Quarantine Parks. Private places to ride during Covid-19 times. Part 1: Ryan Nyquist

Apr 20, 2020

Written by Bart de Jong

Read 3639 times

Name Park: Boostyard v3
Operator: Ryan Nyquist
Location: Wilmington, NC USA

What made you decide to build your own park in the backyard?
Ryan Nyquist: Once The Unit was shut down and dismantled, I knew I needed something to keep me fresh on my bike and sane. The local parks are super fun but lacked certain ramps and obstacles that I really enjoyed. So I decided to treat myself and make something I knew I would enjoy.

How does it compare to The Unit?
Ryan Nyquist: It's way smaller and simpler, but has everything I need to keep a smile on my face. Basically just big ramps that I can ride at speed and do fun tricks on.

Did you use wood from The Unit or did you have to buy everything new?
Ryan Nyquist: I bought everything new. The wood from The Unit was untreated and wouldn’t last long

outside in the North Carolina climate. So I had to buy all new, treated wood.

In these days of home quarantine, how does it feel to have a place to ride right out of the door?
Ryan Nyquist: It’s amazing and I feel very fortunate to have what I have. Being able to ride whenever I want is making this quarantine so much easier.

Who helped with the design?
Ryan Nyquist: I made the design up. Used SketchUp to draw everything out. I knew most of the dimensions from working on ramps for years. I made it have everything I needed to have fun. Vert wall, box, spine, 10’ quarter with a mellower landing, 7’ quarter, and a little kicker to hit as a long and low over the box for speed to boost the 10’.

How long did it take to build the ramps and who offered help to put it together?
Ryan Nyquist: A couple of months but that was because of the weather and supplies coming in at separate times. Ron Kimler and his company LiveWire Construction did two separate trips. They killed it!

How does it feel to be able to ride the backyard with the kids and the locals?
Ryan Nyquist: It’s the best! My kids mainly use it as a slide. Hahhaa! But my sometimes Jameson is getting into riding a bit more so that’s pretty fun to watch.

Who sweeps the leaves?
Ryan Nyquist: Mainly me. Hahhaah! But I got a leaf blower and anyone who has shown up to ride has lent a hand.

What are the Covid-19 restrictions where you live at the moment?
Ryan Nyquist: No large group gatherings. Stay home except for essential needs. So sessions have been pretty limited lately.

If you need something built or moved, who are you gonna call?
Ryan Nyquist: Me and maybe a neighbor. Hahaha!

What was the sickest session in the yard so far?
Ryan Nyquist: Hard to say. We’ve had a few awesome sessions with close friends. Jeremiah Shinn, Marcus Tooker, and Paul Smith. I’ve had some great sessions with Perris Benegas, Hannah Roberts and Angie Marino too! I’ve gotten used to riding by myself though, so sometimes I get pretty radical out there on my own.