Pigeon racing used to be a little known pastime but over the last few years people from all over the world have joined the sport and as a result of this, prize money can now be very large. The sport was dominated by a very few people but the internet has helped fanciers from all over the world unite. This has increased a thirst for knowledge and getting to the top of the sport can be very daunting for the beginner. Few people are willing to share winning tips and tricks so the best seem to win all the time. Forums are great places to gain information but you can get blinded with science with all the different opinions out there so if you take everybodys advice you can very easily end up in a pickle.

Quality information costs and people don't like giving it out to anyone so choose your mentors carefully. On the other hand, you can get started pretty easily.Start up costs can be quite low and the learning curve can be short. Here is a list of things that you need to be aware of and they are all available to the beginner on the internet:

Buying and breeding winning birds

Types of racing breeds

where to find winning birds and breeders

What to look for in a bird

How much to spend on good stock

Care and feeding

Equipment

Disease

Vaccinations

Food

Finding lost birds

Training for results

Tips and tricks for optimal performance

Dealing with weather issues

Races can be over 1000 miles long originating in different countrys and lasting for months but normally the logistics in setting up these events can be ardouous. This is not the best way to start in the sport. It is best to get aquainted with reigional clubs and start small and slowly aquaint yourself with the rules and regulations and gain knowledge from seasoned veterans without trying to get too complicated.

You dont need a lot of space to keep a loft. Many lofts are situated in towns in small back yards but you must ensure your birds are not stressed and well looked after.

Building your own loft is pretty straight forward and there are many sites that you can get plans to build your own. You can also get secondhand timing clocks as they are quite expensive to buy new. Ebay is a good place to search for items as well as your local clubs.

You will find that there will be an elite crowd who always win and don't take too kindly to newcomers. Don't let this put you off. These people have normally been in the sport for years and don't take too kindly to change. This goes for any elite group but everyone has to start somewhere, just remember that they were new to the sport once. With the right information you will be right up there comprting with the best. It's up to you to level the playing field and you can do this with the right information and the desire to succeed.

Don't get too bogged down in trying to know everything too soon one step at a time and you will get there and start to enjoy the sport of Pigeon Racing.