9TH RALLY EDITION: OCTOBER 10 – 19, 2024

#101

Team Pony Express

We met in 2021 through a ladies campout group. As a long-time fan of the Rebelle Rally, Kristen was excited when she heard that Avis was preparing to compete in 2022. During one of our conversations, we both agreed to partner up in the future if the opportunity came up. Fast forward to 2023, when that opportunity presented itself. Avis was in need of a new partner, to which Kristen replied with an excited “definitely!” The past year as a team has been challenging as we have been busy practicing our driving and navigation skills, outfitting our rally vehicle, and providing content for our generous sponsors. We are excited to see our hard work and dedication pay off during the Rally.

Sponsored By:

Opt Offroad
Rock Jock 4×4
Freel Good Performance
BTF Fabrication
Warn Industries
Fab Fours Inc
Kanati Tires
Factor 55
Waterloo Wraps
Gorilla Dirt
Hammer Performance
Baja Designs

Avis Cook

Navigator

I'm an adventure seeking, never stop learning kind of girl. Living in the heart of Southern Utah, I've embraced the thrill of overlanding, off-road journeys, and mountain biking.

Occupation:

Realtor

Residence:

Santa Clara UT USA

Favorite Quote:

"Love her but leave her wild"

Fun Fact:

I'm married to my high school sweetheart!

Why the Rebelle? Why now?

Last year I was a rookie, and I had a good year, but I'm always learning and always believing "I can do that better". So, I spent the year between developing stronger skills and reviewing where I could improve from last year. So here we are again with the chance to roll all of those life skills, navigation skills and team skills out to the ultimate test once again.

Who, or what, inspires you most?

I'm inspired by a good challenge. Be it learning something new or taking the things I already know and using them to their fullest. I'm fortunate to have the support of my husband Rob who encourages me in MOST of my crazy ideas, the others were probably not safe!

Top three favorite podcasts / books / shows

Survivor
The Why Files
Anything Food Network

Greatest adventure to date?

We took 2 of our kids on a family overloading trip from Central Virginia, to Deadhorse Alaska, then down through Flagstaff Arizona before heading back to Virginia. The Brooks Range is something the whole crew talks about to this day.

Prior Years Competed:

2022

Awards Achieved:

Kristen Harbert

Driver

I love being out in nature exploring, camping, and off-roading especially in the desert. Pushing myself and my vehicle in offroad environments is the best way to have a good time.

Occupation:

Co-owner of Opt Offroad

Residence:

Joshua Tree CA, USA

Favorite Quote:

“Life should not be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well-preserved body but rather to skid in broadside in a cloud of smoke, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming, “Wow! What a ride!” -Hunter S. Thompson

Fun Fact:

I’m a twin and grew up on an off-grid ranch.

Why the Rebelle? Why now?

I’ve watched the Rebelle for a few years and love watching the teamwork between driver and navigator. I also appreciate its inclusivity for all types of vehicles from AWD to 4WD, and the mentality that your stock vehicle sitting in your driveway is more capable than you realize. Why now? It just all came together last year. A good teammate, the right vehicle, and funds from our sponsors including our own business Opt Offroad.

Who, or what, inspires you most?

This person has been there for me since high school, and has encouraged and supported me in more ways than I thought possible. The example set in their life and career has always pushed me to be stronger and braver, and inspired me to believe that I can do anything I set my mind to. This person is my husband, Jason Harbert.

Top three favorite podcasts / books / shows

How about one of each! Favorite podcast: The Average Overlanders Podcast. Favorite Books: Lord of the Rings. Favorite show: The Office.

Greatest adventure to date?

My family’s Utah adventures top the list! From rock crawling in Sand Hollow to traversing the White Rim trail, its an amazing state with breathtaking views and challenging trails. Our day on Hells Revenge in Moab was especially memorable. A brake failure on our 96 4Runner resulted in a rollover, but we were able to recover it and finish the trail under its own power. We discovered just how resilient we could be as a family as we were back hitting more trails two days later.

Prior Years Competed:
Awards Achieved:

Vehicle

2022 Ford Bronco