E12: Finding a Seat at the Table, with Clipped In for Life

There are so many ways to engage with nature, most of us enjoy a simple stroll through a beautiful place, some prefer that stroll to be experienced from the top of a horse, while others choose to identify every single plant they pass or every bird song they hear. Then there are those who choose the more intense experience, like mountain climbing, whitewater kayaking, trial running, or mountain biking. These different users often find themselves sharing the same natural spaces, especially near cities and denser suburban areas, and can lead to competing interests that sometimes result in conflict when left unchecked.

I’m not a conflict resolution specialist, but from my experience in public access and land management I can say that when a group can legitimize their interests, have a unified vision and goals, and advocate for themselves then they will often be granted a seat at the table. So goes the story for Clipped In for Life, or Clipped in for short, a Folsom-based nonprofit with the mission to create opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to find achievement, adventure, and connection through cycling. What I’m so appreciative of, and why I was so excited to sit down with Clint Claassen and Jen Fuss of Clipped In, is that throughout a story of necessity and intention, this organization has been an ever-evolving venture in finding that seat at the table and so much more. As you’ll hear through this conversation, what started off as an effort to improve the timing system for races, has evolved into a slew of programs and offerings that go far beyond just seeing who can ride down a hill the fastest. Clint and Jen highlight their existing youth programs (Folsom Grom Race Series and 678 Jr High MTB Club), which take a holistic approach, not just focusing on skill development, but trail ethics and stewardship as well. And take the opportunity to promote their newest upcoming offering, Grip Academy, which take a martial arts-style approach to enhancing bike handling skills across diverse proficiency levels while also incorporating essential elements such as traffic safety, bike maintenance and technology, first-aid, stewardship, and fitness in addition to existing youth programs.