I join the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge with a story shaped by hard work, resilience, and a lifelong connection to the land and the road.
I own a trucking company, where long miles and demanding schedules were part of everyday life. That same discipline and endurance has defined much of my journey behind the handlebars as well.
Raised on the family farm I grew up understanding responsibility early; where work starts before sunrise, commitment isn’t optional, the day doesn’t end before sundown and giving back is a part of life. In 2017 I was able to be a part of our community taking 21 semis and trucks loaded with hay, oats, fencing and other supplies from northern Michigan to farms in Ashland Kansas after wildfires damaged crops and livestock. The foundation set by my parents and my community have carried forward into my life, where persistence and bullheadedness are second nature. Years ago, my path took a serious turn when I was involved in a major bike accident where I collided with the rear of an unlit horse drawn Amish buggy while on my Softail Harley. The crash left a lasting mark, but it didn’t end my relationship with riding. Instead, it reshaped it, it added a deeper awareness, respect for the road, and a renewed appreciation for every mile since.
I learned of the Hoka Hey through three new riders from the last Challenge, Lucas Blackford, Erick Rydd and Rob Cromwell who rode the challenge together and live in my small town. I had ridden with Lucas for many years prior to his run and knew they would be finishers. Stepping into the Hoka Hey Challenge as a new rider this year, I bring grit, perspective, and a quiet determination earned the hard way. I want to take on this challenge, not just to ride it, but to truly honor it and my nephew, Luke, who I will be riding for.
I will be raising funds and awareness for his memorial scholarship. Luke’s birthday is August 3rd, the day after this year’s challenge kicks off, and that day is typically the annual scholarship day for Luke in our community. The Luke Kartes Memorial Scholarship is given to graduating seniors or 5th year students pursuing a skilled trade or an engineering career path. Luke was a 17 year old junior who was smart, intelligent, funny, joyful, empathetic, mechanical, great with computers, a generous soul, and had a huge heart. He would do anything for anyone and was a friend to all. He brightened everyone’s day just by being there. He made you laugh with his quirky humor, was kind and fun to be around. He was a great son, grandson, brother, nephew and friend. Luke loved his buddies and spending time in the metal shop at school.(He earned the nickname "General Metals" from his classmates) He was excited to go to college to get an engineering degree to open a shop with his best friend, Ike, which is why the scholarship helps to support future engineers or tradesmen. Please consider donating to allow us to continue paying it forward in his memory.
"The Operator"
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