In the heart of middle-distance racing, the Western Pigeon Federation soared to new heights in the 1st Tintinara – 480 km race, proudly sponsored by Hunter Premium Produce. With 1,864 birds released across six sections, the competition was fierce, but the West section outclassed all others, producing the highest velocity of the weekend.
Leading the charge was D. Hunter from Deer Park, whose bird clocked a blistering 1609.43 m/min, securing 1st place in the Federation and 1st in the West section, earning \$278.25 in prize money [1]. Notably, Hunter had two birds on the drop, showcasing the depth and strength of his team.
It was a fitting win for David in the Hunter Premium Produce race—though he confirmed he is not related to the sponsor. We extend our thanks to Hunter Premium Produce, a loyal supporter of the Federation and a trusted supplier for many members.
🐣 Squeaker Squadron Shines at Tintinara!
While the main Federation race showcased seasoned flyers, the Squeaker Squadron event celebrated the emerging talent of young birds and junior flyers. With 73 birds entered, the competition was spirited and inspiring.
🏆 Top 3 Squeaker Squadron Results
| Rank | Flyer | Velocity (m/min) | Birds Sent | Ring No | Bird Colour |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hunter, Jackson | 1561.25 | 5 | WPF-23-603 | Griz C |
| 2 | Mifsud, Savannah | 1547.12 | 5 | WPF-23-4537 | B/Bar H |
| 3 | The J Family Loft Junior [Ghori, Joachim] | 1518.68 | 5 | WPFC-24-383 | B/Bar H |
It was a remarkable double victory for the Hunter family. While David Hunter claimed 1st place in the Federation race, his son Jackson Hunter topped the Squeaker Squadron with a commanding performance. Their loft demonstrated excellence across generations, making it a weekend to remember.
The Mifsud family also had a stellar weekend:
- Savannah Mifsud secured 2nd place in the Squeaker Squadron.
- Natalie Mifsud followed closely, finishing 4th overall with a velocity of 1516.63 m/min.
🏆 Top 10 Federation Winners & Section Breakdown
| Rank | Flyer | Section | Velocity (m/min) | Birds Sent | Prize Money |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | D. Hunter | West | 1609.43 | 39 | \$278.25 |
| 2 | Pierre Anastasi | Metro 2 | 1601.63 | 39 | \$197.25 |
| 3 | Vella Family [Renni] | West | 1583.58 | 40 | \$166.95 |
| 4 | Huang & Zheng | Metro 3 | 1581.30 | 40 | \$224.77 |
| 5 | Cachia, Holwell & Cini | Metro 3 | 1577.06 | 40 | \$149.85 |
| 6 | Trevor Webb | North West | 1573.63 | 24 | \$106.20 |
| 7 | S & M Mifsud | West | 1566.58 | 40 | \$111.30 |
| 8 | Ren Inocencio | Metro 1 | 1553.18 | 10 | \$178.20 |
| 9 | Ruel Camigla | South West | 1551.38 | 29 | \$309.00 |
| 10 | Baba’s Loft [R. Ristevski] | Metro 1 | 1549.11 | 15 | \$118.80 |
📍 Federation Winners by Section
- West Section dominated with D. Hunter (1st), Vella Family (3rd), and S & M Mifsud (7th).
- South West Section impressed with Ruel Camigla (9th), Alex Diaz (20th), and David Mallia (21st).
- Metro Section 1 saw Ren Inocencio (8th), Baba’s Loft (10th), and Tenaglia Bros Marc.
- Metro Section 2 was led by Pierre Anastasi (2nd), followed by Cachia Lofts Reno, and partners Ray Russell and Michael W (26th).
- Metro Section 3 was well represented with Huang & Zheng (4th), Cachia, Holwell & Cini (5th), and Michael Portelli (13th).
- North West Section showed its strength with Trevor Webb (6th), proving that no matter where you live in the Federation, if your birds are on form—you can win.
🐦 Pigeon Insight
This week’s race was a showcase of both experience and youthful energy. Pierre Anastasi’s yearling 2024 pigeon finished 2nd Federation with a velocity of 1601.63 m/min—just 1 minute and 26 seconds behind the winning bird. Plus, it’s cup pigeon well done, Pierre, you know how to breed them!
📅 Looking Ahead: Peter O’Sullevan Memorial
Next week’s race is the Peter O’Sullevan Memorial, a special event where the best birds will be entered. Expect elite competition, high stakes, and another thrilling chapter in the Federation’s racing calendar.
💬 Closing Message
As the dust settles on Tintinara, the West winds have spoken. With top performances across all sections and the highest velocity of the weekend, Western Fed members have set the bar. Next week, the Peter O’Sullevan Memorial awaits—will your loft rise to the occasion?
Stay tuned, stay inspired, and keep flying high!