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Team building at Saipan Tropical Ekiden
Charlie Sendin cruises along Beach Road during a local race last month. The island’s running enthusiasts are invited to join Saipan Tropical Ekiden set for June 4.
(Contributed Photo)
The Marianas Visitors Authority is offering businesses, government offices, sports teams, community groups, families, and more the opportunity for team building with its newest signature event—the Saipan Tropical Ekiden set for June 4.
“Ekiden is a long-distance relay race originating in Japan, where universities, especially, show their school pride and form bonds through interscholastic competition. Like American football or other sports, it can become quite emotional as each team member contributes to the effort,” said MVA managing director Christopher A. Concepcion. “It’s going to be a great opportunity for businesses, community groups and others to bond over a common and physically demanding effort, a 3-hour relay marathon. Co-workers can also show their organizational pride by cheering their team on. The emphasis is friends, family, and fun.”
The 3-hour relay marathon in Garapan will feature two categories: composite division for ages 18 and older, and general division for any age (at least one member age 18 or older is required when minors are included on the team).
Each team will continuously run a 2K course from 5pm to 8pm, beginning at Garapan Fishing Base and through downtown Garapan, switching to the Saipan Beach Pathway for the latter part of the race into the evening.
General division teams may have two to 10 members. Composite division teams may register in groups of up to four members, who may be combined with other groups to form teams of five to 10 members.
Registration for CNMI and U.S. residents is $20/person for high school students and adults and $10/person for elementary and junior high students. A U.S. or CNMI Driver’s License of CNMI ID is required. Entry fee includes the awards ceremony and barbecue following the race, memorial towel, and certificate of completion.
The race is organized by MVA and Japan-Saipan Cultural Exchange Association and supported by Hori Production and ORLAIGH.
Application and fact sheets are available under Events Calendar of mymarianas.com. For more information, contact MVA community projects specialist Ed Diaz at ediaz @mymarianas.com or 670-664-3200/01. (PR)
