Young Bird Races in September
- First races at 100–200 km for spring youngsters
- Priority on orientation and return, not on velocity
- Youngsters that return in the first 30% after the first race are valuable
- Do not drop from the team after a single poor race — youngsters need 3–4 races to calibrate
Adults in September
- Moult is complete — birds are in new plumage
- A few readaptation training sessions: 50–100 km
- Some clubs organise autumn adult races in September
- Well-conditioned adults can participate — but do not force it
Warning: Unpredictable September weather can catch inexperienced birds out. Fog, sudden rain and autumn storms cause losses in youngsters. Watch the forecast.
Health in September
- Full preventive treatment after the first group races
- Ornithosis (Chlamydia) — increased risk on return from baskets with many pigeons
- Individual check of birds returning from races in poor condition
Feeding in September
- Return to race formula for adults
- Active youngsters — increased energy, moderate protein
- Iron supplement and vitamins after tiring races
In brief: From youngster performance in September you can already estimate which will be stars in the spring season. Those making the top 20% in the first 2–3 races are your candidates.
Youngster Evaluation
- Compare absolute placings (position X out of Y pigeons)
- Compare velocities against the club average
- Note behaviour on return: straight to the loft or "tourist"?
Concrete Action Steps
- Participate in at least 3–4 youngster races with your team
- Post-race treatment after every 2 races
- Update the performance register for each youngster
- Final youngster selection: which stay for breeding, which for racing