Tomorrow, September 25, 2026, the pigeon racing world stands still. The Marlbank One Loft Race prepares for its ultimate seasonal highlight: The Great Transkaroo Race.
After weeks of demanding preparations and grueling training tosses across the South African Highveld, exactly 502 battle-hardened avian athletes will line up at the start line to compete for ultimate glory and a massive prize pot.
The Ultimate Trial Over the Karoo
The Transkaroo is renowned throughout the pigeon racing community as one of the toughest endurance trials on the planet. Flying at an altitude of 1,500 meters above sea level, combined with a scorching sun and deceptive headwinds, turns this race into a true test of stamina. As the official event slogan boldly declares:
“Legends Aren’t Born, They Fly the Transkaroo.”
Out of the 502 participating pigeons, only those equipped with flawless orientation skills, endless reserves of endurance, and an unyielding willpower stand a chance at claiming victory.
A Dream Prize Pot (in US$)
Beyond achieving eternal fame on the international stage, fanciers of these 502 top-tier pigeons also have substantial financial rewards to fight for. The organization has put together an impressive prize package for the top 10 finishers:
1st Place: $6,718.00 (R 110,000.00)
2nd Place: $4,580.00 (R 75,000.00)
3rd Place: $2,137.00 (R 35,000.00)
4th Place: $1,527.00 (R 25,000.00)
5th Place: $916.00 (R 15,000.00)
6th Place: $305.00 (R 5,000.00)
7th Place: $305.00 (R 5,000.00)
8th Place: $214.00 (R 3,500.00)
9th Place: $153.00 (R 2,500.00)
10th Place: $153.00 (R 2,500.00)
Note: As noted by the organizers, total prize money can still increase leading up to liberation!
Follow the Action Live via Benzing
Marlbank OLR is recognized worldwide for its absolute transparency and commitment to fair play. Thanks to the state-of-the-art Benzing OneLoftRace electronic timing system, every single arrival tomorrow can be tracked live, second-by-second online.
Fanciers from all across the globe will be glued to their screens tomorrow to see which of the 502 contenders traps first. Who will enjoy their coronation day, and who will claim the top prize? Tomorrow, we discover who truly belongs among the legends of the Transkaroo!
Jan de Wijs
The Pigeon Boss
