Over 80 years of successful pigeon sport!
It all started with 'John' Koopman. Never heard of him? Of course we mean Cornelis; his family, friends and acquaintances call him 'John', or 'Johnny'. Why 'Johnny'? The parents to Cornelis, Harmina and Jacob Koopman, had a German speaking maid at their farm, Dine Moes, and for Dine the name Cornelis was too complicated. 'You must call him Johnny', she said. Why Johnny? 'That is my brother's name!' said Dine and the nickname was born. To prevent misunderstandings, we call him Cornelis. He was born on May 31st 1915 in Nieuw Amsterdam as fifth child to a traditional family of farmers. He is now over 93 years of age! Cornelis grew up in a huge family; he had 6 brothers and 5 sisters, unfortunately they all deceased. Last year Cornelis celebrated 80 years of pigeon fanciersship... unbelievable but true!