Barleycove Beach Open: A Feathered Fiesta
Ladies and Gentlemen, welcome to the latest debrief of the sixth race of the ISRF racing season, the Barleycove Beach Open! With 4777 birds taking to the skies from 239 members, this race was a spectacle of skill, speed, and sheer pigeon power.
On a fine day with not a drop of rain in sight and a cheeky southeast wind giving our feathered friends a gentle nudge, the stage was set for an exhilarating race. The average distance covered was 196 miles and 849 yards, making it a true test of endurance and strategy.
Top Flier: Harry McCann
The top spot was claimed by none other than the legendary Harry McCann of Ballymun RPC. With a winning velocity of 1494.380 yards per minute (ypm), Harry's pigeon, GB-23-D-065811, a one-year-old blue treasure, soared to victory. This talented young bird, a "T" in the loft and a titan in the air, covered 198 miles and 134 yards in a breathtaking 3 hours, 53 minutes, and 17 seconds.
Harry, known for his meticulous training and keen eye for talent, has been a stalwart of the Ballymun RPC. His success is no surprise to those who know him, as Harry combines traditional pigeon wisdom with innovative strategies. This win adds another feather to his already impressive cap, making Ballymun RPC proud.
The Challengers: Close but No Cigar
Trailing closely behind was S. O'Driscoll of Donnycarney, with his hen, IHU-23-S-053614, clocking in at 1491.299 ypm. This one-year-old blue beauty showed remarkable stamina over 200 miles and 195 yards, proving that the competition was fierce.
Liam Donnelly & Son from Finglas RPC took the third spot with their chequered cock, GB-23-A-058970, who flew 196 miles and 1130 yards at a velocity of 1489.841 ypm. Their performance showcases the strength of Finglas RPC in nurturing young talent.
A Nod to the Longest and Shortest
Special mentions go to Steven Fitzgerald from Trim RPC, who had the longest flight of the day. His bird, covering 203 miles and 550 yards, finished with a respectable velocity of 1339.954 ypm, securing the 293rd position. On the other end, Mr. John Callan from North Kildare flew the shortest distance of 180 miles and 1686 yards, placing 251st with a velocity of 1404.050 ypm. It’s a reminder that pigeon racing isn’t just about distance but also about strategy and speed.
The Top 10 Finishers
Harry McCann - Ballymun RPC - 1494.380 ypm
S. O'Driscoll - Donnycarney - 1491.299 ypm
Liam Donnelly & Son - Finglas RPC - 1489.841 ypm
Boothman & Son Jr - Blanchardstown - 1488.640 ypm
S. O'Driscoll - Donnycarney - 1486.996 ypm
Lee Duffy - Blanchardstown - 1483.757 ypm
Tommy & Jonathan Doyle - Celtic Invitation - 1479.405 ypm
S. O'Driscoll - Donnycarney - 1478.672 ypm
Gerry O Mara Family - Kildonagh - 1478.645 ypm
Gerry O Mara Family - Kildonagh - 1477.927 ypm
Wrapping Up the Race
As we close the chapter on this thrilling race, it’s clear that the Barleycove Open was a display of sheer brilliance from both the birds and their fanciers. With a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars, the competition was as tough as an old bird’s beak.
Stay tuned for more results and remember, in pigeon racing, it’s not just about the flight, but the heart and strategy behind each wing. May the skies be clear and your returns swift.
Sam Wingate
Racing Journalist, pigeonlink.com
Email: sam.wingate@pigeonlink.com