[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 73 (Tuesday, June 9, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1073]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                IN HONOR OF MARSHALL W. ``MAJOR'' TAYLOR

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. JAMES P. McGOVERN

                            of massachusetts

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 9, 1998

  Mr. McGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor Marshall W. 
``Major'' Taylor, a championed cyclist during the late 1800s and early 
1900s, for his unyielding perseverance and strength in the face of 
discrimination.
  In recognition of his excellence in the sport of racing and his 
personal struggle for justice and equality, the Seven Hills Wheelman 
bicycle club of Worcester renamed its annual 100-mile ride the Major 
Taylor Century. I stand before you today to pay tribute to an 
outstanding athlete and admirable citizen.
  In spite of widespread racism, the ``Worcester Whirlwind,'' as he was 
nicknamed by his fans, valiantly pursued his passion for cycling. 
Taylor endured threats and physical assaults, yet rose to excellence in 
defiance of Jim Crow segregation laws that permeated the country as 
well as the sport of cycling.
  In 1900, Taylor won the American sprint championship race, ultimately 
proving that hard work and perseverance can have glorious rewards.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to take a moment to join me in 
honoring Major Taylor for his athletic ability and his sportsmanship in 
the face of intolerance.

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