John and Spencer Nicholson, a father and son partnership from Rochester, Kent, are widely recognized as leading figures in the world of long-distance pigeon racing, particularly in the UK. For decades, their meticulous approach to breeding, racing, and conditioning marathon pigeons has resulted in a dynasty of exceptional birds capable of conquering races of 600 miles and beyond. This article delves into the methods and bloodlines that have made John and Spencer Nicholson synonymous with success in marathon pigeon racing.
The Nicholson Loft: Home of Champions
The Nicholson’s pigeon loft, while modest in size at 19 ft x 6 ft, is a testament to their practical and efficient approach. Constructed from wood with a pent roof, the loft is divided into three sections: two for the old bird race team and one for young birds. Housing just 70 pigeons at peak season, the emphasis is clearly on quality over quantity. Hygiene is paramount, with the loft cleaned twice daily, 365 days a year. A clever addition of thin plastic sheeting on the floor simplifies cleaning and allows for regular disinfection without dampness issues. An Expelair extractor fan further ensures optimal air quality, minimizing dust and promoting a healthy environment. Facing north-east, the loft’s design relies on natural temperature increases, aligning with the timing of long-distance races in July and August. Louvered fronts with adjustable covers and removable glass panels allow for climate control, protecting the birds from harsh weather while maximizing natural airflow.
Bloodlines of a Marathon Dynasty
The foundation of the John Spencer Nicholson strain dates back over thirty years with the acquisition of young birds from Eddie Newcombe, a Scottish fancier then based in Macmerry. Initially, these Newcombe pigeons showed promise in homing ability but lacked racing speed. However, John and Spencer Nicholson’s commitment to perseverance led them to breed selectively within this original stock for the first 4-5 years, resisting the urge for immediate outcrossing. This patient approach, combined with strategic introductions of select high-quality outcrosses over three decades, has solidified their pigeons as a distinct and formidable strain. The Nicholsons’ rigorous breeding program, coupled with the extreme distance testing of each generation, has resulted in a family of pigeons renowned for their marathon racing capabilities. At one point, an astounding 50% of their old bird race team – 28 pigeons – were multiple 600+ mile competitors, a testament to the depth and consistency of their bloodlines.
The Marathon Racer Type: Built for Endurance
John and Spencer Nicholson favor medium to small-sized pigeons, dismissing the notion that bigger is better in marathon racing. They have observed that some of their smallest hens have bred exceptional racers. Through a natural selection process mirroring Darwin’s “survival of the fittest,” their pigeons have evolved into a distinct type. Compared to the original Newcombe birds, the Nicholson strain is characterized by a more compact build, with greater depth in the chest and less overall length – traits conducive to sustained long-distance flight.
Management and Training for Marathon Success
The Nicholson’s management system is geared towards preparing pigeons for the rigors of marathon racing. Mating occurs in early to mid-March for all birds, including yearlings, stock birds, and marathon race candidates. After the first round of eggs, training commences with loft exercise and short 30-mile tosses. The loft remains open as much as possible, encouraging natural foraging and nest-building behavior. For “pipe openers,” a consistent 30-mile training spot is utilized. Young birds may receive occasional longer tosses up to 80 miles before Young Bird Nationals. Importantly, John and Spencer Nicholson are firm believers in group training releases, avoiding single-up training. While young birds were previously heavily trained and entered into National races, the Nicholsons have found comparable success with youngsters undergoing extensive private training without actual racing in their birth year. Regardless of their young bird racing experience, John and Spencer emphasize the necessity of training for all young birds in their first year.
Marathon Race Preparation: A Natural Approach
Following initial training, the old bird team participates in four to five 80-mile inland races, followed by two to three 200-mile channel races. Crucially, they are then given a four-week rest period before their first major International long-distance race. During this rest, only short 30-mile training spins are employed to maintain fitness. The Nicholsons race their pigeons on the natural system. To optimize performance, they sometimes separate pairs to create renewed enthusiasm during exercise. Races ranging from 600-700 miles demand exceptional qualities: stamina, intelligence, and the ability to navigate independently over vast distances. John and Spencer Nicholson understand that these marathon pigeons are rare and valuable athletes. Given their demanding race program, often including 2-3 races between 500-700 miles per season, pigeons are not always sent in their ideal nest condition. Instead, fitness and overall condition are the primary selection criteria for each race. The Nicholsons believe that a truly high-quality pigeon will perform well regardless of nest condition, provided it is in peak physical form. If a specific nest condition were to be chosen, they would aim for birds sitting eggs around hatch time, or a few days before or after, for both cocks and hens.
Feeding and Medication: Keeping Champions Healthy
John and Spencer Nicholson advocate for generous feeding, particularly when preparing pigeons for International races, considering the immense workload involved. All birds, including yearlings and late-breds competing in races up to 560 miles annually, are provided with a standard widowhood-type mix constantly. This base feed is supplemented with peanuts, linseed, and a homemade “cake mix” during the build-up to long races. Upon returning from a marathon race, pigeons receive honey dissolved in warm water and a light depurative mix for the first day, before returning to the regular racing mixture. Young birds are fed the same high-carbohydrate widowhood mix with 25% barley added, fed morning and night, stopping when barley is left uneaten. Medication is used strategically as a preventative measure. Canker treatment is administered throughout the season, and Doxycycline is used to prevent respiratory issues. Garlic bulbs are consistently placed in drinkers year-round, with multivitamins added mid-week and honey post-race. Fresh grit and minerals are always available.
Nicholson’s Marathon Champions: A Legacy of Excellence
The Nicholson’s methods have produced a remarkable string of successes, including eight Spanish Diploma winners and seven BICC International race winners. Earning a Spanish Diploma, requiring three appearances in the results of the BBC Palamos/Barcelona race, is a significant achievement in itself, highlighting the exceptional consistency of their pigeons.
The Nicholsons’ 8 Spanish Diploma Winners:
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Barkis: A BBC Spanish Diploma winner with multiple top section and open positions in BBC Palamos races, and consistent performances in Perpignan, Pau, Marseille, and Dax.
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Dorrit: Another BBC Spanish Diploma winner, consistently placing high in BBC Palamos races and achieving notable positions in BICC Perpignan and Marseille.
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Kate: A BBC Spanish Diploma winner with multiple top 10 open positions in BBC Palamos races and a 3rd BICC Perpignan, also a three-time winner of Greater Distance Single Bird awards.
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Hetty: A BBC Spanish Diploma winner, achieving 1st Section, 3rd Open BBC Palamos, and consistent performances in other Palamos races, Pau, San Sebastian, and Dax.
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Dora: A BBC Spanish Diploma winner with multiple top section positions in BBC Palamos races, including a 2nd Section, 8th Open.
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Miggs: A BBC Spanish Diploma winner with top section positions in BBC Palamos and Barcelona races, demonstrating versatility across different marathon race points.
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Barkisson: A BBC Spanish Diploma winner excelling in Palamos and Barcelona races, also achieving top positions in BICC Marseille and Perpignan races.
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Tilda: A BBC Spanish Diploma winner with multiple top section positions in BBC Barcelona and Palamos races, a daughter of Jinni, another champion pigeon.
The Nicholsons’ 7 BICC International Winners:
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Perpignan Susie: 1st BICC Perpignan, also achieving high international positions.
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Little Nell: 1st BICC Pau, 3rd BICC Perpignan, a dual classic winner.
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Nancy: A dual BICC Perpignan winner, achieving 1st BICC Perpignan twice, and also placing well in BICC Dax and Barcelona, and BBC Palamos.
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Marley: 1st BICC Dax, also 4th BICC Dax, and placing in BICC Pau, with performances in NFC Pau and San Sebastian, and a Greater Distance Single Bird Dax win.
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Sarah: 1st BICC Barcelona, with high international positions, and also placing in BICC Marseille and NFC Pau races, along with a Greater Distance Single Bird Barcelona win.
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Jinni: 1st BICC Marseille, also placing in BICC Barcelona, BBC Palamos, BICC Perpignan, and NFC Pau and Dax races, another Greater Distance Single Bird Barcelona winner.
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Plum: An incredible racer with 11 times over 500 miles, 9 times over 600 miles, and 7 times in the top 26 in National Races over 600 miles, including multiple top positions in BICC Marseille and BBC Palamos. In 2005, Plum became the first UK pigeon to fly Barcelona, Marseille, and Perpignan within four weeks, covering 1900 miles.
A New Chapter for John & Spencer Nicholson
Due to John Nicholson’s health challenges, a new loft has been constructed at Spencer’s home, marking a relocation for future racing endeavors. John and Spencer Nicholson’s partnership represents an unparalleled legacy in long-distance pigeon racing. Their dedication, meticulous methods, and exceptional pigeons have solidified their place among the sport’s elite. We extend our congratulations to John and Spencer Nicholson on their remarkable achievements and wish John improved health to continue enjoying the sport they have so masterfully dominated.
