“Catwoman II” wins the Herbots Golden Wing of 2025 in Denmark

“Catwoman II” claimed the prestigious Herbots Golden Wing in Denmark after being the first pigeon clocked nominated pigeon in the marathon race from Rouen in France and also taking the win of 1st National overall for Team Eriksson from Odense

Team Eriksson had sent 17 pigeons, all carefully prepared for the demanding marathon challenge from Rouen — a tough journey of over 900 km back to Odense. The liberation took place at 08:05 in the morning, and with the wind conditions in mind, they knew there was a real possibility of pigeons returning the same day. And that is exactly what happened. They describe the return of the winner: at 19:18, a blue pigeon appeared in the sky and the excitement instantly got high — especially as all their blue pigeons from the two previous races had already returned home. And sure enough, it was their first nominated hen named “Catwoman II” landing on the Sputnik trap. 

“Catwoman II” is a true long-distance and marathon specialist and has already raced several times in the very top for instance winning:

• 1st Section / 9th National Munich (2022)
• 8th Section / 68th National Baden Baden (2023)
• 6th Section / 26th National Munich (2023)
• 4th Section / 12th National Rouen (2024)
• 1st Section / 1st Region / 1st National Rouen (2025)

Her pedigree is an exciting combination: 50% Verweij de Haan (NL) and 50% H. Lindenberg (NL).

Her father is “Son of Batman” (9917) from Verweij de Haan (NL) — one of Team Eriksson’s very best breeding cocks. He is a son of the famous “Batman”, who achieved excellent national performances, including 10th National Marseille in the Netherlands. Her mother is “PØ’s Barcagirl” (6303), a daughter of “Prince Barcelona”, who won 1st National Barcelona for H. Lindenberg (NL).

After the 2025 season, “Catwoman II” was transferred to the breeding loft. There is no doubt that “Catwoman II” has fully earned her place among the breeders.

A day to remember

Nationwide around 40 pigeons returned home on the day of liberation — making the achievement even more impressive. Team Eriksson showed real strength by bringing 7 pigeons home the same day, with the last two arriving at 22:30, in complete darkness.

Team Eriksson describe it as a very special experience to see pigeons returning from a race of more than 900 km. late in the evening and sometime in darkness — when it should practically be impossible to fly. But it shows just how determined and motivated these pigeons can be. 

Natural system, clear routines and smart choices

Team Eriksson race on the natural system. Their fairly modest loft setup makes the widowhood system difficult to practice — but even if it were possible, they would still choose the natural system.

The team also strongly believe that paired pigeons perform better on the long races — something also clearly seen in the Netherlands.

Of course, the natural system can present challenges during summer when races are postponed, or when a pigeon fails to return and nest positions are disrupted, requiring re-pairing. This demands constant attention and experience to keep the racing team at peak readiness.They feed Matador grain according to season and race distance. Their feeding program is planned in spring and followed consistently throughout the summer. 

From the Herbots team we wish you all the best in the pigeonsport in the future.

From left to right: Carsten Petersen (Herbots.dk), Team Eriksson (Preben and Bo), Niels Johansen (Herbots.dk)