Meet The New Rider # 1119 Rocky Sheaffer

Rocky Sheaffer Hoka Hey Rookie #1119.
Age: 54
Hometown: Cabot, Pennsylvania (My Hometown about 1 Hour North of Pittsburgh)
Married to my Best Friend Carol for 32 Years Unique fact we were actually Married on Leap
Year 2/29/1992
We have no children except for our Very Spoiled Pets Brandi a 10 year old Sheppard Mix, Sami
our 15 year old spoiled House Kitty, and Mittens our 4 Year old Wild and Crazy outside Cat. Our
Household also consists of my Wonderful supportive Mother in Law Connie and my Brother In
Law Rusty.
I work Full time for Limbach Company as a Special Projects Manager. We primarily perform
HVAC, Plumbing, and Controls Work for Healthcare and Mission Critical Customers. I am very
Fortunate to have the Full Support of this Awesome Company for My Hoka Hey Journey in
2024.

I grew up in a Foster Home due to some severe heath challenges I had growing up. And
although sometimes those are not the best situations, I was lucky enough to have Great Foster
Parents that were both supportive and loving in a stable home for my entire childhood with
them. My passion for Motorcycles began at the age of 7 when my Foster Dad bought me a
Honda Z50. It was in fact on that very mini bike I got pulled over my very first time for
unauthorized operation on a public highway. This particular office and I became very good
friends as a result of that encounter and until his passing several years ago kept in touch. It
wasn’t until around my 17th birthday that I started riding motorcycles more seriously. And from
then on I always had a motorcycle of some sort in the garage. My passion for the open road
only grew with time and now is often referred to as an obsession. I have participated in
different Challenges throughout the last few years such a Tour of Honor which allowed me to
expand my long distance efforts and actually secure a 1st Place Trophy for Pennsylvania and 10th
place overall finish in 2023. I completed my First Certified IBA Ride SS1K In 2022 and my most
recent BB1500 in 2024 and continue to hone my Long Distance skills with the help of many
seasoned veterans I have become friends with along the way.

Around 2019 my curiosity about bigger things began to spark and though following The Hoka
Hey Motorcycle Challenge and Iron Butt Rally I began to want for more in my Riding life. I am
fortunate to have a Close friend and Mentor in Rob Keller who has a long history with Hoka
Hey. After several conversations about Hoka Hey with Rob during different local events, and
hearing all of his Inspiring stories I decided that I wanted to give it my Best and Apply for the
2024 Challenge. Now that I have been accepted I am looking forward to this ride of a lifetime
and all that it holds in store for me.

As part of my 2024 Hoka Hey Challenge I have chosen Two Charities that are near and dear to
me. I have always chosen to Honor our Veterans, Active Military, and Fallen Soldiers. By riding
in different events honoring those that have done so much for us and allow us to enjoy the
Freedoms that we have. To that end I have chosen a local organization “Hero’s Angels” as one
of my 2024 Charities. Hero’s Angels is a 501c3 Non-Profit organization that raises money and
shows our appreciation for Deployed Troops and Other veterans by sending Care Packages to
them during their deployments. Hero’s Angels is run completely by Volunteers and their
Mission is dear to me.
Heros Angels Page 

 My qrcode
My second Charity of Choice is Mile Monsters Inc. Mile Monsters Inc. is a Non Profit 501c3
which hopes to Inspire and Motivate people to join us. We compete in crazy challenges and
races to raise both awareness and money to fight Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) DMD is
a very aggressive form of MD which typically affects young boys. It attacks their muscle groups
and will take their ability to climb stairs, run and even walk. It is our hope that by competing in
seemingly impossible events we can help these kids! We just want the kids to be kids. We work
very hard to showcase these kids. They may need some special equipment or Hero Hauling vans
to get them around town. Or they may need a new game console. It could be all they need is a
Biker in their corner. Whatever they need, we work to get. We support both the kids and the
families affected by DMD. WE ARE CHARITY RIDERS WHO STRIVE TO MOTIVATE AND INSPIRE!
Mile Monsters Inc.
HH24/Rocky Sheaffer
Facebook Profile page
I look forward to the Starting Line on Daytona and all the challenges along the open Road.
Rocky Sheaffer,
Hoka Hey Rookie #1119

Meet The New Rider # 905 William Coan

 I am William 'CONAN' Coan, U.S. Navy (Ret.), growing up in rural Michigan and enlisting
at 17. Earned my call sign 'CONAN' while serving in the Navy. With eight deployments
across 21 countries and personal travel to 49 states, my love for adventure endures.
Alaska will be my 50th state.

From a Honda C50 at age 7 to a Kawasaki Vulcan 750 in Florida, my motorcycle journey
evolved. In 2011, I adopted a FatBoy Lo and joined the veteran riding group 'Sons of
Poseidon.' My passion deepened in 2019 with the purchase of ‘Grimace’ a '19 CVO
Limited, perfect for long distant excursions.
In 2021, facing COVID challenges, Grimace and I embarked on a 6,200 miles trip from
Virginia Beach to Sacramento, CA, via HWY50. In 2023, I learned about the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge and eagerly signed up. After a suspenseful 11-month wait, I was
selected and assigned rider #905.

I don't believe in coincidences; there's always a purpose. At the Harley-Davidson
dealership to share my selection with friends, where I was introduced to Cory. Cory, who
would've been #905 in the ’24 Hoka Hey, had to withdraw due to his wife's health issues
that are very similar to my wife's past struggles. I've decided to fund raise to help Cory's
family with their expenses. This experience has reaffirmed my belief in meaningful
connections and the importance of offering support when needed.

My goal for the '24 Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge is clear: to savor the ride, embrace
the challenges, forge new connections, earn the coveted patch, and share the
adventure—a testament to a life abundantly blessed with family values and a cherished
circle of authentic friends.

 Angelina's Great Fight

 

Meet The New Rider # 1213 Ryan Brady

 My name is Ryan Brady, I live in the greater Spokane, Wa. area. I enjoy outside activities like
riding motorcycles and building things. I’m married to a beautiful loving wife, we have 5
grown children and 4 grandchildren. I have worked in the electrical industry for 34 years
around the Pacific Northwest.
I heard about long distance riding listening to the Wild Ass Podcast. Craig has interviewed
many of the top LD riders and just listening to their stories intrigued me. I took notes from
various interviews and Google searched my way to the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge. I have always
wanted to do something that others thought was nuts and is considered epic. I think this
motorcycle challenge will fit the bill and will test my skills.

                                        

I am a passionate supporter of the Spokane Fantasy Flight event and Northwest North Pole
Adventures organization that brings this event to life each year. For 27 years, Northwest North Pole Adventures has provided impoverished and at-risk children with a day of joy and
safety by leveraging the magic of Christmas. Upon their arrival at the North Pole, over 250
Elves and Guards bring celebration and much-needed essentials to these little ones. The
high point of their day includes a trip to sit with Santa on his sleigh and receive the bag of
gifts that Santa has selected for them from their actual wish list. At the end of their evening,
the visiting children and I listen as Mrs. Claus reads “The Polar Express” by American
author Chris Van Allsburg reminding everyone of the spirit of giving and the magic of belief.
It is at that moment that I am reminded that my Hoka Hey challenge is like the challenges
experienced by these children. I ride for the more than sixteen hundred (1600) children that
have been embraced by this event.

Meet The New Rider # 1131 Jimmy Burns

My name is Jimmy Burns and my road name is “Taco.” I was born and raised in Midland Arkansas and moved to Mississippi in 1994. I have 3 fabulous kids, Payton, Allison and Jax and married to the love of my life and Pillion Toni Burns. My favorite past time is riding my motorcycles and being outdoors. I am a Freemason and branded Widows Son and act as the current Secretary for my Mississippi Chapter, Solomons Iron Knights.

I discovered the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge though the Annual Taco Run in 2022. My good friends Mark & Karen Campbell invited Toni and I along on the ride to Medicine Park and when we arrived I saw all the “Hoka Hey” cuts being worn and inquired what that was, as I had no idea. I spoke to and got to meet several of the Hoka Hey family while I was there and learned a lot about what it was. Of course, I then started following the challenge closely on social media, and followed the 2022 Hoka Hey Challenge very closely. This is when the Challenge called to me, drawing me to enter my name into the hat for the 2024 challenge. I made it through the interviews and got accepted to ride the 2024 challenge as rider #1131. I know it sounds funny, but just being accepted to ride in the challenge with all the veteran Hoka Hey and long distance riders was mind blowing, and took me a minute for it to sink in that I was going to be able to ride it. I then made arrangements to travel to Eagle Nest New Mexico in 2023 for the meet and greet there and again met a lot of challengers and learned a lot about what I needed to do to prepare. And then again in 2023, we made the trip to Medicine Park  for the Annual Taco Run and now felt like I actually fit in with the group, as I had now made several acquaintances and friends over the last year. Since then, I have kept up with the Hoka Hey riders and friendships I have made since the adventure started and are now less than 4 months to the starting line! I can’t wait….

                                                                

My charity to support is Mile Monsters Inc. I discovered the charity organization when I started following Riot in the 2022 Hoka Hey. I looked him up on social media and started following his journey, and what the cause was that he was riding for. We knew right away that this was an organization that we wanted to be part of, helping kids live their best lives. As a Freemason and Shriner myself, helping kids hits me deep to my core. Once we started following, we made plans to meet some of the boys, and traveled northeast and met Drew at his home. We got to hear his story from him and his parents and sister and knew we had made the right decision. Drew inspired us even more and is a huge part of why we continue to support Mile Monsters Inc. We also got the opportunity to meet another DMD boy, Ethan Pyles while on that trip and formed a good relationship with him. Ethan is very knowledgeable on DMD and is a great advocate for the disease. I had the honor of traveling to Texas for Gaven’s Texas Tour Premier and met him and his family as well as continuing to form that bond with the Mile Monsters and Hoka Hey Riders.  Over the past 2 years I have gotten to meet Riot, Hop, Twister, Wrongway, Mooney, Frank Orlando and several other monsters (forgive me if I left ya out) along the way. All who just reassured us that this was the organization to support. We know where the funds are going, and that is to support our current 5 hero’s, Turbo, Goat , Alfie, Jack & Drew on their fight against DMD. We will continue to support this charity long after the Hoka Hey Challenge.

 

Get out and do something Epic, and “Be The Example.”

~Taco

Meet The New Rider # 1191 Matt Hertel

I'm someone who has always been about responsibility to my job to my family and others. I make sure things and others are taken care of when they have a need and as the years go by I have realized it's time to do the same for myself. I've seen this country for 35 years through the window of my truck earning a living and not getting to ride my bikes as often as I'd like due to not being home earning a living. As the years go by I started to realize life goes by so fast. So this is the one big thing I'm doing for me. I've rode cross country before but in a very leisurely way compared to the Hoka hey . I rode my little 80cc Honda from Germany to the Mediterraneans when I was 16 and that's pretty much where the bike bug bit me. 

Once I migrated to the states I got another bike pretty quick , my first full sized bike, it was my commuter throughout the year , great to live in the south lol the weather cooperates.

Then life hit me and the bike got sold for a living room set , we all know the rest of that story I assume

Now I own 5 and I only have one rear end and nearly zero time , once a year I ride to bikes blues and bbq , roughly 900 from my house.

 

I have nearly no desire to ride around locally.....let's get to why the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge

It's a structured ride I can do on my own , I like the morals that come with it to keep everyone right n tight. I like it because it'll be a fantastic memory, it's a long ride and it's definitely a challenge and it's certainly not local. Years ago I heard about it and called Beth asking if Alaska was coming back, somehow I missed one but, I'm not missing this one.  I want the patch and once completed and only then will I order the derby cover, my own trophy so to speak. 

 

My personal trip to the left coast was nearly all US highways and I loved every minute of it so it comes naturally that I need the Hoka Hey.  Driving a truck I pound out miles after miles on the boring interstate system seemingly designed to see the least possible of this country.  The people I met on my trip were all friendly and I couldn't imagine the Hoka hey crowd to be any different, especially the ones that have done it several times, I believe it instills something inside you that you know no strangers and you get the road compassion to know how it feels broke down on the side and you're compelled to stop.

Obviously I don't know anyone of you guys but I have this feeling that it's a place where I belong.

Thanks to all who had an input on accepting my entry form.

I'll do my best to uphold the cause and respect the ride.

Matt aka Road Toad 

Rider # MCXCI....or 1191

Meet The New Rider # 1159 Tim Dickerson

 Tim Dickerson here, on the road though, I’m more commonly known as Loko. I’ve been riding motorcycles for 15 years and only in the last few have I been dabbling in the long distance genre of riding. I find it exhilarating and incredibly enjoyable to cover so many miles, terrains, and climates in such a short time period. Over the last decade and a half I’ve owned several different Harley Davidson motorcycles but the bike that I’ll be riding in the 24’ Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge is a 2023 Road Glide Limited bearing my rider number 1159. 

                                                                        

For me, the Hoka Hey is about two things, 1) challenging myself; 2) doing charitable things while doing it like fundraising. If it wasn’t a challenge, would it be worth doing? And if it wasn’t, there’d have to be some other mechanism for raising money. The combination of such an incredible quest to find ones self and overcome difficult obstacles for the sake of serving a greater purpose and not for ones self is the reason I applied for a rider number. 

I’m thankful I was chosen to be able to participate and raise money for charity. This year I’ll be doing double duty as I will be raising money for the Wildland Firefighter Foundation, while simultaneously riding every single day of 2024 for kids with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) and the Mile Monsters Inc.. While the Wildland Firefighter Foundation helps and supports the families of firefighters killed in the line of duty through their tragedy, the Mile Monsters help young kids with DMD live their best life by doing epic shit. Both charities are fitting as I once was a Wildland Firefighter and have seen the effects of a loss of a fireman, but I also love doing epic shit. Perfect combination. I’m looking forward to all the people I’ll meet and experiences I’ll have during the challenge and am beyond thankful to have been chosen.

Meet The New Rider # 1180 Forest Leas

I was born January 17,1961 at USMC Base Camp Pendleton, California. We moved to
Veedersburg, Indiana in 1963. I grew up in Veedersburg Indiana. Veedersburg has a history
with the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Corporation. On September 14, 1909, the
Indianapolis Motor Speedway Corp. contracts with the Wabash Clay Co. which was
located-in Veedersburg for 3,200,000 brick pavers. The first time I can remember riding was
when my dad would take me a ride on his Cushman Scooter. I got my first motorcycle when
I was 10 years old for Christmas. It was a Yamaha 60. I had a couple other motorcycles and
started riding my dad’s 450 Honda when I turned 15 years old. I got a 550 Honda of my own
and rode it until I graduated high school. Went to work for GM out of high school. I bought a
77 Honda Goldwing that summer. I took my first solo trip to West Virginia that summer. The
summer of 1980 my dad asked if I wanted to ride out to see my uncle in Oregon. My dad
didn’t even have a motorcycle, but he bought a 750 Honda and within 2 weeks we were off.
We left Veedersburg Indiana rode to Waldport Oregon. Stayed with my uncle for 10 days
and headed south to Carlsbad California and then back to Veedersburg. We were gone for
29 days. I moved to West Columbia, South Carolina that year and got married. My next
motorcycle trip I rode my first 1000-mile day from West Columbia to Albany, NY. A couple of
years later I sold my Goldwing and did not ride for the next 23 years. I got divorced in 2008
and bought my first Harley Davidson. A 2007 Rode King Classic. In 2017 I found my current
bike. A 2011 Road Glide. I got married to Lisa Paugsch in 2019.

 

My wife and I rode to the Sturgis rally that year. In August 2020 we rode to Yellow Stone and on our way back to South Carolina we stop to get gas in Conyers, GA. We fill up and pulled up next to another bikerand parked to get a drink. We came out and started talking to this other guy who had been
riding that day. His name is Kory Wilson Hoka Hey #1001 and he started telling us about the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge. We must have talked for an hour. We told him we were heading east and so was he. So, we rode out together for a short distance.

Riding the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge will be a unique experience. Not only do you get to ride your motorcycle across this beautiful country. You get to ride for a charity of your own choosing to help other people. The ride alone will be a great experience and to raise money for the charity I choose to help other people in need will be a great accomplishment.

 The charity I chose is Cancer of many Colors.
• Offering support to all cancer patients, regardless of race, gender, age, ethnicity,
national origin, and socioeconomic status to all counties in South Carolina. Small
Gift Program was created to help patients undergoing treatment that cannot work
needing help with basic living expenses such as rent, utility bills, food, car payment,
and transportation to and from treatment.
• Giving HOPE to families through financial assistance from our Small Gift Program to
help patients undergoing treatment that cannot work needing help with basic living
expenses. Bringing awareness to our communities that we are all a link in the chain
of HOPE and cancer impacts all of us.

Meet The New Rider # 1219 Joyce Oliphant

                                                     

Growing up in Northern Ohio, the 3rd of 4 kids. I was very much of a tomboy. Playing baseball, football, badminton and climbing trees with my brothers. In high school, I ran track.

I have always had a special connection with animals. At the age of 4, I found 3 beagle puppies and an adult St Barnard. My mom said she was afraid the St Barnard would hurt me since it was much bigger than me. The owner of the St Barnard walked up and asked my mom to keep me away from the dog, that he was very aggressive and didn’t like kids. My mom said, well, she slapped the dog on the nose and told it to stay, and it did. From that moment on, my mom said I would have a life with animals.

 In 1987, I rode on the back of my husband's motorcycle and  wanted my own. Making my want a reality, I purchased my own bike and have been riding since then.

When I learned the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge raises money for Indian reservations, it just warmed my heart. After learning I am more Indian then anything else, I want to be a part of something so awesome. Being at the end of the ride in 2022, everyone there was willing to help each other in every way possible. Sitting and talking to Blackie and John Levin


made me feel like part of the family. I like being a part of a family of members like them. I'm competitive and like challenges, believing the Hoka Hey will be one of my greatest challenges for a worthy cause. 

My charity will either be for helping find service animals for our Veterans, or for the Indian reservation of my family.

Meet The Rider # 895 Bill Ryan

 Greetings from Louisiana, I have ridden in the 2018, 2020 and 2022 Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenges and finished the first 2, but fall short in 2022, more on that later. As I look forward to 2024 as I will be riding with a fellow alumnus, David Beard, who I meet in 18 and we completed both 18 and 20 together.
If you are a new rider, remember it is not a race, but a challenge, so ride your ride. Remember
to eat and drink water, then more water, keep yourself hydrated. No matter how much you
prepare for this ride, the unknown, the unwanted situations will happen when you least expect
them. You will get tired, frustrated and at times upset, take a depth breath, stop, get off your
bike, walk around and remember why you are doing this.

As for the unknown or unwanted, in 2022, I was on day 11, well rested and feeling good, less
than 1100 miles from the finish when at dusk a mule deer decide we need to perform the
tango. We both finished last in that contest. Not the way I wanted to end 2022, but 6 months
later I was back on a bike, as for the deer, he ended up as food for some other critters in the
woods. This ride earned me the “"Ozuya Toapi" (Wounded Warrior) patch, I highly recommend
NOT trying to achieve this one.

Most importantly, my wife, Laura, provides the support and motivation for me to keep riding!
While some friends think I am crazy, I get nothing but positive support from my family and
friends. I always post the tracker so family and friends can follow along.
Once again, I am riding for “Stand Up To Cancer”, I have lost family, friends, fellow service
members to different cancers over the years. And yes, I am also a cancer survivor.

Meet The New Rider # 1167 Kendall Hayley

 

I'm Kendall Hayley, a 53-year-old Texan with 34 years of marriage and twin daughters, leading a fulfilling life in Fort Worth. My career spans 30 years in the funeral industry, managing logistics in burial products. Passionate about family, God, and community service, my wife and I have served in various church leadership roles for the past 30 years.

 

Motorcycles and horses have been pivotal in shaping my life's journey. From thrilling childhood motorcycle escapades to immersing myself in the ranching lifestyle, the symbiotic bond between horses and the open road has imparted invaluable life lessons. Since 2009, I've indulged my adventurous spirit by traversing our vast country, fostering a deep appreciation for long-distance endurance riding along the way.

 

Discovering the Hoka Hey Motorcyle Challenge at Daytona Bike Week in 2011, I admired extreme distance riders. Recent involvement in the Iron Butt Association confirmed my readiness for the challenge. My expectation is to finish the Hoka Hey Challenge, facing spiritual, mental, and physical tests. Expecting a journey of self-discovery, learning, and growth. My life motto, "Go Fast, Do Stupid Stuff," reflects my belief in acting swiftly on God's calling, even when others may not understand and believe it to be ”stupid”. Now, I'm answering the call to embark on the Hoka Hey Challenge, trusting in God's guidance.

 

I'm supporting S.T.E.P.S With Horses during my Hoka Hey Journey because:

• Lost my brother to suicide after years of struggles.
• Held leadership roles addressing mental health barriers in youth programs.
• Served as a Youth Pastor for 5 years, leading students with anxiety, depression, and suicidal tendencies.
• Ranching background working with horses and as a farrier.
• Over 30 years in the death care industry, providing burial products throughout the Mid and Southwest.

 

STEPS with Horses connects licensed therapy with horses for innovative mental health support, focusing on veterans and at-risk teenagers. This non-profit offers free services to veterans and their families. Learn more about STEPS with Horses STEPS With Horses - Equine Assisted Counseling and Psychotherapy.

Meet The New Rider # 1181 Jeffrey Mallory

 My name is Jeffrey Mallory, rider #1181. I am originally from Miller, MO. During my senior
year in high school, I joined the U.S. Army where I had the distinct privilege of being a Hooker.
I worked on Chinook Helicopters for 20 years in the Army and retired as a SFC. I then worked as
a defense contractor for another 10 years. I spent most of my career at Ft Campbell,
KY where I served in the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment and the 101st Airborne
Division. I am a combat veteran of both Afghanistan and Iraq. In 2013 I married my lovely wife
Paula and moved to south Alabama near Mobile Bay. I have been riding motorcycles since I was
in my teens and bought my first Harley in 1993. I still work on Chinook helicopters, which are
used to battle forest fires.

I first heard about the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge in July of 2022. Someone on my FB page posted to please keep their son-in-law in our prayers as he was participating in the challenge. This got me
interested in what the challenge was about. I began doing research and knew that this was
something that I needed to do in my life. I look at the challenge as a vision quest that helps you
look deep into your soul and helps you find balance in your life, as well as challenging your
mind and body.

                                                               

I will be using my participation in the challenge to raise money for the Night Stalker Association.
This a non-profit organization that provides scholarships and financial assistance to families of
soldiers who are assigned to the 160th SOAR. They also maintain a memorial monument to the
soldiers who paid the ultimate sacrifice and lost their lives in training accidents or combat
operations.

Meet The New Rider # 1164 Terri Collier

 Howdy Riders, Hoka Hey fans, supporters and anyone who enjoys an adventure:
T Collier here. I’m also known by “Where We Riding T?” This idea started about 15
years ago when I published a motorcycle magazine and was riding somewhere daily
covering events and more. People constantly ask where I was riding next. The BIG
answer to that today is, "I don't know" as the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge will plan
the route for my next big journey. I will have my bike, gear and self on the start line in
Daytona, FL in August. I'm going to be a participant for the first time after stalking the
Hoka Hey since before their first run. With no knowledge of them, I met the founders
many years ago as they were promoting their first ride at the Sturgis Bike Rally. At that
time, I thought I'd love to do that, but who can take off the time or afford it? FINALLY,
I've got the answers to these questions and I'm riding the 10th Hoka Hey Challenge! I'll
be riding my 2023 Orange Harley-Davidson Street Glide Special as Rider #1164. My
ride will be powered by sponsors Forman Harley-Davidson, My Biker Attorney, Santa Fe
Customs, Dunsworth Machine and several personal supporters.

I've ridden motorcycles since I was 2 on daddy's gas tank, until he gave me my mini
bike at 5. Funny thing about being a lady rider for 50 some years is that it's all very
different today from what it has been through those decades. I've worked diligently to
bring many lady riders out of their shell, riding without their male counterparts, using
their bikes as a daily driver and, best of all, supplying a means for women riders to
come together in a safe environment through multi-state group rides and events.

I'm thrilled to be setting out on this spiritual journey that I know the Hoka Hey Motorcycle
Challenge will be for me. I love to ride; see the country; meet new ride friends; rough it;
conquer challenges; read maps and spend time getting right with the world around me.
Most of all I love helping others and am already enjoying the fundraising efforts I'm
doing for my charity of choice, Kickin' Childhood Hunger. This 501C3 organization
raises funds to be used for children's weekend food sacks in the central Oklahoma area
where I live. Without these food sacks, hundreds of children would go hungry on the
weekends away from the food sources given to them at their school. I'm raising $75,000
which will buy 10,000 food sacks. A food sack a mile is my goal! That should be plenty
of motivation to continue to go just one more mile!

I appreciate your reading my bio and considering a donation to Kickin' Childhood
Hunger. 100% of every dollar donated goes directly to purchasing food sacks. If you'd
like to donate, please use this link Give Butter. Thank you in
advance for your support, prayers and cheering me to the finish line. Follow my
fundraising and ride progress on Facebook and Instagram at #WhereWeRidingT.
Until you see me on the road, enjoy your ride!
T Collier,
@WhereWeRidingT
Rider #1164

Meet The New Rider # 1157 Jay Harding

I was born in Peterborough, Ontario but soon moved to Toronto where my Dad found work in construction. I met and started dating the person I would eventually marry in Grade 9. We have three boys (all adults now) and in 2024 my wife and I will celebrate our 30th wedding anniversary. In fact, I anticipate being on the road to Homer on our anniversary date. Following in my Dad's footsteps I have enjoyed a long and rewarding career in the construction industry. We now live in Edmonton, Alberta and I am fortunate to work for a great company that is very supportive of my riding endeavors and is promoting my selected charity, Spirit North. I started riding dirt bikes when I was a teenager and competed in National Hairscrambles as an adult.  Since 2015 my life has been significantly impacted by two key factors: A newfound passion for the open road on two wheels after purchasing a Harley Davidson; and a desire to learn the true history of Canada and acknowledge and help those communities still affected by lasting trauma. Thanks to the Edmonton HOG chapter I was able to meet many amazing and like-minded folks who our now my long distance riding partners and good friends. I consider myself to be a very fortunate person and I owe it to my wife, Laura, whose unwavering dedication to our family is unmatched.

 

                                                                                           

The Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge embodies what I strive to be as a human being. It has given me a platform to promote awareness of the lasting impacts of colonization on Indigenous people, and offered me an opportunity to prove to myself that I have the character to face adversity, make sacrifices and be the warrior that my family and my community need me to be. It has given me the opportunity to set an example, one that will empower others to act in a manner that befits the Lakota Sioux principal of Wolakota (peace, balance & coming together).

 

Laura and I set out to find a charity that focused on uplifting Indigenous youth to support social change. We found the perfect fit in Spirit North. Spirit North facilitates the implementation of outdoor sport, play and land-based learning programs that are created and led by Indigenous people, for youth within their own communities. Spirit North participants eventually become program, youth and community leaders, acquiring leadership and life skills. No other organization aligns more closely with the intent and spirit of the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge.

Sponsors:

Harley Davidson of Edmonton www.hdedmonton.com 

Legendary Barbershop https://www.legendarybarbers.com/ 

Legendary Barbershop | Fort Saskatchewan Barber | Edmonton Barber | Come in Ordinary, Leave Legendary. Hot Shaves, Fort Saskatchewan Barbershop, Fort Saskatchewan Barber, Goldbar Barber, Edmonton Barber,Wainwright Barbershop,

Meet The New Rider # 1217 Dan Mitchell

 Riding has always been in my blood. Growing up I watched my dad and his friends experience a love of motorcycles as well. But even with that love of riding and the open road, riding was discouraged when I came of age to be able to do so. I found myself unable to listen to this discouragement because the calling of the open road has always been a part of me. Wherever I want to go, I’ll be able to go. But keep in mind that this is what a motorcycle is. It’s not just a frame, an engine, a set of tires, or even a rider. That’s just what a motorcycle needs but what a motorcycle is… what Roxxi really is… is freedom, challenges and peace.

This calling is what led to the purchase of my first motorcycle at 18 and I found myself living by one rule, ‘what a man can do, and what a man can’t do’. My first bikes created a love for curvy roads. I started riding longer distances when I built my first bobber, which then led to my first bagger purchase. When my wife, jokingly, threatened me with death if I didn’t utilize the purchase, the subtle encouragement of long distance riding began. I started out with roughly getting 20,0000 miles a year as a minimum goal that I challenge myself to break each year. And let me tell you, when you are the first one out in early spring, being willing to ride in the winter, and your preferred method of travel it can sometimes be a lonely journey. This perspective isn’t always understood by other riders in the same manner that I feel and understand it.  My wife and sons are among the small supportive group I have had, encouraging and enabling me to complete challenges I might set for myself. Learning with me working full time as a welder, and trying to complete my goals while supporting them in theirs. They have always held the same opinion of every mile being a memory during the journey. 

My first encounter with Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge riders was during Daytona Bike Week 2020 and the more I learned about it, the more I was drawn to the idea of the journey being a “spirit quest”. I am hoping to learn more about myself than I knew prior to the ride, and to learn to challenge myself without the need to challenge others. The ride itself is the epitome of what a man can do and the freedom he has to achieve it. This being my first organized long distance ride, I am extremely grateful to have met the high expectations of being a part of this Challenge and I hope to live up to the high standards of past and present Hoka Hey riders.

The physical aspects of the ride will be challenging, but the mental ones are going to be the most difficult.  My spirit quest will not only be conducted in the same month as an early birthday present for myself, but during an anniversary of one of the worst days of my life. August 2024 will be the 2 year anniversary of my youngest son’s death. I will not only be riding to challenge myself, but honor him and the things he and I enjoyed most together… motorcycles and the freedom of the open road.

The charity I have chosen to support for the 2024 Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge is The Sparrow Project.  My wife has  spearheaded this project seeking to not only further education, prevention, and resources regarding suicide but to support and honor those that have overcame or have been a victim. The foundation aims to support families who have lost a child to suicide by offering donations to help them manage their everyday lives so that they can focus on what they need to do to heal once the initial outpouring of support is gone. Mental health has been a taboo subject, and with state and federal governments causing resources and support to become slim, I hope to help call more attention to this cause. My alliance with this foundation stems from the loss of our son to suicide in August of 2022 and the goal of helping support others during their own healing process. My purpose of the 2024 Hoka Hey  is to be able to experience this spirit quest not only for myself, but to give some direction to those who may have lost their way.

“The answer my friend, is blowin’ in the wind*....

*Bob Dylan Blowin in the Wind

Link to The Sparrow Project https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61557585891357

Donation Link:    

https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/2cf1730d-f90b-401f-833f-aa2a788e958c

Meet The Rider # 1078 Maximiliano Guillen

 
I like and enjoy riding motorcycles specially when there is adventure, like the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge,  I like meeting new people and places and of course the food.

                                                           

I’m joining the challenge because I want to explore a new landscape of our country and met our
destination, Alaska.

This year I want to support Fisherhouse Foundation. This foundation builds comfort homes where
military & Veteran families can stay for free of charge, while a loved one is in the hospital.
I believe this is a great cause and an honorable responsibility on helping our Military and Veterans
who gave it all.

 

Meet The New Rider # 1147 Tracy Bearl

My name is Tracy, also known to be called “Clutch” by my riding friends. I’ve grown up in Minnesota my
whole life, and like many riders I started riding minibikes at a young age. Then I moved onto dirt bikes
and crotch rockets before buying a Softail, and finally ending up with my Street Glide. I’ve always had a
passion for traveling, especially on my bike. There is so much of this country to see, and with a wife who
shares the same passion while riding her own bike, we can see so much of it.

 
The Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge is a challenge that I’ve been looking for test my limits for a very long time. Like many, I’d like to think that I can handle any riding situation, any distance for any amount of time. As I read and
hear stories of the Hoka Hey, I realize that maybe I’m not as bad ass as I may have thought. I want to do this
challenge to test myself to see if I really do have what it takes to be one of these incredible riders.

                                              

 
The charity I’m riding for is Mile Monsters Inc.. A charity that competes in several types of motorcycle,
challenges to raise both awareness and money to fight Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. DMD is a very
aggressive form of MD which typically affects young boys. DMD attacks the muscle that will ultimately
take the ability to run or walk, and eventually makes these kids wheelchair dependent.

 
I chose this charity because I’ve seen firsthand what this group does for these boys. The money raised
goes directly to supporting the kids affected by this disease with wheelchairs, ramps, Christmas gifts.
There are 2 boys in Ireland land get help with treatment in the states here. I appreciate that his charity
makes it fun to participate in raising money as well. I personally participated in a 1000‐mile ride to raise
money to buy the family of one of the boys buy a handicapped accessible van to make it easier to get to
appointments and fun things to do