No Ordinary Life: A Conversation with Magnus Manson

At DHaRCO, we love riders who do things their own way and Magnus Manson is the perfect example of that. From racing to navigating one of life’s toughest battles, he’s shown nothing but resilience, honesty, and a deep love for life on two wheels.

We had a chat with Magnus to find out what No Ordinary Life means to him, how riding keeps him grounded, and what little things bring him the most joy these days.

 

No Ordinary Life is more than a motto

What does ‘No Ordinary Life’ mean to you?

“To me, No Ordinary Life means living life the way I want to, not the way I feel like I am supposed to. A lot of people slowly let go of the things they care about, and over time their lives become ordinary. I try to hold tightly to what matters most to me, and those things continue to give the most back.”

 

Riding has always been central to Magnus

What does riding mean to you now compared to when you first started?

“Not much has changed! Riding a bike has always brought me into a state where my mind and body feel completely connected. It was the first time I experienced that kind of pure unity, and now as I grow older, I look for that same connection in other parts of life. Riding still brings me into the present moment like nothing else can. It frees me from worry, connects me with nature, and gives me shared experiences with so many others who ride.”

 

One of the most powerful parts of Magnus’ journey is his commitment to ride to and from treatments, when he can, he does.

You always mentioned how much riding to and from treatments has helped. Has this continued during these recent treatments?

“Yes, it really has! Riding to and from treatments is something I promised myself I would keep doing until the day I genuinely cannot. Some days I truly cannot, and I respect that my body needs rest. But often, I surprise myself with the energy to get there on my own, on the thing that brings me the most joy. When my story ends, I want to know I never turned away from what I loved, even while facing something so challenging. Choosing the harder path can feel like a lot sometimes, but there is nothing like the feeling of doing hard things. Riding my bike and feeling good has always seemed better than sitting in traffic, stressed and anxious. What do you think?”

 

His openness about treatments and hope for the future is moving, and a reminder of what strength really looks like.

Your inspiring resilience and the continued search for the best on and off a bike has you involved in new types of treatments. Can you tell us more about that and what it means for you?

“For the past three years I have been living with cancer while using treatments that aim to slow it down. With a lot of effort and the support of an amazing medical team, I have stayed active and breathing. Most people in my position do not usually make it this far with the same momentum. Recently we found a new and promising treatment that brings back the possibility of a cancer free life. That means everything to me. After so long of being unwell, I have come to appreciate how amazing it is to feel healthy. More than anything, I want more time on earth doing what I love with the people I care about. Not everything in this journey is within my control, but I am doing everything I can to give myself the best chance.”

 

Life these days is about staying grounded and finding joy in the simple things.

Can you tell us some of your favourite things to do day to day? We’ve seen you reference your dogs, maybe you can tell us a bit more about them?

“It always changes a little! But there are a few daily things that keep me grounded. I try to move every day, even if it is just a walk or a short ride. Cooking has become more enjoyable lately too. Maybe I am getting old... haha. I love being outdoors, especially in the garden during these sunnier months. At home, we have four dogs thanks to my mom’s love for them. They are a wild and dysfunctional little pack that keeps me on my toes. I also enjoy most sports. Since I have not been traveling as much in recent years, I have really come to enjoy these simple things that are easy to miss when life gets busy.”

 

Of course, we had to ask the most important question…

What is your most loved and least favourite food?

“Honestly, I think food is my favourite food! I will eat just about anything. I try to fill my plate with food that keeps me healthy, but I still enjoy the treats when the time is right. There are so many food options out there now. I love cooking at home with my family and trying new recipes. It is a pretty funny problem to have, loving all the different food so much.”

For anyone just starting out, Magnus gives his encouragement to give it a go!

What would you say to motivate new riders to get out there and start riding?

“I think most people do not know what they are missing! It might take a few tries to get comfortable, but like anything else, with a bit of practice and courage to push through your fears, you can start to really enjoy it. There are so many ways to begin riding now. You can start at a pump track, a small dirt jump park, or just a bumpy trail through a local park. It is easy to be inspired by the amazing athletes in this sport. Watching them can be exciting, but also helpful. Paying attention to how they move and learning from their technique can help new riders improve faster and enjoy the ride even more.”

 

Finally, we asked Magnus what his story means within the community and beyond.

From DHaRCO we feel considerably inspired by you, your resilience and your career. How do you think your story resonates within the riding community and beyond?

“I really appreciate the support from everyone around me, and from you all at DHaRCO. These days it is easy to write something and share your story online. In the beginning, I only wanted to share the good moments. But the past few years of ongoing treatment have been filled with a lot of hard times, and I did not always want to show that side of things. I have come to realize that being open about the tough parts gives people a real connection to what is happening. Cancer affects so many of us. I think everyone will know someone who faces it. I hope my story gives others some light or strength if they are going through it, and I hope it gives some perspective for those who are supporting someone they love. I am just doing my best to get through it all. I do not get to choose how the story is written, but I do get to choose how I experience it. And I am choosing to do that with grace, with gratitude, and with as much joy as possible.”

 

 

Thank you, Magnus, for living No Ordinary Life and showing us all what strength, honesty, and passion really look like.