Many of you have heard about IMBA’s (International Mountain Bicycling Association) presence in Arkansas and more recently about the World Summit that is coming in November. I have been asking around and it seems there are still many folks in the NWA cycling community who aren’t exactly sure what IMBA does and what the World Summit is all about. So I connected with Natasha Brand to help shed some light on the exciting things going on with mountain biking in Arkansas. Take a second and read this interview!

IMBA Interview

Natasha Brand | South Central Region Program Representative

OCA: Can you tell us about the International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA)? What is IMBA’s mission? Vision? Etc.

Natasha: Our mission is to create, enhance and preserve great mountain biking experiences. Volunteer members of local IMBA chapters all over the country are dedicated to mountain bike advocacy, education, access and trail building. IMBA has been encouraging low-impact riding, volunteer trail work participation, cooperation among different trail user groups, grassroots advocacy and innovative trail management solutions since 1988.

OCA: When did IMBA come to Arkansas? What has IMBA been up to in Arkansas?

Natasha: IMBA officially established the South Central Region in 2013, Arkansas has since seen the formation of four highly successful IMBA chapters. Ozark Off-Road Cyclists (OORC) the first to join in 2013, Central Arkansas Trail Alliance (CATA) in 2014, followed by Friends of Arkansas Singletrack (FAST) and Friends of the Syllamo Trail (FOST) in 2015. In addition, Arkansas is now home to four IMBA Epic trails, three IMBA Ride Centers and currently boasts the only Regional Ride Center designation in the country. On top of that, so much new trail was being built in anticipation of the World Summit that at one point this summer there were six trail building companies working simultaneously in Northwest Arkansas.

OCA: IMBA deals with mountain biking issues. What have been the biggest challenges here in Arkansas?

Natasha: IMBA staff have been working with volunteer leaders and members in our four chapters to increase trail access and help chapters build productive relationships with land managers including Arkansas State Parks, The Nature Conservancy and the U.S. Forest Service. Thanks to our collaborative efforts, planning and development of mountain bike trail projects has flourished in places like Wildcat Mountain in the Ouachita National Forest and Tyler Bend in Buffalo National Park. We have also tackled long-term trail maintenance and sustainability issues with our Arkansas Trail Crew.

OCA: What is the long-term vision for mountain biking in Arkansas?

Natasha: Here in The Natural State, mountain biking is a proven way for people to experience nature and enjoy health and wellness benefits for themselves and their families. Mountain biking opportunities—sustainable trails in more places—will continue to grow as people choose Arkansas as a year-round mountain bike vacation destination. When mountain biking closes for the season out West, our lack of snowfall and moderate winters make Arkansas an ideal place to enjoy some fantastic singletrack.

OCA: Switching gears. Tell us about the World Summit? What is it about? How many people are attending? What can we expect?

Natasha: IMBA’s World Summit is a biennial event that brings together mountain bike advocates, enthusiasts, volunteers, trail builders, thought leaders, bike industry representatives, land managers and government officials from across the U.S. and around the world. Participants attend educational panels and workshops about community building, trail techniques and mountain bike advocacy work. About 500 people will join us in Bentonville this year, including legendary riders Danny Macaskill, Hans Rey and Ryan Leech. Expect to meet people from all over and learn about mountain biking experiences in different communities.

OCA: What event/day is a “you shouldn’t miss this type of event” and how does someone purchase tickets?

Natasha: Unfortunately the World Summit has already sold out, or I would say the Railyard Bike Park trials riding showcase with Danny Macaskill and Hans Rey! However, tickets are still available for Saturday’s VIP Experience, which includes a guided group ride with pro riders and an evening cocktail reception.

OCA: How does someone get involved with IMBA?

Natasha: The best way is to join your local chapter. Then join a group ride or a trail work day! You can find your nearest chapter at www.imba.com/join.

OCA: A BIG thanks to Natasha for taking the time to be interviewed. These are exciting times for Arkansas mountain biking! Getty up!