[VIDEO]: R5 million pigeon sets new world record for Albertonian
A large part of Mark's success may be the fact that he approaches pigeon racing like a business, not just a passion or hobby
AN Alberton resident has set a new world record by spending around R5 million on a pigeon recently.
Mark Kitchenbrand spent 360 000 Euro’s (roughly equivalent to R5 million) for Golden Prince (the pigeon) at an auction hosted by PIPA (Pigeon Paradise) in Belgium, on Saturday, March 4.
The Kitchenbrand family has been involved with pigeons since 1907, when one of Mark’s grandfathers was in charge of the pigeon coop that would use the pigeons to send messages during the First World War.
“I was the black sheep of the family as I wasn’t really interested in pigeons,” Mark told the RECORD.
“After I concluded my studies, I started my own business and actually employed my father and brothers, and, because pigeons are such a big part of their lives, I started getting more and more intrigued by it,” he added.
A large part of Mark’s success may be the fact that he approaches pigeon racing like a business, not just a passion or hobby. The decisions he makes are based on research, strategies and risk management, just like one would do in the business world.
One can draw many parallels and similarities between pigeons and racehorses, namely the breeding being of utmost importance and the fact that offspring of two champions of “superior stock” are very sought after and valuable.
It was decided that Golden Prince should stay in Belgium, as they have an elite breeding station where he will be paired and sire around 20 babies (squabs) a year, which will generate a very good income.
“I know it seems like a lot of money to pay for a bird, but it made perfect sense to me. It’s an investment and the money should be made up within only a year and from there it will be clear and ongoing profit. No other business model has that kind of return, it’s unbeatable,” said Mark.
Mark and his partner, Samuel Mbizza, also want to make the sport of pigeon racing better known and more accessible to the general population.
WATCH: Kitchenbrand talks about his love for pigeons. Courtesy of TimesLive
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