Meet The New Rider # 1297 Dennis Pacholski

 

My name is Dennis Pacholski. I’m originally from Chicago, IL, and for the past 11 years, I’ve called the
Houston, TX area home, where I live with my wife, Deb, and our two cats, Jack and Tyra. My journey into motorcycling began in 2010 while living in Northern Illinois. At the time, I knew very little about
motorcycles—but I had always wanted to ride and finally took the plunge. That decision opened the
door to an entirely new world: one filled with incredible people, unforgettable experiences, and a
growing fascination with long-distance riding.

 

Over the years, I’ve lived in various parts of the country—including Columbia, MD, and the Minneapolis,
MN metro area—each place shaping my life and perspective in unique ways. I currently work as a Senior
Industrial Fire Alarm Designer with Austin Fire Systems, where I specialize in industrial applications for
the Oil and Gas industry. My role has taken me across the country and around the globe, designing
systems for military installations and major projects like solar fields.

As I continued to ride, I learned about the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge, and was immediately drawn
to its purpose and its people. I’ve been fortunate to connect with several other Hoka Hey participants—
each one encouraging me to “go for it. It will change your life.” Now, I am doing just that.
My participation in the Hoka Hey Challenge is about more than personal accomplishment. My family has
a strong military background: both of my grandfathers served in World War II, and my uncles were in
the Marines and Army during the Vietnam War. I also have many friends who served—and through
them, I’ve witnessed firsthand the effects of PTSD. That’s why I’m riding to raise funds and awareness
for the PTSD Foundation of America and Camp Hope.

 

Camp Hope’s mission is “to bring hope and healing to combat veterans and their families suffering from
the effects of combat-related Post Traumatic Stress.” Their work supporting veterans and first
responders is vital, and it’s a cause I am honored to stand behind.
I look forward to the Challenge ahead and to crossing that finish line with pride—knowing I’ve ridden for
a purpose greater than myself.

 

Support Our Heroes– Support Our My Ride
In August of 2026, I’m honored to take on the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge—a grueling,
cross-country endurance ride that pushes both rider and machine to the limit. But I’m not doing it
just for the thrill. I’m riding to raise awareness and funds for a cause that hits close to home:
veterans and first responders living with PTSD.
I’m partnering with the PTSD Foundation of America and Camp Hope, whose mission is to
“bring hope and healing to combat veterans and their families suffering from the effects of
combat-related Post Traumatic Stress.” Their work is life-changing—and life-saving—and I
want to support their efforts however I can.
Here’s where I need your help.
This challenge is self-funded, and the costs—fuel, bike prep, bike maintenance, gear, entry
fees—add up quickly. I’m asking for your support in two ways:
1. Donate directly to Camp Hope and the PTSD Foundation, to support the incredible
work they do for our nation's heroes.
2. Help cover the costs of my participation, so I can focus on completing the Challenge
safely and successfully.
No contribution is too small, and 100% of the funds donated to the PTSD Foundation go directly
to support their programs.

 

���� To donate to the PTSD Foundation/Camp Hope, visit: [PTSD Foundation ]
���� To support my Hoka Hey Challenge expenses, you can send contributions via Zelle:
ID/phone number – 847-989-1397, Dennis Pacholski
Whether you give $5 or $50, you’re helping make a difference. Thank you for your generosity
and for standing behind those who’ve served us all.
Ride hard. Finish strong. Do it with purpose.
Dennis Pacholski
Hoka Hey Rider #1297