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For Immediate Release
Contact: Deone Roberts, Sport Development Mgr.
2002
CHARITY RACE A SUCCESS
The Idaho Racing Pigeon Association's 5th Annual Charity
Race was again a great success. The American Racing Pigeon
Union asked Idaho RPA member, Frank Grover, to share some
details about the event.
Frank
indicated that the club named the Children's Home Society of
Idaho as the recipient of this years benefit race funds. All
money collected went to the Children's Home, which is a
non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the
well-being of children and their families through mental
health services, education and training.
Club
members collected $5 (or more) for sponsorship of birds from
friends and businesses. Each bird was given a special band
for each sponsor. After sponsorship of the race birds was
collected, race day was set for March 30, 2002.
The
following breeders donated birds for the event: Dick Ensley
of Marsing, Idaho; Mike Coleman of Salem, Oregon; Mike
Mourton of Parma, Idaho; M&M Loft in Wilder, Idaho; and
DeBoer Loft in Meridian, Idaho.
Birds
were released for the 125-mile race from Owyhee, Nevada and
flew to the Boise Valley. The club saved money on shipping
by holding the race on the same day as the last Saturday
training toss.
The
charity race committee added the traveling trophy for the
winning handler. Club members contacted Home Depot and were
thrilled to receive a donation of a barbeque grill as a
prize for the sponsor of the winning bird. Doug Terry
Livestock Feed also supplied 30 bags of feed to pass out
among the handlers to encourage participation.
The
American Racing Pigeon Union assisted by developing and
distributing press releases to the local media. As a result,
Frank gave a live interview at one of the local radio
stations.
Following
the race, Douwe and Ellie DeBoer hosted a potluck and awards
presentation at their home. Local members, their friends and
guests were on hand to enjoy a great meal. A representative
from the Children's Home attended and presented the trophy,
while news reporters took photographs.
According
to Frank, not only do the club members have the satisfaction
of benefiting a local charity, but also, "We have a
good time. Sometimes we even gain a member."
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