By James Sablan
james@mvariety.com
Variety News Staff
EARLIER this month, two Northern Mariana Islands track prospects, Simon Tang and Theodore Rodgers, proved they belong on the big stage with standout performances in their respective season openers in Ohio and Missouri.
Freshman Simon Tang delivered a strong debut for Oberlin College, placing fourth at the 12th Annual Spartan Holiday Classic on Dec. 6 in Cleveland, Ohio.
Competing in the 60-meter hurdles, the 18-year-old Tang showed poise beyond his years, powering through the heats in 8.98 seconds to qualify for the finals. He returned to shave off another hundredth in the final, clocking a personal-best 8.97 seconds to secure fourth place.
Tang also showcased his versatility in the 400-meter dash, posting a season-best time of 54.68 seconds.
For Tang, the debut validated months of rigorous training.
“Running my collegiate debut with a sub-9 race felt pretty good, but my team and I know where we are going and are working hard for what’s to come,” Tang said.
Although Tang set new personal and season bests, he said the work is far from over, with three more meets scheduled in January, along with international competitions for the NMI.
“I believe the determination of our team, a rigorous training program, and the passion of our coaches will bring the best outcomes for every individual, including myself,” Tang said. “As long as I stick to the plan and give my full effort, I will be ready for the upcoming year.”
Tang’s program includes six days of team training each week, with structured workouts and weight sessions every other day.
Asked what advice he would give to aspiring NMI athletes, Tang said, “No dream is too small, and no effort is too big.”
He also expressed gratitude to his family, coaches, and friends both back home and in Ohio.
“Above all, I thank God for guiding us through 2025. Happy holidays to everyone,” Tang said.
Explosive
While Tang competed in Ohio, fellow NMI standout Theodore Rodgers made his own mark at the Mel Tjeerdsma Classic in Maryville, Missouri, also on Dec. 6.
Rodgers, known for his explosive speed back home, opened his indoor collegiate career against a large field of competitors, setting personal-best times of 7.56 seconds in the 60-meter dash and 24.37 seconds in the 200-meter dash — laying a solid foundation for his freshman season.
James Sablan has been a sports reporter for Variety since 2013. He was a liberal arts student of Northern Marianas College and covers all local sports.
