Camacho ‘fights’ off the MMA cage

Frank “The Crank” Camacho, seen here posing for a photo before running at the track, will take on a challenge off the MMA cage on Sept. 30.(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)

Frank “The Crank” Camacho is taking on a different challenge, moving away from his comfort zone to support a good cause.

Camacho has committed to trek around Saipan, covering more than a full marathon distance to raise funds for the Commonwealth Cancer Association and awareness on health, wellness, and fitness. He and his friends, Josh Castro and Jose Quan, will start the trek on Sept. 30 at 3pm with the route beginning and ending at Pacific Islands Club Saipan and covering American Memorial Park, Banzai Cliff, Joeten Kagman, Marine Beach, Forbidden Island Lookout, Laolao Beach, Naftan Point, and Coral Ocean Point. As an added challenge, no member of the trek team will be allowed to bring food, water, money, and these necessities should come from members of the community that they will meet along the course. Breaks and sleep are allowed, but only outdoors and they are looking at completing the course in 18 hours.

“I’ve been through a lot of MMA fights and enjoyed every challenge I came across the cage. However, running or walking is something I find more challenging than MMA fighting. The funny thing is when I started to get serious with MMA, I knew I had to get in shape and though I hate running, I had to do it as it’s part of the preparation. Running, walking, or trekking, especially long distance, is something that would test you more mentally and physically, so while I am scared of it, I always look forward to the challenge,” said Camacho.

“I’ve never run a marathon in my whole life and we’re doing about 47 to 52 miles. I’ve just finished a 5K and I am gassed out. But there’s no turning back, we have to do it to accomplish the mission and help people in need,” he added.

The Ultimate Fighting Championship veteran is calling on the support of the community for his new endeavor, which is made possible with his partnership with the CCA, Fit To Lead Initiative, and the Office of the Governor.

“I challenge the community, especially runners and walkers, to join us in this trek and raise awareness on how we can prevent diseases and death by getting involved in health and wellness activities. ‘The Crank’ is excited that his good reporter friend, Roselyn Monroyo, will be joining him on the run and trek for 50 miles, LOL,” Camacho said. 

For groups that would want to support the cause, Camacho said they could donate funds online through FrankTheCrank.com/pages/CCA and 100% of the proceeds from the Sept. 30 event will be turned over to CCA to assist the association’s program, including providing assistance to cancer victims.

To sponsor or for more information, send email to fbcamacho@gmail.com or call 671-747-7585.