About The Foundation:

In Memory of James Musil
1987 – 2022

James Musil, 35, passed away tragically on Saturday, October 15, 2022, at Munson Medical Center in Traverse City following a mountain biking accident at the Commons/Copper Ridge, where he was training for an upcoming event.

James was a passionate and dedicated mountain bike racer, deeply connected to the biking community. His goal was to race professionally, with aspirations of one day competing on the international stage.

James lived life with intensity, always striving to grow, improve, and push himself to new limits. Mountain biking was not just a sport to him—it was his true calling. Anyone who knew James could see the joy it brought him. Whether he was competing or simply out on the trails throughout Michigan, James was fully alive when he rode. He found equal joy in helping others—encouraging fellow riders to go faster, train harder, and believe in their own potential. In pushing others, he also pushed himself to become better.

James’s race history reflects both his talent and dedication. He competed in events such as:

  • Rust Shaker at MidMichigan College – 3rd Place, Sports Division

  • 8 Hours of Jailhouse Trail, Ithaca, MI – Team Event

  • Crystal Mountain – 2nd Overall

  • Marquette Trails Fest

  • Miners Revenge

  • DTE Energy Foundation Trail

  • Copper Harbor Trails Fest

  • Marquette Fall Enduro

  • Placed 12th overall in the Male Sport Enduro division of the Lake Superior Gravity Series

In honor of James’s life and passion, a foundation has been established to carry on the work he believed in and the community he loved.

Our Mission

The James Musil Foundation is committed to preserving James’s legacy by supporting and growing the sport he loved. Our mission focuses on:

  • Trail Advocacy – Preserving existing trails and supporting the development of new ones

  • Safety Awareness – Promoting helmet use and responsible riding practices

  • Youth Support – Encouraging and mentoring young riders as they develop their skills

  • Community Engagement – Building a stronger, safer, and more inclusive trail community

Through these efforts, we aim to inspire others to ride with the same heart, courage, and dedication James brought to every trail.