The Spirit of Hoka Hey

Everything that happens to us in life leaves some trace behind; everything contributes imperceptibly to make us who or what we are.  The greatest gift in life, is the gift of life.  Jim & I have been blessed with the most amazing family and friends anyone can possibly have... Thank you all for being there!  Cheers to you and to anyone that truly understands what we are trying to accomplish with the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge; to the quiet ones that don't contribute to the rhetoric and to the ones with the calming voice of reason (Thank you Pauline).

True; the HHMC has attracted some of the best competitors in the world - BUT - let us not forget that, from its inception, the event was meant to test the will and determination of the individual.  It was never intended to be a competition or a race and, in fact, the Terms & Conditions clearly state that it is a challenge of endurance, navigation, long distance riding skills and that participants MUST NOT COMPETE IN ANY MANNER.

By and large, our participants really do get that.  It is the spectators and supporters that don’t seem to understand however and that fact truly saddens me.  I feel they have missed the point of the event entirely.

So… for them, I repeat once more that the theme of this year's ride is ‘Wolakota’.  Wolakota is a word in the Lakota language that means reconciliation, or understanding each other in a good and peaceful way.  It represents a way of living in peace and community with everything, abstaining from greed; treating one another with respect, and friendship.  To live Wolakota is to live a life of honor and integrity.  Living in accordance with this belief encourages people to step forward and take accountability; to work together to right the wrongs of this world and acknowledge the strengths and wisdom that all cultures hold in common. 

My respect and appreciation go to riders like Matt Wolf (#785), Tim Menzie (#670), Rich Griffith (#725) and any one else that took the time to stay back with other riders who were in need of assistance.  These Challengers knew they could place well in the field but chose to let go of their ego and take care of their brothers and sisters on the road.  You are what this event is truly all about.

Still, before they left New York, participants were told that the first 4 finishers would each receive an arrow as a trophy and that they could either keep the trophy or sell it back to us for a split of the entry fees collected.  After verifying that they followed the route according to the driving directions, we spoke with these top 4 contenders and it was understood that, a polygraph exam would have been required to prove or disprove that any one conducted themselves in any way contrary to the restrictions outlined in the Terms & Conditions.  Therefore, as promised in the Rider’s Briefing, the first 4 finishers (after Jeff Kohn DQ’d himself) were offered the trophy.  To a man, they chose to keep the arrow in lieu of prize money and we commend them.  In recognition of their effort we are offering these riders along with the rest of our top ten finishers $1,000 or their entry into the 2014 Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge!!!  

For crossing the finish line first we recognize:

     1.  Robert Crawford #50

     2.  Bubba Netherland #5

     3.  Rob Carlo, #341

     4.  Dan Buis, #8

The rest of our riders crossed the finish line as listed in the table below and we congratulate them for having the determination, stamina and skill required to complete this grueling ride of over 7,500 miles!!       

Rider #	First Name	Last Name	Nickname	Check-in Time	Check-in Date
5	Karl "Bubba"	NETHERLAND		12:46 PM	6/30/2013
50	Robert	Crawford		12:46 PM	6/30/2013
341	Robert	Carlo		12:04 AM	7/1/2013
8	Daniel	Buis		12:11 AM	7/1/2013
348	MARK	HODGE		5:34 AM	7/1/2013
628	Larry	Murray	DeadMan	8:42 AM	7/1/2013
750	George	Jackman		11:59 PM	7/1/2013
736	Billy	Fultz		1:15 PM	7/2/2013
332	Heinz	Spielvogel		7:18 PM	7/2/2013
190	Richard	Drake	Chris	11:29 PM	7/2/2013
650	jane	bixby		3:58 AM	7/3/2013
652	Schatzi	Brown		3:58 AM	7/3/2013
788	Edward	Frank		5:04 AM	7/3/2013
739	Frank	Zygela		9:04 AM	7/3/2013
207	Milton	Vincent	Bubba	10:44 AM	7/3/2013
116	Jim	Herold		12:46 PM	7/3/2013
67	Michael	Conner		12:49 PM	7/3/2013
618	Kenneth	Aston	KC   (Jumper)	5:31 PM	7/3/2013
670	Tim	Menzie		5:47 PM	7/3/2013
359	RIP	Alexander		8:38 PM	7/3/2013
725	Richard	Griffith		8:38 PM	7/3/2013
792	Scott	Chrispen	Critter	8:38 PM	7/3/2013
797	Chris	Parker		8:38 PM	7/3/2013
780	Randy	Black		8:52 PM	7/3/2013
793	JAMIE	WILSON		8:52 PM	7/3/2013
83	Lee	Smith	Problem Child	12:51 PM	7/4/2013
91	David	Lutes		12:52 PM	7/4/2013
342	William	Reynolds		5:58 PM	7/4/2013
685	Wendy	Battles	TA-TE	5:58 PM	7/4/2013
751	David	Elizondo		12:08 AM	7/5/2013
323	DALE	MARTIN	Daytona Dale	2:51 AM	7/5/2013
724	Arthur N.	Pond		2:51 AM	7/5/2013
646	Thomas	Schmidt		7:15 AM	7/5/2013
789	Kurt	Kvennejorde		8:15 AM	7/5/2013
794	Bob	Stegeman		8:15 AM	7/5/2013
782	Charles R.	Butler III	Eazy	7:52 PM	7/5/2013
752 & 755	Matthew Klebe	Kelly Babbin		8:31 PM	7/5/2013
664	Elvin	Angel	Al	11:20 PM	7/5/2013
709	Bradley	Mathews		11:20 PM	7/5/2013
383	Eula	Rose	Junie	11:20 PM	7/5/2013
85	Chuck	Marble		9:34 AM	7/7/2013
168	Jeff	Kohn	Rude Jeff	8:50 PM	6/30/2013
658	Bob	Vincent	PITA	3:33 PM	7/2/2013
290	Walter	Ledig		6:50 AM	7/3/2014
705	Paul	Mazza	rocky	4:00 PM	7/3/2013
186	Greg	Shafer	Morigderunner	12:00 PM	7/4/2013
779	Steve	Briscoe		4:04 PM	7/5/2013

  Finally… we all want what is best for HHMC going forward and that means that we cannot promote or condone the Challenge as a race.  As such, how the riders place is not where the focus of the event should lie and it has been decided that this year would set the precedence of awarding arrows to those who completed the Challenge in the spirit of Hoka Hey.  

For the attributes that most closely reflect the true spirit of the Wolakota, we recognize:

    1.   Mark Hodge, #348 – Black Arrow for RESPECT

    2.   Rob Carlo, #341 – Red Arrow for HONOR

    3.   Jeff Kohn, #168 – Yellow Arrow for INTEGRITY

    4.   Junie Rose, #383 – White Arrow for COMPASSION

Going in to the future, this is the format that we intend to use to recognize the true winners of the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge.  

A Year Like This

Not since 2010 have we had a year quite like this one.  I had thought we had all of the bugs worked out of the system when we went in to this year’s ride – but – whenever you coordinate something on this scale and involve as many people as the HHMC does, there are bound to be problem areas that smack you on the head and remind you that you don’t have all the answers.

This year’s checkpoints have been phenomenal though!!  We could not be happier with the responses we've gotten from the dealerships about our riders or from the riders about the checkpoints.  It seems as if everyone is enjoying themselves and is pleased to be a part of this great event.  It is this sort of positive feedback that has kept me going back for more of this madness 4 years running.  And in year’s like this, that feedback is more meaningful than ever.

 By “year’s like this”, I am referring to the fatal accident that cost the life of Rider #737, John Anderson and the terrible accident that landed our friend, Rider #612, Carla DuBois in ICU.   We all know the risk that is inherent to motorcycling but such platitudes don’t fill the void and cannot heal the injured.   So - we pray.  We come together and we try to prop each other up and to be strong for the ones who suffer, who worry, who grieve.

This has also been a tough year for us because it coincides with the birthday of our late son, Nick Durham - he would be 33 years old today.  Nick passed away in the spring of 2011 when complications from the flu turned in to pneumonia.  And though he was more of a surfer than a biker, he loved the HHMC as an expression of freedom and self-determination.  He was a bright, gregarious, thoughtful, adventurous young man when he was alive.  Now… He is sorely missed.

As I said, I don’t have all (any) of the answers but I do agree with the thought that life short and we need to live each day to the fullest.  Whether that means a free wheeling lifestyle or deeper more meaningful, purpose driven life is up to the individual.  But we should never let a day go by without saying “I love you” to our children, or taking time to enjoy the sunset.  We have to be take care that we don’t get so caught up in what’s at the finish line that we forget to enjoy the ride!

Hoka Hey

2013 Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge

The Organizers of the 2013 Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge are ready to get this show on the road!  The schedule is set, the maps are printed and now all we need are our riders!!

Wolf’s Run:  The start and finish of this year’s Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge will be in the heart of the Seneca Nation territory and our host once again will be Wolf’s Run Transport.  Located at 12795 Route 438, Irving, NY 14081 (716-532-4005).  Wolf’s Run is just 8 minutes from I-90 (New York State Thruway) Exit 58. 

Google Map to Wolf's Run

Google Map to Wolf's Run

Camping, restaurant, carwash gas station and convenience store are available on site but if you and your supporters would prefer to stay in a hotel, a LIST OF HOTELS near Wolf’s Run has been provided for your reference.

Registration and Kick-Off Party (June 21^st) Registration will be held on the 21st of June beginning at 8:00 a.m. by the Pavilion at Wolf’s Run.  Challengers will have a scheduled time to register which will be provided under separate cover.  To expedite the process, riders should arrive promptly with your (1) driver’s license, (2) motorcycle registration and (3) proof of insurance in hand.  Participants should have their tracking devices installed and bikes ready for inspection.  Bikes do not need to be packed since we only intend to verify odometer, VIN & tracking.  Late registration will be held from 9:00 a.m. to noon on Saturday June 22nd.

A reception for Challengers and guests is being held that evening in the Wolf's Run Pavilion from 6:00 to 10:00 p.m..  We will have food, drinks and door prizes so, be sure to join us and get to know your fellow Challengers before you hit the highway!  Buses will be available to take people to Cabana Sams and the Beach Club at Sunset Bay so you can keep the party rolling all night long!

Note: I am looking for a few volunteers (no participants please) to help with the registration and bike inspections.  Please give me a call (605-890-0386) or email me (beth.durham@hokaheychallenge.com) if you know someone who would be willing to help.

Rider’s Briefing (June 22nd): A mandatory Rider’s Briefing will be held in the Wolf’s Run Pavilion from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. on the 22nd.  This is a sit down meeting where we will go over the Terms & Conditions and rules of engagement followed by a chance to get all of your questions answered. Coffee and cold drinks will be provided to help you stay awake during this very important briefing!

Kick-off (June 23rd): The starting line will be held at Wolf’s Run precisely at 6:00 a.m. on June the 23rd.  Riders can stage their bikes there during the overnight hours and security will be provided so you can rest easy knowing that your scoot will still be there in the morning.

The convenience store at Wolf’s Run will be open at 5:00 a.m. for Challengers and anyone that would like to come out and see them off.  Everyone is welcome to join us at the start line to send Challengers on their way as they embark on a life changing ride through Canada and America!

Tracking, Route and Finish Line: Once again, families and supporters will be able to track your progress and locate you in the field of competitors through GPS tracking.  US Fleet Tracking will provide the only authorized asset tracking device for Challengers that are riding for the prizes and recognition.  If you don't already have a tracker from a previous Challenge, you should obtain your tracker now by calling USFT at 405/726-9900.  Please be sure to provide them with a picture of you or your bike as well as a bit of information about yourself so that folks at home can learn a little more about our Hoka Hey Challengers as they track your during the event!  Tracking will go live on your website (www.hokaheychallenge.com) on the 19th of June so tell your family and friends how they can check on your progress as you travel along the route!

If you intend to compete for prizes and recognition, you will have to have your US Fleet Tracking device installed and operational when you depart on Sunday morning.  US Fleet Tracking will not have a representative on site this year so any one that needs to install or troubleshoot their tracker, we recommend you call Gowanda Harley-Davidson (716-532-4584) to schedule an appointment.

Finally, riders will need to be able to receive text messages from the Hoka Hey Organization while out on the road.  To subscribe, please text “HOKAHEY” to 60259.  (If you are already signed up and receiving text messages from us, you need not repeat the process now).

Finish Line: For any one that comes in a bit early but just can't seem to get enough riding time...  the good times will be rolling all week long.  Starting on July 1st and running up to the day of the party!

• July 1st: Rest Day - All You Can Eat Crab Legs @ Cabana Sams
• July 2nd: Hoka Hey Cultural Ride through the Allegheny and Cattaraugus Territories.  Riders will tour the Seneca Nation Oil Springs Reservation where the 1st oil was discovered in the U.S. Tour the Seneca Museum, the Seneca Casino, and tour the City of Slamanca (the only city in the U.S. located on Native territory).  From there, they will tour the Cattaraugus Community Center, the Seneca Nation Beach, and Snows Landing.  In addition they will view the cigarette factories, library, the Wm Seneca Bldg., and the Bingo Hall.  This ride is expected to be approximately 150 miles long.
• July 3rd:  Hoka Hey Cultural Ride to the Tonawanda Seneca Nation Territory in Basom, NY to visit various shops.  On the Tuscarora Indian Reservation, riders will visit various shops, go to the Outlet Mall, Niagara Falls, with the final stop at Seneca Niagara Casino.  This ride is expected to be approximately 150 miles long.
• July 4th:  Gowanda Harley-Davidson Sponsored Ride.
• July 5th: Gowanda Harley-Davidson Ride to Rodeo in Ellicottville.

As always, the finish line will be open as long as we have riders on the road - BUT - Challengers will want to try to make it back in time for the End of the Road / Wolf's Run 25th Anniversary party which starts @ noon on the 6th of July!!  Hosted by Wolf's Run Transportation, you know there will be plenty of food and live entertainment to make this one of the most memorable experiences of your life!  You won't want to miss it!!

Hoka Hey!

 Bring your friends and share in the glory!

There is still time to get signed up!!

We would love to see more riders at the starting line on June 23^rd so tell your friends & family to contact us now to register for the event that continues to change lives & shape ideas!

 APPLY NOW!

Are you prepared to lose yourself in order to find yourself?

Are you at peace within?

Or are you still seeking?

*Please read all forms carefully before submitting your application package.