4-H pigeon swoops in to finish race just ahead of sheriff

Sullivan County Sheriff's Office

​SULLIVAN COUNTY - Alvey the 4-H Pigeon narrowly beat County Sheriff Clark Cottom and Chief Deputy Jason Bobbitt in a race across the county late Wednesday afternoon. 

The race had originally been scheduled for Tuesday evening, but was postponed until Wednesday because of wet weather. 

Everything started out great for the Sheriff, as early in the race, Alvey got disoriented and flew toward the Sullivan County Courthouse. 

Alvey made a couple laps around the city and bid the courthouse pigeons goodbye, before heading straight for his pigeon coop, in northeastern Sullivan County. 

The Sheriff had the early lead when tables turned, as the Sheriff got held up by two separate traffic lights on US 41. 

Judges on each end of the race confirmed that Alvey arrived just two minutes before the Sheriff and Chief pulled up. 

Alvey did appear slightly out of breath as police confirmed his identity, by examining his numbered wristband. 

Alvey’s owner - Paisley Wright was happy, but humble in her victory. 

The winner got a free milkshake out of the deal. 

While enjoying her milkshake, Paisley challenged the Sheriff and Chief for a round two at next years fair. 

The Sheriff and Chief have already began strategizing, planning a backroad shortcut to Alvey’s house.