The Great Handcar Regatta. Home. By Joel Rosephotos by Joel Rose Before railroad handcars were used by racing enthusiasts, they helped build U.S. railroads in the 19th century. Only A Game’s Joel Rose explores the pastime of handcar racing during his trip to the annual Railroad Handcar Racing Championships in York County, Pennsylvania. The handcar is a human-powered vehicle powered by an arm that pivots, which passengers alternately push down and pull up. The "New Freedom" train station in York County where the Railroad Handcar Racing Association of Pennsylvania held their championship race.
Handcar "pusher" Shawn Brady does his part for his team, the York County Sheriffs. The pusher is responsible pushing the 800 pound handcar to the starting line. A pusher for the New Freedom Fire Department continues his push to the starting line. A handcar team is made up of one "pusher" and four "pumpers". The York County Sheriffs team pumps its way to the finish line. AnachroCon. Gaslight Gathering: Steampunk & Victoriana Convention. Oklahoma Steampunk Exposition. Wild Wild West Steampunk Convention & Festival - March 4-6, 2011. The Aetheric Calliope. Renovation - Home.