More from the historic Marion, Indiana races.
THE RACE CONTINUES
As featured in H.O.G.™ Magazine Issue 017
Following World War I, the sport of motorcycling was on life support. So when the Motorcycle and Allied Trades Association (predecessor to the AMA) organized a large-scale road race in Marion, Indiana for Labor Day weekend in 1919, no one was sure how it would go – or if anyone would show up. To most everyone’s surprise, the race was a hit.
Its success and that of another race held in Marion in 1920 are supported by additional images to supplement the article featured in the Archives section of HOG™ issue 017.
Photographs courtesy of the Harley-Davidson Motor Company Archives. Copyright H-D®.
1919 – The original Harley-Davidson “Wrecking Crew”.
1919 – Corners were rounded and banked for the race, which was run on existing dirt roads.
1919 – Leslie “Red” Parkhurst and his trademark shock of bright red hair.
1919 – Spectators came from as far away as California, packing the roadsides and local hotels.
1919 – Harley-Davidson took full advantage of the success of its team to promote the Harley-Davidson® brand.
1920 – The “Wrecking Crew,” 1920 version.
1920 – A race official.
1920 – This little piggie, adopted by the team as an unofficial mascot, helped start the practice of associating the word “hog” with Harley-Davidson® motorcycles.
1920 – Another look at the famous photo of Ray Weishaar and his little pig “Johnny.”
