Growing up in the
flatlands of Indiana one would not think that the adventure of the open
sea or mountains would be my calling. My work-life offered me
opportunities to live on a sailboat, explore sailing the open ocean,
scuba diving, and mountaineering. However, my transportation outside of
work came on two wheels for on and off-road. After riding most of my
life, riding became my passion after retirement. I’ve experienced much
of the Northern Hemisphere behind bars, riding in 49 states and 11
Canadian provinces with many miles of the Iron Butt style.
I
first heard of the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge about ten years ago,
but never imagined that one day I would be honored by being accepted to
join the highly accomplished, elite, long-distance riders of the Hoka
Hey. I get my opportunity to start the 2026 Hoka Hey Motorcycle
Challenge in Woodstock Illinois. It will again challenge man and machine
to ride against Mother Nature utilizing their own abilities and
limitations, similar to warriors of old. The warriors had the challenge
of supporting their families while traveling by horse, their machine, to
hunt and gather. We, the modern day warriors, will be following a
precise trail on our path to reach the end, our nourishment. Along the
way, we as those before us, will not be using modern navigational tools,
but will utilize a list of turn-by-turn directions. We will also be
sleeping under the stars next to our iron horse, not in a building, just
like the warriors of old.
Not
only are we challenged to follow the ways of old but to raise awareness
of charities. The charity that I have chosen to work with is New Hope.
New Hope was started after one person asked why they had to tell their
story of abuse so many times, up to 12 times, reliving the trauma each
time. Now, New Hope, by working with all the pertinent offices, allows
the traumatized child to tell the story only once. Afterwards, New Hope
helps navigate the road to recovery. The donations received will help to
continue this service to the children in need.
My local HOG chapter out of
Smoky Mountain Harley-Davidson® is assisting me in my endeavor.
Founded in 2004, Smoky Mountain Harley-Davidson® has proudly served East Tennessee riders for over two decades,
growing into one of the region’s most recognized and community-driven
Harley-Davidson destinations. With three full-service dealerships and
multiple retail locations across the Smokies, we are dedicated to
fueling the spirit of adventure, camaraderie, and freedom that defines
the motorcycling lifestyle.
As home to the Dragon H.O.G. Chapter, we are honored to support our members as they take on epic challenges like the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge—a
ride that embodies grit, endurance, and the true heart of motorcycling.
Our chapter and our dealership family stand behind every mile.
Each year, Smoky Mountain Harley-Davidson® hosts a full calendar of signature events and charity rides, bringing thousands of riders together for causes that matter. From large-scale rallies like Smoky Mountain Bike Week,
to our themed seasonal rides, poker runs, veteran and first-responder
fundraisers, and women-focused riding initiatives, our dealership is
committed to making a measurable impact across East Tennessee and
beyond.
Our Maryville, TN location is also home to The Shed Smokehouse & Juke Joint,
a nationally known live-music venue and gathering place where riders,
musicians, and visitors come together for concerts and camaraderie.
At
Smoky Mountain Harley-Davidson®, we believe in riding with purpose,
building community, and supporting every journey—whether it’s across
town or across the country. We look forward to continuing our legacy of
service, adventure, and two-wheeled passion.
Facebook Smoky Mountain Harley Davidson
Website https://smh-d.com/
Smoky Mountain Bike Week https://smbikeweek.com/
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