PAINTED PIGEONS

Spanish photographer Richardo Cases' newest book Paloma Al Aire documents the practice of pigeon racing in the Spanish regions of Valencia and Murcia.  These painted male pigeons aren't racing to a destination, but chasing a female pigeon, trying to get her attention.  The winner is the one who spends the most time close to her. . . how the judges determine this I'll never know!

"Raising a male champion entails prestige and profits. Painted in a combination of primary colours, like a flag or a soccer kit, the male pigeon raised and trained to mate becomes a projection of the pigeon-keeper, who embodies its sportive, economic and sexual success or failure in the community. Far from the harsh reality of his daily life, the colombaire has a second life where he can get to the top. He just needs a champion pigeon. The pigeon-keeper stays on the ground, while his projection is able to fly." -Dalpine.com