Rookie Team 178: We Are The Storm is made up of two best friends who’ve shared more laughs, life events, and snacks than either of them could count. (Snacks are basically a personality trait for Sue.) The Rebelle Rally will be their boldest adventure yet.
Sue Runnells and Cheri Hudgins have been friends for over 25 years—despite never living in the same state—and their friendship has thrived on wildly fun plans, chaotic logistics, and an unshakable willingness to say “let’s do it!” They’re opposites in all the best ways—blonde and brunette, short and tall, mountain grit and coastal chill—but together they’re a force: one who builds the fire, and one who calmly plots the escape route if it spreads too far.
Sue, the Driver, lives at 9,786 feet above sea level in Copper Mountain, Colorado—where thin air, deep snow, and wild terrain are all part of the daily routine. She’s spent nearly two decades embracing an all-season lifestyle—everything from fresh powder to fields of alpine wildflowers. And Sue just turned 60, which only seems to have cranked the adventure dial up higher. She’s known for diving headfirst into the ridiculous (and ridiculously fun), like deciding to explore a promising-looking dirt road “just for a minute,” off-roading into the unknown with zero cell service, or turning a simple detour into an all-day adventure.
Raised just outside Detroit by a Ford engineer dad, Sue grew up around car culture—even if the tools and shop time were reserved for the boys. Still, the love of cars stuck with her. She’d always dreamed of owning a Land Rover Disco—so when the Rebelle Rally came into view, it gave her the perfect excuse to make that dream a reality, with OG Bobbie—a 25-year-old icon full of personality—as the perfect starting point.
Cheri, the navigator, brings a calm, strategic energy to the team. With over 20 years in the automotive industry, her love for cars was sparked early by watching her dad work on vehicles. Growing up, she was involved in everything from rebuilding drum brakes to learning the inner workings of a car. Her career in Human Resources gives her a grounded, problem-solving approach to every challenge, while her deep love for travel, photography, and the outdoors keeps her heart connected to nature. Cheri’s here to step out of her comfort zone and embrace a tough challenge — to prove that adventure has no expiration date and that it’s never too late to push the limits.
From chasing checkpoints to chasing Sue with a compass and a checklist, Cheri navigates it all with quiet confidence and sharp instincts. She’s the calm. Sue’s the storm. While Cheri’s adjusting the compass declination and keeping things grounded, Sue’s packing five bags of snacks and researching whether glitter counts as a navigational tool.
Their shared adventures include kayaking Lake Powell, skiing and snowboarding side by side, dropping into Utah’s slot canyons, and navigating the surreal terrain of White Pocket. The kind of trips that start as “why not?” and end as core memories. So when Cheri suggested the Rebelle Rally, Sue was all in before Cheri even finished the sentence. By the time Cheri said “no GPS,” Sue was already checking tire pressure and packing snacks.
This will be their first Rebelle—but their history of pushing limits together runs deep.
For Cheri, the Rebelle is about stepping into something that pushes her—mentally, physically, and emotionally.
“I’m in my late 50s, and while I haven’t done something quite like this before, I’ve always been a fierce believer in women doing tough, bold things. This is about proving to myself—and hopefully showing others—that adventure doesn’t have an age limit. It’s not about being the fastest or the best; it’s about showing up, digging deep, and embracing every part of the journey.”
For Sue, the Rebelle is about turning bold goals into action—and being intentional about showing up.
“I’ve spent my life quietly challenging expectations—breaking boundaries, shattering glass ceilings, and opening doors for women. Not from the sidelines, but by charging straight through the obstacles myself. But this time, I’m choosing to do it out loud. I want to show what’s possible, and create space for other women to follow—loudly, proudly, and without apology.”
Together, they’re not just showing up—they’re pushing limits, supporting each other, and proving that courage isn’t about having all the answers.
It’s about saying yes anyway.
They may be rookies—but make no mistake:
Team 178: We Are The Storm is rolling in hot, hopeful, and hilariously overprepared.
Pirelli, PACT Outdoors, British Car Barn, Discount Tire-Glenwood Springs, Inline Thermostats, Extinct Motorsports
I’m a Luxury Real Estate Broker in the mountains of Summit County, Colorado (Breckenridge, Keystone, Copper Mountain, Arapahoe Basin ski resorts and surrounding areas). I help people find their dream homes in the very place I feel most alive—surrounded by fresh mountain air, big adventures, and even bigger views.
Copper Mountain, Colorado
"The mountains are calling and I must go. – John Muir. Once you learn to quit, it becomes a habit. – Vince Lombardi"
I’m a full-blown Rink Rat. My dad worked for the Detroit Red Wings, my whole family was involved in hockey, and I pretty much grew up with the smell of Zamboni fumes in my nose and frozen toes in my boots. Eventually I became a figure skating coach and a power skating coach, because why pick one slippery skill when you can master them all? I even started competing in figure skating as an adult—because nothing says “midlife crisis” like sequins and toe picks at 40-something. Weird? Yes. Useful? Absolutely. Except… not really. Unless there’s an ice rink in the middle of the Rebelle desert. Also: I make organic homemade doggie treats from a recipe I created, which might be Antero’s favorite thing about me. And for bonus weirdness: we own five cars. Four of them are manuals. OG Bobbie is the first automatic I’ve driven since high school, and honestly, I’m still trying to figure out what to do with my left foot.
I’ve spent years encouraging other women to go after the wild thing—the intimidating goal, the bold move. And I’ve walked that walk myself—not quietly, but without needing to make a big announcement about it. I just did it—because it felt right, and because I believed women belonged in those spaces without needing permission. Now I’m stepping into the spotlight on purpose—because visibility matters. The Rebelle Rally is the boldest thing I’ve said yes to in a long time—and this time, I’m doing it loudly, clearly, and with every intention of shining a light for whoever needs it next. Also? I just turned 60. If not now, when?
Women who bet on themselves. Who take up space. Who lead by doing and are still willing to be beginners. That’s courage. And it’s contagious.
Podcasts: Scamfluencers, Against the Odds, Business Wars
Books: Anything by David Baldacci or Michael Connelly, plus historical biographies
TV Shows: Honestly, anything with a lot of seasons on Netflix so I can throw it on in the background while I work.
Besides climbing 100 feet up a tree to rescue my drone (because how else was I going to get the SD card?)…I’ve had a lot of amazing adventures. Kevin introduced me to the world of off-roading, BLM land, and National Parks over a decade ago. Together, we’ve canyoneered into narrow slot canyons, off-road RV’d in a totally not-equipped-for-it RV that looked straight out of Breaking Bad, and once had to be rescued while paddleboarding on Lake Powell when the wind made getting home impossible. But honestly? My greatest adventure has been recovering from breaking my back 20 months ago. Being flat on my back for eight weeks forced me to get real about strength, resilience, and patience. I’ve worked hard to rebuild the physical and mental grit I had before the injury. I’m 98% there—and chasing that last 2% with everything I’ve got.
I want to push my limits—and finish this competition knowing I gave it everything I had. As a driver. As a teammate to Cheri. And as a competitor. But even more, I want to be the kind of teammate and presence that lifts up the women around me. I’m here to show that adventure doesn’t have an expiration date—and that some spaces aren’t just for us... they’re better with us in them.
Anything outdoors. I snowboard, mountain bike, hike, cross-country ski, paddleboard, and off-road—with my 8lb sidekick Antero and my better-half, Kevin, by my side. My favorite kind of day? When one of us says, “Where does that road go?” and the other one answers, “I don’t know. Let’s take it and find out.” Especially during wildflower season—Colorado's backcountry puts on a ridiculous show. I also decorate cookies with architect-level detail—a skill I picked up after breaking my back. Watching YouTube tutorials was one of the few things I could do while stuck flat on my back for eight weeks, and I figured if I couldn’t move, I might as well learn something. And I started a company called Clean Me Up, Buttercup, based on the belief that if everyone picked up just three pieces of trash that wasn’t theirs, the backcountry would start looking a whole lot better—real fast. I designed the logo, printed it on reusable bags, and now hand out those bags—with the Clean Me Up, Buttercup logo front and center—to people I meet while hiking or off-roading. The bags are useful, the logo is cool, and the message sticks.
While I don’t have a motorsports background, I’ve been off-roading for years with Kevin, learning the ins and outs of vehicles, terrain, and travel. The Rebelle is pushing me deeper into that world—and I’m ready for it. I’ll even bring the snacks.
Where do I begin? I’ve paddleboarded across alpine lakes with Antero (who is not a fan of beavers swimming alongside us), canyoneered into many of Utah's slot canyons… hmmm… oh yeah, I'm also the poop bag fairy. You know the filled dog poop bags people leave behind on trails? Yeah, I’m the one who picks them up. You’re welcome.
Growing up just outside Detroit, cars were always part of the background—my dad was an engineer at Ford, and cars were a regular part of dinner table conversation. I wasn’t invited to wrench on anything (that was “for the boys”), but I soaked up everything around me and developed a serious appreciation for how cars look, sound, and function. My first car was a turquoise 1977 Mustang—1977 being a particularly sad year for the Mustang, when it had forgotten it was supposed to be a muscle car but hadn’t yet figured out what it wanted to be. The Smurfs had just hit the scene, and with my blonde hair and that turquoise car, it didn’t take long before people started calling me “Smurfette.”That early car may have been confused about its identity, but I wasn’t confused about mine. I’ve had a Land Rover Disco on my dream list for years—and when the Rebelle Rally came calling, it finally gave me the reason to say yes to OG Bobbie.
I work for an OEM and have been in the automotive industry for over 20 years, with a background in Human Resources. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to contribute to various OEMs, and today, I’m a senior manager of compensation and rewards. Working in the automotive industry is more than just a job to me — it’s a passion that’s been with me since childhood. My father was a huge car enthusiast, always tinkering with engines, rebuilding carburetors, swapping out hoses, and performing daily maintenance like changing spark plugs or oil. I grew up in that environment, and he started teaching me to drive at 13. By 14, I was already handling a stick shift (giving him a lot of grey hairs, no doubt!). Along the way, he instilled in me not only a love for cars but a curiosity for solving problems and a deep respect for the rules of the road — both defensive and spirited. When I was 12, my dad had me rebuilding drum brakes, carburetors, and changing oil — all the “fun” jobs, of course! His passion for cars and my own passion for helping others is what pushed me to seek a career in the automotive industry. Every day feels like a gift, and it’s incredibly fulfilling to be part of an industry that has shaped my life in such a profound way. Of course, working in HR has its ups and downs. You're not always the most popular person, but it’s rewarding to know that, behind the scenes, I’m contributing to equity and consistency in a way that helps the company and its people thrive. At the end of the day, I’m doing what I love in an industry that’s close to my heart, and that makes it all worth it.
San Juan Capistrano, California
"Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure," - Marianne Williamson “When everything seems to be going against you, remember that the airplane takes off against the wind, not with it.” ―Henry Ford
I’m definitely an animal lover — to the point where my husband says no more! We’ve got two dogs, two cats, and a horse. I can’t sit still for long, always needing to be on the go. Oh, and I cook a mean beef Wellington. I’ve also been to over 170 concerts, so many that I’ve honestly lost count. (Sorry, that’s more than one … I guess we could add ‘has trouble following directions').
Why not the Rebelle now? Honestly, I probably would have done it sooner if I’d known about it, but I only learned about it last year. Everything in my life has really pointed me toward the Rebelle. Over the past few years, my best friend and I have been doing more and more adventure trips that included off-roading, and we both felt that this would be an incredible experience to share together. The years from 2020 to 2024 were challenging for my family, and I was very focused on supporting them. But I realized I needed something for myself — something to reconnect with my adventurous, fun-loving side and remind myself that I can still take on big challenges. As I’ve participated in more training and events, what stands out most is the camaraderie. There’s something truly special about connecting with like-minded women who are all pushing themselves, supporting each other, and celebrating accomplishments together. It doesn’t matter whether you’re first or last; it’s about the determination, grit, and sense of pride that comes from finishing a challenge and knowing you gave it your all. The more I’ve learned about the Rebelle, Emily Miller, and the amazing people behind this endurance challenge, the more I realized that this is the kind of group and challenge I want to be a part of. I know I’ll continue to learn lifelong skills through Rebelle U and competing in this event, and I can’t wait to see where this journey takes me.
Oh, that’s a long list! First and foremost, my daughter — she’s taught me that love, empathy, and compassion always win. Her kindness and the way she navigates the world inspire me every day. My husband also inspires me with his grit, loyalty, and unwavering support. He meets me where I am and shows me daily what true partnership can do, giving me strength I never knew I had. I’m also deeply inspired by those who have faced adversity and risen above it with grace and resilience. Whether it's individuals who overcome personal struggles to achieve greatness, or those who use their platform to uplift others and spark change — like activists, advocates, and changemakers — their ability to remain steadfast, vulnerable, and powerful in the face of challenges pushes me to keep striving for more in my own life.
Books: This changes but right now: The Let Them Theory, by Mel Robbins and Sawyer Robbins; Always: The Stand; by Stephen King
TV Shows: Most recent – Lioness
My greatest adventure to date has been watching my daughter grow and discover the world around her. Every day with her feels like a new journey, from her first steps to the moments when she surprises me with her kindness, curiosity, and creativity. It's not just about the big milestones but the everyday wonders — her laughter, her sense of wonder, and the way she sees the world with fresh eyes. What stands out most is her fierce sense of justice. She gets deeply invested in causes that matter to her and has an unwavering determination to stand up for those who can't stand up for themselves. Whether it's defending a friend or speaking out against injustice, she embodies courage and compassion. This has inspired her to pursue a path that will allow her to make a real difference in the world — studying criminal psychology. I have no doubt that she will be a valuable force for good, fighting for justice and making a real impact in society.
The years from 2020 to 2024 were challenging, and I spent a lot of time prioritizing the needs of my loved ones. Now, I’m ready to reconnect with the part of me that’s determined, fearless, capable, and willing to fail in order to learn. I want to prove to myself that at 57, I can not only take on something new but something tough — physically, mentally, and emotionally challenging. I want to push through and come out on the other side stronger, more capable, and more confident in who I am. I know this experience will teach me lessons I haven’t even considered yet. If I’m not learning something new, then I’m not pushing my limits enough. My goal is to prove that adventure has no age limit, and that some spaces are made even better when we’re part of them.
How much time do you have? My interests are incredibly broad! One of my greatest passions is the ocean — whether it's whale watching, fishing, or just being on the water. I grew up water skiing in Northern California, and lake life has always been a big part of my life. The water brings me peace and adventure all at once. I’m also passionate about traveling and immersing myself in new cultures. My husband and I traveled to the Netherlands and Portugal last year, and we got married in Jamaica 20 years ago. I’ve also been to England, Mexico, and Canada, and we’re already planning our next big trip to Costa Rica in 2026. I only wish I had more time and resources to explore the world! Africa is definitely at the top of my travel list. Beyond travel, I have a deep love for the desert and mountains, especially for camping and off-roading. Being outdoors is essential to me, and there’s something about those wide-open spaces that calls to me. Photography is another passion of mine, though I’m still an amateur, and I absolutely love capturing moments through the lens. Music is another vital part of my life. I enjoy nearly every genre — from electronic and alternative to country, pop, yacht rock, rock, hip hop, and classical. But nothing compares to the energy of live music; I’ve never met a concert I didn’t enjoy. And when I’m not out exploring or attending a concert, I cherish simple moments, like walks on the beach with my husband or enjoying a cold brew with friends. I love anything that gets me outside, especially to places most people don’t venture. Creativity is another huge part of my life — whether it’s photography, crafts, building things, or fixing things, I’m always trying to create something new.
While I don’t have a formal motorsports background, I’ve always had a curiosity about it and an eagerness to learn more. I’ve enjoyed watching motorsports from time to time, but the right opportunity to join in the fun never really presented itself until later in life. Over the years, I’ve dabbled in off-roading and ridden quads in the dunes and backcountry of Southern California deserts in my 20s. However, it wasn’t until a few years ago that my friend Sue (who is our driver) reintroduced me to that particular love for adventure. I then introduced her to the Rebelle, and here we are, a year later, gearing up to take on the challenge. I’ve always been someone who pushes myself to try new, challenging, and adventurous things, and the Rebelle feels like the perfect way to step out of my comfort zone. I’m excited to see where this journey takes us and how we can grow through the experience.
Where do I start? I’ve had some incredible adventures. I’ve jumped out of a plane, ziplined through Jamaica, and even had the controls of a Cesna for a while (I think that counts as flying, right?). I’ve flown in a glider, ridden quads through the California desert, and kayaked down the Colorado River in several places — including Lake Powell, Horseshoe Bend, and the Hoover Dam. I’ve also run several half marathons and hit the slopes in Colorado, Lake Tahoe, Whistler/Blackcomb, and the Utah mountains. I’ve always loved seeking out new challenges and experiences, so you could say I’ve been pretty active with my adventures.
Yes, absolutely. Some of my earliest and most vivid memories are of my dad hunched over a car, grease on his face, lost in the process of fixing something. He was always working on a sports car or hot rod, and he never hesitated to share that love with his only child — me. My dad taught me that I could do anything, how to problem-solve, and how to fix things — all through the world of cars. He also taught me to drive, which, looking back, must have been pretty nerve-wracking for him! In fact, my driver’s ed teacher used me as an example for the other students. But beyond just the mechanics of driving, my dad instilled in me the unspoken rules of the road, the importance of courtesy toward other drivers, and how to drive with both offense and defense in mind. One of the most special things my dad did was take me on spontaneous road trips. He would wake me up in the middle of the night and tell me we were going for a drive — whether it was to Shasta Lake, Reno, or some unknown, undiscovered place. These drives were about the journey, not the destination, and they shaped my love for road trips and exploring. It’s something that’s carried over into my adult life, and now I do road trips just for fun. In 2021, I even started doing midnight drives with my daughter to help calm her anxiety. Just like my dad did for me, I wanted to share that sense of peace and adventure with her. That love for cars and driving has stuck with me my entire life. Over the years, I’ve owned and driven many cars, and when given the choice, I’ve always opted for a manual. There's something about the feel of it, the control, and the sheer fun of it — but more than anything, it’s a lasting memory of my dad and the lessons he taught me.
