10TH RALLY EDITION: OCTOBER 8 – 18, 2025

#173

Thor’s Trailblazers

We first met during the 2024 Rebelle and immediately bonded as navigators—sharing jokes, saving each other seats at meals, and table space in the mornings to plot. We quickly realized our natural chemistry, and were thrilled to officially team up when Gloria decided to step into the driver’s seat. Since then, we’ve had a blast training together in Texas and we’re beyond excited to put it all together at the Rebelle this October.

Sponsored By:

Pirelli, Penzoil, Thor Offroad, MRT, h3rperformance, Noble Realty, Sandy Cats, Pro Eagle, Dv8, turn off road, armadillo designs, break free travel escapes, drive on Kat scholarship, Ford

What is your occupation and what does that mean to you?

I’m a retired Army veteran, and that experience gave me discipline, grit, and the ability to stay calm when things get tough. These days, I’m also a content creator, which means I get to share stories and adventures with a wider community. To me, both roles are about connection, perseverance, and pushing boundaries which is exactly what the Rebelle Rally represents.

Residence:

Georgetown Tx

Are you active or retired military? If so, which branch?

Retired Army

Favorite Quote:

"Respond to every call that excites your spirit." — Rumi

Fun Fact:

I played the trumpet in the Army band

Why the Rebelle? Why now?

Life is about saying yes to the experiences that scare and excite you, and the Rebelle Rally is exactly that. Now felt like the right time to combine my love of adventure, problem-solving, and teamwork into one unforgettable journey.

Who, or what, inspires you most?
Top three favorite podcasts / books / shows
Greatest adventure to date?

Competing in last years Rebelle Rally.

Prior Years Competed:

2024

What makes you tick, outside of work?

Outside of work, my biggest passion is adventure! Whether that’s exploring trails in my Bronco, traveling with my family, or just finding new experiences that push me outside my comfort zone.

What is your background in motorsports, and how does that shape how you're approaching the Rebelle?

My background in motorsports comes from being an off-road enthusiast. I’ve spent countless hours behind the wheel of my Bronco, exploring trails and learning how vehicles respond in different terrain. That hands-on experience gives me confidence in approaching the Rebelle with adaptability and a willingness to problem-solve in the moment.

What kind of cool experiences do you have outside of the Rebelle?

Before discovering off-road rallies, I served as a paratrooper in the U. S. Army. Leaping from planes and embracing the unknown gave me a love for challenge, a fearless mindset, and a thirst for adventure that still drives me today.

How has the rally changed you and what made you want to come back?

The rally reminded me that adventure is best when it challenges every part of your mind, body, and spirit. I’m coming back because nothing beats that feeling of navigating the unknown, pushing limits, and laughing through it all.

Julia Bigwood

Navigator
What is your occupation and what does that mean to you?

Full time PhD student finishing up my dissertation on how climate change impacts topical ecosystems. My dissertation work aims to help conserve and protect broadleaf evergreen forests.

Residence:

Los Angeles CA

If you attended college or University where did you go and what was your major?

PhD Student at UCLA studying Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences

Favorite Quote:

“Well behaved women seldom make history” — Laurel Thatcher Ulrich

Fun Fact:

I play the trumpet and sing!

Why the Rebelle? Why now?

Why not?

Who, or what, inspires you most?

My family always inspires me to be the best version of myself. I’d especially like to thank my parents, sister, grandparents, and friends for their unconditional love and support.

Top three favorite podcasts / books / shows
Greatest adventure to date?

Competing in the Rebelle!

Prior Years Competed:

2020, 2022, 2024

What are your competition objectives and why?

To do my best, learn from my mistakes, and form a lifelong bond with my teammate.

What makes you tick, outside of work?

I love spending my free time running or playing beach volleyball!

What is your background in motorsports, and how does that shape how you're approaching the Rebelle?

My Motorsport experience has exclusively consisted of the Rebelle, but I’m beyond grateful for all that it’s taught me!

What kind of cool experiences do you have outside of the Rebelle?

Hiked my second 14’er this year (mt Shasta), and I’m excited to compete in the LA marathon this spring for my annual marathon!

Which terrain is your favorite part of the course and why?

The rocky mountainous terrain will forever have my heart 😍

What is the most challenging part of the Rally for you?

Reminding myself not to be a perfectionist!!!

How has the rally changed you and what made you want to come back?

The Rally is a wonderful way to reset. I’ve been able to learn so much about cars, navigation, and myself. I always want to come back for the opportunity to keep learning and growing, and of course have fun.

Vehicle

2022 Ford Bronco