We had the good fortune of connecting with Marcus Cosby and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Marcus, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
The thought process behind ATL Extreme Watersports began with wanting to bring extra fun on the water to the metro Atlanta area. Lake days with the family can be exhausting and time consuming though very enjoyable. We wanted to ease the burden of loading all the equipment up, pulling the trailer, and launching the boat by providing a one stop shop for watercraft rentals. We wanted to provide extreme watercraft that’s uncommon to the average lake goer, that’s why we offer units like the SeaDoo Switch pontoon boat, SeaDoo Spark Trixx jetski, and the Kymera Electric Bodyboard. Along with that, we plan to extend our fleet of extreme watercraft rentals as well.
The need for an extreme watercraft rental company was there. Lake Allatoona doesn’t have much competition in this niche so it makes sense on the business planning side as well.
Secondly, we wanted to leave a legacy for our family. Something that can be passed down and appreciated over generations.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
While serving in the Air Force for 10 years, I trained to become a firefighter. After my military career, I changed uniforms and began working for the Dept of the Air Force as a civilian, doing the same job, firefighting. In between the time of me transitioning from military to civilian life, I did a few contract jobs in Iraq and Afghanistan during Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. Firefighting is one of those things that chose me. I didn’t choose it. I love everything there is to love about my profession. Simply being that person to help someone during their chaotic time. Very satisfying!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
First stop would be the battery, Truist Park. Plenty to do there and could even catch a Braves game. From there, maybe Ponce City Market to grab something to eat. Anywhere in Midtown would be the night life. Atlanta has plenty to offer and way too much for me to list here.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
The first shoutout would have to go to my family for the continuous support in all of my business ventures. Secondly, as a Air Force Veteran, I’ve utilized the numerous programs that the military provides to Veterans to jump start entrepreneurship ( Boots 2 Business). Without access to the resources that the programs provide, I wouldn’t be as prepared as I am to be a business owner. Big shout out to B2B program and all Vets!
Lastly, big shoutout to Charleston, West Virginia. That’s the place that made me be the prideful, focused driven hard working individual that I am today. That place has taught me to recognize an opportunity, and when opportunity is presented, take it and capitalize.

Website: atlwatersports.com

Instagram: @atlwatersports

Twitter: @atlwatersports

Facebook: @atlwatersports

Other: TikTok: atl.extreme.watersports

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