High Wheel Race returns to Downtown Frederick

FREDERICK, Md. ( DC News Now ) — A one-of-a-kind event is happening this weekend in Downtown Frederick, Maryland.

“What makes this race unique is that one: the bikes are unique and there are no other races like this in the United States,” said Eric Rhodes, race co-director.

The bikes are very unique, they have a large wheel in the front and a smaller one in the back. Rhodes said in the U.S. these bikes are called “High Wheels.”

“The correct term is Penny Farthing. That originated when these bikes were created in the 1880s in England and people related to the different size coins… a penny and a farthing,” explained Rhodes.

On July 13, you will see these bikes riding through Downtown Frederick in the National Clustered Spires High Wheel Race . Race co-director, Jeanne Rhodes said the event is in its 10th year and it gets bigger and better every year.

“I think our event really created a revival of this bicycle. In our first year we had 25 racers and this year we have 65 registered racers,” said Jeanne Rhodes.

Racers are coming from across the U.S. and even as far away as Belgium to participate in the event.

For more information, visit the High Wheel Race website .

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