Barcelona 2017 will forever be remembered as a grueling yet legendary race in the history of pigeon racing. Under extreme conditions, Leon Roks from Standdaarbuiten and his iconic pigeon, Don Leo, proved that true champions rise above adversity. With an incredible speed of 882 meters per minute, Don Leo secured his place not only in the record books but also in the hearts of pigeon enthusiasts worldwide. This is their inspiring story.
The Challenging Conditions of Barcelona 2017
The weather during the Barcelona race of 2017 was nothing short of brutal. Temperatures soared well above 30 degrees Celsius, as meteorological maps turned deep red across France. With the sun blazing and barely a cloud in sight, the pigeons faced an almost insurmountable challenge.
Expectations were initially optimistic, as forecasters predicted a relatively smooth race despite the heat. However, the reality was far harsher. The first report of a pigeon’s arrival came late in the morning of July 8 from northeastern France, setting the tone for one of the slowest and most difficult Barcelona races since 1989. Against this backdrop of adversity, Leon Roks and Don Leo emerged as unparalleled victors
The Triumph of Don Leo (NL.10-3025405)
At precisely 12:58 p.m., Leon’s clock recorded the arrival of his seven-year-old cock, Don Leo. After covering an astonishing 1,188 kilometers, the pigeon achieved a speed of 882 meters per minute, leaving competitors in awe. Remarkably, Belgium – with nearly 8,000 pigeons entered in the race – had yet to report a single arrival at that time.
The moment of realization was overwhelming for Leon. Initially, he thought the arriving pigeon was from another race. When he recognized it as his Barcelona entrant, he exclaimed, “I’m losing my mind – this can’t be real!” That disbelief soon turned into pure joy as he realized his pigeon had achieved something extraordinary: the first international prize in one of the toughest editions of Barcelona ever.
NL.10-3025405 "Don Leo": A Pigeon of Unmatched Class
Don Leo wasn’t just any pigeon; he was bred for greatness. His name honors his breeder, Leo Kouters, who provided Leon with the egg that hatched this extraordinary bird in 2010. Both parents of Don Leo carried a legacy of success, with his father having previously placed in the Barcelona race as well.
Leading up to the 2017 victory, Don Leo had already built an impressive track record, including a 1st NPO Dax and a 13th national Dax in 2014. For the Barcelona race, he was sent to the nest on 10-day-old chicks, a strategy that clearly motivated him to deliver his best performance yet.
Leon Roks: A Master in the Sport
Leon Roks, a dedicated baker and deliveryman, has mastered the art of pigeon racing. His loft, originally built by Cees Luykx – the national Barcelona winner of 2010 – provides an ideal environment for breeding and training champion pigeons.
Leon’s success is rooted in precision, passion, and a tireless commitment to his birds. His meticulous preparation for Barcelona 2017, from diet to training schedules, exemplified his expertise. Surrounded by a supportive network of friends and family, Leon demonstrated that excellence in pigeon racing is a collaborative effort.
The Legacy of Barcelona 2017
Leon Roks and Don Leo’s victory is more than just a milestone; it’s a testament to the resilience and determination that define the sport of pigeon racing. The Barcelona race, known for its grueling distance and unpredictable challenges, remains the ultimate test for both pigeons and their fanciers.
Their story serves as an enduring inspiration for enthusiasts worldwide. It highlights the importance of preparation, dedication, and the special bond between fancier and bird.
A Legend That Lives On
Looking back on Barcelona 2017, one thing is clear: Leon Roks and Don Leo have earned their place among the legends of pigeon racing. Their extraordinary achievement continues to inspire those who dream of triumphing in this ultimate race. As Leon’s journey shows, with hard work and a touch of magic, greatness is always within reach. 🕊️
Are you ready to take inspiration from Leon Roks and achieve your own success in pigeon racing? Let their story motivate you to aim high and chase your dreams!
Yours in Pigeon Passion,
Jan de Wijs
The Real Pigeon Boss
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