Meet The Rider # 987 John Russell

This will be my third Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge. My first challenge was in 2020 (smack dab in the
middle of the COVID fiasco), and I left 593 miles on the table after having an
accident, breaking my nose. My nose was fixed, including 12 stitches
accompanied by eight days of bruising to settle things out. It took about a year
until I could breathe normally again.

 

 Riding the 2022 HHMC, I finished with ELITE status, and again will be riding this year’s challenge with fundraising efforts going to the Warrior Foundation Freedom Station.  This wonderful organization provides valuable services for our military men and women who have given their all and come home needing assistance to get their lives on track again. My wife June and I have been in
support of this organization coming up on 10 years. As for riding, I have made a few adjustments, including a new bike (RG Limited versus a RG Special) and new riding lights to assist with nighttime rides. My focus this time around will be to make sure to get enough sleep so I am clear headed during this challenge. I look forward to riding alongside the other HH riders that I have met over the years,
including at the Rendezvous events. When it comes to packing, I’ve learned less is more, and on this year’s ride I will pack as light as possible.

 

 

 What I love most about this event is that the route is carefully handpicked by the elite riders of the
HH administration to include the best roads in the United States and Canada. This condenses all that riding has to offer into a 12-14 day trial. It is an absolute thrill! The course is set, and I will be on the ride for 2024! Hoka Hey!!!