Inducted in 1994 for Veteran Road & Track Competitor (Pre-1945)

Biography:

Born in 1908, Willie started his racing career in the junior ranks in 1923. He won the 1924 ABL of A Junior National Championships. As a pro, he represented the US in European events from 1930 to 1935. He was the first to wear the “stars and stripes” jersey that, to this day, designates a US National Champion. His other contributions to cycling include pioneering the use of helmets, promoting races, assisting with the management of the Encino, CA Velodrome and writing a book, AMERICAN VELODROME TRACK RACING in 1976.