Planning pairings for next season and could use some input.
I’ve got strong Janssen hens and recently acquired a Meulemans cock from a dispersal sale. Thinking of crossing them for middle distance birds (150-350 miles).
Anyone have experience with this cross? The Janssen are proven sprinters but I want to push the distance a bit.
The Meulemans cock is a direct son of a 500 mile winner so the stamina should be there.
Worried about losing the speed though.
Classic cross that’s been done thousands of times. Generally works well.
Janssen give the speed and homing instinct, Meulemans add the stamina and physical strength for longer races. First generation crosses are usually very good.
Don’t expect all the youngsters to be middle distance birds though. You’ll get some that favor the Janssen side (sprinters) and some that favor the Meulemans (distance). That’s just how it works with outcrosses.
The key is selecting the right ones for the right races.
In my 30+ years I’ve found that the hen contributes more to racing ability than most people think. If your Janssen hens are proven racers, that’s a good foundation.
The question is - what were the Meulemans cock’s dam like? The mother of your stock cock matters.
Got pedigrees?