THE Wallan Kilmore Homing Club, affiliated with the Victorian Racing Pigeon Union (VRPU), staged another exciting contest on Saturday, September 20, with members sending their best birds to Kyabram for the third race of the season.
A strong north-westerly wind made conditions challenging for the 355 pigeons released, testing both the birds and their trainers. Despite the headwinds, the race produced a thrilling close finish, showcasing the endurance and precision of competitive pigeon racing.
Charlie Grech claimed first place, flying the longest distance of the day and securing victory by just 571 metres. Mark Kavanagh finished second, clocking his bird a mere seven seconds behind Grech — a razor-thin margin given the race’s length. Third place went to the consistent Les Morris, rounding out a competitive top three. The winning bird recorded a top speed of 1116 metres per minute, a strong result under the testing conditions.
Adding to the weekend’s achievements, club member Tony Punzalan represented Wallan Kilmore in the VRPU’s long-distance event from Murray Bridge, South Australia. With only one club member entering, Punzalan faced a tough challenge against 328 competing birds from across the state. His strong performance earned him a commendable 28th placing — an effort warmly congratulated by fellow members.
Club officials said the results highlighted not only the skill and training of local fanciers but also the resilience of the birds in demanding conditions. With more races ahead, members are optimistic about continuing their strong form and are looking forward to upcoming challenges on the racing calendar.
The Wallan-Kilmore Homing Club continues to foster a proud tradition of pigeon racing in the region, combining competition, camaraderie, and a deep appreciation for the sport’s feathered athletes.