Mau Fatu’ul Canoe Classic set for tomorrow
By Shan Seman
Staff Reporter
The Saipan Outrigger Canoe Federation’s 3rd Annual Mau Fatu’ul Classic will take place tomorrow, April 27, at 9am at the Civic Center Beach.
There are four categories in the competition, which includes a 12-and-under age group for elementary division, 13-17 age group for the junior division and an 18-above open division. Each age group also consists of both male and female divisions.
The 12-and-under division participants will compete in a 250m race, while the junior division will be 500m. The men and women’s open division will both have a 500m and 1500m race.
Each team is limited to eight paddlers, but only six are allowed for each race.
The federation will also be providing the six-man canoes for teams who lack the vessel.
Defending champions Fatu and Napu are also expected to take part in this year’s competition. Special guests in the competition also include the Voyagers, who recently completed their canoe trip from the Caroline Island of Satawal to Saipan last weekend. They will take part in the event, but will paddle just for the fun of it.
Registration is free for all teams, and is currently ongoing. Last minute registrations will be from 7am to 8am on Saturday morning. Prizes and trophies will be awarded after the competition.
To register or for more information, please contact Frank Mettao at 233-1320, Todd Sandvold at 664-3404, Josh Carpenter at 323-6584 or 323-6560 or Justin Andrew at 664-3023.