Land speed record-holder speaks to Rotary Club
BY CHARLOTTE SMITH Editor

Photo/Charlotte Smith Gerald Jessup shows off the bike he rode to set the land speed record at Bonneville, Utah, in September. Jessup was the program speaker at Tuesday's meeting of the Rotary Club in Troup. Pictured with Jessup (second from right) are Rotary member Gene Whitsell, guest Sherman Williams and Rotary director Ronnie Fix.

Gerald Jessup believes time flies when you're having fun.

Of course, his idea of having fun involves riding motorcycles at speeds well above normal limits, so it's no wonder he appreciates that philosophy.

The 71-year-old world land speed record-holder was on hand to share his experiences with the Troup Rotary Club Tuesday at the group's regular monthly meeting.

Rotary director Ronnie Fix introduced Jessup, who grew up in the Flint area and is a longtime motorcyle racer.

Fix traveled to Bonneville, Utah, in September and watched as his old friend set a record racing on the area's famed Salt Flats region.

"I'm a little disappointed with it," admits Jessup. "I didn't just want to bend the record, I wanted to really break it."

Jessup bested the previous record of 76 miles per hour with an 86.8425 mark, an average of two times.

Jessup explained that he rode a five-mile course, and the third mile is the one that counts. After completing the course, the riders bikes are impounded and inspecting for any tinkering or prohibited adjustments.

Following that, the riders make the five-mile return trip and the third mile is timed again.

Riding his 42 horsepower 1951 Triumph T100, Jessup scored 100.112 mph on the first trip and a disappointing 73.826 on the return.

In addition to some mechanical problems he encountered, Jessup told the Troup Rotarians, "You don't really know what you're doing at first. I made a lot of mistakes. But when I go next year, I'll know what to do."

The determination Jessup shows in wanting to compete again was instrumental in getting him to the competition in the first place.

The survivor of cancer and a stroke, as well as some serious riding injuries, Jessup said he had "signed an affidavit that I would never race again."

Before he could face the Utah competition, he had to face his wife. "I toldher this isn't really a race, it's just you on a timed course," he explained. "She told me I would still find a way to get hurt."

Jessup returned without injury and with the record and said he was grateful for the support he had received. A group of about 20-25 Tyler area citizens made the trip to Utah.

Ending his presentation, Jessup told the Rotarians that he would return next year after he set a faster record.

In other business, Rotary members and guests were encouraged to participate in Tuesday's blood drive.

Principal Derek Driver and leadership students Adam Voigt, Drew Marshall and Casey Sanford were also welcomed.