By Bryan Manabat
bryan@mvariety.com
Variety News Staff
THE Marianas Visitors Authority has officially announced the launch of “SWIM in the Marianas,” a cultural and recreational exchange with the swimming community in China.
The inaugural event is scheduled for Dec. 2 and will bring approximately 100 swimmers and their families from China to Saipan for a five-night stay featuring ocean activities, sightseeing, and community engagement.
SWIM, which stands for Saltwater Invigorating Movement, was conceived during a meeting in Guangzhou earlier this year between MVA representatives and Yang Dong Hai, a prominent figure in China’s swimming community and a returning visitor to Saipan.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Mr. Yang and the Guangzhou Tianhe District Swimming Association,” said MVA Managing Director Jamika Taijeron at a press conference Friday. “The association’s passion for promoting health and wellness through swimming and water sports made them an ideal partner for the Marianas. Their members travel across China and the world to participate in events that celebrate both sport and community — values we hold dear here at home.”
An advance delegation arrived last week to assess ocean conditions and scout potential sites for the one-kilometer swim. The group also toured Saipan’s iconic attractions, including Managaha, the Grotto, Bird Island, and various local businesses.
“Tides, weather, and safety logistics are key factors in site selection,” Taijeron said. “MVA’s Community Projects Division, known for organizing successful ocean swims in recent years, is leading the coordination alongside local authorities and partners.”
In a statement to Variety, Yang said, “Over the years, we have successfully organized large-scale swimming events in countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, the Philippines, Korea, and Russia. Each event welcomed 1,000 to 2,000 participants and received full support from local governments.
“In May, Managing Director Taijeron graciously visited our association and encouraged us to consider Saipan as the host location. Her support and vision have been instrumental in bringing this initiative to life,” he added. “Some members have previously visited the Marianas and participated in the Ironman triathlon. They were deeply impressed by Saipan’s natural beauty, warm hospitality, and ideal conditions for outdoor sports. Inspired by their experiences — and encouraged by Ms. Taijeron — our association agreed to bring 100 swimmers for next month’s event, with potential for future collaboration.”
Yang emphasized the broader goal: “Through this swim, we aim to promote Marianas sports tourism and foster meaningful cultural exchange between our members and the local community.”
Event organizer Ben Yip noted the significance of rebuilding tourism ties post-pandemic. “Before Covid, Saipan was booming in China. Now, everything has changed. We need to rebuild together.”
Taijeron said the Dec. 2 group may be followed by additional waves of visitors. “They are planning another event the following week, and maybe a third,” she said. “With only two flights a week from Hong Kong, they can’t accommodate a full group at once.”
The Guangzhou Tianhe District Swimming Association has more than 40,000 members across China and regularly hosts leisure swim events worldwide, some drawing thousands of participants. The Saipan swim will be non-competitive, emphasizing healing, exercise, and cultural exchange.
Local organizations, such as 500 Sails, the Saipan Swim Club, and the U.S. Coast Guard are expected to support the event. Community members will have opportunities to volunteer or participate, with safety a top priority — especially with minors among the visiting swimmers. MVA plans to engage boating safety agencies and nonprofits to ensure a secure experience.
Beyond the swim, the itinerary will highlight Saipan’s natural beauty, including its lagoon, seagrass beds, sea cucumbers, turtles, and seasonal fish. Educational components on reef conservation and ecotourism are also in development.
Organizers are exploring future expansions to Rota and Tinian, recognizing the unique experiences each island offers.
“This is just the beginning,” Taijeron said. “We hope to share the magic of the Marianas with even more visitors in the months to come.”
MVA encourages those interested in volunteering or participating to stay tuned for updates or reach out to the visitors authority directly.
Bryan Manabat was a liberal arts student of Northern Marianas College where he also studied criminal justice. He is the recipient of the NMI Humanities Award as an Outstanding Teacher (Non-Classroom) in 2013, and has worked for the CNMI Motheread/Fatheread Literacy Program as lead facilitator.
