How fast can a racing pigeon travel? Between 65-70 miles per hours when they’re in a Mercury Tracer!

Several weeks ago Sterling Middle School contacted the park about a pigeon they had found near the school. They were concerned because the bird had an identification band on its leg. They called us thinking it might be one of our birds and we had them bring the bird out to the Park. (Our pigeons aren’t free-flighted). After checking the internet and making several long distance calls we learned that the bird was one of 500 that had been released for a special race.

Unfortunately only nine of the 500 birds had so far returned home, so we were determined to make sure number 10 got home. We kept her and fed her for a couple of weeks until we could make arrangements for her trip. On Friday 11-06 one of our volunteers drove to Chicago and completed our part of getting #10 to her rightful owner. Hopefully when she’s entered into another race weather conditions won’t be so bad that she gets lost. However, if she or a friend of hers ends up down here…we’re ready with the pigeon feed!

On September 19th Wildlife Prairie hosted our first annual off-road triathlon. The athletes enjoyed beautiful weather, a challenging course and a great meal. This event utilized a lake and trail system on a portion of the property that has been left alone for many years. We will start hosting off-road running races, mountain bike races, and triathlons from this area. The event could not have been such a success without the dedication of Laura Bertsch, Beverly Enslow, the Peoria Triathlon Club and PAMBA. Thanks again to all of the participants and volunteers!



For race results please go to itsracetime.com

The Triathlon consisted of a 500m Swim, 10k mountain bike trail and 5k trail run. The Biathlon included the 10k mountain bike trail and 5k trail run.

In 2010 this event could become an official Xterra Points Series race - the first Xterra in Illinois.

To view more photos from the race please visit us on Facebook