Mary Jane Reoch facts for kids

Mary Jane Reoch (born January 2, 1945 – died September 11, 1993) was an amazing American cyclist. She won many important races and became a national champion 11 times! After her racing days, she became a cycling coach, helping other athletes get better. Mary Jane was honored for her achievements by being added to the United States Bicycling Hall of Fame after her death in 1994.

A Champion Cyclist's Journey

Mary Jane Reoch was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on January 2, 1945. She started cycling and racing when she was in her mid-twenties. This was a bit later than some athletes, but she quickly became very good!

Winning National Championships

Throughout the 1970s and early 1980s, Mary Jane won 11 national championships in different cycling events. She was also part of the world championship team 9 times. This means she was one of the best cyclists in the world!

Here are some of her big wins:

• She won the National Track Championship 7 times between 1973 and 1980.
• She won the National Time Trial Championship in 1975.
• She also placed second or third many times in these races.
• At the Belgium World Track Championships in 1975, she came in second place in the 3-kilometer pursuit race.
• In 1976, she earned third place in the 3-kilometer pursuit at the Italy World Track Championships.
• Mary Jane also won local races like the Tour of Somerville in 1976 and the Fitchburg Longsjo Classic in 1979.

Coaching Other Cyclists

In 1977, Mary Jane started working as a cycling coach. For about 15 years, she helped many people and teams improve their cycling skills. She is especially famous for coaching Connie Carpenter. Connie went on to win a gold medal at the 1984 Summer Olympics, which was a huge achievement!

Mary Jane's Family Life

Mary Jane Reoch was also a mother. When she was 35 years old, she rode her bike 12 miles to the hospital to give birth to her first daughter, Solange. She was married to John Reoch, who was a lawyer. The family later moved to Dallas, Texas.

Remembering Mary Jane Reoch

Mary Jane Reoch passed away on September 11, 1993, after a road accident. She was training a cycling student near White Rock Lake in Dallas when the accident happened.

Posthumous Honors and Awards

Mary Jane's amazing contributions to cycling were not forgotten.

• In 1994, she was honored by being added to the United States Bicycling Hall of Fame. This is a very special award for top cyclists.
• Fuji Bikes, a well-known bicycle company, created an award in her memory. It's called the Miji Reoch Award. This award is given every year to "the best young female rider under the age of 23" and includes a $1,000 prize. It helps support new talent in cycling, just as Mary Jane did.