Meet The Rider #1000 E Ed Maulbeck

 Ed Maulbeck Hoka Hey Rider 1000E, yes… that’s not a typo! There are four us
affectionately referred to as the “Riders 1000”
HERE’S THE BACK STORY:
During the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge 2018 there was a Rider Named Mike Martin, Mike was a
Vietnam-Era Navy SEAL that crashed during that Hoka Hey, broke a few ribs, and kept
riding. I believe it was “Mama Beth” that talked him into stopping (that is what I heard,
but I wasn’t involved back then). Mike was not only tough, but he was also loved by the
Hoka Hey family. Mike planned to participate in/conquer the 2020 HHMC, but, he
passed away in 2019. His HHMC Rider number was 911.

As the HHMC Rider numbers approached number 1000, there was a group of
Navy SEALs that were going to ride the 2020 HHMC in honor of Mike. I got involved in
getting a motorcycle for one of those Navy SEALs as I own an Indian Motorcycle
Dealership. I pitched a plan to Indian Motorcycle to provide two “2020 Deepwater Blue
Metallic Indian Challenger Limited’s” for two of the SEALs (1000S – Scott and 1000W –
Will). Now I’m in the midst of setting all this up and I’m saying to myself, I gotta do this
Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge thing. I asked the guys if I could join them, they said
yes. I asked Indian Motorcycle for another “Deepwater Blue Challenger” and they said
yes, and the rest is history! There was Scott and Will, also Terry on his Roadglide
Limited (Rider #1000T) and I round it out as the fourth Rider 1000!
We all rode the 2020 HHMC for Mike Martin’s two charities. I rode it for the
Special Operations Forces (SOF) Warrior Foundation which I’ve been supporting for
over 20 years, and it’s also one of my Dealership’s partner charities.
I am a HHMC 2020 “Finisher” (in 14 days), and the experience was absolutely
therapeutic. I enjoyed my first HHMC so much that I did it again in 2022 and I came in
with my close friend Terry - 1000T on the thirteenth day during the “End of the Road
Party,” Terry and I are now “Elite Finishers.” I thoroughly enjoyed both HHMCs and I’m
even more excited for 2024. I am blessed with great friends and family support, as this
event helps me refocus and to continually grow. I am a practicing Catholic, however,
Hoka Heys seem to be somewhat of a spiritual cleansing for me (that, and there is also
confession…)

This year I have a new charity! As I’m honored to ride, I’m even more honored to ride
this year’s Challenge for “The Honor Foundation” (pun intended). The Honor
Foundation provides college/university style training to transitioning SEALs and Special
Operators. When I retired in 2008, nothing like this existed. I was approached by the
organization last year and was honoring to be the guest speaker at one of the
graduation commencements at the Virginia Beach, VA campus. I’m now compelled to
support them! My previous charity the SOF Warrior Foundation in Tampa, FL (HHMC
2020/2022) remains near and dear to my heart, however, the Honor Foundation seems
to have the greater financial need. I’m more focused now than ever about the fund-
raising component of the HHMC because the charitable fund-raising is the competition
of the HHMC!!!

Meet The Rider # 961 Jack Dressler

 Hoka Hey 2.0 Being the last generation who grew up without computers and cell phones people now don’t even  know what a paper map is let alone know how to use them as well as the funky Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge turn by turn indiscretions given is a challenge all in its own. As a returning rider lessons learned, all the gear u packed get rid of 80% of it and u probably still have to much, light lights lights u will be riding at night, right gear for all weather as u are going to get wet. Needing to ware readers to read maps was the biggest issue to get the directions where I could see it without looking down or up lol. looking forward to riding the route where it all started so stoked. The HHMC camaraderie and friend ships made are lifelong. Most of the people that know have confirmed what I already knew that I’m pretty much nuts for doing what I do most don’t get it lol but accept me for who I am. I recognize each day as a gift to embrace what I love to do, and it is for that reason I intend to make the most of riding the Hoka Hey for the second time. 

 

So I’m ready to roll and excited to be part of the Hoka Hey brotherhood. primed to embark on me second challenge. My enthusiasm for this ride, the anticipation I feel, and the adrenaline rush of simply preparing for the challenge, “... the toughest ride for the toughest riders on earth…” are real and formidable. Decades spent in the saddle have prepared me to push through my own personal boundaries, to challenge my limits, and to overcome any of the hardships and adversities inherent of long-distance and solo riding. In my world “real” riding means longer hours, more challenging terrain, and journeys into the unknown demanding of unparalleled skill and endurance. Without question the Hoka Hey promises to be my longest, most challenging and most adventurous ride by far. I thrive on adventure, the rush of adrenaline, and the thrill of the unknown. Without a doubt the HHMC will be an unforgiving and gruelling battle of physical and mental will, endurance, strength, stamina, skill and focus. Definitely not a venture for those faint of heart or weak of spirit. But I’m ready and eagerly await this adventure with all of its’ potential challenges, obstacles and risks. I anticipate reaching that illustrious finish line with a much deserved and unique sense of pride, achievement and accomplishment, and many stays in the Hoka Hey hotel and roads that I have never seen.

Finally but not least of all, I have absolute respect and appreciation for the camaraderie of the riders, their willingness to support one another, and the inherent potential for newly forged friendships along the highways and byways of our journey. I will be raising money for The Canadian Cancer Society. Sadly, this cause is near and dear to many of us here.
HOKA HEY

 

Meet The Rider # 1082 Jeff Hallquist

 

I am a long-time, long-distance rider inspired by the best. I’ve done a ton of IBA rides and
some rallies, including the IBR.

The Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge is special. I always wanted to take it on, and I did in 2022. My ride
ended about three-quarters the way through with a mechanical failure. I was riding an H-D
Pan America and should’ve been riding my H-D Road Glide, a model I had ridden for twenty
years. I’m looking for redemption in 2024.

I’m riding to benefit the Coastal Women's Shelter in eastern North Carolina. The Shelter
provides a bridge for survivors of domestic and sexual violence. I’m soliciting donations
from my local friends to benefit a local organization.

This time, the goal is to have fun, be safe and finish.

Meet The New Rider # 1142 Whiskey Lynne

 

Hi there! My name is Whiskey Lynne, and I’m rider #1142.

I tell people that I was born with a clutch in my hand. I’ve ridden dirt bikes, quads, and 3 wheelers ever since I can remember. I learned how to ride a motorcycle when I was 17 (1993), and I finally got my own ride in 2005 at 28. In 2023, I packed what I could on my 2020 Triglide, and I left my old life and started a new one. For 10 months, I went full nomad. I was homeless on my Harley. I had no real plan or destination when I left. I ran through 23 states last year, and I found more of myself than I even thought was missing. It’s not lost on me that, the year before, my friend had sent me a text with “You should check this out.” with the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge website link attached. I looked at it and instantly thought “I need to do this.” I had also run into 2 Hoka Hey vest wearing gents at the Galveston, Texas Lone Star Rally that year. They probably thought I was nuts, having stopped them to be overly excited that a friend had sent me a link about the patches on their backs, but I knew it was a sign. I had no idea I would be nomading by myself the very next year. I was 100% homeless when I registered for this event. Whenever I found myself in some crazy/hazardous road, life, or weather condition, I trained myself to think, “This is GREAT training for Hoka Hey!” anytime something would go sideways.

For work, I have a “laptop on the Harley lifestyle” life coaching and being of service in my road ministry which I refer to as “Bugs In the Lipgloss”. I am an ordained minister and Post Traumatic Growth Coach, and I teach folks how to identify self-limiting beliefs and patterns and how to change them. My specialties include working with individuals with (military and domestic) PTSD/C-PTSD and people who are ready to break their codependency cycles. I inspire change in those that I meet online and on the road. I help empower them to leave unhealthy relationships (especially with themselves), expose their authenticity to the world, and heal. I’ve fought and conquered these beasts myself, including putting down the bottle of my namesake in October of 2023. I’m currently writing a book about my work and travels, and building my speaking career.

When you level up, you always start back at the bottom; but never back at ground zero. You bring with you all of the wisdom and tools that you’ve acquired along the way. Hoka Hey is the next level for me. I was pushed to my personal brink last year, and I’ve healed and grown more than I could have ever imagined because of it.

I am excited to see what lessons I’m to learn next, and I am so grateful for this opportunity!

I have chosen to raise funds for  Feeding America. Throughout my life, and the lives of my children, food security had been an issue, and were it not for food banks and other programs, I would have gone a lot hungrier than I ever was. The goodness of people who supported programs like this kept my children from ever going hungry. I’ll never regret standing in a line to make sure that my children were provided for when I was in hard times, and I will always give back wherever I can. I pray that you join me too. Through Feeding America, $1 can provide up to 10 meals in equivalency because of the way they run their programs to provide food banks, soup kitchens, homeless shelters, and other outlets to feed the hungry solely in the United States.

Meet The Rider # 966 Jon Santos

 Hey, Jon Santos here, this will be my second Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge. When I first learned about the Hoka Hey in 2018 I knew I had to do it. In 2020 I completed the Hoka Hey in 24th place as an Elite Finisher. I am proud of my achievement, and I thoroughly enjoyed my journey. I met so many people and made some great friends along the way. I’m looking forward to this year’s journey and reconnecting with
my fellow riders. During my 2020 challenge I did learn a few things. The biggest lesson being that no
matter how prepared you think you are, you’re not! I also learned (the hard way) to pay attention to
where the sprinklers are when you park to take a nap, or you will get wet!

 

I do a lot of long-distance riding and trips with my wife Carrie whenever we can. We have 4 children
and 2 grandchildren, and they also love to ride. This year our 3-year-old grandson got his 1st dirt bike
and he’s already in love with riding! I do a lot of charity rides and work with Hoagy's Heroes and Mile Monsters Inc. Riding is my passion and love that I can share it with my family and friends.

 

Meet The Rider # 865 Guy Paquin

Hi, my name is Guy Paquin, rider 865. I am a Canadian Army veteran who served 30 years: Infantry /Airborne/ Ranger (US Army) finally retired 2008. I served at home and abroad.  When not riding, I am an avid long distance cyclo-tourer, a photographer and a hiker.  During our long Canadian winter rather than suffer from Parked Motorcycle Syndrome, I ski, cross country ski, fat bike and snowshoe until March 16, first days when we can legally put our bikes on the road!

 

I rode the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge for the challenge. I had no expectations when I rode my first Hoka Hey in 2016. The best advice I received at the time was to expect the unexpected and be ready for anything. Being retired, other than being available, no obstacles had to be overcome to participate. I first heard about the Hoka Hey in 2012 in the Lon distance riding community, I am member of the IBA (Iron Butt Association #35606) , have ridden in many editions of the Void, the Mason–Dixon, Cape Fear  and  Team Strange events and many others so I was naturally attracted to such a challenge.

 

This year I am planning to support the Canadian cancer society for their fight against breast cancer, it has touched many members of my family and friends.

This is my second participation, 2016 was my first and I was not available since for various scheduling reasons.  As for trials during 2016 challenge: In Colorado a lady backed herSUV into my parked bike, witnesses got her to leave her number but she wouldn’t answer her phone until I got a local police officer to call: lost about a riding day …so not much of an ordeal but frustrating nonetheless. I had not planned much time after the scheduled End of Road party so had to cut short and head for the Finish line (This year I have nothing planned until early September so am more ready for the unexpected!)But as the saying goes about these small frustrations:  Don’t mean nothing, Drive on or in this case Ride on….

See you all on the road

Meet The Rider # 902 Kenneth Brooks

KGB here, number 902.

 

The 2024 Hoka Hey challenge will be my fourth Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge.

 

I have been a licensed motorcycle rider for 55 years now.  Since riding my first Hoka Hey in 2018, my long-distance riding trips have increased.  So, although my riding style may not have changed much, my attention to detail has sharpened.  Packing only essentials and keeping weight to a minimum while also keeping my center of gravity as low helps keep handling as nimble as possible with a 1000 lb. bike.

 

I’d say my confidence level is as high as it will ever be after finishing my first two Hoka Hey rides.  I’d caution the new riders to take care of their bikes, watch the gas level and get rest when it’s needed, bring a road atlas and know how to use it.

 

My charity of choice is the Mile Monsters Inc. 1-K, helping to make life better for Duchenne’s muscular dystrophy boys is personal for me as I have a grandson with the disease.

 

I look forward to the 2024 Hoka Hey because of the challenge.  After retiring from the Army in 1994 and spending the next twenty years doing contract explosive and chemical weapons disposal jobs from Florida to Alaska as well as years spent in Afghanistan and Iraq, I miss the challenge of overcoming hardship.

 

Fortune smiled on me during my first two runs and I avoided the many opportunities to prematurely end the ride.  Others were not as fortunate, and I joined those ranks when I had a deer strike on the 2022 HHMC. My 2024 goal is simply to avoid deer and finish the challenge.

 

My wife, Kathy, is my biggest supporter.  Be it the Hoka Hey challenge, and Ride to Eat scavenger hunt groups or a ride from Florida to Alaska.  I can always count on her to have my back.    

 

V/R

 

Kenneth G. Brooks



Kenneth G. Brooks,
CW3, USA (Ret.)

Meet The Ride # 886 Brian Campo

My name is Brian Campo Hookah Hay Rider 886 aka Outcast..I started riding at 7 on Dirt Bikes. My grandfather always talked about his Indian Motorcycle and that's where the seed was planted.. When I was 18, I was stationed in Germany during my service in the USArmy.. I rode with my first MC there and enjoyed touring Europe on my first motorcycle, a triumph650.  I have been riding ever since . I have rode,owned, and sold many  Harley Davidson motorcycles.


 For the 2024 Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge I will be riding on a 2013 HD Ultra Classic CVo, which is my go to long distance ride.This will be my third HHMC. I previously rode 2018 ,unfinished,  Yet still rode 14000 by the time I got home that year. I then completed the 2020 HHMC as a finisher. Upon completing the HHMC in 2020  I realized a lot about myself and who I really am. The HHMC brings me closer to my spiritual self and solidifies my relationship with my HP. In the upcoming 2024 Challenge I look forward to the ride, the new experiences, new stories that we will create, and meeting all the new brothers and sisters along the way. 

This year I will be raising funds for Mile Monster inc. which helps children with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.

 My words of wisdom to new riders… Sleep enough! Stay hydrated, And make this ride about you! You are the only one that matters out there, you and your higher power. Remember once you start your journey and have left the starting line you are already halfway there!

Ride easy and remember the only task you have to complete is riding the best you can that day don't worry about tomorrow. Stay focused on the task at hand.  See ya at the finish line.

Meet One of the Original Riders # 67 Michael Conner

With 40+ years being in the trucking industry navigation comes naturally, I frankly enjoy old school navigation. I respect my fellow man and leaves in the idea of brotherhood. I love spending time with others in the Hoka Hey community and the general community. 

I rode the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge in 2010 and it changed me within.  The challenge means just that. During the route I had I had many challenges from route issues, other riders telling me it was cancelled and the joys or not of asking locals directions.  Weather and road detours.  Guess I didn’t get enough from all the other HHC I just thought why stop now. Let’s roll 2024. 

My non profit is JDFR.  Make a Donation - JDRF JDRF is the leading global organization funding type 1 diabetes (T1D) research. Their strength lies in their exclusive focus and singular influence on the worldwide effort to end T1D.

The vision of the world without type 1 diabetes. 

The mission: Accelerating life-changing breakthroughs to cure, prevent and treat T1D and its complications

As a type two diabetic my self, I feel it’s important that the research is done to help find a cure for juveniles and adults. 

The money will be used for research to find a cure for juvenile diabetes. 

Meet The Rider # 1012 Larry Robertson

I’m an enrolled member of the Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate, originally from the Lake Traverse Reservation in Northeast South Dakota, I’m a veteran and have four children and two grandchildren! I still have my two youngest that live with me currently in Albuquerque NM, I’ve been in public service all of my career starting in military as a Navy Corpsman, worked in EMS after leaving active duty. In August 2023, I retired from law enforcement after 32 years of service. Aside from riding I have several activities that I enjoy, I have several drones that I fly and do photography and videos from a different perspective.  I enjoy travelling by any means-bike, vehicle or plane and have been to many amazing places.

 
Many years ago, my friends and I heard about the first Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge and I’m looking forward to ride again. This challenge will be my third; they’re not easy, but I did learn and look forward to the challenge again. The HHMC is addicting and more than just getting on a bike and going; it challenges me to stay on task, face the elements, leave behind comforts, work toward the goal of finishing and enjoying the ride in the process.

 
The words “Hoka hey” have a special meaning to me, to hear it gives me strength and there are people who read this that will know exactly what I’m speaking of. I will carry that as I make my way through each day of the HHMC. I have again chosen to ride for the families that  fallen Akicita have left behind. Throughout the years, I’ve known warriors who’ve made the ultimate sacrifice protecting their communities and they’re at peace; but the spouses and children must continue life without them and that’s who I ride for. Concerns of Police Survivors is the charity I have chosen here is the link and I encourage everyone to donate.
Please contact
 me if you have any questions or concerns.
Larry #1012

Meet The Rider # 1032 James Coyle

 Hello,

I'm James Coyle, also known as Road Runner among my Boozefighters Motorcycle Club
brothers. I've been living in New Hampshire for two decades, where my wife and I run Blackbird
Market and Deli, a staple in our community. Travel has always been a significant part of my life,
from moving around frequently as a child—including a stint in Singapore—to extensive road
trips across the United States and backpacking through Europe during college. These
experiences fostered my love for adventure and exploration.

Despite my mother's concerns stemming from motorcycle accidents in the past, my riding
journey began unofficially with friends' dirt bikes in Pennsylvania. By my early 30s, I was finally
able to purchase an Adventure bike, and not long after, I acquired a cherished 1997 Springer
Harley, which truly solidified my passion for motorcycling. Joining the Boozefighters expanded
my horizons further, enabling me to ride through all the lower 48 states and even to the
northern reaches of Cape Spear, Newfoundland.

This is my second attempt at the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge . Having followed the event
since 2016, I understand its demands and the mental fortitude required to navigate without
modern conveniences like GPS. This challenge represents a return to the basics of riding and an
opportunity to trust my instincts over technology.
I am committed to riding for Hope For The Day, a charity dedicated to proactive suicide
prevention through educational programs that are accessible across various community
settings. My fundraising target is $5,000, which I hope to achieve with the support of my
sponsors, including R&R Cycles in Manchester, NH, and the extensive network of friends and
family across the Boozefighters community.
Thank you for your time.
James Coyle AKA Road Runner

Meet The Rider # 1086 Michael Moore

Fellow Hoka Hey challengers how lucky are we?! We get to do what we love ( ride and ride some more) while bringing awareness and raising money for those less fortunate.
I began riding motorcycles in 1988 when I reported to my first Special Operations command and saw Harley’s lined up inside the compound. I would return from a deployment and take 3 weeks leave and ride with no destination in mind. Fast forward : I’m a retired Navy dad of 5 with our oldest( son)  forward deployed in Bahrain for 2 years as a cybersecurity specialist. A 23 yr old son who’s also a computer specialist. A daughter in this year’s graduating class 2024 at Annapolis -like her dad and uncle - class of 1985. 15 and 14 year old sons still at home. A very supportive spouse who enjoys riding 2 up. Among many pursuits the two hobbies I enjoy the most are college football and riding on two wheels.

 I was a rookie elite finisher for Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge 2022 with many lessons learned. And the recipient of grace and fortune from a duo at a Harley Davidson dealership ( Deluxe HD- Gillette  Wy)  that came to the rescue in providing a motorcycle to finish on after I split a deer in half with 500 miles left to the finish line. For the new challengers I have 3 pieces of advice. 1) Don’t quit , ever. 2) Bring the proper gear 3) Expect the unexpected. It’s inevitable. Oh and enjoy the challenge!

Maria and Mike
Owners of Deluxe HD in Gillette, WY
That saved my bacon 😂

Coach : Rider #1086

Meet One of The Original Riders # 83 Lee Smith

Hoka Hey - Wow what can I say ? Simply put unless you’ve never tried you don’t know what you’re missing. One of the best organizations I’ve ever had the privilege to be a part of .
Don’t know any other ride that will test you and find out what your made of along the way .  And the people you ride with are the BEST!! , from organizers to riders and our fans .

I’ve had the pleasure of riding from the very first year and will continue until such time I can’t . At such time I will still be a part of Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge, I’ll just show and live up to my name             ( Problem Child )
Years I’ve ridden….
2010
2011
2012
2013
2020
2022
And going for 2024 …

Hoka Hey Forever…
Problem Child
🎤 drop ….

Meet The New Rider # 1130 Chip Quay

Hello from eastern North Carolina,

I have been in the motorcycle world for most of my life. I have had all different types and brands. Now I ride a 2023 road glide. I was never more than the fair weather rider and never more than 200 miles in a day. But one day I found “my ride or die” partner. She is my pillion and it is fully possible that she likes to ride more than me. We were at our local HOG meeting and some of our friends were talking about IBA rides and we said that sounded like something that we could do. So that was the start of long distance riding for me.

 In 2021 there was a couple talking about Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge. This sparked my interest, so I did some research and found that it was something that I wanted to do. I watched them both on fleet tracker Gregg Szakmeister #1056 and Jeff Hallquist #1082. To hear their stories from their challenge has given me the motivation to really get involved with this. Additionally, Jim Sharp #1204, a good friend of mine, has shared stories of his family’s Hoka Hey history which inspired me even more. We went to weekend @ Steve’s and met some other members and it was a great experience and so welcoming that I look forward to meeting the rest of you at the start line Chip Quay #1130.

 

Meet The Rider # 956 Julie Sirey

 My name is Julie "Raindrop" Sirey. I have one amazing daughter & son-in-law, and now an amazing grandson as well. I am an accountant for the last 20 something years (but I'm only 26). I have a great passion for what I do & love it greatly. I love riding and thankfully I live in Texas so I can ride most of the year. But when I can't ride I love to read books, mostly Stephen King, or do cross stitch… or just watch movies and relax. I also love driving Buster, my 2015 Hellcat. But he's one that I drive minimal to save miles & hope to increase his value (retirement plans). He's only got 6,000 miles on him. I'm more of a loner, live in a tiny town in the country, & I enjoy my solitude, but I have many friends I do enjoy my time with as well. It’s hard to be “crazy” lol.

I watched a few friends participate in the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge in 2018 & 2020 and it just “spoke” to me. I was blessed to participate in 2022. I went into the Challenge looking for one thing after 2 significant deaths in my life, but I came out of the experience with something different. I always say “I went in for one reason, but came out with what I needed”. I also came out of the Challenge with an extended family I never knew I would have. It has been amazing! I am returning this year to work on my “story” of life, to grow, to help someone else in life- whatever I may be called to do.

I started riding for Mile Monsters Inc in 2023 after learning about them in the 2022 Hoka Hey Challenge. I was losing my passion for riding and this gave me a new love, desire, and purpose. The Monsters ride for Heros who are afflicted with DMD, Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. DMD is a rare aggressive form of Muscular Dystrophy that impacts boys and at this time and is still 100% fatal. This disease attacks their muscle groups and takes their ability to climb stairs, run, and eventually even walk- usually between the ages of 9-11. We strive to do everything we can to help them live an EPIC life. We ride to get them their needs no matter what they are- special equipment, a Hero Hauler van to get them to appointments and anywhere out of the house, travel to get to special needed appointments to help them stay walking as long as possible…. The list is endless. These Heros saved this one individual, I will do everything I can to help them in their fight. https://givebutter.com/HH24/julieraindropsirey

Meet The Rider # 1048 James Mooney

My name is James Mooney returning rider #1048. I am a retired systems administrator and mostly worked on boundry defence contract for the US Army. Since then I enjoy playing my music, I still consider myself as an emerging one man band playing swamp rock and blues. I take care of my Yorkie and stay motivated to ride my motorcycles when I can, supporting Mile Monsters Inc. and the awareness of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. I embrace everyday and grateful for the life I have paved for myself. My home base is central Louisiana for whats its worth. Its open and sometimes challenging in itself.

 

I want to do the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge again to rock it like non other before. After being a rookie last time I have hopefully learned a system that will over come any and all complications I endoured the first. Although I am well aware of the friction of this event. This event changed my life. Some good, some bad and some that is yet to come. The adventure on this ride finds you to be motivated, inspired, impressed and disappointing, frustrated and mistakes to be had. But at the end its the end of the beginning of whole new outlook that you have absorbed. Hoka Hey!



The best advice I can give to anyone is ride your ride and finish. There will always be a tick in your mind playing games with yourself...don't ignore them embrace them ..then overcome them and push forward. It's a challenge remember that sometimes you're not in control of the elements but in charge how you approach them.

Meet The Rider # 1100 Mike Neale

This will be my second Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge. Withdrew on the 5th day in 2022 due to a nerve problem from my neck to my hand. It was hard to make that decision but I think it was the right one. What I learned from that is that we need to make sure we are physically able to participate. I have since had the issue resolved and am looking forward to unfinished business this year.

 I’ve met so many great people with this group and hopefully have established long lasting relationships. Through this event and the rendezvous in New Mexico I can’t wait. Another thing I learned even though I thoroughly enjoyed riding with the three others I rode with is to ride your own ride. Also this is not for the meek and mild. It’ll test every resolve you have.

 I will ride again for st Jude’s childrens hospital.  Looking forward to seeing the returning riders and the new ones. Have met some of the new ones already. See you in Florida

Meet The Rider # 981 Henry Lecomte

I'm Henry, from Ste. Anne, Manitoba. I am returning rider from 2022 and am happy to once again be riding in the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge. Jimmy Milas told me "if you ride it once you will again." I enjoy participating in rides,  which takes riders off the beaten path to see scenery and areas that most people are not able to enjoy.

Between work and the Canadian weather, I takes every opportunity to tour. During the 2022 ride I made some great friends who enjoy doing what I enjoy. All the riders and the organizers of this event form a great group of individuals and donate much of their time and energy supporting many great causes and charities.

This year I will be riding for Manitoba Possible which is an organization in Manitoba who help people with disabilities. I have friends and family who have received aid from this organization.  When not riding, I enjoys hunting, fishing and forging knives. I have been a member of the Boilermakers for 16 years, Pipefitters for 20+years and owner of my own welding business.

Meet The New Rider # 894 Jeff Burrus

 My name is Jeff Burrus! I was born and raised in Rockford, Illinois, near the Wisconsin
border. I am married to my beautiful wife, Jenn, for 28 years. I am a father of 3 children and
have 2 grandchildren. I am a Navy veteran and currently I drive trucks for a living.
After my kids were grown, I was able to purchase a motorcycle that I would be able to ride long
distances comfortably. My first real excursion on the bike was an Iron Butt challenge around
Lake Michigan. The exhilaration of attempting to complete this was exactly what I wanted. I
was sore, wet, and stinky. It rained all day making for a miserable ride. I was hooked from that
day on. When I got home, my wife was of course worried, but relieved that I made it home safe.
There have been many more rides since, and she always worries when I am on the road.

I first heard about the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge in September of 2010. I read an article in
Cycle Source magazine. I told my wife I was going to compete in this race, and she said if that’s
what you want to do, get to it! I have followed along with every HokaHey ever since. Excited,
nervous, and ready to get to it as my wife would say. August 4th can’t come soon enough!

I am riding for St. Judes Children's Research Hospital. Simply said, family is important. When
your child is facing down a scary illness, like cancer, it tests your strength as a parent. St. Jude is
wonderful in that families never receive a bill for treatment, travel, housing, or food. That takes
the weight off the parent’s shoulders as they are helping their child through their ordeal. If you
would like to donate to this important cause.