Page:The fastest bicycle rider in the world - 1928 - Taylor.djvu/49

 I quote from a Metropolitan newspaper: "There is a grave question as to who is champion cyclist of America for the season of 1898. Is it Eddie Bald, who from the League tables was leading when the professionals seceded from the League practically as a walk-over, or Arthur Gardiner who won more firsts at National Circuit Meets than any other rider, or Owen Kimble, whose points under the L. A. W. and other outlaw organizations makes the largest total, or is it Major Taylor who in all classes or races throughout the season scored the greatest number of victories?

"A table has been compiled by Charles M. Mears, the Ohio State Handicap official, showing the net results of the efforts of all the riders, and according to it Major Taylor is the most logical one to have the honor of being called the Champion of America for the year of 1898. This table shows the number of times that each rider has won first, second and third place in any race either on the National Circuit or under the outlaw jurisdiction. This table simply counts firsts, seconds and thirds, figuring four points, two points, and one point respectively for the place, which is the system which is mathematically just.

"According to this calculation Major Taylor heads the list, and thereby wins the title of Champion of America after the table: