Previously competing under the name Hoebeke-Van den Bossche, this combination was a true all-round top loft for many years. From 1987 to 2020, no less than 7 Emperor titles were won (across all flights!), and this in one of the largest clubs in our country: "De Kat" (De Vrijheid) in Ophasselt. The multiple wins of the Supercup also earned this colony its well-deserved recognition.
In recent years, the results had diminished due to the passing of caretaker mother Juliette (she could no longer access the lofts), but the performances with the young pigeons were still satisfactory. As Eric had been struggling more with his health lately, they decided to participate in 2024 only with the young pigeons and a limited team of yearlings, and this solely in the garden loft. The pigeons were selected very strictly and were kept together (could choose their partners) around December 15. Since Eric was in the hospital, the young pigeons were placed here and there with other enthusiasts where they won various firsts and other top prizes! They planned to keep the second round.... but unfortunately, Eric passed away on March 1 of this year, and the curtain fell permanently on this all-round loft. Just to add: no breeding occurred in 2024 with the pigeons born in 2023.
In recent years, especially the "Brown" type and the "Houdini" line have proven their racing and breeding value, also with several other enthusiasts like Jan Vanderbracht (Ophasselt), Geert Verlinden (Aaigem), Otte Antoine (Bambrugge)… And certainly not to forget: in 1987, Sonia Van der Maelen (daughter-in-law) started with 60 young pigeons from this loft, and everyone now knows the success story that followed... If you were to look at the pedigrees of Van der Maelen, many top pigeons from this loft emerge in the later generations.
In this total sale, there are several proven breeding pigeons that can give many enthusiasts a boost to their performance. Magnificent pigeons in hand, unique color shades, and a smart head on their bodies, what more can a person want?