Quarantine Parks. Private places to ride during Covid-19 times. Part 21: Marcus Christopher's ramps (USA)

Jun 02, 2020

Written by Bart de Jong

Read 2950 times

Name of Park: Graceland Bmx
Operator: Marcus Christopher
Location: Canton, Ohio

It seems like things are slowly opening up again. What's the Covid-19 situation like where you live?
Marcus Christopher: Retail businesses and restaurants are slowing starting to open back up although, there still are quite a few regulations. As of now until July 1st, social distancing gathering restrictions and the use of masks are being suggested. Local skateparks are starting to open back up as well.

How did it feel when you were asked to stay home and you could go to the yard to do some riding still?
Marcus Christopher: I felt fortunate to have my backyard setup but the weather here in Ohio didn’t permit me to ride as much as I’d like.

What other way did you kill time the last 6 weeks?
Marcus Christopher: I usually completed my school work virtually in the mornings and in the afternoon when I wasn’t riding I went fishing and rode my quad a decent amount.

How long have you had your backyard ramp?
Marcus Christopher: It’ll be four years in July.

Who designed it?
Marcus Christopher: Cory Wiergowski with the input from me and my dad.

Who built it?
Marcus Christopher: Ramped Construction which Cory owns

Do you have bigger plans for the ramp set-up?
Marcus Christopher: Nothing as far as changes at this point but we have talked about skateliteing the entire ramp hopefully sometime soon.

Who rides with you on a regular basis?
Marcus Christopher: The majority of the time I ride by myself since there’s not many park riders in my area but I do ride as much as I can with Nick Bruce and the other Cleveland guys.

How has your riding progressed with the ramp in the yard (over the past few years)?
Marcus Christopher: I’m constantly progressing, having a resi-quarter and box has enabled me to dial in tricks before taking them to the wood.

Would you go nuts if you didn't have the ramp?
Marcus Christopher: Probably, since the closest park that’s suited for me is an hour away.

What other parks are around you that you get to ride when they are open?
Marcus Christopher: Ray's, Chenga, and Nick Bruce’s warehouse which we were able to ride throughout this whole pandemic.

What is the first place you're going to visit when this pandemic is over?
Marcus Christopher: Everything is still a waiting game as of now. I had plans to compete this whole summer but right now everything is cancelled. I hope to make it down to the Newark skatepark sometime soon.

Thanks to: Rockstar Energy, DK Bikes, Duo Parts, and my mom and dad for supporting me