Beyond the Ride: Emmerson Wilken

Editor’s Note:

Beyond the Ride is our love letter to the people who make mountain biking better. This isn’t a series reserved for sponsored athletes or the folks in power at bike brands (although we’re excited to cover those too). Instead, it’s an open invitation: Do you know someone who’s working to make mountain biking better? Nominate them here . We want to highlight the local ripper, the policy wonk who works with land agencies, the mechanic who saved your race, and the organizer who put it on. This is for the advocates, the storytellers, the builders, and the coaches.

When Emmerson Wilken heard that local New Zealand athlete Robin Goomes nominated him for our “Beyond the Ride” series, he first thanked Robin for the shout-out - “nice of Robin” - and then confirmed what a lot of our nominees have said, in so many words, when approached about a feature:

“It’s awesome you guys are doing things like this. I agree, more recognition to the ones behind the scenes is a great thing. Although, as you say, most of those who do it don't do it for recognition, but for the love and passion and don't need the kudos. That goes for me, too. I don't want to take any credit, personally, but happy to recognize the collective whole. If it encourages more people to get involved, then job done.”

We literally could not have put it better ourselves why you deserve this, Emmerson.

Name, age, current place of residence?

Emmerson Wilken, 39, Queenstown, NZ.

What do you do (specifically related to mountain biking)?

Mountain bike trail building, both as a volunteer and for work.

I work as a project manager and shaper with Elevate Trails, who build the Crankworx Slopestyle courses. I've been a digger at Rampage, but most of my digging now is at Wynyard Terrain park, Dream Track and Mini Dream, where we build and maintain the place as volunteers.

I occasionally do kids coaching. I've been on the Queenstown Mountain Bike Club committee for almost a decade as a volunteer. Been asked to step up as president a few times, but declined, as most presidents only go for a few years and bow out. I'd prefer to stay in the background and support for way longer.

I'm also Operations Manager for Crankworx Summer Series in NZ, event director for Queenstown Bike Festival, am helping to bring Proving Grounds to Queenstown, and then, most importantly, enjoy riding all bikes. I’m an ambassador for a few bike brands, and still sometimes compete in Crankworx.

What’s been the bike-related highlight of your year?

Getting comfortable back on my bike and hanging out with all my bike friends after breaking my back the previous year - that and maybe the overwhelming positive feedback I've received on how good Dream Track has been, after finally finishing both the last jump I've been working on for years and the upgrades we've completed this year.

If you could leave any impact on mountain biking, what would you like to be remembered for?

Mmm, tough one. Passion and persistence in growing the sport in Queenstown at all levels. And providing a platform for riders to progress to their next level and, ultimately, the highest level, like in Robin's case.

What, outside of mountain biking, makes you excited?

Right now, that would be my five week-old son. It's been an insane experience holding the little guy for the first time, and looking forward to all his "firsts," like first bike ride. Otherwise, snow sports and water sports.

What are your goals for the next year? (They can be anything from race results, to injury recovery, to just trying to ride your bike more.)

I had a thought of going to try to compete in Crankworx Speed and Style again. Wondering if they have ever had a forty year-old give it a crack? I'd love to ride Sam's Dark Fest, but not sure if any of this is unrealistic with a baby, now, and the time on the bike I'd need to feel comfortable enough.

And there are still a few more projects on Dream Track and the progression area to work on and improve.

What’s the most exciting trend in mountain biking you’re seeing right now (and how can we help foster it)?

Women's freeride! I love how fast it's progressing and that they have a stage to do it on. Keep showing the world what the ladies are doing; the exposure will give them more support and credibility, which will help them push it further.

What’s the worst trend you’re seeing right now (and how would you fix it)?

Keyboard warriors, or anyone that has to so strongly voice their opinion without having any actual facts on the subject or background to the situation.

The same goes for people who just complain about stuff that they could actually contribute to but don't. If there aren't enough trails or jump parks, etc, just go out and make it happen. Get a spot, get approval and get digging.

Oh, and people that shralp/braap flow track berms then a week later complain the trail is haggard and beat up.

What’s your trail of choice right now (and why)?

Dream Track and Mini Dream. Just love big jumps. Reaping the rewards of all the work we've put in.

Any sponsors, friends, or family you’d like to thank?

My wife Meagan, the Queenstown Bike community, friends, and sponsors. 3Sixty Sports, Forbidden bikes, Marleens, Worralls, Industry 9, and Proflow. And all volunteers, everywhere. Without their hard work, biking would not be what it is today.