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North Vancouver, BC
How did you discover your talent? What got you started?
I started mountain biking when my dad introduced me to the Whistler Mountain Bike park when I was around 7 years old, and we would ride there every summer. It wasn’t until I was around 13 that I really started getting into the sport. Riding with boys and being able to keep up to them is what made me really discover and realize I actually might have talent in the sport.
As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
When I was super young I actually wanted to be a professional skateboarder and in the NBA haha. Everytime we had a school project on what we wanted to be when we grew up I wrote about those two things, I was very passionate about them. Although by highschool that shifted into wanting to be a professional mountain biker, and now a photographer.
Who was your biggest inspiration?
When I was young, it was pretty much anyone I thought was cool or looked up to in action sports. Weather that be in movies/videos or in person. All different kinds of snowboarders, skateboarders, surfers, and mountain bikers. I took inspiration from all different kinds of sports and people.
What makes you keep innovating and pushing your skills to new heights? What’s the intrinsic driver or motivation?
I think living on the North Shore there are so many progressive riders and new features popping up everywhere that pushing your skills to new heights comes naturally. Whenever I see people trying new things I want to as well. I am also my own biggest competition, and I always have a desire to improve in all different aspects of my life, in both work and sports.
So far, what has been your favourite highlight of your career? An achievement? A specific moment?
For sure getting sponsored as a National athlete for Knolly Bikes! I always dreamed of riding for a company, and to actually make that happen was a big achievement for me, and it is something I am super grateful for.
In regards to your career, where do you want to be in 5 or 10 years?
Over the last fews years I have become very passionate about photography and along with that my career goals have shifted. In 5 or 10 years I definitely want to have a career as a professional photographer. Other than that I just want to be enjoying life and having fun! And hopefully travelling too.
In terms of healthy habits, what are your thoughts on the current beverage options out there? (I.e. Energy Drinks, high sugar drinks etc)
I have always tried to stay away from energy drinks growing up as they just seemed super unhealthy. They try to come across as the best option for action sports athletes but I think they are the worst!
How does Wize fit into your current lifestyle? And why do you choose Wize?
My favourite drink has always been a nice refreshing iced tea, so when Wize approached me it was an immediate fit. I love that I can enjoy an iced tea without having an insane amount of sugar in it. It is also nice that Wize is so involved with local athletes and different sports, I think it is rad! Most drink companies aren't like that.
What are the next projects coming down the pipeline?
Lots of photoshoots this summer! I am always thinking of different features and locations I want to shoot, and have quite a few different ideas at the back of my mind. Other than that, I am hoping to travel again when it is safe to do so! My first stop will be Tofino for a surf trip.
What’s your favourite flavour of Wize tea? When do you typically drink it?
Mango for sure, it is so delicious. I typically drink them before going for a ride, but really it's anytime I want a refreshing drink!
Thanks for the interview! Where can our audience find out more about you?
Thanks for the questions! They can follow me @michelle_pittam
