INDIANAPOLIS — Hundreds of cyclists took over the streets of Indianapolis on Saturday to honor a cycling legend.
IU Health Momentum Indy sponsored the ride as a way to honor Walter "Major" Taylor.
Taylor was an Indianapolis-born professional cyclist who is considered one of the greatest sprinters the sport has ever seen. He won multiple national championships throughout his career, but even today, few know of his legacy.
His legacy doesn't end at his championships. Taylor, who was Black, faced discrimination throughout his career. He raced during the early 1900s, when racism and racial discrimination was rampant throughout the United States. He was only the second Black world champion in any sport.
"During his time when he was riding in the early 1900s, he faced a lot of racism," said Jennifer Cvar, executive director of Momentum Indy. "We want to honor what he did and how he handled himself with grace and class."
The event featured three different distances so riders of all skill levels could participate.