FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Announcing Justin Martin as COGGS’s First Executive Director

After conducting a robust search, the Cyclists of Gitchee Gumee Shores (COGGS) has found the perfect candidate right here in Duluth. We are very pleased to announce Justin Martin as our first Executive Director.

Justin has been hired to lead COGGS in its next phase of growth, while continuing its core mission of developing and maintaining world-class mountain biking opportunities for all in the Twin Ports. Justin has been actively involved with COGGS’s since the planning and construction of the Piedmont Trails in 2007. Justin has been instrumental over the years and has logged countless volunteer hours in making the Piedmont Trails more sustainable and creating innovative trails of all levels within Duluth. Justin enjoys introducing people to the sport of mountain biking and values inclusion.

Justin holds a masters degree in social work from the University of Minnesota-Duluth and has most recently been a local government social worker within St. Louis County. He lives with his family in the Lincoln Park neighborhood of Duluth.

Justin’s knowledge and enthusiasm for what we do, his ability to build and maintain long-term relationships convinced us that Justin is the one to lead COGGS in continuing to accomplish great achievements and building the mountain biking community in the years to come. “We are excited to have someone with Justin’s talent and leadership strength and look forward to working with Justin in this new capacity starting later this month” said Board Chair Dave Antonson.

“My passion for mountain biking has been a driving force in my life since obtaining my first mountain bike almost 30 years ago. I am thrilled at the prospect of investing more time and energy into the local mountain bike scene. Looking into the future as the Executive Director I will be closely involved in strengthening relationships with COGGS membership base, volunteers, sponsors and both public and private partners.” said Executive Director Justin Martin.

This newly created Executive Director position marks the first paid executive position for COGGS. Established in 1994 as a non-profit cycling club, all efforts by board members, vast numbers of trail workers, and others have been 100% volunteer driven. Justin was selected after a six-month search that included evaluating a strong list of applicants.

“Justin has a genuine and engaging personality for mountain biking. He understands our trail system and our membership” said Board Chair Dave Antonson.

About COGGS

COGGS builds, maintains and advocates for over 110 miles of mountain bike trails enhancing the quality of life in the Twin Ports and connecting neighborhoods and people to green spaces and parks. Duluth and COGGS are recognized by the International Mountain Biking Association (IMBA) as a Gold Level Ride Center, one of only six in the world.