“ Yes , it ’ s the perfect preparation ,” he adds without being prompted . “ A race that is comparable to Dakar on almost every level .”
Riding for an established team comes with responsibility however , Houlihan sees that as a positive suggesting that Nomadas is more akin to a family with support at all levels , including major sponsor Coca Cola Energy .
“ The support I had from them after my accident and the month long stay in the Greek hospital was amazing . From that point onwards I formed a great friendship with the team owner , Hernan Samaniego , and my riding teammate Pablo , they have been an integral part of my racing .”
Houlihan feels there ’ s no added pressure from riding for a team with a major sponsor and is all part of being professional about the approach to racing .
“ Coca Cola Energy and Nomadas , along with my other sponsors , all understand what is required and the risks involved with our sport . Representing all of them in a professional manner and finishing each race is the main goal .”
Support , family , important aspects to racing at this level and Houlihan has not only a great team but also the full support of his wife , Katie , and their children .
“ Katie tries to get to as many rallies with me as she can ,” he smiles . “ She spent three weeks in Morocco with me training in a Dakar SSV ( side by side vehicle ) last year and is just as passionate as I am .”
The pair are hopeful that they will take part in a Dakar together , in the same vehicle , a side by side .
With all this racing in far off , exotic lands , is there much time for travel ? To become immersed in a location , the people , a culture .
“ For sure ,” he explains , there ’ s a hint of explorer about Houlihan . “ I spent four weeks riding and camping in Mongolia with Scott Britnell , as part of his 2017 Dakar preparation . Katie and I plan to adventure ride in a few different countries .
“ Having raced in different locations in Europe and
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