Harry Leary’s Tangent Beanie - Smells like Harry
Hats
Linda Leary
Tangent Products Beanie (“Smells Like Harry”)
This Tangent Products beanie belonged to BMX pioneer Harry Leary and was donated to the Lititz BMX Archive by his sister, Linda Leary Taylor. As a personal item worn by Leary outside of formal racing equipment, the beanie represents a more intimate connection to the individual behind the legendary “Scary Harry” racing persona.
Throughout his life, Leary maintained close ties to the BMX industry even after the peak of his professional racing career. Companies such as Tangent Products continued to support riders and events within the BMX community, and apparel like this beanie reflects those ongoing connections between longtime racers and the brands that remained active in the sport.
Personal artifacts such as this item provide an uncommon glimpse into the everyday life of a BMX pioneer. Within the Lititz BMX Archive, the beanie serves as a small but meaningful reminder that the legends of BMX were not only racers and competitors, but also individuals whose personalities helped shape the culture of the sport.