Pigeon Racing in India is a popular sport, especially in states like Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Andhra Pradesh. The process of conducting pigeon races in India generally involves the following processes:
Pigeon Training: Pigeon fanciers, also known as pigeon enthusiasts or breeders, begin by training their pigeons. Young pigeons are taught to fly back to their loft (the place where they are housed) from progressively longer distances.
Loft Management: The pigeons are kept in lofts, which are specially designed structures that serve as their home. The loft is equipped with perches, nests, and feeders. Pigeon breeders take good care of their birds, providing them with proper nutrition, regular exercise, and a healthy environment to ensure they are in good condition for racing.
Registration: Pigeon racers must register their pigeons with local pigeon racing clubs or federations to participate in official races. These clubs often have set schedules for races.
Race Organization: The racing clubs organize pigeon races on predetermined dates. The races usually take place early in the morning to avoid extreme heat and ensure the safety of the birds.
Release Point and Distance: On the day of the race, the pigeons are transported to a predetermined release point, often located in a different city or district. The distance between the release point and the pigeons' lofts can vary, with longer races spanning several hundred kilometers.
Timing and Scoring: Each participating pigeon is equipped with a special band or chip that records its time of arrival at the loft. These bands or chips are checked when the pigeons return from the race. The pigeon that completes the race in the shortest time is declared the winner.
Prize Distribution: The winners of the pigeon races are awarded prizes, which can range from trophies to cash rewards. Pigeon racing is not only a hobby for many but also a competitive sport with significant stakes in some cases.