Flight of the Homing Heart: A Journey with Greg, Hastings' Pigeon Racer

On a bright, crystalline morning in early August, I found myself in the company of Greg, a local pigeon trainer from Hastings, Minnesota. The sky stretched out in an endless blue as we headed southeast towards Vasa, a quaint township nestled between Cannon Falls and Red Wing. Our destination, a serene cemetery, seemed an odd choice for a pigeon release, yet it was steeped in personal history and charm.

Greg's stories unfurled like a tapestry as we drove, weaving through the memories of his youth in southern Minnesota. His childhood was marked by the upheaval of a farming cooperative’s rebellion, a migration to Hastings, and the rough-and-tumble life on Vermillion Street. His anecdotes carried the weight of generational shifts, from his father’s struggles to his grandmother's land in Welch, now home to the bustling Welch Ski Village.

Our first stop was at a small creek in Vasa, where Greg and his childhood friends had once swum and fished for trout. It was a brief yet poignant pause before we ascended a small hill to the cemetery. There, amid the solemn quiet, Greg prepared for the release. Four baskets, each housing a dozen pigeons, were carefully positioned on the ground.

With a practiced hand, Greg opened the baskets, and in an explosive burst, the pigeons took flight. The scene was mesmerizing: a swirling, living cloud of birds rising higher until they disappeared into the sunlight, heading home. It was a fleeting moment of beauty, a testament to nature’s innate sense of direction and the bond between man and bird.

On our drive back to Hastings, Greg lit his pipe, and we settled into a conversation about his life’s passion. Below is the transcript of our exchange, rich with history, personal insights, and the timeless allure of pigeon racing.

How did you get started with pigeon racing?

"When I was a kid, I found some baby pigeons in a barn and took them home. They became tame, and I discovered a neighbor who had homing pigeons. He shared his knowledge, and eventually, I got some young homing pigeons myself. That's how it all began."

Can you tell me about the history of pigeon racing?

"Pigeon racing dates back to ancient times, with references to Mesopotamian ruler Hammurabi. Over centuries, selective breeding honed the homing instinct, using pigeons to carry messages during wars and other significant events."

What breeds of pigeons are best suited for racing?

"Homing pigeons, bred through selective breeding by various breeders, are the best. The Vanhee and Janssen Brothers are notable names in developing reliable and fast-flying pigeons."

What does a typical training regimen look like for racing pigeons?

"Training starts with young birds learning the area around their loft. Gradually, they are taken further from home, starting with short distances and eventually extending to 50 miles or more. This helps them build confidence and navigate using familiar landmarks."

How do you train pigeons to return home from long distances?

"Training involves gradually increasing the distances. Over time, pigeons develop their homing skills and confidence, recognizing landmarks like rivers and hills. They can fly races up to 600 miles, relying on their instincts and training."

What kind of diet do racing pigeons require?

"They eat grains like corn, wheat, barley, and sunflower seeds. Some even eat cracked nuts. Good clean grit and water are essential for their digestion and health."

How do you ensure the health and fitness of your pigeons?

"A clean environment, proper diet, and regular health checks are crucial. Medications for respiratory issues and parasite control help maintain their health."

Can you describe the process of preparing pigeons for a race?

"Pigeons wear electronic bands for tracking. They are entered in races, and their times are logged by a data pad at home. The fastest pigeon, calculated in yards per minute, wins the race."

What are some of the biggest challenges you face in pigeon racing?

"Acceptance in the community is a major challenge. Overcrowding and maintaining a healthy loft environment are also critical. Pigeons need good ventilation, space, and sunlight."

What are the criteria for a successful racing pigeon?

"Health, a clean loft, and proper training are essential. The pigeons' instinct and the environment they are raised in play a significant role."

Do you have any memorable stories or achievements from your time in pigeon racing?

"I once raised an orphan pigeon that became tame and followed me around. It was a unique bond, but I generally avoid naming my pigeons due to the risks from predators like hawks."

What do you enjoy most about training and racing pigeons?

"I enjoy the variety of colors in pigeons and seeing them return safely from races. It's a simple pleasure."

How do you see the future of pigeon racing?

"The sport is declining due to restrictive ordinances and fewer new members. The older generation with rich experiences in pigeon racing is disappearing, and fewer young people are joining."

What advice would you give to someone interested in starting pigeon racing?

"Ensure you have the space and time to care for pigeons properly. It's important to have a clean, well-ventilated loft and support from others when you're away."

Are there any resources or organizations you recommend for new pigeon trainers?

"Joining a local club through the American Racing Pigeon Union (AU) is the best resource. They offer guidance and support for newcomers."

Can you walk us through the process of releasing the pigeons and what we should expect?

"Pigeons are released only when they are ready, with no injuries and proper training. Observing their flight and ensuring they are healthy are crucial steps before any release."

What if you find a banded pigeon?

"Use the band number to identify the club or organization through their websites. This can help trace the owner and return the pigeon."

As we drove back to Hastings, the sun began its descent, casting long shadows over the fields. Greg’s pigeons were already halfway home, their journey a testament to the enduring spirit of a tradition that, while facing challenges, remains a deeply cherished part of his life.