In recent years, efforts have been made to revive and introduce Taylor’s story to a broader audience. As we get closer to the official launch of MTCCOK, let’s look at and become familiar with Major Taylor and his achievements in the world of cycling. Marshall Walter Taylor is regarded as a cycling legend who was one of the greatest bicyclists of his era, setting numerous world records and winning
a World Championship and multiple National Championships, all while battling racism throughout his career from the late 1800s to early 1900s. Born in 1878 in Indianapolis, Indiana. He received his first bike at 12 years old and quickly became an expert trick rider. Taylor showed such skill with the handling of bicycles that he was hired to perform stunts in front of a local bicycle shop. At this time, it is widely believed that he received his nickname “Major” because he performed the cycling stunts wearing a military uniform. While still in Indianapolis, Taylor was well known by cycling enthusiasts for his athletic prowess. After moving to Worcester, Massachusetts, he competed in road and track races during his amateur career. Taylor was a powerful sprinter and excelled in sprints. Major Taylor won his first significant cycling event on June 30, 1895, in a 75-mile road race. In 1896, Taylor turned professional at 18 years old. His first professional race “The Six Day Race” was a multi-day endurance event in which he finished in 8th place. In 1898, Taylor held 7 world records ranging from quarter-mile to one-mile sprints. In 1899, he added 3 more world records while also winning the one-mile championship in Montreal, Canada, becoming the first black World
Champion of cycling on August 10, 1899. After not being allowed to compete for the American sprint championship in the previous year, he was allowed to race in 1900 and beat the former champion to become the American Sprint Champion. For more information on Major Taylor please see links below. https://www.smithsonianmag.com/history/the-unknown-story-of-the-black-cyclone-champion-who-broke-the-color-barrier-33465698/
https://youtu.be/HdBUSkYmeP8