NMITF Enticer Triathlon next week

Following the success of the second Enticer Triathlon in Marpi last month, the Northern Marianas Islands Triathlon Federation is offering the third abbreviated race in it’s series aimed at getting people hooked on a healthier lifestyle provided for by the multi-sport activity.

The NMITF will not be going it alone next week, as this time the Duty Free Shoppers is a co-sponsor for the “DFS Galleria Sprint Race” on Saturday, Jan. 15, at Pau Pau beach. Competitors from the previous races will be increasing their distances to their longest yet, as the Enticer lengths are stretched to the 600M swim, a 15K bike, and a 4K run of a sprint distance.

In addition to the distance of the abbreviated enticer race, there will be a double sprint distance to serve as a female qualifier for the SPG triathlon team, and as a longer event for those who need a tune-up for the Tinian Olympic Distance Triathlon on Saturday, Feb. 19.

There is an additional option available for those favoring the run or swim portions of the course, as teams have been permitted and encouraged throughout the series.

The NMITF officials specifically put together the beginners’ series to prepare the beginners to tackle the Tinian triathlon in February 2005. When the triathlon across the channel comes to a close, they will award a free entry to Tagaman triathlon in April to the most promising rookie of the series.

This won’t be the only NMITF activity of the month, as runners will have plenty of time to stretch their legs before the MVA Half Marathon and 10 K race at the American Memorial Park on Saturday, Jan. 22.

Registration for the enticer triathlon will begin at Registration is 3:15p in the Pau Pau Beach parking lot, followed by a 4:15p go time. Immediately after the race, the organizers will host a potluck dinner at the pavilion on the beach.

It is mandatory that all riders wear protective helmets, and it is recommended that racers plan on arriving at least an half-hour prior to the start of the race in order to set up their bikes, gear, and have a small warm-up.

The cost to enter is $5 for NMITF members and $10 for non-members. The annual fee to become a member of the NMITF is $25.

Interested racers may pre-register by submitting their intentions to race director Sue Knecht via email at sueknecht1@yahoo.com.