Pull raises $8K for Tingting assistance

The joint effort between the business sector and the community in assisting the American Red Cross-NMI Chapter was showcased Saturday night as hundreds of people flocked to the Francisco C. Ada-Saipan International Airport, braving Mother Nature’s wet weather in support of this year’s Plane Pull competition.

According to Red Cross-NMI Chapter executive director John I. Hirsh, the event generated about $8,000 for the local emergency assistance organization, which in turn will be used to support relief efforts for victims of Typhoon Tingting, which struck the Commonwealth in late June.

“We decided to earmark funds for the Tingting relief efforts, so all the money that were raised [Saturday night] will be spent here locally in the community,” he said.

A total of 12 teams consisting of 20 members took part in the event, which featured the challenge of hauling a 145,000-lbs. Boeing 737, made available by Continental Airlines, for a distance of 12 feet. The pull took place at the airport’s Aircraft Parking Spot No. 1.

“Despite all the weather problems, the turnout was great,” Hirsh said. “I think people had fun. Everyone seemed to have enjoyed themselves and I think the event was a success with all the money that was raised. I am pretty sure it was a good experience for all.”

Recording the fastest time was Marianas Express Lines, which accomplished the feat in 7.84 seconds, while Marpac and FedEx capped the Top Three with times of 7.96 and 8.15 seconds. The three teams were recognized for their accomplishments shortly after the competition and were presented with trophies.

“Our strategy was just to concentrate and work as a team so that we can set ourselves up for a good shot at first place,” said Marianas Express Lines team captain Edgar Garcia. “We are just all happy that we were able to do it.”

The team was also co-captained by Tony Nekaifes.

Other teams that participated were Hyatt Regency Hotel Saipan, Rota Terminal and Transfer, Herman’s Bakery, Team Rota, IT&E, Verizon, Team Red Cross, Tan Holdings Corp., and Bankers.

Meanwhile, each participant went home with souvenir Plane Pull T-shirts.

Hirsh also commended the organizing committee for the success of the event.

“The event was organized very well this year,” he said. “The process was done quickly. We were supposed to be done at midnight, and we beat that mark by about two hours, so I know people are happy about that. They weren’t waiting long for their turn to pull.”

Teams pulled a rope attached to a tow bar connected to the front wheels of the aircraft, which measured at 129 feet long, 41 feet high, and 112 feet wide.

Before the competition, each team was required of an entry fee of $750 payable to the American Red Cross.

The Plane Pull was originally launched in 2001 during the 25th anniversary of the Saipan International Airport.

“This is a great opportunity to support the Red Cross while promoting team building excellence for your staff and management,” a statement from the Red Cross read. “The NMI Chapter works closely with CPA and all involved in the transportation industry during disasters. The American Red Cross is part of the U.S. government Federal Aviation Disaster Response Plan and plays a critical role in providing assistance to victims and their families after an aviation or ship accident.”

The event was sponsored by the American Red Cross, Continental Airlines, and Commonwealth Ports Authority Employees Association.