So I piled in with a bunch of kids in the cheapest hotel in Orlando. Later that night a roach crawled across my neck as I slept on the floor; I screamed like a little girl! That contest was just the beginning to my traveling days. You could say I came down with a severe case of wanderlust. The first time I left the country, Stu and Jon watched over me like family and continued to do so every time I crossed the Atlantic. Jon's business card is always in my Passport in case of emergency!! I don't seem to have much luck when it comes to keeping my head off the ground in Prague...
Mat, Kevin, Chad, and I did a demo after terrible floods ran through the city. The skatepark had been completely underwater which left the ramps slick enough to slide out from under me. The result was my first six stitches (ever) in my chin. The Worlds in '05 was a different story when I left the dirt jumps in an ambulance. Both times Mat and Steve were there to make sure I received the best care.
In recent years Mark opened his doors and ears to what I had to say concerning product, team, and bad jokes. I appreciate your open-mindedness and hope you valued my input. HB evolved even further with the inception of Sidewall distribution in '06. Being involved in the creative process with Mark, Christie, and John was an opportunity I was not going to let pass me by. Helping guide the new direction of the brand was a huge compliment to me. Hoffman Bikes has always been about change and progression. Mat alone is a testament to that; but he's not done it alone. He's always been in the best of company be it friends, business, or team riders. I am honored to have been a part of it. Ryan
Pics: Hoffman Bikes
After doing a BMX 'zine for ten years (1987 - 1996) FATBMX made it on the internet. The year was 1998. Here to stay.