B24-1021371 "Zénobe"

1st National Bourges 3.990 old birds & yearlings

Distance: 383km
Velocity: 1,243.69 m/m

Olivier and Justin Poussart once again proved that their loft belongs among Belgium’s finest. In the national Bourges race, their small yet powerful hen claimed 1st National Bourges V against an impressive 3,990 old and yearling pigeons.

Context & Emotions

When the birds were expected, Olivier and Justin were with a fellow fancier watching the last arrivals from a speed race. 

“The moment we saw her cutting through the sky, we knew it was a Bourges bird,” Olivier recalls. “It was a tough race, demanding for the pigeons. But the emotion of a national win is always indescribable.”

The Winning Hen

The champion is a small, muscular hen with a strong wing. 

On the father’s side, she is part of a joint breeding line with Patrick Vervloesem, closely related to "Lady Bourges", their 1st National Bourges 2016 winner. 

Her mother was purchased by Paul Santens in an English auction and carries bloodlines from Bart Geerinckx. 

“What makes her special,” Justin says, “is that she’s from a pair that has already produced several top birds, including the National Ace Pigeon KBDB S.M.D. 2023.”

Simplicity as the Secret to Success

The Poussarts believe in simplicity and consistency. 

“There’s nothing fancy about our system,” they say. “We feed Galaxy Sport Light and Sport Energy mixes from Beyers, follow Vincent Schroeder’s medical program, and make sure the pigeons train at least one hour a day.”

The loft houses a well-balanced mix of old, yearling, and young pigeons, with strict daily organization. 

Teamwork Makes the Difference

“In season, we start at 5:30–6:00 AM cleaning and feeding. The widowers fly in the morning, and around 7:30 we head to work. In the afternoon, we train the rest and finish up around 9 PM. No fixed roles, we do everything together.”

Beyond This Victory

Besides this national victory, their team performed well in other races. 

“Our 2nd National Argenton, a hen from the PIPA Elite Center, also did great: 8th National Bourges, 3rd Provincial Bourges, and 7th Provincial Argenton. She earned 4th Ace Pigeon KBDB Great Middle Distance 2025 – Old Birds.”

Hungry for More

Resting on their laurels is not an option. 

“Our goal is clear: keep performing and win more nationals.”

Moments to Cherish 

Even after this achievement, one memory remains unbeatable: 

“Our first national victory, together with Paul Santens, our parents, and my brother Daniel… that will always be the most beautiful moment.”

Olivier & Justin, heartfelt congratulations on behalf of the entire Herbots Team and onto the 9th National victory!

Maarten Herbots