Mes CHamoru slingstone event draws residents and visitors

The ancient CHamoru art of slingstone brings locals, visitors, and even the island’s youth, together.

The Yiyupaktu with Acho Marianas was held at Sagan Kotturan CHamoru’s Pulan Festival in Tumon during Mes CHamoru. 

The Yiyupaktu, also known as slingstone was originally used by CHamoru ancestors for hunting and battling, according to Acho Marianas Vice President Lino Rosario.

Since bringing back the art of slingstone through competitions held every Mes CHamoru, Rosario says the response has been incredible. 

"Other groups are building in the Marianas Islands. We also have a Marianas group in Tinian and in Rota so it has been pretty good and I’m glad we want to expand more," he said. "There are some kids who have never seen it so when Mes Chamoru happens they see us, they want to try it so now you want the kids to be interested. So you know what the kids are interested in it makes you more happy."

The interest of sling has also captured the interest of visitors which Rosario says that it gives them the opportunity to educate about Guam. Rosario hopes that interest of slinging continues on for future generations, to keep the CHamoru culture alive.