Ruff and Tumble: The Extraordinary Life of Lucy Gilmore, America's First Female Professional Cyclist

Ruff and Tumble

by Lucy Gilmore

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2199 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	314 pages
Hardcover	:	518 pages
Item Weight	:	1.98 pounds
Dimensions	:	6.14 x 1.13 x 9.21 inches

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Lucy Gilmore was a remarkable woman who defied societal norms and became America's first female professional cyclist. In a time when women were discouraged from participating in sports, Gilmore pursued her passion with determination and resilience. Her story is an inspiring tale of female empowerment and the pursuit of dreams.

Early Life and Influences

Lucy Gilmore was born on December 10, 1865, in Potsdam, New York. Her father was a farmer and her mother was a homemaker. Gilmore grew up in a family where physical activity was valued, and she developed a love of the outdoors and sports at a young age.

Gilmore was particularly drawn to cycling. She began riding a bicycle at the age of 12, and quickly became proficient. She would often ride for hours, exploring the countryside around her home.

Cycling Career

In the late 1800s, cycling was a popular sport in the United States. However, it was not considered a suitable activity for women. Women were expected to be demure and feminine, and cycling was seen as being too strenuous and unladylike.

Undeterred, Gilmore decided to pursue her dream of becoming a professional cyclist. In 1894, she entered her first race, the six-day Boston-to-New York Road Race. She was the only woman to compete in the race, and she finished 12th out of 19 riders.

Gilmore's performance in the Boston-to-New York Road Race caused a sensation. She proved that women were capable of competing in cycling, and she inspired other women to take up the sport.

Over the next several years, Gilmore competed in dozens of races, including the World Cycling Championships in Europe. She became one of the most successful female cyclists in the world.

Retirement and Legacy

Gilmore retired from professional cycling in 1901. She continued to ride for recreation, and she remained an active advocate for women's sports.

Gilmore's legacy is her role as a pioneer for women's cycling. She paved the way for future generations of female athletes, and she showed that women are capable of achieving great things in sports and other areas of life.

Lucy Gilmore was a remarkable woman who defied societal norms and achieved great things in a time when women were discouraged from participating in sports. Her story is an inspiring example of female empowerment and the pursuit of dreams.

Gilmore's legacy continues to inspire women around the world. She is a reminder that anything is possible, and that women should never be limited by their gender.