Spider Web and Fly Trap in KONQER Saipan

KONQER chief experience officer Kaz Endo explains how the Fly Trap obstacle works during last Friday’s press conference for KONQER Saipan at the Chambre Bar of the Fiesta Resort & Spa Saipan. (Jon Perez)

Rain or shine, KONQER Saipan is expected to be another challenging event with organizers introducing new obstacles for the first stop in the three-leg circuit.

This year’s KONQER Saipan set for April 28 will transfer to Civic Center and Kilili Beach Park after holding the inaugural event at the Gov. Eloy S. Inos Peace Park last September. The obstacle course for next weekend’s race is mostly flat, but race organizers said participants could still expect a challenging and fun time.

“Rain or shine, the race will push through. Just like last year when the rain made the course wet and muddy, which became an extra challenge to all competitors,” said Kaz Endo, who is one of the brains behind the obstacle course race.

“Expect bumps and bruises but we have a medical team on standby to administer first aid. Participants must also sign a waiver once they register. But of course, you should also exercise caution by protecting yourself. We also have general liability insurance,” he added.

The Spider Web, Tarzan Falls, Fly Trap are some of the new obstacles, joining the usual Incline Bars and the dreaded Monster—a 20-plus feet wall that became a favorite in last year’s KONQER Saipan.

Organizers are asking the community for volunteers that would help them set up the obstacles and assist them on race day. They would start building the obstacles a few days before the April 28 event. They would make sure that the obstacles they would construct will be safe for all the participants. They would also check the obstacles during the one-hour technical time out on race day.

Meanwhile, KONQER president Kelli Wedd said there’s no word yet if last year’s three-leg winner and United States Marine Corps Maj. Timothy Patrick and runner-up USMC Gunnery Sgt. Justin Park would compete here.

Patrick ruled the Saipan King of the Hill, completing the 2.16-kilometer course that has a 32-meter incline in 37:08, while Park was more than a minute behind at 38:36. Local bet Joel Phair was third at 38:53.

“It will be an open race this year since we’re not sure if Maj. Tim Patrick would return to defend his title. This would give a local the chance to win this circuit,” said Wedd.

After the Saipan leg, KONQER will also have stops in Guam on June 16 at the Leo Palace and in Palau on Oct. 5 and 6.