The myth, the man, the legend!

I am dedicating my first blog in a while to the myth, the man, the legend – Doug Cottle. As the oldest living member of the GC Connection, and one of the strongest, we owe a lot to this founding member. None of us would be where we are today if it weren’t for Doug and his motivation and generosity. There are so many of us that he has reached and/or helped in some way or another. I don’t think I have met a more generous man!

Aside from his generosity he is the second most competitive person I know, second only the GC man himself, Gordon Cottle. At sixty years today there is not a person he cannot out ride on the GC Connection. He is so competitive that he will never turn away from a challenge, even if it means crashing on a difficult mountain bike descent, pushing himself up the steepest hill, or riding and finishing 6 Lotoja’s.

There are so many fond memories of Doug, but I wanted to share one with you. Before the 2006 Lotoja I was talking with Doug and he told me about an injury that he had on his leg. I don’t remember the details as to why or how it happened, but Doug had a broken leg! And he wanted to continue and ride the 206 mile Lotoja. I thought there was no way he could ride such a grueling race with a fracture on his bone. As I flew into town I became even more concerned as I saw Doug limp along and finally got to see the mound of swelling that was on his shin. I asked if he was up to the race and he said he was.

I didn’t sleep much before the race, still worried about the old man. But in the morning he was more determined than ever. My mom pulled me aside and said, “You better watch out for your dad! Make sure he comes back alright.” Throughout the long ride Doug never once said, “I don’t think I can do this!” He continued to push on with his face focusing on one pedal stroke at a time. Doug didn’t talk much through the race, probably because his jaw was locked shut with determination, but he made it! He has such determination!

Thanks Pop for all the memories! Happy 60th birthday! You keep us young by your determination and love of others. You are the heart and soul of the GC Connection. Miss you and wish I was there to celebrate. In your words…. Ride safe!