Meet The New Rider # 1306 Dave Balay

 

Introduction: My Journey into Motorcycling

My journey into motorcycling began at eleven years old and quickly grew into a lifelong passion. I was drawn to the sense of freedom, focus, and connection that only comes from being on two wheels. Over the years, riding has become more than a hobby—it’s a way of grounding myself, exploring the world, and challenging my own limits.It is the only time I feel truly alive.  From winding mountain passes to open prairie highways, each ride reminds me that life’s best moments are found off the beaten path.

Why I’m Drawn to the Hoka Hey Challenge

The 2026 Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge represents everything I love about motorcycling—endurance, integrity, and purpose. It’s not  race; it’s a test of character and spirit. The idea of navigating thousands of miles across North America using only basic directions speaks to my sense of adventure and resilience. I’m inspired to take part because the Hoka Hey is as much about personal growth as it is about the road—it’s about discovering what you’re capable of when you strip everything down to the essentials and keep riding forward.

Riding with Purpose

As I prepare for the 2026 challenge, I want my journey to mean more than just miles and memories. Riding long distances has taught me that endurance has purpose when it’s tied to something bigger than yourself. That’s why I’m dedicating my effort to raising awareness and support for an organization whose mission resonates deeply with me: Spirit North.

About Spirit North and Why It Matters

Spirit North is an Alberta-based charity that uses sport and outdoor adventure to empower Indigenous youth and communities across Canada. Through programs that build confidence, connection, and leadership, they help young people discover their own strength and potential. I believe in what they’re doing because, much like motorcycling, their work is about freedom, movement, and transformation. Supporting Spirit North means helping the next generation find their own path forward—and that’s a ride worth taking.

I am looking forward to meeting the other Hoka Hey participants. Come on August 2026.! 

-Handsome Dave 

Meet The New Rider # 1336 Marcus Radloff

 

Marcus Radloff here, otherwise known as JUG. I grew up in Central Wisconsin and fell in love with motorcycle culture during our family's summer trips to the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.

 

 

 

After 9/11, I enlisted in the Army Reserves serving in Iraq, Afghanistan, and later mobilized during Operation Allies Welcome.  After 21 years of service, I hung up the uniform in 2023.  Following my second deployment, I bought my first touring bike and have been exploring the country on two wheels ever since. Today, I continue to serve the Department of the Army as a civilian and reside Wisconsin’s driftless region.

 

 

 

I first discovered the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge in 2020 and was instantly hooked. I spent that summer tracking riders online and told myself, "One day, I'll do that”.  After navigating major life changes, I knew 2026 was the year to finally take on this challenge.

 

 

 

For my 2026 ride, I'm fundraising for Mile Monsters Inc., a charity I've been involved with over the years. Our mission is simple: to help kids live their best lives. We take on epic motorcycle challenges to raise money and awareness for boys battling Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD).  DMD is a rare and fatal disease that destroys muscle and robs these young boys of their independence. But the boys we ride for never quit. They fight an unrelenting battle every single day. As long as they fight, we will fight with them and be their Monsters. These boys aren't just names on our jerseys—they are our family.

Mile Monsters Inc - https://www.milemonstersinc.com/

Fundraising link - https://givebutter.com/HH2026/marcusradloff1

Meet The New Rider # 1324 Kimberly Mathes and her Husband Terry Mathes #1000T

 

🏍 My name is Terry Mathes, and I am known to many as rider #1000T. Having retired from the military and now enjoying my passion for motorcycle riding, I find deep meaning in these experiences. 

2026 will be my fourth Hoka Hey journey — a challenge I have successfully taken on two times before, ending the last due to an accident. This year is especially meaningful as I’ll ride alongside my wife, Kimberly Rider #1324, supporting her on her first Hoka Hey adventure.

🦿🦿Hello, I am Elleesa “Kimberly” Mathes, the first double amputee to participate in the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge in 2026. 

My journey began in 2019 when I lost my right leg at the knee due to a life-altering accident. After two challenging months in the hospital and battling stage 4 non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma in 2021, my dream of riding again fueled my determination. In 2023, I made the difficult decision to amputate my left leg below the knee. On October 8, 2025, I will become a bilateral above-the-knee amputee due to unresolved issues with my left knee from that original motorcycle accident.

I am ready to prove that “Defeat is not my Destiny” with the support of my husband, Terry Mathes, Rider 1000T. 

Since my accident, I’ve embraced life as a wheelchair user, sometimes completely reliant on it. In 2024, after my insurance denied a power wheelchair with an elevating seat, I found incredible support from the Permobil Foundation by way of assistance in obtaining my Permobil F3 power chair which allows me freedom that be more independent. 

🎉🎉Terry and I have chosen the Permobil Foundation as our fundraising charity for the 2026 Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge. 🎉🎉

To learn more about the Permobil Foundation please follow the link below. 

The Permobil Foundation is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization committed to helping people with disabilities live life with greater independence and mobility. When insurance says “no,” we step in to say “yes”—funding wheelchairs, parts, and repairs for individuals denied access to essential equipment. We partner with grassroots disability organizations nationwide to fuel their missions and extend our reach. You can learn more about the lives we impact here: https://permobilfoundation.org/

Meet The New Rider # 1274 Becky Whitley

 2026 HOKA HEY CHALLENGE
WHO AM I
My name is R.E. Becca (aka Rebecca “Becky” Whitley), originally from Pensacola, Florida,
now residing in Pittsboro, NC. Hoka Hey #1274, Tour of Honor Flag #612, and Iron Butt
#86969. My zest for riding has increasingly shifted to long-distance riding with grand
anticipation of more miles to come. Growing up in a neighborhood full of dirt-bike riders, it
was inevitable at age 12 that I would carry the love of motorcycle riding throughout my
lifetime. Transporting my head and heart while riding to another level seems to be both
gratifying, yet challenging, all at the same time.

WHY THE Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge
I, like everyone learning the parameters of the HOKA HEY CHALLENGE, instantly thought
sheer madness! However, there seemed to be an exciting nudge of, “I’m going to give that
a try,” that came over me. After delving into the challenge, I am filled with the courage,
strength, and the staying power required, coupled with the willingness to push myself
beyond my limits and the stamina for such a remarkable undertaking. I am proceeding
forward in preparation for 2026.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Good for everything going on inside each of us, the HOKA HEY CHALLENGE is just that and
one of the highest order. Going beyond all moto-fashions and sub-genres: the adventure
riders, endurance riders, bikers, sport riders, touring riders, classic riders, and scooter
riders, the HOKA HEY CHALLENGE is one where LIVING A GOOD LIFE IS ENTIRELY UP TO
YOU!

Meet The New Rider # 1349 John Anderson

 

 

I’m a total motorcycle enthusiast and have been riding for most of my life. I do not have brand loyalty so as long it has two wheels, it’s cool in my book. I’ve been riding in long distance events for the last five years and am addicted to scavenger hunt type rides.

 

 

 

I want to ride in the Hoka Hey because I enjoy long distance events that have unique rules. The Hoka Hey is a challenge I’m looking forward to as I’ve never spent that many consecutive days or miles without sleeping inside. This is a challenge that excites me and I’m looking forward to the adventure.

 

 

I’m not the fund raising type but will give money to the Gary Sinise Foundation. I saw the Lt. Dan Band in 2000 while I was on active duty and have been inspired by the way Gary gives back to veteran charities.

Meet The New Rider # 1264 Robin Hellinger-Kenney

 

 

 

About Me
My name is Robin Kenney, and I’m a proud motorcyclist, adventurer, and passionate advocate for giving back to my community. Riding has always been more than just a hobby for me—it’s where I find freedom, focus, and strength. The road has taught me resilience, pushed me through challenges, and gifted me with a community of riders who share the same love for two wheels and open skies. I’m not just a rider; I’m someone who believes that every mile can hold meaning, and that sometimes the road teaches us more than we could ever imagine.

 

 

 

Why You Want to Ride Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge
I first learned about the HH in 2010 and that began my interest in hoping to partake in such an amazing challenge! Taking on the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge is about more than just miles. It’s about testing my endurance, facing the unknown, and finding strength in the journey itself. I know there will be moments of exhaustion, doubt, and struggle—but those are the moments that remind me why I ride. I want to show that even when the road is hard, we can keep moving forward. I also want my miles to matter, to tell a story of perseverance while making a difference for people who need it most, including myself.  Riding the HHMC gives me the chance to put my passion for motorcycling toward a greater purpose, transforming each mile into a message of resilience and hope.

 

 

 

About Your Non-Profit
I have chosen to ride in support of two different charities.  The first one is Unity Outreach of St. Augustine, Florida, a non-profit dedicated to supporting individuals and families impacted by breast cancer. This cause is deeply personal to me because I’ve seen firsthand how this disease doesn’t just affect the person fighting—it ripples out, touching families, friends, and entire communities. Unity Outreach steps in during some of the hardest moments, offering not only awareness and education but also compassion, support, and a sense of hope when it’s needed most. And even more importantly, 100% of their proceeds go directly to those in need.

 

 

The 2^nd charity I am riding for is The Mile Monsters, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting seven extraordinary heroes living with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. I chose them because they embody a level of strength most people will never be asked to find. Duchenne is relentless, but so are these kids. They face each day with courage, grit, and a will to live fully—despite a diagnosis that tries to limit their future. Their fight puts everything into perspective 

 

 

 

Why You Chose Them / How Funds Will Be Used
The funds raised through my ride and Bourbon Basket Raffle will go directly toward Unity Outreach’s mission—providing mammograms and early detection screenings, financial assistance for families in need, and vital emotional support for those navigating this fight. Every dollar goes toward making sure no one in our community faces this battle alone. By riding the Hoka Hey for them, I hope to shine a light on their work and remind people that we all have the power to turn our passions into purpose. Every mile I ride will be in honor of the warriors, survivors, and families who inspire me to keep going.

Monies raised for the Mile Monsters, will go directly toward helping these heroes live their best lives—providing essential equipment, adaptive resources, and meaningful experiences that offer greater independence, comfort, and joy. Every mile I ride is for them. When the challenge gets heavy, I’ll carry their strength with me, turning exhaustion into purpose and miles into impact.

 

Link to Unity Outreach Website to Donate: Unity Outreach – Unity Pink Ride – Ride for a worthy cause

 

Link to Mile Monsters charity to Donate: https://givebutter.com/HH2026/robinkenney

 

Sponsors so Far:

 

Hightail Hair Affiliate code for 10% off: Hightail Motorcycle Hair Protector – Hightail Hair

Daytona Helmets: https://daytonahelmets.com/discount/Floridamototripping

Daytona Helmets

Florida Moto Tripping Facebook: (2) Facebook

Florida Moto Tripping Instagram: Instagram

Florida Moto Tripping YouTube: (305) Florida Moto-Tripping - YouTube

 

Thank you!

Robin "Bandit" Kenney HH#1264

772-812-1036

Meet The New Rider # 1240 Ray Cimino

 

I’ve been riding for over 20 years, and for the past decade, long-distance trips have become a defining part of my life. The road isn’t just where I travel—it’s where I reflect, recharge, and reconnect. Riding has taught me endurance, humility, and the power of movement, both personal and collective. Whether I’m cruising solo or rolling with a crew, every mile is a reminder of why I ride: for clarity, for community, and for the stories that unfold along the way.

 

As a certified MSF RiderCoach for the state of Rhode Island, I take pride in helping new riders build confidence and ride with purpose. Teaching safety and skill isn’t just a job—it’s a way to give back to the riding community that’s shaped me. I believe in leading with heart and humor, and I bring that same energy to the classroom, the road, and my work as a union organizer.

 

 

Each year, I make the journey to Washington, D.C. for Rolling to Remember (formerly Rolling Thunder), honoring veterans and embracing the spirit of solidarity. I jump at any chance to ride through Tennessee, North Carolina, and West Virginia—those winding roads feel like home. And when I can, I head west to Sturgis, where the ride meets the roar of community. Riding isn’t just what I do—it’s part of who I am.

 

 

In 2026, I’ll be taking on the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge—a test of endurance, grit, and heart. It’s not just a ride; it’s a personal quest. I’m pushing myself to the edge physically, mentally, and emotionally. The Hoka Hey is about more than miles—it’s about meaning. It’s a journey that demands discipline, resilience, and a deep respect for the road and those who ride it.

 

 

I’m riding this challenge to raise money for NEADS, a nonprofit that trains world-class service dogs for people with disabilities, including veterans and first responders. I chose NEADS because their mission touches something deep in me. Dogs have a way of reaching people in ways words can’t—they offer comfort, confidence, and unconditional support. They don’t just serve. They heal. They make the world feel a little less heavy, and a lot more hopeful.

 

 

NEADS provides these incredible dogs at no cost to the people who need them most. But that kind of care takes time, expertise, and funding. Every dollar raised helps train and place more dogs with those whose lives will be forever changed. That’s why I’m riding—to raise awareness, to raise funds, and to make sure more people get the support they deserve.

 

 

 

Thanks for taking the time to read this. I’ll be sharing more soon about how you can support the ride, the mission, and the miles ahead.

With gratitude and grit,  

Rider #1240

Ray Cimino