After a complete search of her family tree, it became apparent why Eileen is so good on the bicycle. Apparently Eileen's ancestors were some of the original members of the local Gymnacyclidium, circa 1869. Roads weren't the greatest between Spencerport and Rochester back then. Imagine riding the bike pictured above fifteen miles to a cycling class or race being held in downtown Rochester!
People think it is tough to learn riding with clipless pedals nowadays. They are nothing compared to falling off one of these bikes. I've heard downhills were especially treacherous. Rumor has it Eileen's Great-Great-Great Uncles and Aunts flew down Gillett hill (which was a dirt road until about 1970) with ease. During the annual Spencerport carnival, Velocipede races were held and Eileen's family won fifteen years in a row, in the men's and women's divisions.
The family had unique training techniques, including attaching tow ropes to the Velocipedes and pulling barges along the canal path from Spencerport to Brockport.
So, if you see Eileen flying along the country roads, you'll know that it's a genetic gift and hard training that makes her so good.
As a matter of fact, I think that might be my Great-Great-Great-Aunt Bridget and Great-Great-Great Uncle Patrick featured on the poster.
ReplyDeleteYup,cycling's in the Coffey blood. We'll find out when I make the big move to clipless shoes(now, that doesn't really make sense...they are shoes with clips)this season!
I do love family history...