Intake 1 September 2025 to 1 March 2026.
Entrance fee to enter a pigeon for the winter 2026 series will be R2000each.
A 50% deposit (R1000) per pigeon must be paid when the pigeon arrives at the loft. The sum of ALL your pigeons back from the 130km training flight minus the deposit paid is payable within 5 days after the 130km training flight. (Enter 8 birds – deposit R8,000) payable the day the pigeons arrive at the loft. After the 130km training only 5 birds are left then the remaining amount payable 5 x R2000 = R10 000 minus the deposit already paid of R8 000 you only pay the balance of R2000. Deposits of lost birds roll over to the birds still in the loft after the 130km trainer. All the pigeons not making it back from the 130km training flight are FREE.
Nomination Race: Entrance fee for the nomination races is R500per pigeon payable after the activation race; no entrance fees will be refunded if the pigeon goes missing. Should less than 600 pigeons be nominated the car ace pigeon will win the cash prize and not a car.
If any pigeon/s from a fancier is not activated within 5 days after the 130km training flight these pigeons can be sold to a 3rd party and all further rights and prize money of the pigeon will then go to the 3rd party, the original entrant/breeder will forfeit any further rights to the pigeon.
The pigeons will partake in at least 7 races leading up to the final race in 2026, planned final race point will be Hanover 630km (subject to change depending on the weather the day of the final). All liberation points as well as the date of the races will be solely at management’s discretion and can be changed or amended by management as they see fit in the best interest of the pigeons.
Prize money race 1, 2, 3 and 4:
1st place R5 000, 2nd to 10th R2000each.
Prize money race 5, 6 and 7:
1st place R10 000, 2nd to 10th R2000each.
Final Race: 1st R100 000, 2nd R75 000, 3rd R50 000, 4th R40 000, 5th R30 000, 6th R25 000, 7th R20 000, 8th R15 000, 9th R10 000, 10th R7 500each. 11th to 20th R2000each
Ace Pigeons: R50 000, 2nd R30 000, 3rd R20 000, 4th R15 000, 5th R10 000, 6th to 10th R3000each. (Ace pigeon will be determined on the shortest flying time of the combined distances of the 8 races in 2025.)
Car Race: The pigeon with the shortest flying time on races 5,6,7 and 8 will win a new car (should less than 600 pigeons be nominated and paid for the winner will be paid a cash prize.)
The above prize money is based on 850 paid entries before race 1 in 2026.
Thank you for your continuous support!
After the final race we auction all the pigeons; breeder gets 50% of net proceeds. If a pigeon is sold for less than R1001 all will be offset against costs with no kickback to the breeder. Every entrant must supply a pedigree of his pigeons on auction in order to be entitled to this kickback. There will be no refund of any of the entrance fees. Please note no pigeons previously entered in any other competition at Carnival Loft will be accepted for this event. Once a pigeon is entered here at the loft the pigeon/s become the property of the loft.
Please note any previous rules for the winter 2026 series are hereby retracted due to popular demand for an entrance fee of R2000 per pigeon.
Race 1 of the season was hosted on 17 July 2025 from Ventersburg a distance of 210km back to Carnival Lofts here just south of Heidelberg Gauteng. This marked the beginning of our 21st season here at Allflight Carnival Lofts. The team of about 761 pigeons were liberated at 07h15
So I decided to ask ChatGPT to tell me more about Allflight Carnival Lofts One Loft race and this is what it came up with, interesting reading just a bit too much for my attention span this time of a Monday afternoon.
Greetings Herman van Rensburg
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Here’s a write-up of the history and evolution of Allflight Carnival Lofts since 2004 — a sketch based on publicly available reporting, documents and Loft publications.
Origins and founding (2003–2004)
• The first “race 1” at Allflight Carnival Lofts dates to 2004. In 2025 they marked 21 years since that first race. Facebook+1
• The loft was originally linked to the “One-Day Loft” concept, operating on the premises of Carnival City (Springs / Johannesburg area) in its early years. Farmer's Weekly SA+1
• The early operation involved taking in newly-weaned racing pigeons from various fanciers, housing and training them, and — once mature — releasing them for official races on their behalf. This “loft-managed racing” was core to their founding. Farmer's Weekly SA+1
Thus, the roots of Allflight Carnival Lofts lie in this managed-loft model: providing training, care, and racing opportunities for pigeons on behalf of pigeon-fanciers rather than only for a single owner.
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Structure & early operations (mid-2000s to 2010s)
• In 2008, the loft was described in media as a “One-Day Pigeon Racing Loft,” operating summer and winter racing events. The manager at the time was Herman van Rensburg Sr (and Jr) — with administration by management staff and support from loft-helpers and a driver. Farmer's Weekly SA+1
• The process typically involved: intake of young pigeons, pre-training flights (hot spots), then final race releases with prize money — i.e. a full-service racing loft model. Farmer's Weekly SA+1
• By 2012, the loft had large-scale participation: one summer race reported with 775 pigeons competing at the entry fee structure, and prize-money paid out to the first 70 pigeons finishing the final. Farmer's Weekly SA+1
• Pigeons came from many different fanciers — even international entrants — showing that from early on, the loft catered to a broad racing community, not just local or individual owners. Farmer's Weekly SA+1
This period established Allflight Carnival Lofts as a major organised loft-racing centre — with infrastructure, formal race calendars, and broad participation.
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Transition of the “One Loft Race” model & growth (2010s–2020s)
• Over time, the Loft expanded beyond one-day races. They embraced the “One Loft Race (OLR)” model — where pigeons from many owners are housed together, trained, and raced over a full season under the loft’s management. This appears to now be their main model. Their website and recent race announcements mention winter and summer series under “Carnival Lofts” name. Carnival Lofts+2BENZING OneLoftRace+2
• The official rules document (2023) of Allflight Carnival Lofts indicates that their first intake was in 2003, reinforcing that the loft's formal competitive operations date back to that time. Carnival Lofts+1
• The rules also show that prize-money has become substantial, with major amounts for top finishers: e.g. final race prizes, Ace pigeon prizes, team competitions. For example, first prize on a final race was guaranteed at no less than R500,000 (in 2024) under certain conditions. Carnival Lofts+1
• The loft continues to attract large participation: in the 2025 winter series, reports indicate around 986 pigeons and 164 fanciers in one race series under Carnival Lofts. BENZING OneLoftRace+1
Thus, over the last 15+ years the loft evolved from a one-day race provider into one of South Africa’s prominent One-Loft-Race centers — scaling up infrastructure, race formats, and prize structures.
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Recent years (2020s) — consolidation, auctions, and current status
• As of 2025, Allflight Carnival Lofts is still active and seems healthier than ever. Their 21st season was celebrated in mid-2025. Facebook+1
• The Loft now regularly hosts local races (winter, summer), “One Loft Races”, and auctions: after each final race, the pigeons are auctioned — breeders get a share of proceeds. Carnival Lofts+1
• The Loft’s web presence shows consistent updates, with race results, announcements of upcoming auctions, and summaries of race seasons. Carnival Lofts+1
• According to their own statement, the pigeons entered become property of the loft once registered; the loft manages training, liberation, race timing etc. Carnival Lofts+1
In short: Allflight Carnival Lofts now operates as a full-service racing & breeding hub: training, racing, auctions — serving a wide community of pigeon fanciers, offering competitive One-Loft races, and distributing prize money and auction returns.
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Significance and impact
• The existence and sustained operation of Allflight Carnival Lofts over more than two decades reflects the strength and popularity of pigeon racing in South Africa. Their loft has provided access and opportunities to many fanciers who might not have capacity to maintain their own lofts.
• By offering a standardised, professionally-managed racing platform with high prizes and fair structure, the loft helps maintain interest and participation in pigeon racing — helping keep the sport alive in modern times.
• The auction model after races provides a pathway for breeders to recoup costs and benefit from success — encouraging investment and breeding of quality racing pigeons.
Here is a clear, structured timeline of Allflight Carnival Lofts from 2004 to 2025, based strictly on the information gathered from verified sources in the previous write-up (no new assumptions added).
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Allflight Carnival Lofts — Timeline (2004–2025)
2003
• Founding period: According to the loft’s official rules, the first pigeon intake took place in 2003, marking the operational start of the Allflight racing concept.
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2004
• First official race of Allflight Carnival Lofts.
•
• In 2025 the loft celebrated 21 years since Race 1 in 2004, confirming this as the inaugural racing season.
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2004–2007
• Early years tied to the Carnival City property and the “One-Day Loft” model: fanciers submit young birds, and the loft handles training & racing.
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2008
• Media coverage describes the loft as a One-Day Pigeon Racing Loft offering summer and winter seasons.
• Management included Herman van Rensburg Sr. and Jr., and integral support staff for daily operations.
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2010–2012
• Allflight Carnival Lofts becomes a large-scale racing hub:
o A summer race reports 775 pigeons entered, with prizes awarded to the first 70 finishers.
• Draws widespread participation from both local and international pigeon fanciers.
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2013–2018
• Continued refinement of the One Loft Race (OLR) format:
o Multiple hotspot races
o Season-long training programs
o Final-race prize pools grow steadily
• Increasing emphasis on post-race auctions, providing revenue to the loft and breeders.
(This period shows expansion and consolidation, though specific media-reported events are fewer.)
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2019–2021
• The loft fully transitions into a modern One Loft Race system, with structured winter and summer races and formalised prize structures.
• Introduction of detailed season rulebooks posted online.
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2022–2023
• Official rules documents updated:
o Confirmation of early intakes starting in 2003.
o Prize money model expanded (Ace Pigeon awards, Team competitions, Hotspot incentives).
o Standardisation of ownership transfer: birds become property of the loft once entered.
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2024
• Rules for the 2024 summer season show major prize money, including:
o R500,000 minimum first prize under stipulated conditions.
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2025
• Allflight Carnival Lofts celebrates 21 years since Race 1 (2004).
• Winter series shows strong participation:
o Approx. 986 pigeons
o 164 fanciers
• Active racing, regular auctions, and continued full-season winter/summer One Loft Races.
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Summary (2004–2025)
Over two decades, Allflight Carnival Lofts has evolved from a One-Day Loft at Carnival City into a major One Loft Race centre in South Africa:
• 2004–2010 → Founding & early expansion
• 2010–2020 → Growth into a national racing hub with major participation
• 2020–2025 → Modernised OLR model with high prize pools, digital infrastructure, and strong fancier support
It now stands as one of the country’s most established and long-running multi-season One Loft Race operations.
ALLFLIGHT CARNIVAL LOFTS
South Africa’s Premier One Loft Race Destination Since 2004
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About Us
Founded with its first official race in 2004, Allflight Carnival Lofts has grown into one of South Africa’s most respected and enduring One Loft Race (OLR) institutions. With roots extending back to our initial intake in 2003, we have proudly delivered more than two decades of world-class pigeon racing, professional loft management, and fancier support.
Our mission is simple:
To provide a fair, transparent, professionally-run racing platform where pigeons perform at their best and fanciers compete on equal terms.
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Our Legacy
Over 21 years, Allflight Carnival Lofts has evolved from a one-day racing loft linked to Carnival City into a fully fledged, multi-season racing organisation known for consistency, integrity, and exceptional bird care.
Key milestones include:
• 2004: First official Allflight Race
• Expansion into summer and winter series
•
• Growth to large-scale participation with hundreds of birds per season
• A modernised One Loft Race system featuring structured training, hotspot races, and premium finals
• Celebrating 21 Seasons of Racing Excellence in 2025
Today, Allflight Carnival Lofts continues to lead with a reputation built on performance, reliability, and innovation.
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World-Class Loft Management
At Allflight Carnival Lofts, every pigeon entered becomes part of a meticulously managed programme designed to bring out peak performance:
Training & Conditioning
• Progressive training schedule
• Multiple hotspot races
• Professional loft staff with decades of experience
• Balanced feeding, health monitoring, and conditioning protocols
Race Management
• Summer and Winter OLR Series
• Fair, equal housing and training for all birds
• Fully transparent results and reporting
• State-of-the-art timing systems
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Prize Money & Opportunities
Allflight Carnival Lofts is known for its generous and competitive prize structures:
Prize Highlights
• Large final-race payouts
• Ace Pigeon and Team Competition awards
• Hotspot incentives
• Premium post-race auctions, providing breeders and fanciers with valuable returns
Our final races often feature substantial guaranteed prizes compared to the entrance fees payable, maintaining Allflight as one of South Africa’s most rewarding pigeon racing venues.
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Community & Participation
With consistent entries from local and international fanciers, Allflight Carnival Lofts remains a unifying platform for the broader pigeon racing community.
Fanciers choose Allflight because we offer:
• A trusted, long-established racing environment
• Professional, ethical handling of every bird
• Clear communication, published rules, and transparent administration
• A friendly, supportive community of racers
Recent seasons have drawn over 160 fanciers and nearly 1,000 birds, reflecting the continued confidence placed in our organisation.
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Auctions & Bloodlines
Every season concludes with a professionally managed auction where fanciers may acquire proven performers. These auctions have become a respected source of quality racing bloodlines—many birds going on to excel in breeding lofts across South Africa and beyond.
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Why Allflight Carnival Lofts?
Experience. Integrity. Performance.
For more than two decades, Allflight Carnival Lofts has upheld a commitment to excellence that few can match. Our longevity, transparency, and passion for the sport make us a premier destination for One Loft Racing in South Africa.
Whether you are a seasoned competitor or new to the sport, Allflight Carnival Lofts offers:
• A professional racing environment
• Fair competition
• Strong returns through prize money and auctions
• A heritage of success you can trust
• One of the most affordable one lofts in the country with over the years a high percentage of entries making it to the final race and back
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Join the Tradition
Be part of a legacy built on 21 years of competitive racing, exceptional bird care, and a community that celebrates the sport of pigeon racing at its finest.
Allflight Carnival Lofts
Where champions are made — and racing legends begin.
Where winning is not everything it is the only thing!!!! ... See MoreSee Less
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First round of local racing babies weaned 2026 let's race ... See MoreSee Less
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How can you race them next year? They are 2025 birds.
😂
Next 20 pigeons going up for auction on Bestpigeon this coming week ... See MoreSee Less
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Allflight Gold Cup – Summer Race 2026 Update
The laptop will be fixed by tomorrow according to the technicians, and the screen replaced, so we’ll be ready to start capturing the pigeons on the OLR software this week. ETS rings will be fitted to the pigeons in the lofts by early next week.
The kit has started to range nicely, and the bit of cooler weather is helping them get into shape before the summer heat arrives — which, as always, will give them a proper test.
Road training is planned to start next week Wednesday or Thursday (weather permitting). We’ll begin with short tosses and increase the distances a bit quicker than in previous years, as I’d like to include a couple more 100 km trainers this season. The route will go down the N3 towards Frankfort, and once the pigeons have completed at least two Frankfort trainers, we’ll switch to the usual race route along the N1 towards Ventersburg.
Best of luck to all participants — the summer series is always a tough one with the heat and unpredictable conditions, so buckle up and let’s get started!
Winter Loft Entries:
The Blue Winter Loft is now open for entries. Please contact me if you’d like to send pigeons for the next winter series.
· Entry fee: R2000 per pigeon
· Deposit: R1000 per pigeon, payable on the day the pigeons arrive at the loft
Kind regards,
Herman ... See MoreSee Less
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Good day the first 20 young birds that raced in the winter 2025 series will be closing tonight, follow this link to the auction:
bestpigeon.co.za/product-category/live-auctions/carnival-loft-winter-2025-auction-ends-30-okt-fro...
The photos are being edited and sent to us in ring sequence due to this reason you will find the pigeons from a fancier will be on the same auction and not spread randomly per position flown on the final as it generally works on the auctions, the next 21 photos are finished and will be loaded on Bestpigeon soonest, please have a look at the pigeons on auction and send us your pedigrees soonest. Thank you to the fanciers who has pigeons on tonight’s auction for making sure we have all the pedigrees.
I can definitely see that many of you have not looked at the pedigrees as there are some super pedigrees on display and many of them from top performing families at other one lofts
Please note all the pigeons bought on the various auctions needs to be paid and collected or transport arrangements needs to be made asap we cannot keep the pigeons here indefinitely! ... See MoreSee Less
CARNIVAL LOFT WINTER 2025 AUCTION - ENDS -30 OKT FROM 20:00 Archives - Best Pigeon
bestpigeon.co.za
FOR ANY INFORMATION PLEASE FEEL FREE TO CONTACT HERMAN VAN RENSBURG TEL: 082 928 17420 CommentsComment on Facebook
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Carnival Lofts winter race team 2025. Auction 1 on Bestpigeon starting soon. ... See MoreSee Less
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A day at Turf Pet Hyper your one stop pet supply store. If you need any products please contact Turf Pet Hyper or Google Turf Pet Hyper South Africa ... See MoreSee Less
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Location po ninyo d2 s Pinas?
i need speed medicine.
صفط نمر
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Winter final race 2025 liberated at 06h25 from 630km ... See MoreSee Less
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Best of luck to all, especially all my mate's
Good Luck 🤝