TRAVERSE Issue 19 - August 2020 | Seite 42

bring out a riding experience and capability that many would suggest they never realised they had. “If you have never tried adventure riding you should make it a priority to at least try it.” We can’t argue with that. “You won't be disappointed. Hiring a guide like myself tends to put some people off because they think they don't need a ‘guide’. Even I’m guilty of that. “Hiring a guide allows you to reach areas not many others dare to venture into alone because they don't know what to expect. You eliminate all the stress of organisation and carrying spare parts, equipment, you only need to focus on one thing. Having the time of your life!” With lockdown affecting North America, in particular the USA, quite hard Matt has been spending his time preparing ‘road books’ for British Colombia to enable courses teaching riders how to read these navigational tools and become prepared for rallying. It’s in his blood and the near future looks extremely exciting. “I’d love to see more people get involved in the sport,” he says. “For me personally I plan on training/riding as much as I can and go back to race the Africa Eco Race in January. Restrictions permitting, Matt is keen to get to Spain in October to train with Poskitt and become more familiar with the bike for the 2021 event. He’ll follow this with the Sonora Rally in March, then a tour season filled with riders. Then international rallies in Africa and Europe to prepare for the big one … Dakar … that’s for another time, another chat. In the meantime, we’ll keep an eye on MVMA and Matt’s racing in north west Africa. TRAVERSE TRAVERSE 42