> We are witnessing a new day for this organization. Not only wil
l we
> increasingly be a national presence but, I hope a repository for the
> exhibition and preservation of the vast history of U.S. Cycling and cycli
ng
> in general.
Harking back to the off-topic 1990s, "WORD!"
For those who may be new to the CR list, I and others have directly or indirectly referenced Davis' growing collection of antique bikes, modern machines, and other cycling materials.
The antiques are highlighted by the "Pierce Miller" collection, an amazing group of unrestored gems from the 1800s -- dating back to 1823 by best estimates. The modern bikes include an early Cinelli Laser ridden by Eric Heiden in the '86 season, including the TdF -- and most recently the adding Bearicuda, a 15-foot-long tandem, back-to-back recumbent HPV built by Cal Berkeley students that set a collegiate speed record at 67 mph . And the materials include Frank Berto's commitment to donate his vast archive to the care of UC Davis' "Special Collections" librarians.
Now, add to that the Hall of Fame's collection of primarily 20th Century racing memorabilia and documentation. The two best publicly held bike collections just hooked up. This is gonna be cool.
As Eddie notes, part of the deal was both groups' commitment to be aggressive about preserving the history of cycling. This is the best chance anyone's had to create a single, secure, and academically sound repository of the sport we love. The stuff we already have is just a start.
Also as Eddie notes, CR will hear more from us -- about how you can help. Count on it.
One more thing: Doors open in October (he says, hammering hard on the nearest piece of wood).
Dan ("We did it") Kehew Davis, ("We really did it") California, United States (as in "U.S. Bicycling Hall of Fame")