Louis Rigolly Breaks Land Speed Record
July 21st, 1904
July 21st, 1904

How Long Ago?
120 years, 7 months, 22 days ago
Location
Ostend, Belgium
Category
Sports & Recreation
People
- Louis Rigolly
Links & References
Tags
Louis Rigolly Breaks Land Speed Record
Louis Rigolly drove a 15-liter Gobron-Brillié in Ostend, Belgium, achieving a ground-breaking speed of over 100 mph (161 km/h). This momentous occasion marked a significant milestone in automotive history, showcasing the advancements in engineering and the pursuit of speed. The achievement resonated well beyond the racing community, as it inspired future innovations in vehicle performance. Onlookers gathered to witness this historic feat of speed that highlighted not only Rigolly's skill as a driver but also the ingenuity of early automobile technology.
First driver to surpass 100 mph on land
Used a powerful 15-liter Gobron-Brillié
Achieved speed of 103.56 mph in Ostend
Inspired future racing and automotive innovations
What Happened?
In a remarkable demonstration of speed and engineering prowess, Louis Rigolly, a French racing driver, made history in Ostend, Belgium, by becoming the first person to drive a vehicle over the 100 mph barrier on land. Piloting a monstrous 15-liter Gobron-Brillié, Rigolly reached an astonishing speed of 103.56 mph (166.03 km/h). This event took place during a series of competition trials aimed at pushing the limits of automotive performance. The Gobron-Brillié, a vehicle renowned for its powerful engine and advanced design, showcased the technological advancements of the early 20th century in motor vehicles. The feat was witnessed by numerous spectators, highlighting the growing popularity of speed racing as a spectator sport. It represented not just a personal triumph for Rigolly but also a testament to the evolving capabilities of automotive engineering during that era.
As Rigolly sped down the Ostend track, his achievement echoed across Europe as a symbol of human determination and innovation. Such advancements captured the imagination of the public and spurred manufacturers to invest in performance technology, ultimately leading to the development of faster and more reliable vehicles. The achievement initiated a competitive race among inventors and automotive engineers to break speed records, driving improvements in design and safety features in cars.
Rigolly’s record broke barriers that were previously thought insurmountable. It served as a significant motivational factor for other racers, encouraging them to dream bigger and aim for higher speeds. The reaction from the crowd underscored the excitement surrounding the automotive revolution, reflecting a shift in societal attitudes towards cars and motorsport, further embedding racing into mainstream culture.
Why Does it Matter?
The achievement of breaking the 100 mph barrier had profound effects on both the automotive industry and motorsport. It marked a pivotal moment in the transition of automobiles from mere transportation devices to symbols of speed, power, and luxury. This accomplishment fueled public interest in automotive developments and competitions, positioning automobile racing as a serious sport and captivating audiences across Europe and beyond.
Discover More Historic Events from July 21st
Biden Withdraws from 2024 Presidential Race
US President Joe Biden announced he will not seek re-election in 2024, citing a desire to focus on personal health and family commitments. This unexpected decision shocked many political analysts and supporters. The announcement came during a press conference in Washington, D.C. Biden expressed his gratitude for the support he received during his term and encouraged the Democratic Party to rally behind a strong candidate for the upcoming election.
Continue ReadingBarbenheimer Craze Captivates Cinema Fans
The simultaneous release of Greta Gerwig's 'Barbie' and Christopher Nolan's 'Oppenheimer' on the same day sparked an unexpected cultural phenomenon. Rather than pitting the two wholly different films against each other, audiences embraced them both in an informal double feature experience. This unique occurrence became a social media sensation, with fans dressing up in themes relevant to both films, creating an unprecedented collective cinematic event that celebrated the diversity of film genres.
Continue ReadingYuen Long Attack: Civilian Assault in Hong Kong
On a summer night, masked men, believed to be linked to triads, assaulted civilians in Yuen Long, Hong Kong. The victims were primarily returning from a peaceful anti-extradition bill protest in nearby areas. The attackers indiscriminately beat individuals, leading to numerous injuries. Reports emerged that police arrived late and were criticized for inaction during the violence.
Continue ReadingErden Eruç's Historic Solo Journey
Erden Eruç completed the world's first solo human-powered circumnavigation on July 21, 2012, after an inspiring journey that began in 2007. Departing from the United States, Eruç traversed diverse terrains across multiple continents, utilizing a kayak, bicycle, and on foot. His adventure took him through various countries, showcasing the challenges and triumphs of human-powered travel. The journey highlighted Eruç's determination to raise awareness about environmental issues and inspire others to pursue their passions, culminating in his arrival back to where he began, completing a remarkable feat of endurance and exploration.
Continue ReadingEnd of NASA's Space Shuttle Program
Space Shuttle Atlantis concluded NASA's Space Shuttle program with its final landing at Kennedy Space Center after mission STS-135. This mission marked the end of an era for human spaceflight in low Earth orbit, symbolizing a significant transition in America's approach to space exploration and highlighting the achievements of 30 years of shuttle flights. Atlantis carried supplies and equipment to the International Space Station, demonstrating both the success and future possibilities of international aerospace collaboration.
Continue ReadingBarack Obama Signs Dodd-Frank Act into Law
President Barack Obama signed the Dodd–Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act in a ceremony aimed at reshaping financial regulation. This landmark legislation aimed to prevent the kind of financial crisis experienced in 2008 by implementing comprehensive reforms in the financial industry. The signing took place at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center in Washington, D.C., symbolizing a significant shift towards more stringent oversight of financial institutions. Among its numerous provisions were measures to protect consumers and rein in excessive risk-taking by banks and financial firms.
Continue Reading