Saipan Marathon all set for January

Northern Marianas Athletics and Marianas Visitors Authority are at the starting blocks for the annual Saipan Marathon set for January 2009.

Local and international competitors are anticipated to join the marathon on Jan. 17, which will consist of a full marathon (42.195 km), a half marathon (21.079 km), and a 10-km fun run along Saipan’s scenic roadways.

The fee to register for the full marathon is $35 and the half and 10km is $25. A late fee of $10 will be added for registration after Jan. 9, and all interested participants are encouraged to register early. The last day of registration is Jan. 16. No entries will be accepted on the day of the race.

Orientation for all participants will be held at 4pm on Jan. 16 at the American Memorial Park Amphitheater, followed by a carbo spaghetti dinner party at 5pm.

The marathon will begin at 4am, while the half marathon and 10-km run will begin at 5:45am. All runners will begin at Micro Beach at American Memorial Park overlooking Managaha Island.

The following are the routes for the three events:

– The Full Marathon Course: Micro Beach north along Middle Road through the villages of Puerto Rico, Tanapag, and San Roque; turnaround in the peaceful greenery of Marpi right after passing Marianas Resort Hotel; return to connect with the Half Marathon Course;

– The Half Marathon Course: Micro Beach south along Beach Road along Saipan’s western lagoon; through the villages of Garapan, San Jose, Susupe, Chalan Kanoa, and San Antonio; turnaround at Pacific Islands Club; return and finish at Micro Beach; and

– The 10-km Course: Micro Beach south along Beach Road; through the villages of Garapan and San Jose; turnaround in-front of First Hawaiian Bank; return and finish at Micro Beach.

The age divisions for the full marathon are up to 40, 40-49, and 50 years and up. The half and 10km age groups are 14 and under, 15-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59 and 60 plus. Prizes will be given out for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place in each category. Raffle drawings for prizes will also be held at the banquet. All runners will receive a finisher’s T-shirt after the event.

To register or for more information, contact Ed Diaz at 664-3210 or email at ediaz@mymarianas.com. [B](PR)[/B]