One of the premiere snorkeling spots in the Pacific, Managaha is a tiny island in the lagoon of Saipan, the capital of the Northern Marianas Islands.
Over 60 participants from Japan have confirmed to make the three-hour flight to Saipan for the Marianas Visitors Authority’s annual signature event.
The unique race allows swimmers to use fins, snorkels, and wet suits or life jackets. There will be several age divisions: 19-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-and-over. Participants 18 years old and below will be entered in the junior division.
Ferries depart promptly at 4:45 a.m. on the day of the race, carrying participants, officials, and spectators to Managaha. The race starts at 6:30 a.m. with an island-style breakfast and awards ceremony at 8:30 a.m.
The event is also sponsored by the Community Sports Center Foundation of Japan.
“We are again very fortunate to have the continued support of the foundation in promoting the Saipan International Open Water Flipper Race in Japan,” said MVA’s community projects manager Martin Duenas. “Of course, we were happy to hear their advice after the initial devastation of the Japan earthquake that there were still interested registrants from Japan. We welcome all local swimmers and snorkelers to join our international competitors in this fun event.”
Entry fee for NMI residents with IDs is $25. Deadline to register with the MVA is Friday, June 17, from 4 to 6 p.m. during the orientation at the American Memorial Park Amphitheater. Participants must be in good health with snorkeling or diving experience. Masks, snorkels, fins, and wet suits or life jackets are required.
For more information or to register, contact the MVA at 1-670-664-3200/01 or send an email to Edward Diaz at [email protected] or Frank Tudela at [email protected].
