WINNER’S CIRCLE

By Deone Roberts, AU Sport Development

Literally, it was a day at the races in Shakopee, Minnesota when the Heartland Federation members took their places in the center of Canterbury Park Race Track to release homing pigeons, kicking off the exciting race day. But now we’ll go you one better! How about having a race named after you and listed in the program? - and along with that, an ad for the organization on the same page? - No charge! Do you like the way that sounds? There’s more! Taking your place in the winner’s circle – now that tops off the day.

That is exactly what happened for the Heartland Federation, through the coordination efforts of Eric Olson. The federation (2008 AU National Convention sponsors) made a weekend of it, hosting an AU Zone Meeting, a seminar with Ed Minvielle and promotion activities at the race track.

The weekend began with Ed’s seminar. After lunch, incumbent AU President, Frank Greenhall, incoming President, Steve Lawler and Executive Director, Karen Clifton, provided updates on AU progress and projects.

At the track, Eric made arrangements to have the AU display set up at the entry way where AU members were on hand to greet guests and share information about the sport. Birds were released and the racing commenced.

The American Racing Pigeon Union Run was the second race of the day. Gopher This One, race winner, took his place in the winner’s circle. In the circle with him were Eric Olson, Ed Minvielle, Steve Lawler and federation member Jerry Vernon. What a way to highlight the day!

That won’t be the end of that story. Discussion has already begun for a repeat annually. Thanks to the hard work of Eric, Jerry, Gary Hegner and Todd Bjerke, the event was successful. Steve Lawler and Ed Minvielle didn’t get off that easy. They pitched in and did a lot of work to contribute to a very positive weekend for the hobby.

Even if there is not a racetrack near you, there are many ways to entertain and promote. This is one example of a successful step out into promotion to improve community support and maybe even gain a member or two. Call the AU office to receive materials and begin planning.