Volunteer Instructor Spotlight: Taj Patel, West Sound Chapter Volunteer Instructor
20 | Aug | '25
Kristen McCune
Behind every Evergreen class and camp is a passionate instructor ready to share their love of riding. Across Washington, over 100 certified instructors teach year-round, helping riders of all ages progress on the bike while keeping the focus on fun and trails. Each month, we highlight one of these dedicated volunteers. We sat down with this month’s spotlight, Taj Patel from the West Sound, to get the scoop!
What's your story of how you got into mountain biking?
Back when I was in middle school, my brother and his friend talked me into buying a cheap, yellow Trek 4300 hardtail. I hadn't ever ridden a mountain bike before, but they assured me it was going to be a "chill" ride. The very next day they took me straight to what felt like the narrowest and steepest trail I'd ever seen. It only took one handful of front brake and a lack of confidence to throw me full OTB into the bushes - I came out of it with massive scrapes and bruises everywhere (helmet scuffed, pride dented), but thankfully no broken bones. After helping me get to the parking lot, my brother and his friend hauled me home. It didn't take long for my parents to ask what the heck happened, then follow up with, “So when are you selling the bike?” I told them, “Never. I loved every second of mountain biking.” I guess the rest is history!
Back when I was in middle school, my brother and his friend talked me into buying a cheap, yellow Trek 4300 hardtail. I hadn't ever ridden a mountain bike before, but they assured me it was going to be a "chill" ride. The very next day they took me straight to what felt like the narrowest and steepest trail I'd ever seen. It only took one handful of front brake and a lack of confidence to throw me full OTB into the bushes - I came out of it with massive scrapes and bruises everywhere (helmet scuffed, pride dented), but thankfully no broken bones. After helping me get to the parking lot, my brother and his friend hauled me home. It didn't take long for my parents to ask what the heck happened, then follow up with, “So when are you selling the bike?” I told them, “Never. I loved every second of mountain biking.” I guess the rest is history!
What do you enjoy about being an instructor with Evergreen?
Helping students find their “lightbulb” moments. I love building a supportive environment on trail and seeing people leave class riding safer, smoother, and with bigger smiles. Lastly, giving back to the community that gave me so much means the world to me.
Why should someone take a class with Evergreen?
Because you’ll progress faster and safer with coaches who ride (and build) these trails. Our classes use clear, step-by-step progression, small groups, and real-time feedback so you lock in fundamentals that translate to every ride. You’ll join a welcoming community, learn trail stewardship, and leave with skills you can use the same day. Plus, we're just awesome people :)
What's a fun fact about you?
I didn't learn how to ride a bike until I was 10 years old - it's never too late to learn!