Saipan Marathon qualifier for Boston Marathon

Spectators and photographers wait for the runners at the finish line of last year’s Saipan Marathon. (Contributed Photo)

The 2019 Saipan Marathon set for March 9 has been certified by the International Association of Athletic Federations and the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races, making it a qualifying event for the prestigious Boston Marathon.

“The Marianas can be very proud of our Saipan Marathon, which is on par with marathons around the nation and the world,” said Marianas Visitors Authority managing director Christopher A. Concepcion. “We would love to see representatives from our home-grown marathon go on to run the Boston Marathon. That would be a real milestone for Saipan Marathon.”

Early bird deadline today
Meanwhile, runners competing in next month’s race need to register today to avail of the best rates.

The annual Saipan Marathon features 10K, half marathon, and full marathon courses and is a signature event of the MVA. Registrants can link to online signup at the MVA official website at www.mymarianas.com or at www.webscorer.com. The international early bird registration fee for the full marathon (ages 16 and older allowed) is $90 and for the half marathon and 10K is $60. For U.S. and CNMI residents with valid photo ID showing proof of residency and who register by Feb. 8, the registration fees for the full marathon is $55 and for the half marathon and 10K is $45. Registrants are reminded to select their proper category, international or CNMI/U.S., on the website. Rates will increase after Feb. 8.

“Saipan Marathon 2019 is just a month away, and we hope all runners will avail of the early bird rate by registering by this Friday (Feb. 8),” said MVA Community Projects manager Martin Duenas. “Registering by Friday will also guarantee that their name is included in the official race booklet. We’re looking forward to a great turnout and encourage everyone to register early.”

Runners will receive finishers T-shirt, finishers medal, and entry to the awards banquet at Fiesta Resort & Spa Saipan.

Joining the MVA as exclusive sponsors of this year’s marathon are Skechers and Powerade. Platinum sponsor is IT&E. Gold sponsors are Hotel Association of the Northern Mariana Islands, Hyatt Regency Saipan, and Fiesta Resort & Spa Saipan. Silver sponsors are T Galleria by DFS, Tokyo Jusen, DEEN International, Grandvrio Resort Saipan, The Athlete’s Foot, Boarderline, and All Star Sporting Goods. Additional sponsors are Vladivostok International Ice Run and Skydive Saipan.

Aid stations will be manned by Hyatt Regency Saipan, Pacific Development Inc., Kinpachi Restaurant, Grandvrio Resort Saipan, Fiesta Resort & Spa, Kanoa Resort, Coca-Cola/Foremost, Pacific Islands Club, Imperial Pacific Int’l CNMI, IT&E, Aqua Resort Club, Kensington Hotel Saipan, Tasi Tours Transportation, and Marianas Base Camp.

Supporting agencies and companies are American Memorial Park, Dept. of Public Safety, Dept. of Fire & Emergency Medical Services, Div. of Parks and Grounds, Dept. of Public Works, Dept. of Public Lands, Saipan Mayor’s Office, Hawaiian Rock Products, and Marianas Health Services.

For more information, visit The Marianas Calendar at www.mymarianas.com or contact MVA Community Projects Division at 1-670-664-3210 or communityprojects@mymarianas.com. (Saipan Tribune)