Watch video here.
October:
After returning home from the Baja Rally, I spent a few weeks with my family before heading back to South Africa for the Cape Roadbook Camp. It was an incredible event, and I want to extend heartfelt thanks to everyone who made it possible:
Berg River Resort, Chris Osche, and the resort’s bar staff for hosting us so graciously. Also Walter Breedt for his unwavering support behind the bar.
Amber Station and Sarel for providing excellent tracking services.
Joey Evans, who gave an inspiring talk and lent his support throughout the event.
Ubuntu Jam and Luzelle for the unforgettable drumming session and amazing live music.
The Bike Shed for their technical and tire support.
Kove SA for providing a bike for me to train on during my time in South Africa and Namibia.
I also picked up my “Just Be Lekker” T-shirts while in South Africa. Have you got yours yet? Get it here.
November:
Right after the Cape Roadbook Camp, I set off for Namibia to train in the dunes. The journey started with some classic Africa border issues—Namibian authorities weren’t keen on letting me in with two bikes. After hours of haggling, phone calls, and plenty of frustration, I finally crossed the border. The trip from Cape Town to Walvis Bay took three days in total.
As always, Namibia provided some excellent training in the dunes. I learned to “read” the dunes and spent five days riding in the world’s finest sand. The food was incredible, and staying with an old school friend in Swakopmund made the experience even more special.
After training, I drove 19 hours non-stop from Walvis Bay to Murraysburg to see my parents. It was worth every minute to reconnect with family. (I had border issues again, but spent less time there)
I then returned to New Hampshire to focus on physical training, work on bike graphics, and spend quality time with my family. Thanksgiving marked the reveal of the Dakar route, and from December onward, it was all systems go for Dakar preparation.
December:
A dream of mine has always been to do a U.S. training tour before Dakar, and December made that dream a reality. My first stop was the Champ Ranch in Apple Valley, California, where my good friend Colton Udall helped me refine my riding technique, particularly standing while riding.
Next, I headed to El Paso to ride with my mentor and Rally Comp inventor, Mike Johnson. We spent three grueling but rewarding days riding in and around El Paso with friends, fine-tuning every detail for Dakar.
Finally, I visited Skool of Moto in Colorado. This last leg was about grounding myself mentally and physically. I worked on my technique, spent time with the Kove 450, and even did some cold-weather riding to prepare for all conditions.
The final two weeks before Dakar and Christmas were spent on the East Coast with my family. These weeks were a whirlwind of paperwork, logistics, packing, visas, and insurance. With only my Saudi visa outstanding, I can now confidently say: I am ready to go.
Looking back, it’s incredible to think a year has passed since the first Decoding Dakar episode. This journey has taught me the immense value of human connection. I’ve come to cherish the relationships and friendships that rally and adventure riding have brought into my life.
To everyone who has helped, contributed, advised, donated, or supported me in any way—thank you. Your support means the world to me, and I’m excited to share Dakar 2025 with all of you.
Wishing you a merry and blessed festive season and all the best for 2025!
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