Rally for Rangers is a project of Mongol Ecology Center (MEC), a 501(c)3 non- governmental organization based in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia and Tucson, Arizona.
HOW CAN A MOTORCYCLE SAVE A SNOW LEOPARD?
Rally for Rangers connects motorcycle enthusiasts passionate about discovering and protecting the world's special places with park rangers dedicated to preserving natural and cultural heritage. Every year, riders donate their bikes directly to rangers after completing a unique adventure.
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Mission
Our mission is to protect the world’s special places by empowering rangers around the world with new motorcycles and equipment.
Story
A Simple Gesture
In 2013, former U.S. National Park Ranger Robert “Mac” McIntosh was volunteering with the Mongol Ecology Center assisting managers at Lake Hovsgol National Park near the Russian border with Mongolia. As they reviewed planning documents with the parks chief ranger Enkhtaivan a call came in – there was an illegal campsite discovered on park lands nearby. Mac watched helplessly as the chief ranger hopped on his motorcycle only to have it immediately break down. He could not do his job. This happened routinely, and Mac learned rangers across the country could not pursue or keep up with illegal poachers, miners, campers and other spoilers of the parks. He had seen enough. Mac told Wesley Thornberry, co-founder of Rally for Rangers, and Ono Batkhuu, founder of Mongol Ecology Center, that he would take it upon himself to buy a new motorcycle, ride it across Mongolia, and personally deliver it so Enkhtaivan could successfully and safely perform his job. Upon returning to the States, Wesley related this story to friends and asked “Who’s in?” Rally for Rangers was born.
A Growing Movement
The first rally in 2014 was truly an experiment. The outcome unpredictable. Find 15 riders to buy 15 motorcycles and ride them over 1,000 miles across the roadless northern steppe of Mongolia, all to give them away to park rangers in need. It had never been done. Before the first day off road was done, one rider was out with a broken collar bone. Two days later two more riders out. The sturdy Russian military-grade support truck quickly filling with bikes without a rider. Then came the rain, the mud, the sand. When the last mile was turned, just six of the original 15 riders were still astride their bike. But all 15 bikes were delivered, 15 rangers given a new lease on protecting their vast and sacred landscape. The inspiration of the effort was contagious, we had to keep doing this. And so we did.
By the end of 2021 Rally for Rangers will have delivered 150 new motorcycles to 13 parks in four countries – Mongolia, Argentina, Chile, and Bhutan. Adventurous philanthropists from around the world continue to flock to the movement – Mongolia, Russia, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, U.S.A., Canada, Singapore, Germany, Denmark, Lebanon, and more have represented their cultures in this effort.
Sponsors & Partners
Partners
Media partners
Team
Organizers
Badral Yondon, Executive Director
Wesley Thornberry, Co-Founder
Tom Medema, Co-Founder
Badral
Yondon,
Badral Yondon is the CEO of Mongolia Quest and oversees the company’s operations. His career in tourism began while he was a university student working as a porter at a hotel in Ulaanbaatar during the democratic revolution in 1990. Since then, Badral has emerged as a leader in the tourism industry of Mongolia and is committed to supporting the culture and heritage of his country while also protecting the bio-diversity of its fragile ecosystems. He graduated from the Foreign Language Institute in Ulaanbaatar and the Klessheim Tourism and Hotel Management School in Saltzburg, Austria. As one of the founding members of Mongolia Quest, Badral has explored much of Mongolia’s vast countryside, sharing his knowledge of Mongolia’s unique culture and biodiversity with many hundred visitor over last 25 years. He serves on the board of the Mongol Ecology Center, Mongolian Tourism Association and the Arts Council of Mongolia. Badral speaks fluent Russian and English.
Wesley
Thornberry,
Wesley is a founding member of the Rally for Rangers. Since its inception, as an avid motorcyclist, Wesley spearheaded the Rally for Rangers, raised awareness internationally about the National Parks of Mongolia, and rode in all rallies.
Wesley is the founder of Trend Digital, www.trend-digital.com, which specializes in post-production imaging services for e-commerce clothing and fashion retailers. Wesley is also a photographer, adventurer, and traveler and has documented the tribes of Omo Valley, Ethiopia, to the nomadic shamans of Mongolia. He currently lives in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia.
Tom
Medema,
Tom Medema developed a passion for national parks at a young age on family vacations throughout the American west. This passion turned into a career as a park ranger spanning nearly 30 years. Tom is equally passionate about national parks and public lands around the world and has worked with parks and monuments in South America and Europe as a subject matter expert in the field of interpretation and education. The opportunity to support the protection of natural and cultural heritage of parks and protected areas around the world is an opportunity he is excited and humbled to be a part of.
Tom is a sports and outdoor enthusiast, spending much of his free time enjoying two-wheeled travel by mountain bike, road bike, and motorbike. Over the past 20 years he has owned Harley-Davidson and BMW bikes and is currently riding an F800GS on the back roads and trails of Maryland, Virginia and West Virginia in preparation for the next epic and compelling adventure protecting the worlds special places one motorcycle at a time.
Rallies
Namibia
Namibian Community Rangers
Travel distance: 2000 km
Date: July 3-17
Namibian Community Rangers will use the motorcycles to help prevent poaching of wildlife that leave or live outside the National Parks. The community rangers play an essential role in managing wildlife and community interaction when elephants eat farmers' crops, or lions kill their livestock.
Resource at riskWild animals are disappearing due to poaching and habitat loss across the continent.
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Rallies
Mongolia
National Parks of Southern Mongolia
Travel distance: 1800 km
Date: September 11-23
Rally for Rangers will donate motorcycles to the Southern Mongolian National Parks.
Resource at riskViolations such as manual mineral extraction, illegal hunting, and tree cutting prevail in Ikh Bogd Uul National Park and illegal feldspar digging, heavy vehicle transportation passing through the protection zone, causing a lot of dust, damaging and destroying plant cover in Ikh Gazriin Chuluu.
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Rallies
Mongolia
Ulaan Taiga Strictly Protected Areas
Travel distance: 1760 km
In 2022, we donated another 15 motorcycles to Ulaan Taiga Strictly Protected Areas Administration. The rangers of this administration are in charge of Ulaan Taiga Strictly Protected Area, covering a vast land of 434,900 hectares (over 1 million acres) of the territories of three parks.
Resource at riskIllegal gold and jade mining accounts for the majority of the total violations, and occurs in the protection and tourism areas of the Strictly Protected Area.
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Rallies
Bhutan
National Parks of Bhutan
Travel distance: 1400 km
Bhutan is the first Carbon Negative Country in the world with more than 70% of its territory set aside as national parks. Bikes donated by RFR have been distributed to 3 parks: Jigme Singye Wangchuk, Wangchuk Centenary National and Jomotsangkha Wildlife Sanctuary.
Resource at riskMajor challenges faced by the Forestry Service in Bhutan are development, illegal logging and poaching from within and outside the country.
Rallies
Peru
National Parks of Peru
Travel distance: 1600 km
In association with the National Service of Natural Areas Protected by the State (SERNANP) and Frankfurt Zoological Society of Peru (FZS) the Rally for Rangers has donated 15 Honda XR190L motorcycles to rangers in Peru. The rally has taken us from the coastline of the Pacific Ocean to the Amazonian jungle over the mighty Andes.
Resource at riskKey issues the park service struggles with include poaching, illegal mining and pollution.
Rallies
Mongolia
National Parks of Eastern Mongolia
Travel distance: 1560 km
In 2021, Rally for Rangers donated motorcycles to rangers of National Parks of Eastern Mongolia: Dariganga National Park, Numrug National Park, the Great Gobi National Park.
Resource at riskIllegal collection and hunting of animals for use in medicinal plants occur. Tourists climb Sukhbaatar Peak, the highest point of of Munkh-khairkhan Mountain, with a permit, and unauthorized climbs are made sometimes in Dariganga NP. At Numrug forest fires are often caused by human malpractice. Due to heavy snowfall in winter, patrols and inspections are not possible. The capacity of the Security Administration is insufficient to eliminate the violations due to the frequent violations of illegal gold prospecting and mining by citizens.
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Rallies
Nepal
National Parks of Nepal
Travel distance: 950 km
Partnering with World Wildlife Fund Inc. the Rally for Rangers has donated 15 Yamaha XTZ 125 motorcycles to the Ministry of Forests and Environment of Nepal. Local park rangers work in a wide range of ecological zones including high Himalayas in the north and Tropics in the south. Bikes have been assigned to various parks around the country.
Resource at riskMajor issues in Nepal include deforestation, climate change, energy and species conservation. Many of these issues have been precipitated by rapid industrialization without major environmental regulation.
Rallies
Mongolia
National Parks of Western Mongolia
Travel distance: 1255 km
In 2019, Rally for Rangers donated motorcycles to rangers of National Parks of Western Mongolia: Munkh-Khairkhan National Park and Khar-Us Lake National Park.
Resource at riskAt Khar Us Lake extremely rare snow leopards, crested pelicans, and endangered species of saiga antelope are declining due to human malpractice. Apart from illegal fishing, fish populations are declining due to global warming. Illegal hunting of marmots is the most common in the Munkh-Khairkhan NP.
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Rallies
Argentina
Patagonia Parks
Travel distance: 1720 km
Nahuel Huapi National Park is the oldest national park in Argentina, established in 1934. It surrounds Nahuel Huapi Lake in the foothills of the Patagonian Andes. The largest of the national parks in the region, it has an area of 7,050 km2 (2,720 sq mi).
Resource at riskPatagonia has suffered its share of ecological abuse: intensive sheep ranching on sandy, arid soils has resulted in widespread desertification.
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Rallies
Mongolia
Altai Tavan Bogd National Park
Travel distance: 1470 km
The Altai Tavan Bogd National Park, encompasses 630 thousand hectares (1.6 million acres) and is home to the highest mountain peak of Mongolia, the snowcapped Khuiten Mountain at 4374m (14201 feet), three large freshwater lakes, 34 glaciers and several waterfalls.
Resource at riskForest violations account for the majority of the total violations. The herds people who live in the area mostly tend to violate the laws to prepare iodine and firewood usage.
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Rallies
Mongolia
Otgontenger Protected Areas
Travel distance: 1350 km
Located in Zavkhan province in western Mongolia, Otgontenger National Park preserves Otgontenger, the sacred mountain that Mongolians have worshiped since 1818. The Mount Otgontenger rises 4,021 meters or some 13,000 feet above sea level.
Resource at riskThe most common violations in the park include illegal logging, poaching of animals (marmots, fishing) and plants (Saussurea involucrata). Moreover, visitor littering is a problem.
Rallies
Mongolia
Ulaan Taiga Strictly Protected Areas
Travel distance: 1021 km
The rangers of this administration are in charge of Ulaan Taiga Strictly Protected Area covers a vast land of 434,900 hectares (over 1 million acres) of the territories of three parks - the Ulaan Taiga Strictly Protected Areas, the Khoridol Saridag Strictly Protected Areas and the Tengis Shishged National Park.
Resource at riskIllegal gold and jade mining accounts for the majority of the total violations, and occurs in the protection and tourism areas of the Strictly Protected Area.
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Rallies
Mongolia
Lake Khuvsgul National Park
Travel distance: 1390 km
In 2014, we donated 15 motorcycles to rangers of the Lake Khuvsgul National Park where the Rally for Rangers was born. The park was established in 1992 and expanded in 2011. Mongolians also call Lake Khuvsgul, the Mother Sea, for it contains 70% of Mongolia’s (and 1% of the Earth’s) freshwater.
Resource at riskUnsustainable development, irresponsible decision-making and global climate change are causing immediate threats to the Lake and its ecosystem’s future.
Wild animals are disappearing due to poaching and habitat loss across the continent. For more information about community efforts to protect wildlife, please visit our partner organization's, Integrated Rural Development and Nature Conservation, website at irdnc.org.na.
In recent years in Ikh Gazriin Chuluu NP, there have been a lot of violations occur such as illegal feldspar digging, heavy vehicle transportation passing through the protection zone, causing a lot of dust, damaging and destroying plant cover, repelling and encroaching on wild animals, and shrinking the habitat. Violations such as manual mineral extraction, illegal hunting, and tree cutting prevail in Ikh Bogd Uul National Park.
Illegal gold and jade mining accounts for the majority of the total violations, and occurs in the protection and tourism areas of the Strictly Protected Area. Manual gold mining takes place frequently in SPAs, and appropriate measures are taken in each case by local authorities.
Dariganga National Park
The majority of the total violations are trees, willows, bushes and shrubs used for fuel taken from specially protected areas. Illegal hunting of marmosets, antelopes, and wolves is common in this area. People's traffic increases after the Lunar New Year holiday due to the popular belief among Mongolians that a man's spirit shall be restored if the man goes to Shiliin Bogd Mountain.
Numrug Strictly Protected Area
According to the flora study of the Institute of Botany In 1997, 493 species of tubular plants of 69 genera were recorded in Numrug SPA. Forest fires are often caused by human malpractice. Due to heavy snowfall in winter, patrols and inspections are not possible.
The Great Gobi B Strictly Protected Area /GGSPA/
In 1975, by Resolution No. 84 of the National People’s Congress of the People's Republic of China, GGSPA was established with two main parts: "A" and "B". And it was established with the purpose of conserving the northern part of the Great Desert of Central Asia and the desert ecosystem, and to protect wild animals such as the flat, mazaalai, horse, hulan, black-tailed gazelle, leopard, lynx, lynx, ibex, ibex, which are endangered not only in Mongolia but also in the world. The capacity of the Security Administration is insufficient to eliminate the violations due to the frequent violations of illegal gold prospecting and mining by citizens.
The majority of the total violations are trees, willows, bushes and shrubs used for fuel taken from specially protected areas. Illegal hunting of marmosets, antelopes, and wolves is common in this area. People's traffic increases after the Lunar New Year holiday due to the popular belief among Mongolians that a man's spirit shall be restored if the man goes to Shiliin Bogd Mountain.
Numrug Strictly Protected Area
According to the flora study of the Institute of Botany In 1997, 493 species of tubular plants of 69 genera were recorded in Numrug SPA. Forest fires are often caused by human malpractice. Due to heavy snowfall in winter, patrols and inspections are not possible.
The Great Gobi B Strictly Protected Area /GGSPA/
In 1975, by Resolution No. 84 of the National People’s Congress of the People's Republic of China, GGSPA was established with two main parts: "A" and "B". And it was established with the purpose of conserving the northern part of the Great Desert of Central Asia and the desert ecosystem, and to protect wild animals such as the flat, mazaalai, horse, hulan, black-tailed gazelle, leopard, lynx, lynx, ibex, ibex, which are endangered not only in Mongolia but also in the world. The capacity of the Security Administration is insufficient to eliminate the violations due to the frequent violations of illegal gold prospecting and mining by citizens.
Khar Us Lake National Park
It has a total area of 850,272 hectares, including Jargalant Khairkhan Mountain, one of the major parts of the Mongol Altai Mountains, and the large lakes of the Great Lakes Depression, namely Khar Us, Khar, and Durgan Lakes. It is 115 km from north to south, 137 km from west to east, and the total length of the border is 509.2 km. The National Park is biodiversity-rich and has extremely rare snow leopards, crested pelicans, and endangered species of saiga antelope are declining due to human malpractice. Apart from illegal fishing, fish populations are declining due to global warming.
Munkh-Khairkhan National Park
Munkh-Khairkhan National Park is very rich in flora and fauna. For example, rare mammals such as argali, ibex, snow leopard, Asian beaver, and red deer, as well as rare plants include saffron, golden onion, and sheep juniper. Illegal collection and hunting of animals for use in medicinal plants occur. Tourists climb Sukhbaatar Peak, the highest point of of Munkh-khairkhan Mountain, with a permit, and unauthorized climbs are made sometimes. Also, the illegal hunting of marmots is the most common in the region. The beautiful area of Uench Gorge is full of natural resources and wildlife, so local people engage in illegal activities such as illegal mineral exploration and poaching.
It has a total area of 850,272 hectares, including Jargalant Khairkhan Mountain, one of the major parts of the Mongol Altai Mountains, and the large lakes of the Great Lakes Depression, namely Khar Us, Khar, and Durgan Lakes. It is 115 km from north to south, 137 km from west to east, and the total length of the border is 509.2 km. The National Park is biodiversity-rich and has extremely rare snow leopards, crested pelicans, and endangered species of saiga antelope are declining due to human malpractice. Apart from illegal fishing, fish populations are declining due to global warming.
Munkh-Khairkhan National Park
Munkh-Khairkhan National Park is very rich in flora and fauna. For example, rare mammals such as argali, ibex, snow leopard, Asian beaver, and red deer, as well as rare plants include saffron, golden onion, and sheep juniper. Illegal collection and hunting of animals for use in medicinal plants occur. Tourists climb Sukhbaatar Peak, the highest point of of Munkh-khairkhan Mountain, with a permit, and unauthorized climbs are made sometimes. Also, the illegal hunting of marmots is the most common in the region. The beautiful area of Uench Gorge is full of natural resources and wildlife, so local people engage in illegal activities such as illegal mineral exploration and poaching.
Patagonia has suffered its share of ecological abuse: intensive sheep ranching on sandy, arid soils has resulted in widespread desertification.
In the transition from sheep ranch to national park, Conservación Patagónica aimed to reverse these damages, restore productive habitat, and create a model of ecosystem restoration for Patagonia. The grasslands recovery program, launched in 2004, began with removing almost all livestock.
In the transition from sheep ranch to national park, Conservación Patagónica aimed to reverse these damages, restore productive habitat, and create a model of ecosystem restoration for Patagonia. The grasslands recovery program, launched in 2004, began with removing almost all livestock.
Forest violations account for the majority of the total violations. The herds people who live in the area mostly tend to violate the laws to prepare iodine and firewood usage.
From 2014 to 2015, the activities of illegally harvesting wood for usage from the forest, building houses and fences, selling it to others, and preparing firewood without permission were completely stopped. But in recent years, illegal activities tend to rise by the local people.
From 2014 to 2015, the activities of illegally harvesting wood for usage from the forest, building houses and fences, selling it to others, and preparing firewood without permission were completely stopped. But in recent years, illegal activities tend to rise by the local people.
Illegal gold and jade mining accounts for the majority of the total violations, and occurs in the protection and tourism areas of the Strictly Protected Area. Manual gold mining takes place frequently in SPAs, and appropriate measures are taken in each case by local authorities.
Namibian Community Rangers will use the motorcycles to help prevent poaching of wildlife that leave or live outside the National Parks. The community rangers play an essential role in managing wildlife and community interaction when elephants eat farmers' crops, or lions kill their livestock.
For more information about community efforts to protect wildlife, please visit our partner organization's, Integrated Rural Development and Nature Conservation, website at irdnc.org.na.
For more information about community efforts to protect wildlife, please visit our partner organization's, Integrated Rural Development and Nature Conservation, website at irdnc.org.na.
Ikh Gazriin Chuluu National Park
Ikh Gazriin Chuluu is the largest part of the granite area of Mongolia. Located in Govi-Ugtaal and Bayanjargalan soum of Dundgovi province, Ikh Gazriin Chuluu is a beautiful rock formation in the gobi desert. There are over 40 caves in the area and they are easy to access and close to each other, making it ideal for hiking. One of the caves named Olgii, according to local people used to be full of mysterious books and scriptures. The highest point of Ikh Gazriin Chuluu is Yurlug mountain with 1706 meters height. Around 30 types of medicinal herbs like roseroot, silverweed and locoweed grows here, meanwhile over 20 species including whiskered bat and common bat inhabits Ikh Gazriin Chuluu.
Tost Tosonbumba Nature Reserve
In 2010 Tost Tosonbumba was established as a local protected area, which then had 37 mining licenses. Under local protection rules it was possible to revoke some licenses and prevent others being issued. Mining operations fragment habitats and drive nomadic communities into snow cat territory, resulting in conflict.
Ikh Bogd Uul National Park
Ikh Bogd Uul NP is centered on Ikh Bogd ("Great Saint"), the highest mountain in the Altai-Gobi Mountains, a southeastern spur range of the Altai. The middle and high elevations feature alpine meadows and montane steppe. The range, with semi-arid deserts to the north and south, supports rare species, such as the near-threatened argali (Ovis ammon) and Pallas's cat
Ikh Gazriin Chuluu is the largest part of the granite area of Mongolia. Located in Govi-Ugtaal and Bayanjargalan soum of Dundgovi province, Ikh Gazriin Chuluu is a beautiful rock formation in the gobi desert. There are over 40 caves in the area and they are easy to access and close to each other, making it ideal for hiking. One of the caves named Olgii, according to local people used to be full of mysterious books and scriptures. The highest point of Ikh Gazriin Chuluu is Yurlug mountain with 1706 meters height. Around 30 types of medicinal herbs like roseroot, silverweed and locoweed grows here, meanwhile over 20 species including whiskered bat and common bat inhabits Ikh Gazriin Chuluu.
Tost Tosonbumba Nature Reserve
In 2010 Tost Tosonbumba was established as a local protected area, which then had 37 mining licenses. Under local protection rules it was possible to revoke some licenses and prevent others being issued. Mining operations fragment habitats and drive nomadic communities into snow cat territory, resulting in conflict.
Ikh Bogd Uul National Park
Ikh Bogd Uul NP is centered on Ikh Bogd ("Great Saint"), the highest mountain in the Altai-Gobi Mountains, a southeastern spur range of the Altai. The middle and high elevations feature alpine meadows and montane steppe. The range, with semi-arid deserts to the north and south, supports rare species, such as the near-threatened argali (Ovis ammon) and Pallas's cat
Ulaan Taiga Strictly Protected Area covers a vast land of 434,900 hectares (over 1 million acres) of the territories of three parks - the Ulaan Taiga Strictly Protected Areas, the Khoridol Saridag Strictly Protected Areas and the Tengis Shishged National Park.
Ulaan Taiga Strictly Protected Area
Established in 2003 and later expanded in 2011, Ulaan Taiga Strictly Protected Area covers a vast land of 434,900 hectares (over 1 million acres). Five rivers have their headwaters in remote regions of Ulaan Taiga. The Hug, Bos, Muntarag, Guna, and Delger Murun are part of the Yenisei watershed, which drains into the Arctic Ocean. More than 300 lakes adorn the little-explored backcountry of Ulaan Taiga.
Tengis Shishged National Park
With an area of 869,070 hectares (2.15 million acres), Tengis-Shishged National Park was established in 2011. Located in Tsagaan Nuur soum this park is renowned for its community of Dukha reindeer herders. The Dukha continue to practice shamanic traditions that revere mountains and the natural world. Tengis-Shishged is one of the few places in the world where this ancient form of reindeer pastoralism and religion survive.
Horidol Saridag Strictly Protected Area
Horidol Saridag Strictly Protected Area was established in 1997 and expanded in 2008. With an area of 226,000 hectares (about 560 thousand acres), Horidol Saridag hosts Mongolia’s northernmost population of Argali sheep, as well as numerous other wildlife species including elk, moose, bear, and wolverine. The tallest peak in the range is the distinctive Delger Khan, visible from Ulaan Uul Soum.
Ulaan Taiga Strictly Protected Area
Established in 2003 and later expanded in 2011, Ulaan Taiga Strictly Protected Area covers a vast land of 434,900 hectares (over 1 million acres). Five rivers have their headwaters in remote regions of Ulaan Taiga. The Hug, Bos, Muntarag, Guna, and Delger Murun are part of the Yenisei watershed, which drains into the Arctic Ocean. More than 300 lakes adorn the little-explored backcountry of Ulaan Taiga.
Tengis Shishged National Park
With an area of 869,070 hectares (2.15 million acres), Tengis-Shishged National Park was established in 2011. Located in Tsagaan Nuur soum this park is renowned for its community of Dukha reindeer herders. The Dukha continue to practice shamanic traditions that revere mountains and the natural world. Tengis-Shishged is one of the few places in the world where this ancient form of reindeer pastoralism and religion survive.
Horidol Saridag Strictly Protected Area
Horidol Saridag Strictly Protected Area was established in 1997 and expanded in 2008. With an area of 226,000 hectares (about 560 thousand acres), Horidol Saridag hosts Mongolia’s northernmost population of Argali sheep, as well as numerous other wildlife species including elk, moose, bear, and wolverine. The tallest peak in the range is the distinctive Delger Khan, visible from Ulaan Uul Soum.
Main protected species within the country are Tiger, Elephant, Gaur, Water Buffalo, Golden Langur, Himalayan Black Bear and Snow Leopard. Motor bikes are a fast way to react to illegal activities, delivering public services and can be ridden even on footpath, increasing park rangers’ presence in the area for better protection and for patrolling.
We have ridden through five regions and visited seven national parks: National Reserve of Paracas, National Reserve System of Islands Islets and Guaneras Points, San Fernando National Reserve, Pampa Galeras Bárbara D´Achille National Reserve, National Sanctuary of Ampay, Historic Sanctuary of Machupicchu and Tambopata National Reserve in Madre de Dios.
Dariganga National Park
Dariganga National Park was established in 2005, covering 367,222 hectares (or 907,000 acres) of land in southeastern Mongolia, and patrolled by three full-time and ten seasonal rangers. Mrs. Ariuntsetseg, one of the very few women superintendents in Mongolia’s park system, has been managing the park since 2017. The park is known for Ganga Lake, the only open water pond in the heart of the great Gobi Desert. This lake attracts thousands of migratory birds in the Fall and famous for the swan gatherings, with several hundred congregating at a time.
The vast grasslands of Dariganga are speckled with volcanic craters, small lakes, and dunes, the sum of which makes the area one of the most scenic in eastern Mongolia. Before communism, this area was a haven of aristocracy, and its grasslands were the royal grazing grounds of horses belonging to the emperor in Beijing. Silversmiths and blacksmiths made their homes here, providing local women with elaborate fine jewelry.
These days, Dariganga is all about sacred mountains, one in town and the other – Shilin Bogd Uul – a short drive away. Tales of “Sain Er” (good man) still live among nomads, and they resonate with English Robin Hood stories. Sain Er were strong men who rebelled against the traditional rule of the rich, stealing from them to give to the poor. Shilin Bogd Mountain is known to be the historical place for Sain Er from around Mongolia to take an oath of staying loyal to their purpose in life.
Numrug National Park
Established in 1995, the Numrug National Park encompasses 582,200 hectares (or 1.44 million acres) of land in the most remote part of Eastern Mongolia. Eastern Mongolia is home to the Dornod steppes – uninhabited wild grasslands, roughly six times the size of Serengeti. It is one of the largest intact grassland ecosystems in the world. It is situated on the Mongolian Plateau with an average altitude of about 800 meters above sea level. The park has 493 different plant species, 251 birds, and 46 species of wild mammals. It’s home to some unique species like eastern moose, Pallas’s cat, Daurian hedgehog, and six species of cranes. Interestingly, freshwater monster fish, Taimen, is also found in the Halkh river due to its remote location.
Despite its significant size, the park is patrolled by five rangers, which means one ranger is responsible for an area of roughly 300,000 acres of land, and they do not have access to reliable transportation.
Dornod is home to over 1 million Mongolian Gazelle, a medium-sized antelope native to the semiarid Central Asian steppes of Mongolia and some parts of Siberia and China. The groups usually consist of 20-30 individuals in the summer and several hundred in the winter. However, herds of up to 30,000 individuals are not unusual.
Not long ago, a Chinese company started exploring oil in the central part of the Dornod steppes, disrupting the ecosystem and causing issues with dust and soil pollution along the transportation routes. Crude oil is being transported in tanker trucks across the Mongolian border.
The Great Gobi B National Park
Founded in 1975, the Great Gobi B National Park encompasses an area equal to 1,835,725 hectares or 4.5 million acres in the southwestern Gobi. Despite the enormous size, the park has only seven permanent rangers. In 1991, the park joined the International Biosphere Reserve Network of the United Nations.
The Gobi Desert is the coldest and one of the highest deserts in the world, occupying about 1/3 of Mongolia. The oases of the Gobi are critical to wildlife and many plants. Scientists have identified over 50 oases in the Altai Inner desert, ten oases in the Dzungarian desert, and 20 oases in the Alashaa desert.
Moreover, scientists have identified a remarkable 410 species of plants despite the harsh environmental conditions. Despite the extreme conditions, these deserts and the surrounding regions sustain many animals, including black-tailed gazelles, marbled polecats, wild Bactrian camels, Mongolian wild ass, and Sand plovers. It is also one of the strongholds of elusive Snow Leopard and Manul Cat.
Dariganga National Park was established in 2005, covering 367,222 hectares (or 907,000 acres) of land in southeastern Mongolia, and patrolled by three full-time and ten seasonal rangers. Mrs. Ariuntsetseg, one of the very few women superintendents in Mongolia’s park system, has been managing the park since 2017. The park is known for Ganga Lake, the only open water pond in the heart of the great Gobi Desert. This lake attracts thousands of migratory birds in the Fall and famous for the swan gatherings, with several hundred congregating at a time.
The vast grasslands of Dariganga are speckled with volcanic craters, small lakes, and dunes, the sum of which makes the area one of the most scenic in eastern Mongolia. Before communism, this area was a haven of aristocracy, and its grasslands were the royal grazing grounds of horses belonging to the emperor in Beijing. Silversmiths and blacksmiths made their homes here, providing local women with elaborate fine jewelry.
These days, Dariganga is all about sacred mountains, one in town and the other – Shilin Bogd Uul – a short drive away. Tales of “Sain Er” (good man) still live among nomads, and they resonate with English Robin Hood stories. Sain Er were strong men who rebelled against the traditional rule of the rich, stealing from them to give to the poor. Shilin Bogd Mountain is known to be the historical place for Sain Er from around Mongolia to take an oath of staying loyal to their purpose in life.
Numrug National Park
Established in 1995, the Numrug National Park encompasses 582,200 hectares (or 1.44 million acres) of land in the most remote part of Eastern Mongolia. Eastern Mongolia is home to the Dornod steppes – uninhabited wild grasslands, roughly six times the size of Serengeti. It is one of the largest intact grassland ecosystems in the world. It is situated on the Mongolian Plateau with an average altitude of about 800 meters above sea level. The park has 493 different plant species, 251 birds, and 46 species of wild mammals. It’s home to some unique species like eastern moose, Pallas’s cat, Daurian hedgehog, and six species of cranes. Interestingly, freshwater monster fish, Taimen, is also found in the Halkh river due to its remote location.
Despite its significant size, the park is patrolled by five rangers, which means one ranger is responsible for an area of roughly 300,000 acres of land, and they do not have access to reliable transportation.
Dornod is home to over 1 million Mongolian Gazelle, a medium-sized antelope native to the semiarid Central Asian steppes of Mongolia and some parts of Siberia and China. The groups usually consist of 20-30 individuals in the summer and several hundred in the winter. However, herds of up to 30,000 individuals are not unusual.
Not long ago, a Chinese company started exploring oil in the central part of the Dornod steppes, disrupting the ecosystem and causing issues with dust and soil pollution along the transportation routes. Crude oil is being transported in tanker trucks across the Mongolian border.
The Great Gobi B National Park
Founded in 1975, the Great Gobi B National Park encompasses an area equal to 1,835,725 hectares or 4.5 million acres in the southwestern Gobi. Despite the enormous size, the park has only seven permanent rangers. In 1991, the park joined the International Biosphere Reserve Network of the United Nations.
The Gobi Desert is the coldest and one of the highest deserts in the world, occupying about 1/3 of Mongolia. The oases of the Gobi are critical to wildlife and many plants. Scientists have identified over 50 oases in the Altai Inner desert, ten oases in the Dzungarian desert, and 20 oases in the Alashaa desert.
Moreover, scientists have identified a remarkable 410 species of plants despite the harsh environmental conditions. Despite the extreme conditions, these deserts and the surrounding regions sustain many animals, including black-tailed gazelles, marbled polecats, wild Bactrian camels, Mongolian wild ass, and Sand plovers. It is also one of the strongholds of elusive Snow Leopard and Manul Cat.
After covering a distance of 1000 km through the north and south of the country, the bike handover ceremony was held at Chitwan National park, which covers an area close to 1,000 sq km and is home to half of Nepali Bengal tigers and 90% of the population of rhinos. It coincided with the 9th World Ranger Congress, which was attended by 600 rangers from over 70 countries.
Munkh Khairkhan National Park
The Munkh-Khairkhan is the largest mountain range from side ranges of Mongolian Altai. The Munkh-Khairkhan situated in the south part of the Altai, separated from main Mongolian Altai range by the river Bulgan-Gol. Here is the second highest Mongolia’s peak – the Munkh-Khairkhan (4362 m height). Glaciers cover a large area and feeds a lot of rivers of the river Bulgan-Gol basin.
Jamyangarav is one of five peaks of Munkh-Khairkhan mountain. It exists in the beginning of Huh lake (Хөх нуур), no snow at the top and Yamaat waterfall flows rising from here. Uriankhai people worship this peak, offer milk and insure their life historically.
Shuurhai first ice-hills: It is suitable to travel by horse and hiking in order to see them because of bad road. It is more comfortable to make research and you can see peculiar formation of glaciation period. Turtle rock and bull rock which exist on the tourists way are natural peculiar formation and they are attractive art of people.
Munkh-Khairkhan National Park has been founded in 2006 and our survey concentrated on the protected area as well as comprised the surrounding of the mountains. There are 40 families, 150 genera, and 267 species of vascular plants, including four endemic and 34 sub-endemic species and 15 species’ new distribution notes. Around the Munkh-Khairkhan mountain, 16 very rare (VR), 21 rare (R), eight endangered (EN) and two near threatened (NT) species are growing, indicating the high conservation value of this area and the necessity for research.
Khar-Us National Park
The Khar Us Lake National Park is located in western Mongolia in Great Lakes Depression. The park was established in June 1997. It covers an area of 850,000 ha in the Great Lakes Basin in Western Mongolia, forming part of the Altay-Sayan region, a WWF ecoregion. This unique landscape hosts many rare and endangered species, such as Altai mountain sheep or argali, Siberian ibex, snow leopard, and black stork.
The park is also one of the most internationally important wetland sites of Mongolia. In 1999 it was registered as a Ramsar site, providing an important breeding ground and migration stopover for about 268 bird species, of which 10 are globally endangered and 21 nationally threatened.
The outflow from Khar Us Lake goes into a short river called Chono Kharaikh, which flows into another freshwater lake, Khar Nuur (Black Lake), home to some migratory pelicans. The southern end of Khar Nuur flows into Durgun Nuur, which is a large alkaline lake good for swimming. The eastern side of Durgun Nuur is an area of bone-dry desert and extensive sand dunes.
The Munkh-Khairkhan is the largest mountain range from side ranges of Mongolian Altai. The Munkh-Khairkhan situated in the south part of the Altai, separated from main Mongolian Altai range by the river Bulgan-Gol. Here is the second highest Mongolia’s peak – the Munkh-Khairkhan (4362 m height). Glaciers cover a large area and feeds a lot of rivers of the river Bulgan-Gol basin.
Jamyangarav is one of five peaks of Munkh-Khairkhan mountain. It exists in the beginning of Huh lake (Хөх нуур), no snow at the top and Yamaat waterfall flows rising from here. Uriankhai people worship this peak, offer milk and insure their life historically.
Shuurhai first ice-hills: It is suitable to travel by horse and hiking in order to see them because of bad road. It is more comfortable to make research and you can see peculiar formation of glaciation period. Turtle rock and bull rock which exist on the tourists way are natural peculiar formation and they are attractive art of people.
Munkh-Khairkhan National Park has been founded in 2006 and our survey concentrated on the protected area as well as comprised the surrounding of the mountains. There are 40 families, 150 genera, and 267 species of vascular plants, including four endemic and 34 sub-endemic species and 15 species’ new distribution notes. Around the Munkh-Khairkhan mountain, 16 very rare (VR), 21 rare (R), eight endangered (EN) and two near threatened (NT) species are growing, indicating the high conservation value of this area and the necessity for research.
Khar-Us National Park
The Khar Us Lake National Park is located in western Mongolia in Great Lakes Depression. The park was established in June 1997. It covers an area of 850,000 ha in the Great Lakes Basin in Western Mongolia, forming part of the Altay-Sayan region, a WWF ecoregion. This unique landscape hosts many rare and endangered species, such as Altai mountain sheep or argali, Siberian ibex, snow leopard, and black stork.
The park is also one of the most internationally important wetland sites of Mongolia. In 1999 it was registered as a Ramsar site, providing an important breeding ground and migration stopover for about 268 bird species, of which 10 are globally endangered and 21 nationally threatened.
The outflow from Khar Us Lake goes into a short river called Chono Kharaikh, which flows into another freshwater lake, Khar Nuur (Black Lake), home to some migratory pelicans. The southern end of Khar Nuur flows into Durgun Nuur, which is a large alkaline lake good for swimming. The eastern side of Durgun Nuur is an area of bone-dry desert and extensive sand dunes.
Its landscapes represent the north Patagonian Andean Zone consisting of three types, namely, the Altoandino (with perpetual snow above an altitude of 1,600 metres (5,200 ft)), the Andino-Patagónico (in the lower reaches of the hills) and the Patagonian steppe. It also represents small parts of the Valdivian Rainforest.
The park and the reserve lie at an altitude of 720–3,574 metres (2,362–11,726 ft), and are designated under IUCN management categories II (National Park) and IV (Management Reserve). The park is completely protected while the reserve is partially protected. The national park is dominated by the high mountain chain of the Andes, many lakes, rapid rivers, waterfalls, snow-clad peaks, glaciers and extensive forests. It is bordered by Chile on its western side.
The park and the reserve lie at an altitude of 720–3,574 metres (2,362–11,726 ft), and are designated under IUCN management categories II (National Park) and IV (Management Reserve). The park is completely protected while the reserve is partially protected. The national park is dominated by the high mountain chain of the Andes, many lakes, rapid rivers, waterfalls, snow-clad peaks, glaciers and extensive forests. It is bordered by Chile on its western side.
The park is located in Bayan-Ulgii province and stretches from Russia along the Chinese border, and the Altai Mountain range divides China, Russia, Mongolia, and Kazakhstan, for over 200kms. The Altai Mountains have been inhabited for around 12,000 years and hundreds of thousands of petroglyphs are found in the park, which is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Kazakhs and Tuvans still live in the park and Kazakhs are famous for their eagle hunting practices. There are many endangered species within the park including argali sheep, ibex, grey wolves, red deer, elk, snow leopards, Altai snowcock, golden eagles and many more.
Kazakhs and Tuvans still live in the park and Kazakhs are famous for their eagle hunting practices. There are many endangered species within the park including argali sheep, ibex, grey wolves, red deer, elk, snow leopards, Altai snowcock, golden eagles and many more.
The Mount Otgontenger is the highest glacier peak of the Khangai Mountains, a mountain range extending 750 km across western Mongolia. The south face of Otgontenger forms the most extensive granite wall in Mongolia.
The park covers 95,500 hectares or approx. 236,000 acres, and is rich in biodiversity. Many endangered species including snow leopard, argali sheep, bearded vulture, Siberian taimen and Corsac fox are found in the park. The mountains and forests thrive with hundreds of species of plants, featuring medicinal and some of the rarest plants in Mongolia.
The park covers 95,500 hectares or approx. 236,000 acres, and is rich in biodiversity. Many endangered species including snow leopard, argali sheep, bearded vulture, Siberian taimen and Corsac fox are found in the park. The mountains and forests thrive with hundreds of species of plants, featuring medicinal and some of the rarest plants in Mongolia.
Ulaan Taiga Strictly Protected Area
Established in 2003 and later expanded in 2011, Ulaan Taiga Strictly Protected Area covers a vast land of 434,900 hectares (over 1 million acres). Five rivers have their headwaters in remote regions of Ulaan Taiga. The Hug, Bos, Muntarag, Guna, and Delger Murun are part of the Yenisei watershed, which drains into the Arctic Ocean. More than 300 lakes adorn the little-explored backcountry of Ulaan Taiga.
Tengis Shishged National Park
With an area of 869,070 hectares (2.15 million acres), Tengis-Shishged National Park was established in 2011. Located in Tsagaan Nuur soum this park is renowned for its community of Dukha reindeer herders. The Dukha continue to practice shamanic traditions that revere mountains and the natural world. Tengis-Shishged is one of the few places in the world where this ancient form of reindeer pastoralism and religion survive.
Horidol Saridag Strictly Protected Area
Horidol Saridag Strictly Protected Area was established in 1997 and expanded in 2008. With an area of 226,000 hectares (about 560 thousand acres), Horidol Saridag hosts Mongolia’s northernmost population of Argali sheep, as well as numerous other wildlife species including elk, moose, bear, and wolverine. The tallest peak in the range is the distinctive Delger Khan, visible from Ulaan Uul Soum.
Established in 2003 and later expanded in 2011, Ulaan Taiga Strictly Protected Area covers a vast land of 434,900 hectares (over 1 million acres). Five rivers have their headwaters in remote regions of Ulaan Taiga. The Hug, Bos, Muntarag, Guna, and Delger Murun are part of the Yenisei watershed, which drains into the Arctic Ocean. More than 300 lakes adorn the little-explored backcountry of Ulaan Taiga.
Tengis Shishged National Park
With an area of 869,070 hectares (2.15 million acres), Tengis-Shishged National Park was established in 2011. Located in Tsagaan Nuur soum this park is renowned for its community of Dukha reindeer herders. The Dukha continue to practice shamanic traditions that revere mountains and the natural world. Tengis-Shishged is one of the few places in the world where this ancient form of reindeer pastoralism and religion survive.
Horidol Saridag Strictly Protected Area
Horidol Saridag Strictly Protected Area was established in 1997 and expanded in 2008. With an area of 226,000 hectares (about 560 thousand acres), Horidol Saridag hosts Mongolia’s northernmost population of Argali sheep, as well as numerous other wildlife species including elk, moose, bear, and wolverine. The tallest peak in the range is the distinctive Delger Khan, visible from Ulaan Uul Soum.
This Park encircles the lake and covers 1.2 million hectares (or 2.5 million acres) – making it bigger than Yellowstone National Park in the US.
Surrounded by forests, the water entering the lake can take 500 years to exit via the one outlet: the Eg River. This Park encircles the lake and covers 1.2 million hectares (or 2.5 million acres) – making it bigger than Yellowstone National Park in the US.
Surrounded by forests, the water entering the lake can take 500 years to exit via the one outlet: the Eg River. This Park encircles the lake and covers 1.2 million hectares (or 2.5 million acres) – making it bigger than Yellowstone National Park in the US.
More than 160 motorcycles donated to park rangers around the world
Kilometers Traveled
Motorcycles delivered to 16 Parks (total size 9+ million hectares - almost as big as Portugal)
I am inspired by the mission of Rally for Rangers - to use motorcycles to better the lives of those working hard to protect the earth's natural resources. Mongolia has become incredibly special place to me through my involvement with Rally for Rangers.
Anna Kim
Rider from Mongolia rally 2018, Nepal rally 2019, Mongolia rally 2021, Mongolia rally 2022
I had several special moments in Peru and most involved complete strangers becoming family in a matter of days. Just looking at fellow riders – the whole team – and realizing we were all united for such a wonderful cause.
Tim Burke
Rider from Peru rally 2022
Seeing the beautiful and wild Mongolian landscape in person gave me an incredible appreciation for the need to protect it. Doing that with Rally for Rangers and the other riders makes me feel like I found my "tribe".
Seth San Filippo
Rider from Mongolia rally 2021
It was a dream come true when I received a new motorcycle from the Rally for Rangers. My new bike helps me to save time and do my job more efficiently.
Byambaa Ornobish
Park ranger at Ulaan Taiga Protected Areas, Mongolia
I work in extreme conditions and the area I patrol has very difficult terrains. Yamaha AG 200 is perfect transportation to do my job. I can't tell how much difference it has made and what a huge contribution it is to our park.
Bayarjargal Erelkheg
Park ranger at Ulaan Taiga Protected Areas, Mongolia
It’s very important for conservationists to have proper equipment and safe vehicles to work in harsh environment. The area that I patrol has particularly severe weather conditions and natural barriers. That’s why my new motorcycle is my best companion.
Altangerel Narantsetseg
Park ranger at Otgontenger Strictly Protected Area
Join us at local events featuring
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our award-winning documentary, A Rally for Rangers.
How Does A 9-Day Motorcycle Journey Across Mongolia To Deliver A Bike To A Park Ranger Sound?
One of the coolest tourism-for-good initiatives for anyone interested in combining the two things they love most – motorcycles and the outdoors, obviously – Rally for Rangers has been delivering motorcycles to park rangers across Mongolia (and beyond) since 2014.
meet the rangers
Park Rangers around the world are on the front lines of environmental and cultural resource protection. Often chronically underfunded and underequipped, they sacrifice much at great personal risk to protect nature and culture for all of us. Meet some them...
Baast Zentger
Dalaitseren Sukhbaatar
Nisehkhuu Gaanjuur
Buyantogtokh Dorjbat
Myagmarjav Baadai
Enkhtugs Urjinbadam
Altangerel Pushaa
Zuunbileg Otgonbayar
Uuganbayar Sukhbaatar
Ulziibaatar Erkhem
Serikjan Gulstan
Erzat Pushatay
Sharavjamts Gombosuren (Sharav)
Batdorj Byambasuren
Batkhuu Bagvai
Battogtoh Tumur
Bayarjargal Erelheg
Bayarkhuu Huuhen
Boldbaatar Baljinnyam
Byambaa Ornobish
Chinbat Enebish
Dalaibayar Baasan
Davaadalai Radnaa
Ganhuyag Tsagaanbandi
Ginjbold Purevjii
Nyam-Ochir Duujii
Nyamkhuu Tseveenjav
Odhuu Morh
Otgonbayar Tudev
Sodbileg Byambajav
Tumursukh Jal
Battsooj Erdensan
Sarantuya Soninbayar
Baast
Zentger
His family lived in the Altai for many generations and what is now parkland used to be their pastures. As result, he has seen how the park was initially set up and later how the Takhi horses reintroduction project unfolded. After working as a volunteer ranger between 2001-2003, since 2004 became a full-time ranger.
“Being a ranger in the Gobi is not easy. Salary is small and there is not much available in terms of technical support. However, this is my ancestors land and I take pride in contributing my share to protect it”.
He lives with his wife and two children.
Facebook: Бааст Зэнтгэр
Dalaitseren
Sukhbaatar
Son of former superintendent of Great Gobi B National Park, Dalaitseren spent his childhood traveling in the park with his dad, who was instrumental in the reintroduction of the Takhi, Przewalski’s horse. After his father’s untimely passing he decided to become a biologist. Went to the National University of Mongolia to become a biologist and in 2017 came back to Altai and joined the park administration.
Leads studies on Takhi, Black-Tailed Gazelle and Khulan, wild donkey.
Since his childhood, he rode racehorses and participated in competitions around the country including several international races. Loves photography and soccer.
Facebook: Далайцэрэн Сүхбаатар
Nisehkhuu
Gaanjuur
After serving in the Mongolian army for 20 years as a music squad leader Nisehkhuu was discharged right during the democratic revolution of 1989. Worked herding animals until 1994, when he applied for work at the newly formed Great Gobi B National Park administration and since then working as a ranger.
Lives in Altai with his wife. Loves breeding fast horses. He holds several medals from music competitions and proud of his younger son who is a locally-known wrestler.
Facebook: Nisekhkhuu Gaanjuur
Buyantogtokh
Dorjbat
Native of Gobi-Altai province, Buyantogtokh spent his childhood by the Great Gobi B National Park. He moved to the city after serving in the military and worked in the private sector for almost 10 years. He recently moved back to his hometown in 2018 and started working as a ranger. He is an adept rider and a fast learner. Buyantogtokh is a single father of two beautiful daughters. His wife passed away in 6 years ago from a car accident.
Buyantogtokh is the first ranger in Great Gobi B National Park whose job solely focuses on the protection of Przewalski’s horses – the only truly wild horses in existence.
Myagmarjav
Baadai
Native to the Altai region, Myagmarjav lived and worked here all his life. During 2005-2009 worked at the Environment Department of the local governor’s office. Since 2014 started working at the Great Gobi B National Park as a ranger.
In his younger years, he wrestled in local competitions, loves to sing, and plays volleyball. Married and has five children. His wife works as a kindergarten teacher.
Facebook: Myagmarjav Baadai
Enkhtugs
Urjinbadam
Native to Halkhgol country, where Numrog National Park is located, Enkhtugs used to work at the governor’s office before joining park administration as a ranger in 2009. Loves cooking and known among his friends as a “chef from Hainan”. Lives with his wife and a son. His wife Erdenedelger works as a governor of the Tashgai village of Khalkh Gol soum. Patrols a territory of 109224.75 hectares or 269900.2 acres.
Enkhtugs loves to train racehorses and watch wrestling. He has been riding motorcycles for 25 years.
Facebook: Энхтөгс Үржинбадам
Altangerel
Pushaa
Native to Ulaanbaatar, fell in love with eastern Mongolian steppes while serving in the border troops for 10 years. Got married there and lives now with his wife and 4 daughters. Working as a ranger since 2009. Patrols a territory of 81897.20 hectares or 202372.3 acres. In many cases he has to go on patrol on horseback and interactions with wildlife are common. He remembers numerous encounters with wildlife, like a pack of wolves stocking him, or a mom bear with 2 cubs attacking while he was setting camp.
He loves to train racehorses. He has been riding motorcycles for 21 years.
“Places I work have tall grasses, very humid and boggy in summer and get deep snow in winter, so no bike or car is able to go through these areas. As a result, a lot of my patrolling is limited to horseback riding”.
Facebook: Pushaa Altangerel
Zuunbileg
Otgonbayar
After serving in the army he decided to become a ranger and joined the Dariganga National Park administration in 2015. Patrols a territory of 78,000 hectares of 190,000 acres and he has been riding his motorbike for 10 years. Actively works with the marmot and Argali big horn sheep reintroduction programs.
Loves riding horse and singing. Lives with his wife, who teaches at the local kindergarten, and his son.
Facebook: Zuunaa Otgonbayr
Uuganbayar
Sukhbaatar
Native to Dariganga Uuganbayar came back to his native county after spending time in the capital city as well as Turkey. Saw some changes in the land, mostly caused by people. Many beautiful places started filling with garbage and wildlife was pushed away from its historic habitat. This made him change his career path and since 2013 Uuganbayar is working as a ranger. Actively participated in the reintroduction of the marmot’s project. Patrols an area of 91,000 hectares or 225,000 acres.
Lives with his wife and two daughters. Has been riding motorcycles for the last 20 years.
Facebook: Bayra Uuganbayr Bayra
Ulziibaatar
Erkhem
Started working at the park since the establishment of the Dariganga National park in 2005. Patrols 81,000 hectares or 200,000 acres of land. Has been instrumental in the reintroduction of marmots in the park, as well as lead work with the local community to increase the population of Argali big horn sheep from 3 to 32 over the last 15 years.
Has been riding motorcycles for the last 25 years.
Ulziibataatar loves horses. Grew up raising, taming, and racing them in local competitions. Lives with his wife and two daughters. His wife is a painter and held exhibitions of her artwork. Has been riding motorcycles for the last 25 years.
Facebook: Өлзийбаатар Эрхэм
Serikjan
Gulstan
I graduated as a lawyer from the National University of Mongolia in 2015, but my passion has always been the mountains. I love to sing as I traverse the park. As a ranger, it is my excitement to see the increase in the population of wildlife.
Erzat
Pushatay
I have been working as a ranger for 22 years at the Altai Tavan Bogd National Park (ATBNP) since it was established by the 43rd declaration of the State Great Hural (Parliament) in 1996. I patrol 74 thousand hectares (183 thousand acres) of the national park which covers Eki-Ashi, the headwaters and shorelines of the Eki-Asha river. I give the utmost significance in finding ways of promoting community participation in conservation of the glaciers and wildlife.
Sharavjamts
Gombosuren
I patrol 70,300 hectares (173,800 acres) of Tarvagatai Nuruu National Park. I have been a ranger here for 17 consecutive years since 2000. During my career as a ranger, I have been awarded Ministry of Environment’s Certificate of Honor and been named as the Best Environmental Officer.
Batdorj
Byambasuren
I was born into a nomadic family and I was a herder. One time, I found an Argali sheep hidden amongst my herd of sheep. It was a very cold winter. I cared for the Argali until spring and let it go into the wild. Ever since, I was inspired to become a ranger and work to protect wildlife. I’ve been working as a ranger for 12 years now and I patrol 38,000 hectares [94 thousand acres] of Horidol Saridag Strictly Protected Area.
Batkhuu
Bagvai
I was a local businessman. I used to buy endangered Taimen fish from my fellow community members by truckloads and resell them. It was not long before I realized I was hurting the nature. When the Tengis Shishgid National Park was established, I applied to become a ranger. Now, as a ranger, I strive to work with our local community members promoting community based conservation and sustainable tourism development. I patrol 124 thousand hectares (306 thousand acres) of Tengis-Shishged National Park.
Battogtoh
Tumur
Prior to joining the Tengis Shishged National Park, I spent 20 years herding livestock. I had a pleasure of seeing some of the most beautiful sceneries of nature and some of the rare species of flora and fauna of my birthplace. I’ve been working to raise awareness among local people by introducing alternatives to make a living without harming natural wonders. Although, it is very difficult to access our Tengis Shishged National Park, it is a beautiful place with high mountains and wide rivers and it’s home to 6 world-endangered species of animals. I am a proud ranger to patrol this beautiful place on a horseback, on foot and as well as on a back of a reindeer.
Bayarjargal
Erelheg
When I was 10 years old, I won a competition on “Mother Nature”. This opportunity definitely motivated me to work in conservation. Now as a local ranger, I work with school children to increase their participation in environmental protection. I strongly believe in community-based conservation and work with local cooperatives. I patrol 63,000 hectares [over 155 thousand acres] of the protected area.
Bayarkhuu
Huuhen
I started my career as a Cinema Mechanic. I traveled around showing and promoting international and national films, history, culture, religions, traditions and legends of people. It helped me to develop a deep passion for nature and connection to people. When Mongolia transitioned to market economy in 1990s, people started exploiting the nature and environment. I witnessed illegal logging, depletion of rivers and lakes, poaching and greediness of artisanal miners in our Taiga region. As the condition worsened, I wanted to strengthen my devotion to nature by becoming a ranger and promised to make a difference.
Boldbaatar
Baljinnyam
I was concerned when the artisanal miners in Ulaan-Uul soum discovered gold and the deterioration of nature became so vivid. When the Ulaan Taiga Protected Areas Administration was established in 2012, the opportunity presented to me to become a ranger. There was no turning back. Now, as a ranger of my homeland, I patrol 61,000 hectares [~150,000 acres). Last year, I took part in chasing out the artisanal miners and started the reclamation process.
Byambaa
Ornobish
My grandfather used to be a hunter. However, at the time, hunting was for sustenance. We used to see deer and elk wander around soum center and everywhere in the mountains. But when people started seeing wildlife as way of making money, it has dramatically affected its population. I’ve been working as a ranger for 16 years now. I patrol 37,400 hectares [92 thousand acres] of the protected area.
Chinbat
Enebish
I used to be a famous hunter of our region. While studying in Moscow, Russia, I fell very ill, and returned back home. My parents were very spiritual. Upon my return, my parents asked a local shaman for the cause of my illness. They found out that the spirits of nature were angry that I’d hunted so many of its wild animals. It was an eye opening experience for me. Therefore, I’ve been working as a ranger since 2006.
As a ranger, I started an initiative to reintroduce marmot population and replantation of wild onions in the region. I patrol 63,000 hectares [over 155 thousand acres] of the protected area.
Dalaibayar
Baasan
I wasted most of my young adulthood to drinking. When gold was discovered in Ulaan-Uul soum, I was one of the first “ninjas” to dig for gold. As a leader, I knew every “ninja” in the area. I cannot forget that day when I looked around and I could not recognize my country. It lost its beauty and I felt responsible. I quit drinking and promised to overcome my weaknesses. It was my time to give back. I am thankful that I was trusted to become a ranger and I strive to be a role model to our younger generation. Since I became a ranger, I was heavily involved in chasing out the “ninjas” out of the beautiful valley and led the reclamation initiative carried out by the administration. I am proud to patrol 63,000 hectares [over 155 thousand acres].
Davaadalai
Radnaa
I was inspired to become a ranger by trying to find ways to lessen a human impact on the environment. I am proud that I built my own ranger station in the mountains and I patrol 38,000 hectares [94 thousand acres] of Horidol Saridag Strictly Protected Area.
Ganhuyag
Tsagaanbandi
My nickname is “Citizen’s Registrar” because I happen to know full names and date of births of everyone in 4 soums of Darkhad Valley. I’d like to think that it helps me to do my job well. I was one of the first rangers to patrol the Horidal Saridag Strictly Protected Area. I patrol 62,000 hectares [~ 153,000 acres]. I am also very proud to be part of the team who reclaimed the territory from the artisanal miners.
Ginjbold
Purevjii
Just recently, some rich and powerful were illegally fishing Taimen, the biggest trout in the world. Once they saw me, they ran towards their helicopter. However, I was able to capture them on the spot. I used to be a herdsman but decided to become a ranger to contribute in preservation of my country.
Nyam-Ochir
Duujii
Four years ago, on September 9, I brought together 52 community members to stand against the Ider Murun mining company. Even though we succeeded, I knew it was not over. When the Ulaan Taiga Protected Areas Administration was established, I decided to become a ranger. I patrol 37,000 hectares [92 thousand acres] of the protected area and within a year, we decreased number of poaching dramatically and all 7 cases were caught.
Nyamkhuu
Tseveenjav
People know me as not being able to hurt a fly. I grew up with a deep passion for nature. I could never comprehend as my friends got into hunting games. I wanted to stop poaching. I simply followed my passion and became a ranger. I’ve been working as a ranger for 9 years. I patrol 38,000 hectares [94 thousand acres] of my beautiful country.
Odhuu
Morh
Years ago, I was attacked by a bear while collecting berries in the forest. I fought for my survival and it spared my life. Since then, I praise “Mother Nature” and made a promise to preserve my country for future generations. Now as a ranger, I work with community members in introducing them to the significance of our work.
My aspiration is to expand the territory of our protected areas, so more places will be protected in the future. I patrol 124,000 hectares [over 306 thousand acres] of Tengis Shishgid National Park.
Otgonbayar
Tudev
Before establishment of the Ulaan Taiga Specially Protected Areas Administration, there were 7000 artisanal miners in Ulaan Taiga (Red Taiga). I was a poacher and miner. But I started questioning the importance of life and value of nature. I’ve done so many things in life and realized I have never done anything to protect nature. It was time. I did not want my birthplace to disappear in front of my eyes and I did not want to regret. I needed a change. When the protected areas administration was established, I applied to become a ranger.
Our fellow rangers and I were successful in chasing out all the illegal miners and we are doing our best to stop poaching completely in Taiga. I patrol 124,000 hectares [over 306 thousand acres].
Sodbileg
Byambajav
I started hunting since I was 11 years old. I learnt from the best hunters in town. Years ago, a tragedy happened in Renchinlhumbe soum. A bear broke into a home and killed 3 family members. I got together with some members of the community and chased the bear. Prior to 1990, people hunted for their living. Since the transition to market economy, people started hunting for greed.
Nature has granted me with many blessings. It hurt my feelings to see people taking the nature for granted. I needed to take action. I formed a movement to fight against mining licenses and was able to chase them out of my people’s land. I’ve been working as a ranger for 19 years. Compare to 1990, the population of wildlife in my area have increased by 5 times. I patrol 38,500 hectares [95 thousand acres] of the protected area.
Tumursukh
Jal
I’ve been working in conservation for more than 27 years. I was born and raised in Darkhad Valley at foothills of Horidal Saridag Mountains. When I turned 7, my father started taking him to the wilderness and we explored this infinite Taiga together. I have 10 siblings and very early in life, I learnt how to be independent and hardworking.
In 1987, after graduating college, I was under a review at the Ministry – waiting to be accepted for my new position with the government. The process took longer than I expected. The city life was overwhelming. I missed home; I missed my Taiga. One night, I heard a horse neigh and woke up next morning to find out that I was appointed to protect Lake Hovsgol. 27 years have passed and I am proud to be where I belong and doing what I love. Throughout these years, I covered 880,000km [547,000 miles] by car, 168,000km [104,400 miles] on a horseback, 32,000km [20,000 miles] on foot, 5,600km [3,500 miles] on my skates, 750km [470 miles] on a reindeer and to spend 5,400 days in wilderness patrolling the parks.
Battsooj
Erdensan
Battsooj works as a ranger and Environmental Inspector for Lake Hovsgol National Park at Tsagaan-Uur soum. He is an ecologist and has worked for 6 years as a ranger, protecting 31 thousand hectare land of Dayan Deerh Natural Monument.
Sarantuya
Soninbayar
Son of former superintendent of Great Gobi B National Park, Dalaitseren spent his childhood traveling in the park with his dad, who was instrumental in the reintroduction of the Takhi, Przewalski’s horse. After his father’s untimely passing he decided to become a biologist. Went to the National University of Mongolia to become a biologist and in 2017 came back to Altai and joined the park administration.
Leads studies on Takhi, Black-Tailed Gazelle and Khulan, wild donkey.
Since his childhood, he rode racehorses and participated in competitions around the country including several international races. Loves photography and soccer.
Facebook: Далайцэрэн Сүхбаатар
meet the riders
Meet the voluteers who make Rally for Rangers possible. Dozens of committed adventure riders raising the funds necessary, taking time away from work and family, personally delivering these critical new tools to park rangers around the world.
Al Limon
Steve Zuschin
Erich Rainville
Wesley Thornberry
Christine Truong
Herbert Green
Sebastiaan de With
Robert Kennedy
Michael Emrich
Linda Cicero
Asher Woolverton
Al Limon
I am a native Los Angeleno with deep family ties to Mexico. I attend school and worked in both countries and am also a citizen of both. I started riding motorbikes when I was 12 until I was 16, spending that time on motocross tracks, deserts and vacant lot shenanigans. I resumed riding again at 48 once my daughters were in college and have not stopped since. I try to take at least 2 lengthy motorcycle trips, domestic and international as well as 1 or 2 different types of motorcycle classes a year. I own my own business which gives me the freedom to pursue this passion. Our family consists of my wife, 3 daughters and 2 parrots. I owned and ridden many types of motorcycles, I enjoy eating all foods except coconut and experimenting with unknown cuisines . I believe a good martini after 5 is good for the soul. I enjoy wandering whenever possible. I am excited to be part of this journey, which came my way on a lark. I met Tom at a pre-pandemic Rawhyde event, after a bit of chit-chat he gave me his card. I decided to reach out to Tom after seeing that card sitting on my work bench for over 2 years now... and here we are. I’m really looking forward to being more than a tourist.
Steve Zuschin
I was born and raised in Santa Cruz, California. but don’t hold that against me, I learned an incredible appreciation for nature here. I’ve spent time living in and riding Motorcycles in Portland OR, Chico CA, Brooklyn NY, Atlanta GA and currently reside on the South Shore of Boston MA. I’m avid hiker, runner and camper and am so in love with our state and national parks here in the US. I fell in love with two wheels as early as I can remember, starting out with BMX bikes and taking advantage of motors whenever possible. I love riding, all kinds of riding, and do my best to get as many hours in the saddle as possible. I studied finance in college and have built a career in software sales in financial services, primarily working with startups that serve financial advisors with automated solutions. My amazing wife and 3 daughters encourage my motorcycle habit and great outdoor adventures, and I’m forever grateful for their support.
Erich Rainville
I’ve been riding for more than 15 years. In the last 5 years, I gave up my sport bike and fell in love with adventure riding. Since then, I’ve been able to explore the backcountry mountain roads of the Appalachian mountains of Virginia and West Virginia, the Rocky Mountains in Colorado, and the sand dunes of North Carolina’s Outer Banks. In 2021, I completed the MidAtlantic Backcountry Discovery Route (MABDR). This year I’ll be riding the North East BDR before heading to Bhutan.
Wesley Thornberry
Wesley is a founding member of the Rally for Rangers. Since its inception, as an avid motorcyclist, Wesley spearheaded the Rally for Rangers, raised awareness internationally about the National Parks of Mongolia, and rode in all rallies.
Wesley is the founder of Trend Digital, www.trend-digital.com, which specializes in post-production imaging services for e-commerce clothing and fashion retailers. Wesley is also a photographer, adventurer, and traveler and has documented the tribes of Omo Valley, Ethiopia, to the nomadic shamans of Mongolia. He currently lives in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia.
Christine Truong
Christine Truong has spent the last 20 years surfing and riding motorcycles all over the world, commuting to and from work on a bike and spending her weekends working on mastering her skills in the dirt. She has taken training classes for Supermoto, Adventure, Off-Road, and Enduro.
Herbert Green
Retired, older guy who likes to travel on his 2015 BMW R1200GS. My first bike was a 1949 Harley which I got when I was 18-years old. I lived in Honolulu and enjoyed that life on a 1976 Honda 700. I lived and worked in Asia for 18-years. I rode to Alaska on my 2008 Honda Goldwing 1800. My last long ride was solo on the Trans-Labrador Highway.
Sebastiaan de With
Sebastiaan is a Dutch guy with a penchant for getting lost. From an early age he enjoyed nature and wandering off, which he did with great regularity in the Dutch countryside until he reluctantly learned to ride a bicycle. Maintaining both a wandering lifestyle and mind, he proceeded to somewhat bumble through his early life by attending art school and working as a freelance artist starting at age 16. An avid designer and artist, he taught himself digital design from an early age and worked for clients like HP, Mozilla, Sony and Apple by age 18. He moved on a whim to San Francisco in 2011, pursuing a self-taught passion for design, to head up design at a small music startup, managing a small team and designing everything from branding, websites, and user interfaces. San Francisco enthralled him with far more than work, though: he found the proximity to nature and the sheer beauty of the environment truly inspiring.
In California, he fell in love with photography and motorcycles, the latter enabling his favorite past-time: wandering. He joined his best friend Stuart Philkill on a motorcycle trip from San Francisco to the Arctic Ocean after having learned to ride for only a year, photographing the journey from his Ducati. After that, he could not stop himself from continued explorations of the far reaches of the planet, riding through the US, Mexico, Central and South America, Europe and more. When Sebastiaan is not riding, he’s shooting photos on big cameras for motorcycle brands and other assignments, or taking them on his iPhone for Lux Optics, the iPhone photography company he co-founded in 2017. His hobbies involve spending as much time as possible in nature, through hiking or camping, traveling, cooking, and reading. This was Sebastiaan’s first Rally for Rangers.
Robert Kennedy
Robert came late to motorcycling at age 26 and was surprised to fall head-over-heels in love with it while taking a beginning rider course. That's more than half his life ago now, and in the 29 years since, motorcycling has provided countless lifelong friendships, nine exhilarating years of motorcycle road racing (three class championships), and not least, his introduction to Linda Cicero, his fellow traveler and spouse.
Race bikes aside, since starting out on a Honda CM400T, he has racked up the miles on a Honda Nighthawk 650, a Kawasaki Concours, a BMW F650GS Dakar, and most recently a Honda Africa Twin. He enjoys mainly sport touring and adventure touring, and is lucky to live in northern California where great riding abounds.
For years he maintained dual careers as a computer programmer and a performing jazz musician on piano, organ, and accordion. He is glad now to have set technology work aside and to be giving music the focus and attention it has always deserved.
Rally for Rangers excites Robert because of its irresistible mix of travel complete with encountering locals off the beaten tourist path, the appeal of motorcycling as transport, and most of all the prospect of helping preserve precious land, heritage, and resources in dire need of stewardship. Highlights of his past motorcycle travel include a coast-to-coast journey across the US and back, Baja California, and several countries in southern Africa.
Michael Emrich
Started riding motorcycles at age 12 on his parents ranch. Riding desert, TT, mountain fire roads as a kid.
Gave up riding for 20 years while he and his wife Anna-Louise raised their 2 children, Started a Solar Energy Contracting Company in 1975 Retiring 2017. Son now runs the company.
Reentered the riding community at age 49. For my 50th Birthday my wife and I took 2 months to ride to Alaska and back with some friends. MC trips include Newfoundland, 2nd trip to Alaska, 2 trips through the Baja, 3 trips across Canada, 5 across the USA including Blues Tour Tennessee to New Orleans, Route 66 Chicago to Las Angeles, 8700 mile trip from Cusco, Peru to Ushuaia, Argentina at age 70. Rides KTM 450 Dirt and BMW R1200GSA street and dirt.
Active in Kiwanis Club Atascadero and supports many charities for Homeless, Boys and Girls Club, Cancer Research, Heart Disease, Alzheimer's Disease and Local Food Bank.
Just had 50th Wedding Anniversary.
Linda Cicero
Linda is a native Californian, a San Franciscan by birth. She grew up in the East Bay and moved back to SF after college. She also trained as a secondary ed teacher but followed my BFA in photography into a career as a corporate photographer and then a university photojournalist for Stanford. She retired at the end of the 2019 school year. She’s been keeping busy during a time of limited travel by volunteering with my local food bank, bicycling, reading and staying close to my local motorcycle friends.
Her love for motorcycle travel began over 30 years ago when she first strapped a tent to a bike, beginning a journey that she hope to continue as long as possible.
She’s explored the many types of riding that are so easy to access in the west and especially in Northern California. There are seriously fun tracks for track days, twisty mountain roads in the Bay Area and beyond, and the off-road opportunities in places like Death Valley or the Sierra Nevada that can satisfy the desire for dirt roads. The term Adventure Touring hadn’t really been used much when she bought her first G/S in 1998, a 1986 BMW R80 G/S that she still have and ride regularly. This bike is her gold standard for the kind of riding she likes to do.
That motorcycle took her through many western states and a little bit of Canada on trips, including an excursion to Alaska. They traveled to Baja to celebrate her 50th birthday. She’s ridden motorcycles in the French/Swiss Alps and on a trip to southern Africa from Victoria Falls to Cape Town. This was her first Rally for Rangers and she was so excited to be joining R4R on the journey through Bhutan.
Asher Woolverton
Asher has always loved two wheels, from the elementary school years when the lot next door was a perfect BMX course to his first ambitious multi-state solo motorcycle tour on a 1990 Honda TransAlp.
He was born in Ghana into a missionary family and every day as a young boy seemed filled with adventure even in the backyard. The early influence of his father and friends with their small displacement motorcycles sowed the seeds in Asher for a later passion for motorcycle travel. Most of his teenage years were spent growing up in Colorado Springs with an ease for math and physics which eventually led to degrees in Engineering Physics and Materials Science degrees from the Colorado School of Mines in Golden. He co-founded his environmental club during high school and continued to volunteer on ecology supporting projects throughout college and after graduate school.
Asher joined Rally for Rangers in 2019 for the group’s first trip to Nepal and found it to be an immediate education in adventure riding given no-rules traffic in Kathmandu and powdery dust in the Mustang region.
Wesley Thornberry
Joseph Costa
Tom Medema
Lyndsey Deaton
Domenic DeVincenzi
Craig Murray
Herbert Green
Michael Iannitti
Yogeeta Gamper
Tim Burke
Susan Seo
Richard Lynch
Kodie Goodwin
David Braun
Aaron Taddiken
Elias Bikahi
Wesley Thornberry
Wesley is a founding member of the Rally for Rangers. Since its inception, as an avid motorcyclist, Wesley spearheaded the Rally for Rangers, raised awareness internationally about the National Parks of Mongolia, and rode in all rallies.
Wesley is the founder of Trend Digital, www.trend-digital.com, which specializes in post-production imaging services for e-commerce clothing and fashion retailers. Wesley is also a photographer, adventurer, and traveler and has documented the tribes of Omo Valley, Ethiopia, to the nomadic shamans of Mongolia. He currently lives in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia.
Joseph Costa
I am a private yacht captain with a passion for riding. I am super excited to help out the rangers while getting to do this trip of a lifetime!
Tom Medema
Tom Medema developed a passion for national parks at a young age on family vacations throughout the American west. This passion turned into a career as a park ranger spanning nearly 30 years. Tom is equally passionate about national parks and public lands around the world and has worked with parks and monuments in South America and Europe as a subject matter expert in the field of interpretation and education. The opportunity to support the protection of natural and cultural heritage of parks and protected areas around the world is an opportunity he is excited and humbled to be a part of.
Tom is a sports and outdoor enthusiast, spending much of his free time enjoying two-wheeled travel by mountain bike, road bike, and motorbike. Over the past 20 years he has owned Harley-Davidson and BMW bikes and is currently riding an F800GS on the back roads and trails of Maryland, Virginia and West Virginia in preparation for the next epic and compelling adventure protecting the worlds special places one motorcycle at a time.
Lyndsey Deaton
Starstruck by dirt bikers jumping on a nearby course while on a family vacation to the Grand Canyon, Lyndsey knew from an early age that motorcycles were in her future. At 14, and much to the surprise of her parents, she negotiated with passion at a swap meet and brought home a 1970 Yamaha YZ250 without ever having been on a bike before. It proved to be too much of a “starter” bike, but she persisted. She traded it for a Kawasaki KX125 that would open the gateway of two-wheeled adventures for many years to come.
Fast forward to 2017 and Lyndsey was living in India – the 80th country that she has explored – riding a Royal Enfield Classic on weekend trips and a Honda Activa through the hectic daily traffic of downtown Hyderabad. An architect by day, she worked with underrepresented groups such as children and women on sustainable housing in her “other job” as a researcher. Lyndsey has collaborated with communities in the US, the Philippines, Uganda, Japan, Chile, Germany, Saudi Arabia, and Oman. Today, she is back in Eugene, Oregon riding her dual sport BMW GS650. She usually has a few side projects in the works that marry her professional and personal passions such as founding a tequila distillery (Casaquila), building an affordable tiny house (the ReachOUT House), and launching a design firm specializing in technically and culturally complex projects (the International Development Collaborative). This is her second rally!
After so much work “in the field” she knows firsthand the critical importance of preserving our environment by empowering local people. Lyndsey is honored to serve Rally for Rangers as a rider and to meet the rangers who are doing the truly demanding work of protecting our natural resources.
Domenic DeVincenzi
Starting with an old Honda XR100 on a Northern California ranch, Domenic’s thirst for adventure, freedom, and speed was born. An XR250 soon followed, and the all-important motorcycle license came shortly thereafter. From the humble XR’s, to a Harley Davidson, a couple of those orange bikes, and way too many KLR’s, Domenic has ridden 10’s of thousands of miles on various motorcycles while exploring and working to improve at every turn.
Always having had a passion for helping others and making a positive impact, Domenic eventually became a Firefighter EMT, and most recently landed at a medical drone delivery company called Zipline. Domenic would eventually spend time in Rwanda and Ghana to support the expansion of life-saving operations in those regions, and would embark on some East African mini adventures on small TVS motorcycles that wholeheartedly embodied the phrase “safety third”.
So, what do you get when you combine a passion for travel, motorcycles, and affecting positive change? The Rally for Rangers! Domenic was ecstatic when he first heard about the Rally while on the Death Valley 350 last year, and instantly knew it was something that he had to be a part of. National parks and public lands, and those that support and protect them are so vitally important, and the opportunity to assist in that mission is an honor. This is Domenic’s first Rally for Rangers.
Craig Murray
I am a longtime supporter of conservation efforts. I believe the future of our planet is a shared responsibility that we can’t take lightly. Visiting Peru in 2019, I was struck by the diverse beauty and rich cultural heritage of the land. But I was also struck by how fragile it is.
I am also a longtime lover of motorcycles and motorcycle adventures. I’ve been riding for decades. I’ve ridden through most of the United States and half of the Canadian provinces, from the Atlantic to the Pacific, Gulf of Mexico to the Arctic Ocean. On road or off, it’s the best way to see any country.
When I heard about Rally for Rangers and the work they do, I had to be part of it. What an amazing way to combine two passions into one philanthropic endeavor! I’m honored to have this opportunity to help rangers in Peru protect its precious lands.
Herbert Green
Retired, older guy who likes to travel on his 2015 BMW R1200GS. My first bike was a 1949 Harley which I got when I was 18-years old. I lived in Honolulu and enjoyed that life on a 1976 Honda 700. I lived and worked in Asia for 18-years. I rode to Alaska on my 2008 Honda Goldwing 1800. My last long ride was solo on the Trans-Labrador Highway.
Michael Iannitti
With more than 30 years of riding experience, I started riding at the age of 12 and went on to race motocross as a teenager. As soon as I could get a driver's license, I bought a motorcycle and used it to commute while I was in college for several years and have owned a bike ever since. I'm a Charter life member of the AMA and also a member of the Harley Owners Group and BMW MOA. I've lost track of the number of miles I've ridden but its surely more than 100k. I was formerly a Motorcycle Safety Foundation Ridercoach and taught many folks to ride over several years. About 5 years ago I bought my first BMW GS and have taken it on many on and off road trips. This year I participated in the GS Trophy competition and I am an alum of RawHyde Adventures training. I've done many long trips including rides from AZ to Sturgis and Milwaukee.
Off road I'm comfortable on most types of terrain, have completed sections of the AZ and NM BDR. I currently own a 2004 Honda CRF230 since new - a bike very similar to those you'll be riding on the Peru trip. Other bikes I've owned include: F700GS, HD Road King, Low Rider, Honda Shadow, Magna, Nighthawk, Ducati Multistrada. Current bike is 2017 R1200GS that I've put 20k miles on in the last few years. Very blessed that the pandemic has afforded me more riding time over the past 2 years and the fact that I've been able to visit 10 National Parks during that time.
Yogeeta Gamper
Growing up in Trinidad with an older brother who worked on motorcycles, dirt bikes, go carts and anything else with an engine made Yogi comfortable around bikes from a very early age. She travelled on the back of a motorcycle for three years in her college days and finally gifted herself a classic Yamaha Maxim for her 30th birthday and had enjoyed her motorcycles since. Although new to off road biking, she has spent many hours on the road enjoying the freedom and maneuverability of two wheels.
Yogi is an attorney in California and an avid alpine skier, hiker and horse rider. She lives with her husband and two kids in the East Bay.
Tim Burke
Upon hearing of Rally for Rangers via podcasts- I knew I was destined to join this adventure! The opportunity to participate in this great cause- AND ride a motorcycle was kismet! My motorcycle passion started with a ferocious Honda Spree Scooter- it was 50cc of pure rebellion. Evel Knievel was my childhood hero- and this was my gateway bike. I currently ride a 1961 BMW R50- and Suzuki DR650. I live in Lincoln NE- working in the wine business- I am also a host for The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride-and founder of the Cluricaun Irish Society. I am beyond honored to join the Rally for Rangers team in this journey of a lifetime. I look forward to being part of this brilliant mission to assist the park rangers of Peru.
Susan Seo
Susan discovered motorcycles relatively late, buying her first motorcycle at 28 and diving headfirst into an ever-developing passion. She went from cross-country trips on sport bikes to coaching on track before discovering dirt bikes. Whether on pavement or dirt, motorcycles have enabled her to experience remote locations and different cultures while continuing to fuel her need for adventure. You can find her traveling across the country with Heavy Enduro teaching adventure clinics and racing.
Richard Lynch
Kodie Goodwin
Kodie was born in New York but was raised splitting his time between a small town in Oregon and a suburb of Sacramento, California. He grew up playing team sports like Baseball and Basketball and picked up Lacrosse in high school and college. Between seasons he spent a considerable amount of time outdoors perusing hobbies like camping, paintballing, snowboarding, and wakeboarding.
Kodie lives in the East Bay area of California where he manages software engineering teams for a startup in San Francisco. He was first introduced to dirt bikes from a coworker who quickly became a close friend. Kodie cut his teeth riding dirt bikes in the sand dunes of Glamis and single track dirt in California.
For Kodie, street motorcycles was always a non-starter due to some serious accidents in the family. However, after living in San Francisco for a while, Kodie decided to purchase an SV650 VStrom to simplify commuting. Almost immediately, he realized how freeing it was to take longer trips on two wheels escaping the rat race of the Bay Area.
Kodie was introduced to Rally for Rangers from friends who had been on previous rallies to Mongolia and Nepal. It sounded like a dream experience and Kodie jumped on the opportunity coming out of the pandemic.
David Braun
Since discovering motorcycles as a teenager, David prefers to be called "Flash" by motorcycle folks. (Yes, there is a tale there.) During the Nixon administration, he spent seven months riding a 1971 BMW R75/5 46,000 miles through 40 of the United States and three Canadian provinces, camping with his girlfriend who rode pillion. In 1983, he and his new bride riding pillion rode from Nashville to Toronto on a 1982 BMW R80G/S to fly to Manchester, England for their honeymoon. Three months later they returned to Toronto from Frankfurt having visited much of Europe including the Isle of Man for the 1983 TT races.
With an advanced degree in electrical engineering, Flash has also worked professionally as a motorcycle mechanic and has repaired various brands and models of motorcycles. He has completely restored two sidecar outfits for personal use, a 1960 BMW R26 with a Globe GS200 sidecar and a BMW /2 "Conversion" with an R100/7 motor and Ural sidecar.
Employed by a technology company, in 1999 he moved with his family Grenoble, France. During his time in France, Flash occasionally arose early enough to take the long way to work with a ride through the French, Swiss or Italian Alps. While in France, work trips included multiple visits several Asian countries. After realizing that talking about motorcycles with work colleagues could lead to riding opportunities, he was invited on rides in Hong Kong, South Korea and Japan.
In addition to having ridden in forty-nine of the United States, he has ridden on six continents including places with challenging roads such as Lesotho, Mongolia, Senegal and Vietnam. As of late 2021 he has visited 71 countries, 47 aboard motorcycles. Flash has successfully completed several Saddlesore 1000 rides (more than one thousand miles in a day) on-road in the USA, as well as one Iron Butt Association sanctioned "Dusty Butt" ride over one thousand miles off-road in a single day in South Africa. With nearly fifty years of experience, dual-sport adventure-riding is second nature for Flash. While certainly no linguist, Flash speaks nearly enough French and Spanish to get by, a bit of German and can order beer or locate a toilet in several other languages.
Aaron Taddiken
I love to create in many many forms. What gets me up in the morning is connecting with the people in my life and actively engaging in creativity. I’m here to inspire and be inspired with my fellow humans. I’ve raised two beautiful kids who are out in the world doing beautiful things.
Elias Bikahi
Elias Bikahi became interested in participating in the Rally for Rangers after assisting with a fundraiser for fellow rider, Tom Medema. This was his third time riding out to support those preserving nature around the world - Mongolia 2015, Patagonia 2018, and Peru 2022. He's committed to supporting the rangers protecting our wild spaces by providing them with resources to support their work and our planet.
Shawn Lewis
Oliver Dunkley
Wesley Thornberry
Edwin Ochs
Aaron Taddiken
Christopher Duranowski
Bryon Majusiak
Joshua Watkins
John Nguyen
Anna Kim
Shawn Lewis
As an 8 year old I didn't eat school lunch so I could buy my first motorbike. I had no idea my early love for riding would eventuate into a mission that might do someone some good in the world in majestic places with outstanding people. This task has tested every measure of my motorsports/driving instruction background, paired with great support from blessed team members. I still pinch myself to be involved in such a beautiful endeavor that would be so much fun! I treat Rally for Rangers as a pivot or jump start to a vivid perspective of great things in life......
Oliver Dunkley
Motorcycling is in my family, and even though I and my brother was raised without them, we somehow both ended up with motorcycles being a major part of what defines us. My father used to ride dirt bikes (and race) in the army, and I have photos of my grandmother riding in WW2. Since I was 14 I knew the bike I wanted was a R1150GS Adv - big enough to travel long distances and adventurous to take me to places I have never heard of. I got my license at the earliest opportunity and have been riding daily since. I study maps during work hours (guilty) of places I wish to explore, spend hours figuring out how to mount my soft luggage, and day dream about seeing what nature, geology/geography, ecosystems/fauna the world has to offer. The motorcycling nature of RfR puts it in its own league of adventure travel.
Wesley Thornberry
Wesley is a founding member of the Rally for Rangers. Since its inception, as an avid motorcyclist, Wesley spearheaded the Rally for Rangers, raised awareness internationally about the National Parks of Mongolia, and rode in all rallies.
Wesley is the founder of Trend Digital, www.trend-digital.com, which specializes in post-production imaging services for e-commerce clothing and fashion retailers. Wesley is also a photographer, adventurer, and traveler and has documented the tribes of Omo Valley, Ethiopia, to the nomadic shamans of Mongolia. He currently lives in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia.
Edwin Ochs
I was raised on a 17,000 acre cattle ranch in Central Oregon, I am semi-retired from the wind Turbine industry and currently do handyman work around Bend Oregon. I still compete in masters, city league and nastar ski racing. I water ski, wake surf, snowmobile. ride motorcycles and race cars. I admit that my drug of choice is adrenaline and seek it out continuously. I work out 5 days a week to keep in shape so I can do the things I love to do.
Aaron Taddiken
I love to create in many many forms. What gets me up in the morning is connecting with the people in my life and actively engaging in creativity. I’m here to inspire and be inspired with my fellow humans. I’ve raised two beautiful kids who are out in the world doing beautiful things.
Christopher Duranowski
While growing up in St. Louis, Mo I found an excitement on 2 wheels on BMX bikes. This eventually caused me to be chased of the Jefferson National Expansion Monument a number of times… When I saw my late teens motorcycles were my passion and have taken me to many amazing places. From Amateur Road Racing, Moto Traveling, Adventure riding thru Baja, visiting most of the United States and currently brushing up on my Enduro skills. I have always been in my happy place on 2 wheels.
I was first introduced to Rally for rangers by dear friends of mine who are National Park Ranges and motorcyclist themselves. Immediately hearing fo the first ride they told me I had to go and it would be perfect for me. After reading about the work and the support Rally for rangers gives I knew I had to be part of it. Helping provide equipment and gear to Park Rangers to do what they love to do is an honor and the least i could do to.
Bryon Majusiak
Growing up in Reno, NV, Bryon grew up taking full advantage of the outdoors. Hiking, camping, fly fishing, and mountain biking filled Bryon’s childhood and it wasn’t until he moved to Berkeley, CA for college that he got his first taste of motorcycles. While at the University of California Berkeley, Bryon helped to build the world’s first autonomous motorcycle, Ghostrider. Working on that project got him hooked on motorcycles for life. One bike led to 2, then 3 and is currently at 9, although most don’t currently work (but will soon). In 2013 he completed an Iron Butt ride around NV and still looks for any opportunity to take on a new challenge or adventure on a motorcycle. When not spending time working on motorcycles and cars, Bryon has a real job working at a company building agricultural robots.
After watching “The Long Way Round” Bryon put Mongolia on the top of his bucket list of places to travel. It was a quick decision to join Rally for Rangers after finding out he could ride motorcycles and do something valuable for the national parks of Mongolia.
Joshua Watkins
His love for the outdoors and National Parks started at a very young age. A large part of his childhood was spent with his Grandparents at their vacation home 5 minutes from the entrance to Zion National Park in Utah. As a young kid, it was truly a magical place to explore. As an adult, he still finds himself hiking, biking, running and canyoneering in the many nooks and crannies that have rarely been seen inside the park by many people. He has a great understanding and appreciation for the rare and “finite” resources these precious places are.
Joshua, like many others, was forbidden to ride or own a motorcycle when growing up. As a result, his motorcycle education (or addiction) was obtained at a young age riding his friends’ motorcycles with flip-flop shoes and of course no helmet or other protective gear. He didn’t purchase his first motorcycle until long after he was married (and have since obtained the proper safety gear). He has however acquired a decent size fleet of bikes for himself and kids ever since.
When he heard Tom’s interview on “Adventure Rider Radio Podcast” with Jim Martin, he knew that this was the perfect way to blend two of my greatest passions (the wild outdoors and motorcycles) into a charitable and important cause. He says “I am really looking forward to being able to be part of a great mission that I believe will benefit the present and future generations to come”
John Nguyen
John is a first generation Vietnamese Canadian who grew up in Yukon, Canada. His passion for motorcycling was ignited on trips to Saigon "the city of millions of motorcycles" where he got in touch with his roots, learning more about his culture.
"There's nothing like cruising the streets of Saigon, weaving through traffic like schools of fish traversing the ocean waters"
Exploring and learning about new places and people led him to his current work providing IT services for the Inuit people in Canada's high arctic - Nunavut. Supporting indigenous people in their native lands has always proven to be meaningful in his life and he hopes the Mongolia rally will reveal the same.
Anna Kim
Anna’s first foray into the two-wheeled world had a less than auspicious start when she whiskey throttled her rental scooter onto a sidewalk during her college fall break in the Bahamas. Nevertheless, she persisted. Upon moving to San Francisco at the age of 27, she purchased a used motorcycle and for weeks practiced riding around the empty streets at dawn. Motorcycling quickly became a passion of hers and before she knew it was commuting daily on a motorcycle, spending her weekends riding the back roads of the Bay Area, and boring all her very patient non-rider friends with nonstop chatter about bikes.
Anna works in construction robotics and when she’s not exploring California on her much-loved Street Triple R and trusty WR250R enjoys cooking, SCUBA, snowboarding, camping, traveling, and hosting pig roasts. She also recently launched a wine label called “Countersteer” and is excited to be able to combine her interests in wine and motorcycling (although obviously not at the same time).
Anna knew she wanted to participate in Rally for Rangers the instant she heard about the program through friends. Her first dual sport adventure, a 2,500-mile trip along the Carretera Austral to Ushuaia, was an unforgettable experience that opened her eyes to the joys of exploring the hidden corners of the earth on two wheels. Given the positive impact motorcycles have had on her life, she is particularly inspired by the mission of Rally for Rangers —to better the lives of those who are working hard to protect Mongolia’s natural resources—and is honored to have been chosen to take part in this year’s Rally.
Oliver Dunkley
Tom Medema
Bryon Majusiak
Lance Machovsky
Anna Kim
Sarah Burch
Pradeep Kundur
Joshua Watkins
Lyndsey Deaton
Seth San Filippo
Wesley Thornberry
Oliver Dunkley
Motorcycling is in my family, and even though I and my brother was raised without them, we somehow both ended up with motorcycles being a major part of what defines us. My father used to ride dirt bikes (and race) in the army, and I have photos of my grandmother riding in WW2. Since I was 14 I knew the bike I wanted was a R1150GS Adv - big enoguh to travel long distances and adventurous to take me to places I have never heard of. I got my license at the earliest opportunity and have been riding daily since. I study maps during work hours (guilty) of places I wish to explore, spend hours figuring out how to mount my soft luggage, and day dream about seeing what nature, geology/geography, ecosystems/fauna the world has to offer. The motorcycling nature of RfR puts it in its own league of adventure travel.
Tom Medema
Tom Medema developed a passion for national parks at a young age on family vacations throughout the American west. This passion turned into a career as a park ranger spanning nearly 30 years. Tom is equally passionate about national parks and public lands around the world and has worked with parks and monuments in South America and Europe as a subject matter expert in the field of interpretation and education. The opportunity to support the protection of natural and cultural heritage of parks and protected areas around the world is an opportunity he is excited and humbled to be a part of.
Tom is a sports and outdoor enthusiast, spending much of his free time enjoying two-wheeled travel by mountain bike, road bike, and motorbike. Over the past 20 years he has owned Harley-Davidson and BMW bikes and is currently riding an F800GS on the back roads and trails of Maryland, Virginia and West Virginia in preparation for the next epic and compelling adventure protecting the worlds special places one motorcycle at a time.
Bryon Majusiak
Growing up in Reno, NV, Bryon grew up taking full advantage of the outdoors. Hiking, camping, fly fishing, and mountain biking filled Bryon’s childhood and it wasn’t until he moved to Berkeley, CA for college that he got his first taste of motorcycles. While at the University of California Berkeley, Bryon helped to build the world’s first autonomous motorcycle, Ghostrider. Working on that project got him hooked on motorcycles for life. One bike led to 2, then 3 and is currently at 9, although most don’t currently work (but will soon). In 2013 he completed an Iron Butt ride around NV and still looks for any opportunity to take on a new challenge or adventure on a motorcycle.
When not spending time working on motorcycles and cars, Bryon has a real job working at a company building agricultural robots.
After watching “The Long Way Round” Bryon put Mongolia on the top of his bucket list of places to travel. It was a quick decision to join Rally for Rangers after finding out he could ride motorcycles and do something valuable for the national parks of Mongolia.
Lance Machovsky
Lance was born to be an adventurer. Early days in Minnesota with a pack of cousins on mini-bikes and fishing skiffs kindled a life-long love of the outdoors and passion for two-wheeled travel. Fishing led to climbing and after a stint in the Navy he became serious about alpinism. Climbing and skiing led to work as a guide in the US, Europe and Latin America. “I’ve been fortunate to spend time in so many wild places around the world. Preserving and protecting them for future generations is really important to me.” A 2004 trail ride down the Baja 1000 route cemented offroad enduro riding as his new passion.
“Some of my outdoorsy friends assumed that off-roading ran counter to conservation and stewardship of wild lands. My friend Kacey Smith, avid Baja rider and guidebook author calls herself a tree hugging dirt biker. That could be a tagline for Rally for Rangers!” Naturally, when Lance heard about the Rally for Rangers, he signed up immediately. Lance rode in the 2017 rally to Otgontenger and is excited to return to Mongolia in 2018. “Mongolia is one of those places that exists in our imaginations as the embodiment of wild and untamed. It’s worth saving.” Lance invites you to join this grass roots movement, where the simple gift of some little motorcycles pays such exponential dividends.
Anna Kim
Anna’s first foray into the two-wheeled world had a less than auspicious start when she whiskey throttled her rental scooter onto a sidewalk during her college fall break in the Bahamas. Nevertheless, she persisted. Upon moving to San Francisco at the age of 27, she purchased a used motorcycle and for weeks practiced riding around the empty streets at dawn. Motorcycling quickly became a passion of hers and before she knew it was commuting daily on a motorcycle, spending her weekends riding the back roads of the Bay Area, and boring all her very patient non-rider friends with nonstop chatter about bikes.
Anna works in construction robotics and when she’s not exploring California on her much-loved Street Triple R and trusty WR250R enjoys cooking, SCUBA, snowboarding, camping, traveling, and hosting pig roasts. She also recently launched a wine label called “Countersteer” and is excited to be able to combine her interests in wine and motorcycling (although obviously not at the same time).
Anna knew she wanted to participate in Rally for Rangers the instant she heard about the program through friends. Her first dual sport adventure, a 2,500-mile trip along the Carretera Austral to Ushuaia, was an unforgettable experience that opened her eyes to the joys of exploring the hidden corners of the earth on two wheels. Given the positive impact motorcycles have had on her life, she is particularly inspired by the mission of Rally for Rangers —to better the lives of those who are working hard to protect Mongolia’s natural resources—and is honored to have been chosen to take part in this year’s Rally.
Sarah Burch
Sarah was first introduced to motorcycles by her dad and dirt biking at summer camp. She was finally able to get her license after college and her first bike was a 2005 Suzuki GS500. Since then she’s had a 2016 Kawasaki Ninja 650 ABS, a 2015 Yamaha FZ07, and is currently sitting on a 2001 Ducati Monster 900.
She grew up the oldest of five kids and the daughter of two wonderful parents. They taught them the power of curiosity, expression, and independence – all things riding provides. It’s no wonder she started ‘Between The Legs: A Moto Podcast’! Most recently Sarah and her dad built out a 2019 Ram Promaster 2500 to drive her bike across the country this summer. Fun fact: she welded her own ramps! While living/working in it, she’s travelled up the East Coast, across to Chicago, down to San Diego, and is now making her way up the West Coast.
Sarah’s looking forward to the challenge Mongolia’s riding environment will bring to her. While dirt and off-road aren’t her forte, she’s had experience with American Supercamp and other programs to set some foundations. Most of all she’s looking forward to supporting a unique community and its wildlife through Rally for Rangers.
Pradeep Kundur
Pradeep aspires to be close to nature and spend time outdoors. Motorcycling is one of his favorite activities. Getting together with friends, cooking food and camping, riding long stretches on the bike keeps him at the moment. The only other activity which consumes a lot of his time is watching motorcycling movies, clips and reviews. He likes to read inspirational books and listen to Moto podcasts.
Outside motorcycling, he enjoys quiet time by involving himself in Meditation and Pranayama. Hiking with his dog “Fudo” and his wife is also his favorite pastime.
As for food, he enjoys various cuisines – both cooking and savoring. He is a pescatarian.
His best ride to date has been the Himalayan Adventure and has a lot of plans to do Backcountry discovery rides this year. Pradeep has been riding motorcycles for the past 30 years, but most of his youth was riding on 100cc bikes, and one day took the steep jump to a Harley nightster. After a couple of Harley bikes, he bought a Moto Guzzi for long-distance touring and Yamaha T7 for offroads. His recent foray has been into dirt trails on his Kawasaki KLX300.
As part of his initiative to give something back to Nature, he got associated with Rally for Rangers.
His day job is managing computer applications, so he is up for anything that takes him away from his desk.
Joshua Watkins
His love for the outdoors and National Parks started at a very young age. A large part of his childhood was spent with his Grandparents at their vacation home 5 minutes from the entrance to Zion National Park in Utah. As a young kid, it was truly a magical place to explore. As an adult, he still finds himself hiking, biking, running and canyoneering in the many nooks and crannies that have rarely been seen inside the park by many people. He has a great understanding and appreciation for the rare and “finite” resources these precious places are.
Joshua, like many others, was forbidden to ride or own a motorcycle when growing up. As a result, his motorcycle education (or addiction) was obtained at a young age riding his friends’ motorcycles with flip-flop shoes and of course no helmet or other protective gear. He didn’t purchase his first motorcycle until long after he was married (and have since obtained the proper safety gear). He has however acquired a decent size fleet of bikes for himself and kids ever since.
When he heard Tom’s interview on “Adventure Rider Radio Podcast” with Jim Martin, he knew that this was the perfect way to blend two of my greatest passions (the wild outdoors and motorcycles) into a charitable and important cause. He says “I am really looking forward to being able to be part of a great mission that I believe will benefit the present and future generations to come”
Lyndsey Deaton
Starstruck by dirt bikers jumping on a nearby course while on a family vacation to the Grand Canyon, Lyndsey knew from an early age that motorcycles were in her future. At 14, and much to the surprise of her parents, she negotiated with passion at a swap meet and brought home a 1970 Yamaha YZ250 without ever having been on a bike before. It proved to be too much of a “starter” bike, but she persisted. She traded it for a Kawasaki KX125 that would open the gateway of two-wheeled adventures for many years to come.
Fast forward to 2017 and Lyndsey was living in India – the 80th country that she has explored – riding a Royal Enfield Classic on weekend trips and a Honda Activa through the hectic daily traffic of downtown Hyderabad. An architect by day, she worked with underrepresented groups such as children and women on sustainable housing in her “other job” as a researcher. Lyndsey has collaborated with communities in the US, the Philippines, Uganda, Japan, Chile, Germany, Saudi Arabia, and Oman. Today, she is back in Eugene, Oregon finishing up her doctoral studies and riding her dual sport BMW GS650 on interstate trips as well as logging trails. She usually has a few side projects in the works that marry her professional and personal passions such as founding a tequila distillery (Casaquila), building an affordable tiny house (the ReachOUT House), and launching a design and construction firm specializing in technically and culturally complex projects (the International Development Collaborative).
After so much work “in the field” she knows firsthand the critical importance of preserving our environment by empowering local people. Lyndsey is honored to serve Rally for Rangers as a rider and to meet the rangers who are doing the truly demanding work of protecting our natural resources.
Seth San Filippo
Seth San Filippo has had a lifelong passion for motorcycles from a young age. He started on a super cool Mickey Thompson mini bike (that he still has and rides), and quickly graduated to dirt bikes—forming sketchy jumps, scars, and the two-member “Daredevil Club” with his cousin Everest.
Nowadays, Seth might be found roaming the logging roads and trails on a long Oregon summer day looking for abandoned fire lookouts on his KLR650. In the winter, he may be in Baja, Mexico with his DRZ400 in search of stellar desert riding, spearfishing, and delicious tacos. In between he could be in a vintage enduro race on his 74’ Suzuki TS250, blowing off steam leaning into the back road corners on his Harley Springer, or competing in the one-day, 100-mile, off-road, Gambler mini bike rally.
Maybe he has been called the “crazy cat lady of motorcycles” because he has six of them in the garage, but maybe there is still room for one more. After all, there are seven days in a week…
Basically, Seth is happiest and feels the most alive and free on two wheels in far away places, with music in his helmet speakers and his soul singing. So when he heard about Rally For Rangers on his favorite podcast, Adventure Rider Radio, the cause and the adventure called to him. Seth is beyond excited and honored to be a part of the team and to do his part to help protect the wild places that he cherishes so much.
When Seth is not out adventuring on a motorcycle or with his amazing kids Finn (14) and Anna (12), he is very busy as the owner of Urban Lumber Co. (urbanlumber.co) and Urban Hardwoods (urbanhardwoods.com) where he and his crew build beautiful custom furniture from salvaged city trees of the Pacific Northwest.
Wesley Thornberry
Wesley is a founding member of the Rally for Rangers. Since its inception, as an avid motorcyclist, Wesley spearheaded the Rally for Rangers, raised awareness internationally about the National Parks of Mongolia, and rode in all rallies.
Wesley is the founder of Trend Digital, www.trend-digital.com, which specializes in post-production imaging services for e-commerce clothing and fashion retailers. Wesley is also a photographer, adventurer, and traveler and has documented the tribes of Omo Valley, Ethiopia, to the nomadic shamans of Mongolia. He currently lives in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia.
Wesley Thornberry
Tom Medema
Mike Ferrell
Paul Pennell
Bryon Majusiak
Anna Kim
Mike Kennan
Chuck Flinton
Jacob Goldstein
Charles Ross
Lior Lifshitz
Robert McGill
Asher Woolverton
Nelson (Kathleen) Corcoras
Wesley Thornberry
Wesley is a founding member of the Rally for Rangers. Since its inception, as an avid motorcyclist, Wesley spearheaded the Rally for Rangers, raised awareness internationally about the National Parks of Mongolia, and rode in all rallies.
Wesley is the founder of Trend Digital, www.trend-digital.com, which specializes in post-production imaging services for e-commerce clothing and fashion retailers. Wesley is also a photographer, adventurer, and traveler and has documented the tribes of Omo Valley, Ethiopia, to the nomadic shamans of Mongolia. He currently lives in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia.
Tom Medema
Tom Medema developed a passion for national parks at a young age on family vacations throughout the American west. This passion turned into a career as a park ranger spanning nearly 30 years. Tom is equally passionate about national parks and public lands around the world and has worked with parks and monuments in South America and Europe as a subject matter expert in the field of interpretation and education. The opportunity to support the protection of natural and cultural heritage of parks and protected areas around the world is an opportunity he is excited and humbled to be a part of.
Tom is a sports and outdoor enthusiast, spending much of his free time enjoying two-wheeled travel by mountain bike, road bike, and motorbike. Over the past 20 years he has owned Harley-Davidson and BMW bikes and is currently riding an F800GS on the back roads and trails of Maryland, Virginia and West Virginia in preparation for the next epic and compelling adventure protecting the worlds special places one motorcycle at a time.
Mike Ferrell
Mike Ferrell is from Raleigh, NC and works in marketing for Lenovo. He’s also studying broadcast journalism at the School of Media and Journalism at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
Mike’s been fascinated with motorcycles since he was young but has only been riding the past eight years. His first bike was a Buell Blast, and after year of riding and learning, he upgraded to a Ducati 09’ GT1000 – a bike he still rides today. His passion for Ducati grew and in 2016 purchased a 10’ Multistrada 1200 ST for commuting and adventuring. Last summer, Mike and a buddy rode their motorcycles almost 5,000 miles in 11 days across 15 states, visiting several national parks.
Rally for Rangers is an incredible opportunity to combine many of Mike’s passions: traveling on two wheels, protecting natural resources and learning about other people and cultures. A moto journey across Mongolia is a once in a lifetime adventure and he feels honored to contribute to such a great cause – the rangers of Altai Tavan Bogd National Park.
Paul Pennell
Paul was instilled with a love for the outdoors and public lands at a young age. He grew up hunting, fishing, and operating off-road vehicles with his father. These pursuits were put on the back burner during college and his twenties- sometimes life gets in the way. With a new career and more personal freedom, he’s ready to fully pursue these interests again and is excited to help others care for the great outdoors.
Paul currently takes frequent trips on his Triumph Street Scrambler to the mountains of North Carolina to enjoy “the twisties” and hammock camp with other riders. He is chasing the goal of visiting every U.S. National Park, either by motorcycle or in his Jeep. He is also getting more active in the overlanding community, volunteering at Overland Expos on both sides of the country.
Bryon Majusiak
Growing up in Reno, NV, Bryon grew up taking full advantage of the outdoors. Hiking, camping, fly fishing, and mountain biking filled Bryon’s childhood and it wasn’t until he moved to Berkeley, CA for college that he got his first taste of motorcycles. While at the University of California Berkeley, Bryon helped to build the world’s first autonomous motorcycle, Ghostrider. Working on that project got him hooked on motorcycles for life. One bike led to 2, then 3 and is currently at 9, although most don’t currently work (but will soon). In 2013 he completed an Iron Butt ride around NV and still looks for any opportunity to take on a new challenge or adventure on a motorcycle.
When not spending time working on motorcycles and cars, Bryon has a real job working at a company building agricultural robots.
After watching “The Long Way Round” Bryon put Mongolia on the top of his bucket list of places to travel. It was a quick decision to join Rally for Rangers after finding out he could ride motorcycles and do something valuable for the national parks of Mongolia.
Anna Kim
Anna’s first foray into the two-wheeled world had a less than auspicious start when she whiskey throttled her rental scooter onto a sidewalk during her college fall break in the Bahamas. Nevertheless, she persisted. Upon moving to San Francisco at the age of 27, she purchased a used motorcycle and for weeks practiced riding around the empty streets at dawn. Motorcycling quickly became a passion of hers and before she knew it was commuting daily on a motorcycle, spending her weekends riding the back roads of the Bay Area, and boring all her very patient non-rider friends with nonstop chatter about bikes.
Anna works in construction robotics and when she’s not exploring California on her much-loved Street Triple R and trusty WR250R enjoys cooking, SCUBA, snowboarding, camping, traveling, and hosting pig roasts. She also recently launched a wine label called “Countersteer” and is excited to be able to combine her interests in wine and motorcycling (although obviously not at the same time).
Anna knew she wanted to participate in Rally for Rangers the instant she heard about the program through friends. Her first dual sport adventure, a 2,500-mile trip along the Carretera Austral to Ushuaia, was an unforgettable experience that opened her eyes to the joys of exploring the hidden corners of the earth on two wheels. Given the positive impact motorcycles have had on her life, she is particularly inspired by the mission of Rally for Rangers —to better the lives of those who are working hard to protect Mongolia’s natural resources—and is honored to have been chosen to take part in this year’s Rally.
Mike Kennan
Originally from the east coast, Mike is a freelance engineer based in Oakland, CA. He’s spent his entire career designing, building, and working with machines of all types. He thinks riding a motorcycle is the by far best way to enjoy the beautiful weather and majestic landscapes of California.
Mike Kennan heard about the Rally for Rangers from riders that did it in previous years and he’s extremely excited to be a part of the ride in 2018. In addition to the excitement of having the opportunity to ride a motorcycle across some of the most amazing terrain in the world, it’s a unique opportunity to help protect this same area before it gets developed or otherwise spoiled. As someone from the West, he thinks they have a limited appreciation for how things work in developing nations. While it’s good that a government can make laws, it doesn’t matter if no one is able enforce those laws. This is a chance to give the rangers the tools they need to help protect this ancient landscape.
Chuck Flinton
Charles “Chuck” Flinton is a forensic psychologist living in the San Francisco Bay Area. Patagonia is his second “Rally for Rangers” outing. Raised in Saratoga Springs, New York, he became an early fan of state parks. Having ridden a motorcycle in every state except Louisiana and Alaska, he became enamored with gifts of nature. Over the years, he became aware of the threats to our environment, and the importance of protecting it. This starts with preserving national parks both locally and around the world.
When the opportunity arose to assist in providing motorcycles to the park rangers in Mongolia in 2015, he signed up immediately. The motorcycles empowered park rangers to access areas of the park more quickly and safely.
Protecting our environment against corporate forces and un-informed individuals is a mountainous obstacle. We can climb it together with education and providing resources to those at the forefront of protecting nature. Specifically, our PARK RANGERS!
On a more personal note, many years ago, Chuck was immobilized with pain due to ankylosing spondylitis (a spine and joint disease) forcing him to give up riding motorcycles. With the help of friends and science, the ride continues. So, in addition to promoting national parks, Chuck promotes the awareness that anyone (or any community) can overcome challenges on any level (personal, local, or global). Let’s save ourselves while we protect our parks.
Jacob Goldstein
Jacob was born and raised in a small historic mining town called Grass Valley, located in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada’s in California. He grew up in the outdoors primarily skiing and mountain biking, and generally exploring all across the country in his Toyota Tacoma. These last couple of years he’s been on the dirt bike a lot more, and has always dreamed of doing an epic cross country trip on a motorcycle. For work, Jacob is a mechanical engineer for an Ag-Tech company called Blue River Technology, where they’re using computer vision, deep learning, and smart machines to revolutionize the way we spray chemicals and treat plants in agriculture.
Charles Ross
He fell in love with dirt-biking while in college on the central coast of California. Charles spent much of his free time learning to repair and maintain everything from gold wings to scooters. Recently he has been spending most of his spare weekends journeying into the forests of northern California in search of spectacular and challenging trails.
Growing up Charles had lots of opportunity to travel the world, and got to experience amazing places. He also developed a deep respect for our plant’s natural beauty while traveling to countless state and national parks across the united states. Now he wants to make a difference wherever he goes, so this opportunity is everything he could ever ask for.
Lior Lifshitz
Lior is a proud father of three daughters and was born in Israel in a city near Tel Aviv. Lior went on the regular track of an Israeli boy including school and scouts and join the Israeli IDF and served as an officer. Lior has an entrepreneurial spirit coupled with deep management and investment experience in various companies and fields. Few milestones in his career were: Executive Chairman at SAIPS, acquired by Ford Motor Company,Executive Chairman at Secure Dimensions acquired by Microsoft,Co-Founder and Managing Partner at Jerusalem Capital VC, Founder and CEO of ProSeed VC .
Beside his work career Lior has and adventures spirit and he volunteers in the Israeli Police as a Road Motorcyclist in a special unit and serves as a member of an International Search and Rescue Team (Rescue One) and was in one of the first teams which arrived to Nepal after the last earthquake and helped rescue local and foreign people from the mountains.
Lior also does long solo motorcycle trips around the world and his last one was on 2018, around the black sea (12,000 km in two months).
Robert McGill
Retired and lives in Portland, Oregon. Rides motorcycles as often as possible, especially in foreign locations.
Asher Woolverton
Asher has always loved two wheels, from the elementary school years when the lot next door was a perfect BMX course to his first ambitious multi-state solo motorcycle tour on a 1990 Honda TransAlp.
He was born in Ghana into a missionary family and every day as a young boy seemed filled with adventure even in the backyard. The early influence of his father and friends with their small displacement motorcycles sowed the seeds in Asher for a later passion for motorcycle travel. Most of his teenage years were spent growing up in Colorado Springs with an ease for math and physics which eventually led to degrees in Engineering Physics and Materials Science degrees from the Colorado School of Mines in Golden. He co-founded his environmental club during high school and continued to volunteer on ecology supporting projects throughout college and after graduate school.
His passion for engineering has been seriously rivaled by the passion for travel and camping, either by two wheels or by four. He only recently discovered that there is an entire community of overland travelers who not only enjoy off road travel, but also are mindful of the local ecology and wildlife. His other passions include music, food and a love for the visual arts. He currently lives in Broomfield, Colorado.
Nelson (Kathleen) Corcoras
Neslon grew up in RI, where she attended Brown University, studying fine arts and running competitively. All that changed after a summer of trail work in the French Alps…. she had fallen in love with the mountains! Goodbye east coast, hello Rocky Mountains! She moved out to Colorado, bought her first mountain bike and never looked back. And so began her passion for two wheels. Racing throughout the west she eventually placed fifth in the national off road championships.
Her love for adventure brought her next to the mountains of Alaska, riding the frozen rivers, working for Wrangell St. Elias Nat’l Park and building a little cabin in the woods. Then off to Antarctica, riding the frozen ocean, skiing the ice shelf, and working at the U.S. station there. She eventually landed back in the mountains of Colorado, ready for yet another adventure.
Enter Adventure Motorcycling….. Mountain biking with power. Her first bike was a CRF230, her 40th birthday present to herself. That little bike took her all over the West and across the Trans American Trail. The next bike was a Harley Sportster, which she’d just as soon forget. At present she rides a KLX250 and a G650 Sertao, the perfect bike for exploring crazy technical trails around Moab and the windy dirt roads and passes of the west. Her passion gets her out riding and camping three days a week in the summer and fall with her boyfriend (the unofficial bike picker-upper).
This passion for riding and love of the mountains and wild remote places gives Nelson a deep appreciation for the mission of Rally for Rangers. Get those bikes out there and save those beautiful wild places!!
Just a note… she is not one faceted. She’s also partial to knitting, reading historical fiction, soaking in hot springs, cooking delicious soups, hiking, laughing, avocados and sweet potatoes, swimming, dancing to loud music, dark beer, telemark and skate skiing, hot tea, and standing in a cold stream at the end of a long ride.
Wesley Thornberry
Tom Medema
Bryon Majusiak
Lance Machovsky
Anna Kim
Peter Emerson
Candace Hateley
Larry Krupa
Anne Elizabeth (Beth) Williams
Jeff Zielinski
Jake Szympruch
Wesley Thornberry
Wesley is a founding member of the Rally for Rangers. Since its inception, as an avid motorcyclist, Wesley spearheaded the Rally for Rangers, raised awareness internationally about the National Parks of Mongolia, and rode in all rallies.
Wesley is the founder of Trend Digital, www.trend-digital.com, which specializes in post-production imaging services for e-commerce clothing and fashion retailers. Wesley is also a photographer, adventurer, and traveler and has documented the tribes of Omo Valley, Ethiopia, to the nomadic shamans of Mongolia. He currently lives in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia.
Tom Medema
Tom Medema developed a passion for national parks at a young age on family vacations throughout the American west. This passion turned into a career as a park ranger spanning nearly 30 years. Tom is equally passionate about national parks and public lands around the world and has worked with parks and monuments in South America and Europe as a subject matter expert in the field of interpretation and education. The opportunity to support the protection of natural and cultural heritage of parks and protected areas around the world is an opportunity he is excited and humbled to be a part of.
Tom is a sports and outdoor enthusiast, spending much of his free time enjoying two-wheeled travel by mountain bike, road bike, and motorbike. Over the past 20 years he has owned Harley-Davidson and BMW bikes and is currently riding an F800GS on the back roads and trails of Maryland, Virginia and West Virginia in preparation for the next epic and compelling adventure protecting the worlds special places one motorcycle at a time.
Bryon Majusiak
Growing up in Reno, NV, Bryon grew up taking full advantage of the outdoors. Hiking, camping, fly fishing, and mountain biking filled Bryon’s childhood and it wasn’t until he moved to Berkeley, CA for college that he got his first taste of motorcycles. While at the University of California Berkeley, Bryon helped to build the world’s first autonomous motorcycle, Ghostrider. Working on that project got him hooked on motorcycles for life. One bike led to 2, then 3 and is currently at 9, although most don’t currently work (but will soon). In 2013 he completed an Iron Butt ride around NV and still looks for any opportunity to take on a new challenge or adventure on a motorcycle.
When not spending time working on motorcycles and cars, Bryon has a real job working at a company building agricultural robots.
After watching “The Long Way Round” Bryon put Mongolia on the top of his bucket list of places to travel. It was a quick decision to join Rally for Rangers after finding out he could ride motorcycles and do something valuable for the national parks of Mongolia.
Lance Machovsky
Lance was born to be an adventurer. Early days in Minnesota with a pack of cousins on mini-bikes and fishing skiffs kindled a life-long love of the outdoors and passion for two-wheeled travel. Fishing led to climbing and after a stint in the Navy he became serious about alpinism. Climbing and skiing led to work as a guide in the US, Europe and Latin America. “I’ve been fortunate to spend time in so many wild places around the world. Preserving and protecting them for future generations is really important to me.” A 2004 trail ride down the Baja 1000 route cemented offroad enduro riding as his new passion.
“Some of my outdoorsy friends assumed that off-roading ran counter to conservation and stewardship of wild lands. My friend Kacey Smith, avid Baja rider and guidebook author calls herself a tree hugging dirt biker. That could be a tagline for Rally for Rangers!” Naturally, when Lance heard about the Rally for Rangers, he signed up immediately. Lance rode in the 2017 rally to Otgontenger and is excited to return to Mongolia in 2018. “Mongolia is one of those places that exists in our imaginations as the embodiment of wild and untamed. It’s worth saving.” Lance invites you to join this grass roots movement, where the simple gift of some little motorcycles pays such exponential dividends.
Anna Kim
Anna’s first foray into the two-wheeled world had a less than auspicious start when she whiskey throttled her rental scooter onto a sidewalk during her college fall break in the Bahamas. Nevertheless, she persisted. Upon moving to San Francisco at the age of 27, she purchased a used motorcycle and for weeks practiced riding around the empty streets at dawn. Motorcycling quickly became a passion of hers and before she knew it was commuting daily on a motorcycle, spending her weekends riding the back roads of the Bay Area, and boring all her very patient non-rider friends with nonstop chatter about bikes.
Anna works in construction robotics and when she’s not exploring California on her much-loved Street Triple R and trusty WR250R enjoys cooking, SCUBA, snowboarding, camping, traveling, and hosting pig roasts. She also recently launched a wine label called “Countersteer” and is excited to be able to combine her interests in wine and motorcycling (although obviously not at the same time).
Anna knew she wanted to participate in Rally for Rangers the instant she heard about the program through friends. Her first dual sport adventure, a 2,500-mile trip along the Carretera Austral to Ushuaia, was an unforgettable experience that opened her eyes to the joys of exploring the hidden corners of the earth on two wheels. Given the positive impact motorcycles have had on her life, she is particularly inspired by the mission of Rally for Rangers —to better the lives of those who are working hard to protect Mongolia’s natural resources—and is honored to have been chosen to take part in this year’s Rally.
Peter Emerson
Pete has been riding motorcycles since he was a teenager. From minibikes to Harleys to dual-sports he is always looking for a new adventure. He works as a Physical Therapist in his own private practice helping people with neck and back pain and always wants to expand the scope of helping others. Rally for Rangers provides him with this once in a lifetime experience combining a passion and a challenge with a true purpose.
Pete Has 2 children, Gigi and Jack. Gigi just got her motorcycle endorsement and hopes to go on these trips in the future. Jack is currently finishing his 1st year at Colorado State University. He wouldn’t be able to do this trip if he didn’t have the total support of his girlfriend Kelly. She is also and adventure rider and hopes to go on a future Rally with Pete.
Along with his private practice Pete owns a private Gym and practices Martial Arts on a regular basis. Having the Colorado Foothills in his back yard provides the perfect training ground to get ready for the challenge of this ride.
Pete considers this ride as “A Challenge with a Purpose” Being able to provide these Rangers with the much-needed means to patrol the vast lands of Mongolia is the least he could do to help preserve the environment for the next generation.
Candace Hateley
Candace is a lifelong motorcyclist. With the help of family and friends, she has experienced riding in diverse settings and disciplines. A three time women’s division endure champion, she collected trophies from racing events like the original Bar stow to Vegas Hare and Hound, Widow maker Hill climb, Women’s Motocross Nationals and many more. The few years she worked as an artist and photographer for a motorcycle magazine expanded her motorcycling world and introduced her to the wonderful people who are part of it.
Candace has been checking boxes on a lifelong motorcycling to-do list and as she nears her 50th year of riding, her list includes Rally for Rangers. Like all of the to-do list items, it will bring people and motorcycles together, but in a way that will accomplish something special.
Candace is a vegan, a technology trainer, and the wife of a motorcycle hero, with two sons and a new grandson waiting to grow into his PW50. She plans to be a centenarian like her grandmother so she can keep checking off those motorcycling to-do list boxes. Still unchecked boxes are: ride her Triumph to Alaska, visit Isle of Man during the TT and more.
Larry Krupa
Larry is a retired businessman, father to three sons, three grandsons and a granddaughter, all of which he is extremely proud. He lives in Atlanta Georgia with his wife of 42 years, Julie, a successful research scientist. After retiring, Larry was able to pursue his passion for adventure motorcycle travel. Two days after his last day at work, he left on a cross country moto trip that was 85% off pavement, including gravel or dirt roads, dirt trails, mountains and deserts. Other trips have included travel from Atlanta to Mexico and Canada, as well as a trip to ride in Australia.
Larry has always needed activities or challenging hobbies in which he could get deeply immersed. Sometimes the challenges have been physical in nature such as adventure motorcycling, endurance mountain biking, marathons, triathlons, backpacking and mountain climbing. Some challenges are more mentally stimulating such as photography, drone photography and video, fly fishing and reading. Currently enjoying a photography business he began after retiring, Larry spends his free time motorcycling and continually trying to improve his photography and drone skills. With a geographically dispersed family, he spends lot of his travel time visiting his sons and their families.
Anne Elizabeth (Beth) Williams
Beth grew up in rural, eastern NC, surrounded by tobacco farms, and as a bit of a tomboy, spent much of her childhood exploring the fields, woods and swamps there. She developed a taste for the exotic early on through her culturally inquisitive and open-minded parents. Friends from India introduced her to the rich tastes and textiles of their country and sparked an interest in the way other people live, and a family trip to Italy awakened a curious and adventurous spirit (as well as a life-long love of good coffee.) While studying architecture at NCSU, Beth kept her newly discovered love of motorcycling a secret from her family. She also downplayed the dangerous nature of her other passion, rock-climbing, and embraced the chance to spend weekends camping and climbing in the NC and VA mountains. During a 5 year stint working and living in Sendai, Japan, Beth explored much of SE Asia while traveling solo, seeking out the more remote parts of northern India, the Philippines, Vietnam, Thailand and Malaysia. Beth returned to motorcycling after a 29 year hiatus and searches out opportunities to improve her skills and build community with like-minded motorcyclists. She continues to explore the world, both near and far, from her perch on her pegs. She is deeply interested in learning about and preserving the natural environment and cultures of our planet.
Jeff Zielinski
Like many riders, Jeff’s passion for two wheels and a motor started with a 50cc minibike. The moment he hopped on that little Honda he was hooked. Growing up in the country, and growing in and out of a handful of bikes he quickly realized that a motorcycle isn’t only an exhilarating mode of transportation, but it’s the perfect partner for an adventurous curiosity. Fast forward to 2015 when that curiosity pushed him to reach out to his lifelong friend to plan a coast to coast motorcycle trip across the United States. And what better path to take than the Trans America Trail. Two BMW 800 GS’s, 17 states, 6300 miles, numerous national parks and forests, and countless memories later they completed the trip in Santa Monica, CA. You can read more about that trip at MojoMoto.org.
As a career creative and co-owner of a marketing agency in Rochester, NY Jeff knows the value of a genuine brand and a good story. When he learned of Rally for Rangers he recognized both of those qualities and was intrigued to say the least. RFR combines many of the things he craves. Travel, protecting the environment and the animals that inhabit it, and well…motorcycles. Add to that a challenging ride and the comradely between a handful of riders with similar interests and you have one hell of an experience. Jeff’s extremely honored and grateful to be part of the 2019 ride through Mongolia.
Jake Szympruch
Jake’s interest in the outdoors began with family camping trips to state parks and has become his life long passion. As an adult he earned a college degree in environmental studies, working as a whitewater river guide during the summers. When it was time to get a job which actually paid the bills, he signed on as a ranger to protect the wild places he was enjoying. He now has 20 years experience working as a ranger.
In his free time, Jake is still a whitewater rafter but in recent years he has developed a passion for adventure motorcycle riding. It was actually whitewater rafting which led to Jake becoming an adventure rider. While healing from a river accident, he decided to try a safer recreational activity, motorcycle riding. A few months after buying his first street bike, he was strapping camping gear on the back to visit national parks but he was left feeling like there was more to see. Realizing he needed a more adventure oriented machine, he acquired a beat up KLR650 and learned to ride off road. He still rides the well worn KLR along with a KTM 1190R. His adventure travels have taken him across the
United States, to the Canadian Arctic, Guatemala, India, Patagonia and most recently, Morocco.
In the spring of 2018, Jake read an article about the Rally for Rangers Foundation. Knowing first hand the challenges of protecting remote areas and having seen the difficult conditions rangers work in across the world, he committed himself to helping his fellow rangers
Wesley Thornberry
Lance Machovsky
Bryon Majusiak
Wes Paz
John Gommans
Jeff Thresher
Mike Patak
Jessica Lewis
Paul Pennell
Batjargal Khandjav
Anna Kim
Mike Ferrell
Tom Medema
Wesley Thornberry
Wesley is a founding member of the Rally for Rangers. Since its inception, as an avid motorcyclist, Wesley spearheaded the Rally for Rangers, raised awareness internationally about the National Parks of Mongolia, and rode in all rallies.
Wesley is the founder of Trend Digital, www.trend-digital.com, which specializes in post-production imaging services for e-commerce clothing and fashion retailers. Wesley is also a photographer, adventurer, and traveler and has documented the tribes of Omo Valley, Ethiopia, to the nomadic shamans of Mongolia. He currently lives in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia.
Lance Machovsky
Lance was born to be an adventurer. Early days in Minnesota with a pack of cousins on mini-bikes and fishing skiffs kindled a life-long love of the outdoors and passion for two-wheeled travel. Fishing led to climbing and after a stint in the Navy he became serious about alpinism. Climbing and skiing led to work as a guide in the US, Europe and Latin America. “I’ve been fortunate to spend time in so many wild places around the world. Preserving and protecting them for future generations is really important to me.” A 2004 trail ride down the Baja 1000 route cemented offroad enduro riding as his new passion.
“Some of my outdoorsy friends assumed that off-roading ran counter to conservation and stewardship of wild lands. My friend Kacey Smith, avid Baja rider and guidebook author calls herself a tree hugging dirt biker. That could be a tagline for Rally for Rangers!” Naturally, when Lance heard about the Rally for Rangers, he signed up immediately. Lance rode in the 2017 rally to Otgontenger and is excited to return to Mongolia in 2018. “Mongolia is one of those places that exists in our imaginations as the embodiment of wild and untamed. It’s worth saving.” Lance invites you to join this grass roots movement, where the simple gift of some little motorcycles pays such exponential dividends.
Bryon Majusiak
Growing up in Reno, NV, Bryon grew up taking full advantage of the outdoors. Hiking, camping, fly fishing, and mountain biking filled Bryon’s childhood and it wasn’t until he moved to Berkeley, CA for college that he got his first taste of motorcycles. While at the University of California Berkeley, Bryon helped to build the world’s first autonomous motorcycle, Ghostrider. Working on that project got him hooked on motorcycles for life. One bike led to 2, then 3 and is currently at 9, although most don’t currently work (but will soon). In 2013 he completed an Iron Butt ride around NV and still looks for any opportunity to take on a new challenge or adventure on a motorcycle.
When not spending time working on motorcycles and cars, Bryon has a real job working at a company building agricultural robots.
After watching “The Long Way Round” Bryon put Mongolia on the top of his bucket list of places to travel. It was a quick decision to join Rally for Rangers after finding out he could ride motorcycles and do something valuable for the national parks of Mongolia.
Wes Paz
Raised in the rural Cascade Mountains near Walterville, Oregon, Wes grew up “in the wild.” He is the eldest son of an architect and an educator who moved their small family to a wilderness mountaintop to build their own home from lumber salvaged from a demolished saw mill. There was no running water in the home initially so bathing, regardless of the season, was done outdoors in runoff from a spring located on the property. Years later as a young teen, Wes acquired a dirt bike, essential transportation for gathering with friends. They spent countless hours riding together, exploring the many miles of logging roads connecting the local mountains.
Since those days in rural Oregon, Wes has enjoyed a life of discovery. A few notable adventures include climbing the highest peak in the Alps and bicycling across Europe. Early in his professional life, Wes worked as a photojournalist for nearly two decades covering some of the major news events of the late 1970s through 1990s. He later served as a managing partner in several technology and e-commerce startups. Wes joined Nordstrom.com in 2010 where he continues to serve as Director of Image Production.
Through the years, Wes has enjoyed serving as a youth mentor, volunteer, and advisor to a variety of non-profit and church groups.
Wes still cherishes the memories of his dirt bike-riding days in rural Oregon, and is eager to combine his affinity for adventure and the environment with the opportunity to serve the people of Mongolia and the larger community of those passionate to preserve our natural resources globally.
John Gommans
John loves the outdoor environment and has spent his life living and working in it. Combining an exciting adventure with preserving the natural habitat flora and fauna whilst helping those who have the same ideal appeals to him. He is looking forward to seeing the country and experiencing the people and places in a way that most do not have the opportunity to do.
John has been riding motorbikes and quads and horses and all manner of equipment since he was a boy. He will probably not be at the front of the pack anymore due to the common sense that comes with age, but he doubts that he will be at the back. John appreciates the opportunity to participate. This is one of his local kangaroos who likes a biscuit and comes to see his family at home; he is about 6’ standing upright and 150lb with impressively big claws. He has his respect.
Jeff Thresher
Jeff was born in a small town in Northeast Ohio with a sense of adventure in his veins. Freestyle skiing, BMX bikes and team sports kept him active throughout high school. The passion for skiing won out and he moved to Boulder, CO for college. Playing and competing in the mountains on skis and mountain bikes instilled a strong passion for the outdoors. After moving to Arizona, he purchased a slightly used DR350 and began exploring backroads and trails of the surrounding desert. He was hooked. His bikes evolved, KTMs filled the garage and trail riding became his focus. Extensive volunteer work on the Tonto National Forest helped him develop a clear understanding of the importance of responsible recreation on public lands.
His work planning and producing experiential marketing events for the automotive industry has taken him on adventures around the world. The only thing that fascinates him as much as exploring a new place is the machine that will take him there. One piece that has been missing from his travels is a sense of giving back and making some part of the world a better place. The opportunity to fill that void by helping the Park Rangers of the Altai Tavan Bogd National Park could not be passed up. He is grateful to have been chosen to join the 2018 Rally for Rangers team.
Jeff currently lives in Kirtland, OH with his wife Margaret and their chocolate lab Chance. His hobbies include motorcycle enduro racing, rally co-driving, skiing, biking and hiking.
Mike Patak
Mike Patak grew up in a small town in Upstate New York which produced tons of great memories with friends and family. The love of motorsports came early with minibikes, Yamaha 80 and micro cart. Mike also enjoyed the competitive days on the athletic fields and wrestling mat which led him to Slippery Rock State College and their wrestling team. It was here that he met his wife Cary and over the years raised 2 children in Albany, NY – Erik and Laura. Mike, Cary and children have a strong love and respect for the environment. They enjoy backcountry skiing, rock climbing, hiking, cycling and canoeing. Living in the Albany, NY area they frequent the Adirondacks, Catskills, Vermont Green and New Hampshire White Mountains. Mike established himself as a sales professional selling pharmaceuticals and medical device industry. Currently, he owns an Orthopedic Distributorship in the Northeast US area.
The products he sells improves the quality of life of individuals who are impacted by broken bones, cancer, sports injury and arthritis. Recently, while riding his mountain bike he broke his collar bone and had it plated however it didn’t stop him getting reacquainted with motocross. Keeping people in motion is one of Mikes passions. He learned about Rally for Rangers through his brother in law and RfRF co-founder Tom Medema. Mike is excited about being selected to participate in this endeavor to protect Mongolia’s natural resources along with supporting the rangers to do their honorable and worthy work.
Jessica Lewis
Jessica, born and raised in America’s Midwest, moved countries a few of times before settling in Australia; but she know it’s only temporary. Adventure, travel, epicurean meals, laughs, and adrenaline keep her going. Having ridden for only 7 years, on and off, motorcycles have played an important role in her life of thrill seeking because she loves spending time outdoors and keeping a healthy amount of dirt under her nails.
First hearing about Rally for Rangers got Jessica excited and anxious. Seeing a beautiful new country in the open air while giving back to the local community is what she found most valuable. Jess is looking forward to meeting everyone and creating amazing new memories!
Paul Pennell
Paul was instilled with a love for the outdoors and public lands at a young age. He grew up hunting, fishing, and operating off-road vehicles with his father. These pursuits were put on the back burner during college and his twenties- sometimes life gets in the way. With a new career and more personal freedom, he’s ready to fully pursue these interests again and is excited to help others care for the great outdoors.
Paul currently takes frequent trips on his Triumph Street Scrambler to the mountains of North Carolina to enjoy “the twisties” and hammock camp with other riders. He is chasing the goal of visiting every U.S. National Park, either by motorcycle or in his Jeep. He is also getting more active in the overlanding community, volunteering at Overland Expos on both sides of the country.
Batjargal Khandjav
Growing up close to nature, on horseback – a common lifestyle aspect of Mongolian kids in a nomadic countryside, has inspired Batjargal to participate in this Rally and experience once again the freedom of the vast steppes.
It is a great honor for him to be a part of this once-in-a-lifetime journey which will further strengthen both his personal and professional dedication and service aimed at protecting the environment.
Nothing could be more exciting than to ride a motorcycle all the way to the legendary Altai Tavan Bogd and hand it over to the local rangers who are wholeheartedly and proudly committed to protecting this pristine and spectacular national park.
Though not an expert rider, Batjargal is keen to take on the Rally for Rangers as a personal challenge and to make his contribution to the nature conservation efforts.
Anna Kim
Anna’s first foray into the two-wheeled world had a less than auspicious start when she whiskey throttled her rental scooter onto a sidewalk during her college fall break in the Bahamas. Nevertheless, she persisted. Upon moving to San Francisco at the age of 27, she purchased a used motorcycle and for weeks practiced riding around the empty streets at dawn. Motorcycling quickly became a passion of hers and before she knew it was commuting daily on a motorcycle, spending her weekends riding the back roads of the Bay Area, and boring all her very patient non-rider friends with nonstop chatter about bikes.
Anna works in construction robotics and when she’s not exploring California on her much-loved Street Triple R and trusty WR250R enjoys cooking, SCUBA, snowboarding, camping, traveling, and hosting pig roasts. She also recently launched a wine label called “Countersteer” and is excited to be able to combine her interests in wine and motorcycling (although obviously not at the same time).
Anna knew she wanted to participate in Rally for Rangers the instant she heard about the program through friends. Her first dual sport adventure, a 2,500-mile trip along the Carretera Austral to Ushuaia, was an unforgettable experience that opened her eyes to the joys of exploring the hidden corners of the earth on two wheels. Given the positive impact motorcycles have had on her life, she is particularly inspired by the mission of Rally for Rangers —to better the lives of those who are working hard to protect Mongolia’s natural resources—and is honored to have been chosen to take part in this year’s Rally.
Mike Ferrell
Mike Ferrell is from Raleigh, NC and works in marketing for Lenovo. He’s also studying broadcast journalism at the School of Media and Journalism at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
Mike’s been fascinated with motorcycles since he was young but has only been riding the past eight years. His first bike was a Buell Blast, and after year of riding and learning, he upgraded to a Ducati 09’ GT1000 – a bike he still rides today. His passion for Ducati grew and in 2016 purchased a 10’ Multistrada 1200 ST for commuting and adventuring. Last summer, Mike and a buddy rode their motorcycles almost 5,000 miles in 11 days across 15 states, visiting several national parks.
Rally for Rangers is an incredible opportunity to combine many of Mike’s passions: traveling on two wheels, protecting natural resources and learning about other people and cultures. A moto journey across Mongolia is a once in a lifetime adventure and he feels honored to contribute to such a great cause – the rangers of Altai Tavan Bogd National Park.
Tom Medema
Tom Medema developed a passion for national parks at a young age on family vacations throughout the American west. This passion turned into a career as a park ranger spanning nearly 30 years. Tom is equally passionate about national parks and public lands around the world and has worked with parks and monuments in South America and Europe as a subject matter expert in the field of interpretation and education. The opportunity to support the protection of natural and cultural heritage of parks and protected areas around the world is an opportunity he is excited and humbled to be a part of.
Tom is a sports and outdoor enthusiast, spending much of his free time enjoying two-wheeled travel by mountain bike, road bike, and motorbike. Over the past 20 years he has owned Harley-Davidson and BMW bikes and is currently riding an F800GS on the back roads and trails of Maryland, Virginia and West Virginia in preparation for the next epic and compelling adventure protecting the worlds special places one motorcycle at a time.
Wesley Thornberry
Tom Medema
Robert Cameron
Hamilton Muirhead
Mike Kennan
Elias Bikahi
Chuck Flinton
Steven Zwaan
Arlette Thibodeau
Orlin Vladikov
Mike Cox
Wesley Thornberry
Wesley is a founding member of the Rally for Rangers. Since its inception, as an avid motorcyclist, Wesley spearheaded the Rally for Rangers, raised awareness internationally about the National Parks of Mongolia, and rode in all rallies.
Wesley is the founder of Trend Digital, www.trend-digital.com, which specializes in post-production imaging services for e-commerce clothing and fashion retailers. Wesley is also a photographer, adventurer, and traveler and has documented the tribes of Omo Valley, Ethiopia, to the nomadic shamans of Mongolia. He currently lives in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia.
Tom Medema
Tom Medema developed a passion for national parks at a young age on family vacations throughout the American west. This passion turned into a career as a park ranger spanning nearly 30 years. Tom is equally passionate about national parks and public lands around the world and has worked with parks and monuments in South America and Europe as a subject matter expert in the field of interpretation and education. The opportunity to support the protection of natural and cultural heritage of parks and protected areas around the world is an opportunity he is excited and humbled to be a part of.
Tom is a sports and outdoor enthusiast, spending much of his free time enjoying two-wheeled travel by mountain bike, road bike, and motorbike. Over the past 20 years he has owned Harley-Davidson and BMW bikes and is currently riding an F800GS on the back roads and trails of Maryland, Virginia and West Virginia in preparation for the next epic and compelling adventure protecting the worlds special places one motorcycle at a time.
Robert Cameron
Robert (Hamilton’s brother) is an artist who lives in Toronto, Canada. He has been involved with many charities over the years including volunteering in Port-au-Prince, Haiti with an organization called Artists for Peace and Justice, as part of an initiative building free public secondary schools for youth in the poorest neighborhood in North America. He has also raised extensive funds for stem cell research and local hospitals.
Growing up in British Columbia, Canada, Robert has always had a love for riding and anything involving the great outdoors. Robert now rides a Yamaha R3 on the road in Toronto and plays on a KTM 250 up in the country in a place called Caledon. He has travelled to over 25 countries and his riding experiences range from the sand dunes of Namibia overlooking the border of Angola to the outback of Australia.
As a sculptor, Robert often finds inspiration for his work through developing diverse relationships and cultural experiences while traveling the world. He is very much looking forward to the journey, building new friendships, and equipping his Ranger with the means to protect the truly majestic environments of Patagonia.
Hamilton Muirhead
Hamilton grew up on the beautiful West Coast of Canada where he first rode a dirt bike and has since ridden in various countries including India, China, Indonesia and the Philippines. At an early age he developed a love of the outdoors and remote environments while skiing, sailing and hiking whenever possible.
For the past few years he has been involved in the development of renewable energy projects in Asia and is currently based in Hong Kong and Bali.
He is thrilled to have been chosen for the 2018 Rally for Rangers along with his little brother Robert and can’t wait to explore this incredibly beautiful country on two wheels. He is honored to have this opportunity to be able to help the dedicated Rangers in Patagonia to conserve and protect these important natural resources and raise awareness for this amazing cause!
Mike Kennan
Originally from the east coast, Mike is a freelance engineer based in Oakland, CA. He’s spent his entire career designing, building, and working with machines of all types. He thinks riding a motorcycle is the by far best way to enjoy the beautiful weather and majestic landscapes of California.
Mike Kennan heard about the Rally for Rangers from riders that did it in previous years and he’s extremely excited to be a part of the ride in 2018. In addition to the excitement of having the opportunity to ride a motorcycle across some of the most amazing terrain in the world, it’s a unique opportunity to help protect this same area before it gets developed or otherwise spoiled. As someone from the West, he thinks they have a limited appreciation for how things work in developing nations. While it’s good that a government can make laws, it doesn’t matter if no one is able enforce those laws. This is a chance to give the rangers the tools they need to help protect this ancient landscape.
Elias Bikahi
Elias Bikahi became interested in participating in the Rally for Rangers after assisting with a fundraiser for fellow rider, Tom Medema. Watching the video footage of the rangers in Mongolia moved him to volunteer to ride a bike out to support these rangers who have devoted their lives to protecting the park. Offering the bike to help the rangers better preserve their park and forest and protect the land more efficiently is an important adventure for him.
He started riding in 1986, on beautiful, paved American roads – so the Patagonia landscape will be an exciting off-road challenge. Riding long distances with friends and taking in the scenery in remote areas is his favorite kind of riding.
Chuck Flinton
Charles “Chuck” Flinton is a forensic psychologist living in the San Francisco Bay Area. Patagonia is his second “Rally for Rangers” outing. Raised in Saratoga Springs, New York, he became an early fan of state parks. Having ridden a motorcycle in every state except Louisiana and Alaska, he became enamored with gifts of nature. Over the years, he became aware of the threats to our environment, and the importance of protecting it. This starts with preserving national parks both locally and around the world.
When the opportunity arose to assist in providing motorcycles to the park rangers in Mongolia in 2015, he signed up immediately. The motorcycles empowered park rangers to access areas of the park more quickly and safely.
Protecting our environment against corporate forces and un-informed individuals is a mountainous obstacle. We can climb it together with education and providing resources to those at the forefront of protecting nature. Specifically, our PARK RANGERS!
On a more personal note, many years ago, Chuck was immobilized with pain due to ankylosing spondylitis (a spine and joint disease) forcing him to give up riding motorcycles. With the help of friends and science, the ride continues. So, in addition to promoting national parks, Chuck promotes the awareness that anyone (or any community) can overcome challenges on any level (personal, local, or global). Let’s save ourselves while we protect our parks.
Steven Zwaan
Steven is a Dutch entrepreneur who lived in Asia for 14 years before moving back to Amsterdam with his family in 2017. He is passionate about creating commercially attractive business strategies to solve economic issues and improve living conditions in emerging markets and founded companies in the affordable housing and renewable energy sectors.
At an early age he developed a love of sports, the outdoors and adventure travel. Steven rode dirt bikes through remote areas in Laos, the Philippines, Indonesia and Kazakhstan and can’t wait to explore the Torres del Paine, Los Glaciares, Tierra del Fuego and Karukinka parks in Patagonia.
He is a big fan of the Rally for Rangers cause and excited to have the opportunity to help the rangers in Patagonia preserve and protect this critically important wilderness and raise awareness for the importance of their long term preservation.
Arlette Thibodeau
Arlette Thibodeau is new to motorcycles but already long on seat time; she’s laid down more miles in her first six months of riding than most people do in their first couple of years. A Bay Area native and solo road trip junkie, she loves throwing a pack with a sleeping bag, some decent coffee and and her national parks pass onto her KLR and and heading out to rediscover the familiar turf of California and the Southwest on two wheels. She’s already learned a ton about herself along the way, and accidentally tipped over her bike in an impressive number of counties and states.
Rally for Rangers speaks straight to Arlette’s boundless enthusiasm for wilderness conservation, adventure, people who enjoy challenging and not-always-fun kinds of fun, and a fledgling love for dirt riding, even though she still falls over a lot.
Orlin Vladikov
Orlin is from Bulgaria and has been based in Singapore for the last 10 years. Since he was a little boy he has been genuinely passionate about motorcycles. He loves any type of riding – from trailing the jungles of Laos and Cambodia to touring along the twisties in Thailand and Malaysia, or going around the track at Sepang or Phillip Island. He enjoys nature, loves animals and wishes he had more time to contribute and give back to the environment. He lives with his girlfriend Lynn and their 2 cats – Michelin and DoobieWaffles.
Mike Cox
Mike was born and raised in the rugged and isolated town of Atikokan in Northwestern Ontario, Canada. An area that has more dirt-roads than paved and more fresh-water than land. As the youngest five, his sister and brothers blazed countless trails through the jungle of life ahead of him. The one path where all four brothers converged was with a common passion for dirt biking. Mike cannot recall a time where dirt bikes were not a part of his life and now, fourty-some years later, the Cox brothers still bond through riding despite living in different parts of the country. Dirt-bikes cultivated a strong mechanical aptitude and the understanding of various complex systems which led to careers as both a marine mechanic and an IT specialist and website developer. Now living in Ottawa, Ontario, Mike spends his time between his family, his passion for dirt-bikes and music, and his work life.
“Dirt biking is one of my lifelong passions and it is an activity that stimulates the ongoing expansion of a uniquely evolving skill set. For example it forces a minimum level of physical fitness upon you. Riding is not much fun without physical endurance. Riding quiets the mind like a meditation. The past and future are suspended in favor of the immediate moment.”
Tom Medema
Wesley Thornberry
Robert Cameron
Alexis Machovsky
Jason Buskey
Hamilton Muirhead
Michael Roberts
Lance Machovsky
Tom Medema
Tom Medema developed a passion for national parks at a young age on family vacations throughout the American west. This passion turned into a career as a park ranger spanning nearly 30 years. Tom is equally passionate about national parks and public lands around the world and has worked with parks and monuments in South America and Europe as a subject matter expert in the field of interpretation and education. The opportunity to support the protection of natural and cultural heritage of parks and protected areas around the world is an opportunity he is excited and humbled to be a part of.
Tom is a sports and outdoor enthusiast, spending much of his free time enjoying two-wheeled travel by mountain bike, road bike, and motorbike. Over the past 20 years he has owned Harley-Davidson and BMW bikes and is currently riding an F800GS on the back roads and trails of Maryland, Virginia and West Virginia in preparation for the next epic and compelling adventure protecting the worlds special places one motorcycle at a time.
Wesley Thornberry
Wesley is a founding member of the Rally for Rangers. Since its inception, as an avid motorcyclist, Wesley spearheaded the Rally for Rangers, raised awareness internationally about the National Parks of Mongolia, and rode in all rallies.
Wesley is the founder of Trend Digital, www.trend-digital.com, which specializes in post-production imaging services for e-commerce clothing and fashion retailers. Wesley is also a photographer, adventurer, and traveler and has documented the tribes of Omo Valley, Ethiopia, to the nomadic shamans of Mongolia. He currently lives in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia.
Robert Cameron
Robert (Hamilton’s brother) is an artist who lives in Toronto, Canada. He has been involved with many charities over the years including volunteering in Port-au-Prince, Haiti with an organization called Artists for Peace and Justice, as part of an initiative building free public secondary schools for youth in the poorest neighborhood in North America. He has also raised extensive funds for stem cell research and local hospitals.
Growing up in British Columbia, Canada, Robert has always had a love for riding and anything involving the great outdoors. Robert now rides a Yamaha R3 on the road in Toronto and plays on a KTM 250 up in the country in a place called Caledon. He has travelled to over 25 countries and his riding experiences range from the sand dunes of Namibia overlooking the border of Angola to the outback of Australia.
As a sculptor, Robert often finds inspiration for his work through developing diverse relationships and cultural experiences while traveling the world. He is very much looking forward to the journey, building new friendships, and equipping his Ranger with the means to protect the truly majestic environments of Patagonia.
Alexis Machovsky
Alexis grew up in a small town high in the Sierra Nevada of California. She and her sister had to literally walk uphill through the snow both ways to and from school, her sister barely heading their parent’s admonishment to “not lose your little sister in the deep snow.” Her first snowmobile at age 7 was an eye opener to the benefit of motorized transport in wild places. Growing up in the high mountains instilled in her a passion for wild places and as a teenager, her first dirt bike was a natural addition to her life of ski racing, backcountry skiing and climbing.
When Alexis heard the “Rally for Rangers” story, her imagination was captured by the idea of helping the Lake Hosgvol rangers move beyond bringing a proverbial ‘knife to the gunfight’ in their efforts. She looks forward to being part of the Rally team, forming new friendships with folks in Mongolia and enlisting the support of her friends and colleagues in the Lake Tahoe area where she makes her home.
Alexis will be fundraising for a brand new Yamaha AG200 and riding it across Mongolia to deliver to Ranger Miiraa Urt.
Jason Buskey
Jason grew up in the Adirondacks of upstate New York. He learned to ski at Whiteface in Lake Placid, NY. Hiking, mountain biking and camping in the Adirondacks was a spring to fall must. He brought his enthusiasm for the outdoor wilderness to the Sierras of California. Whether he is out backcountry skiing in the high peaks or riding his dirtbike on the fire roads, single tracks or down to the Playa in the Black Rock he is enjoying it to the fullest!
He enjoys capturing Mother Nature’s Beauty with his photography. He wants to be involved with the rally for rangers because it would be great to give to the people that protect her beauty and sacred resources. As a bonus he will have the opportunity to see an experience Mongolia.
Hamilton Muirhead
Hamilton grew up on the beautiful West Coast of Canada where he first rode a dirt bike and has since ridden in various countries including India, China, Indonesia and the Philippines. At an early age he developed a love of the outdoors and remote environments while skiing, sailing and hiking whenever possible.
For the past few years he has been involved in the development of renewable energy projects in Asia and is currently based in Hong Kong and Bali.
He is thrilled to have been chosen for the 2018 Rally for Rangers along with his little brother Robert and can’t wait to explore this incredibly beautiful country on two wheels. He is honored to have this opportunity to be able to help the dedicated Rangers in Patagonia to conserve and protect these important natural resources and raise awareness for this amazing cause!
Michael Roberts
An all-around two wheeled enthusiast, Michael is always looking for ways to combine his passion for motorcycles with his love for Mother Nature. Based in Singapore and originally from Australia, he has spent time riding around the world from the sand dunes of the Middle East, to the jungles of Malaysia and track days in Australia.
Michael works in commercial real estate but is actively involved in the electric motorcycle sector with Alta Motors, hoping that one day we will be able to provide motorcycles that will also be able to reduce the noise and air pollution impacts in sensitive areas such as the National Parks of the world.
Fascinated with Genghis Khan, he looks forward to discovering this land of beautiful people, ancient culture and majestic scenery on his way to meeting his Park Ranger!
Lance Machovsky
Lance was born to be an adventurer. Early days in Minnesota with a pack of cousins on mini-bikes and fishing skiffs kindled a life-long love of the outdoors and passion for two-wheeled travel. Fishing led to climbing and after a stint in the Navy he became serious about alpinism. Climbing and skiing led to work as a guide in the US, Europe and Latin America. “I’ve been fortunate to spend time in so many wild places around the world. Preserving and protecting them for future generations is really important to me.” A 2004 trail ride down the Baja 1000 route cemented offroad enduro riding as his new passion.
“Some of my outdoorsy friends assumed that off-roading ran counter to conservation and stewardship of wild lands. My friend Kacey Smith, avid Baja rider and guidebook author calls herself a tree hugging dirt biker. That could be a tagline for Rally for Rangers!” Naturally, when Lance heard about the Rally for Rangers, he signed up immediately. Lance rode in the 2017 rally to Otgontenger and is excited to return to Mongolia in 2018. “Mongolia is one of those places that exists in our imaginations as the embodiment of wild and untamed. It’s worth saving.” Lance invites you to join this grass roots movement, where the simple gift of some little motorcycles pays such exponential dividends.
Wesley Thornberry
Tom Medema
Batsaikhan Buyandelger
Hans Kwiotek
Hilary Davis
T.J. Tucciarone
Stuart Cordell
Peter Nissen
Motoki Watanabe
Mischeal McCormick
Mike Kennan
Kevin Murray
Kent De Groot
Irina Walker
Iain Emslie
Elias Bikahi
Chuck Flinton
André Angelantoni
Wesley Thornberry
Wesley is a founding member of the Rally for Rangers. Since its inception, as an avid motorcyclist, Wesley spearheaded the Rally for Rangers, raised awareness internationally about the National Parks of Mongolia, and rode in all rallies.
Wesley is the founder of Trend Digital, www.trend-digital.com, which specializes in post-production imaging services for e-commerce clothing and fashion retailers. Wesley is also a photographer, adventurer, and traveler and has documented the tribes of Omo Valley, Ethiopia, to the nomadic shamans of Mongolia. He currently lives in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia.
Tom Medema
Tom Medema developed a passion for national parks at a young age on family vacations throughout the American west. This passion turned into a career as a park ranger spanning nearly 30 years. Tom is equally passionate about national parks and public lands around the world and has worked with parks and monuments in South America and Europe as a subject matter expert in the field of interpretation and education. The opportunity to support the protection of natural and cultural heritage of parks and protected areas around the world is an opportunity he is excited and humbled to be a part of.
Tom is a sports and outdoor enthusiast, spending much of his free time enjoying two-wheeled travel by mountain bike, road bike, and motorbike. Over the past 20 years he has owned Harley-Davidson and BMW bikes and is currently riding an F800GS on the back roads and trails of Maryland, Virginia and West Virginia in preparation for the next epic and compelling adventure protecting the worlds special places one motorcycle at a time.
Batsaikhan Buyandelger
Batsaikhan is a Board Member of Mongol Ecology Center and was one of the riders of Ride for Rangers 2014 Rally. He is a native of Ulaanbaatar, the capital of Mongolia. He is the founder and General Director of Platinum Gate Architecture and Interior Design Corporation. In partnership with the Mongol Ecology Center and experts from the US National Park Service, Batsaikhan is spearheading the signage system and architectural theme project of Lake Hovsgol National Park.
He has been an avid motorcycle rider for the last 17 years and is the Vice President of the Harley Davidson Owners Club in Mongolia. Batsaikhan is riding for Ride for Rangers 2015 Rally again.
Hans Kwiotek
Hans Kwiotek is a German born photographer who has settled in San Francisco after having lived and worked in London, Berlin and Toronto.
In his commercial and personal work he is photographing fashion, beauty and people – having worked as a fashion photographer for the GAP for the last 5 years. Being engaged in many outdoor sports it is important to him to preserve nature in its pristine condition. This motorcycle rally is an important contribution to the preservation efforts which will ensure that untouched nature will be protected and available for future generations to enjoy.
Hilary Davis
Hilary Davis lives in Oakland CA. She has been fascinated with motorcycles as long as she can remember. Her first crush was the rider of the first bike she remember seeing. She was raised in the rural South East and has always treasured the pristine areas of the great outdoors, nature, wilderness and wildlife. Hilary has also had wander lust since her first steps. She would go just about anywhere for the sake of a new adventure. June 2009 her close friend offered her his 1966 BMW R69S, now she has a BIKE! This bike and the forever friends Hilary has made because of it has been life changing. She has now several bikes for a variety of riding environments. She loves them all and could not pick a favorite. When her friend Anton told her of this great motorcycle adventure and the incredible cause that it was for she wanted to be a part of it. Hilary wanted to go to Mongolia and deliver a bike to a ranger! A dream come true. Many of Hilary’s favorite things, beautiful pristine great outdoors, motorcycles, amazing people with huge hearts, a lust for adventure, and a tad crazy combined to save some of the great treasures Mother Earth has graced us with. Life doesn’t get better than this!
T.J. Tucciarone
T. J. Tucciarone grew up on the east coast of the United States but made his way to California, via his first big cross country motorcycle adventure, soon after college. The beauty of the pacific coast, wonder of its redwood forests and majesty of the Sierra Nevada mountain range have held him in their spell ever since.
After honing his skills on the back roads of California, T. J. went on to enjoy success road racing at various tracks across the U.S.A He has also traveled via motorbike throughout Baja Mexico, Canada and the mountains of Europe.
These days T. J.’s favorite pursuits revolve around the outdoors and include cycling, mountaineering and backpacking. He has a deep love and respect for nature and dedication to its conservation and, along with some of his dearest friends, is a fiercely devoted steward working hard to pass along the joy and wonder of nature to the next generation. T. J.’s wife and two daughters share his love for the natural world.
When he first learned about the Mongol Ecology Center and its efforts to help protect Mongolia’s natural treasures, T. J. was immediately enthralled. Mongolia has a great opportunity to preserve its precious resources now, before it is too late. Raising awareness and taking tangible steps to preserve our planet has never been more crucial.
As much as he is looking forward to experiencing Mongolia’s natural beauty, he is even more excited to meet and get to know its people and learn about their culture firsthand.
Stuart Cordell
Stuart Cordell lives in Dannevirke a small town in rural New Zealand. As a dairy farmer he learnt to ride a farm bike at an early age, and progressed to riding off road bikes soon after, and while the body doesn’t bounce back quite so fast anymore, the heart is still more than willing. Stuart has ridden many adventure and trail rides in New Zealand and overseas. The bike he loves to have fun on at the moment is a KTM300.
Farming today has a high emphasis on environmental sustainability. Clean water management and erosion control are a high priority for farmers as they maintain a clean green environment for future generations.
Stuart and his wife Sandra have travelled to Mongolia previously and loved the scenery and the friendly hospitable people.
Stuart has owned many Yamaha AG200’s as farm bikes as they are reliable, dependable and with some simple maintenance they just keep on running, so are the ideal choice to assist rangers in their work.
It is a pleasure and an honour to have the opportunity to participate in the 2015 Blue Wave Rallyand help preserve such a beautiful country.
Peter Nissen
Peter Nissen arrived in the U.S. at age 11 from Denmark, and quickly developed a love for the outdoors, surrounded by the scenic landscapes of the San Francisco Bay Area, with skiing, mountain biking, mountaineering and back packing becoming lifelong passions.
Peter bought his first bike, a Honda CB175, at auction at age 17, and quickly graduated to a Moto Guzzi Ambassador “milk crate project”, where (repeatedly) wrenching that bike back together gave him his love for all things mechanical and especially for Moto Guzzi — to the point of insisting on displaying one in the front hallway of his house!
Peter is occasionally forced to take a break from his outdoor activities to run his Structural Engineering firm, but tries to sneak out to play whenever his three boys, wife, and household chores decide he’s allowed.
Introduced to Rally for Rangers by his friend and fellow rider Matt almost a year ago, the combination of worthy cause and adventure proved irresistible, and Peter is now firmly committed,and looking forward to the trip of a lifetime.
Motoki Watanabe
Motoki Watanabe san lives in Shizuoka, Japan. He works as a Group Manager in Sales and Marketing of International Cooperation Group at Yamaha Motor Co.Ltd. Watanabe has been riding motorcycles for 30 years.
Mischeal McCormick
Mischeal McCormick is a registered Nurse and lives on a farm in the South Island of New Zealand. She prefers the outdoors and has a great appreciation of nature and the need to look after what we have.
Mischeal began her motorbike riding on a Honda 90 farm bike at the age of 15. Seven years ago when looking for an excuse to have time off work with her friends she brought a Suzuki Boulavard and has since ridden the roads in the North and South Island of New Zealand and Tasmania Australia.
While on her latest holiday/bike ride in Vietnam with Britton Adventures, Mischeal heard about the Blue Wave Rally and its cause and is thrilled to be part of the 2015 rally. She will ride one of the motorcycles to be donated to the Rangers in July.
Mike Kennan
Originally from the east coast, Mike is a freelance engineer based in Oakland, CA. He’s spent his entire career designing, building, and working with machines of all types. He thinks riding a motorcycle is the by far best way to enjoy the beautiful weather and majestic landscapes of California.
Mike Kennan heard about the Rally for Rangers from riders that did it in previous years and he’s extremely excited to be a part of the ride in 2018. In addition to the excitement of having the opportunity to ride a motorcycle across some of the most amazing terrain in the world, it’s a unique opportunity to help protect this same area before it gets developed or otherwise spoiled. As someone from the West, he thinks they have a limited appreciation for how things work in developing nations. While it’s good that a government can make laws, it doesn’t matter if no one is able enforce those laws. This is a chance to give the rangers the tools they need to help protect this ancient landscape.
Kevin Murray
Kevin has ridden in deserts and remote locations all over the world for the last 25 years and has lived in Mongolia with his family since 2003.
I spent my first two years riding around the wilds of Mongolia alone, before finally turning a hobby into a family business in 2005. This has allowed me to spend most of my summers enjoying the breath-taking wilderness that is Mongolia.
In the ten years that Outback Mongolia has been operating we have seen changes that have effected the environment that need to be stopped. On hearing about Blue Wave’s great work supporting the rangers to protect their pristine environment, we knew we had to help.
This will be the second year Kevin and Outback Mongolia will support the Blue wave rally.
Kent De Groot
Having lived in seven countries and traveled extensively on almost every continent, continued learning through exploring the cultures of the world and it’s places of natural beauty has been the driving force behind Kent’s life decisions. Being a rock climber, mountaineer, and avid back country traveler, he’s seen first hand the fragility of nature and understands the immediacy of the need to protect it. Coupling his desire to make a difference in the conservancy of protected areas with his almost three decade love for riding motorcycles made applying to be one of the riders for the 2015 Rally for Rangers an easy choice.
Kent currently lives in San Francisco where after twenty years in international business, he now helps direct a non-profit bringing Asia and the US together through extended projects in the field and educational forums in the US. When not at work or out in nature, he pursues his other passion of the written word and among other projects, is currently working on a novel.
He is overjoyed to have been selected to be one of the riders for the 2015 Rally and is looking forward to working with the teams here in California and around the world, to bring global awareness to the natural beauty of Mongolia and helping equip the rangers of the vast park lands of the Taiga in their ongoing efforts to protect these areas for generations to come.
Irina Walker
Irina Walker lives in Berkeley, works as a consultant. Originally from Russia, moved to US in 90s. Irina loves California weather, but not so much traffic, the decision was to buy a motorbike, riding since. In 2004 was certified as a MSF rider coach. Went for a few solo and group trips – across US, to South America, Japan, and the most recent trip was to the Himalayas.
Irina heard about the Rally for Rangers from her goddaughter’s coach, and was eager to join the group, to ride a motorcycle in this fantastic new area, and ride for a good cause: provide rangers with the vehicles they need to protect the pristine area.
Iain Emslie
Iain is a Dairy Farmer milking 800 Jersey Cows in a free range pasture fed farming system, therefore the environment and sustainable farming practices are important to him.
Iain having ridden through parts of South America, Vietnam, his own country and traveled in Europe and experienced farming in USA, Germany and China, has made him aware and given him an appreciation of how important preservation of our environment is.
On hearing about the Blue Wave rally from Mike and supporting the rangers to protect their pristine environment was a must do.
Having ridden motorbikes from a young age he is looking forward to the challenges of delivering the bike.
Elias Bikahi
Elias Bikahi became interested in participating in the Rally for Rangers after assisting with a fundraiser for fellow rider, Tom Medema. Watching the video footage of the rangers in Mongolia moved him to volunteer to ride a bike out to support these rangers who have devoted their lives to protecting the park. Offering the bike to help the rangers better preserve their park and forest and protect the land more efficiently is an important adventure for him.
He started riding in 1986, on beautiful, paved American roads – so the Patagonia landscape will be an exciting off-road challenge. Riding long distances with friends and taking in the scenery in remote areas is his favorite kind of riding.
Chuck Flinton
Charles “Chuck” Flinton is a forensic psychologist living in the San Francisco Bay Area. Patagonia is his second “Rally for Rangers” outing. Raised in Saratoga Springs, New York, he became an early fan of state parks. Having ridden a motorcycle in every state except Louisiana and Alaska, he became enamored with gifts of nature. Over the years, he became aware of the threats to our environment, and the importance of protecting it. This starts with preserving national parks both locally and around the world.
When the opportunity arose to assist in providing motorcycles to the park rangers in Mongolia in 2015, he signed up immediately. The motorcycles empowered park rangers to access areas of the park more quickly and safely.
Protecting our environment against corporate forces and un-informed individuals is a mountainous obstacle. We can climb it together with education and providing resources to those at the forefront of protecting nature. Specifically, our PARK RANGERS!
On a more personal note, many years ago, Chuck was immobilized with pain due to ankylosing spondylitis (a spine and joint disease) forcing him to give up riding motorcycles. With the help of friends and science, the ride continues. So, in addition to promoting national parks, Chuck promotes the awareness that anyone (or any community) can overcome challenges on any level (personal, local, or global). Let’s save ourselves while we protect our parks.
André Angelantoni
André Angelantoni, a native of Toronto but now living in San Francisco, woke up to the condition of the planet a decade ago and has been supporting environmental initiatives ever since. Though primarily working in the open-source software movement now, one project he’s particularly proud of is designing and running a coaching program that supported businesses in getting their Green Business Certification. He still speaks about and publishes papers on appropriate societal responses to global oil depletion.
Almost every weekend during riding season you’ll find him on his motorcycle enjoying the park system in California and neighboring states (and is a proud member of the National Parks Conservation Association). Experiencing nature and the natural world is how André rejuvenates, reconnects to his commitments and stays focused on his priorities. He is thrilled to be part of a project that supports the park system — and the committed park rangers — of Mongolia.
Wesley Thornberry
Tom Medema
Jake McIntosh
Batsaikhan Buyandelger
Munkh-Orgil Erdenesukh
Paul Li
Hans Kwiotek
Douglas Shaw
Doug Van Ommeran
Anton Berteaux
Robert McIntosh
Wesley Thornberry
Wesley is a founding member of the Rally for Rangers. Since its inception, as an avid motorcyclist, Wesley spearheaded the Rally for Rangers, raised awareness internationally about the National Parks of Mongolia, and rode in all rallies.
Wesley is the founder of Trend Digital, www.trend-digital.com, which specializes in post-production imaging services for e-commerce clothing and fashion retailers. Wesley is also a photographer, adventurer, and traveler and has documented the tribes of Omo Valley, Ethiopia, to the nomadic shamans of Mongolia. He currently lives in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia.
Tom Medema
Tom Medema developed a passion for national parks at a young age on family vacations throughout the American west. This passion turned into a career as a park ranger spanning nearly 30 years. Tom is equally passionate about national parks and public lands around the world and has worked with parks and monuments in South America and Europe as a subject matter expert in the field of interpretation and education. The opportunity to support the protection of natural and cultural heritage of parks and protected areas around the world is an opportunity he is excited and humbled to be a part of.
Tom is a sports and outdoor enthusiast, spending much of his free time enjoying two-wheeled travel by mountain bike, road bike, and motorbike. Over the past 20 years he has owned Harley-Davidson and BMW bikes and is currently riding an F800GS on the back roads and trails of Maryland, Virginia and West Virginia in preparation for the next epic and compelling adventure protecting the worlds special places one motorcycle at a time.
Jake McIntosh
Jake graduated from Bates College in 2013 with degrees in Cultural Anthropology and French. His academic focus concentrated on microfinance networks in Dakar, Senegal, analyzing power dynamics and relationships between communal women borrowers and institutions. He has worked as a community organizer in Boston, MA fighting for better wages and working conditions within Boston’s restaurant industry.
Jake lives in New York City working for a green roofing company transforming New York City’s industrial warehouses into living and breathing structures that support plants and wildlife. He looks forward to returning to Mongolia. Not enough meat or vodka here in the United States.
Batsaikhan Buyandelger
Batsaikhan is a Board Member of Mongol Ecology Center and was one of the riders of Ride for Rangers 2014 Rally. He is a native of Ulaanbaatar, the capital of Mongolia. He is the founder and General Director of Platinum Gate Architecture and Interior Design Corporation. In partnership with the Mongol Ecology Center and experts from the US National Park Service, Batsaikhan is spearheading the signage system and architectural theme project of Lake Hovsgol National Park.
He has been an avid motorcycle rider for the last 17 years and is the Vice President of the Harley Davidson Owners Club in Mongolia. Batsaikhan is riding for Ride for Rangers 2015 Rally again.
Munkh-Orgil Erdenesukh
Munkh-Orgil was one of the Mongolian riders who joined our Rally for Rangers 2014. Before establishing his own businesses in 2011 in Mongolia, Munkh-Orgil was known as one of the famous Sumo wrestlers in Japan. He practiced sumo wrestling for 12 years reaching the maigashira top division. Munkh-Orgil has also been riding motorcycles since he was 8 years old with his father, who is a master athlete of motorsports. He competed in his first motorcycle race when he was 16 and is an experienced motorcycle rally organizer.
Munkh-Orgil is once again going to join the team of international riders for our Rally for Rangers 2015 to deliver motorcycles for the rangers of Ulaan Taiga State Specially Protected Areas.
Paul Li
I am riding in the Blue Waves Motorcycle Rally in Mongolia in memory of my dad,and for the future of my daughter.
My dad, who passed away in 2001, taught me many things. One was a love of motorcycles. I am forever grateful to him for having enough confidence in me at age14 to let me get my first bike, a Suzuki DS 80. He also taught me the essentials of basic maintenance, and since then I have always preferred buying used bikes and working on them. Even now I commute to work daily on a bike. I try to minimize my ecological footprint by reducing and reusing as much as possible.
My parents also grew vegetables in our suburban backyard. This was my first exposure to organic farming and composting. Our vacations were frequently camping trips and other low impact activities. They instilled in me the importance of protecting the environment, and in the past few decades I have realized that we are reaching a critical point in our planet’s history. As the world’s population continues to grow exponentially and non-renewable materials are depleted, fresh water and other life-sustaining resources must be carefully protected and maintained.
I hope that efforts such as these will help to keep my dad’s values alive for my daughter’s generation and beyond.
Hans Kwiotek
Hans Kwiotek is a German born photographer who has settled in San Francisco after having lived and worked in London, Berlin and Toronto.
In his commercial and personal work he is photographing fashion, beauty and people – having worked as a fashion photographer for the GAP for the last 5 years. Being engaged in many outdoor sports it is important to him to preserve nature in its pristine condition. This motorcycle rally is an important contribution to the preservation efforts which will ensure that untouched nature will be protected and available for future generations to enjoy.
Douglas Shaw
Douglas is a Californian who has spent most of his time in San Francisco, Salt Lake City and Yosemite National Park as management in the hotel and restaurant industry.Eighteen years ago he bought a run down scouts camp near Yosemite National Park and built it into the Yosemite Bug Rustic Mountain Resort with cabins in a variety of accommodations, a restaurant, a health spa and groups facilities. It has been successful in this region as an independent business. He also built & ran a tour business from San Francisco to Yosemite for many years.
Additionally he serves on the regional Visitors Bureau Board and is involved in many community activities including music, horticulture, theater and events. He has been an avid skier, backpacker, motorcyclist, bicyclist, diver and adventure traveller for most of his life. Asia, coincidentally, is his current continent to discover since he has travelled widely in Europe, North America, South America, and Australia/Oceania.
Doug Van Ommeran
Doug has lived in northern California for a couple of decades now, at first working at a university before landing various roles in the computer software industry. Northern California is the perfect playground for his other pursuits of scuba diving, having taught for a few years, rock climbing, and, of course, motorcycling. The importance of parks and natural preservation is not lost on Doug, who has also appreciated the national parks outdoors in his travels throughout South America and Indonesia. The chance to contribute to the preservation of the beauty of Mongolia, combined with the joy of motorcycling makes this an exciting opportunity.
Anton Berteaux
I started riding Motorcycles at the ripe old age of 17, which was as soon as I couldbuy one and use it without my parents knowing. I have since ridden around the westpart of the US, and started riding dirt a decade ago. I have ridden in Baja, the Sierras,and Nevada, because I admire open spaces, and beautiful desert, and am excited forthe opportunity to not only experience Mongolia, but hopefully leave it a better placethan I found it.
I have been a mechanic, welder, chicken farmer, and am currently in charge ofmaintenance on a horse-boarding ranch.
I am currently obsessed with sailing, and plans go camping at every available site inthe bay area where it is possible to beach a racing catamaran!
Robert McIntosh
Rider of Mongolia 2014 rally
Robert retired from the National Park Service as an Associate Regional Director, Northeast Region where he directed planning, natural resource, historic preservation, capital construction and community partnership programs for the region. He has served on international projects in China, India and Mongolia. Robert served as the General Superintendent, Gateway National Recreation Area in New York/New Jersey and held various planning, policy and senior management positions throughout the country in the Department of the Interior – Bureau of Outdoor Recreation and later as the northeast regional director for the Heritage Conservation and Recreation Service. Robert serves on the Boards of Lowell’s Boat Shop, the Mongol Ecology Center, the New Bedford Whaling History Alliance, and is a member of the Essex National Heritage Area Commission. Bob is a recipient of the U.S. Department of Interior’s Distinguished Service Award.
