pre war race

[PATTY BHOY]

Possibly the greatest race flown to the U.K. pre-war was organised by the Irish Hospital Trust Ltd.  It was open to every fancier in Great Britain and was named  "The Dublin Pigeon Derby".  The outright winner was a Blood Red Cock raced by William (Wull) Howie of Kilwinning Homing Society, and proprietor of the Star Inn, Kilwinning,  there were over 30,000 pigeons in the convoy which were released on 28th May 1937.  Mr Howie named his victor "Red Mac" who returned on a 1286 velocity for the 172 miles journey.

  

 

  

Red Mac won 1st prize of £600 which by far was the largest money prize for a pigeon race to that point in history.  Hugh Kennedy who lived in Kilwinning had a part to play in his licence premises, Hugh attended round the lofts at the rear.  Red Mac was a five year old however Wull was keen on a couple of two year old hens which had been showing early form, Hugh suggested putting the Blood Red in too.  The thinking behind this was with such a huge entry the old boy would have a mind of his own and make of quickly.  The rest is now history.