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Draft:Jeremy Cotter

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Jeremy Cotter (born 1980) is an Australian ocean and surf lifesaving athlete with over 20 years of experience as a professional ironman and ocean paddler. He began his career at Queenscliff, Sydney, under the guidance of his father, Billy, and quickly rose to prominence by winning the junior Australian ironman title at 18. Cotter went on to compete in the Uncle Toby’s and Nutri-Grain ironman series, earning multiple titles and representing Australia, NSW, and Queensland. In his second career as an ocean paddler, he has become a three-time Australian ocean paddling series champion and co-founder of the Gold Coast Paddlers Club. Cotter, now based on the Gold Coast, continues to inspire the next generation as a coach at North Burleigh Surf Club, where he’s been involved since his time at Currumbin, while also working as a paramedic.

Early Life

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Jeremy Cotter’s passion for surf lifesaving began at an early age, growing up on Sydney’s Northern Beaches with the ocean as his playground. Born in 1980, he started out as a nipper at Queenscliff Surf Club, where his father, Billy, played an instrumental role in fostering his love for the sport. With his father's guidance, Cotter trained rigorously, often starting his days with 5 a.m. swim sessions followed by afternoon board and ski practices. His dedication paid off, leading him to early competitive success, including his win in the junior Australian ironman title at just 18. This early achievement marked the start of his journey into professional surf lifesaving, ultimately propelling him to a career as one of Australia’s most accomplished ironmen.[1]

Achievements

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Throughout his illustrious career, Jeremy Cotter has made significant contributions to both surf lifesaving and ocean paddling. He rose to prominence as a professional ironman from 1998 to 2006, competing in the Uncle Toby’s and Nutri-Grain series, where he became an inspiration for many aspiring athletes, including those just starting in ocean ski paddling. Cotter claimed the junior Australian ironman title at the age of 18, which launched him into the competitive arena.

Over the course of his professional career, he has achieved remarkable milestones, including being a three-time winner of the Shaw and Partners 20 Beaches Ocean Classic and a five-time champion at the Bridge to Beach. He is also a four-time Australian Ocean Ski Champion and has never placed outside the top three in any international Ocean Ski competition, showcasing his exceptional consistency and skill.[2]

In 2005, Cotter made his mark in the iconic Coolangatta Gold race, finishing in second place during its revival. A decade later, he returned to the race at the age of 35, crossing the finish line in third place, showcasing his enduring talent and commitment to the sport. Transitioning to ocean paddling, he has established himself as a formidable competitor, winning every major Australian race except one. Cotter is a three-time Australian ocean paddling series champion and has twice been a runner-up in the world ocean paddling series, solidifying his status in the international paddling community.

Beyond his competitive accolades, Cotter is dedicated to promoting the sport at the grassroots level. As a co-founder of the Gold Coast Paddlers Club, he plays a vital role in organizing monthly races and free training sessions, fostering the next generation of paddlers. His achievements not only highlight his prowess as an athlete but also his commitment to the growth and development of ocean sports.

Coaching Career

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Jeremy Cotter’s passion for ocean sports extends beyond his achievements as an athlete; it also encompasses a dedicated coaching career aimed at nurturing the next generation of surf lifesavers and paddlers. After his successful stint as a professional ironman, Cotter transitioned to coaching, beginning with his role at Currumbin Beach Vikings Surf Club, where he mentored young nippers. His commitment to developing talent in the sport has had a lasting impact on the community.

Currently, Cotter coaches at North Burleigh Surf Club, where he continues to inspire young athletes by sharing his extensive knowledge and experience. His coaching philosophy emphasizes skill development, teamwork, and a love for the ocean, aiming to create a supportive and engaging environment for his athletes. Cotter organizes training sessions and competitive opportunities, ensuring that his athletes are well-prepared for the challenges of competition while instilling a strong sense of sportsmanship and camaraderie.[3]

Additionally, Cotter's involvement in the Gold Coast Paddlers Club allows him to further promote ocean paddling, where he runs monthly races and free training sessions. His dual role as a competitor and coach highlights his deep commitment to the sport, as he works tirelessly to foster a new generation of skilled paddlers and lifesavers who will carry on the traditions and values of surf lifesaving.

CTC Surfcraft

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In addition to his athletic and coaching pursuits, Jeremy Cotter owned CTC Surfcraft, a company renowned for its unrivaled craftsmanship in handcrafting race boards, surf skis, and paddles.[1] With years of experience in designing high-quality equipment for paddle sports, CTC developed a strong reputation for innovation and performance, catering to paddlers of all levels—from beginners to seasoned competitors. Recently, CTC Surfcraft was acquired by Infront Surfcraft, which aims to further enhance the availability of quality surf sports equipment and support the continued growth of the paddling community.[4]

References

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  1. ^ a b Diego. "About". CTC Surfcraft. Retrieved 2024-10-31.
  2. ^ Booth, Michael. "BOOTHCAST 43 – Jeremy Cotter | Michael Booth". Retrieved 2024-10-31.
  3. ^ "Home - North Burleigh Surf Life Saving Club". 2022-07-26. Retrieved 2024-10-31.
  4. ^ Diego. "CTC Surfcraft". CTC Surfcraft. Retrieved 2024-10-31.