American Racing Pigeon Union

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."