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Managaha hosts 4th Flipper Race on June 23
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Posted on Jun 05 2012
The award-winning, blue waters of Managaha Island in the CNMI welcome swimmers with flippers to the 4th Annual Saipan International Open Water Flipper Race Tournament on June 23.
Voted best dive and snorkeling spot in the Pacific for numerous years at the annual Japan Dive Fair, Managaha is the most popular site for visitors to Saipan. The race features a 1.5-kilometer swim around the island. Over 40 participants from Japan have already confirmed to make the three-hour flight to Saipan for the annual signature event of the Marianas Visitors Authority.
This unique race requires swimmers to use wetsuits and fins. Snorkels and life jackets are also allowed. Competition age divisions are: 19-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, and 60-and-up. Those age 18 and under will be entered into the Junior Division.
Ferries will depart Smiling Cove Marina to Managaha promptly at 5:30am the morning of the race. The race will begin at 6:30am, followed by an island-style breakfast and awards ceremony on the white sand beaches of Managaha.
The event is also sponsored by the Community Sports Center Foundation of Japan.
“We’re looking forward to a stronger turnout this year, as we feel this event has a lot of growth potential, given the popularity and strong reputation of Managaha,” said MVA Community Projects manager Martin Duenas.
The cost is $5 for Northern Mariana Island residents with valid ID. The deadline to register with the MVA is June 22, 2012, from 4:30pm to 6:30pm during the orientation at the American Memorial Park amphitheater on Saipan. Participants must be in good health with snorkeling or diving experience.
For more information or to register, contact the MVA at 664-3210, or visit the Events Calendar at www.mymarianas.com.
The 4th Annual Saipan International Open Water Flipper Race Tournament will be held at Managaha in the Northern Mariana Islands on June 23, 2012. (MVA)
