Ouch! I prefer facts than opinions! That is why I test people's opinions and do "stupid" experiments. But if they turned out right, I have even more respect to that person. Because that person is wise!
I am 50/50 on what de Vera Loft is thinking of doing. In my "opinion" (LOL!) he/she will end up as pedigree breeder (please no offense--I am not saying that you are a pedigree breeder, but could end up with!). Statistically, if you believe in bell curve shape, most pigeons are average. I think only 10-20% are actually good birds.( I have decided in my loft that breeding birds should have earned that spot!) Now, even Jos Thone after breeding his champion birds ended up with only 1 good pigeon after breeding 10 youngsters.
In my "opinion" you most likely will breed "average" pigeons than "good" or "champion" ones.
Now if de Vera losses that bird and it happens to be a gift and breaks friendship, then he/she definitely has to keep the bird because something else is at stake! Perhaps to compromise just do what Henry, Dave and Renee say and perhaps loft fly that bird.
Opinions that turned out true are perhaps greater than facts because it shows wisdom which time and experience give.