Monday, August 3, 2026

Meet The Returning Rider # 1218 Dale Liechty





My name is Dale Liechty, rider #1218.
I grew up in northern Indiana and started riding motorcycles when I was 15 years old. Before long, I was competing in flat track racing, which I did for five years until it was time to get a “real job.”That real job became a 28-year career in law enforcement as a police officer. After retiring, I spent several years overseas training police officers and sharing the experience I had gained throughout my career.  


 
 
In the mid-1990s, I discovered my passion for long-distance motorcycle riding. Since then, I’ve completed the SCMA Four Corners Tour twice—once clockwise and once counterclockwise—as well as several Iron Butt rides. One of my most memorable adventures was riding from Key West, Florida, to Prudhoe Bay, Alaska, with a close friend. In 2017, I also fulfilled a longtime goal by successfully completing the Iron Butt Rally. I’ve followed the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge since it first began and always dreamed of participating. In 2024, that dream became a reality when I was selected to ride in the Challenge.At the starting line, I found myself next to Kelly Swihart (#1141), and we began the journey together. When we reached Key West during the hurricane, we teamed up with another rider, Gonen Minuskin (#1200). The three of us rode the remainder of the 2024 Hoka Hey Challenge together, forming friendships and memories that will last a lifetime.
 



 
 
 I’m honored to have the opportunity to ride the 2026 Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge, and I’m especially looking forward to once again sharing the road with Kelly and reconnecting with old friends while making new ones along the way.
 
 

 
For this year’s Challenge, I’ve chosen to support Camp Golden Wing, a remarkable organization that provides children from Kentucky and Indiana who are battling cancer with the opportunity to spend a week at camp, creating joyful memories and simply being kids.Every dollar I raise will go directly toward helping send more children with cancer to Camp Golden Wing, giving them an unforgettable week of hope, friendship, and fun.



Sunday, August 2, 2026

Meet The Returning Rider # 917 Louis Preciado

 

I am Louis, (Louie), Luis Preciado all of the above. Lol
Aka Lone Rider #917 of my 10 siblings I am #7.
I will be participating in my 5th Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge this year.  You've heard the old saying some people never learn,  Well that's not me.  I learned the first time what this Challenge is all about.  If you're new to this Challenge I'm sure you've heard of the Grueling conditions we are subjected to, A quick run down is an Exel spreadsheet with line by line Hwy directions for the route we are to take.  Must make it to the next check point to receive the next set of directions. No GPS.  No motels, you sleep by your bike, a tent is allowed.  Trackers on our bikes to keep us safe and honest on our locations. 
 
 
 This year 11,000 miles with a goal of completing within 2 weeks.  Averaging 800-900 miles a day is a good strategy but very hard when we aren't allowed on Interstates, all secondary roads,  Again those are the guidelines and may sound frightening and challenging, but that's not what this is about.
 
 

 
  I am here again for the true purpose of the challenge which is to break you down and force you the face your darkest fears and wrong doings within your life.  To quote our founder Jim Red Cloud "To be built up to be the person God intended you to be."
  We aren't a bunch of riders crisscrossing the United States we are also encouraged to pick a charity of our choosing to support.  This year I'll be supporting the MS Society due to personal family reasons.  I look forward to meeting new riders and making friends out on the open road.  We affect strangers all throughout our lives, why not affect them in a positive way.
 


 

"When I leave this World I may not be Rich but I hope to Be Remembered"

Hoka Hey!!
Rider #917

Saturday, August 1, 2026

Meet The Returning Rider # 1146 Kerri Robinson

 




Hi friends and family! It’s that time again! Hoka Hey!!

I am honored to be taking on my second Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge starting August 2nd from Woodstock, IL. My first Hoka Hey journey was in 2024 starting in Daytona down to Key West through Hurricane Debbie all the way to Homer, Alaska, and it became one of the most powerful and spiritual experiences of my life. It challenged me physically, mentally, and emotionally — but it also showed me the incredible strength that comes from riding with a purpose.



This year, I am riding for something bigger than myself.

My “why” begins with the incredible boys we call our heroes — those living with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD). I am riding to raise money for  Mile Monsters Inc., an organization dedicated to helping these young men live their best lives. Every mile I ride is for them. Every challenge I face is a reminder that they face battles every single day, and I want them to know they are seen, supported, and loved.

The Hoka Hey Challenge is not an ordinary motorcycle ride. It is a test of endurance, faith, and determination — more than 10,000 miles on secondary backroads, sleeping next to my motorcycle, riding without GPS, avoiding tickets, and navigating thousands of miles while embracing every challenge along the way.



This ride is also deeply personal. I ride in honor of my late husband, Brian who was tragically killed on his motorcycle in 2025 by a drunk driver. His love for riding and the freedom of the open road continues to inspire me. Through my grief, I have found a way to turn pain into purpose and continue moving forward.

My goal is to raise as much money as possible for the Mile Monsters boys while allowing this journey to continue shaping me — helping me grow stronger, find healing, embrace freedom, and deepen my spirituality.

Every donation, no matter the size, helps make a difference. You are not just supporting a motorcycle ride — you are helping support real heroes and their families. 100% of the money raised goes to Mile Monsters Inc for the boys.

I invite you to join me on this journey. Follow the miles, share the mission, and help me ride farther for those who need us most.

I ride for the boys.
I ride for hope.
I ride for healing.
I ride because every mile matters.

Thank you for your prayers, believing in this mission and helping me make every mile count.

- Kerri “Gritty Belle” Hoka Hey #1146
Mega Monster #24

Donation 🔗 💗 https://givebutter.com/HH2026/kerrigrittybellerobinson1

Friday, July 31, 2026

Meet The New Rider # 1339 Ed Klok


 


Meet The New Rider # 1265 Mark Campbell

 


My name is Mark Campbell. I retired after a career in commercial aviation maintenance with Delta Air Lines and FedEx Express. My passion for motorcycles began while growing up on a farm near Fairmount, Indiana—the hometown of James Dean—and it's been a lifelong adventure ever since.


 

In 2004, my wife, Karen, and I completed our first Iron Butt Association SaddleSore 1000 together, and that's when the long-distance riding bug truly took hold. Since then, I've completed more than 100 certified Iron Butt rides and traveled by motorcycle to all 50 states, every Canadian province, the Yukon and Northwest Territories.. I've been fortunate to share many of those miles with Karen, and after retiring, I wrote two books about our adventures: Long Distance Addiction: My Roads to Recovery and Two-Up Adventures.


 

Why the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge? Simply because I love to ride. Over the years, I've met several Hoka Hey finishers, listened to their stories, and knew that one day I wanted to experience the challenge for myself. I know it will push me well beyond my comfort zone, but that's exactly what makes an adventure worthwhile.


 

As I take on this challenge, I want this ride to represent something greater than my own personal accomplishment. I'll be riding in support of Mile Monsters Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping boys with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy live their best lives. If you'd like to support their mission, you can do so here:

Mile Monsters Hoka Hey Team 2026

Thursday, July 30, 2026

Meet The Returing Rider # 1027 Cheyenne Beaty

 

My name is Cheyenne Beatty, Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge rider 1027, from Owenton, Ky. I’m 58 years old. I have been married for 25 years. I have 3 children and 3 grandchildren. I’ve been riding motorcycles for over 25 years. I love exploring God’s creation any way I can but, especially while riding long distances on my bike. I ride 10 to 15,000 miles a year, usually incorporating Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. I wish that number was higher, but I work a lot and enjoy supporting my family in their endeavors. I am Iron Butt Association member number: IBA72997. I’ve ridden in 44 states and Canada. Other than riding, my interests are God, family, traveling and any outdoor adventures. While my family and friends are incredibly supportive, they just don’t understand why I or anybody else would want to sleep outside next to their bike or ride so many miles a day for consecutive days in all kinds of weather. Most of them don’t ride either so it is like the adage: “if I have to explain you wouldn’t understand”. I am forever grateful for their support, even more so because they don’t understand. I try to explain it’s like Cannonball Run meets Amazing Race. I crave solitude, freedom, adventure, and comradery. You could say I have a “Seize the day”, “We’re not getting out of here alive” approach to living life. This fits perfectly with the Hoka Hey, “It’s a good day to die” moto. I prefer great experiences over great possessions.

I first heard about the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge in 2009, when I rode from Kentucky to Key West, FL. I stopped at a Harley Davidson dealership where; I saw a man laying out some Hoka Hey patches on a vest. I’m always up for a challenge or new adventure especially on my motorcycle. As soon as I got home, I started researching the Challenge. I even completed an application! Then life happened, and it just didn’t work out. In 2015, I was able to participate in the Memorial Ride. Getting to meet some of the riders and organizers was great! More than 100 riders riding as one group over 500 miles from Red Cloud, NE into the Black Hills of South Dakota finishing with a parade down Main Street in Sturgis during the Rally!

I was finally able to officially participate for the first time in 2020. I have also attended the Annual Taco Run in Medicine Park, OK 2021, 2022, 2024 and 2025, the Hoka Hey Rendezvous in 2021, 2023 and 2025 and Hop’s Rally in 2025. I was blessed to receive the Hoka Hey Honor award in 2021. What an incredible experience topped only by the people involved! It truly is a Hoka Hey family. Supporting each other and meeting to ride and ride to meet regardless of the distance.

Like most everyone else, the best advice I have received is to “ride your own ride and hydrate, hydrate, hydrate”. I would also add; get enough rest, take pictures, and enjoy every minute.

My chosen charity this year is Parkinson’s Foundation Inc. which is a 501(c) (3) non-profit charity. My Mom is dealing with the effects of Parkinson’s Disease, so this cause is very near and dear to me. Please consider donating. No amount is too big or too small.

Meet The New Rider # 1327 Tim Butler

 


My name is Tim Butler #1327. I grew up in Cincinnati, Ohio and for the last 25 years have been living in Ft. Myers, Florida. I first started riding motorcycles in 1973 with a Yamaha 180 twin I bought for $72.00. This will be my first Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge

 


I feel very fortunate to be participating this year. When I applied in February 2025, I was told my number was so high there was a very slim chance of being included in the 2026 challenge. A week or so ago I was contacted and asked if I was still interested. A few days later I’m in!! 

 

 


I first heard of the Hoka Hey Challenge on the internet. Over the years I have done a lot of motorcycle camping and long-distance riding. In 2021 I participated in the Guinness Book world record longest poker run. 

 

Finishing this will be one of the highlights of my motorcycling experiences, a true test of mental and physical stamina. 

 


I  will be supporting the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation Boys and Girls Club ..If you care to make a donation you can do it here.

Wednesday, July 29, 2026

Meet The New Rider # 1273 Sandra Combs

 


Hi! My name is Sandra Combs. Most folks know me a “Harley” For nearly five decades, my life has been defined by service. I proudly served my country for more than 20½ years in the United States Army, followed by 26½ years as a Department of Army Civilian (DAC). Throughout my career, I have lived by the Army Values—Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Selfless Service, Honor, Integrity, and Personal Courage.  Those values did not end with retirement; they became the foundation for my next mission. I first learned of the Hoka Hey in 2018 after returning from a one-year mobilization tour with my Reserve unit. The hoka hey started and ended in Medicine Park. I was intrigued and needed to know more about the Hoka Hey Challenge of 10,000 miles in 10 days. What it stood for, and the significance behind it.

I learned that the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge was founded by James “Jim” Red Cloud. Hoka Hey was never intended to be just another endurance ride. It is a journey of self-discovery that calls riders to test their spirit, confront adversity, and emerge stronger—not for personal glory, but so they can better serve others. Its mission is to enrich lives through respect, honor, integrity, and compassion; empower individuals through strength, determination, and courage. Jim Red Cloud’s vision is why I want to ride the HHMC.


In August 2026, I will ride the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge on my Harley-Davidson Tri Glide.  This ride is so much bigger than me.  I’m honored to be a proud supporter of the Mile Monsters Inc as my charity. By helping to raise awareness and support the boys affected with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) and help lessen the load for their families.. Every mile represents perseverance, every checkpoint reflects commitment, and every sunrise reminds me that life’s greatest adventures begin when we choose purpose over comfort. 

 


 

Please consider donating to Mile Monster to help the boys affected with this disease feel like a hero and put a smile back on their face. Any amount no matter how big or small can make a profound impact on the boy’s life and their families. Thank-You.

 DONATE HERE


 

Tuesday, July 28, 2026

Meet The Returning Rider # 939 Robert Goffinski

 


Well it's that time again to bond human being with machine and become one to take on the 2026 Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge, one more time. I will be turning 79 years old this year and have been blessed with relatively good health so it's hard to say no to the challenge especially as this year it starts and returns to my old stomping grounds Woodstock Illinois. 

 


This will be my 5th Hoka Hey And according to my wife my last, maybe. This long distance riding, especially the challenge, gets into your blood and besides it's a good excuse to leave the worries behind of everyday life and hit the road. This year I haven't been riding as much as I usually do. Maggie and I made the annual Taco run in medicine park earlier this year and then headed out to Illinois to visit our daughter back in the northwest suburbs of Chicago. 

 


Last July I purchased a 2025 ultra street glide and have outfitted it with the pizza box and custom saddlebags. I've added a couple hard boxes on top of the pizza box to securely house my helmet and other gear. As most of you know I don't wear my helmet all the time but there will be states where I have to wear the helmet because of the law and I need to pack the helmet along with me. Two years ago the helmet came in handy when I crashed but I still got a concussion and suffered bleeding on the brain which sidelined me for a couple days in the hospital but I still made it to Homer Alaska after releasing myself from the hospital against doctor's orders. Can you say stubborn old man? I hope I've learned a lesson from that experience but again they say you can't teach an old dog new tricks, I guess we'll see. 

 


I'm riding this year for Mile Monsters Inc. The money we raise doesn't go to a big corporation or foundation. The money we raise we see directly affecting young boys lives. Boys we have met and shared time with. The money we raise, we can see the actual direct effect to these boys and their families. You don't see that direct manifestation by giving to some national fundraising foundation. That's why I have chosen Mile Monsters, Inc. 







 

There aren't too many of us old Gray hairs (what hair you say) still knocking out 10,000 miles in 12 days on two wheels, but I'll be there doing my thing.

Gopher, Hoka Hey !!

Monday, July 27, 2026

Meet The New Rider # 1326 Hal French

 



My name is Hal French. I am 72 years old. I live in Las Vegas, Nevada. My love for motorcycles started at age nine and continued through my teens.  Started a family, and motorcycles were put on hold. My wife Patricia will be my biggest cheerleader during the Hoka HeyHoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge. Patricia and I have 5 adult children, 12 grandkids, and 1 great-grandkid on the way. In 1999, I purchased a Dyna Wide Glide, rekindled my love, and haven’t stopped riding since. Two years ago I decided to start tracking and certifying my longer rides. I’ll be riding Haze, my 2021 HD CVO Limited, in the 2026 Hoka Hey Challenge. 
 


I want to ride in the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge because I am ready for true Spiritual and Personal Growth. Stripping life down to the essentials of the open road will give me a fresh, new perspective on the world.
 

 

Sunday, July 26, 2026

Meet The Returning Rider # 1235 Daryl Thompson

 



I've heard the 2026 Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge will be a "doozy", but I have to admit, 2024 had its challenges for me. Hurricane Debby; jumping an alligator; ear infections. But those challenges were met and overcome. That was the point for me.  I needed to know if I still had the grit to persevere, and here I am returning for another run!  

 

While 2024 was a ride of discovery, 2026 will be a ride of continued growth. 2026 is not a challenge against my Hoka Hey family. It's about challenging myself. I can do better. A better me makes me better for others.  
 




As a retired LEO and Past Chapter President of the Thin Blue Line LEMC, helping my blue family is important too. That's why I choose The Thin Blue Line LEMC Foundation as my charity. The foundation is an all-volunteer run 501(c)3 foundation that helps to support the families of our law enforcement and military veterans. 100% of contributions go to the families of these warriors that paid the ultimate price for our comfort and safety. Please help me to help them. They have already sacrificed enough.  
 

 

Saturday, July 25, 2026

Meet The New Rider # 1271 Chris McIntosh

 My name is Chris McIntosh. I’m a born and raised New Englander. I am also a Marine Corps combat veteran (2006-2010) who has served in both Iraq and Afghanistan.
As a veteran I value and respect discipline, integrity, resilience, and perseverance and I carry those principles into every ride as I’ve been riding motorcycles off and on for most of my life.
Long Distance motorcycle riding is more than just a ride for me. It is where I feel the most at home and a place to clear my head. It’s where all my stress just disappears. To me it’s form of moving meditation. 

Long distance motorcycle riding is more than a challenge to me; it’s an opportunity to test myself and embrace the journey. Therefore, I am honored to be chosen to ride in the Hoka Hey Motorcyce Challenge as I look forward to connecting with other riders and becoming part of this while earning my place one mile at a time.

Meet The New Rider # 1271 Chris McIntosh

 

My name is Chris McIntosh. I’m a born and raised New Englander. I am also a Marine Corps combat veteran (2006-2010) who has served in both Iraq and Afghanistan.
As a veteran I value and respect discipline, integrity, resilience, and perseverance and I carry those principles into every ride as I’ve been riding motorcycles off and on for most of my life.
Long Distance motorcycle riding is more than just a ride for me. It is where I feel the most at home and a place to clear my head. It’s where all my stress just disappears. To me it’s form of moving meditation. 

Long distance motorcycle riding is more than a challenge to me; it’s an opportunity to test myself and embrace the journey. Therefore, I am honored to be chosen to ride in the Hoka Hey Motorcyce Challenge as I look forward to connecting with other riders and becoming part of this while earning my place one mile at a time.

Meet The New Rider # 1271 Chris McIntosh

  

My name is Chris McIntosh. I’m a born and raised New Englander. I am also a Marine Corps combat veteran (2006-2010) who has served in both Iraq and Afghanistan.
As a veteran I value and respect discipline, integrity, resilience, and perseverance and I carry those principles into every ride as I’ve been riding motorcycles off and on for most of my life.
Long Distance motorcycle riding is more than just a ride for me. It is where I feel the most at home and a place to clear my head. It’s where all my stress just disappears. To me it’s form of moving meditation. 

Long distance motorcycle riding is more than a challenge to me; it’s an opportunity to test myself and embrace the journey. Therefore, I am honored to be chosen to ride in the Hoka Hey Motorcyce Challenge as I look forward to connecting with other riders and becoming part of this while earning my place one mile at a time.

Friday, July 24, 2026

Meet The Returning Rider # 1156 Craig Tooley

 



As a returning rider, my second Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge, I plan on finishing sooner than I did two years ago.  I rode with my Mom...Gypsy, rider #985 and sister...Tooley, rider #1066. It was a family affair and a great adventure. Looking to build on that experience and add new miles and memories this year! Wanting to be there for the end of the ride party.

I love this Hoka Hey family that I have found through my Mom and sister. Can't wait to see everyone again and catch up before we do this thing!! Had a come to the Lord moment on my last run and looking forward to see what He has in store for myself and the rest of us this year. This can truly be spiritual for sure, you surely get out of it what you put into it. Give it your all, and leave nothing on the table.

 

I'm riding for Mile Monsters Inc . again this go around...another great family within a family. We Monsters truly are the best in my opinion, great riders for a Monster charity. Our Heroes have Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, these boys truly exemplify what it means to be a Hero. We help them live their best lives, please follow along and help us to do so. 

 
Can't wait, let's do this!!!

 

Thursday, July 23, 2026

Meet Te Returning Rider # 1125 Robert Rose

 


I was born in March of 1957  in Muskegon, Michigan and we moved to Frankfort.  In my early years I found my passion in heavy machinery while working alongside my father and motor cycles while growing up. I met my wife in green bay Wisconsin while I was working at a job site there. I decided to move there permanently were we raise our 2 children in suamico, WI. I opened my own dragline company called badger crane and dragline and worked with the operating engineers local 139 until my retirement.

 

While  we were raising our kids I lost sight of riding motorcycles until 2001 when I bought my first ultra glide  and re found my passion of riding while hanging out with my friends and going on rides and meeting new people.

 

Upon my retirement I took my first hoka hey  challenge alongside my brother Tim and I am looking forward to completing this ride along side him again.

 


I will be be raising money for a program call hogs for hero were they help wounded veterans get motorcycles.