Dave Wottle, Bowling Green: Collegiate Athlete Hall of Fame, Class of 2023

Dave Wottle, a remarkable middle-distance runner, dominated the track during his final two years at Bowling Green. His success extended beyond collegiate competition, as his five NCAA titles were complemented by a gold medal at the 1972 Munich Olympics following his junior year.

Wottle’s prowess wasn’t limited to a single event; he claimed three of his five NCAA crowns in the 1500 meters/mile, while his Olympic gold came in the 800 meters. He first made his mark as a sophomore in 1970, finishing as runner-up in the NCAA Outdoor Championships mile. After an injury-plagued 1971 season, Wottle returned with an extraordinary 1972 campaign.

During that Olympic year, Wottle clinched the NCAA 880 yards title indoors and anchored Bowling Green’s distance medley relay team to victory. Outdoors, he captured the NCAA 1500 meters title before embarking on an unforgettable summer of 800-meter races. After winning the AAU title, he triumphed at the U.S. Olympic Trials, setting a world record with a time of 1:44.3.

Wottle’s dramatic victory in the 800 meters at the Munich Olympics marked the end of his junior year. He made a thrilling comeback from last place with 200 meters remaining, securing victory by a mere 0.03 seconds – the closest finish in the event’s Olympic history – with a time of 1:45.86.

Wottle’s final track race for Bowling Green was equally memorable, as he won the mile at the 1973 NCAA Outdoor Championships, donning his trademark golf hat. He led eight runners to break the 4-minute barrier, a feat that had only occurred once before worldwide. Wottle’s meet record of 3:57.1 is likely to stand, as the event has been contested at 1500 meters since 1976.