Festival of Runs draws hundreds of athletes

The 2009 Winter Festival of Runs set for tomorrow is slated to be the biggest yet with over 400 registered participants and more signing up.

“We’re very pleased with the high international turnout,” said Marianas Visitors Authority managing director Perry Tenorio. “With the number of participants and streamlined operations this year, we’re looking forward to the best festival run, yet.”

Runners have already started arriving from Japan, China, Guam, and other off-island locations this week for the competition, which will consist of the full Saipan Marathon (42.195 km), a half marathon (21.079 km) and a 10k fun run along Saipan’s scenic roadways.

Adding to the professionalism of the event, an automated, chip-technology timing system will be utilized by timing company Keisoku-kobo. The system will provide fast and accurate results for each athlete. The course was also re-measured last month by Bridge Enterprise of Japan, and turnaround points have changed slightly to ensure accuracy of course distance. Returning Japan celebrity Okushi Erika and 30 travel agents competing as members of a Northwest Airlines familiarization tour are among those joining the event.

“The Winter Festival of Runs is one of our annual signature events designed to showcase the attraction of our islands. We’re expecting our beautiful weather in January to make an impact on competitors coming from winter climates,” said Tenorio. “We’re ready and looking forward to another year of new records and lasting memories.”

Orientation for all participants is mandatory and will be held at 4pm today, Jan. 16, at American Memorial Park Amphitheater. The orientation will include a briefing on the new timing system and distribution of bibs containing the timing chip, followed by a carbo spaghetti dinner party at 5pm. The last day to register will be Jan. 16 from 4pm to 7:30pm at the orientation.

Register for the full marathon is now $45 and the half marathon and 10k is $35. No entries will be accepted on the day of the race.

The start time for the marathon will be 4:30am, and the half marathon and 10k run will begin at 5:45am. The awards banquet will be held the same day at 12:30pm at Hyatt Regency Saipan garden.

All runners will begin at Micro Beach at American Memorial Park within view of Managaha Island. The Full Marathon Course: from Micro Beach north along Middle Road through the villages of Puerto Rico, Tanapag, and San Roque; turnaround in the peaceful greenery of Marpi right before reaching the Far East Broadcasting Company turnoff; return to connect with the Half Marathon Course. The Half Marathon Course: from Micro Beach south on Beach Road along Saipan’s western lagoon; through the villages of Garapan, San Jose, Susupe, Chalan Kanoa, and San Antonio; turnaround at the YTT Gold Building at the road entrance to San Antonio church; return and finish at Micro Beach. The 10-km Course: Micro Beach south along Beach Road; through the villages of Garapan and San Jose; turnaround in-front of Pacific Outlet; return and finish at Micro Beach.

Outer southbound lanes will be closed on the course the morning of the event, and drivers are asked to exercise caution and follow police direction. Additionally, roadside parking in Garapan will be closed on the outer southbound lane from the Department of Public Safety sub-station south to Joeten Hafa Adai Shopping Center from 3am to 12pm on Saturday.

The age divisions for the full marathon are up to 40, 40-49, and 50 years and up. The half and 10k 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.

Major sponsors of the event are: Northwest Airlines, Oakley, MVA, Northern Mariana Athletics, and DFS Galleria Saipan. Supporting companies and agencies are Department of Public Safety, Hawaiian Rock, American Memorial Park, Division of Parks and Recreation, Department of Public Works (Roads and Grounds), Commonwealth Health Center, and Ahn Corporation of Japan.

MVA is also gearing up for the 2nd Annual Marianas Coffee Trail Run on Jan. 31, 2009.

To register for the Winter Festival or Runs or for more information, contact Ed Diaz of MVA at telephone numbers 1-670-664-3210 or email at ediaz@mymarianas.com. [B][I](PR)[/I][/B]