The Chesapeake Wheelmen were founded in 1946 making them now the second oldest bicycle club in the United States. The club commemorates the founders by naming the club championship trophies after them. Every fall the Wheelmen host a three race series over three days consisting of a time trial, road race, and a criterium with the highest placing rider in the “A” category being awarded the historic “Lauf-Fuller Trophy”, while the “B” category winner takes home the George “Sandy” Sandruck trophy.

 

The photos are from the estate of George Sandruck, Jr.

 

Art Lauf – born 1921 in Germany, came to the US at 3. Farmer by trade, built houses, father of two girls – Christie and Kathy, married to Millie Lauf. 13 times Maryland State Champion, rode six day races, three times National BAR Champion. Liked hills, rode everyday, could dress and undress on rollers, rode a Harley Davidson motorcycle. Died 1969 of a brain tumor.

 

Clyde Nitz – long time cycling supporter & promoter in the 50’s and 60’s. Still holds the unpaced Baltimore – Philadelphia record. Printer by trade.

 

George Clayton Sandruck, Sr. – ran a bike shop in Baltimore, Maryland, father of George Sandruck.

 

George Sandruck, Jr. – worked as an engineer at Martin Marietta in Baltimore, Maryland. Former district representative, founder and long time officer of the Chesapeake Wheelmen. Died 2000.

 

John & Zay Phillips – parents of Bobby “the Baltimore Bullet” Phillips.

 

To the Sandruck photos

 

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Chesapeake Wheelmen home

 

Chesapeake Wheelmen

P.O. Box 9372
Baltimore, MD 21228