JIM EMERTON CHATS TO KAREN MCGUIRE
1. Karen, please tell us all about you.
I am a mum of two boys aged 5&3. That takes up a whole lot of my time. My career has been based in Optics as a dispensing optician, which I’m taking a break from at the moment to look after my boys.
2. What is the genesis for your interest in racing pigeons?
In short, my dad (James McGuire). My dad started racing pigeons a while ago now, he had a short spell in hospital, which meant I had to look after his birds. I learned a lot and got involved in all aspects of care and training. It’s something I’ve just continued to do, always learning and annoying him with loads of questions.
3. Are you a fan of nature?
I’ve always been interested in animals. My dad and I would watch lots of nature programmes when I was young and trips to the zoo were always my favourite. I do like nature but I’m a bit of a fair weather nature lover.
4. Who inspires you in the sport?
Obviously my dad (James McGuire), he doesn’t take the sport too seriously or get wrapped up too much in the politics. It’s more a hobby and if he wins it’s a bonus. He just loves his birds and will sit in his back garden all day, he enjoys seeing his birds happy and healthy.
I’m starting to meet people within the sport now so I’m sure I will be inspired by more people that I meet.
5. What are your objectives and dreams in pigeons?
This will be my first year racing, my dad has let me build my own loft in his back garden, my objective this year….returns. I’m not fussed about placing but a wee win would put a huge smile on my face. Maybe I’ll get lucky lol.
6. What is the origin of your birds?
I have some Delbars at the moment. And a couple of fanciers are very kindly gifting me some young birds from their lofts to start a wee team.
7. What system will you use that is personal to you?
I’ll be racing natural. My dad and I have a fair amount of time and I enjoy training. As this is my first year too I think it’s easier to understand.
8. Do you have a mentor in the sport?
Walter Boswell lives close and is a good friend of my dad’s. So between James McGuire and Walter Boswell I’ve got some good advice.
9. Will you read my books?
I have your book! I haven’t had a chance to read it yet but It’s next on the list, just need a babysitter lol.
10. Are you in some clubs?
No not yet. My dad races in the Burnbank club and my loft is in his garden so I’ll be racing under him.
11. What skills can a lady bring to the welfare of the birds?
Organisation!! Also, a woman’s clean is a different kind of clean
12. Do you like the social side of the pigeon culture?
I loved the dances/prize giving at the end of the year but covid put a stop to that. It was always nice to see everyone done up and applauding for each other.
13. How do you wish to be regarded in the game?
I’m not fussed about how I’m seen to be honest. I just want to have an enjoyable time, have some laughs with my dad and see my birds come home.
14. Any more comments please on any aspects of pigeons?
Racing pigeons is all about enjoyment for me. If I win it will be a great wee bonus but I’m not chasing that. I’ve still a lot, lot more to learn and there are so many different ways to do things, I’m looking forward to seeing what the year will bring.
