Arthur Markham (cyclist)

Arthur Markham (b. ?, d. 19 June 1917) won what is said to be the first formal cycle race held in Britain. It was in a meadow at Brent Reservoir, known locally as the Welsh Harp, in north-west London on Whitsun Monday, 1 June 1868. [ Cycling Record, UK, 1968 ] Markham received a silver cup from the licensee of the Old Welsh Harp Hotel, William Perkins Warner, who had sponsored the race. [ Firth, Malcolm www.abcc.co.uk/Articles/bikeevolve.html retrieved 5 September 2008 ] [www.hadas.org.uk/wiki/index.php?title=Newsletter_415_October_2005&printable=yes ] . In another source, Warner is named as Jack. [ Ritchie, Andrew (1999)), The Origins of Bicycle Racing in England: Technology, Entertainment, Sponsorship and Advertising in the Early History of the Sport, Strathclyde University, UK ]

Markham opened a bicycle shop at nearby 345 Edgware Road in 1872. He had another in Station Approach, Shepherds Bush, London.

The race was held the day after what is often referred to as the world's first race, in the park at St Cloud west of Paris. It was won by another Englishman, James Moore. His grandson, John, believes Moore is buried near the reservoir. [ Procycling UK p107]

Markham used his winnings to take a coach to Bath where on 27 June 1868 he took part in another race and beat a rider called Abrahams, considered the favourite. [ Cycling Record, UK, 1968 ] Markham was a strong swimmer and saved a man from drowning in the river Avon, although it's not clear if this was on the same trip. The Royal Humane Society awarded him a parchment in recognition of his bravery, on 21 October 1868. [ Cycling Record, UK, 1968 ]

Markham has also been described as a professional runner.

Markham's son, A. G. Markham, broke the Road Records Association unpaced tricycle record for 100 miles with 5h 57m 22s in 1903. He was captain of the Bath Road Club in west London.