Carlson is an elected town councilor in the Philippines. He started with street pigeon racing at 11 years old. He has 150 pigeons in his loft and participates worldwide in one loft pigeon race.
– You started racing pigeons at the age of 11. Did you have your own loft?
No, we organized pigeon street races. We held a few birds, and everybody brought their pigeons to the market square. The pigeons were then brought around 50 km away. We all returned to our houses, waiting for the pigeons to arrive. Once the pigeon came home, we caught it and ran to the market square as fast as we could. The first one to arrive with his pigeon was the winner of the race. This kind of racing is still popular in the Philippines.
– What was your best result as a pigeon fancier?
Last season I finished 18th in the final race of the Victoria Falls Race. I registered five pigeons, and 4 of them reached the final.
– What are your secrets for successful breeding?
I don’t think there are many secrets. Good breeding starts with a clean and healthy loft. And although I have pigeons from good bloodlines like Jos Thone and Leo Heremans, I prioritize race records. I use the results of the pigeons to pair my breeding couples.
– What do you think about the Dubai One Loft Pigeon Race?
The expectations about the race are high. It seems to be a very competitive race, and the entry fee is very reasonable for such a prestigious race.
– You already have many fanciers who want to participate. What are the reasons for their interest?
We have around 80 teams (320 pigeons) already committed, and more fanciers are interested. The fact that you get 11 events for 200 USD is an element that many fanciers like.
– Any advice for fanciers willing to participate in One Loft Races?
The best advice I can give is that the pigeons you sent should be from excellent breeders and very healthy and robust. Pigeons without a sound immune system have little chance to perform in races where pigeons are collected from all parts of the world.
