Johnny Mc Master (aka H.R.H. Oonyack)
The Man
Self proclaimed King of Oonyackistan!
Self employed owner of Isle of Skye Windscreens.
I've been riding bikes since the age of 8 helping my dad teaching bronze star riders.He told me the most expensive part of a motorcycle was the rent. "Well your not staying in my house if you get a bike"
Ex dispatch rider in London, completed two Enduroafrica's supplied 2 bikes for Riders for Health and worked with EnduroIndia last year riding Royal Enfields through India.
The Machine
Left the wierdy beardy world of BMW and now ride a KTM 990 Adventure S 
Gert de Jonge (aka Nakambale)
The Man
I was born in the Netherlands in 1961. Bought my first bike at 17, a trusty Honda 400N, which saw some great action along the highways and byways of continental Europe. Although having had a passion for BMW motorbikes since that age, I’ve only recently acquired the bike that is going to accompany me to the Gambia. In 1988 I moved to the sunnier climate of Scotland where I’ve lived ever since (apart from a 3 year posting in London and 3 years in Copenhagen). A Petroleum Engineer by profession, I currently work as a Technology Consultant for a major oil company (not the Anglo-Dutch one).
I am married to my wonderful wife Anette (“off you go then” was her response when I told her I was interested in this trip - Thank You!) and have two teenage daughters from a previous marriage.
Other interests include scuba/free diving, painting and during the last few years travel in south Africa and Namibi
The Machine
2008 R1200 GS Adventure, currently standard, but modifications certainly expected over the course of the next year.
David Lees (aka Freeloader)
The Man
I’m 53, and started riding motorcycles when I was about 14, on the Fife farm where I grew up, inspired by my father and an old Brough Superior with an Indian engine which sadly, I never saw running! From my first ride on my BSA C15 on the public road on my 16th birthday, up to the age of about 26, a motorbike was my main method of transport.
After working for a local BMW dealer I bought my first BMW, an R1200GS. That machine has now been replaced by an F800GS, only the second new bike I’ve ever had, and the first new bike I had to pay for - and the bike which will hopefully transport me safely to The Gambia. Since the longest journey I have ever made on two wheels so far is about 400 miles, this will genuinely be a trip of a lifetime for me.
I’ve been through various occupations, and am currently investigating setting up a small business.
Things which interest me apart from bikes, are gliding, traveling in general, and hiding in the garage, playing with a lathe.
I live in Tentsmuir Forest, in Fife, with my partner Catherine and our pack of 15 Siberian Huskies.
The Machine
2008 BMW F800 GS
Mike Dolan
The Man
“I work for the University of Strathclyde’s Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering in Glasgow. I have been to Gambia before, with other staff and students from the university, to install small off-grid solar installations in the Central River Region’s rural communities. There are more installations planned… I am really looking forward to this trip, meeting all the others and travelling along Gambia’s much needed new road!!
I am truly grateful for the support, advice and sponsorship I have received from the following:
· The University of Strathclyde’s Faculty of Engineering, the Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering and the Institute for Energy and Energy and Environment
· Motorrad Central
· Alder Enterprises
A big thank you to everyone who has donated! Their contributions will enhance the lives of others... ”
The Machine
2006 BMW R 1200 GSA
David Monro (aka the bhud or bhuda)
The Man
Age 44: still think I’m 21 but it seems to hurt much more now.
Live in Newburgh near Aberdeen.
Married to Katherine my childhood sweetheart (she wrote this bit) for 21 years. No kids (what a blessing some say Katherine says different - she has me!!!)
Work in aviation at Dyce Shift pattern week on week off – it is tough but I try my best to make the best use of my time as limited as it is!!!!
Riding bikes since I was 18 I have a big warmth towards Triumphs – still have one in my garage, a bike I would find hard part with it. Much of my time in the saddle these days is spent darting over to the West and just further a field.
I am a total virgin to the adventure riding and look forward to the Calum’s Road trip. The opportunity to go with these boys with all their experience can only add to the adventure and the memories to be made.
Other interests, skiing, sailing, diving, trekking in foreign parts (to placate the wife) food and drink the latter more often than not to excess.
The Machine
I took delivery of my first BMW R1200GS in March 2009, Namibia Orange, premium and dynamic packs, vario luggage.Extra parts ordered so far, engine bars, autocom, HID 50 lights, low seat for my stumpy legs.
