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Two entertainers from Japan to shoot in Rota
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Posted on Feb 14 2001
Shingo Katori and Masahiro Nakai, members of SMAP, Japan’s top idol group, will run a marathon on Rota’s scenic highways on March 16. The event will be filmed for national broadcast in Japan.
“We’re very pleased that these famous Japanese entertainers will come to Rota,” said Mayor Benjamin T. Manglona. “This race will provide a fine opportunity for Rota to showcase its hospitality and demonstrate its beautiful scenery.”
The entertainment group SMAP is featured on a very popular television variety show in Japan. The television show, SMAP x. SMAP, has been on the air for six years. Currently, it is the most popular TV program in Japan.
A film crew from FUJI Television will be on Rota to short this SMAP x. SMAP segment. Mr. Manglona said up to 80 people will come to Rota to film the marathon between Mr. Katori and Mr. Nakai.
The foot race between the two stars will be produced as a segment for the SMAP x. SMAP Rota marathon.
“The exposure for Rota and CNMI tourism will be considerable,” said Mr. Manglona. “This event fits nicely with Rota’s self-help efforts to promote tourism. As well, events like this support out eco-tourism image.”
The SMAP x. SMAP television segment will focus on the physical strength and endurance of Mr. Masahiro Nakai and Mr. Shingo Katori. Preparations are already underway in Rota to host the FUJI Television crew.
“We hope Continental Airlines returns to the Rota market,” said Mr. Manglona. “With events like this FUJI television special and the celebrity wedding to be held in Rota this week, it’s clear Rota is already for prime time.”
“What comes first the ‘chicken’ or the egg??? asked the mayor. “Continental says it will fly jets to Rota when the market is bigger, yet the market cannot increase without better air service. Well, with all the promotion Rota has enjoyed, lately, we say the market is here and we invite Continental to be our partners for progress.”
