RECRUITING STATION SAN DIEGO -- Mud, speed, heart-pumping action, high-flying stunts and competitiveness attract many 17 to 28 year old men and women to a phenomenon known as the American Motorcycle Association Supercross series motorcycle racing.
The Marines from Recruiting Station San Diego have been integrated into the sport by highlighting patriotism for the fans. For several years, Marines have been jumping in on the excitement and have had success in finding motivated and athletic young adults who have a serious interest in a career in the military.
From the starting line at the U.S. Open at the MGM Grand hotel and casino, Las Vegas, to the finish line at Sam Boyd Stadium, Las Vegas, Marines were there with their pull-up bar, color guard and District Humvee.
Three of the sixteen-race series fell into RS Sand Diego's area of responsibility, and the Marines were happy about that.
"I'm a huge believer in involvement with Supercross," said SSgt. Ryan Green, RSS Temecula canvassing recruiter. "It's like the X-Games, it attracts a young audience who have a fire inside for some excitement."
Jason Dumonte, a 17-year-old high school junior from Rancho Buena Vista, Calif., said he was going to join the Marine Corps once he becomes a senior in high school. He said this after taking the Marine Corps Chin-up Challenge and speaking with a recruiter during the San Diego event, held at Qualcomm Stadium.
"There is a lot of potential for us as a recruiting force to continually maximize the exposure in Supercross," said SSgt. Mark Wynn, District enhanced area canvassing team member.
There were also many people who would approach the recruiting booth with a patriotic heart offering their appreciation for the Marines serving their country.
"I brought my 16 year-old son and his two friends," said Jill Casillas, 39 year-old from Henderson, Nev. "It's good to see that they have a place here where they can see people with honor and commitment."
Each event was run a bit differently, however, it was successful nonetheless. Typically the Marines would set up the Chin-up Challenge in the "pit area." This is where all of the riders' bikes and companies hang out before the race. This is almost as popular as the race itself.
The pits typically close about an hour before the big races start. This is when the Marines and poolees get ready to put on their show. Color Guards and giant flag displays bring the fans to their feet with cheers. The flawless presentation of the colors and playing of the national anthem is followed by a huge firework show and standing ovation to start the race.