In the world of pigeon racing, some live for the results and others for the heritage. The Aerts family from Mol and Turnhout masters both, turning the sport into an art form. With a collection dating back to the 19th century and a racing team storming the national rankings, Tom and Julien prove that passion for the past is the fuel for tomorrow’s victories.
The Man Behind the Museum and the Pioneer of Tomorrow
Tom Aerts is a household name in the international pigeon scene. Since 1997, he has been the driving force behind Tom’s Pigeon Museum (TPM). His daily life involves collecting and historizing antique clocks, rare rings, and unique documents. He even authored a comprehensive book on the history of pigeon racing in Borgerhout (1839-1936).
However, Tom doesn’t just look back. As the official representative for Benzing in Belgium, he is the go-to expert for the most advanced technology. Fanciers can turn to him for information, support, and ordering the industry-leading electronic timing systems. Tom combines historical insight with a vision for the future, knowing exactly what a fancier needs to excel.
A Record of Consistency and Gold
While Tom guards the history and perfects the technology, the Julien & Tom Aerts tandem continues to write their own history at the lofts in Mol. Their focus is unshakeable: the Very Long Distance (+750km).
Take a look at this impressive list of achievements and titles:
1st National Montélimar 2020 against 2,836 yearlings with the wonder bird Snelle Rik.
1st, 2nd, and 4th Provincial Montélimar in 2017.
2nd Provincial Montélimar 2015.
7x General Champion Molse Fondclub on races exceeding 750km.
1st Provincial Le Mans 2005.
2nd Provincial Dax 2001 and 9th National Beziers.
2025 Honorary Prize Winners Molse Fondclub and a bronze medal from Valence.
The Legend of Snelle Rik
The absolute star of the loft is Snelle Rik (B19-6045372). In 2020, this pale cock proved that true class cannot be stopped by a pandemic. Maintaining a speed of 1094.41 m/m over 751 kilometers, he streaked home like a bolt of lightning. His arrival was so spectacular that neither father nor son saw him land; he dived straight into the loft, determined to claim that national victory.
The System: Innovation in Health
The tandem relies on a system based on rest and true craftsmanship. They start the season with a compact team of about 32 widowers on the classic widowhood system.
While they experimented with traditional methods in the past, they now firmly choose modern support from the BENZING Health range. To ensure optimal condition and resistance, they trust BENZING Blue N°1 and, more recently, Molldu Desinfection. These products ensure the racing team arrives at the start in peak form without unnecessary treatments.
By honoring their heritage while choosing the best technology and health products, Tom and Julien Aerts keep the pigeon sport vibrant and prestigious. They understand better than anyone that to reach the highest peaks, you must respect history and embrace the future.
Jan de Wijs
The Pigeon Boss
Questions? Contact Tom...
