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NMITF qualifier this weekend
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Posted on Jan 10 2006
Only a few days remain before the Northern Mariana Islands Triathlon Federation hosts its second qualifying race for the team that will represent the three islands in the multi-sport event during the 2006 Micronesian Games this summer, and local triathletes are preparing for the challenge.
Despite a rash of foul weather that has plagued Saipan for the past few days, the multisport mavens are putting in the time to perfect their pace and grease their chains in advance of this weekend’s competition.
The chance to join endurance aficionados continues bright and early this Saturday, Jan. 14, at Pau Pau Beach, as triathletes tackle the 1.5km swim, 40km bike, and 10km run legs of the Olympic distance course. Registration begins at 5:45am, with the race getting underway when the swim kicks off at 6:30am.
The NMITF has also opened up the race to allow for teams and individuals looking for a test of their fitness and mental toughness. Race coordinator Sue Knecht said that teams are encouraged, and that lone racers not eligible for the Games can use the event as a stepping stone for the XTERRA Saipan Championship and Tagaman Triathlon in April.
While the NMITF already completed the first round of the Enticer Series at the close of 2005, the adrenaline junkies are going to offer it again later this month. The opportunity for first timers to get ready for competing in either of the April races is still a possibility, but window for getting ready for the swimming, cycling, and running is closing fast.
The next Enticer Series event will take pace at the end of the month when rookies take on the 350m swim, 10km bike, and 2km run on Saturday, Jan. 28. Those looking for a bit more of a challenge can participate the same day in the 750m swim, 20km bike, and 5km run Sprint race.
Those continuing along the multisport path for the first time also stand to gain from throwing their hat into the ring for the event as the NMITF will recognize the most improved rookie award at the end of March.
For more information about the next NMITF qualifier, the upcoming Enticer Series, or the Kids Tryathlon Series, contact Knecht via email at sueknecht1@yahoo.com. (Brad E. Ruszala)
