This weekend’s Scottish Cycling Conference & Awards once again saw the highest available accolade, the Badge of Honour, presented to a very worthy recipient.
Colin Houston is a name synonymous with the Scottish Downhill scene, and after approval at the AGM, he rightly collected his badge during the 2024 Scottish Cycling Awards.
Colin has been the driving force behind the Scottish Downhill scene over the last two decades, which continues to go from strength to strength. Chair of the Scottish Downhill Association, Colin has guided the association and its race series through the pandemic, and the rise of Enduro racing, which whilst complementary, is also a direct competitor. The organisation is in a great place thanks to Colin’s stewardship, the series boasting sellout events at most rounds.
Perhaps just as importantly though, he has created a fantastic culture, which has attracted an army of regular, dependable volunteers, many of whom are much younger than he is, and will continue to drive the sport forward as Colin has done for so long. The key to developing that positive culture – and attracting volunteers from all over the UK – is the confidence he instils in people.
Colin is a great leader, however it is never about him – Colin unifies people, and then gives them the freedom to do what they do best. Often found in the background, Colin is somewhat of an unsung hero, but someone who fully deserves this award.
Receiving the award from newly elected Scottish Cycling President, Sandy Gilchrist, Houston said:
“It is an honour to receive this award, but this isn’t just for me, it is for everyone on table 10 and many other people. The recognition means a lot, but I have to thank everyone who has supported me, and British Cycling and Scottish Cycling who are always in the background offering their support.”
The Badge of Honour recognises the contribution and achievement of individuals who have shown exceptional dedication, made a remarkable contribution or given an outstanding performance, through a lifetime dedicated to the sport of cycling in Scotland. Simply put, it is the highest accolade Scottish Cycling can award.
Most recent recipients include transplant survivor Steve Donaldson, who gives so much to the scene in the West of Scotland, female cycling trailblazer Rita Montgomery, and the late Rab Wardell, who needs no introduction.
Congratulations Colin and thank you, from everyone in the Scottish Cycling community, for everything you do for our sport.