Welcome to the Decoding Dakar newsletter! If you're just joining us, this series chronicles my journey toward competing in the legendary Dakar Rally in 2025. We started back in January with Episode 1, where I announced my decision to take on Dakar, and we've been building momentum ever since. In Episode 4, we wrapped things up at the Boreal Royale in Canada, but today, I’m bringing you behind the scenes of my training and preparation for Dakar, as well as some exciting updates from the past few months.
Summer Reflections and Training in the Karoo
After Boreal Royale in Fort McMurray, Canada, I returned to New Hampshire in July for some much-needed family time. One of the highlights of my summer is always the annual horse camp, where I teach kids how to ride horses. It’s a huge part of my life and gives me the perfect opportunity to reconnect with family and community before diving back into rally mode.
In late June, my daughter and I traveled to South Africa for some intense rally training with friends. A special shout-out goes to Juan, Daniel and Jean for being incredible training partners. Together, we covered over 3,000 kilometers in a week—fast, wide-open roads, all in the dead of winter in South Africa's Karoo region. Despite the biting cold and wet conditions, it was a fantastic experience, both physically and mentally.
A Moment of Triumph: Dakar Acceptance
Amidst all the training, the biggest news hit—I received my official acceptance for Dakar 2025! Becoming one of only 130 riders selected worldwide was one of the most emotional and proudest moments of my life. It marked a milestone in this incredible journey, and I cannot wait to represent my roots from the Karoo on the Dakar stage.
Baja Rally Shakedown & Pre-Race Preparations
After South Africa, I headed to Baja for the shakedown of the Baja Rally in August. As part of the pre-race preparations, my team and I ran the entire course to ensure safety and logistics were dialed in for the main event. Working alongside the team, we did a dry run of the race, checking roadbooks and identifying any potential bottlenecks. It was an invaluable experience, and I even had a big crash where my airbag vest saved me from a hospital trip—ribs still sore but no lasting damage!
In September, I found myself back in Colorado for the Skool of Moto Rodeo, an event packed with fun, fireside chats, and incredible riding. Thanks to Chris Vestal from MotoMinded for helping me push through some tough training days and keeping the pace high with roadbook challenges. September also brought exciting developments, like scoping out a potential new adventure bike event for next year—stay tuned for more on that!
Gearing Up for Dakar: Logistics, Hydration & Strength Training
As of now, the countdown to Dakar is in full swing. I’m deep into logistics—finalizing flights, insurance, and securing gear. My main focus right now is ensuring that everything I’ll use for Dakar is tested and ready. From hydration to helmets, boots, and fueling strategies, it’s all about preparation. I’ve partnered with Steve from Thrash Moto, who has developed a strength training program that fits my nomadic schedule—bodyweight exercises that I can do anywhere. Big thanks to Steve for keeping me in peak shape!
Upcoming Cape Roadbook Camp & Namibia Training
Next on the horizon is the Cape Roadbook Camp at the end of October, which will be my only fundraising event in South Africa. From there, I’ll be heading up to Namibia for a week of intense training in the dunes. Every Dakar rider emphasizes how critical dunes and sand riding are, and I’ll be spending at least a week mastering that terrain.
Once I return to the U.S., I’ll squeeze in some final family time before embarking on my last pre-Dakar training tour in December—expect videos, tips, and more insights from that.
Final Words: Thank You!
I’m incredibly grateful for the outpouring of support I’ve received on this journey. Whether it’s friends riding with me in South Africa, sponsors stepping up, or the amazing team at the Baja Rally, in particular Andy "Gasman", putting together an auction to support my Dakar dream—every bit helps. A special shout-out to Mike from Rally Comp for purchasing a painting at the auction, which will now become part of Dakar history as it’s passed down every year.
Massive thanks to:
Juan and Daniel Coetzee as well as Jean Lombard for helping me train in July.
Donni and Corbin at Skool of Moto for always being open to let me stay over, giving my bike a place to stay, and always making sure everybody has a fun time.
Chris Vestal from Moto Minded for giving me a place to stay and for helping me train, as well as organizing some awesome roadbooks.
Ned Seusse and DoubleTake Mirror for you help, support and sponsorship.
Steve Mc from Thrash Moto Co for getting me into proper shape.
Kove USA and Kove SA for providing me with a training bike.
For those following along, I invite you to check out the Decoding Dakar Challenge fun way to get involved, with prizes and opportunities to support my journey.
As we head into the final stretch before Dakar, I’ll continue to share updates and insights. Keep an eye out for Episode 6, and in the meantime, visit DecodingDakar.com to see how you can support this adventure. Your encouragement means the world to me.
Stay tuned, ride safe, and remember— just be lekker!
Support options - https://www.decodingdakar.com/
Decoding Dakar Shop - https://decodingdakar.myshopify.com/
Comments