"There is a big difference between you live so far away and I don't envision myself ever going there and I can get there just by pointing my motorcycle that way." And that is what makes the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge riders different than many others. Paco is an Indian rider and has been asked by Indian to represent the long distance rider for Indian. "I want to be THAT kind of inspiration for those who think they want to try something like this."
January 1 Paco started physical training to prepare for the challenge knowing he needs to have the strength to pick up his own bike if that is required. Eating well and reducing his intake of caffeine are a couple things that will give him an advantage while out riding in July. Expecting to struggle in 2016 it wasn't until he reached North Carolina that he was sure he could finish. He wrestled with his mind telling him to quit, when things got tough he had to really fight with his self doubt. He remembered a quote he had heard from a board member who said "The only person who can take you out of the HHMC is yourself." That rattled around in his head for 12 days but determination got him to the finish line.
It was HHMC rider and now brother Robert who first encouraged Paco to try the challenge. He had created quite a laundry list of reasons he could not do the event and Robert told him to put them aside and just do the ride. He does admit he will never ride in the state of Maine ever again because of the desolation, fog, rain and just utter struggle feeling he was at the end of his rope. But also admits without the challenges it would not be as rewarding as it is.
Paco will be joining other brother riders in supporting the Amvets Post 29
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