Rice University has long fostered a vibrant residential college system, cultivating student creativity, deep-rooted pride, and enduring camaraderie that extends to alumni across the globe. For decades, the exhilarating Beer Bike competition has stood as a prime example of this unique college spirit, captivating both current students and returning alumni. The Association of Rice Alumni proudly hosts the Alumni Tent, welcoming the entire Rice community to join in the celebration of this beloved tradition.
What is the Beer Bike Tradition?
Originating in 1957, Beer Bike is a thrilling blend of an intramural bicycle race and a spirited drinking competition. Each of Rice’s eleven residential colleges, along with the Graduate Student Association, enthusiastically participates, fielding a men’s team, a women’s team, and a co-ed alumni team. Each team is composed of ten dedicated riders and ten equally vital chuggers.
The race unfolds as a relay, where a team’s designated “chugger” must swiftly consume beer (or water for those under 21 or preferring a non-alcoholic option) before their teammate, the “rider,” can commence their race around the track. As one rider approaches the final curve of their lap, the next “chugger” prepares for their turn in the relay. Men are tasked with chugging 24 ounces of liquid and biking three laps, while women chug 12 ounces and bike two laps. The event is governed by comprehensive guidelines that meticulously detail biking regulations, chugging allowances, and the overall race rules, ensuring fair play and spirited competition.
Adding to the excitement, the week leading up to Beer Bike is known as Willy Week, a period of heightened anticipation and spirited campus pranks, affectionately termed “jacks,” which are a common and eagerly anticipated part of the pre-Beer Bike festivities.
On Beer Bike day itself, the competitive spirit extends beyond the track with two other highly popular and engaging events: the lively water balloon fight and the spirited cheer battle, creating a day packed with fun and tradition.
A Look at Beer Bike History
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The Inaugural Beer Bike: May 1957
The very first Beer Bike saw participation from the four original men’s colleges: Baker, Hanszen, Will Rice, and Wiess. In this initial race, each biker was required to drink an “unspecified” amount of beer mid-lap, adding an extra layer of challenge. Over 500 enthusiastic spectators gathered along the inner loop to witness the birth of this unique Rice tradition.
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Standardized Chug Cans: 1960s
The 1960s marked a period of standardization for the chugging aspect of Beer Bike, with 16-ounce chug cans becoming the norm for men, and chugging times often impressively falling within the three-second range, showcasing the growing competitiveness and skill of the participants.
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Women’s Tea Trike Era: 1960s/1970s
Women’s participation in Beer Bike began in the form of the Tea Trike race. Female students would navigate laps around the loop on tricycles, pausing at designated “pits” to partake in a small amount of Earl Grey tea, offering a unique and gentler counterpart to the men’s beer-focused competition.
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Expansion of the Race: Mid-1970s
As Beer Bike’s popularity surged, the inner loop could no longer contain the event. It was relocated to the East Stadium Parking Lot (now the West Lot), providing more space for participants and spectators. This era also saw the introduction of a parade, adding to the festive atmosphere. Men’s chugging quantities increased to 24 ounces from 16, and women transitioned to full participation in Beer Bike, phasing out the Tea Trike event and embracing the beer (or water) chugging and biking competition alongside their male counterparts.
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Alumni Races Begin: 1980s
The 1980s marked a significant milestone with the introduction of the first-ever alumni races. This addition reflected the growing legacy of Beer Bike and the desire of alumni to remain connected to this cherished tradition. The races overall became increasingly competitive during this decade, with colleges investing in better bikes, developing more sophisticated pit crews, and even designing specialized chug cans to gain a competitive edge.
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A Dedicated Track: Late-1980s
Reflecting the event’s established importance, a dedicated track was constructed in the West Stadium Parking Lot (now the Greenbriar Lot). Bleachers were installed to accommodate the growing number of spectators, enhancing the viewing experience. This area was formally named Hackerman Field, honoring the university president and his support for this unique event.
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The Water Balloon Fight Tradition: Early 1990s
A spontaneous act by a few students in the early 1990s evolved into an integral part of Beer Bike. The water balloon fight began as a bit of playful disruption during the parade but quickly gained traction and became an anticipated tradition within the tradition.
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Official Recognition of the Water Balloon Fight: 2011
In 2011, the water balloon fight was officially integrated into the Beer Bike schedule, recognized as a legitimate and fun part of the day’s festivities, kicking off the Beer Bike celebrations and adding to the day’s lighthearted and spirited atmosphere.
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Beer Bike Cancelled: 2020
The unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 forced the cancellation of Beer Bike for the first time in its 64-year history. This marked a somber moment, highlighting the event’s long-standing presence in Rice tradition and the disruption caused by the global health crisis.
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The Triumphant Return: 2022
Following an altered program in 2021, Beer Bike made a triumphant return to its full, pre-pandemic structure in 2022. This return was met with widespread enthusiasm, signifying the resilience of Rice traditions and the community’s eagerness to reconnect with beloved campus events.
Timeline content courtesy of the Rice Thresher.
