I became aware of the Hoka Hey Challenge in 2010 on a flight from
Seattle to Miami. One of the riders was on the jet and explained what he
was about to attempt. I couldn’t imagine “why” and thought he was
crazy. I didn’t even own a motorcycle at that point but what I thought
was an insane adventure stuck in my head.
We
lived in Alaska at that time and for the next few summers my wife and I
would ride to the lower 48. When the 2014 Hoka Hey “Unfinished Business”
route was announced my son Josh and I decided we would ride and finish
it.
Sleeping outside is something I enjoy.
Running long distance sled dogs in Alaska gave me plenty of practice
doing that, however sleeping on the ground in the wilderness is a quite
different than sleeping on the ground at a 7-11. It only took a couple
of nights before Josh and I would happily dismount our rides and go to
sleep quickly on the asphalt, dirt, grass or picnic table.
Never
a fan of groups or organizations that tell me how or where to ride, the
Hoka Hey Community is much much more than that. The men and women are
true warriors and the best riders and people in the world. Several
veteran finishers were very helpful to us offering advice and tips. They
WANTED us to succeed.
My son and I had many
experiences on this adventure. Hallucinations happen. I discovered I can
ride while totally asleep, although I don’t recommend it. Some of the
best feelings I’ve ever experienced occurred. Some of the most
breathtaking and beautiful sights were witnessed. Yes, it is life
changing and you might just view everything differently afterwards.
My
favorite piece of advice came from warrior Roger Buis and it is also
practical in everyday life...”1) Change your socks and drawers daily. 2)
Use “Anti Monkey Butt” powder liberally and 3) Don’t sit on your nuts.
I am riding for the “One Spirit” program for Native American Indians.
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