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At just eighteen years old, RJ Walker is the youngest person ever to compete in the Rip to Cabo – a seven-day, single-track dirt bike adventure down the Baja Peninsula. He participated riding alongside his father, Bob Walker. The Rip to Cabo highlights the rugged construction of ODYSSEY® batteries. The harsh effects inflicted on both bike and rider is a testament to the durability of ODYSSEY batteries.
RJ will attend Southern Oregon University in the fall to pursue a degree in sports management. While football is his passion – and what he’ll be playing in college – his love for dirtbikes has grown, thanks to his dad.
You were the youngest to ever complete the Rip to Cabo. What was your inspiration behind competing and can you describe the experience?
In my early days of riding I’d always hear about how great the riding down in Mexico is. My dad began racing down there, along with taking part in the Rip to the Tip and, now, the Rip to Cabo, put together by Cameron Steele. Ever since I was ten, it was a dream of mine to ride it when I turned eighteen.
What was it like to team up with your dad?
It was an unforgettable experience that’s hard to put into words. I’ll never forget racing each other heading into Cataviña on some of the best trails I’ve ever ridden. We passed 35-40 other riders without even realizing it.
Looking back at your experience during the event:
- What was your favorite part of the trip?
The whole trip was amazing. It’s hard to pick a favorite part. There are so many experiences that leave you speechless.
- What was the most challenging part of the ride?
The most challenging part of the whole ride is being on a bike for 8-14 hours a day, riding anywhere from 120-300 miles. It mentally and physically wears you down, but in the end it’s all worth it.
You mainly play football and lacrosse – is dirt bike riding a hobby for you, or is it something you wish to compete in full-time?
With high school sports in the loop, it was always extremely hard to find time to ride. My coaches also weren’t the most thrilled about dirt bikes. However, it is definitely my favorite hobby. I hope to someday share that with my own kids.
We know you recently committed to Southern Oregon University – what do you plan on pursuing there, in education and in sports?
I plan to play football as a slot receiver, while studying business with an emphasis on sports marketing so one day when I’m done playing I can still be in the sports scene – and get paid for it.
Between football, lacrosse and dirt bike riding, which do you enjoy most? Why?
That’s a tough one. It’s between dirt bikes and football. As of right now it would be football because that’s what’s helping me get a college education.
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