Lanarkshire News - What's everyone's thoughts on next years race programme?
This is the time of year that Clubs are being asked to submit their proposals for next year’s race programme.
Is the present race programme still the best formula for fanciers and our federation?
Clubs & Federation membership is shrinking throughout the country, with costs only going to increase for those who wish to remain in the sport. New avenues of racing, especially after the 200 mile must be reviewed, as most federations are struggling to go it alone. Racing has to evolve making it more enjoyable and attractive to those looking to join the sport or remain. Pigeon racing is a sport that should be enjoyed and working in partnership is the way forward!
So what possible needs to happen?
I believe joint racing with other organisations is essential at federation and National level, this would allow fanciers to compete at the best possible level and reduce the costs for all attending.
Lanarkshire already caters for other clubs and they try to offer other organisations access to the transporter for the longest race on the programme. I believe a more structured programme, involving all the federations in the Central belt of Scotland is essential i.e. Lanarkshire, South Lanarkshire Independent, North West, Almond Valley , Ayrshire, Central , Midlothian federations and the National. Such ventures would create new competition at Combine and National level as at the present time, fanciers have to split their teams to compete at federation and National level.
Each can maintain their own identity but be part of a bigger event!
I would suggest increasing the young bird programme to seven races, which would incorporate a combine race from 200 miles. This would be financially beneficial to the federation and keep racing strong and competitive.
I believe the shorter races should be maintained at the present level, as they generate excellent birdage and revenue.
Others throughout the country and into Europe have been using this formula successfully for decades. In my opinion this would help raise the profile of Scottish racing throughout the pigeon sport.
What is stopping us from trying this for one or two seasons and analysing the results? GPS trackers can show the direction taken by the pigeons on race days.
If we don't change then it’s only going to cost federation too much to go to the distance events and these will be lost to the federation flyer.
Communication would be essential for such events to happen and no one is better or bigger than the other.
So let us all have a look at the options available. Hopefully this can provide a catalyst for change.
This my opinion however, I am sure there are a few out there thinking the same!
Tom Corrie jnr
Lanarkshire Press Officer
