Tobi and Cara met in the chaos that is life as moms and business owners. Their kids are around the same age, and both families share a love for the outdoors, camping and exploring Montana. In 2023, Tobi signed up for the Rebelle Rally, and Cara jumped in as her navigator. It ignited a competitive spark, and now, the two are hooked on the rally’s unique format and camaraderie. Over the last 2 rally’s, they’ve supported each other through countless trials and triumphs, and are excited to take on the 10th anniversary together. Additionally, they added another shared achievement to their list this year when they both completed the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses intensive program.
Aquasource Drilling, Rolling Big Power Tire (RBP Tires), Bronco Outfitters, Northwest Pipe Fittings of Montana, Turn Offroad, Ford Grassroots
I’m Tobi Hlavnicka, business owner, CEO, and mother of three with a passion for adventure and the outdoors. Whether I’m running a business, off-roading in the Montana backcountry, or chasing new experiences with my family, I’m always driven by curiosity, grit, and a love for exploration.
I’m the co-owner, CEO, and a licensed water well contractor at Aquasource Drilling, based in Great Falls, Montana. Our company specializes in drilling water wells, installing pump systems, and managing nearly every aspect of groundwater services. As one of the few women in a leadership role within the water well drilling industry, I’m passionate about paving the way for others. I'm an active member of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) and enjoy mentoring and encouraging women to explore the many rewarding opportunities in the construction field.
Great Falls, MT
University of Great Falls (2015, Elementary Education), Concordia University Nebraska (2017, Master's Degree in Literacy), North Dakota State University (2022, Master's Degree in Construction Project Management), 10KSB Goldman Sachs/Babson College (2025)
"“First you jump off the cliff and build your wings on the way down”" — Ray Bradbury
I went from teaching middle school language arts to owning and managing a water well drilling company. I still love literature and try to read at least 100 books every year.
Two years ago, we entered our first Rebelle Rally in 2023 with no idea what to expect, our only goal was to make it to the finish line. Now, after two incredible and successful rallies, I’m completely hooked.
I’m constantly inspired by the strong women around me, especially my mother, an emergency room doctor whose drive and resilience have shaped who I am. Watching her push herself to excel both professionally and personally, no matter the challenges, has set a powerful example that I strive to live up to every day.
1. Harry Potter & the Goblet of Fire2. Blink by Malcolm Gladwell3. The Amazing Race
My greatest adventure to date has been competing in the Rebelle Rally for the past two years. Each year has pushed me mentally, physically, and emotionally in ways I never expected. I have learned something new about myself every year. It’s been a journey of growth and empowerment, and each rally has left me more confident and capable than the last.
2023, 2024
My main competitive goal for this year’s Rebelle Rally is to finish each day knowing I gave it everything I had, mentally, physically, and emotionally. We’ve grown stronger with each year we’ve competed, and I truly believe this will be our best year yet. I have no doubt that we’re capable of finishing in the top five, and we’re ready to prove it.
Outside of work, exploring is my greatest passion. I love traveling to new places, immersing myself in different cultures, and experiencing as much of the world as I can. Whether I’m out for a run, reading, or crocheting, I enjoy doing it all with fresh scenery around me, there’s something special about combining my favorite hobbies with the adventure of a new backdrop.
While I don’t have a formal background in motorsports, I’ve been off-roading in Montana for over 15 years and have spent my entire career around heavy equipment. From navigating rugged terrain in the mountains regularly, I’ve developed a deep understanding of vehicle capability, terrain reading, and mechanical awareness. That hands-on experience shapes how I approach the Rebelle, confident in my ability to handle challenging environments, troubleshoot in the field, and push through tough conditions with grit and adaptability.
I love combining travel with running adventures. It’s my favorite way to experience new places. I’ve completed half marathons in some of the most breathtaking national parks, including Glacier, Zion, and Mount Rainier, each offering unforgettable views and challenging terrain. While exploring Costa Rica and Croatia, I took on multiple 15K races, running through lush rainforests, coastal roads, and historic towns. There’s something incredibly rewarding about pushing your limits while immersed in the beauty and culture of a new destination.
My favorite terrain is anywhere surrounded by Joshua trees. After a tough day during our first year, a Rebelle staff member told me that Joshua trees always look like they're cheering you on—and that moment stuck with me. Now, every time I drive through them, I’m reminded of that encouragement, and it instantly lifts my spirits and turns the day around.
The most challenging part of the Rebelle Rally for me is transitioning back to everyday life once it’s over. After days of intense focus, constant problem-solving, and living in a high-adrenaline, goal-driven mindset, it’s tough to shift gears. Returning to a regular routine feels almost surreal, like your brain is still out there chasing checkpoints in the desert.
The Rebelle Rally has shown me just how capable I truly am. I’ve always been independent, and stubborn, but the challenges of the Rally pushed me to an entirely new level. Out there, navigating rugged terrain, solving problems on the fly, and adapting to the unexpected, you tap into a strength you didn’t know you had. One of the most defining moments came during our first year, when a tire came off the rim in the middle of Glamis, on the final day, just 30 minutes from the finish, in 115-degree heat. With the clock ticking and the sand working against us, we had no choice but to dig in, stay calm, and get the job done. That moment tested us in every way, and coming out the other side, we didn’t just survive, we grew. And in that growth, I discovered just how strong and capable I really am.
Some of my favorite memories growing up are spontaneous drives with my dad in his restored Land Cruiser. Hopping in without a plan and just heading out to explore was our way of bonding and it made every ride feel like an adventure. When I got my license, I drove everywhere in my 4Runner just to be behind the wheel. That sense of freedom and connection stuck with me, and now it’s something I share with my own kids. Whether we're off-roading or just taking the long way home, cars have always been my way of embracing spontaneity and making memories with the people I love most.
I am principal architect at a small commercial architecture firm. I spend my days analyzing and coordinating complex information on large-scale projects. This role requires balancing technical precision with creative problem-solving, often working with a variety of consultants and stakeholders. The skill of considering multiple layers of information at once is invaluable, both in the office and on the Rebelle Rally course. In the rally, being able to read maps and quickly process information is a huge advantage. Every challenge, whether in architecture or rally navigation, involves understanding the bigger picture while staying focused on the details, and that's something I thrive on.
Great Falls, MT
University of Idaho BS & Masters of Architecture, Goldman Sachs 10K Small Businesses Program
"Perhaps at a certain perspective what we leave behind is often wonderland, always different from what it was and generally more beautiful" — Norman Maclean
I gave myself my first black eye while ice climbing with my husband.
The Rebelle format gives me a rare opportunity to fully focus and disconnect for over a week, something that’s nearly impossible in everyday life. Even though the event is incredibly high-stress, it offers a refreshing break from my daily routine and pushes me to improve my skills year after year.
Being a role model for my two daughters inspires me the most. I want them to see that they can achieve anything, no matter the challenge.
Podcast – The CarpoolBook – Onyx Storm
The Rebelle Rally has been my greatest adventure, which is why we’re pulled to come back year after year. Each experience pushes my limits, both physically and mentally.
2023, 2024
I am incredibly competitive and driven to do the best we possibly can. After being just 1 point away from Stage 1 win last year, I’m eager for us to clinch a top stage spot this year.
Outside of work, I’m passionate about spending time with my family. We love exploring Montana, whether it's camping, fishing, or simply enjoying the natural landscapes around our home. Competing in the Rebelle Rally in 2023 reignited my competitive spirit, and a month later, I tried pickleball. I now play weekly and it has become a fun and competitive outlet for me, offering a great balance of physical activity and strategy.
I do not have a background in motorsports, I grew up showing cow horses and competing in HS rodeo.
My husband and I love exploring Montana, and some of my most fond memories are from long hikes into the backcountry, carrying float tubes to flyfish on pristine mountain lakes.
I love the open spaces with unique features like Ridgecrest, it is so helpful to know exactly where you are on the map.
By far, the hardest day for me was on the evening of day 6 in 2024. After an early start and a full day in the dunes, we were given 30+ CPs to plot. The sun set quickly, and the sand was blowing over everything. My brain was so exhausted that I kept catching myself making mistakes while plotting. I finally gave up around 10 p.m. and decided to leave the rest for the next morning. When I tried to replot everything the following day, I quickly ran out of time, which resulted in some missed points on our last day. It was a reminder of how important mental stamina and time management are in this race.
The rally has taught me that I can still learn and excel at new things. I’m especially proud of teaching myself how to navigate, plot, and read a compass. The experience has boosted my confidence in my abilities and has inspired me to carve out more time for myself, even when my kids and work demand so much of my attention. It’s a reminder that taking care of yourself is essential for success in all areas of life, and I’m excited to come back and continue challenging myself.
My first car was a first gen manual Toyota Tacoma. It was a fun rig to drive to school and around the family ranch. I wish I still had it.
