Class 5 Sep/19

Trainers, wearing Dürkopp jerseys, with four cyclists, Golden Gate Park Polo Field, San Francisco 1939
black-and-white photograph
Courtesy of American Cyclery Collection, San Francisco
R2012.3701.004

On September 19, we presented the evidence we collected from the Panhandle and then we explored further west in the Golden Gate Park. We rode all the way to the Polo Field. It was a long ride. I tried to keep my speed slowlier than usual because I wanted to enjoy the views and just wanted to kinda have a slow day.

There was not much going on that day, so I wasn’t really impressed by the field. But after I went home and looked at some pictures, I soon became interested in it. Maybe because I’m a photography fan.

Here are a few photos from the 1930s – 1950s. You can find more information at SFO Museum. Enjoy.

Getting set for the final sprint, Golden Gate Park Polo Field, San Francisco late 1940s
black-and-white photograph
Courtesy of American Cyclery Collection, San Francisco
R2012.3701.005

Gus Gatto, in second place, is racing at full speed for the matched sprint. The approximate speed of the riders is 35 mph.

Riders jockey for position in the final sprint, Golden Gate Park Polo Field San Francisco 1950s
black-and-white photograph
Courtesy of American Cyclery Collection, San Francisco
L2012.3701.007

Vince Gatto is seen in the rear without his helmet.

Starting line-up with trainers, Golden Gate Park Polo Field, San Francisco 1937
black-and-white photograph
Courtesy of American Cyclery Collection, San Francisco
R2012.3701.001

Ken Winkie (far right, wearing a hat) imported Dürkopp bikes and was very active in the San Francisco Bay Area bicycle-racing community in the 1920s–1940s. Lou Rondoni, on the left, was a well-known local rider.