NMI wraps up strong performance on Day 2

Day 2 of the Asia Pacific Invitational Cross Country Championships concluded with Team NMI continuing to demonstrate resilience and teamwork, earning a solid ninth place overall in the competition last Tuesday at Resol no Mori, Japan. Competing against 37 schools, NMI athletes excelled in both individual races and the relay event, capping off a remarkable showing at the largest API in history.

After two days of intense competition, Team NMI secured ninth place overall, with a combined total score of 27 points. The team’s consistency across the boys, girls, and relay categories showcased their strength in a very competitive pool.

The boys team finished in seventh place overall, while the girls team 11th place overall.

The relay race saw Team NMI finish ninth overall, with standout efforts from all team members. The team of Saipan International School teammates Nash Santos and Addalee Taflinger pushed into first place, finishing in 13th place. In the team relay event, pairs of students alternated 1-mile loops for a total of 6 miles. Each pair counted as one runner for the team. Jireh Wang (Agape Christian School) and Kaithlyn Chavez (SIS) also put forth a very strong performance, finishing in 16th place. The remaining five pairs worked cohesively to deliver a time that positioned them competitively among top regional schools. Despite fierce competition from teams like Guam and Kinnick, NMI athletes held their ground, showcasing their determination and teamwork.

The final standings of the API highlighted the depth of competition, with two DODEA schools, Guam High and Kinnick High, leading the pack. Team NMI’s final ninth place ranking among 37 schools is a testament to their hard work and preparation for this prestigious event.

The 2024 API was a historic event, and Team NMI’s performance reflected their growth and potential on an international stage. With several personal bests, solid team finishes, and the experience gained from navigating large, competitive race packs, the athletes are poised for continued success in future races. Congratulations to the entire NMI team: Victor Nash Santos (SIS),Takeru Jim (MHS), Yile Wang (ACS), Michael Miller (MHS), Yongqi Fan (ACS), Ziheng Cai (ACS), Simon Tang (SSHS), Landen Taflinger (SIS), Ruizhe Zhu (SIS), Lang Yang (ACS), Kaithlyn Chavez (SIS), Addalee Taflinger (SIS), Zhaoyu Shen (ACS), Aubrey White (SIS), Jiamei Hong (ACS), Ruishi Zhu (ACS), Julie Chavez (SIS), Catherine Pan (MHS), Jian Chun (MHS), and Panpan Zhang (ACS). (PR)