With an impressive 4th place in the National Marathon in 2017, the upward trajectory was firmly set. In 2018, they made a powerful statement with a 2nd International Marseille and a 2nd Golden Barcelona Pigeon NL, namely “Benny Batman” and “Avatar”. Convinced that these two powerhouses would form the absolute foundation of this top-class loft, both were transferred to the breeding loft as part of a carefully considered breeding strategy.
In 2019, an absolute world-class performance followed when they competed in Barcelona with a small team — only 3 pigeons entered — and managed to place all 3 within the National Top 80, resulting in the fastest series of 3 pigeons at International level, with an exceptionally low coefficient. That same year, pigeons were also introduced at the Stein loft, which very quickly led to outstanding results there as well.
In 2021, they captured 1st NPO Bordeaux, good for 2nd National against more than 11,000 pigeons. That year once again produced a masterpiece: 10 out of 10 yearlings were clocked in the prizes on National Agen, earning them the prestigious title of Dutch “Grootmeester”.
The greatest stunt by Smeets-Penris took place in 2023. At the Urmond loft, they claimed 1st National Marseille, and shortly thereafter Robin in Stein was consulted — during that very phone call, the 2nd National was also secured! Competing from two lofts and achieving 1st and 2nd National positions is, to say the least, unique.
That same year, they also won the title of 1st International Ace Pigeon PIPA in the Extreme Long Distance category. The wonder pigeon “Nika 91” recorded a 2nd National Marseille and a 15th National Agen, made even more special by the fact that she had already flown a 10th National Agen in 2021.
It is clear that the name Smeets-Penris has not gone unnoticed. Numerous fanciers have already strengthened their lofts with this strain, and the references are rapidly accumulating. Think of a 1st National Bergerac against 28,500 pigeons at Gebr. Driessen, or the 2nd National Narbonne Yearlings (5th International) achieved this very year by Tony and Steve Stoffels. In short, the list of references from the past two years is truly impressive, as is their own roll of honour.
For their auction debut at Pitts, they have selected a very fine group of young pigeons. A rare opportunity for lovers of superlatives!
