The race has attracted over hundreds of running enthusiasts willing to cruise its 13.7 mile-long course across the western coast of Saipan. It starts from Pacific Islands Club’s south parking lot in Beach Road, San Antonio to Marpi’s Last Command Post.
Participants will compete in teams of five members who will alternate through one-mile stages. Each team must consist of either one 16 year-old runner or younger, one female runner, or one who is 40 years of age or older.
In addition, an 18-and-under division will be available. All members must be 18 years old or younger, and teams require at least one female.
Solo runners are also encouraged to tackle the same distance in an attempt to break the race’s current record and have bragging rights for the year.
Entry fee is $25 per team ($5 per member) and $10 for solo runners. Registration opens 5 a.m. on Saturday and the race will start at 6 a.m. Prizes will be awarded to members of the top three team finishers, and a traditional prize will be given to the top solo finisher. In addition, other items will be raffled off as well.
As its last event of every busy year, the NMA hosts its Christmas relays in the spirit of good tidings and goodwill for all runners and organizers, and as a way to reach out and thank those who participate in past NMA events.
The relay is just one of the many activities that the NMA holds in its efforts to promote national physical fitness, health and wellness, the fight against obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and other medical conditions that plague the CNMI.
To register or for more information, contact NMA’s Elias Rangamar at eli_rang@yahoo.com.
