Meet The Returning Rider # 618 KC Aston

 

 

 My name is K.C. Aston, Hoka Hey Rider #618. This will be my 9th Hoka Hey Challenge. I was drawn to the Hoka Hey because of the attention it was to bring to the Pine Ridge Reservation.

 

 The past Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge have supported many native American tribes and I'm eager to help the Prairie Band Potawatomi Band, specifically the Boys & Girls Club (this years HHMC's chosen charity).

 

 

 I'm looking forward to seeing my HH family of riders and meeting all the new riders for their first challenge.

 

 If I have any pearls of wisdom, it would be REST WHEN YOU'RE TIRED, DON'T WAIT UNTIL YOU'RE EXHAUSTED. This journey will bring new incite to your lives and perhaps the way you live. See you in Woodstock. Be safe and ride safe!

 

 

Meet The Returning Rider # 1179 Danielle Stansell

 

 

 My name is Danielle “PopOff” Stansell, I am originally from Los Angeles, California and currently
moved back to North Carolina from Bavaria, Germany. I finally retired 22 years in the United States
Army on December 1st, 2025. I have been riding motorcycles since the age of 16, just over 26 years and
currently own a 2010 Harley Davidson Road Glide, a 2018 Harley Davidson Road King Special and a 2024 Pan American. I have not always rode Harley’s, I actually started out on a Suzuki GSXR650 and
GSXR1000. I graduated from sports bikes about 13 years ago when I realized it would be far more
comfortable to travel long distances on a cruiser.

 

 

 I have been a MSF Rider Coach since April 2015 and continue to work as a rider coach on Fort Bragg Instillation and Fort Bragg Harley Davidson. I take pride in being able to share my love of motorcycles others and sharing skills they will need along their journey.

 

I have had the privilege of riding to Cabo San Lucas in 2019 and riding the lower 48 states in a single ride
in 2022, I think those were a couple of my more memorable solo rides. I’ve completed several IBA 1000
and 1500 mile rides and even completed the IBA I-10 End to End/50 CC ride in about 43 hours. I am not
going to say I am an adventure junkie, but I will say that outside of scuba diving, riding a motorcycle and
exploring new places are my favorite things to do.

 

 

 While living in Europe I have rode through 26 countries and even completed a few IBA rides there. I also had the privilege of riding in 8 countries through Southeast Asia. In 2025, I said I was going to ride in Africa and was blessed with the chance to traverse the dirt roads of Kenya.

 

I have previously ridden and completed the 2024 Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge, where we
rode from Daytona, Florida to Key West, FL to Homer, Alaska. I wanted to ride the Hoka Hey Motorcycle
Challenge to be able to further improve upon seldom utilized means of traveling. While I already carry a
tent in my saddlebag during my travels and put it up as needed, being able to take part of an adventure
that will allow you to see more of back roads than highways will give the opportunity to see the things I
may have missed otherwise seems like the perfect adventure. The word challenge in and of its self is
something that will be an amazing accomplishment to achieve once able to cross the finish line again in
2026. This challenge will put me in the presence of so many other riders that love riding long distances
and I hope to be able to learn new tricks and new tools I’ll be able to use along my journey. This second
opportunity to participate in the Hoka Hey will allow me to further my skills and enjoy another amazing
adventure.

 

The non-profit organization that I have elected to support is “Abundance Educational Institute”.
This particular organization is something that is near to my heart because aJer being in the military for
an extended period of time and having the opportunity to complete my master’s degree in Elementary
Education and want to do something that aides those that need it in their forward progress in education
and life. Abundance Educational Institute is a school that touched my heart because it is a place that
was started to give those in urban settings the chance at an equal education as their peers. The money
raised will help provide support on the educational needs of both the students and the school. Our
hope is to build a lasting relationship of support.
Sponsors:
Evolve Clothing Brand Left lane bullie.com
Fundraising Link: Hoka Hey for Education

Meet The Returning Rider # 1205 William Boekholder

 

William "Bookie" Boekholder

Hometown Freeport IL

 

 

Retired

Age 64

Married 39 years

Two sons, both married

Two grandkids 

 

 

 

USAF Veteran

Ride a 2016 Victory Cross Country Tour

This year I'll be riding for the Darkhorse Lodge again.

 

 

 

Meet The Returning Rider # 1131 Jimmy Burns

 

My name is Jimmy Burns — road name “TACO.” I am returning to the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge for the second time, after completing my first challenge in 2024. When the Hoka Hey called to me in 2022 as a spectator, I knew it was something bigger than just a ride, and I had to be part of it. After crossing that finish line in 2024, I knew I had to come back in 2026.

 

I ride for a cause greater than myself — Mile Monsters Inc — and for our heroes battling Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Riding with purpose changes everything. The miles mean more. The adventure means more. The finish line means more.

 

I have a deep passion for motorcycles and have been riding since I was a kid thanks to my Dad who always ensured we had bikes and go fast stuff. Behind the bars of my bike is where I spend time talking to God, finding myself, and reconnecting with the part of me that only the open road can bring out. The Hoka Hey is good for the soul. It pushes me to grow, to heal, and to become a better man.

 

 

I’m a proud father of three incredible adult children — Payton, Allison, and Jax — who have grown into amazing human beings. My awesome wife Toni supports all my craziness and keeps me grounded in the things that truly matter and is my most favorite person on the planet and best friend. This year has already blessed us in a big way as we became first-time grandparents. On February 24th, our son Payton and our wonderful daughter-in-law Shelby gave us the greatest gift — our beautiful granddaughter.

 

 

When I toe the line in 2026, I won’t just be riding for myself. I’ll be riding for my family and for our Heroes fighting Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. for every mile that heals the soul, and for every lesson the road still has to teach me.

I look forward to seeing my Hoka Hey brothers and sisters at the starting line — and again at the finish line in Woodstock.

Hoka Hey!
Taco – HH#1131

“Be The Example”

 

Fundraising Link Below:

https://givebutter.com/HH2026/jimmytoniburns1

Ride 4 Others | Mile Monsters Inc.

 

Meet The New Rider # 1102 Mike Dalske

 

Mike “Dunkel” Dalske: After spending 11 years in the US Army, Mike left the service and started a career in federal law enforcement, where he retired 21 years later. Mike’s full-time job now is supporting and promoting the Knees in the Breeze Foundation as its cofounder. He is currently living with his family in Pennsylvania, volunteering for various veterans’ groups and riding his Harley Davidson Road Glide as often as he can. Being a cofounder of the Knees in the Breeze Foundation has afforded him the opportunity to combine two things he enjoys; riding motorcycles and helping to promote better mental well-being.  

  

I haven’t been riding for what many consider “a long time”, but it has helped my mental well being more than I’ll ever be able to describe. I’ve been across the country numerous times and each ride holds special meaning to me. I’ve met some of the most amazing people and seen sites that most will only dream about. My quest to join the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge started about four years ago as I watched and followed all the riders and realized this was a new goal and challenge for myself. I’m looking forward to challenging myself, gaining new friends and seeing more of our great country.

 

The charity I’m riding and raising funds for is The Knees in the Breeze Foundation , which I cofounded in 2025. The Knees in the Breeze Foundation helps to support those who have given so much to protect our communities and our nation. Our nonprofit is dedicated to providing financial and emotional support to military veterans and first responders who are battling Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Anxiety, and Moral Injury. Through charitable donations and community-centered activities like motorcycle group rides, weekend retreats, in-person seminars, and direct support, we aim to reconnect these heroes with a sense of purpose, belonging, and healing. These programs not only create meaningful experiences, but also build lasting bonds that help reduce isolation and emotional stress. We are currently seeking sponsors to support our ongoing operations, allowing us to expand our outreach and continue offering critical services to those who need it most. Your sponsorship can help fund vital activities, cover retreat costs, and provide direct assistance to veterans and first responders in crisis.

Meet The New Rider # 1377 Franck Cruize

 

Hi my name its Francky, born in Paris France 🇫🇷 I have my first motorcycle (dirt bike ) at 10 years old and since I have always a motorcycle sometimes I have only motorcycle go to work whatever the time and distance I have travel in Europe ,after my military time ... come back to area Paris work in build the house in France 🇫🇷 and some country in Europe 

 

 I decided to change my life and begin a tattoo artist and decided to travel with my motorcycle in different country Africa, South America and finish in Caribbean at Saint Martin or Saint Marten 🇸🇽 for the dutch side, I meet my best friend Mickael #1184 and after deciding to live in USA at Nashville actually, Mickael talk to me about Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge we decided to do together but unfortunately 4 month before I  have a big crash in motorcycle and can't physically do the Hoka Hey 2024 I come at the start line with Mickael and do his logistics.

 

 When I have the confirmation 2025 I am completely healed I decided to do the 2026 because its something I need to do, something I feel I have miss to do it in 2025 (big regret but physically not healing)I love challenge and motorcycle its my drug my free mind I have visit in 5 years in USA 35 states for now in motorcycle and do few bike fest here and so some trip in motorcycle so I'm very excited to do 2026 and just for me enjoy Hoka Hey its something I need to do in my life its a challenge and I need for my peace of mind I don't have expectations and just want enjoy my trip and say yes I just do it !!! And same time meet the very nice people I have meet few in 2024 I can't wait to be in starting line see you there!!! Safe travels

Ridder

Meet The New Rider # 1028 Michelle Davidson

 

Rider #1028

Hi, my name is Michelle Davidson, and my road name is Tracker. I was born in Georgia and currently live in Punta Gorda, Florida, with my pet shrimp, Herbert Jr. I have a supportive hottie boyfriend, three children, and four grandchildren.

 

I am an adventurer by nature and relish challenges, especially when they include traveling. I started riding motorcycles and horses with my uncle as a small child and continued into my teens until an unexpected event changed the course of my life.

 

Three weeks before our wedding, my fiancé was killed in a motorcycle accident. Shortly after, I left home and set sail around the world in a 26-foot sailboat using a sextant and my ham radio license. Fortunately, we had just returned from a weekend camping and riding together before his passing.

 

 

While in port in Australia, I purchased a Suzuki motorcycle and spent a year refurbishing my boat and exploring. During my travels I also enjoyed surfing some of the best breaks in the world, always recognizing how many blessings I had in my life.

 

 

When I returned to the United States, I went back to school for nursing and became a Nurse Practitioner. Along the way I rode several different motorcycles, though I parked them many times to devote myself to raising my children while being a military spouse.

 

 

In 2014, with my children grown, I was finally able to relearn and practice long-distance riding again. In 2018, I found myself unexpectedly single and meeting incredible people all over the country on my motorcycle.

 

 

In 2019, I was involved in a motorcycle accident near my home when an elderly gentleman made a left turn directly in my path. I died that day. Through the grace of God, I returned from life support—and a brief heavenly glimpse—to continue epic adventures, riding distance, meeting people, and savoring tacos.

 

Most folks know me as a weird, nerdy biker chick with strong faith.

My Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge journey began when I met HHMC rider #1001, Kory Wilson, in 2022. I asked him about the numbers on his bike, and he kindly answered all my questions, sent me his tracker link, and encouraged me to apply. I found myself glued to the riders as they made their way across the country.

One might say I was hooked.

I applied, interviewed, and was accepted in 2023 for the 2024 ride. Unfortunately, my home was destroyed during Hurricane Ian, and I had to withdraw due to the rebuilding and insurance timeline.

 

I’m blessed that Beth and Junie gave me a new number to ride in 2026.

For me, the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge embodies the ultimate test of physical and mental strength—navigating unknown terrain without GPS, facing fuel challenges, 11,000 miles in 14 days, and digging deep into my faith when I find myself exhausted and resting my head on the ground next to Wilson, my road-glide Harley Davidson,  somewhere in this great country of America, appreciating the blessings in my life.

I am asking for prayers and support as I raise money for charities that I am passionate about and have carefully researched.

I will be supporting two non-profit charities with all funds going directly towards them.

The Fred Lang Foundation provides funds to advance mental health and recovery efforts in Charlotte County through Charlotte Behavioral Health Care for individuals with and without insurance. I was fortunate to know Margaret and Fred Lang, who dedicated their lives and legacy to improving mental health and recovery in our community.

https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/GQTUWJCX6ZKB8

As a Nurse Practitioner, I recognize how critical these services are in helping people find the hope necessary to change their lives when their paths seem unmanageable and hopeless. I have lost too many people to addiction, suicide, and mental health struggles. Please help me support a solution that makes a real difference.

The Mile Monsters provides support for a group of heroic boys living with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, an incurable disease that gradually takes away their ability to stand, walk, and participate in many of the things every child should experience. The organization helps raise funds to support these boys and their families, offset medical and life expenses, and provide opportunities for them to experience adventures and joy despite the challenges they face every day.

https://givebutter.com/HH2026/michelledavidson3

I have faith that, with God’s help and His plan, I will complete this challenge while helping others along the way.

And don’t forget to follow my track with my tracker!