Camacho, Yumul raise CNMI flag

Christian “Hollywood” Camacho, right, goes up against Guam’s James Lujan in Big Boys ATV Class of the Turkey Cross Race held last Nov. 26 and 27 at the Cowtown Race Track. (CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)

Christian “Hollywood” Camacho and Ethan Yumul made their home islands proud when they beat Guam riders to win their respective divisions in the Turkey Cross Race held last Nov. 26 and 27 at the Cowtown Race Track.

Camacho continued his perfect streak in the Big Boy ATV Class, winning both races for 50 points. Guam’s James Lujan and Pier Banes came second and third with 42 points and 36 points, respectively.

“The win was a big blessing. When I heard how many ATV riders were coming in from Guam, I was stoked! I started to get to work. My main focus was improving my stamina. During practices, I pushed myself harder each time and it paid off. Guam brought their game and we were able to put on a nice show for the spectators,” he said.

Ethan Yumul in action in the Novice Class of the Turkey Cross Race held last Nov. 26 and 27 at the Cowtown Race Track.(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)

The 38-year-old IT&E employee admitted it wasn’t all smooth sailing though, especially in the first heat. 

“During the first heat, I was second out of the gate. When I took the lead, I made a mistake and went off course causing me to drop back to fourth as three Guam riders passed. Luckily I was able to save a potential crash going over the side of the table top and over the tires trying to get back on the track. I kept my composure and raced my race. I got the lead back and continued with a fast pace finishing first.”

Camacho also overcame a slow start in the second heat where he was third out of the gate.

“I knew it was going to be a lot harder as both guys ahead of me were from Guam. Every pass I tried to make they blocked me. I did my best staying close reading their lines, waiting for the right moment to make a move. When I saw the opportunity at the wall jump, I made my move, but that move almost cost me the race. My front tire ended up landing on the rear tire from one of the riders, which caused my bike to kick right. I went straight off the side of the wall jump almost crashing straight into the jungle. Luckily I was able to save it again and get back on the track, but not after another Guam rider passed.” 

Camacho said the mistake the riders from Guam made was leaving gaps between each of their riders. 

“I was able to make my moves, passing one at a time and taking the lead right after the finish line table top. Once I was in the lead, I checked out and continued a fast pace securing another first place finish,” he said.

The two-time Marianas Racing Association Monster Energy Point Series Big Boy ATV winner thanked the MRA board and the Guam Motorcycle and ATV Club for making the Turkey Cross a success. 

“None of this would be possible without their hard work and planning. To my parents, my family, and my Naughty Natives Team, thank you for your continued support. To the Guam riders, thank you for coming out, battling, and having a great time. Lastly, to the race fans. Despite the dust and heat, you guys still cheered on and cheered loud. This race is dedicated to you all!”

Yumul, meanwhile, lorded it over in the Novice Class after winning both heats for 50 points. Guam’s Kanen Arceo was second with 42 points and Aric Cruz third with 37 points. 

“I was ecstatic about winning first place during the Turkey Cross and having some Guam riders compete against me gave me a grasp of how they ride and the level I’m at compared to the riders at Guam,” said the 16-year-old Marianas High School student. 

Yumul thanked Marpac, Hybrid Shop, Marianas Native, True Value Hardware, Team Ericco, and Chubby Chovie Racing for being his sponsors and his family for supporting him on his motocross journey.

The son of former senator Ray Yumul said he got into motocross to keep himself active during the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

“I got into motocross because it seemed really interesting and felt like a great sport to keep my fitness going especially during quarantine back in 2020,” he said.