Beyond the Ride: Michelle Parker

Name, age, current place of residence?

Michelle Parker, 37, Tahoe City, CA

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

I'm a professional freeride skier in a love affair with biking. I've raced in nearly every discipline on my bike with the exception of downhill (road, gravel, enduro) and most notably helped out with Red Bull Formation as a digger, a photographer, and an athlete liaison/mentor.

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

Women getting invited to the Red Bull Rampage for the first time ever!

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

I've fallen in love with the freeride movement after attending Formation from it's inception. I think that being a part of that event, helping to see it through and then realizing its ripple effect, got me so fired up on women's progression. If I can be a small cog in the wheel of that aspect of biking, and continue to create opportunities for people who identify as women, I am satisfied.

What, outside of mountain biking, makes you excited?

Skiing, for sure, I think that's obvious. Really anything outside, as that is where I feel like I am my best self and where I've historically grown the most. To add to that, sharing that aspect of my life with others has certainly become a passion of mine, specifically youth who might not have the same privileges as I do.

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.)

My current goals are to continue to be present, to evolve in my work and athletically, and to continue to care for my dad who has Dementia with the most love.

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

I feel like women are opening up doors for so many right now. To see the floodgates of individuals of all walks of life being welcomed with open arms at the women's events is really inspiring. I will always think of Alex Showerman and her East Coast event as well as her new short that will be coming out soon as progression in the right direction. Alex was initially invited to Formation and turned the energy she gained from that event into her own event - and that is exactly the ripple effect that I am talking about. It's really special to see that movement to get others on bikes, hitting features, enjoying themselves and pushing past their own glass ceilings!

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

Online shit talking! The fix? Get off your phone.

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

I've been sticking close to home while caring for my dad so I've gotta give it up to the backyard trails that make me feel like I am somewhere else. Tahoe's mountain bike culture is catching on and the trail system is getting more challenging and progressive which I love, but my favorite trails tend not to be on the map. Shouts to all of the local builders making it happen.

What other question do you wish we’d asked?

Do you have a new puppy? Yes, yes I do and I love her soooooo much! She can't wait until she's big enough and strong enough to go biking!

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

My fiance Aaron Blatt , my mom, dad, and brother! Huge thanks to Specialized, Red Bull, Arc'teryx, Anon, Darn Tough, Palisades Tahoe and Peak Skis for keeping the dream alive!