Portugal's pigeon racing community prepares for National Championship

The Tomar Pigeon Racing Club in Portugal is gearing up for the National Pigeon Racing Championship on June 13, following a recent major competition. The sport, known as columbofilia, faces challenges in attracting younger participants and is a major amateur sporting activity across the country. Pigeon racing enthusiasts emphasize the need to change public perceptions, as racing pigeons are viewed as pets and athletes rather than pests. The community continues to adapt amid rising costs and demographic changes, striving to preserve this longstanding tradition.

• 3:24 PMYahoo Sports — Portugal’s pigeon racers keep centuries-old sport aloft