Roll’n Strong

A Legacy Forged in Friendship: The Major Taylor Cycling Club of Columbus, Ohio – Marking Decades of Unrivaled Spirit and Community Leadership

Since 1979, the Major Taylor Cycling Club of Columbus, Ohio, has stood as a beacon of dedication, community, and pioneering spirit, building a legacy of extraordinary impact that spans over four decades. In the vibrant tapestry of cycling history, few threads are as significant and inspiring as that woven by Marshall Walter "Major" Taylor, the trailblazing 1899 World Champion cyclist. His indomitable spirit and groundbreaking achievements sparked a movement that found its heart in Columbus.

The remarkable story of the Major Taylor Cycling Club didn't just begin with a single moment; it unfolded through a series of defining experiences that forged a legendary bond. It all started in 1978, a pivotal year, when George Harper, a visionary from Columbus, happened upon the "Midwest Bicycle Review." On its cover, a powerful image of Major Taylor, the pioneering Black cyclist from Indiana, immediately captivated him and his friends. This core group, then relatively new to serious cycling with less-than-ideal bikes and limited knowledge, became intrigued by a legend previously unknown to them. They decided to tackle the formidable 200-mile TOSRV (Tour of the Ohio Scioto Valley) – a challenging century ride from Columbus down to Portsmouth, Ohio, and back.

Their inaugural journey on that first TOSRV was a raw display of grit and shared resolve. As they rode their 100-mile leg to Portsmouth and then back, they rotated carrying a single, cumbersome 50-pound backpack, laden with all their essential gear. This shared burden, far from deterring them, became the crucible in which their deep friendship was forged. This transformative experience truly ignited their passion and commitment to cycling.

Following that formative ride, and in preparation for their second TOSRV in 1979, these eight visionary founders – George Harper (who would become the club’s first president), Jed Rumora (vice president), Robert Bradley (secretary), John Tolbert (treasurer), along with Bill Willis, Danny Cunningham, John Fuller, and Lloyd Pate – gathered in George Harper’s basement. There, fueled by their shared triumphs and unwavering spirit, they united to form the Major Taylor Cycling Club of Columbus, Ohio. This wasn't just the birth of a new cycling club; it was a historic act. This was the very first club in the world to proudly bear the name Major Taylor Cycling Club, making Columbus home to a groundbreaking movement and setting a precedent for clubs worldwide.

For the first two decades, Columbus truly stood as the undisputed epicenter of the Major Taylor legacy. In a remarkable display of dedication, cyclists from all over the United States flocked there specifically to join this pioneering club. This was an extraordinary feat, especially considering it happened long before social media or the internet existed; it relied solely on word-of-mouth and the powerful inspiration of Major Taylor's story. Many of these members, after joining and riding with the Columbus club, eventually returned to their home cities and states outside of Ohio, where they were inspired to found their own Major Taylor Cycling Clubs, further spreading the champion's name. Even today, some of these former members come back to ride in the annual signature event or the TOSRV, a testament to their enduring connection.

The founding members tirelessly led the club for over 30 years, orchestrating hundreds of rides and cycling events. Their unwavering commitment directly inspired the formation of countless other Major Taylor Cycling Clubs across the country, all sharing a profound pride and admiration for Marshall Walter "Major" Taylor. These gentlemen, who began their journey with a shared backpack and a thirst for the road, became and remain the best of friends. Their bond has endured through countless miles and years, and they often gather outside of cycling whenever opportunity arises. Indeed, the annals of the Major Taylor Cycling Club hold countless stories – more than enough to fill a compelling book about the remarkable things that have transpired.

The Major Taylor Cycling Club of Columbus quickly established its own rich traditions of excellence and community engagement. The TOSRV ride remains a cornerstone, continuing 67 years later as a testament to the club's enduring strength and dedication. As the years passed, their cycling skills flourished, and their knowledge of the sport deepened,

transforming them into formidable riders. Columbus also pioneered the "Grand Masters" distinction, a title lovingly bestowed upon cyclists who reach the age of 65 and demonstrate years of exceptional dedication to the sport. Furthermore, in the early 1990s, Columbus initiated the Major Taylor Cycling Club Youth Ambassadors, a groundbreaking group that fostered a love for cycling across generations by involving family members, their children, and grandchildren.

Impact and Enduring Legacy

For many years, the Major Taylor Cycling Club of Columbus, Ohio, has been synonymous with speed, earning a reputation as a high-speed, pedal-pushing organization. However, it's crucial to emphasize that all cyclists are genuinely welcome, regardless of their starting skill level. In truth, many who initially join as D and C riders often evolve to become proficient A and B riders in the cycling world, thanks to the invaluable experience gained riding with these esteemed cyclists. While the Grand Masters, who can still push impressive distances, now often prefer a more conversational pace on their rides, the club continues to boast dedicated cyclists who embody the very spirit and speed of Marshall "Major" Taylor.

This ensures its vibrant and dynamic character without ever compromising its welcoming ethos.

The club’s influence extends far and wide. They organize their annual signature ride and actively participate in community events whenever called upon, including the annual Ride of Silence. The Major Taylor Cycling Club hosts an annual bike ride for the wider community and has notably hosted several Juneteenth events, demonstrating their commitment to celebrating history and culture.

They’ve also championed social causes, hosting a bike ride during the National Night Out to support "stop the violence" initiatives. Their impact has been recognized far beyond the cycling trails; they've been featured in numerous articles in local and regional publications like The Columbus Dispatch and Columbus Monthly, and PBS has published many stories chronicling their history. For future generations, an archive dedicated to Major Taylor is preserved at the Columbus Public Library, and the Ohio Historical Center will soon be creating a dedicated display for the Major Taylor Cycling Club, solidifying their place in state history. The club has also supported one of the largest cancer bike rides, Pelotonia, showcasing their dedication to broader community welfare. It's a testament to their profound inspiration that many who may not have ridden directly with the Major Taylor Cycling Club have gone on to start their own successful cycling groups, ignited by the spirit they witnessed in Columbus.

The Spirit Rolls On: Recent Achievements and Future Milestones

Even now, the pioneering spirit of the Major Taylor Cycling Club of Columbus shines brightly. As the club approaches its 50th year of "rolling" in 2029, its founders continue to lead by example. Notably, the oldest Major Taylor founder turned 80 in September 2024 – a remarkable milestone. These seasoned cyclists are "still rolling strong," as evidenced by their recent extraordinary adventure: in 2025, several of them embarked on an epic train journey on the Amtrak from Ohio to the Emeryville area of San Francisco, California. They then rode their bikes to the fourth annual Major Taylor International Cycling Alliance convention, held in Los Angeles, California. Demonstrating their enduring prowess, they cycled an impressive 80 miles a day from Emeryville to arrive on the first day of the convention, completing an estimated 350 miles on their bikes! While they may not travel as extensively to distant cycling events as in their early days, they continue to "push and pedal on the trails and streets of Columbus, Ohio." For those in Columbus, the "Grandmaster Roll" ride on Sunday mornings offers a chance to witness these incredible riders firsthand – don't let their age fool you!

Beyond the club's direct efforts, the broader legacy of Major Taylor is also tangible through iconic connections. The Major Taylor Cycling Wear line, for example, was notably started by the late Phil Alloy and his wife, Valerie Alloy, to help carry on Major Taylor's name. Today, Valerie Alloy and her daughter continue to run this venture, ensuring the legacy endures through apparel that honors the champion.

In a fitting tribute to both the legendary cyclist and the club he inspired, Academy Park (also known as Cleo) in Columbus, Ohio, received a dedicated bench and plaque in 2011, honoring Marshall "Major" Taylor and the Major Taylor Cycling Club. This dedication was made by Michael Coleman, the city's first African American Mayor, solidifying their place in Columbus's history.

The Major Taylor Cycling Club of Columbus, Ohio, stands as a testament to vision, perseverance, and community. With a legacy of excellence spanning over four decades since its 1979 founding, they continue to embody the very spirit of the champion they honor, inspiring every cyclist, whether donning the kit or simply hitting the road, to remember and honor this legendary figure.

To stay up to speed with the Major Taylor Cycling Club of Columbus, visit their website:

www.mtcc1979.com

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