I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Mark for several years now, and not only is he is a seriously skilled rider, he has an amazing business head on him too. With what could be described as one of New Zealand’s dream jobs he is the main man behind the scenes at Auckland’s Woodhill Bike Park.
Below we delve a little deeper into what makes him tick:
How old are you?
36
Where do you live?
Ellerslie, Auckland, New Zealand
What do you like best about living where you do?
It’s a vibrant city, yet has a truckload of outdoor activities and attractions within 30 mins (outside of peak hour traffic) of the city centre.
What do you dislike about living where you do?
It’s just a bit far to ride to Woodhill from home every day so I have to battle a bit of traffic.
How did you get involved in the mountain bike scene to begin with and how long ago was that?
I got involved in the Woodhill Mountain Bike Park in 2002 where I bought into the newly formed Bike Parks Limited.
What’s your ‘day’ job? What does it involve?
Managing Director of the Woodhill Mountain Bike Park. Anything from working with the financial side of the business, marketing, park sponsorship, and my favourite part—working in the trails with crew.
What are the 5 benefits of working with bikes all day every day?
While we don’t work directly with bikes all day every day, working in the park and on our business all day every day brings the benefits of working in the outdoors; it keeps us fit and healthy, we get to see the huge amount of enjoyment our riders get from riding the trails we develop and maintain, we get to work in a constantly evolving industry filled with amazing technology, and get to ride our bikes as part of job from time to time!
How would you describe your riding style?
Jimmy (at Worralls) and the boys often call me a hucker, so maybe my style is Old School Hucking.
Favourite trail?
Dirt Merchant into A-line at Whistler.
What’s one thing you’ve learned in the last 10 years?
Any vision can be achieved if there is enough passion, drive and commitment from a great team.
What’s wrong with mountain biking?
Only the accidents and injuries that can happen in the sport.
What are three things right with mountain biking?
It gets you into a healthy outdoor environment, and it’s truly fun and challenging while providing awesome fitness, regardless of your age, skill level or when you entered the sport. Mountain biking is a sport that anyone can embrace and constantly improve in, especially now with all the different facets to the sport.
Top two mountain bike developments in the last 10 years?
Hydraulic Seat Posts, Overall gains in suspension technology
All time favourite rider?
Racer: Steve Peat. Freerider/Jumper: Brandon Semenuk
Top five favourite bits of mountain bike kit?
Troy Lee D3 Helmet, 510s, Saint Cranks, Minion C3 Fronts, Reverb Seat Post/hydraulic seat posts in general
Who do you look up to?
Cedric Gracia, Travis Pastrana and Tony Hawk. Not only awesome athletes, but also brilliant businessman.
What are your vices?
Ice Cream, Black Sambuca shots (after far too many beers).
Finish this sentence: “On a Saturday I like to get up and….”
Have a great coffee, read the newspaper and then go riding with my
mates. Happens often but never enough!
HIGHPANST!!!!!!
HIGHPANTS!!!!