Racing on a Penny Farthing

← Back to Blogs

There’s something undeniably special about the charm, camaraderie, and clatter of a highwheel gathering – and the 2025 Belgian Highwheel event delivered all that and more. Held over a packed weekend in early summer, it was a brilliant blend of nostalgia, athleticism, and good humour. I had the pleasure of joining dozens of other riders from across Europe, all drawn by the magnetic appeal of big wheels, old-school racing, and the warm welcome of the League of Ordinary Riders.

Friday: Rolling In and Warming Up
Things kicked off Friday afternoon with a social ride – the perfect icebreaker. At 2pm, we gathered at the campsite in Beveren, mounts at the ready and spirits high. The ride itself wound us through scenic countryside, the gentle whir of solid rubber tyres on tarmac punctuated by laughter and the occasional friendly heckle. By the time we rolled back in around 5:30, we’d already bonded over gears, pedal choices, and “that one hill.”

Dinner was served at 6:30 – hearty and filling – and set the tone for a weekend of great food and better company. That night, the campsite buzzed with energy, a village of enthusiasts under canvas and stars.

Saturday: Wildert Races and the 24-Hour Madness
An early breakfast and we were off to Wildert for a full day of racing. After a short reconnaissance lap and briefing, the first preliminary round was underway at 11:00. The competition was fierce but friendly, a healthy mix of finely tuned racers and passionate amateurs. It’s always amazing how different highwheels can be – from gleaming museum-quality machines to rugged modern interpretations.

The afternoon saw the beginning of the infamous “24 Hours of Wildert”. Now, I must confess – I didn’t sign up to ride the full 24 hours (I like my sleep!) – but watching those who did was both inspiring and slightly mad. There’s a special kind of grit among those riders, looping round and round, hour after hour.

At 5:30 we returned to the campsite for one of Belgium’s finest exports: stew and fries. Simple, satisfying, and best eaten surrounded by tired but happy riders recounting the day’s highlights.

Sunday: Into Antwerp
Sunday morning came early, with breakfast served from 6:30. By 8:30 we were rolling again, this time heading as a group into Antwerp. A picturesque ferry crossing brought us to Steenplein, then it was on to the final racecourse in the city park. After the usual safety recon and briefing, the final event kicked off at 10:30.

The route through Antwerp was stunning – a mix of cobbles, smooth roads, and curious onlookers cheering us on. It’s not every day you see a convoy of highwheelers gliding through a modern city.

After the final awards ceremony at 2:00, many of us lingered. There was talk of “just one more drink,” exchanging contact details, and promises to meet again next year – the kind of stuff that makes these weekends more than just races.

Reflections
The Belgian Highwheel event isn’t just about vintage bicycles – it’s about community. Whether you’re there to race, ride, or simply revel in the spectacle, everyone’s made to feel welcome. Hats off to the organisers, volunteers, and riders who made it all happen. I left with tired legs, a full heart, and a renewed love for the big wheel.

If you’ve ever been tempted to dust off that old penny farthing or just want to see what all the fuss is about, I can’t recommend this event enough.

See you next year – maybe even on the start line?