Heading
The alarm went off at 4:00 a.m. this morning, after what could hardly be called a proper night’s sleep. But the adventure was about to begin, and there was no time to waste!
Our flight from Miami to Les Cayes, Haiti, was surprisingly deluxe. However, any thoughts of comfort quickly disappeared when we stepped off the plane and were hit by the heat and humidity. Welcome to Haiti!
After unloading the trucks and making our way to the compound, we were greeted by the motorcycles and the awesome staff from HBM. There is something special about arriving in Haiti and being welcomed by familiar faces, eager smiles, and the anticipation of what lies ahead.
We quickly changed into our Haiti Motomadness gear, climbed onto the bikes, and hit the road!
Our first stop took us back to the airport, where Steve Luteyn gifted a motorcycle to someone Mark has been in contact with for some time. What a great way to begin the journey! These motorcycles are more than just machines; they represent relationships, opportunities, and the potential to make a real difference in someone’s life.
From there, we continued our ride through some beautiful Haitian countryside, stopping at a stunning waterfall where we took group photos. It was a perfect place to pause and appreciate the beauty of God’s creation.
And then the weather changed.
The rain began to fall, the fog rolled in, and we climbed to approximately 6,000 feet in elevation. The scenery was incredible, but the conditions certainly added a new dimension to the ride! We continued onward, winding our way through the mountains until, at last, we reached the ocean and some sunshine.
What a beautiful setting! After the rain and fog in the mountains, the sunshine and ocean views were a welcome sight.
Our final stretch took us through Jérémie and onward to the compound, completing a journey of approximately 100 kilometres. By this point, we had experienced a little bit of everything: heat, humidity, mountain roads, rain, fog, waterfalls, ocean views, and plenty of adventure.
But the highlight of the day may have been the welcome waiting for us at the compound. We were greeted so warmly by the staff, and after introductions, we took time to thank the Lord together for bringing us safely through the journey.
There is something deeply meaningful about arriving safely after a long day of travel and adventure and being able to gather with fellow believers to give thanks to God.
Dinner was a delicious plate of rice and beans. Simple food, wonderful company, and a welcome that made us feel right at home.
The evening also brought a special opportunity to hear Pascal share his testimony about finding Mark and, through that relationship, finding Jesus. Stories like these remind us that behind every organization, every motorcycle, every journey, and every partnership are people—and, more importantly, the work God is doing in their lives. The connections we make can become part of a much bigger story than we could ever imagine.
As I write this tonight, relentless rain and thunder are pounding outside. After the sunshine and beautiful ocean views earlier in the day, Haiti is reminding us once again that the weather can change quickly!
It has been a very long day, beginning before sunrise and ending with full hearts, new memories, and gratitude for God’s protection.
Today was about much more than riding motorcycles. It was about people, relationships, generosity, testimony, and the privilege of serving alongside others who share a heart for Haiti.
We are tired, we are grateful, and we are looking forward to what tomorrow will bring.
What a memorable first day in Haiti Motomadness!
