From Great Lines Come Great Champions: The Legend of “SUPER AGEN”
Behind every victory lies a strong foundation, and the “SUPER AGEN” is no exception. This champion is the product of a meticulously crafted breeding line. His father, NL 1236833/21, is a son of the legendary “GOUDKLOMPJE,” a pigeon that achieved 21st place in National Agen and 3rd in National Narbonne. This prestigious cock was moved straight to the breeding loft to pass on his outstanding genes. The mother of “SUPER AGEN,” NL 1721342/19, came from Simon Budding and descends directly from the famed Ko van Dommelen line. With such impressive lineage, “SUPER AGEN” was destined for greatness from the start.
Simple Yet Effective Care: The Secret Behind the Success
While a strong bloodline plays a significant role, Verhagen-Buyl’s meticulous care is crucial to their success. During the racing season, their pigeons receive a balanced diet of NPO mix and Champion mix from Embregts-Theunis in a 1:4 ratio. Occasionally, they are fed individually, and pigeons selected for long-distance races are given extra fatty feed to boost their endurance. Peanuts and small seeds are also part of the regimen, adding the vital nutrients and energy needed for peak performance. By tailoring each feeding program to meet the race demands, Verhagen-Buyl ensures their pigeons are always prepared to excel.
Women Leading the Way: The Dynamic Duo of Dennis and Sandra
A key factor in Verhagen-Buyl’s success is the unique partnership between Dennis and Sandra. Dennis, fascinated by pigeons from the age of five, established his own loft in 1989. When Sandra joined him in 2014, she quickly took charge of the daily care of the pigeons. In 2016, Dennis and Sandra combined their expertise and began racing together, a decision that propelled them to the impressive achievements of recent years. Their partnership, merging Dennis’s experience and strategy with Sandra’s commitment and care, has created an unbeatable team.
Results to Be Proud Of
Verhagen-Buyl’s achievements speak volumes. At National Agen, their team of 25 yearlings and 6 old pigeons delivered outstanding results, including:
· 1st and 10th National Yearlings
· 14th National Old Birds
These results reflect Verhagen-Buyl’s dedication, expertise, and deep passion for pigeon racing. Their accomplishments inspire fanciers worldwide, placing the Netherlands once again on the map as a country with a vibrant and thriving pigeon racing community.
An Inspiration for the Future
Verhagen-Buyl has made Westkapelle proud and has inspired pigeon fanciers around the world to dream big and strive for their own success. Their story is a testament that pigeon racing is more than a hobby; it’s a passion that connects generations, transcends borders, and reminds us that with dedication and love for our pigeons, greatness is within reach.
A heartfelt congratulations to the Verhagen-Buyl team for their exceptional achievement. Let’s share their story with the world and continue to promote the incredible sport of pigeon racing – a sport of endurance, strategy, and above all, an enduring love for the noble racing pigeon.
Until the next blog,
Jan de Wijs
The Real Pigeon Boss
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