Twelve years in fact.
So when one of Hawkins’ four pigeons crossed the finish line first in South Australia last week, it was certainly cause for celebration.
‘‘I am very happy for a win after about 12 years,’’ Hawkins said.
‘‘The closest I have come before is sixth.’’
Hawkins’ four racing pigeons were sent to Adelaide in December last year, and the first race in the series was held last Thursday.
The pigeons travelled 200km between North Adelaide and Peterborough.
Hawkins’ entries were among 600 pigeons from all over the country.
The Adelaide racing schedule will continue throughout the year, with races building in distance to 350km, 450km, 700km and 900km.
And Hawkins will have his fingers crossed, for another success.
The win came about the same time Hawkins was elected president of the Greater Valley Pigeon Federation.
The federation membership spans across Finley, Berrigan and Tocumwal, and across to Wangaratta, Benalla and Shepparton.
‘‘It’s been a few years since I was in an executive role, so I thought it was time I helped out again,’’ he said.
Hawkins is not the only pigeon racer in the 2021 executive committee, with Margo Robinson the secretary and Luke Sibraa as race liberation controller.
Hawkins said they are enthusiastic about the year ahead.
The Greater Valley Pigeon Federation — previously known as the Goulburn Valley Pigeon Club — was established in 1956.
Its club races are held from early July to October, with races of between 200km and 1200km being conducted.
At the end of the local season, club and federation aggregate trophies are presented.
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