Gilbert Colgate

Gilbert Bayard Colgate Jr., born on December 21, 1899, was a remarkable American businessman and bobsledder who made his mark in the 1930s. He is best known for winning the bronze medal in the two-man bobsled event at the 1936 Winter Olympics held in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, partnering with teammate Richard Lawrence.

A proud graduate of Yale University in 1922, Colgate was deeply rooted in a family legacy that traced back to William Colgate, the founder of what is now the Colgate-Palmolive Company. As one of five children of Gilbert Colgate Sr., he not only contributed to the family business as a director but also took on leadership roles, including serving as chairman of the Colgate-Larsen Aircraft Company.

Beyond his business endeavors, Colgate was a man of vision and social responsibility. He was particularly concerned about the population explosion and took proactive steps to address this issue by becoming one of the founders of Planned Parenthood, demonstrating his commitment to societal well-being.

Gilbert Colgate's life was a blend of athletic achievement and business acumen, leaving a lasting legacy that extended beyond the bobsled track and into the realms of corporate leadership and social advocacy.