Bogdan Ciobanu – The Art of Marathon Pigeon Breeding, Cultivated in Suceava
Rigor, performance, and tradition define the activity of Bogdan Ciobanu, a pigeon fancier from Siminicea, Suceava County, located in northern Moldova – a region with a long and strong pigeon racing tradition. Through an approach based on strict selection, endurance, and carefully planned breeding, Bogdan Ciobanu has built over time one of the most respected and high-performing marathon pigeon lines in Romania, establishing his reputation through proven results, not through theory or notoriety.
His achievements in competitions reflect a professional and consistent vision. Over the years, the breeder from Siminicea has achieved multiple Top 10 National rankings in the Marathon and Long-Distance categories, won 1st place in Suceava County in races ranging from 800 to 1000 km, and recorded remarkable results in challenging international races held in Ukraine and Poland (for example, Krasnodon). His constant participation in the Burdujeni–Suceava Championship, one of the most competitive areas in the country, confirms the consistency and value of his flying line.
For Bogdan Ciobanu, genetic selection is the foundation of performance. In his view, the true value of a pigeon is measured by results, not by famous pedigrees. Thus, his loft is composed exclusively of specimens from lines with documented performance:
Jellema × Jellema – for extreme endurance and stability;
Arjan Beens – for excellent orientation in long-distance races;
Ko van Dommelen – for physical resilience and adaptation to tough races;
and MG 430 – an example of controlled inbreeding designed to preserve dominant traits within the line.
Bogdan Ciobanu’s working method is characterized by discipline and zero compromise. No pigeon is admitted to breeding without at least two classifications in a full season, and the total widowhood system is adapted specifically to the demands of marathon competitions. His training focuses on rapid recovery, dense musculature, balanced plumage, and mental stability — all essential for success over extreme distances. His philosophy can be summarized in one clear statement:
“A pigeon that doesn’t classify doesn’t breed. It’s that simple.” — Bogdan Ciobanu
Through consistency, rigor, and authentic passion, Bogdan Ciobanu embodies the image of the modern pigeon fancier — one who combines tradition with the science of selection, building performance through work, patience, and respect for the racing bird. His results in the most demanding competitions prove that excellence in pigeon breeding is not inherited, but built.
For marathon enthusiasts seeking not just impressive pedigrees but pigeons capable of proving themselves in flight, the Siminicea loft stands today as a trusted reference and a living example of the art of high-performance pigeon breeding, cultivated with passion in northern Moldova.