Mountain Biker T.J. Mandeville Rides Relentlessly, Day After Day

Talon “T. J.” Mandeville, an 18-year-old with high-functioning autism, has accomplished an impressive feat by biking every day throughout 2024. He logged an astonishing 479 hours and pedaled 3,600 miles, culminating his achievement by celebrating New Year’s Day alongside his Sedona School Mountain Bike Club teammates on the Big Bug Trail near Mayer.

Reflecting on his journey, Mandeville shared, “It wasn’t hard to do it last year; it was just fun.” He acknowledged moments of temptation to abandon his goal, especially during inclement weather, but was determined to persevere. His passion for biking ignited when he joined the Sedona School Mountain Bike Club in July 2023, where he received a bike and vital support to begin his biking adventure.

“T.J. joined the Sedona School Mountain Bike Club and had never really ridden his bike much. He wasn’t really in shape and had to come with his dad to speak for him because of his autism,” Head Coach Eric Mace explained. “He’s embraced cycling and has become an integral part of the team, learning to communicate effectively without his dad’s presence.” Mandeville tends to steer clear of extreme trails, opting instead for routes that allow him to maintain a steady pace.

Aside from biking, Mandeville has a keen interest in nature. His mother, Jeanna Mandeville, revealed, “T.J. spends many hours viewing local maps, memorizing the landscape and trails.” She noted that his first word was “leaf” and expressed his desire to work in the forest service, focusing on building and maintaining bike trails.

Mandeville is also an amateur photographer, earning awards at the Verde Valley Fair and selling his work locally. He pursues his education through Mingus Union High School online and balances part-time work at Thunder Mountain Bike in Sedona. “His passion for biking is why we brought him here,” said sales associate Gigi Stowell, recalling their first meeting at the Mountain Bike Festival. Stowell praised Mandeville’s work ethic, stating, “He washes bikes like a beast,” efficiently preparing them for customers.

The Sedona Mountain Bike Club is part of a larger network of bike clubs across Arizona, encompassing over 1,200 students in grades six through 12. The club promotes personal growth and life skills through mountain biking, with five competitive races each season for interested students. For those less inclined to race, opportunities for camping and outdoor adventures are available.

Stowell noted Mandeville’s transformation since starting his job, saying, “He doesn’t talk too much to a lot of people, but he’s become more vocal with us. His passion for mountain biking has enabled him to connect with others here, growing as an individual in the process.” Mandeville dreams of riding in every state and can be followed on Facebook and Instagram at @BaconInThisHeat.