9TH RALLY EDITION: OCTOBER 10 – 19, 2024

#159

Whips & Waypoints

Erica and Alex wandered into each other’s lives in fall of 2021. With a mutual passion to compete in the Rebelle, they were introduced by Ted and J. B. of Overland Experts, and a couple of weeks later, Erica and Alex became teammates over pizza, a few beers, and a shared love of adventure and horses. Alex started riding horses when she was four, competing into her 20s. Erica is an accomplished equestrian with the resume to prove it. When it became time to decide on a team name, they wanted to pull their equestrian connection into the fold. Team Whips & Waypoints was born.

Even though we live in the same state, busy lives, attending to families and farms has made it difficult to find time to practice for the rally together. As a rookie team, we know we have an immense challenge ahead of us. We’re going in with open minds and a competitive spirit.
Sponsored By:

Overland Experts
Bradham Automotive
Moab 4×4 Academy
Friends & Family

Alex Gilman

Switching roles

A sarcastic New Yorker with a dash of southern charm, I’m always trusted for an honest, sometimes brutally honest, opinion. I never take myself too seriously as life is more fun when you can look back at yourself and laugh.

Occupation:

Project Manager, Compliance Coordinator

Residence:

Alexandria, VA

Favorite Quote:

“Read dozens of books about heroes and crooks and I’ve learned much from both of their styles” – Jimmy BuffetMy parents planned to sail around the world. I spent a good portion of my childhood on a sailboat. Fell overboard once in harbor after my dad forgot to close the railing.

Fun Fact:

My parents planned to sail around the world. I spent a good portion of my childhood on a sailboat. Fell overboard once in harbor after my dad forgot to close the railing.

Why the Rebelle? Why now?

I first heard of the Rebelle last summer. I thought it would be an amazing experience, but I didn’t believe I had the qualifications to do it. I received encouragement from friends familiar with the Rebelle and committed more time to off-roading over the next few months. I found happiness in the community and knew I had to jump on the opportunity to grow my skills. If I waited another year, I would have found more excuses so I made the “just go for it” decision and haven’t looked back.

Who, or what, inspires you most?

Exploring nature

Top three favorite podcasts / books / shows

The Dirtbag Diaries, The Great Blue Dream, Out Cold

Greatest adventure to date?

Backpacking in the Peruvian Andes.

Prior Years Competed:
Awards Achieved:

Erica Stevens

Switching roles

Equally comfortable guiding a Jeep up a mountain or a horse in pursuit of a fox, I try to experience all the wonders that life has to offer. Surrounded by supportive family and friends, I am truly blessed and share my perspective and adventures through photography.

Occupation:

Estate Manager & Non-profit Director

Residence:

Keswick, Virginia

Favorite Quote:

“Whatever you can do or dream you can, begin it. Boldness has genius, power, and magic in it!” - Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

Fun Fact:

I’ve ridden horses in ten different countries and have cared for three Olympic dressage horses who earned medals in Athens, Beijing, and Rio.

Why the Rebelle? Why now?

As the adage goes, no time like the present! I’ve always been a fan of Jeeps, off-road driving, and orienteering. From exploring with college friends on river bottoms and mine reclamation areas, restoring a CJ5 and CJ7, to learning proper recovery techniques on my new Rubicon JLU, the Rebelle is a prefect challenge.

Who, or what, inspires you most?

Biology

Top three favorite podcasts / books / shows

Hidden Brain, The Overstory (Richard Powers), Ferris Bueller’s Day Off

Greatest adventure to date?

Traveling the Inca Trail across the Andes by horseback.

Prior Years Competed:
Awards Achieved:

Vehicle

2020 Jeep Gladiator