The NMI’s top cross-country athletes will see action at the 2024 Asia Pacific Invitational Cross Country Championship in Resol no Mori, Japan on Oct. 21-22.
TWENTY of the NMI’s top cross-country athletes are gearing up for the 2024 Asia Pacific Invitational Cross Country Championship at Resol no Mori, Japan, on Oct. 21-22!
This stellar team, made up of runners from Agape Christian School, Marianas High School, Saipan International School, and Saipan Southern High School, is ready to take on the region’s best in the 5-kilometer race and relay events.
On the girls’ team are Kaithlyn Chavez (SIS), Addalee Taflinger (SIS), Zhaoyu Shen (ACS), Aubrey White (SIS), Jiamei Hong (ACS), Ruishi Zhu (ACS), Julie Chavez (SIS), Catherine Pan (MHS), Jian Chun (MHS), and Panpan Zhang (ACS). Kaithlyn Chavez, a standout runner, made the All-Island team at last year’s API in Guam, where her performance was impressive and inspiring.
The boys’ team includes Victor Nash Santos (SIS), Takeru Jim (MHS), Yile Wang (ACS), Michael Miller (MHS), Yongqi Fan (ACS), Ziheng Cai (ACS), Simon Tang (SSHS), Landen Taflinger (SIS), Ruizhe Zhu (ACS), and Lang Yang (ACS). Michael Miller, another returning All-Island star, earned his spot on the team with an outstanding showing at the 2023 API in Guam.
“This is an incredible opportunity for these athletes to shine on the international stage,” said Dr. Ron Snyder, Northern Marianas Athletics distance coach. “They’ve been working hard, and we’re confident they’ll represent the NMI with pride!”
Set against the scenic backdrop of Resol no Mori’s challenging 5k forest course, this competition offers more than just a race. The API fosters a spirit of cultural exchange, teamwork, and international sportsmanship, allowing athletes from different nations to connect and grow both on and off the field.
The team’s participation was made possible by the generous support of Run Saipan, Northern Marianas Athletics, and PSS Athletics, with essential funding from the PSS-Federal Programs Office. This backing has provided the athletes with an unforgettable opportunity to compete at the highest level. Notably, the team’s eye-catching uniforms were designed by athletes Kaithlyn Chavez and Addalee Taflinger, adding a personal touch to their international journey.
The entire NMI community is rooting for these young runners as they take on the best in the region. For more information, visit the API website at: https://kantoxc.caj.ac.jp/details.html/.
