Cyclists take on the challenge of Hell of The Marianas 2023 in Saipan in December 2023. Hell of The Marianas 2024 — featuring 100K and 50K courses — returns on Dec. 7, 2024, and is organized by the Marianas Visitors Authority and Northern Mariana Islands Cycling Federation.
(MVA) — Tourism partners are putting safety first for the 155 bikers signed up for Saturday’s (Dec. 7) Hell of The Marianas century cycle in Saipan.
Ten countries and territories are represented in the pack, including the Netherlands, Russia, Ireland, USA, Canada, Japan, South Korea, Philippines, and The Marianas. The lineup includes the return of the 2023 race Professional Division winners, Ryohei Fujita and Rinichiro Shigeta of Japan for the men and Miso Kim of Korea for the women.
“It’s all systems ‘go’ and a nice weather forecast for Saturday, and bikers will be taking off from Marpi bright and early at 6 a.m.,” said Marianas Visitors Authority Managing Director Christopher A. Concepcion. “We encourage all drivers to drive slowly, exercise caution, and obey all traffic officers along the route, heading from Marpi to Beach Road and down to Koblerville, through Papago to Windward Road, down Capital Hill to Suicide Cliff and back. Good luck, bikers!”
All dog owners along the route are reminded to tie or fence their pets on Saturday morning for the protection of bikers.
“It’s going to be a grueling three hours or more — a test of sheer physical and mental strength,” said Northern Mariana Islands Cycling Federation President Vince Seman. “Thank you to all our event sponsors and organizers for joining the federation and MVA in making 2024 Hell of The Marianas possible. We invite everyone to come out and cheer for our bikers!”
The race is sponsored by TSL Foundation, Crowne Plaza Resort Saipan, United Airlines, Hawaiian Rock Product, Saipan Bike Pro, Seman Law Offices, Latte Built, and Turnkey Solutions. Event supporters are Department of Public Safety, Department of Public Works, Department of Fire and Emergency Medical Services, and Parks and Recreation.
The Hell of the Marianas features a 100-kilometer course that winds its way through Saipan’s hills, valleys, and scenic byways. Participants must navigate 4,900 feet of ascents, including steep climbs and fast descents, making it a true test of endurance and skill. The event is open to both amateur and professional riders.
For more information, contact NMI Cycling Federation President Vince Seman at nmicycling@gmail.com/.
