Cruz honored to be president of MRA

Ellery Cruz said it’s an honor to be elected the president of the Marianas Racing Association.

“I do not take this position lightly and understand that it bears substantial weight. I am confident that with the members of the board elected with me, and most importantly our riders/members, MRA will continue to push forward and flourish,” he said.

The 2021 points race Expert Class champion also took time to thank past president Charles Cepeda and past vice president Cuki Alvarez for their unwavering dedication to the sport of motocross and for their exceptional leadership.

“Charles has been a pillar of guidance and support to motocross for a very long time, since it was alive and well years ago and he loves this sport as much as I do. So, I know I have big shoes to fill and it is definitely a bit nerve-wracking coming into this position. However, it is comforting knowing we still have them by our side to lead this group,” said Cruz.

He also enjoined the motocross community to help him grow the sport further and perhaps bring it to new heights under MRA’s new leadership.

“I’d like to thank all those who have continued to support motocross, be it by showing up on Sundays to cheer us on or watching us on social media platforms, and most especially those who have given us any kind of support to continue this sport. I implore our leaders and community members to come out and see what MRA is about. Motocross is more than getting on a bike to race. It’s about fellowship and community, about focus and discipline; it’s about taking your energy and channeling it into something healthy. We want our kids in the community to have positive reinforcing outlets and motocross is one of them. In today’s world, our kids are turning to negative vices more so than ever. With proper guidance and support, we can steer our youth into healthier directions and that is what we have been aiming to do with motocross.”

Joining Cruz in the new leadership team of MRA are vice president Paul Guerrero, secretary Amanda Cruz, and treasurer David Burger.

Cepeda, for his part, congratulated and wished Cruz and the new MRA leadership the best of luck at the helm of the club.

“These past two years have been incredibly exciting and filled with honor as your president. However, I have come to realize that the MRA is in need of a different direction, as evidenced by the election of new board members. Rest assured, I will continue to serve on the board and offer my assistance to the new leadership whenever they require it. I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has been incredibly supportive throughout my tenure as president. I am eagerly looking forward to an amazing year in 2024 for the MRA and the motocross community in the CNMI,” he said.

‘MOTO IV’ kicks off Sunday

MRA will have Round 1 of its 2024 Points Race Series dubbed “MOTO IV” this Sunday, Feb. 18, at the Cowotwon Race Park.

Cruz said motocross enthusiasts from the young age of 4 up to the “younger age” of 65 will be geared up with their two and four wheels to put on a great show.

“We hope the community joins us in some dirt-packed action fun and excitement this year! Our kids—and big kids—continue working on their skills and techniques to put on a great show. Motocross is a family event, so bring your family, your pop-up tents, cooler with drinks, barbecue pit, and food, and join us for a great day. Don’t be shy to come and say hello as well. We welcome everyone to Cowtown in the north!” said Cruz.

MRA would like to send its special thanks to the Saipan and Northern Islands Legislative Delegation, Monster Energy Drink, Department of Public Works, Saipan Mayor’s Office, Department of Fire and Emergency Medical Services, and Department of Corrections-Community Service for making their monthly races possible.