MRA 2024 Turkey Cross this weekend

After feasting on turkey, ham, and the works for Thanksgiving, feast your senses at the annual Marianas Racing Association Turkey Cross Motocross Race 2024 this weekend at the Cowtown Raceway Park.

CNMI racers are revving up to defend their title against over 30 Guam racers this Saturday and Sunday in Marpi.

The heart-pounding, dust-churning, and high-flying action is set to start at 10am on both days and will feature 16 categories: Pewee ATV, Pewee I, Pewee II, Mini I, Mini ATV, Big Boys ATV Novice, Power Puff Girls, Women’s, Big Boys ATV, Mini II, Veteran’s ATV, Veteran’s, Novice, Intermediate, Open Expert, and Legends.

MRA president Ellery Cruz said that this year, the event is set to be bigger and better.

“With two intense heats on Saturday and one final heat on Sunday, you won’t want to miss a single minute of the high-speed action! Saturday’s races will wrap up around 5pm, while Sunday’s thrilling finale concludes around 2pm.” He then said there’s a banquet and awards ceremony after to celebrate the weekend’s champions and the spirit of motocross.

With that, he said, “Bring the whole family out and get ready to cheer your heart out! Pack your tents, tables, chairs, BBQ pits, coolers, and loads of excitement for a full weekend of exhilarating races, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of the racetrack and the ocean in Marpi. Best part? Entry is free, but be sure to arrive early to secure your prime spot for an unforgettable view. “

He added, “Saipan is ready to defend its title as the Expert champion for the past two years, so let’s make sure everyone enjoys the race in safety. Please respect the track and barriers to keep the event fun and secure for all. As a reminder, all public spectators are not allowed on the track without any approval from race track officials, and must refrain from standing on any of the barriers.”

He then gave a huge thank you to their incredible sponsors for making the event possible: Gov. Arnold Palacios, Lt. Gov. David M. Apatang, Sapan and Northern Islands Legislative Delegation chair Rep. J.P. Sablan (Ind-Saipan), Saipan Mayor Ramon “RB” Camacho, members of the House of Representatives, Marianas Visitors Authority, Department of Finance, Joeten Motors Co., Herman’s Modern Bakery, MarPac, YCO True Value, Monster Energy, and their tireless track maintenance crew from the Department of Public Works led by Mike Borja and the amazing team at the Mayor’s Office. “Your dedication makes this event a reality, and we couldn’t do it without you,” he said.

Meanwhile, former MRA president Charles Cepeda welcomed the 33 Guam riders competing this weekend.

“We are thrilled to have such competitive races at our very own Cowtown Raceway Park. The excitement of motocross is truly alive in the Mariana Islands, and the fact that racers from Guam have made the effort to come to Saipan to ride on our track is a testament to the strong adrenaline rush that fuels each and every racer participating in this weekend’s races.”

He said a tough weekend awaits the Guam motocross enthusiasts and the 23 home-grown riders in the 2024 edition of the Turkey Cross.

“Racing three heats in just two days is no small feat, requiring immense commitment and preparation. We are grateful to the officers who worked tirelessly to make this event possible, as well as the MRA board, including president Ellery Cruz, vice president Paul Guerrero, Amanda Cruz, and all the board members. Special thanks to Jeff Rios, Bob Bucek, Tim Wenden, and the Guam officers for their hard work in bringing 33 racers and their families to Saipan. A big shoutout to this weekend’s track masters, Mr. David Burger and Mr. Dennis Quinones, for ensuring the safety of everyone on and off the track.”

Cepeda then invited the community to partake of the inter-island motocross extravaganza up north this Saturday and Sunday.

“Join us at Cowtown this Thanksgiving weekend for high-speed dirt track races on Saturday and Sunday. Bring your family, chairs, tents, coolers, barbecue, and everything you need to enjoy the thrilling scenery at Cowtown Raceway Park. See you there!”