Georges Herman-Van-Dist has had an outstanding 2024 season, claiming two major victories in the Nord–Pas-de-Calais region and earning the title of NPC champion. His continued success highlights his loft’s exceptional performance, further solidifying his reputation in the world of pigeon racing.
Triumphs at Ruffec and Mont-de-Marsan
The 2024 season proved exceptional for Georges Herman-Van-Dist, who continued his winning streak in races across the Nord-Pas-de-Calais region. With two notable victories, Georges once again demonstrated that his pigeons stand out for their performances, regardless of weather conditions. These two victories, particularly at Ruffec and Mont-de-Marsan, highlight two well-known pigeon families among Pigeon-Master enthusiasts.
Excellence of the Herman-Van-Dist Loft
For decades, Georges has been selecting remarkable pigeons, distinguished by their robustness and exceptional sense of orientation. These qualities enable them to fly at high speeds, whether with or against the wind, all while maintaining impressive accuracy.
On June 15, 2024, during a race held at Ruffec, the pigeons from the 1st Pigeon Racing Region were released at 7:05 a.m., with a southwest wind. Georges’ pigeon FR23-21027 was clocked in at Halluin, after covering 570 km at an impressive speed of 104.897 km/h. This champion comes from a remarkable lineage, with his father from the loft of Kriss Slosse and his mother also being the dam of the Nîmes champion, sold on Pigeon-Master.
Mont-de-Marsan: A Victory in Extreme Conditions
On July 26, 2024, in the challenging Mont-de-Marsan race organized by the Calc, Georges’ pigeon FR23-21089 secured another remarkable victory. This pigeon covered 811 km in harsh weather conditions and was clocked in at 2:33 p.m. Bred from a female by Nicolas Casail, a renowned breeder from the Lille group, and descended from a prestigious line of Jean-Marie Vandersippe, this pigeon once again proved the great tenacity of the Herman-Van-Dist pigeons.
A Career Marked by Success
At over 70 years old, Georges Herman-Van-Dist is a key figure in French pigeon racing. A native of Halluin, this enthusiast has been crowned French champion three times. As the son of a pigeon fancier, he began racing in 1967 alongside his father, Claude. Together, they won numerous competitions, and today, Georges continues to shine in championships, particularly in races ranging from 400 to 700 km.
A Proven Racing Method
To achieve such results, Georges uses the classic widowhood method. The male and female pigeons are kept in separate lofts, and only the males are raced. Upon their return, they are reunited with their females, which motivates them to deliver exceptional performances. This system, combined with strict hygiene and a balanced diet, keeps Georges’ pigeons in top condition all year round.
Nutrition and Hygiene: The Keys to Success
Nutrition is a crucial aspect of Georges’ method. After a race, the pigeons receive a rich mix to recover, followed by a cleansing mix before being fed the special Casaert mix three days before basketing. Georges also ensures impeccable hygiene in his lofts, which are cleaned twice a day to guarantee the health of his pigeons.
A Legend in Pigeon Racing
Georges Herman-Van-Dist is undoubtedly an iconic figure in pigeon racing. His rigor, passion, and dedication to his pigeons have shaped his success, making him a respected and admired champion. His remarkable performances over the years are the result of hard work, rigorous selection, and an unwavering love for his feathered athletes.
Titles Won in 2024 (NPC)
- 1st Ace-pigeon Y Alc-Calc Eastern Zone (6 prizes)
- 3rd and 4th Ace-pigeon NPC (7 prizes)
- 9th Ace-pigeon Y NPC
- 1st General Champion NPC 2024
- 2nd VX NPC Championship, Federal Races
- 4th Y NPC Championship, Federal Races
- 1st Champion Alc-Calc Eastern Zone
In Lille:
- Champion Old Federal Races VX
- 2nd Y Federal Race Championship
- 2nd and 3rd Ace-pigeons Federal Races VX
- 4th and 6th Ace-pigeons Federal Races VX
- 4th Ace-pigeons Federal Races J
