I know that a good many champions have entertained the thought that the more they discourage youngsters, the longer they would reign. However, this theory never impressed me, and I always made it a point to give youths the benefit of my experience in bicycle racing.

In a word I was a pioneer, and therefore had to blaze my own trail.

I would advise all youths aspiring to athletic fame or a professional career to practice clean living, fair play and good sportsmanship.

Clean living is the cardinal principle in the lives of the world's greatest athletes, as the phenomenal performances of these outstanding characters will obviously show.

I have also noticed that when a rider who had confidence in his ability was defeated, after doing his level best to win, always received an ovation from the gathering.

I pray they will carry on in spite of that dreadful monster prejudice, and with patience, courage, fortitude and perseverance achieve success for themselves.

Each great athlete must some day bow to that perennial old champion, Father Time, even as I, for Time eventually wins.