The event attracted 29 competitors from Japan, many whom traveled to the NMI with friends and family. 16 swimmers from Saipan also joined the race and captured many top slots in various divisions.
Finishing first for the males was Saipan’s Kensuke Kimura (21:29), with Daisuke Akama of Japan close on his heels (21:37). Rounding out the top three slots was Kaisei Toda of Saipan (24:45).
Winning first in the females’ category was pre-teen Angel Tan of Saipan (24:56), with Japan’s Tomie Kunimoto (28:17) beating Angel De Jesus (28:39) for second place.
“The Saipan International Open Water Flipper Race is a real island-style event — a great swim in the quiet water of Managaha followed by an island-style breakfast and an awards ceremony under the palapala (hut) on the island,” said Marianas Visitors Authority’s community projects manager Martin Duenas.
“Numbers were slightly lower to due to the March earthquake and tsunami in Japan, so we are still evaluating the cost-benefit impact of the event in consideration for next year. However, we count it a success that the swimmers came out of the water with smile on their faces and that logistically, the race went off without a hitch.”
Saipan’s Daishi Hiroki timed in at 26:47 to top the 19-29 division. Japan’s Tatsuya Tamagawa ruled the 30-39 division at 38:48 and Akira Asahi won in the 40-49 division at 25:21.
Other top finishers by age category were: Saipan’s Miku Tammy (10-and-under at 31:17), Shigeki Tenorio (16-18 division at 28:42), Takumi Sugie (13-15 division at 25:53), Kaito Yanai (11-12 division at 26:07), Hiroto Yanai (10U-males at 34:15), Hideki Kimura (50-59 division at 25:58), USA’s Perry Connor (29:43), Mie Obata of Japan (60-and-above at 35:55), Akiko Yajima (50-59 division at 33:11), Harumi Goto (40-49 division at 32:48), Asako Omori (30-39 division at 38:49), and Chieko Nagao(19-29 division at 36:57).
The annual tournament was launched by the MVA in 2009 to capitalize on the popularity of Managaha in Japan.
