Introduction

The world of pigeons is as diverse and colorful as the birds themselves. For over 35 years, this world has been my home, my passion, and my life’s work. It all began with racing pigeons – those swift, homing birds that captured my imagination as a young boy and led me on a thrilling journey across decades. From the tender age of 12, I was not just a spectator but an active participant in the dynamic, competitive, and often unpredictable world of pigeon racing. This journey saw me evolve from a young enthusiast into a professional, running a full-time racing pigeon brokering and sales business, a venture that not only tested my skills but also deepened my bond with these remarkable birds.

As the years passed, my connection with pigeons became more profound. They were not just birds to me; they were a source of inspiration, a means of connecting with a community of like-minded individuals, and a way to keep the tradition of pigeon racing alive and vibrant. In 2019, I returned to the pigeon racing community with a renewed vision. This was not just a comeback; it was a mission to reshape the future of pigeon racing. My aim was to transform RacingPigeonInternational.com and PigeonWorld.net into global resources for pigeon enthusiasts. The goal was ambitious but clear – to create a network that would not only connect pigeon racers worldwide but also serve as a beacon for the next generation of pigeon enthusiasts.

Yet, in the midst of this seasoned journey with racing pigeons, a new chapter was waiting to be written. In 2023, my path took an unexpected turn towards the mesmerizing world of roller pigeons. This wasn’t just a change in the breed of birds I worked with; it was a shift in perspective, a new way to experience the pigeon world. Roller pigeons, with their unique aerial acrobatics and vibrant plumage, presented a fresh set of challenges and delights. 

Background in Racing Pigeons

My journey with racing pigeons began in the innocence of childhood, at the age of 12. Those early days were filled with awe and wonder, as I watched these graceful creatures take to the skies, only to find their way back home with unerring precision. This fascination soon turned into an all-consuming passion, shaping my teenage years and laying the foundation for my future. By the time I was 17, my hobby had transformed into a full-scale operation. I was no longer just a young enthusiast; I had become a pivotal figure in the world of racing pigeons, managing a thriving brokering and sales business. This venture was not just about trading birds; it was about nurturing talent, understanding genetics, and appreciating the subtle art of pigeon racing.

Over the years, my involvement in the pigeon racing community deepened. It wasn’t merely a sport or a business to me; it became a way of life. The intricacies of breeding, the nuances of training, and the thrill of competition were parts of my everyday existence. I reveled in the challenges and celebrated the victories, big and small. Each bird I bred, each race I participated in, added to my repository of knowledge and experience, allowing me to appreciate the sport’s depth and complexity.

After a brief hiatus, I returned to the sport in 2019 with fresh eyes and a renewed spirit. My vision was clear – to reignite the passion for pigeon racing on a global scale. I wanted to create something that would not only serve as a resource for current enthusiasts but also inspire future generations. RacingPigeonInternational.com and PigeonWorld.net were born out of this vision. These platforms were designed to be more than just websites; they were envisioned as global hubs, connecting pigeon racers from all corners of the world, sharing knowledge, experiences, and fostering a sense of community.

As my work with racing pigeons continued, I saw a reflection of my own passion in my son, Zandie. At 19, he too had been bitten by the pigeon racing bug. Watching him develop his skills and carve his niche in channel racing filled me with pride. It was a reminder of my own journey and the timeless allure of pigeon racing that could captivate generation after generation.

This long-standing relationship with racing pigeons set the stage for my transition to roller pigeons. It was a foundation built on decades of learning, experiences, and a deep-rooted love for these birds. As I ventured into the world of roller pigeons, I carried with me not just the skills and knowledge from years of racing but also an open heart ready to embrace a new chapter in my pigeon journey.

The Transition to Roller Pigeons

The shift from racing pigeons to roller pigeons was a gradual yet profound evolution in my pigeon journey. My introduction to rollers came unexpectedly about four years ago, when I was gifted a pair by Eric Pickersgill, a man renowned for his expertise with miller pigeons. This pair of roller pigeons was not just a gift; it was a new window into the diverse world of pigeon keeping. At first, they were a curiosity, a side interest alongside my racing pigeons. However, their unique behavior and striking aerial acrobatics slowly captivated me, planting the seeds of a new passion.

In late 2022, this budding interest blossomed into a full-fledged pursuit. I began to immerse myself in the roller pigeon community, seeking knowledge and connections. I turned to Facebook groups and online forums, diving into discussions, and absorbing information from seasoned roller pigeon enthusiasts. This online exploration was complemented by face-to-face meetings with some of the most respected roller pigeon flyers in the UK. Figures like Les Bezance and George Mason, who were not just skilled in their craft but also generous with their knowledge, played a crucial role in my transition. Their guidance and insights were invaluable as I navigated this new territory.

Living just 20 minutes away from George Mason proved to be fortuitous. Our numerous meetings were more than just educational; they were inspirational, providing me with a deeper understanding of the nuances of roller pigeon keeping. These interactions were instrumental in shaping my approach and philosophy towards roller pigeons.

My initial enthusiasm for collecting roller pigeons saw me amassing a significant number of birds. However, as I grew more knowledgeable and discerning, I refined my collection to 20 carefully selected pairs. This was not just a reduction in numbers but a strategic choice to focus on quality over quantity. I chose 10 pairs from Les Bezance and 10 pairs from George Mason, ensuring that each bird was a direct descendant or bred from direct lines of these renowned flyers. This careful curation was a testament to my commitment to excellence in the roller pigeon sport.

Parallel to my growing interest in roller pigeons, my involvement with racing pigeons remained steadfast. I continued to build my stock team, specializing in one-loft races. This dual engagement in both racing and roller pigeons offered a unique perspective, allowing me to appreciate the distinct characteristics and challenges of each breed.

The transition was not just about acquiring new birds; it was about embracing a new community, learning new skills, and expanding my horizons within the pigeon world. Roller pigeons, with their distinct characteristics and requirements, presented a fresh set of challenges and learning opportunities. This journey into roller pigeons was not just a hobby; it was a continuation of my lifelong passion for pigeons, now taking a new and exciting direction.

Learning from the Best

Embarking on my journey into the world of roller pigeons, I quickly realized the importance of learning from experienced flyers. My encounters with two of the UK’s most renowned roller pigeon enthusiasts, Les Bezance and George Mason, proved to be pivotal in my understanding and appreciation of this unique sport.

Les Bezance – a name synonymous with excellence in roller pigeons – was one of the first experts I had the privilege of meeting. His reputation preceded him, known for breeding and flying some of the most exceptional rollers in the country. Observing his birds, I was struck by their precision and grace in the air, a testament to his skill in selecting and training them. My interactions with Les were enlightening. He shared insights into breeding techniques, bird health, and the subtleties of training rollers to achieve their best performances. His advice was not just technical; it encompassed a philosophy of patience, observation, and respect for the birds. Learning from Les was not merely about acquiring knowledge; it was about understanding the soul of roller pigeon flying.

George Mason, another luminary in the roller pigeon community, became not just a mentor but also a friend. Living in close proximity to George, I had numerous opportunities to spend time with him, each meeting more enlightening than the last. George’s approach to roller pigeons was both scientific and artistic. He understood the birds at a granular level – their dietary needs, behavioral patterns, and genetic strengths. Yet, he also appreciated the aesthetics of rollers, their colors, and the beauty of their flight. His guidance on feeding and care was invaluable, especially as I learned that roller pigeons, despite their seemingly voracious appetite, required a carefully balanced diet to perform at their best. George’s teachings extended beyond the technical aspects; he imparted lessons on the importance of patience, observation, and creating a bond with the pigeons, which he believed was key to bringing out their best potential.

Learning from Les Bezance and George Mason was not just an education in roller pigeon keeping; it was an immersion into a community that valued knowledge sharing, camaraderie, and a deep respect for these magnificent birds. Their willingness to share their vast experience and wisdom with a newcomer like me was a testament to the inclusive and supportive nature of the roller pigeon community. This contrasted starkly with my previous experiences in the racing pigeon world, where such open sharing of knowledge was often harder to come by.

This journey of learning from the best in the field was a humbling and enriching experience. It taught me that mastering roller pigeons was not just about technical know-how; it was about cultivating a deep understanding and connection with the birds. These lessons from Les and George were instrumental in shaping my approach to roller pigeon keeping and remain a guiding force as I continue to explore this fascinating sport.

Advice for Newcomers to Roller Pigeons

As someone relatively new to the roller pigeon sport yet seasoned in the world of pigeon racing, I have gleaned several key insights that I believe are crucial for newcomers to the roller pigeon community. These insights encompass genetics, feed, and management, each playing a vital role in the success and enjoyment of this hobby.

Genetics: The Cornerstone of Success

The foundation of a successful roller pigeon venture lies in the genetics of your birds. This can’t be emphasized enough. It’s essential to start with high-quality stock, as this sets the stage for everything that follows. My advice is to spend time observing birds from established flyers. Watch how their pigeons perform in the air, noting their rolling style, frequency, and coordination. I started my journey with birds from Les Bezance and George Mason, ensuring that I had the best possible genetic foundation. Remember, good genetics gives you a head start, but it’s just the beginning.

Feed: Balancing Nutrition and Performance

Feeding roller pigeons is both an art and a science. Unlike racing pigeons, rollers have unique dietary requirements that significantly impact their performance in the air. Initially, I was surprised to find how eagerly my rollers fed, almost as if they were perpetually hungry. However, it’s crucial to balance their diet carefully. The right feed not only keeps them healthy but also influences their agility and rolling ability. I’ve been fortunate to learn from George Mason about the intricacies of feeding rollers. His approach combines nutritional balance with performance enhancement, a strategy I’ve adopted. For newcomers, I recommend seeking advice from experienced breeders and being attentive to how changes in diet affect your birds’ performance.

Management: Routine and Discipline

Management is the third pillar of success in roller pigeon keeping. A structured routine is key. This includes regular feeding times, consistent training schedules, and attentive care. Roller pigeons thrive on routine and predictability. Their training, especially, requires a disciplined approach, gradually building their skills and confidence. The transition from training to actual performance is a delicate process, requiring patience and persistence. Just as with racing pigeons, the management of your roller stock demands attention to detail and a deep understanding of your birds’ needs and behaviors.

Community Engagement: Learning and Sharing

Lastly, engage with the roller pigeon community. Attend local club meetings, participate in online forums, and connect with experienced flyers. The roller pigeon world is rich with shared knowledge and camaraderie. In my journey, the wisdom imparted by Les Bezance and George Mason was invaluable. Similarly, your growth in this hobby will be greatly enhanced by the collective wisdom of the community. Share your experiences, ask questions, and be open to learning. Remember, every interaction is an opportunity to deepen your understanding of these remarkable birds.

Building a Community: RollerPigeonWorld.com and PigeonWorldPodcast.com

When I first delved into the world of roller pigeons, one of the challenges I encountered was the scarcity of dedicated online resources for enthusiasts. While the racing pigeon community had a wealth of information available, the same was not true for roller pigeons. Recognizing this gap, I was inspired to create platforms that would not only serve as informational resources but also foster a sense of community and connection among roller pigeon enthusiasts worldwide.