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Escape from Managaha returns May 24
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Posted on May 06 2008
Long distance and adventure swimmers are once again invited to join the 6th Annual Escape From Managaha Island Ocean Swim set for May 24.
The annual 2.7-kilometer ocean swim is a unique event that gives participants the chance to thread the beautiful waters of the Saipan Lagoon from Managaha Island to the beaches of American Memorial Park.
The estimated time that the fastest swimmer to finish the ocean swim is between 45 to 65 minutes, depending on the water conditions. Organizers will also allow the use of fins and wetsuits.
Participants will be ferried from Saipan to Managaha Island where they would start the 2.7-km ocean swim going to Micro Beach at AMP.
The cost is $25 for Saipan Swim Club members, $30 for Northern Mariana Islands Triathlon Federation and Nadadore Master swimmers, and $35 for non-members of the three groups.
The entrance fee includes a boat ride, an event T-shirt, and food for the post-race barbecue.
Last year, SSC member Cooper Graf conquered the strong currents to top the race with a lung-busting time of 41 minutes and seven seconds followed by Marianas High School teacher Tyce Mister when he touched the orange buoy in 45:45. Tinian’s Ken Halliday surprised a few veterans as he became the third men’s overall finisher in 46:23.
Another teenager and SSC member Sarah Johnson managed to upstage masters swimmers in the women’s division finishing the Escape in 42:20. She beat Rachel Bandelin (46:17) and Grace Kimbal (46:54) in the race to Saipan.
A total of 40 swimmers participated in last year’s Escape From Managaha, including cancer survivor Mary Ann Stewart, who made the channel crossing a mere eight months after undergoing a mastectomy.
For more information or to pick up entry forms, email SSC head coach Michael Stewart at wfla@hotmail.com or call 287-9474.
