From Para to Dakar by Joey Evans is an extraordinary South African memoir about overcoming devastating injury, rebuilding a life around an almost impossible ambition, and ultimately competing in one of the world's most demanding motorsport events. Published by Tracey McDonald Publishers in 2017, this trade paperback runs to 264 pages and was released in October 2017. This copy is signed by Joey Evans, making it a particularly appealing example for collectors and admirers of inspirational sporting biographies.
Evans had loved motorcycles from childhood and dreamed of competing in the Dakar Rally, the legendary off-road endurance race covering thousands of kilometres across some of the world's most difficult terrain. In 2007, however, a serious racing accident left him with a spinal cord injury and paralysis from below the chest. Doctors initially gave him only a small chance of walking again.
Rather than abandoning his ambition, Evans embarked on an arduous programme of rehabilitation and training. His recovery became a long-term project requiring determination, physical effort and considerable support from his family and friends. From Para to Dakar follows this journey honestly, including the setbacks and difficult periods alongside the breakthroughs that gradually brought his Dakar dream back within reach.
The culmination came in 2017, when Evans reached the start line of the Dakar Rally in South America. Completing the approximately 9,000-kilometre event became another extraordinary chapter in his story, and he was the only South African biker to finish that year's Dakar Rally.
From Para to Dakar is therefore much more than a motorsport memoir. It is a story about resilience, friendship, courage, rehabilitation and refusing to allow a life-changing event to determine the limits of what remains possible. Evans's experience has subsequently informed his work as an inspirational speaker and adventurer.
This signed copy is an excellent choice for readers interested in the Dakar Rally, South African motorsport, adventure biographies, endurance racing and remarkable stories of overcoming adversity. From Para to Dakar is also an attractive collectible for followers of Joey Evans and inspirational sporting literature.
Condition: Very Good - Light wear and foxing present. Inscribed and signed by author.
