“Total Chaos Fabrication builds what I believe is the best aftermarket suspension components available and is woman owned” - Emily Miller. Total Chaos is fully involved in the Rebelle Rally both as event partner and in the competition with 7 teams whose cars are modified with its products. Let's find out the details of this interesting story.

Photography and Story by Paolo Baraldi

Total Chaos Fabrication, one of the key partners of Rebelle Ralle,  has supported the rally since its inception in 2016. Total Chaos brings more than just sponsorship to the table—they bring a deep, hands-on involvement that has been integral to the success of the rally year after year.

"Total Chaos has been with us from the very beginning, and their unwavering support and dedication are a cornerstone of the Rebelle Rally experience," said Emily Miller, founder of the Rebelle Rally. "Their vehicles, equipped with industry-leading suspension systems, have been vital in pre-running and scouting thousands of miles of terrain since day one. Nicole Pitell-Vaughan, co-owner of Total Chaos, has been right there along the way. Their commitment to excellence in off-road performance is evident in everything they do, and I absolutely trust their equipment and expertise."

Total Chaos is known for its high-quality, hand-crafted suspension systems that are built to last. Their parts, made in the USA, are designed for durability and performance, ensuring that vehicles equipped with Total Chaos components can handle the most extreme conditions. This level of reliability and craftsmanship has made Total Chaos the go-to choice for off-road enthusiasts, from the Dakar Rally to the Baja 1000 to epic overland journeys. “I have great respect that they have remained a family-owned company and continue to make their parts in America."

Beyond providing top-tier suspension systems, Total Chaos has played an essential role in the Rebelle Rally's day-to-day operations. Their vehicles have served as the official media transportation service, offering memorable rides for VIPs, media, and staff as they move across the desert. On the main dune stage of the rally, which Total Chaos proudly sponsors, their team is there to assist, ensuring that the event runs smoothly until the very end.

"As a 51% woman-owned company, we are proud to support an event that elevates women in the off-road community," said Nicole Pitell-Vaughan, co-owner of Total Chaos. "Our passion for adventure and off-road drives us to innovate and hand-craft premium bolt-on performance suspension systems and accessories that are 100% Made in the USA. The Rebelle Rally is a proving ground for our products – and it is an incredible event for everyone who is involved.”

As the Rebelle Rally continues to grow and push the limits of what's possible in off-road navigation, Total Chaos remains a trusted partner, dedicated to supporting the rally and its competitors with the ‘best in off-road’ suspension technology.

During the Rebelle Rally, Nicole and her team are present to support the staff and the media crew. Thanks to Total Chaos' high-performance vehicles, it is easy for the media, especially in the Glamis dunes, to follow the racing vehicles. This year Nicole drove the Morocco Taco while Miki Allen the Scrambled Egg allowing photographers and videographers to shoot amazing images.

Morocco Taco specifications:

2014 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab 4WD

Front Suspension:

- TOTAL CHAOS +2” Expedition Series Long Travel Kit

- TOTAL CHAOS 4340 Axleshafts

- TOTAL CHAOS Secondary Shock Hoops

- TOTAL CHAOS Heavy Duty Spindle Gussets

- TOTAL CHAOS Alignment Cam Tab Gussets

- King-TC LT Specific 2.5” Coilover Shocks

- King-TC LT Specific 2.5” External Bypass Shocks w/ Quick Adjust Knobs

Rear Suspension/Axle:

- DMZ Fab & Race Prep SUA Kit

- Deaver SUA Leafsprings

- King 2.5” x 14” External Bypass Shocks w/ Quick Adjust Knobs

- Custom TOTAL CHAOS Under the Bed Shock Hoops

- TOTAL CHAOS Bolt-on Rear Bumpstop Mounting Kit

- King 2.0” Hydraulic Bumpstops

- 1.50" Synergy wheel spacers

- TOTAL CHAOS +2” Long Travel Swaybar

Body/Exterior:

- Glassworks Unlimited Fiberglass Front Fenders

- TOTAL CHAOS Custom Fiberglass Bumper Pods

- Glassworks Unlimited Rear Bedsides

- Paint by Mike Callaway

Wheels/Tires:

- TRD Wheels 16”x8”

- BF Goodrich A/T KO2 315/75R16

Other Equipment:

- TRD 4.0L Supercharger

- K&N Custom FilterCharger - Custom TOTAL CHAOS Front Bumper/Skidplate

- Warn Winch

- Baja Designs Squadron XL’s on electric actuator

- Baja Designs LED Work Lights, Dust Lights, Dome Lights

- Custom TOTAL CHAOS Rear Bumper

- Synergy Sit, Shower, Shave Kit

- Custom TOTAL CHAOS Aluminum Fresh Water Tank

Scrambled Egg specifications:

2013 Tundra 4x4 Platinum Crewmax

Front Suspension:

- Total Chaos 4WD Long Travel System

- 2.5" Fox Coilover Shocks

- 2.5" Fox External Bypass Shocks

- 4340 Axleshafts

Rear Suspension/Axle:

- Total Chaos Rear Long Travel Spring Under Axle Suspension

- 3.0" Fox External Bypass Shocks

- 2.5" Fox Bumpstops

Engine:

- Toyota 5.7L 3UR-FE V8

- K&N FIPK Intake System

Interior:

- Heated & A/C Leather Seats

- Back Up Camera & Sun Roof

- Icom V-8000 Race Radio

Body/Extertior:

- Glassworks Fiberglass Fenders

- Glassworks Fiberglass Bedsides

- Custom Paint by Streight Edge Designs

- TC Custom Built Bumpers, Skidplate and Spare Tire Rack

- Baja Designs stealth LED Lightbar, Squadron LED Fog Lights and (3) Lapaz HID Lights

- Grillcraft Grill w/ Toyota Emblem

- Yeti Tundra Cooler and Plano Workbox in Custom Mounts

- Baja Designs SII Rear Facing Amber and Work Lights

- Rotopax Gas Cans in Custom Mount

- Hidden Retractable Bedstep

- Wolf Liner

Wheels/Tires:

- TRD Forged Beadlock Offroad Wheels

- BF Goodrich A/T KO2 37x12.50R17

Total Chaos's participation in the Rebelle Rally certainly does not end as a partner. From behind the scenes, TC becomes the protagonist of the competition with 7 teams that have equipped their vehicles with the products created by Nicole Pitell-Vaughan and Matt Vaughan.

Here we go to know more about these 5 teams and their cars.

#152 Chaos Finders

This is Samantha and Becky’s fourth year competing in the Rebelle Rally. Early in 2020, a friend told Sam about Rebelle. She followed the preparations of the Rally teams all year and watched the competition in October 2020. Inspired by the event, she quickly asked Becky Brophy to be her teammate, and they started training with Rebelle U to compete in 2021. Prior to this, the pair had very little experience off road, and no experience with map and compass navigation. The 2021 Rally was a huge success for Sam and Becky, returning home with a top 10 finish and “Rookie of the Year” award. Rebelle Rally 2022 was full of new challenges for Becky and Sam but they were able to land a podium finish. For 2023 Rebelle, they earned a stage win in a Bone Stock 4Runner. This year Samantha and Becky are looking forward to expanding their experience with TOTAL CHAOS FABRICATION mid travel suspension in a purpose built 2024 Toyota Tacoma.

Becky Brophy – Driver

Three of my favorite things are the outdoors, music, and sports. I really enjoy learning new things and helping people.

Occupation:

Toyota Senior Engineer

Residence:

Georgetown, KY

Favorite Quote:

Try not to suck - Chaos

Fun Fact:

My husband and I got married in Costa Rica.

Why the Rebelle? Why now?

Because it's the coolest thing I've ever done. Can't stop, won't stop.

Who, or what, inspires you most?

Mark Rober - I admire his work ethic. He is such a proponent about helping the environment and teaching kids about STEM.

Top three favorite podcasts / books / shows

Doctor Who

Schitt’s Creek

Spongebob Squarepants

Greatest adventure to date?

Rebelle Rally

Prior Years Competed:

2021, 2022, 2023

Awards Achieved:

2021: Rookie of the Year, 2022: 3rd place, 2023: stage win

Samantha Barber - Navigator

I live on a horse farm in Kentucky. My husband and I have 2 incredible daughters. I have a strong passion for developing myself and others.

Occupation:

Toyota Senior Manager

Residence:

Frankfort, KY

Favorite Quote:

You can fail at what you don't want. So you might as well take a chance on doing what you love. - Jim Carrey

Fun Fact:

I have 2 engineering degrees and love training horses.

Why the Rebelle? Why now?

Rebelle Rally is a way to challenge so many aspects of how I think and push myself. I love that Rebelle is a competition that is all about accuracy and strategy.

Who, or what, inspires you most?

I am inspired most when I can help someone achieve a goal of theirs.

Top three favorite podcasts / books / shows

GOOP- Gyneth x Brene: On the Roots of Shame, Courage and Vulnerability

First, Break all the Rules – Curt Coffman

No Ceiling, No Walls – Susan Colantuono

Greatest adventure to date?

Life - Every aspect of it is a daily adventure. I cherish all that I get to do and experience.

Prior Years Competed:

2021, 2022, 2023

Awards Achieved:

2021: Rookie of the Year, 2022: 3rd place, 2023: stage win

#166 Heck Yeah

We’re a couple of best friends determined to get the most out of what’s left of our lives! We might seem like an unlikely duo because of our diverse backgrounds — the owner of a construction supply company that’s out building bridges and roads (@kwonn6) and a former resort president on the Las Vegas Strip (@rwest702), but we share a common core that has forged an unbreakable friendship – we both love adventures and we aren’t afraid to make mistakes and take risks. Showing up to the rally last year with almost no practice under our belt and a vague understanding of navigation felt like getting a sip of water from a firehose! If you only look at the stats, our lack of preparation showed. But for us, we stay true to our core and crushed our goals – “stay friends, have fun and finish.” This year we’re recycling those goals with the expectation of doing it all better! Although it’s hard to pinpoint how Rebelle changed us- maybe it’s simply realizing that life is now and even when we don’t feel ready, our answer is always Heck Yeah!

Karen Wonnenberg - Driver

I founded and operate a construction supply company that is part of just about every road and bridge project in the state of California. I'm married and have 2 beautiful, grown daughters and I'm an eternal optimist! No matter what the challenge, I just know that somehow I can figure out a solution!

Occupation:

Business owner

Residence:

El Dorado Hills, CA

Favorite Quote:

Do what you have to do so you can do what you want to do! --kwonn

Fun Fact:

When I was 8 years old, Gene Cernan, Apollo 10 astronaut/pilot of the lunar module and the last person to walk on the moon visited our home in the Oregon sand dunes. I got to drive him around in the sand in our buggy to help him prepare for driving on the moon. He got stuck, I didn't.

Why the Rebelle? Why now?

We are not promised tomorrow - the older I get, the more I realize I have to be intentional about how I use my time. On January 1 I turned 60, sold my business and now I enter a new phase that will be rich with experiences and connections.When you're in the game, Rebelle requires your full attention. It would be easy to wait until there was time for all of the preparation, but we don't have time - life is now.

Who, or what, inspires you most?

Even in death, my mom continues to inspire me. Through the difficult and painful days and nights of cancer, she was always sweet, lovely and interested in other people. Just because you're not having your best day, doesn't mean you get to be unpleasant to others.

Top three favorite podcasts / books / shows

All In podcast

The Power of One

Shameless

Greatest adventure to date?

Rebelle Rally 2022! Completely unprepared and sick, we met our goals - stay friends, have fun and finish!

Prior Years Competed:

2022, 2023

Renee West - Navigator

I used to be a hard-charging, schedule and budget driven CEO on the Las Vegas Strip. Today, my favorite people call me Nana and I spend my time having fun and lingering with the people I love the most. Nothing excites me more than an adventure with "loose" plan because then EVERYTHING is possible!

Occupation:

Retired Sr Executive, MGM Resorts

Residence:

Las Vegas, NV

Favorite Quote:

"The Purpose of life, after all, is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experience." --Eleanor Roosevelt

Fun Fact:

I spent a night tending bar and pulling pints in one of the oldest pubs in Dublin, Ireland.

Why the Rebelle? Why now?

We had a blast last year - in spite of being painfully unprepared and ill. Some people advised us to wait until we were actually "ready." At this stage of life, I didn't want to take a chance on missing this opportunity - it may not come around again. Our goals were to stay friends, have fun and finish. Mission Accomplished! This year, I'm grateful I can have an opportunity to take another swing at this - we plan to take more showers, stay healthy and finish better!

Who, or what, inspires you most?

I'm inspired by people who have successfully reinvented themselves throughout their lives to remain relevant. For example, after a childhood spent in poverty, Louis Hay started her career as a model, however, decades later, in her 60s she founded Hayhouse publishing and ran it until her death 30 years later. What a pivot!

Top three favorite podcasts / books / shows

The Doctors Farmacy

Cheaper Than Therapy

The Drive

Greatest adventure to date?

I've walked the 500 mile long Camino de Santiago twice. I trekked alone in 2016 and then again in 2019 with my grandson. Both Camino journeys were life changing!

Prior Years Competed:

2022, 2023 

#156 The Honey Badgers

Rasa and LeeWhay met and became friends more than a decade ago and have been traveling and overlanding together (along with their significant others) ever since. Their rookie Rebelle Rally, in 2021, was the first time they had ever partnered in the same vehicle together. The rally deepened their friendship and their trust in one another, brought them loads of laughter and fun, and at the finish line, they keep saying, “Yes! Let’s do this again!” 2024 marks their fourth consecutive year of competition together at the Rebelle Rally.

PHXTaco is the Honey Badgers’ trusty steed: a 2004 First Gen Toyota Tacoma, clocking in at 330,000 miles on the odometer this year! This truck has been built for and exercised almost weekly on desert and mountain adventures, and is constant maintenance and refinement mode in its Phoenix, Arizona home garage.

The Honey Badgers are self-designating as a 5020 team this year. Rasa and LeeWhay turned 50, and PHXTaco turned 20!

Rasa has been driving and co-driving PHXTaco all over the desert southwest for 20 years, mostly while looking for historic airplane crash sites, but also exploring old mine sites, watering holes, cool rocks, and epic campsites. She knows where all 4 tires are planted, exactly what her truck can and can’t do, and how to push the envelope safely and with true mechanical sympathy. Rasa has been wrenching on and maintaining this truck alongside her husband since it was brand new, so she knows what’s going on under the hood. By day, she’s a leader at Honeywell Aerospace, but on the weekends, it’s adventure time!

LeeWhay is an experienced world traveler, physical therapist, and homesteader. She is an expert at reading maps and navigating best routes through unfamiliar territory. She is equally comfortable with map/plotter/compass as she is with GPS for route and checkpoint finding. LeeWhay is an excellent off-road driver herself, and an invaluable asset to Rasa when spotting and marshalling are needed in the toughest terrain. She’s bossy in the best possible way when things go sideways, as they sometimes do. Her recovery planning and execution skills are second to none, and always result in forward movement.

Rasa Fuller - Driver

I’m grounded and decisive, an excellent listener and distiller of information. You can count on me always using my skills for good, not evil. I have been managing aerospace programs and engineers since before I can remember, and I round out my days and weekends with truck rebuilding, adventuring, gardening, cooking, rescuing kitties, and reading good books.

Occupation:

Director at Honeywell Aerospace

Residence:

Phoenix, Arizona

Favorite Quote:

Everything is figure-out-able.

Fun Fact:

My first language was Lithuanian, though I’ve lost most of it and now only retain the ability to swear in Lithuanian.

Why the Rebelle? Why now?

Again, again!! I’m addicted to this challenge, and can’t get enough of shining brightly alongside the most badass and amazing women I know!

Who, or what, inspires you most?

Mentors, coaches, and team-builders. People who selflessly give their time to build people into the best versions of themselves. I am fortunate to have known a few, and I strive to be that for people around me, too.

Top three favorite podcasts / books / shows

Marketplace by American Public Media

All of Naomi Novik’s books

Hail Mary by Andy Weir

Greatest adventure to date?

It started as a Sunday drive. A fun little winter day trip to Arizona's Verde River the hard way. Just a few flurries expected. On that chilly late afternoon, on the steep side of a canyon, 25 difficult miles from pavement and people, at a not-very-bumpy spot, our Tacoma's spindle knuckle catastrophically broke (you know, the thing that holds the wheel on). We phoned a friend (thank goodness for cell signal there) and with a 3 hour ETA for rescue, had time and tools to disassemble and assess for the repair. We had all the right gear with us for what ended up being an icy and dark hike out to our rescuer (whose truck couldn't quite make it all the way in to us). And after finding the right parts, we returned 2 days later in #sparetaco to shovel new snow and field-repair the truck on the shelf road. If we hadn’t gone that day, we might not have gotten her out until spring. We raced to install the new spindle and then get out before the incoming storm dumped its 40 inches of snow on the Verde rim. We did 27-point turns on that shelf road and winched #sparetaco up over an icy boulder shelf in the dark as the snow started to fall. THAT was the adventure of a lifetime! It's also why our spindles and knuckles now have Total Chaos gussets welded in place! And why #sparetaco now has a rear elocker. Lessons firmly learned! Turns out it was a long-growing stress crack from our years of fun driving that just chose this fun location to finally give way.

Prior Years Competed:

2021, 2022, 2023

LeeWhay Pasek - Navigator

I am half a century old and continue to learn new things every day. Being outdoors in nature, especially around animals, is my happy place.

Occupation:

Physical therapist / homesteader

Residence:

Grafton, NH

Favorite Quote:

"Solvitur ambulando" is a Latin phrase which means, "it is solved by walking" and is used to refer to a problem which is solved by a practical experiment. It is often attributed to Saint Augustine.

Fun Fact:

A year later, I have 22 chickens, three of which are roosters. Chicken Math is real!

Why the Rebelle? Why now?

The Rebelle is a unique competition that combines challenge, teamwork, beautiful scenery, amazing people, and camaraderie. It's addictive and I'm hooked. Why now? We only live once!

Who, or what, inspires you most?

Older couples in their 80's and 90's who look at each other with fondness and love after so many years. People who grow, raise, and preserve their own food.

Top three favorite podcasts / books / shows

Being Mortal

Blink

The Notebook

Greatest adventure to date?

It's really hard to choose just one. Summiting Kilimanjaro in 2010 Hiking from the West coast of England to the East coast in 2015 Driving across the Simpson desert and the Canning Stock Route in our 80's series Land Cruiser and Adventure Trailer Chaser in 2015 Being stuck in Morocco in our van for 6 months at the beginning of the Pandemic in 2020

Prior Years Competed:

2021, 2022, 2023

#148 Coffee & Roam

We met several years ago through a women’s off-road camping group. We started planning overland trips outside of the group that included our husbands, and our friendship blossomed over morning coffee in the wilderness and sunset hiking wherever we found to camp that night. This is the basis of our team name, Coffee and Roam. Our saying is “Friendship is a cup off Coffee made for you”. We trade off who makes the coffee.

In our first year of friendship, the idea of teaming up and competing in the Rebelle surfaced, but it wasn’t the right time. Avis has since competed twice in the Rally and Lizzy once. And here we’ve circled back around and are excited to compete together.

Elizabeth Siegel - Driver

I'm an adventure-driven introvert who was raised in San Diego but now calls the mountains of Montana home. I am passionate about photography, tending my garden, baking sourdough, dirt biking, and an unwavering love for my rescue dogs.

Occupation:

Marketing Manager - specializing in Photography and Video for RRE Global

Residence:

Stevensville, Montana, USA

Favorite Quote:

“You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough.” - Mae West

Fun Fact:

I like to knit in the summertime.

Why the Rebelle? Why now?

So last year, my birthday was during the Rebelle Raleigh, and I had been watching the rally and cheering on friends who competed in it for multiple years and had wanted to compete myself, but it was always a Someday. Last year, I made the leap, and my motto was why not now? The experience was incredible and after I crossed the finish line, I felt like I had unfinished business, and I had to go back. I woke up almost every morning for months, dreaming about the rally or reliving checkpoints.


Who, or what, inspires you most?

Women who support other women, from small acts to sister circles. Those who lift one another up and encourage one another not only to dream but to do.

Top three favorite podcasts / books / shows

The Four Tendencies by Gretchen Rubin,

Rising Strong by Brene Brown,

Tracks: A Woman’s Solo Trek Across 1700 Miles of Australian Outback by Robyn Davidson

Greatest adventure to date?

In 2019, my husband and I sold all our significant belongings, rented out our house in Arizona, moved into our Truck camper, and lived on the road like a retired couple for a year. We stuck mainly to the Western US, where we could explore BLM and National Forest land and touch only dirt roads for days on end. We hiked, visited national parks, and had our coffee in some of the most beautiful places.


Prior Years Competed:

2023

Avis Cook - Navigator

I'm an outgoing, fun-loving, adventure-seeking, wife, mother, and friend.

Occupation:

Podcast Host

Residence:

Santa Clara, Utah, USA

Favorite Quote:

"Love her but leave her wild"

Fun Fact:

I'm so wildly curious that I started a podcast so that is was acceptable.

Why the Rebelle? Why now?

The Rebelle is an amazing opportunity to put into practice so many life skills. A challenge that is never the same challenge but the same game none the less. The Rebelle is something I didn't know I needed in my life gifting me with a sisterhood and a tribe of likeminded women.

Who, or what, inspires you most?

Pioneer Women. They were both keepers of the home and able to survive in conditions that were less than ideal....The original Rebelle

Top three favorite podcasts / books / shows

podcast: Stories From the Dirt

Greatest adventure to date?

The greatest and most rewarding adventure to date is my marriage to my husband Rob. We've been together since high school and I can't imagine an adventure without him.

Prior Years Competed:

2022, 2023

#144 CanToy Divas

Sue and I met 11 years ago when we both joined a local chapter of Sweet Adelines International (women’s barbershop singing organization) and we have been singing together and friends ever since. While rehearsing for a quartet competition in 2018, I told Sue about the Rebelle Rally, meeting Emily Miller at BCOR, and how I would love to compete. Sue mentioned that she had done some navigating with her husband on driving vacations and would be interested in partnering up.

We competed together in 2020, 2021 and 2023 Rebelle Rally and were awarded the International Cup each year.

This year is special as we will be running the rally in memory of Sue’s grandson, River Hyde Nejad, who passed in March 2024 at the tender age of 3 years old. Little River was born prematurely and during his short life went through many surgeries and suffered from neurological difficulties. Our charity of choice this year is the Okanagan Similkameen neurological Society in Rivers honour.

Liza Tough - Driver

I am a 50 years young adventurous grandmother of four who loves to off road and explore the amazing back country of beautiful British Columbia with my loving and supportive husband of 27 years, Doug, and our sweet Diva Dog, Sable. I love talking with and encouraging women who are just starting to explore the 4x4 off roading community and the Rebelle.

Occupation:

Bookkeeper/Photographer

Residence:

West Kelowna, BC Canada

Favorite Quote:

'There are no secrets to success. It is the result of preparation, hard work and learning from failure"Colin Powell

Fun Fact:

I love standing in the pitch black in the middle of nowhere taking photos of the night sky all by myself while campmates are sleeping.

Why the Rebelle? Why now?

The Rebelle Rally is the perfect blend of adventure and challenge, I do fear that I may be addicted. I love the twists and turns each new year brings

Who, or what, inspires you most?

Women who push through their fears and insecurities to take on new and possibly hard and/or scary things.

Top three favorite podcasts / books / shows

4×4 Canada Podcast

Anything Scifi

Greatest adventure to date?

Competing in the Rebelle for the past 4 years. It has made me a better friend, wife, mom and grandma. I love that I can inspire other women to go for their dreams.

Prior Years Competed:

2020, 2021, 2022,2023

Awards Achieved:

International Cup

Sue Chapin - Navigator

An adventurous soul, who is hoping retirement is right around the corner, so that a life of travel can begin. This wife, sister, aunt, mother & grandmother loves family time.

Occupation:

Payroll Officer

Residence:

Peachland, BC, Canada

Favorite Quote:

Just do it!

Fun Fact:

I have a nephew that is 6 years younger than me.

Why the Rebelle? Why now?

Why not. I'm not getting any younger & I'd like to do one last one before retirement.

Who, or what, inspires you most?

My husband inspires me as he always wants me to be the best person I can be.

Top three favorite podcasts / books / shows

Welcome to Wrexham, CFL Outsider, and anything Marvel.

Greatest adventure to date?

Tied, driving Ireland with my husband Jorj & the Rebelle.

Prior Years Competed:

2020, 2021 & 2023

Awards Achieved:

International Cup winner in 2020, 2021 & 2023

#140 Long Beach RaceHers

How it started? 

Jenn and Natalie started off as roller derby acquaintances which eventually blossomed into a friendship. They played on the same team for years locally and to some travel games. Jenn, or Squirrel, her derby alter ego, was a blocker. Natalie, Busturr Chassis, was the jammer. The blocker in roller derby will often make a path through the derby pack for the jammer. Funny enough, they fall into these roles as Navigator and Driver for the Rebelle Rally. Squirrel is still making the path while Busturr is pushing forward to score points.

During the throws of Covid and what its restrictions brought for roller derby, both were forced to put derby on the back burner for a bit. While Squirrel still actively plays today, Busturr just drops in for a practice here and there to say hi.

With the downtime from derby, Squirrel and Busturr both turned to their other passion; being outdoors camping and off-roading. When they each realized their other hobbies aligned too, they had a moment like in that movie “Step Brothers” where Will Farrell and John C. Riley looked at each other and said “Did we just become best friends?!?….Yep!!”

And so the outdoor adventures began. They’ve camped in the desert and mountains together. They’ve explored some off-road trails with our own co-pilots (their husbands). They have done an off-road “taco tour” through Baja, Mexico. They have gone on a desert-bar tour with some more friends in Arizona. And they’ve bombed across the Mohave Desert in their rigs set up for camping, trying to keep up with friends that have trucks a little more capable of the trip. And they have even boated together down the Colorado River.

All of this fun adventure-ing eventually led to Busturr asking Squirrel if she wanted to do the Rebelle Rally with her. Neither of them had any idea what they were getting into, except that it was a navigation based competition over 8 days from Mammoth to Glamis. It is SO much more.

So they went to a Rebelle U training in Ocotillo with other like minded women. Some who had previously competed in Rebelle Rally and some checking it out like like Squirrel and Busturr.

Busturr was immediately hooked. But Squirrel needed to consider what she would be taking on. And she also needed to figure out if she would be able to commit to the time and money it would take to compete. It’s not a decision to make lightly. The entry fee is hefty and they would need to spend money beyond that on supplies, training, gear, and to outfit Hank the 4Runner further. But if you’re reading this I bet you can guess the outcome. OF COURSE Squirrel said she wanted to do it!

To this day they pull their derby background into their Rebelle training. An example of this is the term “new jam”. In derby, a jam is one round of the game, similar to a down in football. A whistle is blown, the jam starts and chaos ensues. It’s actually a beautiful skilled dance of blockers and jammers, offense and defense. This is when points are scored as jammers break free of the pack of blockers, and souls are stolen as the blockers work together to keep the jammer stuck in the pack, unable to score for their team. The declaration of “new jam” is something we say to each other in derby as a reminder to let the previous jam go. To start fresh, and make this jam count. To not dwell on mistakes or even the glory of points. Because it is a new jam and you need to focus on whatever the game has to throw at you. In the truck, while training, Squirrel and Busturr will often call “new jam” to move through difficulty. They pull that part of derby into the cockpit of Hank the 4Runner regularly. It is a good reminder of the focus you need when considering your next course of action and how much time you have to accomplish that.

Another thing Squirrel and Busturr have in common is, unfortunately, auto immune illnesses. Auto Immune issues often are vague and hard to diagnose. Often times being auto-immune illnesses are mistaken for other issues and are mistreated.

Busturr has known something was wrong for years, but only recently was diagnosed with Psoriatic Arthritus. She is often in pain but puts on a brave face and pushes forward. She is currently trying her 4th medication seeking respite from this pain.

Squirrel was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 2013 when symptoms reared their ugly head causing temporary blindness and paralysis in the right side of her body (luckily that has since subsided, but comes and goes). Like Busturr, she also puts on a brave face and pushes forward. Sometimes our autoimmune illnesses tell us to slow down; sometimes we listen, sometimes we don’t, but we both know that we have to keep pushing forward and we can’t let it slow down our passion for life and pursuit of our hobbies.

Having both roller derby and auto-immune issues that align their past and present, if they do take a podium in the Rebelle Rally, per the rules, the prize money goes to a charity of their choosing. That being said, they would be thrilled to split their donations (if allowed) between Badfish Roller Derby, where their friendship sprouted and also where they learned the true meaning of the word team, AND also to an auto-immune charity that is TBD.

And so Squirrel and Busturr committed to training. They tuned in to watch Rebelle Rally online in 2023. Once the competition was over and the dust settled they very impatiently waited for the link to appear on the Rebelle Rally website. As soon as it did, they clicked, paid the fee, and continued training their butts off.

Natalie McPherson - Driver

I am a adventurous chick who likes to fly by the seat of my pants, usually in the desert, water or air. My family, friends and laughter is where my happiness lies.

Occupation:

Refinery OPerations in the Alkylation Unit and Environmental Treating Department

Residence:

Long Beach, CA

Favorite Quote:

"Skaters don't cry." - my Mom. When I was little and learning how to roller skate. She taught me to get up, brush the dirt off, and keep trying, because crying is not fun but roller skating is. It's a quote that spills over into a lot of different things.

Fun Fact:

I was a firefighter in my mid twenties for a hot minute...pun intended.

Why the Rebelle? Why now?

Why not? Why wouldn't you want to do the Rebelle if you could? Why now? Because now is when I learned about it and had the means to do it. If I had known before and had the means to compete, I would have been involved year one. And every year since.

Who, or what, inspires you most?

My Mom and her adventures inspire me. If only she had her own van vlog...My husband and his never ending ability to show love and push through anything thrown his way inspires me.My kids inspire me for just being in the world today. There is unfiltered, unlimited, immediate access to everything on the internet. It so much (and I am glad it wasn't a part of my childhood). And somehow they are both still well rounded, smart young men, who do not let the influencers influence them. I admire them for getting through years of missed childhood due to covid. And they both still seem happy, whole and motivated to do good things. I love you boys and am proud of both of you every day for finding your own path through this crazy existence.And lastly the sun! Sunrises and sunsets are my favorite. There is something so great about that first sun first beams over the horizon, especially on a crisp, quiet morning away from the city, in ANY terrain. And equally great when the sun casts an orange glow on the world around me as it goes from a blazing bright ball of fire. It seems bigger somehow as it dips behind the Earth. And that last tiny shard of bright light is snuffed out. But the colors get richer, slowly fading into night and twinkling stars.

Top three favorite podcasts / books / shows

The Emerald Mile, You are a Badass, and Avatar, the Last Airbender (the cartoon series, NOT the movie)

Greatest adventure to date?

I really have been blessed with some great adventures alongside some spectacular people. Oahu with my family, Maui and Mexico with my husband, Whitewater rafting down the Colorado River solo (in a group) for two weeks, Havasupai with my bestie, Girls roadtrip all over the south west, including Horsehoe Bend kayaking and camping, countless trips to the Colorado River and desert, Costa Rica with the girls, Belize scuba trip and the Great Blue Hole with my cousin, Scuba diving all over, power hang gliding over Hawaii, all the hiking, off-roading and traveling i could squeeze in. Just go if you can.

Jennifer Lee - Navigator

A WHEELY fun gal who loves adventuring on 4 & 8 wheels, manager of payroll, off-roading, and roller derby queen. Friends and family mean the world to me.

Occupation:

Payroll Manager

Residence:

Long Beach,CA

Favorite Quote:

"If a friend asks for help, you help them." - Letterkenny

Fun Fact:

I've been playing roller derby for 10+ years spanning over 3 teams.

Why the Rebelle? Why now?

Why not? You only live once right?

Who, or what, inspires you most?

My parents inspire me by installing the love for adventure and continious drive to learn.

Top three favorite podcasts / books / shows

1. Show- Letterkenny

2. Show- Futurama

3. My Bigfoot Sighting (it’s a silly podcast, but I love it!)

Greatest adventure to date?

When my husband and I took a road trip in our Jeep LJ starting from the Colorado River out of Blythe all the way up Arizona out to the northern rim of the Grand Canyon.

#154 Trail Trust/FOX Factory

Trail Trust/FOX Factory asked myself, being an offroad racecar driver to be their driver, and Ashleigh, one of FOX Factory shocks test engineers to be the navigator. We met for the first time in April 2024 at the Rebelle U training in Ocotillo Wells where we jumped right in and went to work learning how to navigate with nothing more than a paper map, compass, plotting tools, and a calculator! It felt as if we were thrown into the wolves a bit, but it forced us to get to know each other quickly and figure out how to be the best teammates we could be for one another. We decided to take another Rebelle U course in August and that created a great bond between us after we worked day/night over 4 days to take our skills to the next level. We walked away with the confidence we needed to pull up to the starting line of the Rebelle Rally as Team Trail Trust/FOX to give it our all and cross all 8 daily finish lines and become Rebelles for life!!

Kristen Matlock - Driver

I'm a mom of two boys (12 & 14), a wife, a homeschool teacher, business owner, and a professional offroad racer. My passion is racing and rally is quickly becoming a part of that passion too!

Occupation:

Professional Offroad Racer

Residence:

Alpine, CA, USA

Favorite Quote:

"The fire within drives the wheels beneath." ~unknown author

Fun Fact:

I have 25 pairs on Vans shoes and I can touch my tongue to my nose! Hahaha!! On a more serious note - I have been racing for 19 years now! My career began on ATVs where I earned 5 championships before transitioning to UTVs when Polaris RZR signed my husband, Wayne Matlock, and I to compete on their factory team 9 years ago. I have multiple class wins/podium finishes at the Baja 1000, Baja 500, San Felipe 250, Vegas to Reno, NORRA 1000, Mint 400, UTV World Championship, Sonora Rally, & more. Fun fact - my husband and I have been married for 20 years now and we compete against one another at all of the races and still love each other no matter who crosses the finish line first!!

Why the Rebelle? Why now?

I have wanted to compete in the Rebelle Rally for some time now! Mostly to take what I already do with offroad racing and add a twist to it with the challenges of learning to slow my speed down and navigate the course without any electronic devices. I was asked by my sponsor, FOX, to represent them and Trail Trust by driving in the rally this year and I'm beyond stoked to do so!!

Who, or what, inspires you most?

Knowing that I inspire others to get out there and live out their dreams fuels my drive beyond measure to push myself to the limits and never give up. I love being a mentor to the youth and showing them what is possible!

Top three favorite podcasts / books / shows

Greatest adventure to date?

In 2021, I was the first American female to represent Polaris RZR in the Dakar Rally. From many months of intense training prior to the rally, an emergency landing in Iceland along the way to Saudi Arabia, & 5K miles of racing over 12 days - the Dakar Rally has been my greatest adventure to date. Although, I have a feeling that the Rebelle Rally may supersede it! Check back with me in a few weeks!

Ashleigh Ballas – Navigator

Occupation:

FOX Factory Test Engineer

Residence:

Scotts Valley, CA, USA 

TOTAL CHAOS FABRICATION INC.

159 North maple street – unit #J

Corona, CA 92880

Phone: +1 951.737.9682

Web: www.chaosfab.com http

Mail: info@chaosfab.com

Facebook: TotalChaosFabrication

Instagram: totalchaosfabrication