Rider Perspective - Miranda Miller

Have you ever seen a stranger and all of a sudden get flooded with a depressed feeling? You think to yourself, “Man, they must have a boring life.” Then usually feel a little guilty for judging like that, for all you know they have a totally good time. But it is always in moments like these when I feel the most grateful for my own lifestyle. I live the life I do because of a long string of opportunities that were presented to me which I took advantage of that have allowed me the time and opportunity to pursue a dream.


Firstly, I was raised by a family that granted me freedom and encouraged creativity, letting me embrace my surroundings of the outdoors comfortably. After finding mountain biking as my true passion I was then given the chance to work with Shaums March, who played a big role in developing my riding and pointing me in the right directions when it came to dealing within the industry. He taught me from both his positive and negative experiences which allowed me to start and create my image within the business. From this, I learned to independently connect and network and I now have a list of amazing sponsors who are helping make it possible for me to continue my pursuit. Every time I go to a race or out to ride I am constantly learning from my competitors and surroundings. Stemming from these few examples I am in return continuously given opportunities to move forward and progress. I’m a big fan of the author Malcolm Gladwell, and this quote stuck with me,




I’m not writing this to brag about how great my life is, and I hope I don’t sound too ‘preachy’. I’m also not saying it’s been based off luck either, I have worked very hard for what I have and what I do, and I have a long, long road still in front of me in order to reach my goals. Both myself and my family have had to make sacrifices and sometimes we both get tired. But no matter what the trials or tribulations are, you get up the next day and realize there is nothing else at this time you’d rather be doing.

So from my perspective, opportunity is what separates us from success and mediocracy. I realize not everyone is given positive opportunities through-out their lives, and factors like dedication and passion play a large role. But it all starts when you get that chance to exercise your passion and focus your energy. So when you do, apply yourself and make it worthwhile. Don’t let your days just slide by without doing something to help yourself.


Perhaps it was from hearing too many excuses or complaints in lift lines, on forums and in coffee shops etc., but thank-you Pinkbike.com for letting me rant and talk about things from my perspective. Remember, nobody likes someone that complains, but makes no change!

Thanks for reading and to the below sponsors and supporters for the years of opportunity -

Santa Cruz Bicycles
SRAM/Avid/Truvativ/RockShox
Pinkbike.com
Fox Head
Smith Optics
Maxxis Tires
DT Swiss
MRP Guides
Chromag seats
PerformX Training
Cycling BC DH Team
Squamish Savings
Team Squamish

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