More than 500 runners to join Saipan Marathon

Over 500 runners from around the region are expected to hit the road tomorrow for the 11th Saipan Marathon.

Over 200 runners from Japan, as well as competitors from Korea, China, Guam, and U.S., made up the 510 runners who registered for the race, which for the first time will offer cash prizes to the fastest finishers in all categories.

Island residents are reminded to drive with extra caution and tie up their dogs this Saturday morning to ensure the safety of the runners. The race will start at the American Memorial Park at 4am for the 50K and marathon, at 5am for the half-marathon, and at 5:45am for the 10K.

“All the preparations are in order, the weather forecast looks good, and we’re expecting a great race tomorrow,” said Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA) community projects specialist Ed Diaz, head coordinator of the race. “Let’s all show our great island hospitality and make our visitors feel welcomed during the race and throughout their stay.”

All competitors are reminded to pick up their race packets today at 4pm at Paseo de Marianas without exception. Following the race, participants will be treated to an awards banquet after receiving their coveted finishers t-shirt and certificates of completion.

Major sponsors this year are: Scalp D, Mobit, Runtomo, Delta Air Lines, Hotel Association of the Northern Mariana Islands (HANMI), T Galleria, and Northern Mariana Athletics.

In-kind contributors are: Emperor Ent. Corp. dba Furusato Restaurant, Herman’s Modern Bakery, Pacific Subsea Saipan INC., Lao Lao Bay Golf & Resort, Pacific Islands Club Saipan, I- Mart, Kanoa Resort, Saipan Shipping Company, INC., Avis Rent A Car, McDonald’s, Hyatt Regency Saipan, NGT. Country House/Moby Dick, MARPAC, Triple J. Wholesale, Island Apparel, and Saipan Advertising.

Aid stations will be manned by members of HANMI and other groups, including: Northern Marianas Athletics, Pacific Islands Club Saipan, Coral Ocean Point Hotel & Golf Resort, Best Sunshine, Saipan World Resort, Kanoa Resort, Fiesta Resort & Spa, Tasi Tours & Transportation, Pacific Development Inc., Hyatt Regency Saipan, IT&E, Aqua Resort Club, Mariana Resort & Spa, Nepalese Community of Saipan, Marianas Health Services, and Northern Marianas College Nursing.

Additional support is being provided by the following government and private sector offices: Saipan Mayor’s Office, Division of Parks and Recreation, Department of Public Safety, American Memorial Park, Hawaiian Rock Products, Department of Public Works, Japan Saipan Travel Association, and school MY WAVE Clubs.

The Saipan Marathon is one of the sporting events organized annually by the Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA) and its tourism partners to attract visitors and media to Saipan and Tinian. The events are also enjoyed by local athletes. To find out more about upcoming MVA signature events and other activities in the Northern Marianas, visit the NMI Events Calendar at www.mymarianas.com. (PR)