The Spirit of Hoka Hey

Everything that happens to us in life leaves some trace behind; everything contributes imperceptibly to make us who or what we are.  The greatest gift in life, is the gift of life.  Jim & I have been blessed with the most amazing family and friends anyone can possibly have... Thank you all for being there!  Cheers to you and to anyone that truly understands what we are trying to accomplish with the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge; to the quiet ones that don't contribute to the rhetoric and to the ones with the calming voice of reason (Thank you Pauline).

True; the HHMC has attracted some of the best competitors in the world - BUT - let us not forget that, from its inception, the event was meant to test the will and determination of the individual.  It was never intended to be a competition or a race and, in fact, the Terms & Conditions clearly state that it is a challenge of endurance, navigation, long distance riding skills and that participants MUST NOT COMPETE IN ANY MANNER.

By and large, our participants really do get that.  It is the spectators and supporters that don’t seem to understand however and that fact truly saddens me.  I feel they have missed the point of the event entirely.

So… for them, I repeat once more that the theme of this year's ride is ‘Wolakota’.  Wolakota is a word in the Lakota language that means reconciliation, or understanding each other in a good and peaceful way.  It represents a way of living in peace and community with everything, abstaining from greed; treating one another with respect, and friendship.  To live Wolakota is to live a life of honor and integrity.  Living in accordance with this belief encourages people to step forward and take accountability; to work together to right the wrongs of this world and acknowledge the strengths and wisdom that all cultures hold in common. 

My respect and appreciation go to riders like Matt Wolf (#785), Tim Menzie (#670), Rich Griffith (#725) and any one else that took the time to stay back with other riders who were in need of assistance.  These Challengers knew they could place well in the field but chose to let go of their ego and take care of their brothers and sisters on the road.  You are what this event is truly all about.

Still, before they left New York, participants were told that the first 4 finishers would each receive an arrow as a trophy and that they could either keep the trophy or sell it back to us for a split of the entry fees collected.  After verifying that they followed the route according to the driving directions, we spoke with these top 4 contenders and it was understood that, a polygraph exam would have been required to prove or disprove that any one conducted themselves in any way contrary to the restrictions outlined in the Terms & Conditions.  Therefore, as promised in the Rider’s Briefing, the first 4 finishers (after Jeff Kohn DQ’d himself) were offered the trophy.  To a man, they chose to keep the arrow in lieu of prize money and we commend them.  In recognition of their effort we are offering these riders along with the rest of our top ten finishers $1,000 or their entry into the 2014 Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge!!!  

For crossing the finish line first we recognize:

     1.  Robert Crawford #50

     2.  Bubba Netherland #5

     3.  Rob Carlo, #341

     4.  Dan Buis, #8

The rest of our riders crossed the finish line as listed in the table below and we congratulate them for having the determination, stamina and skill required to complete this grueling ride of over 7,500 miles!!       

Rider #	First Name	Last Name	Nickname	Check-in Time	Check-in Date
5	Karl "Bubba"	NETHERLAND		12:46 PM	6/30/2013
50	Robert	Crawford		12:46 PM	6/30/2013
341	Robert	Carlo		12:04 AM	7/1/2013
8	Daniel	Buis		12:11 AM	7/1/2013
348	MARK	HODGE		5:34 AM	7/1/2013
628	Larry	Murray	DeadMan	8:42 AM	7/1/2013
750	George	Jackman		11:59 PM	7/1/2013
736	Billy	Fultz		1:15 PM	7/2/2013
332	Heinz	Spielvogel		7:18 PM	7/2/2013
190	Richard	Drake	Chris	11:29 PM	7/2/2013
650	jane	bixby		3:58 AM	7/3/2013
652	Schatzi	Brown		3:58 AM	7/3/2013
788	Edward	Frank		5:04 AM	7/3/2013
739	Frank	Zygela		9:04 AM	7/3/2013
207	Milton	Vincent	Bubba	10:44 AM	7/3/2013
116	Jim	Herold		12:46 PM	7/3/2013
67	Michael	Conner		12:49 PM	7/3/2013
618	Kenneth	Aston	KC   (Jumper)	5:31 PM	7/3/2013
670	Tim	Menzie		5:47 PM	7/3/2013
359	RIP	Alexander		8:38 PM	7/3/2013
725	Richard	Griffith		8:38 PM	7/3/2013
792	Scott	Chrispen	Critter	8:38 PM	7/3/2013
797	Chris	Parker		8:38 PM	7/3/2013
780	Randy	Black		8:52 PM	7/3/2013
793	JAMIE	WILSON		8:52 PM	7/3/2013
83	Lee	Smith	Problem Child	12:51 PM	7/4/2013
91	David	Lutes		12:52 PM	7/4/2013
342	William	Reynolds		5:58 PM	7/4/2013
685	Wendy	Battles	TA-TE	5:58 PM	7/4/2013
751	David	Elizondo		12:08 AM	7/5/2013
323	DALE	MARTIN	Daytona Dale	2:51 AM	7/5/2013
724	Arthur N.	Pond		2:51 AM	7/5/2013
646	Thomas	Schmidt		7:15 AM	7/5/2013
789	Kurt	Kvennejorde		8:15 AM	7/5/2013
794	Bob	Stegeman		8:15 AM	7/5/2013
782	Charles R.	Butler III	Eazy	7:52 PM	7/5/2013
752 & 755	Matthew Klebe	Kelly Babbin		8:31 PM	7/5/2013
664	Elvin	Angel	Al	11:20 PM	7/5/2013
709	Bradley	Mathews		11:20 PM	7/5/2013
383	Eula	Rose	Junie	11:20 PM	7/5/2013
85	Chuck	Marble		9:34 AM	7/7/2013
168	Jeff	Kohn	Rude Jeff	8:50 PM	6/30/2013
658	Bob	Vincent	PITA	3:33 PM	7/2/2013
290	Walter	Ledig		6:50 AM	7/3/2014
705	Paul	Mazza	rocky	4:00 PM	7/3/2013
186	Greg	Shafer	Morigderunner	12:00 PM	7/4/2013
779	Steve	Briscoe		4:04 PM	7/5/2013

  Finally… we all want what is best for HHMC going forward and that means that we cannot promote or condone the Challenge as a race.  As such, how the riders place is not where the focus of the event should lie and it has been decided that this year would set the precedence of awarding arrows to those who completed the Challenge in the spirit of Hoka Hey.  

For the attributes that most closely reflect the true spirit of the Wolakota, we recognize:

    1.   Mark Hodge, #348 – Black Arrow for RESPECT

    2.   Rob Carlo, #341 – Red Arrow for HONOR

    3.   Jeff Kohn, #168 – Yellow Arrow for INTEGRITY

    4.   Junie Rose, #383 – White Arrow for COMPASSION

Going in to the future, this is the format that we intend to use to recognize the true winners of the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge.  

A Year Like This

Not since 2010 have we had a year quite like this one.  I had thought we had all of the bugs worked out of the system when we went in to this year’s ride – but – whenever you coordinate something on this scale and involve as many people as the HHMC does, there are bound to be problem areas that smack you on the head and remind you that you don’t have all the answers.

This year’s checkpoints have been phenomenal though!!  We could not be happier with the responses we've gotten from the dealerships about our riders or from the riders about the checkpoints.  It seems as if everyone is enjoying themselves and is pleased to be a part of this great event.  It is this sort of positive feedback that has kept me going back for more of this madness 4 years running.  And in year’s like this, that feedback is more meaningful than ever.

 By “year’s like this”, I am referring to the fatal accident that cost the life of Rider #737, John Anderson and the terrible accident that landed our friend, Rider #612, Carla DuBois in ICU.   We all know the risk that is inherent to motorcycling but such platitudes don’t fill the void and cannot heal the injured.   So - we pray.  We come together and we try to prop each other up and to be strong for the ones who suffer, who worry, who grieve.

This has also been a tough year for us because it coincides with the birthday of our late son, Nick Durham - he would be 33 years old today.  Nick passed away in the spring of 2011 when complications from the flu turned in to pneumonia.  And though he was more of a surfer than a biker, he loved the HHMC as an expression of freedom and self-determination.  He was a bright, gregarious, thoughtful, adventurous young man when he was alive.  Now… He is sorely missed.

As I said, I don’t have all (any) of the answers but I do agree with the thought that life short and we need to live each day to the fullest.  Whether that means a free wheeling lifestyle or deeper more meaningful, purpose driven life is up to the individual.  But we should never let a day go by without saying “I love you” to our children, or taking time to enjoy the sunset.  We have to be take care that we don’t get so caught up in what’s at the finish line that we forget to enjoy the ride!

Hoka Hey

2013 Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge

The Organizers of the 2013 Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge are ready to get this show on the road!  The schedule is set, the maps are printed and now all we need are our riders!!

Wolf’s Run:  The start and finish of this year’s Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge will be in the heart of the Seneca Nation territory and our host once again will be Wolf’s Run Transport.  Located at 12795 Route 438, Irving, NY 14081 (716-532-4005).  Wolf’s Run is just 8 minutes from I-90 (New York State Thruway) Exit 58. 

Google Map to Wolf's Run

Google Map to Wolf's Run

Camping, restaurant, carwash gas station and convenience store are available on site but if you and your supporters would prefer to stay in a hotel, a LIST OF HOTELS near Wolf’s Run has been provided for your reference.

Registration and Kick-Off Party (June 21^st) Registration will be held on the 21st of June beginning at 8:00 a.m. by the Pavilion at Wolf’s Run.  Challengers will have a scheduled time to register which will be provided under separate cover.  To expedite the process, riders should arrive promptly with your (1) driver’s license, (2) motorcycle registration and (3) proof of insurance in hand.  Participants should have their tracking devices installed and bikes ready for inspection.  Bikes do not need to be packed since we only intend to verify odometer, VIN & tracking.  Late registration will be held from 9:00 a.m. to noon on Saturday June 22nd.

A reception for Challengers and guests is being held that evening in the Wolf's Run Pavilion from 6:00 to 10:00 p.m..  We will have food, drinks and door prizes so, be sure to join us and get to know your fellow Challengers before you hit the highway!  Buses will be available to take people to Cabana Sams and the Beach Club at Sunset Bay so you can keep the party rolling all night long!

Note: I am looking for a few volunteers (no participants please) to help with the registration and bike inspections.  Please give me a call (605-890-0386) or email me (beth.durham@hokaheychallenge.com) if you know someone who would be willing to help.

Rider’s Briefing (June 22nd): A mandatory Rider’s Briefing will be held in the Wolf’s Run Pavilion from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. on the 22nd.  This is a sit down meeting where we will go over the Terms & Conditions and rules of engagement followed by a chance to get all of your questions answered. Coffee and cold drinks will be provided to help you stay awake during this very important briefing!

Kick-off (June 23rd): The starting line will be held at Wolf’s Run precisely at 6:00 a.m. on June the 23rd.  Riders can stage their bikes there during the overnight hours and security will be provided so you can rest easy knowing that your scoot will still be there in the morning.

The convenience store at Wolf’s Run will be open at 5:00 a.m. for Challengers and anyone that would like to come out and see them off.  Everyone is welcome to join us at the start line to send Challengers on their way as they embark on a life changing ride through Canada and America!

Tracking, Route and Finish Line: Once again, families and supporters will be able to track your progress and locate you in the field of competitors through GPS tracking.  US Fleet Tracking will provide the only authorized asset tracking device for Challengers that are riding for the prizes and recognition.  If you don't already have a tracker from a previous Challenge, you should obtain your tracker now by calling USFT at 405/726-9900.  Please be sure to provide them with a picture of you or your bike as well as a bit of information about yourself so that folks at home can learn a little more about our Hoka Hey Challengers as they track your during the event!  Tracking will go live on your website (www.hokaheychallenge.com) on the 19th of June so tell your family and friends how they can check on your progress as you travel along the route!

If you intend to compete for prizes and recognition, you will have to have your US Fleet Tracking device installed and operational when you depart on Sunday morning.  US Fleet Tracking will not have a representative on site this year so any one that needs to install or troubleshoot their tracker, we recommend you call Gowanda Harley-Davidson (716-532-4584) to schedule an appointment.

Finally, riders will need to be able to receive text messages from the Hoka Hey Organization while out on the road.  To subscribe, please text “HOKAHEY” to 60259.  (If you are already signed up and receiving text messages from us, you need not repeat the process now).

Finish Line: For any one that comes in a bit early but just can't seem to get enough riding time...  the good times will be rolling all week long.  Starting on July 1st and running up to the day of the party!

• July 1st: Rest Day - All You Can Eat Crab Legs @ Cabana Sams
• July 2nd: Hoka Hey Cultural Ride through the Allegheny and Cattaraugus Territories.  Riders will tour the Seneca Nation Oil Springs Reservation where the 1st oil was discovered in the U.S. Tour the Seneca Museum, the Seneca Casino, and tour the City of Slamanca (the only city in the U.S. located on Native territory).  From there, they will tour the Cattaraugus Community Center, the Seneca Nation Beach, and Snows Landing.  In addition they will view the cigarette factories, library, the Wm Seneca Bldg., and the Bingo Hall.  This ride is expected to be approximately 150 miles long.
• July 3rd:  Hoka Hey Cultural Ride to the Tonawanda Seneca Nation Territory in Basom, NY to visit various shops.  On the Tuscarora Indian Reservation, riders will visit various shops, go to the Outlet Mall, Niagara Falls, with the final stop at Seneca Niagara Casino.  This ride is expected to be approximately 150 miles long.
• July 4th:  Gowanda Harley-Davidson Sponsored Ride.
• July 5th: Gowanda Harley-Davidson Ride to Rodeo in Ellicottville.

As always, the finish line will be open as long as we have riders on the road - BUT - Challengers will want to try to make it back in time for the End of the Road / Wolf's Run 25th Anniversary party which starts @ noon on the 6th of July!!  Hosted by Wolf's Run Transportation, you know there will be plenty of food and live entertainment to make this one of the most memorable experiences of your life!  You won't want to miss it!!

Hoka Hey!

 Bring your friends and share in the glory!

There is still time to get signed up!!

We would love to see more riders at the starting line on June 23^rd so tell your friends & family to contact us now to register for the event that continues to change lives & shape ideas!

 APPLY NOW!

Are you prepared to lose yourself in order to find yourself?

Are you at peace within?

Or are you still seeking?

*Please read all forms carefully before submitting your application package.

Bring the Tartar Sauce

2013 has been a hell of a year already and if the hurdles that we have had to overcome are any indication of what the event will be like... It promises to be a grueling, arduous and demanding Challenge for everyone involved!!

As you may have seen on our Facebook page, Jim's grandfather (Chief Oliver Red Cloud) took ill in the beginning of January and has remained in the hospital ever since as he continues to fight for his life. The trip from Pine Ridge to Rapid City to visit him has kept family members on the road and in hotels for weeks and his absence has taken a toll on everyone. All that anybody can do now is wait, pray and hope.  

I find it a touch ironic that this came on the heels of my last blog post where I lauded the Chief for his tenacity and perseverance.  But, as one of our Challengers said... "It is not in his DNA to give up with out a fight."  The old man continues to amaze and inspire me.  He continues to make me think... 

I was corresponding with one of our riders about some adversity that he has faced recently and when the conversation turned to the future (whether he will be working in a month from now much less whether he will be able to participate in the Hoka Hey Challenge this summer), he said "If it is meant to be - it will be". Now... I've heard this comment at various times throughout my life and, with certain exceptions such as the loss of a loved one or losing your job when the company you work for falls off of the fiscal cliff; the concept doesn't always sit well with me. For my own part, I believe in self-fulfilling prophesy, I believe you get what you expect, I believe it pays to be optimistic and I believe that if you want something badly enough nothing is going to stop you.

This is not to say that I think we have complete control over our lives or that attitude is absolute. I am enough of a realist to question the likelihood that my thoughts will affect much of anything that occurs outside of my own head. (Certainly I won't go so far as to think that an envelope from Black Hills Power Company will contain anything except a bill - no matter how much I wish it were a check.) But, I do know that when things are going well and I am feeling up, not only am I a whole lot easier to get along with but I think more clearly, I am more confident, and I am more productive; which in turn makes me more confident, which makes me more productive which makes me a whole lot easier to get along with. And so it goes.

   

To quote the writer Charles R. Swindoll "I believe the single most significant decision I can make on a day-to-day basis is my choice of attitude. It is more important than my past, my education, my bankroll, my successes or failures, fame or pain, what other people think of me or say about me, my circumstances, or my position. Attitude keeps me going or cripples my progress. It alone fuels my fire or assaults my hope. When my attitudes are right, there is no barrier too high, no valley too deep, no dream too extreme, no challenge too great for me."

Hoka Hey!

When facing a difficult task, act as though it is impossible to fail. 
If you're going after Moby Dick, take along the tartar sauce!  

The Complete Life's Little Instruction Book by H. Jackson Brown Jr.

New Year's Resolution

All, 

As I sit here working on a Hoka Hey video and trying to capture the essence of Auld Lang Syne, I reflect on all that has taken place since we started the Hoka Hey Challenge and wanted to take a moment to share apologies and appreciation.

First of all, I admit that I've been feeling a bit sorry for myself lately and for that I apologize. The intervening years since our inaugural event have been difficult - starting with the haters and nay-sayers, ranging through a family catastrophes & law suits and now peaking with delays on the final production. But, feeling sorry for myself and allowing that to get in the way of our mission is unacceptable. 

It was on Christmas evening, as we celebrated the holiday at the Chief's house that it really struck me. There were close to 50 people crammed in the front room and kitchen at Grandpa's house and the excitement grew as the "Committee" shouted out names and passed out packages. The Chief had had a close call on an icy road recently and it was obvious that he was glad to be alive and grateful to share the holiday with family. It was marvelous to see that 94 year old man glow with childlike anticipation as the Christmas tradition was enacted once again. And, like a smack upside the head, it hit me... "What do I have to feel bad about!?!"

Sure there have been a series of disappointments and set backs in recent years but, when I stop to realize that Chief Oliver Red Cloud has been banging his head against the proverbial wall for 75 years or more, my sense of "Oh poor me" is pretty darned embarrassing. I won't say that the Chief has never become discouraged or asked "Why do I bother?" But, if he has, he hasn't maintained the mindset or let it get the best of him and I can only hope to learn from his example of perseverance, tenacity and resolve.

The best gift I received this year was a beautiful crochet Hoka Hey afghan from one of our riders and his wife and; while it is a wonderful gift, it really means so much more to me. This afghan, made with such skill and thoughtfulness, has served to remind me once again that we are not in this thing alone. There are a lot of people out there that really believe in the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge. They believe in what we are trying to accomplish and for that I am grateful. 

I sometimes need to remind myself that nothing that's worth having in this world comes easily. The things that we put our greatest efforts in to are the things that will matter most to us at the end of our lifetime because when you work hard for something you will value it far more than if it has just been handed to you. Certainly I recognize that it's nice to be blessed and to receive blessings but, for the New Year; I resolve to remember that if I stay focused, continue to work hard, be humble and remain dedicated to the cause; I will not only be a better person for it but will be less likely to take those blessings for granted.

"But nothing worth having comes without some kind of fight --
Got to kick at the darkness 'til it bleeds daylight."

         From "Lover's in a Dangerous Time"
         ~Bruce Cockburn

Thank you so much to all who believe in the Hoka Hey Challenge. I consider you all to be blessings in my life. And, especially you David (Rider # 91) & Lois Lutes for your kindness and for getting me back on track. Lois - I will enjoy and remark at the skill that went in to that afghan for the rest of my life!

Happy New Year Everybody.  I hope you enjoy the short video I made in honor of you and in celebration of all things worth fighting for!

A Very Hoka Hey New Year

   

   

    

Don't forget that only the riders from 2010 will automatically  be able to keep their rider number no matter when they sign up to participate.  The deadline for riders from 2011 & 2012 to be assured of keeping their rider number has been pushed back to the first of the year.  But the new deadline will be here before you know it so be sure to get your applications in now!!   

  

Bring your friends and share in the glory!  

Any one that signs up 10 riders will  

Ride for FREE!! 

We would love to see you all at the starting line in June 2013!!!

There is LESS THAN 6 MONTHS to gear up so contact us now to register for the event that continues to change lives & shape ideas!  

Are you prepared to lose yourself in order to find yourself?  

Are you at peace within?  

Or are you still seeking!?!

 

 *Please read all forms carefully before submitting your application package.

   

We look forward to hearing from you and hope to see you in the wind!

Sincerely,

  

Beth Durham

Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge   

Director of Operations

Phone #: 605-890-0386

Email: beth.durham@hokaheychallenge.com

   

       

Important Measures to Take Before Your Long Distance Ride

Long distance riding requires far more planning and preparation than its car trip equivalent. For riders who compete in endurance riding events, the time and preparation each event takes is second nature. However, for the younger riders who are new to the experience, the daunting concept of riding thousands of miles on our beloved bikes and all the planning can be more than overwhelming. Though the ride welcomes a sense of freedom and limitless possibilities, a little forethought and preparations is an absolute necessity for endurance rides. Before you hit the open road to follow those yellow lined highways, consider these important measures for safety, wellbeing, and good riding.

Carefully Inspect Your Bike

Your bike acts as your legs—obviously it's essential that you carefully inspect and doctor your motorcycle prior to your trip. Motorcycle maintenance is absolutely vital to your success and safety on the road. While a detailed inspection by a professional is definitely needed, the most efficient way to inspect your bike on your own before traveling is the T-CLOCS approach. T-CLOCS is an acronym for Tires, Controls, Lights, Oils and Fluids, Chassis, and Stands. 

These are the fundamental elements of your bike that you should look at carefully before you embark on any long distance ride. Make sure that both tires are properly inflated. Be sure to check the air pressure of your tires with the pressure gauge that you will take with you on your ride. Make sure all your cables and controls are intact and working correctly. Check your headlights, turn signals, and brake lights. Make sure everything from your engine oil and coolant to you brake fluid are in place. Look at the frame, suspension, chain, and fasteners to make sure they are all secure and intact. As the final step make sure that the center stand and/or side stand isn't cracked or damaged. Check the springs to ensure that they properly hold the assembly away from the pavement when stowed. T-CLOCS is your quick reference for bike inspection, but be sure you see a professional too.

Packing Necessities

Packing for a long distance motorcycle ride can be a challenging thing. It's important that you find a comfortable balance between bringing enough items to ensure comfort on your trip and not overloading your ride with unnecessary weight. Once you've mapped out your ride, you should look at things like weather forecasts and environmental factors. When packing clothes, it can be wise to pack several light weight thin items that you can layer. It's much better to have to stop to adjust your layers and shed some articles than to shiver or sweat your way through a long ride. After all, long rides like this are all about enjoying the experience and the road. As far as food and drink goes, this can be challenging. This is where bulkiness comes in and packing can be a challenge. Think about energy bars, trail mix, and water. You want food items that pack in all the necessities in one small package. Water is obviously the most important thing. Be sure that you have enough water packed to hold you over on long stretches of road that might not have a gas station or store. 

Review Your Insurance Policies

Part of planning for a long distance competition or just ride is very much about forethought and preparedness. Before your ride, look through your motorcycle insurance policy and make sure that you have all the protection you'll need. Long distance riding just opens up that much more time and opportunity for problems. Preparing for the worst is (sadly) the best option. Consider policy options that you might want to add onto your basic liability plan, so that you are fully protected. Things like custom parts and equipment coverage, roadside assistance, medical payment coverage, uninsured motorist coverage, and many others may be very worthwhile for endurance riders.

Stacy Holmes is a blogger and freelance writer for www.motorcycleinsurance.com. She enjoys writing and researching everything to do with motorcycles and automotive trends. Stacy is particularly interested in engaging her readers in the often mundane world of motorcycle insurance and money-saving tactics. You can reach her in the comments below.

Red Cloud Humanitarian Fund

The organizers of the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge are proud to announce that we have teamed up with the Red Cloud Humanitarian Fund in a commitment to help provide for the fundamentals to health and well-being for Indian people.
 

The Red Cloud Humanitarian Fund was organized in December 2004 as an unincorporated association in order to raise funds for meeting the basic needs of the residents and citizens of the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota.  

Poverty and a lack of economic opportunity have created deplorable conditions for the residents of the more remote Indian reservations like Pine Ridge where many residents live in substandard housing which lack the life sustaining resources that most of us take for granted.  The mission of the Red Cloud Humanitarian Fund is to raise funds for the provision of running water, adequate plumbing, food, and shelter for these people.  

It is a fitting match because, the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge intends to be a vehicle that brings awareness to the deplorable conditions found on Pine Ridge and other of the Nation’s poorer Indian reservations.  To help accomplish this goal, a feature length documentary is being created by Oscar nominated producer David Roma. 

The documentary film is based on the 2011 Challenge and will follow in the footsteps of David Roma’s previous documentaries in that it will be both entertaining and socially informative. The social cause at hand of course is the current situation of Native Americans, specifically those of the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, whose struggle has been ongoing for hundreds of years with no clear remedy in sight. With some of the worst levels of poverty, unemployment, infant mortality rates, teen suicides, adult diabetes, cervical cancer and overall life expectancy in the world, Pine Ridge is often seen as ground zero for Native causes. The film weaves together the trials and tribulations of the Hoka Hey Challengers with those of the Native Americans; who struggle everyday just to survive.

Beyond the film however, several thousands of dollars were raised for the Red Cloud Humanitarian Fund through the efforts of our Hoka Hey participants and supporters during the 2012 Challenge.  In fact, special appreciation goes out to Rob Carlo, Tim Menzie, Dominick Zappolla and Matt Klebe (Kelley Babbin) for selflessly returning their prize award checks to the event as a contribution to Red Cloud Humanitarian Fund!  

With this kind of support, the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge and the Red Cloud Humanitarian Fund can promote pride and dignity to the community by improving living conditions and restoring a sense of comfort and well being through the development of life sustaining resources such as the development of water, housing, food, shelter and other basic life resource necessities on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation and elsewhere. 

Every gift makes a difference.