For those of us who grew up around drag racing, we know it’s more than just a sport. It’s a teacher, a motivator, and for many, a guiding force in life. Personally, I can say that I wouldn’t be where I am today without my time in junior dragsters. It taught me discipline, focus, and the value of hard work—lessons that have stayed with me throughout my life.
But this isn’t just my story. It’s the story of how racing continues to shape young lives in ways far beyond the track. Yesterday, I had the privilege of speaking with two incredible racers from St. Croix—Jamal Browne and Lenroy Cambran. What I expected to be a conversation about island racing turned into something much deeper: a testament to how racing and the power of giving back can change generations.
The Rickenbachs’ Gift to St. Croix
In the late 1990s, Robert “Rick” and Leslie Rickenbach, retired from the U.S., moved to St. Croix with a mission. They didn’t just bring their love for drag racing—they brought eight junior dragsters and a desire to make a difference. They introduced local kids to the sport, mentoring and teaching them not only how to race but how to succeed in life. Among those kids were Jamal and Lenroy, who credit the Rickenbachs with changing the course of their futures.
Inspired by the impact of the Rickenbachs, Lenroy Cambran has taken it upon himself to continue their legacy through his own program—the LeNyra Racing Academy
A Revival of Junior Dragsters in the Virgin Islands
In 2023, after years of dormancy, the Virgin Islands Junior Dragster Youth Program roared back to life. At the Caribbean Motorsports Complex, more than 70 children gathered to witness the revival of a program designed to introduce them to the sport. Thanks to the dedication of the Cambran Racing Team, Caribbean Drag Racing Association, Jamal Browne, and Arthur Hector. The first two junior dragsters were unveiled to an enthusiastic crowd.
Lenroy Cambran, a drag racer and native of St. Croix, led the effort. “When I was growing up, I always wanted to be involved with drag racing,” he said. “I played different sports, but there was something unique about this. It gave me a passion that has carried through my life.” My kids Lenroy Cambran Jr, LeNyra And LeNya Cambran also race their own juniors. We have traveled to multiple tracks and did very well. Great feeling to have my 3 kids share the same passion.
With six junior dragsters, the program initially planned to cap enrollment at 32 children. But when over 70 kids signed up, it was clear that the demand far exceeded the available resources. The waiting list continues to grow, and Lenroyis determined to expand the program—not just in St. Croix but to neighboring islands that have tracks but no junior dragsters. Each new dragster ads 2-3 kids on the list. Special thanks to Bates trucking, Flemming transport, Plaza extra/Caribbean h20 and department of sports park and recreation for there donations of cars we currently have.
Racing with Purpose
The LeNyra Racing Academy is about much more than racing. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, its mission is to develop well-rounded individuals by instilling life skills, discipline, and confidence through motorsports. Lenroy and his Wife Jahnyra Cambran understands the financial burden of running a program like this. The cost to ship a junior dragster to another island can be as much as $3,000.
In 2023 and 2024 The team attended one of the biggest races at Orlando Speed world in October and December and everyone did very well amongst other racers that own their own cars. For kids that don’t practice every weekend they did extremely well. They are the first kids in the Virgin Islands to ever receive their NHRA jr dragster license which was a major goal of the Academy. Leading the way was Tansen Baptiste, who not only won a battle with leukemia, but made it to the quarter finals among 160 junior dragsters. Thank you to our drivers and parents for trusting us. Drivers: Kayla Whitey, Tansen Baptiste, Shamoii Fontanelle, Massiah Saldana, Rosai Thomas, Jahnuel Trinidad, Marquis Patrick, Antonio Cintron, Kevin Trinidad, Amyah Petersen, and K’Marley Woodley.
How You Can Help
The demand for this program is undeniable, but the resources are limited. With only six junior dragsters and a waiting list of over 32 kids on St. Croix alone, there is an urgent need for more equipment, safety gear, and funding to expand to other islands.
This is where the racing community can make a difference. We all know how much racing has impacted our own lives. It’s time to pay it forward. The LeNyra Racing Academy is actively seeking sponsors and donors to help keep the program growing. Whether you’re an individual who wants to contribute or a business looking to make an impact, every dollar helps bring racing—and the valuable life lessons it teaches—to more kids who need it.
If you’re interested in supporting the program, please reach out to Lenroy Cambran directly. Your donation won’t just fund a racing program—it will invest in the future of these young racers and their communities.
Let’s come together and ensure that the next generation has the same opportunities we had. Let’s keep the spirit of junior dragsters alive and thriving in the Virgin Islands and beyond.
