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“ I am not talking about physical limitations or understanding , but seeing riders hampered by fear and hesitation . I am as much a counsellor and a cheerleader as I am an instructor . I am truly invested in the success of my riders .”
It became apparent , in Nepal , that Bret does become invested as he shares the nervous banter with all riders , despite his own level of calm and confidence in his own ability , something that is not projected onto others in a way that could be considered egotistical . Riders grew throughout the weeks of adventure without releasing they were being guided , instructed , and mentored through the environment .
It ’ s a collaborative approach that sees attitudes alter , shift from the nervousness to a more positive level of reinforcement .
“ For me , the best thing I have seen … is the incredible bond between riders working through challenges together ,” Bret adds , stating that years ago he instituted a rule where riders were to only pick up their own bike once during training sessions . Initially it was a way of reducing fatigue and potential injury but has quickly
become a way of building teams and encouragement of all riders .
“ It has become one of the best things I have ever started .”
Instructional riding has opened new opportunities for Bret as he sees a world of adventure and exploration through the medium of two wheels . His first international ride was relatively recent , a 2008 trip to Mexico that was cut short due to one rider becoming seriously ill due to kidney stones . With an appetite whet , Bret has now ridden in over 50 countries and is always looking for more , and encourages others to do so through his own adventures or challenging themselves to do it solo .
“ My greatest challenge , starting out doing international travel by motorcycle , was avoiding the advice of all the people who have never done it but were happy to tell me how to ,” he shrugged when prompted about his greatest challenge to starting .
“ It is the mistakes we make along the way that make travelling by motorcycle so rewarding .”
Bret is quick to point out that correct rider and medical
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