Top Auction – Gebr. de Zwart – The Netherlands

Gebr. de Zwart – Passion and Experience in Marathon Pigeon Racing

Marathon racing is a test of patience, endurance and confidence in pigeons prepared to tackle long distances. For Dick and Wietze de Zwart, the pigeon-fancying brothers from Delft, the Netherlands, this challenge reflects a passion nurtured over the years through dedicated work in the loft and participation in ZLU races.

A milestone in the record of the Gebr. de Zwart loft is the victory at Narbonne ZLU: 1st in Afdeling 12 against 267 p, achieved by the cock NL 07-1705583, bred from an Ernest × Wijnands cross.

This performance came in a demanding race, with adverse weather in Belgium and the Netherlands making the pigeons’ return more difficult. Over a distance of 989.452 km, the cock returned at an average speed of 880.422 m/min, also taking 14th position on the ZLU arrival notification list.

First nominated and first home to the loft, he justified the de Zwart brothers’ confidence. The same pattern had already occurred at Bordeaux, where he was also the first nominated pigeon and the first to return to Delft — two races that highlight his consistency over long distances.

Behind these results lies the experience of two fanciers devoted to long-distance and marathon racing. Their participation in ZLU races over the years, their use of the total widowhood system and their close observation of each pigeon reflect an approach in which preparation, selection and daily care naturally complement one another.

The Gebr. de Zwart auction presents enthusiasts with pigeons from this Dutch loft, offering an opportunity to explore their bloodlines and identify birds suited to their own breeding goals for long-distance and marathon racing.