"The Long Road to Racing Baja: Overcoming the Odds"

My name's Hunter, and I want to share with you a short story about an incredible individual I've had the honor of knowing. Over the years, he hasn't just taught me a few things about living; he's truly transformed my life for the better.

My wish with this GoFundMe is to bring light to an amazing person along with bring one of his biggest dreams to life. Racing in the Baja 1000. A Desert race like no other.

Kurt Oakland a man who has inspired thousands, including me. He's driven us to our limits, testing our fortitude, strengthening our resolve, and shaping our character. Like the forging of a diamond, he applies immense pressure to those around him, and like the mighty trees that withstand any storm, he teaches us to plant our roots deep, seize life, and craft our destiny. He's walked the hard road, not always by choice, but over time, he realized that choosing the tough path is the only way to push the boundaries of life and discover its boundless potential. He breaks you down to build you up, revealing the true potential within that many never knew existed.

Kurt's journey began with his father, an avid motorcyclist whose influence led Kurt to become a passionate dirt bike racer. However, a tragic accident left his father paralyzed from the neck down, reshaping their family's daily life. As a child, Kurt found solace in racing through the forests, spending hours on his bike each day. At sixteen, disaster struck again when he was involved in a horrific car accident. The truck flipped, ejecting him and trapping him in the wheel well, leaving him barely conscious with multiple fractures, severe skin lacerations, and both lungs compromised—one punctured, one collapsed. Miraculously, after six months of excruciating recovery, including numerous casts, skin grafts, and the surgical removal of one lung, Kurt not only survived but was reborn with an unbreakable spirit.

After taking time to heal, Kurt's yearning to ride returned in late-night dreams of conquering mountaintops and darting through trees. Despite the physical challenge, his mind and body eventually aligned, rekindling his passion for racing. He has since competed in countless events across Washington, racing alongside champions, intermediates, and everyday enthusiasts like myself. He's raced on the beaches of Portugal and through the jungles of Costa Rica, always by the side of friends, family, and fellow racers. I witnessed his first 6-hour race at Starvation ridge Park in Goldendale, Washington, where despite a DNF due to electrical issues, he came back stronger, winning the Rusty Iron class the following year as a solo rider. The next year, he clinched victory in the 24-hour race there, from sunrise to sunrise, and repeated the feat the following year, winning two consecutive years in a row, proving that determination can indeed lead to triumph.

Kurt's character is as remarkable as his racing achievements. He's generous, always ready to lend support, and has been an invaluable mentor to me, guiding me when I stray and listening when I'm lost. After his success at Starvation ridge, he shared with me his dream of racing the Baja 1000. Familiar with this legendary challenge, having followed it for years, he captivated me with stories of past and present racers.

Baja, however, is an expensive endeavor. Racing there solo requires not just a bike but substantial support for fuel, logistics, and chase vehicles. Our research led us to a solution where a team could provide food, fuel, a chase car, and a specially built bike. After considering various options, Kurt chose one that balanced cost with amenities. We've been seeking sponsorships to fund this dream, but success has been elusive. My aim with this narrative is not only to share Kurt's story but also to rally support for his dream.

What makes this even more thrilling is that upon completion, Kurt will be the oldest person to ever race the entire Baja 1000 solo in the Pro-Moto Ironman class. This race has been a lifelong dream for him, and I hope these words inspire others, showcase what's possible, and help turn this dream into reality.

The company assisting with the race allows for custom graphics on the bike. If you own a business or wish to see your branding on the race bike, Your donation will help apply your branding to the bike.

All donations will go directly to funding this operation Food, Fuel, Team Support, Dirt Bike, and everything else.

Thank you,

Hunter