Hansenne Race

In 1888, a race was promoted by the Club du Midu frome Rome.  Over 600 birds were entered "the cream of Belgium" is the expression used by people at that time.  The Italian authorities would not allow them to cross the frontier and they were eventually liberated Calvi on the Isle of Corsica, a distance of 680 miles.  The race was one of the most difficult ever attempted but Hansenne had the great honor of winning 1st prize on the second day after liberation, no other competitor getting a bird home until the third day.  Only 8 birds were reported in six days.  This is still looked upon as a record.  Hansenne's winner was a dark check bronze cock which he afterwards named "Calvi" and was considered the best bird that ever flew into the Province of Liege.  He later flew Dax, 500 miles, in an opposite direction and in the year following won 19th Niort and other prizes.  



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