Audiobook10 hours
From Para to Dakar
Written by Joey Evans
Narrated by Joey Evans and Meredith Evans
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
5/5
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About this audiobook
"I’ve realised that when things are really tough and there seems no hope for the future, it’s sometimes just Chapter One of a really cool story, and the ending is entirely up to you."
Joey Evans has always loved bikes, from his first second-hand Raleigh Strika at the age of six to the powerful off-road machines that became his passion later on in his life. His dream was one day to ride the most gruelling off-road race in the world, the 9000km Dakar Rally.
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 the many challenges he and his family faced, relating the setbacks, as well as successes, along the way to the Dakar start line. But the start line was only the first goa. His sights were set on reaching the finish line, which he did in 2017, the only South African to do so.
From Para to Dakar 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.
Joey Evans has always loved bikes, from his first second-hand Raleigh Strika at the age of six to the powerful off-road machines that became his passion later on in his life. His dream was one day to ride the most gruelling off-road race in the world, the 9000km Dakar Rally.
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 the many challenges he and his family faced, relating the setbacks, as well as successes, along the way to the Dakar start line. But the start line was only the first goa. His sights were set on reaching the finish line, which he did in 2017, the only South African to do so.
From Para to Dakar 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.
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Reviews for From Para to Dakar
Rating: 4.875 out of 5 stars
5/5
8 ratings3 reviews
- Rating: 4 out of 5 stars4/5Much more inspiring than I anticipated and essential reading for any Dakar dreamers. Joey’s account gives an authentic sense of just how arduous this race is.
1 person found this helpful
- Rating: 5 out of 5 stars5/5Thoroughly enjoyed this book! Having the author narrating just brought the reality of despair and triumph to life. The story is incredibly relatable to anyone on a bike...or just on your couch, like me. I felt like I was along for the ride.
- Rating: 5 out of 5 stars5/5Amazing and inspiring story. Dakar is an one of a kind event in the eyes of many and hearing it told from such a exceptional angle is a rare treat.. Well done Joey!!! Massive congrats!!!