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7th Saipan Marathon set for March 3
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Posted on Dec 03 2011
One of the Pacific region’s fastest growing races returns for its 7th running on March 3, 2012, with the staging of the Saipan Marathon in the Northern Mariana Islands.
With 800 plus runners in 2011, the Marianas Visitors Authority is planning for even more participants in the next round.
“The Saipan Marathon continues to grow in popularity, and we’re looking forward to our biggest participation yet in March 2012,” said MVA Community Projects manager Martin Duenas. “Once again, our goal is to have a seamless event for the runners, and we’ve already started working on our checklists, locally and internationally.”
The 2011 running of the event received a big boost from the participation of popular Japanese comedian and NMI Tourism Ambassador Kanpei Hazama, who attracted a large number of followers, media coverage, and sponsorship last year. Hazama is expected to return in 2012.
“Our Japan office has already commenced outreach to running groups via the Internet and at other marathons in Japan,” said MVA Marketing manager Bruce Bateman. “We are also lining up media coverage for both pre- and post-event coverage to make the most of this event with international publicity.”
The 7th Annual Saipan Marathon will feature a full marathon (26.2 miles/42.195 kilometers), a half marathon (13.1 mi./21.1 km), and a 10K (6.2 miles). The full marathon begins at 4:30am, followed by the next two races.
CNMI and U.S. early bird registration (by Feb. 2, 2012), is $55 for the marathon and $45 for the half marathon and 10K. Registration after Feb. 2 will be an additional $10. International rates are $100 for the full marathon and $70 for the half marathon and 10K. The last day to register is 5pm, Feb. 9. The entry fee includes the awards banquet, finisher’s T-shirt, and a certificate of completion.
For a registration form or more information, visit www.mymarians.com or http://japan.mymarianas.com/saipanmarathon/ or contact Ed Diaz of the Marianas Visitors Authority at ediaz@mymarianas.com or 664-3200/1. (PR)
