Gavin O’Grady
His hometown named a street after him…
Sonoma Stage win, 1988 Coors Classic
Gavin was a mechanic at our shop and an interactive museum exhibit for a long time. His bikes, pictures and trophies adorned our walls, and his stories filled many a slow afternoon. Since his racing career spanned from the mid ’80s to the early ’90s, Gavin had raced with such notables as Alexi and Rishi Grewal, Davis Phinney, Andy Hampsten, Greg LeMond, Bob Roll, Todd Gogulski, and a young Lance Armstrong. Gavin was part of the National team for years, rode for American professional teams, and was even part of the short lived National Cycling League (remember it?). He had dozens of anecdotes from those days, and was more than willing to share them.
Old School O’Grady
Mountain Leader Jersey, 1988 Coors Classic
1987 Cyclops by Mike Mulholland
Gavin’s strength was his time trialing ability, and crazy solo attacks from miles out. Roy Knickman was interviewed by ABC Sports back in ’88, and as an answer to possible race tactics open to Roy’s team, he responded “Well, we’re not going to do any Hammerhead O’Grady moves.”
Gavin’s notable performances include a stage of the Coors Classic and a stint in the climbers jersey. He won the time trial stage and consequently the overall victories at the Chico stage race and the Tour of the Gila. There were podium placings at the National Championships and a win at the ’88 Olympic Trials.