Another activity at Purdue is the tricycle race. It takes place at the beginning of the academic year. Contestants come from the residence halls of the Cary Quadrangle. There are six halls A, B, C, D, East and West. The tricycles consist of a standard bicycle with the front wheel replaced by two smaller wheels. The course is a makeshift course that includes going around the Purdue fountain. To the best of my memory each team had five riders who switched off as they tired.
I don’t remember there being any prize except macho and pride. The whole atmosphere was kind of rowdy with taunts and cheers from the crowd.
We had several practices to learn how to switch riders without losing time. I eagerly joined the team looking forward to a lot of fun.
When the day arrived, we were there with our steed. I was amazed at the size of the crowd. We rode our little hearts out, but didn’t win.
This crazy competition is still run to this day.
