The Baja 1000 is known for its grueling 1,000-mile race through the desert, testing the limits of both man and machine. But this year, one dirt bike rider stole the show by completing the race while live-streaming to his mother using a Starlink Mini setup. Ben Hundter and his brother David crossed the finish line after 31 hours and 30 minutes of non-stop racing, making for one epic FaceTime call.
The video of Hundter finishing the race went viral, showcasing his innovative Starlink Mini setup. The Sherco 279X Sportsman Moto class bike was equipped with a massive Jackery battery at the rear, powering the Starlink Mini device duct-taped to Hundter’s head. An iPhone was also taped to his chest, allowing him to live-stream the entire race to his mother.
In a post-race interview, Hundter revealed that his mother was initially hesitant to let him race in the Baja 1000 due to his Type 1 diabetes. Her condition for his participation was that he had to live-stream the entire race to her. The lightweight and high-speed internet capabilities of the Starlink Mini made it the perfect solution for the dirt bike racer.
“I wanted to race the Baja so bad, but my mom wouldn’t let me because I have type 1 diabetes. She said the only way I could race it is if I was live-streaming to her the whole time, so I have her on my chest right now,” Hundter shared. He even joked that he and Elon Musk came up with the duct-taped Starlink Mini solution.
Elon Musk himself saw the video of Hundter completing the Baja 1000 while live-streaming and commented, “Cool.” The CEO seemed impressed by the innovative use of technology during the race.
Despite their impressive performance, the Hundter brothers ran afoul of a road closure during the race, resulting in a 17-hour penalty and disqualification for running an “illegal line” through the peninsula. Regardless, completing the Baja 1000 is no small feat, and Ben and David Hundter are returning home as winners in their own right.
The story of Ben Hundter and his ad hoc Starlink Mini setup has captured the attention of many, showcasing the power of technology in extreme racing conditions. The combination of determination, innovation, and a supportive mother made for a memorable and inspiring race at the Baja 1000.