NORTHERN Marianas Athletics has been recognized for working hard in organizing and holding several events throughout this year despite the Covid-19 pandemic.
NMA was one of the three finalists for the 2021 Federation of the Year Award for the Oceania region. Australia won the award.
In nominating NMA, the Oceania Athletics Association commended the Northern Marianas for successfully implementing “an impressive out of stadia program in 2021.”
It noted that NMA partnered “with DTE Endurance and Race Roster to increase participation not only within the Northern Marianas, but also allow…those outside, or on the outer islands, to participate virtually in their events.”
The Oceania Athletics Association or OAA likewise praised the “new Run Saipan series” which aims to help create a healthier NMI through the sport of running or athletics.
Another event recognized by OAA was the inaugural NMI Women’s 10km race.
“One of the main themes of the NMI Women’s 10k was for the teams…to choose a local…charity recipient for the prize money raised from the event,” OAA stated.
The winning team was SIS Cares for Animals which chose Saipan Cares for Animals as the recipient of the prize money.
OAA said NMA also “held their traditional athletics program, which included meets for…schools and open meets for senior and masters’ athletes. The McDonald’s All Schools Athletics Championships was a success.”
Moreover, “the Marianas relay, a new initiative with the CHCC-Community Guidance Center to support and raise awareness for mental health, was an overwhelming success.”
According to OAA, Northern Marianas Athletics’ schools cross-country series, held in the last quarter of the year, is going from strength to strength.
The series included invitational runners and not just runners representing their schools, OAA said.
Thank you!
NMA did not win the award, but its president, Ramon Tebuteb, said he is grateful that the local federation’s efforts were acknowledged in the region.
“It is an honor and an expression of appreciation for our athletes, sponsors, volunteers, the athletes’ parents and the community, including our media.”
Tebuteb said NMA is happy for the recognition of its hard work.
To be among the three finalists is an award in itself, and for Tebuteb, it only shows that local athletics will continue to grow.
“We will continue to promote the wellness and the well-being of our people, and that is the true reward for all our efforts,” he added.
Students gather for the elementary school division race of the All Schools Cross Country Championships held in October at the Saipan Country Club.
Ramon Tebuteb
