Although many people refer to the white homing pigeon as "racing pigeons", not all white ceremonial release pigeons are used for racing.

Racing pigeons were first developed in Belgium and England during the Nineteenth Century.

Racing pigeons are housed together in a specially designed dovecote or loft.

Fantails are often used by pigeon flyers in the training of racing pigeons and Tipplers.

He breeds champion racing pigeons.

He also raced pigeons and trialled sheepdogs.

"I've been racing pigeons for 50 years and I've never heard of anything like this."

Pat Flaherty successfully raced pigeons for over twenty years after he retired from auto racing.

John, 36, a paint salesman, and Michael, 29, a house painter, have been racing pigeons for only two years, but they are lifelong enthusiasts.

"Racing pigeons are little athletes," said Ms. Roberts, the racing union spokeswoman.