The NMA’s annual event, which started in early March, received $3,359.92 from McDonald’s yesterday. This donation will be used for equipment and other necessities according to organizer Elias Rangamar.
“I’m very excited for these children, and now that summer’s approaching, we’d want to keep them active,” noted McDonald’s owner Joe Ayuyu.
“We need to keep these kids interested in track and field. I’m glad to see our young athletes become successful and compete in international events. We’re proud and happy to continue our efforts for this program.”
Preliminary events are ongoing at the Oleai track and field, with an average of 200 students from both public and private schools arriving each week. The championships are slated for May 6 (4 to 9 p.m.) and May 7 (8 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
“I want to thank McDonald’s and also the Public School System,” said Rangamar.
“This year we’ve got so much kids competing I had to modify the schedule, but this is all for the kids and we’d want them to compete as much as possible.”
McDonald’s Saipan has taken other active roles in the sports community, such as the sponsorship of a team in this year’s Saipan Little League Baseball season.
A couple more relay events will take place next week before the start of the finals, added Rangamar. A complete list of qualified participants will be available at a later date.
