On Sunday afternoon (and evening), we were guests at “Salons Caipirinha” for the celebration of the laureates from the various disciplines concerning the “battle year” 2023 in Merelbeke.
A spacious parking lot for the guests and a warm welcome by Chairman Mr. Daniël Aerens and his “companion on the road” Mr. Mark De Backer at the entrance of the establishment, after which we could partake in a lavish reception.
A “drink” and an “exquisite” snack á volonté during an extensive reception were offered to us.
Afterward, the names were called for participation in the banquet... expertly presented by the team of “Salons Caipirinha”... a “feast” for the eyes and taste buds of the numerous guests at the celebratory table.
Prior to this, there was a welcoming address by Mr. Chairman to the many supporters, and during the “courses,” the awards were presented for the outstanding performers of 2023 in a smooth manner... an organization that was “on point” with what often lacks at such events: a well-deserved attentiveness and spontaneous applause from those present.
The “release managers and guides” were also not forgotten, receiving a word of thanks that was greatly appreciated by everyone!
The pigeon sport remains and will continue to display a social and cordial character, despite the evolution of the entire scene, between the average enthusiast and “the top”... much nostalgia, but a return to the reminiscing of pre-Millennium days proves to be a utopia... times are changing... see “Modern Times” by Chaplin and “1984” by George Orwell... hard to accept or resign for the “wool-pulled-over-the-eyes” enthusiasts over the years, but we must accept this and strive to find balance between what “once was” and “today lives.”
I would like to conclude my remarks with a word of thanks to the board members who to this day have been at the helm with much idealism for this organization... FVOV-OVV.
Some of whom can already boast a career spanning over half a century!
One must always take action in life… shouting and complaining from the “sidelines” never brings any relief!
Let us cherish the currently essential organizations serving the sport, and I would like to conclude with the words of late Alice Nahon: “It’s good to look into one’s own heart.”
Just before going to sleep… or from dawn to dusk… I’ve done no harm to any heart!
Onward to 2024... pigeon sport is not only a meaningful hobby and “day-filler” but a social event that even “COVID-19” could not diminish😉
LUC