PAUL NEFF FROM ISDE TO

I was fortunate enough to sit with Paul Neff to I and became part of the American Rally Originals (ARO). Our group is heading to Saudi Arabia for the 45th running of the Dakar.

- David Pearson

For those who follow ISDE, trails, or off-road events, you might recognize the name. Paul is a World Trophy rider and three time medal winner (one Gold and two Silver) at the International Six Day events.

ADV Let's start by going way back-how did you first get on a dirt bike?

PAUL NEFF: I started riding when I was four, on a Yamaha PW50. My dad rode, so I wanted to as well. The PW got me hooked. I started racing motocross and off-road events at the age of five and things just took off from there.

ADV I hear you just overalled the Stumpjumpers Desert 100. Rumors are it had 1,500 starters and you were on an overweight rally bike. How did that happen?

PN: I came into the race with little to no expectations and found myself on the right side of the chess match. I learned quickly when to push or hold back. Then I really charged at the end and was the first across the finish. It was the 50th anniversary and one of the biggest off-road events in our area of the northwest. It was really cool to finally get the win as I had been trying for years.

ADV How many ISDEs have you ridden-which was your favorite?