Garret Potter lived in 20 homes—in nine states and in Tokyo—before he graduated from high school, and one of the few constants in almost all of those places was building bike jumps. The mental therapy of cycling takes many forms, and in Garret’s case it involves hours of sweaty labor—shoveling and tamping and wayfinding—so that more jumping enthusiasts can catch filthy air.

Garret gave up jumping after a massive crash when he was just 18 years old, and he abstained for 18 more out of longer-term concern for his health and mobility. Being cleared to return was one of those watershed moments you never forget, and he hasn’t looked back (mostly because all the protective gear he wears makes it difficult to move your neck).

Garret got involved with Ann Arbor Parks soon after he settled here in 2013, and he is quick to thank all of the volunteers, like Thomas Hosford, who help and precede him. As is the case with most local bike advocacy, maintaining the bike parks relies heavily on the people who give their time and energy to maintain them. Garret shows his appreciation by engaging with his team often and staying vigilant for signs of burnout. And judging by the record attendance at their latest Summer Jam last weekend, that effort seems to be paying off.

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We also talk about learning about BMX from his dad, his halcyon days as a performing poet living out of his car, and why permanent sheds help phase out the need for Ren Faire cosplay.

Other links:

* Follow Ann Arbor Bike Parks on Instagram and Facebook

* Ann Arbor Parks and Recreation Open Space (PROS) Plan

* Read the Bicycle Recreation Advocacy Group’s Development Proposal …

* … and this shout-out to the many volunteer advocates

* Considering a trip to Tübingen, Germany?

* The Lucille Ball statues in Celoron, NY

* All about the DTE Trail

* Read an excerpt of Hide and Seek: A Poet’s Memoir

* Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs

* The Give 365 Volunteer Program

* How to Adopt A Park

* The Potawatomi Mountain Biking Association

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bicycleallianceofwashtenaw.substack.com