B2B Trail User Spotlight: Brent McDermott

Trail User Spotlight: Brent McDermott

For Brent McDermott, the Border to Border (B2B) Trail has been more than just a scenic path—it has been a backdrop to some of the most meaningful moments in his life. From first dates to wedding vows, career shifts to community impact, Brent’s journey is inextricably linked to the trail’s winding miles through Washtenaw County.

A Relationship Built on the Trail

Brent and his now-wife first met in the spring of 2020, a time when outdoor spaces became more valuable than ever. Their first date took place in Saginaw Forest, setting the stage for many more walks, hikes, and runs along the B2B Trail as the summer turned to autumn. As their relationship grew, so did their connection to the trail, from monitoring the construction of the Delhi Bridge to morning coffee walks at Delhi Metropark.

On October 4, 2024, the couple celebrated their wedding at the Delhi Pavilion, a location that felt like a natural choice given their love of the outdoors. Before the ceremony, they took a quiet moment to walk the newly completed section of the trail with their dog, Jasper, rehearsing their vows and soaking in the significance of the day.

A Life of Running and Giving Back

Brent first moved to Ann Arbor in 2013 on a whim, not knowing anyone in the area. One of the first places he stumbled upon was the parking lot at Bandemer Park, which ultimately led him to meet neighbors and join a local running group. The B2B Trail became a training ground, a place for connection, and a constant presence in his life. From Riverside Park out-and-backs to informal pre-Strava challenges, the trail introduced him to a vast network of fellow runners.

 In 2018, he took over as race director for the Gallup Gallop, a 5K that took place exclusively on the B2B Trail. Even when he briefly moved to Massachusetts, Brent remained connected—one of the first things he did upon returning was attend the Dexter-Chelsea trail segment ribbon-cutting, deepening his commitment to the community and the trail’s future.

A Business With a Mission

As Brent’s professional life evolved, he sought to align his business with his values. In 2024, with his real estate business blossoming, he made a pledge: for every sale and commission, $250 would go directly to the Huron Waterloo Pathways Initiative (HWPI). His goal is to donate $6,250 in 2025 through 25 closings and ultimately reach a $10,000 contribution within three years.

[Insert picture of Brent with HWPI and check, secure original photo]

Beyond financial contributions, Brent is dedicated to rallying the community around the trail. He sponsors local athletic groups, including the Ann Arbor Triathlon Club, Velo Club, and the Huron 100 Ultra Marathon. He also hosts events like the Bandit Field Trip, on March 30, 2025. This is a point-to-point run from Argo Livery to Erratic Ale, where participants are encouraged to donate in lieu of a race fee. Learn more about that event here!

Brent believes in the power of merging private enterprise with public good. Whether through real estate, running, or community organizing, he exemplifies how one person’s passion can inspire widespread impact. As he puts it, “The quicker we can collectively finish the trail, the quicker we can overcome the obstacles in development.”

Looking Ahead

With his ever-loyal canine companion, Jasper—a 15-year-old shelter rescue from rural mid-Michigan—by his side, Brent continues to explore the trail that has shaped so much of his life. From his early days in Ann Arbor to his future plans for community impact, the B2B Trail remains at the heart of his story.

We’re grateful for trail users like Brent, who not only appreciate the beauty of the B2B Trail but also work tirelessly to enhance and expand it for future generations.

Want to learn more about Brent’s efforts? Check out his website: brentmcdermott.com Explore Bandit Races: banditraces.org/banditfieldtrip