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Walkathon for a cause commences on May 20
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Posted on Apr 24 2001
Health enthusiasts, people who have a passion for walking and those who just love to contribute to a charitable cause are encouraged to participate in the second SOPHIA Friendship Walk on May 20.
The walk will start at the American Memorial Park and end at the Saipan Grand Hotel and will utilize the scenic seven-kilometer path along Beach Road.
According to one of the event’s organizers, JM Guerrero, walkathon is a fast emerging sport and leisure activity in Japan. There was even one event where a total of 15,000 people participated, according to him.
Mr. Guerrero said the SOPHIA Friendship Walk has four goals. Its first goal is to help promote the island as a “sports and leisure destination”; the second is to imbibe friendship between Japan and the Northern Marianas; third, to add another event for tourists and residents alike to enjoy; and fourth, to advance physical health and mental well being.
During last year’s inaugural event, a total of 125 people participated in the fund-raising activity. Of the number, 85 were from Japan.
The youngest participant was Mr. Guerrero’s own five-year old son and the oldest was an 85-year old from Japan.
This year, Mr. Guerrero hopes to draw more than 200 participants to the SOPHIA Friendship Walk.
Participants to the event will have to donate $25, which covers a T-shirt, a certificate and medal and entitles them to partake of an island-style barbecue and enjoy entertainment after the walk.
SOPHIA is short for Saipan Outdoor Physical Invigorating Adventure.
The SOPHIA Friendship Walk is being organized by Taga, Inc. and is co-sponsored by the MVA and the Nippon Turtle Association, Japan.
The event is also supported by the Department of Public Safety, Bank of Guam, JM and Associates, and Saipan Tribune.
Registration forms are available from any of the following establishments — JM and Associates, MVA and Ada Gym c/o Mr. Bill Sakovich. (Mark Rabago)
