Community contribution

U.P. native and outdoor enthusiast Todd Poquette formed 906 Adventure Team in 2014 hoping to fill a void: While there were race teams and a handful of group rides, there weren’t any groups welcoming youth or adults new to the bike scene. At the same time, he learned through youth programs and event direction that people weren’t drawn to mountain biking just to compete. For many the allure was deeper, more personal – about adventure.

We’re not coaching for a win Tuesday night, we’re coaching skills for life

Big wins and difficult losses create lifetime memories and growth. What can kids truly take away from a championship season? We want them to prioritize effort, embrace the failures, develop positive habits, and focus on the journey. A win on Tuesday night is fun – and can provide some great stories to tell – but the habits they develop and the work they learn to enjoy will serve them down the road more than the win itself. There’s a certain level of maturity needed to view setbacks as opportunities, and through cycling we are helping kids develop a way to do that.

A 501(c)3 non-profit

Volunteerism: Without volunteers 906AT could not operate across three U.P. counties, reach 300+ youth, or operate three nationally recognized events. The immortal words of Jim Collins, author of Good to Great, ring true: “First Who – Get the right people on the bus. Great ideas become reality when you have great people.” We have great people helping us change lives.

Partnerships: We develop relationships on a “win-win” philosophy (Stephen Covey, 7 Habits of Highly Effective People). The community we serve wins, our partners win, kids win, our mission wins. We’re empowering people to become the best version of themselves through outdoor adventure.

Grants: 100% of the grant money 906AT receives will cover the cost of specific projects, equipment purchases, and programs.

Events: Proceeds from Polar Roll, The Crusher, and Marji Gesick support local trail development and 906AT operational expenses. We have donated over $100,000 to local trail organizations (NTN Singletrack, Range Area Mountain Bike Association) since 2015.

Recognition

Volunteer Coaches

All of our rides are led by volunteer coaches who have passed a National Interscholastic Cycling Association (NICA) background check, completed Risk Management 101 training, and concussion protocol training. 906 Adventure Team provides Leader backpacks to Group Leaders, ensuring they have everything they need, when they need it. Motorola two-way radios are assigned to each group, providing a reliable form of communication, keeping leaders connected to basecamp.