MY LIFE MIKAYLA PARTON

Mikayla Parton is a professional mountain biker from Fort William. From riding her first trail bike in 2015 to placing fifth at the UCI Mountain Bike World Championships just five years later, Mikayla’s story has been one of rapid succession. Mikayla also works as a soap scientist for The Highland Soap Company and has been part of the Nevis Range Ski School team for many years, working as an instructor in the winter months.

First record bought?

Unfortunately, I used to be a huge One Direction fan; it’s a part of my life I like to forget.

Book that changed your life?

I’ve never been a huge reader and can’t say a book has ever changed my life but I did enjoy listening to Training for the new Alpinism recently.

Most expensive purchase?

My van, no regrets.

First job?

I worked at a hotel in the village I grew up in, changing beds and cleaning.

Favourite time of day?

My morning coffee time.

Last time you cried?

Probably the last time I watched a sad dog video on Facebook.

Worst fashion faux pas?

I wear very questionable outfits daily, comfort over fashion.

Favourite holiday destination?

Pila, Italy.

Idea of holiday hell?

Probably a holiday with no activities, I can’t sit still.

Biggest phobia?

Spiders.

What are you watching on TV?

First Dates.

Favourite movie?

Madagascar.

How do you relax?

Chocolate and a cup of tea.

Best advice you’ve been given?

Don’t take criticism from someone you wouldn’t take advice from.

Who you last spoke to on the phone?

My cat, Hamish.

First thing you did this morning?

Ate a big bowl of porridge.

Worst mistake?

Trying to please people who didn’t deserve my kindness.

Your inspirations?

Rachel Atherton, Casey Brown (professional mountain bikers) and many more.

Would most like to meet?

Tom Jones.

Childhood crush?

Bruno Mars.

Weirdest fan gift (or present you’ve received)?

I was recently given some baking measuring cups shaped like cats – they even have feet!

Quirky habits?

I sleep with a pregnancy pillow (V shaped pillow) every night and I even take it travelling with me. It is definitely the most travelled pillow. Not pregnant, by the way.

Worst meal?

Olives in anything.

What makes you laugh?

Pretending to speak for animals, like the birds in our garden.

Most embarrassing moment?

Probably passing out on a high school trip to Paris.

Sean Connery or Daniel Craig?

Sean Connery.

Beauty is?

A sunny day in Scotland with a Sammie’s chippy in hand.

Some of the characters in the movie Madagascar.