CNMI, Palau sign MOU To co-promote marathons

In a bid to attract more athletes and attention to certified marathons in Micronesia, the Marianas and Palau are joining forces to co-promote each other’s annual marathons.

The Marianas Visitors Authority, Palau Visitors Authority, and Palau Athletics have signed an MOU this month to promote, share information, and encourage participation in the Belau Omal Marathon—just held on Sept. 1 in Koror, Palau—and Saipan Marathon—slated for March 9, 2025, in the Marianas.

“This MOU between the MVA, Palau Athletics, and PVA is another initiative in promoting Micronesia to the world alongside our brothers and sisters from the region,” said MVA managing director Christopher A. Concepcion. “Both Belau Omal Marathon and Saipan Marathon are certified courses highlighting the natural beauty of our destinations, the friendliness of our people, and our ability to deliver a professional race to runners from throughout the world. Congratulations to Palau on their successful race this month, and we look forward to growing the partnership.”

The areas of cooperation include each party promoting the other’s marathon through websites, social media, newsletters, and event materials; sharing best practices and strategies for event planning and management; and encouraging participation in the partner marathon, fostering cultural exchange and mutual support. Additionally, the first marathon finisher in each race will receive a complimentary entry into the sister marathon.

Saipan Marathon and Belau Omal Marathon are certified measured courses by World Athletics in cooperation with AIMS (Association of International Marathons and Distance Races). Saipan Marathon is co-organized by Northern Marianas Athletics and is sanctioned under the Northern Marianas Athletics rules and regulations.

Registration for Saipan Marathon is open at https://raceroster.com/events/2025/92790/saipan-marathon-2025. Early bird registration through Oct. 31, 2024, is $80 for the full marathon, $60 for the half marathon, and $50 for the 10K and 5K. For CNMI residents and U.S. military, the early bird rate is $60 for the full marathon, $50 for the half marathon, and $40 for the 10K and 5K. With valid photo ID, youth ages 18 or younger on March 5, 2025, may register for 10K or 5K for $35 through Oct. 31, 2024. However, full marathon participants must be age 16 or older. Half marathon participants must be age 14 or older.

For more information, visit https://raceroster.com or www.mymarianas.com or contact MVA Community Projects coordinator Ed Diaz at (670) 664-3210 or communityprojects@mymarianas.com. (PR)