Race organizers have announced that Ai Shibata, a Japanese Olympic gold medalist in the Athens 2004 Olympics, will join the 4th Annual Saipan International Open Water Flipper Race this Saturday.
Shibata will support over 30 other Japanese, who have registered for the event. Participants will have a final opportunity to register this Friday, June 22, from 4:30pm to 6:30pm at the American Memorial Park amphitheater.
Also, ferries will depart Smiling Cove Marina to Managaha promptly at 4:45am on Saturday, earlier than previously announced.
“Due to some scheduling conflicts, the ferries will depart on Saturday at 4:45am. We encourage participants to register early for logistical planning purposes, no later than Friday,” said MVA community projects manager Martin Duenas.
This weekend's race features a 1.5-km swim around Managaha, the most popular site for visitors to Saipan. This unique race requires swimmers to use wetsuits and fins. Snorkels and life jackets are also allowed. Competition age divisions are: 19-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, and 60-and-up. Those age 18-and-under will be entered into the Junior Division.
The race will begin at 6:30am, followed by an island-style breakfast and awards ceremony on the white sand beaches of Managaha.
Registration fee is $25 for CNMI residents with valid I.D. Participants must be in good health with snorkeling or diving experience.
The event is also sponsored by the Community Sports Center Foundation of Japan.
For more information or to register, contact the MVA at 1.670.664.3210, or visit the Events Calendar at www.mymarianas.com. (MVA)
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