Pigeon racing, once a proud tradition and passion for thousands, stands at a dangerous crossroads. What was once a close-knit community of dedicated enthusiasts now seems to be struggling with internal division, external threats, and the growing influence of commercial powers. In this blog, I want to take a serious look at the causes of this decline and issue an urgent call to fight together for the preservation of our beloved sport.
The Poison of Negativity
One of the greatest threats to pigeon racing comes from within: the negativity that seeps through the sport like a creeping poison. Too often, we see fanciers tearing each other down rather than building each other up. Criticism, gossip, and backbiting seem to dominate, while the core values of the sport—cooperation, passion, and respect—are eroding.
This is a worrying trend. When the focus shifts from a love of pigeons to personal conflicts or endless disputes, we lose what truly makes this sport unique. Negative talk and thinking create a hostile environment where newcomers feel unwelcome and veterans lose their enthusiasm. If we want pigeon racing to survive, we need to recognize and tackle this destructive mindset.
Commercial Influence: Friend or Foe?
The influence of large commercial parties in pigeon racing has grown explosively in recent years. While some initiatives help modernize the sport, there are also troubling developments. Powerful companies often have one goal: maximizing profits. They infiltrate every aspect of the sport, from feed to auctions, and push traditional values aside.
This commercial interference has made the sport less accessible to the average enthusiast. Pigeons have become unaffordable, championships increasingly revolve around who can invest the most, and smaller fanciers are being sidelined. The question is: do we want a sport where only the elite remain? Or do we fight for an inclusive sport where everyone has a fair chance?
The Rise of Animal Rights Activists
In addition to internal and commercial threats, pigeon racing is increasingly under fire from animal rights organizations. Don’t get me wrong: animal welfare is crucial. Every fancier who cares for their pigeons with love and respect knows that a healthy, happy pigeon is essential for success. But the public image of pigeon racing is often distorted by activists who portray us as exploiters, damaging not only our reputation but also the future of the sport.
It is important for us as a community to proactively show how well we care for our pigeons. Transparency, education, and collaboration with animal welfare organizations can help to break this negative stigma. But to achieve this, we must speak with one voice.
The Path to Recovery
Pigeon racing can only survive if we create change together. Here are some concrete steps:
- Promote Positivity:
Stop the negativity and focus on collaboration. Inspire newcomers, share knowledge, and respect each other. - Ensure Affordability:
Keep the sport accessible to everyone by promoting local, affordable initiatives and resisting commercial monopolization. - Prioritize Animal Welfare:
Demonstrate transparency in how we care for our pigeons and work together to dispel misconceptions. - Unite Fanciers:
Build a community where everyone is welcome, regardless of background, experience, or budget. Together, we are stronger.
Pigeon racing deserves a future, but that future lies in our hands. It’s time to stand up, not to complain or criticize, but to build a better sport where passion, respect, and love for pigeons are at the heart of everything we do. Let’s act now before it’s too late.
Yours In Pigeon Passion,
Jan de Wijs
The Real Pigeon Boss
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