9TH RALLY EDITION: OCTOBER 10 – 19, 2024

#135

Team YOLO

After unplanned events affected each of us we were both in search of a teammate. We connected with each other in May, just 5 months before the rally. Raelynn and her husband traveled to Texas so that we could meet in person over the Memorial Day weekend. It was like getting together with friends you had known for years. We made our team official and then laughed as we both said it felt like we had been preparing for the biggest job interview we ever had! We got together again for a training opportunity at the end of August 2022 and found working together came easy and felt natural. We both feel blessed to have made the connection and to be on this incredible journey together.

Sponsored By:

Johnson Automotive
Exodus 4×4
Lamb’s Tire and Automotive
Sun Auto Service
Eye Boutique of Sedona, Dr. Carolyn Martin
Gear America
Sticky Vinylz
Alpha Print Services
Alamo Firearms, LLC.
Rhino USA
DropLead Gorgeous
Summit Machine

Sheila Long

Driver

I am a lover of all things outdoors. Whether it is hunting, fishing, off-road activities or plain yard work I am happiest outside. I am a caregiver by nature and truly love helping those in need. I do a lot in community service and participate in disaster response in my off time.

Occupation:

Registered Nurse

Residence:

Smithville, Texas

Favorite Quote:

“Hope and fear cannot occupy the same space. Invite one to stay.” — Maya Angelou

Fun Fact:

When I was 18 I helped rebuild a 1976 Corvette. I am also afraid of flying but have jumped out of a perfectly good airplane TWICE!!!

Why the Rebelle? Why now?

I have followed the Rebelle for years and always wanted to be a part of such an epic adventure, but the timing was never right. I became an empty nester during covid. I can't think of a better way to start this new chapter in my life than to join the ranks of so many amazing women!

Who, or what, inspires you most?

My kids! They are amazing young men and to see them navigate this crazy world and make their own path amazes me each and every day. I am also inspired by all the women in my life (my mom, grandmothers and great grandmothers, my aunt) who taught me invaluable lessons and skills to be the woman I am today.

Top three favorite podcasts / books / shows

Chopped and MasterChef (cooking is my next favorite thing)
Survivor (I would LOVE to do this!)
The Grand Tour (these guys are hilarious and I love cars!!)

Greatest adventure to date?

Being a mom!! There are definitely ups and downs with being a parent but watching my boys grow up into three great young men has been my greatest adventure and achievement.

Prior Years Competed:
Awards Achieved:

Raelynn Roderick

Navigator

She has been an adventurer since childhood, taking her first pack trip in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, with her family, at the age of 3. She has always been drawn to the outdoors and loves to take road trips often. She also enjoys traveling and spending time with her husband and 3 Labrador Retrievers.

Occupation:

Graphic Designer

Residence:

Prescott Valley, AZ

Favorite Quote:

“There’s no shame in failing. The only shame is not giving things your best shot.” Robin Williams

Fun Fact:

She is currently writing and illustrating a children’s book about an ostrich named Oliver P. Strootheo

Why the Rebelle? Why now?

Besides the adventure aspect, she is drawn to the diverse community of women who are the Rebelle Rally. It will be such an honor to be a part of this amazing group of women taking this trek across the desert together.

Who, or what, inspires you most?

I am inspired most by my mother. She has always been a strong woman who faces a challenge head on. She has been my biggest cheerleader and has always encouraged me to push through when life gets difficult. We call her Tough As Nails because she’s a fighter and she never gives up.

Top three favorite podcasts / books / shows

(Podcast) Life is Short with Justin Long, (Book) New Teeth by Simon Rich, (Show) Breaking Bad and Dexter

Greatest adventure to date?

Traveling to Alaska during winter to see the Aurora Borealis

Prior Years Competed:
Awards Achieved:

Vehicle

YOLO

2021 Snazzberry Jeep Gladiator Rubicon