CNMI to benefit from sports tourism

Northern Marianas Sports Association executive director Tony Rogolifoi reiterated that the CNMI government would benefit if it further promotes sports tourism to attract off-island athletes and teams.

The Northern Marianas Sports Association is hoping to get additional funds to help them in renovating and improving the facilities at the Oleai Sports Complex. (Roselyn B. Monroyo)

That’s why, Rogolifoi added, Gov. Eloy S. Inos’ administration should also help finance the repairs and other improvements needed for Saipan’s sports facilities.

Rogolifoi renewed his call about the value of sports tourism as he also hopes the government would help NMSA in renovating the facilities damaged by several typhoons that hit the island.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency will give financial assistance to help augment the cost of repairs. FEMA had already inspected the Oleai Sports Complex, which will be the hub of activities when Saipan hosts for the first time the 2021 Pacific Mini Games.

“It would benefit us all. That’s why we’re hoping through FEMA’s assistance the repairs will be done quickly. If ever the government and legislature could also pitch in since we need all the help that we could get,” said Rogolifoi.

The Tagaman and XTERRA Saipan Championship triathlons and the Saipan Marathon are some of the off-island sports events that attract international athletes. Saipan also hosted the 2006 Micronesian Games.

The Irish national football team trained on Saipan in preparation for the 2002 World Cup that was co-hosted by Korea and Japan. Korean Baseball League squad the LG Twins also trained on Saipan during the winter season in Seoul.

The said events increase hotel occupancy and generate revenues for the CNMI government.

Rogolifoi, who is also the Saipan Baseball League coordinator, added this could be the same case in the coming years especially with the 2021 Pacific Mini Games.

“The Pacific Mini Games is just like the Micro Games but on a bigger scale. It will be Saipan’s first time to host the event so we want to put on a best show that would place us on the international map,” Rogolifoi said.

“It will not only the athletes from the different member nations of the Pacific Games Council who would come here but also their coaches, trainers, team officials, their families, and members of other media outfits.”

More than 1,000 delegates from the Pacific are expected to arrive for the Mini Games.

Athletics, badminton, baseball, canoe, golf, sailing, swimming, tennis, triathlon, volleyball (beach and indoor), weightlifting, and wrestling are the 12 proposed sports to be played in the 2021 Games.