Marion, Indiana Gears Up for the Race of the Century
In the summer of 1919, excitement filled the air in Marion, Indiana, as preparations for one of the biggest motorcycle races in history were underway. Published in Motorcycling and Bicycling on July 9, 1919, an article titled Big Mid-Summer Events Being Planned for Marion, Indiana captured the energy and anticipation surrounding what would become the International World’s Championship Road Race.
An Unprecedented Event in the Heart of Indiana
Marion had never hosted an event of this scale before, and the local business community was stepping up to the challenge. The newly-formed Grant County Speedway Association took charge of planning, selling stock to fund the race, and seeking out top-tier promoters to ensure its success. With shares of stock selling at $10 each, the association’s goal was to establish Marion as a premier destination for motorcycle racing.
The Perfect Speedway for High-Speed Thrills
The five-mile road course set the stage for record-breaking speeds. Its long, straight stretches were compared to a tabletop—smooth and primed for high performance. Though the sharp, square corners posed a challenge, widening and banking the turns by two to three feet allowed professional racers to maintain speeds of 35 miles per hour on the curves. With further improvements, the course was expected to be in A-1 condition for one of the fastest road races of its time.
A grandstand was planned along the eastern stretch, providing spectators a clear view of the thrilling action. The city anticipated a massive influx of visitors, with excitement spreading beyond Indiana to the entire central Midwest.
The Race to Watch: Harley-Davidson Enters the Competition
One of the biggest headlines leading up to the race was the entry of the Harley-Davidson factory team. This powerhouse lineup of riders had already made a name for themselves in the racing world, particularly at the 200-mile National Championship Race at Ascot Park in Los Angeles.
Harley-Davidson’s 1919 Team Lineup:
Ralph Hepburn – Los Angeles, CA
Leslie Parkhurst – Milwaukee, WI
Ray Weishaar – Bridgeport, CT
Albert Burns – San Francisco, CA
Maldwyn Jones – Lebanon, OH
These riders were among the best in the sport, with Maldwyn Jones boasting an incredible record—47 wins out of 51 races. With talent like this on the starting line, the International Road Championship promised to be a spectacle like no other.
A Legacy in the Making
The first-ever International World’s Championship Road Race in Marion was more than just a competition—it was a moment that put the city on the map in the motorcycle world. The roaring engines, the rush of wind, and the sheer determination of these riders solidified Marion’s place in motorcycling history.
Celebrate Marion’s Motorcycle Legacy
Visit our Home of the Hog: Marion’s Motorcycle Legacy exhibit at the History Center at the Marion Public Library, which is located at 600 South Washington Street, Marion, IN. Whether you’re a lifelong motorcycling fan or just curious about Marion’s history, this exhibit is sure to satisfy.
Contact Information
For more details, to share memorabilia, or inquire about the exhibit, reach out to IMPS through:
- Donate to our Endowment
- Shop Our Merchandise
- Contact Our Members: info@indianamps.org
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Let’s keep the legacy alive—together.