The American Racing Pigeon Union (AU) has officially kicked off its 2026 election cycle, with member voting now underway. Ballots must be submitted no later than 5:00 p.m. Central time on July 15, 2026.
Executive Director Lauren Gandara confirmed that all eligible members will receive a paper ballot by mail and may choose to vote either by returning the paper ballot or by casting their vote online. Members with an email address on file with the organization were also notified electronically on June 1 via a message from YesElections. Members are advised to check their spam, junk, or promotions folders if the email is not immediately visible in their inbox.
Positions on the 2026 Ballot
This election covers several national officer roles and zone director seats:
- President – Crazy Al Christeleit
- Executive Vice President – Terry Finnerty
- Vice President – No candidate filed
- Treasurer – Butch Shoop (newly created elected position)
- Lakes Zone Director (IL, IN, KY, MI, OH, WV) – Dave Wilson
- Southwest Zone Director (AL, FL, GA, MD, MS, NC, PR and Caribbean, SC, TN, VA, DC) – Roland Gutierrez
- Pacific Mountain Zone Director (AZ, CA, HI, NV) – Tim Perry
All races are uncontested. Officers and directors serve four-year terms per the AU Constitution and Bylaws.
Because no candidate filed for Vice President, the AU Constitution and Bylaws allow the incoming President to appoint someone to fill the role, pending approval from the AU Board of Directors.
Each eligible member may cast only one ballot. For technical help with online voting, contact YesElections at Help+ARPU@YesElections.com or 866-384-9978. For general questions, reach the AU directly at 405-848-5801.