Michael Butler wrote in part:
>
> Gauntlet is the correct English spelling. Gantlet is
> the American variation spelling. Both are allowed ....
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> Comes from an early Swedish word GATLOPP courtesy of
> the Vikings (as near as we get yo cycling on this
> one)invasions of the British Isles. Gata = lane lopp=
> course.
> Or from the French GANTELET via another invasion of
> the British isles by the Normans (another wonderful
> bike).
> Finally could come from another Germanic word GANT
> courtesy of the Anglo Saxons coming to Britain. Gant
> old middle English word for glove.
> Funny another British bike Saxon named after another
> invasion.