Worcester, MA – Whirlwind, a film documentary in the making about the life and career of Marshall Major Taylor, is set to release its concept trailer on November 26; which happens to be Taylor’s birthday.
This historical, groundbreaking documentary aims to explore in depth the life and times of the first African American world bicycle champion Major Taylor.
Melanie Morris , founder of the Yellow Jacket Cycling Group on the film set of ''Whirldwind''
More than a hundred years ago, when bicycle races drew crowds that filled Madison Square Garden, the biggest draw of all was Major Taylor. As a superstar athlete in the most popular sport of his era, 1899 world bicycling champion Major Taylor saw his racing victories well chronicled in mainstream newspapers as well as cycling publications. Throughout his career, Major Taylor had embodied the role carved out for him by promoters, the press, and the fans, who fed off each other’s desires for drama and dollars. ‘’The Black Cyclone’’ was allowed on the starting line because of his exceptional talent, but he was constantly reminded, on and off the bike—as a Black American--of his place in the racial order.
Behind The Scene ''Whirlwind'' filming /Photo Credit : Emma Helstrom
He could compete against white riders as long as he didn’t act “uppity’’. White race promoters and competitors made it clear that his elite position was not to be used as a platform to overtly demand that equality be extended to other members of his race. Taylor had to contend with a balancing act familiar to Black athletes in America before and since. The backlash against football player Colin Kaepernick taking a knee during the national anthem, as well as controversies related to NBA and WNBA player support of Black Lives Matter, attest to ongoing disputes about Black athletes who take a stand against racial injustice.
Behind The Scene ''Whirlwind'' filming /Photo Credit : Emma Helstrom
In a post-Civil War era governed by Jim Crow laws in the South and overt racism nationwide,Major Taylor managed to be the first Black champion of the world in cycling and one of the first black world champions in any sport... His fame grew not only in America but in Europe and Australia as newspapers around the world reported his triumphs. The Boston Globe labeled him ‘’The World Beater’’ in a headline in August 1899.
We plan to produce a feature documentary film for national and international broadcast on the life and times of Major Taylor. The film will be a compelling combination of rare archival material, reenactments, and interviews with scholars, writers, bicycle historians and prominent athletes.
Private screening of the Trailer Concept of ''Whirlwind'' at the Major Taylor Museum in Worcester Mass
The film is directed by independent documentary filmmaker Cyrille Vincent, and Professor Janette Thomas Greenwood, PhD, of Clark University’s History Department will serve as chief historical advisor. A panel of other humanities scholars from universities, associations and research centers around the country will serve as advisors as well.
“There is a significance in keeping Major Taylor’s story and legacy alive as American History. We need to do something and show people something. If they see, they might understand easier.” said Cyrille Vincent, director and executive producer of the documentary. “It’s very exciting when you come in with the perspective of Major Taylor in mind. He was always optimistic and strategic about everything.”
Cyrille Vincent, Director and Executive producer of ''Whirlwind'' addressing supporters and ambassadors of the film.
In addition to watching the concept trailer, you can donate and contribute to the project at https://www.worcesterwhirlwind.com/pay-it-foward-whirlwind-film-documentary.
Don't miss out , follow the film process by subscribing to our mailing list at:https://www.worcesterwhirlwind.com/
Upcoming Events dates:
*Ambassador's Trailer Preview Party.
Whirlwind film documentary ambassadors get everything first ; that's why we have put together two preview sessions/Virtual parties to preview and discuss about the trailer with our ambassadors before it is release to the public.
When : Wednesday 23rd @12:00pm EST & Friday 25th @4:00pm EST:
Location : Zoom (ambassadors receive meeting link in their email )
If you are not an ambassador yet , you can still register at :https://www.worcesterwhirlwind.com/ambassador
*Major Taylor Birthday Meet.
Let's sing happy birthday all together to Major Taylor and share some stories right by his sculpture in front of the Worcester Public Library. We will have Special gifts for the first 20 people to arrive on site .
When: November 26th (Major Taylor's Birthday)
Location : 3 Salem Street , Worcester-MA
Time : 12:00-1:00 pm
Free Registration at : https://www.worcesterwhirlwind.com/event-details/major-taylor-birthday-meet-1
Credits & References:
Lynne Tolman