Crews from four television stations and two magazines in Japan came to the Northern Mariana Islands last Saturday to cover the 6th Saipan Marathon, bringing an estimated $800,000 in international ad exposure for this island’s resort destination.
This year’s marathon, half-marathon, and 10K have attracted a record number 833 competitors, who will trace a picturesque course along Saipan’s scenic coastline, unspoiled northern greenery, and major tourist district. “You can all now say that you are part of a record setting event here in the Mariana Islands” said acting governor Eloy S. Inos.
“It is with great pleasure for me to say congratulations to you all for finishing and completing the race” he further said. The event is an annual signature event of the Northern Marianas organized by the Marianas Visitors Authority.
“The primary purpose of all the MVA’s annual sporting events remains to draw visitors to the Northern Marianas and capitalize on international media coverage,” said MVA Managing Director Perry Tenorio.
“The funds we spend to put on these events are a sound investment to attract this level of publicity, and we thank our sponsors and the community for helping us to make this event a success.”
“This year’s marathon marks not only the largest number of runners we’ve ever had, but the largest amount of international media coverage, as well,” said MVA Marketing Manager Bruce Bateman.
“We’re pleased to see many months of preparation both on-island and in our Japan and Korea offices pay off this weekend. We hope all our visitors have a great time and we wish them good luck in the races.” exclaimed Bateman.
Television programs covering the event included FBS Genki Matsuri, reaching over 356,000 household in the Fukuoka area. The 15-minute program included an interview with celebrity runner Kanpei Hazama, who has been instrumental in having this year’s Saipan Marathon affiliated with the prestigious Earth Marathon series in Japan.
Other stations and programs that covered the event were Miyagi TV, reaching 87,000 households across Japan; Hirujige-don, reaching almost 60,000 households in the Nagasaki area; and Gokigen Bonito!, reaching 34,000 households nationwide.
Two female celebrities and one female reporter joined the marathon as part of the coverage.
Magazines Fujin Kouron and Chikyu no Hashirikata (Travel and Run!) also covered the event.
