CNMI edges Guam in 2023 Turkey Cross

CNMI riders managed to successfully defend their championship in 2022 by edging Guam anew in the 2023 Turkey Cross last Nov. 25 and 25 at the Cowtown Race Park.

The home team won eight out of 15 divisions for bragging rights for another year.

Local riders won the Peewee ATV Class (Nakoa Torres), Mini ATV Class (Anelia Igotol), Power Puff Class (Billie Inabo Pangelinan), Big Boys ATV Class (Christian “Hollywood” Camacho), Veterans ATV Class (Greg Clark), Veterans Class (Justis “Cuki” Alvarez), Intermediate Class (Aric Cruz), and Open Expert Class (Shane “Pikaboo” Alvarez).

Guam’s seven first place finishes were in the Peewee I Class (Kyan Mayo), Peewe II Class (Royce Butler), Mini I Class (Julian Lane), Mini II Class (Jonathan Aguon), Women’s Class (Marianna Wenden), Novice Class (Kanen Arceo), and Legends Class (Franklin Rios).

Marianas Racing Association president Charles Cepeda congratulated riders from both U.S. territories for keeping the islands’ motocross tradition alive.

“The MRA Turkey Cross 2023 just wrapped up after two days of intense racing. But before that, Guam racers arrived on Wednesday, the day before Thanksgiving, to get some practice in at the Cowtown track. It had been months since they last rode on a track, so they made the most of their time at Cowtown.”

The fact that Guam riders opted to spend Thanksgiving away from home showed their utmost commitment to the sport.

“We want to extend our gratitude to the 39 riders from Guam and the over 45 riders from Saipan who participated in this thrilling two-day event. Countless memories were made both on and off the track, as we fostered a sense of competition during the races and a feeling of family off the track. Cowtown provided an excellent venue for everyone, ensuring a great experience for all. The people of Saipan warmly welcomed the racers and their families from Guam, treating them to delicious meals, shopping trips, and sightseeing adventures. The island’s hospitality truly left a lasting impression on everyone,” he said.

Cepeda also took the opportunity to thank everyone who made the 2023 Turkey Cross possible, namely the Office of the Governor, Office of the Lt. Governor, the CNMI Legislature, the Department of Corrections, the Department of Public Works, Monster Energy, D&Q Distributors, Old Spice, Marpac, Joeten Motors, JEM Enterprises, IT&E, Godfathers Bar, Saipan Ice and Water, Galaxy Snack Bar, “and all those who contributed in any way. Organizing an event like the Turkey Cross motocross races requires a dedicated team, and we are grateful for everyone’s support,” he said.

The MRA official also gave a special shoutout to the National Honor Society from Saipan Southern High School for stepping up at the last minute to serve as flaggers and manage the traffic at Cowtown Race Park.

“Personally, I am thrilled to be part of a community that shares a passion for motocross on our islands. We may be fiercely competitive on the track, but it’s the love and camaraderie within our motocross family that makes this sport truly special. It’s heartwarming to see the National Honor Society students from Saipan Southern High School selflessly volunteering their time to ensure the smooth flow of traffic at Cowtown. Their dedication and willingness to step up at the last minute is a testament to the strong sense of community we have in our motocross family. Together, we create an environment where not only the thrill of competition thrives, but also the bonds of friendship and support,” he said.