While the 2019 Dakar is on the go, it’s a timely reminder of the 2017 rally when Joey Evans was the only South African biker to finish the race.
Joey’s dream was one day to ride the most gruelling off-road race in the world, the 9000km Dakar Rally. But in 2007 his dream was shattered when he broke his back in a racing accident. His spinal cord was crushed, leaving him paralysed from just below his chest. Doctors gave him a 10 per cent chance of ever walking again
Many would have given up and become resigned to life in a wheelchair, but not Joey Evans. Not only would he get back on his feet and walk, but he would also keep his Dakar dream alive. It was a long and painful road to recovery, involving years of intensive rehabilitation and training, but he had the love and support of both family and friends and an incredible amount of determination
Joey shares in his book, From Para to Dakar, the many challenges he and his family faced, relating the setbacks, as well as successes, along the way. His book is so much more than the story of one man reaching the Dakar finish line. It is a story of friendship and respect, compassion and kindness. It is about defying the odds to reach a dream, it is about grit, endurance and raw courage, and it is inspiring in its true heroism.