In 1981, Michel Le Goaix decided he was going to introduce first time riders and encourage competitive cycling with the creation of the Collingwood Cycling Club – CCC.
From May through October, Michel would coordinate 3 weekly rides including a Tuesday short ride, Thursday criterium, and a 80-100km route on Saturdays. He would map and organize the rides, track the results and always rode with the last person on Saturday to ensure they made it home! When contacted, many riders commented on Michel’s unselfishness as he would ride in front of new riders to block the wind.
As president, he organized the first ever cycling race in 1982 as part of Summerfest. This event was held annually for the next 5 years attracting cyclists from across the province. As President, he led the CCC as host of the Ontario Hill Climbing Senior Championships. These events established the CCC and allowed Michel to work alongside other clubs to hold interclub races.
Many locals credit Michel with introducing cycling to their healthy lifestyle. One particular local, two-time Olympian, Sue Palmer credits Michel in sharing his infectious passion. Working her way up from local to interclub to provincial to National Champion, Sue has participated in 13 Road World Championships.
Outside of cycling, Michel coached Minor Soccer throughout 1970 & 80, marshalled ski races at Duntroon Highlands Cross Country and volunteered for the 1997 World Special Olympics hosted in our region.
As a competitor, Michel was an accomplished cyclist. In his age group, he competed in a 45km race finishing 6th in the 1985 World Masters Games.
Currently, there is a very healthy cycling scene in Collingwood. Unquestionably, Michel’s early efforts can be attributed to its burgeoning success.
On Sarturday, October 27, 2018, the Collingwood Sports Hall of Fame welcomes Michel Le Goaix as an enshrined member of Collingwood’s sporting history.