My name is Michael Garrison, and I was born to race.

Before I came along, my parents were avid cyclists. They found freedom in riding tandems, participating in big events and rallies like Bicycle Ride Across Georgia (BRAG) and RAGBRAI. BRAG held a special place in their hearts, as it was where my dad proposed to my mom. Though they never raced, the bike was their outright source of adventure and joy.

When my brother and I arrived, a second tandem joined the family. My dad would ride with my brother, while I sat behind my mom, barely pedaling but soaking in the excitement. Some of my earliest memories are being towed around, enthralled by the excitement of being on a bike.

At 8 years old, I lost my father. Cancer sucks. In his memory, my mom, full of resilience, bought a three-seater bike, and together we headed to Iowa for RAGBRAI. Over seven days, she rode more than 400 miles with me and my 11-year-old brother in tow. I look back with awe at her strength and determination. That week, surrounded by the cycling community, planted the seed of my passion for the sport.

In the years that followed, my bike became more than just a way to get to school or meet up with friends. It became a connection to the world. The competitive spark first ignited when I joined the youth program at the Dick Lane Velodrome in Atlanta. I was terrified of the track at first, but I quickly became hooked on the adrenaline and challenge of racing.

I started riding more, seeing my brother make his way into road cycling events and me following suit. The Atlanta cycling community became a second family, offering mentorship and camaraderie that extended beyond the bike. Together, we worked, struggled, and celebrated. I saw my efforts pay off, gaining results that fueled my confidence.

Cycling soon became my life. At 16, I traveled to Europe for the first time, representing my country. Over the next two years, I raced with the largest U.S. junior teams, culminating in my first professional contract with one of the most storied development teams in the world, Hagens Berman Axeon.

In the last year, feeling like I could never put the pieces of the European racing puzzle togehter, I needed a change. With the support of my greatest mentors and friends -Nikki and Chad- we started an independent program, Michael Garrison Racing (MGR). Fueled by joy and a deep love for racing, we are targeting the most diverse racing calendar in history. This project is built on an unwavering passion for the bike, a commitment to community, and a dedication to forging meaningful connections.

The bike has taken me across continents, introduced me to lifelong friends, and taught me invaluable lessons in discipline, perseverance, and respect. Bike racing is a rollercoaster of emotions – it lifts me to the highest highs and drags me to the lowest lows. But every twist and turn makes me stronger.

I live to race.