Following the 100-kilometer Hell of the Marianas next month, the race will include a road course and short and long mountain bike courses.
“It’ll be great and it’s something for Saipan’s bicyclists. It’s a healthy way to celebrate our anniversary,” said Beach Road’s Susan Marchitti in an interview.
The race also marks the launching of the non-profit NMICF, led by President Vince Seman and Vice President Lewie Tenorio.
“The NMICF intends to encourage high performance and fun cycling competitions in the CNMI through collaboration with other athletic organizations, government, agencies, and business,” said Seman in a press release.
“As a result of the efforts of local cycling clubs and triathlon organizations, the number of cyclists and enthusiasm for the sport in the CNMI has increased in recent years. The NMICF hopes to continue this trend by assisting these organizations with administering racing events to allow athletes in the CNMI to qualify for international competitions.”
“It will be a great opportunity to get back on the bike after the HOM and at the same time become a part of history by participating in the launching of the NMICF,” added Tenorio.
Road cyclists will ride through Suicide and Banzai Cliff, the Grotto, and Bird Island before returning to Paupau Beach.
Mountain bike riders will cruise through the Kimikazi trail and the road near Marianas Country Club, among other sites in the short course. In the long course, cyclists will ride through the Kimikazi and Autobahn trails before reaching Banzai Cliff and returning to Paupau.
A children’s race will be held at the parking area near Paupau Beach. Medals and prizes will be given to each category’s winners.
Entry fee is $10 per person.
Marchitti thanks the following sponsors: PHI Pharmacy, Saipan Grand Hotel, Brabu Pharmacy, Docomo Pacific, and Subway.
