Join us every Monday at 6pm at the Water Works Amphitheater.
Who:
MTIA Weekly Monday Night Signature Ride
What:
Casual 16-17 mile loop bike ride that goes around Water Works Park, Gray’s Lake and downtown Des Moines where we will take the Inter-Urban trestle, up into the Beaverdale neighborhood and drop back onto the trail. Route includes trail, some roads and neighborhoods. It is predicted we would average 12-16 mph. This is dependent on the attendees.
When:
Every Monday at 6pm
Probably a good idea to bring lights!
Weather cancelations will be posted on the MTIA Facebook page. Please make sure you join it so you won’t miss them!
Where:
Waterworks Park Lauridsen Amphitheater
2251 George Flagg Pkwy, Des Moines. We will gather near the restroom area.
Why:
MTIA is the first Major Taylor cycling club in Iowa. There are Major Taylor cycling clubs all over the world and to my knowledge, we are the only cycling club EVER to be named after a cyclist. We are excited to see this club established in Iowa.
Marshall Walter “Major” Taylor was an amazingly talented black athlete from 1878-1932. He was most likely given his nickname “Major” because of his military style clothing he wore as he entertained and performed bike stunts outside his local bike shop in Indianapolis. These performances launched him into becoming the cycling legend known today. He cycled on a track, was a professional road racer, did distance and sprints. The Worcester Whirlwind, as he was also affectionately called, set numerous world records and won both World and National championships all while fighting harsh and cruel racism. Even through such hatred, he, along with those that came alongside him, paved the way for future black athletes, he became the second black world champion in any sport! Even though few know his name, it doesn’t diminish that he was one of the greatest cyclists of his time and his story continues to inspire those that hear it. Through his story and our club we hope to advocate for black cyclists by cultivating a supportive community of like minded cyclists that build up, encourage equity and spark passion for the sport of cycling so it can be more accessible regardless of socioeconomic background, ethnicity, or experience level.
We post unique ride dates and times every week and hope you will come ride* with us!
*Must sign a liability waiver before joining any Major Taylor ride.