Rota Marathon early bird deadline on Oct. 31

The best early bird registration rates are available only through next Thursday, Oct. 31, for the 2nd Annual Rota Marathon in the Marianas on Jan. 18, 2025, with registration as low as $10 for the 5K course.

The Rota Marathon will again feature a full marathon, half marathon, and 5K courses on one of the most picturesque islands of the Marianas archipelago, also known as “The World’s Friendliest Island.”

“In cooperation with the Rota Mayor’s Office and the Rota community, we are again preparing for a beautiful and well-organized race on the stunning island of Luta,” said MVA managing director Christopher A. Concepcion. “Last year we had 83 runners—both local and international. Our goal is to increase that number so we can continue to share the amazing scenery, culture, and relaxing vibe of Rota around the world. Rota Marathon is not only a race—it’s an escape…a chance to connect with nature, experience an amazing community, and slow down and refresh the spirit.”

The race falls on the weekend of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a federal holiday. Early bird registration rates through Oct. 31, 2024, are $20 for the full marathon, $15 for the half marathon, and $10 for the 5K. Registration rates will increase beginning Nov. 1, 2024. Full marathon participants must be 16 years of age or older. Half marathon participants must be 14 years of age or older.

Cash prizes will be awarded to the overall Top 3 finishers, male and female. In the full marathon, prizes are $400 for first place, $300 for second place, and $200 for third place. In the half marathon, prizes are $300 for first place, $200 for second place, and $150 for third place. In the 5K, prizes are $200 for first place, $150 for second place, and $100 for third place.

“Not only does Rota Marathon offer the most scenic route in the Marianas, I say, but our hospitality as local residents is second to none!” pledged MVA Rota Field Operations acting supervisor David Atalig. “Lush, green land all around and the best beaches to sit and watch the sunset. Luta is your perfect getaway to rest and feel rejuvenated.”

Rota is 30 minutes from the capital island of Saipan by light aircraft. In addition to daily flights, charter flights are operated by Star Marianas Air to Rota from Saipan and Guam. The island also offers award-winning dive opportunities and numerous sites listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places.

The final day to register is Jan. 17, 2025. Mandatory race packet pickup will be on Jan. 17 from 5pm to 6pm at Rota Round House in Songsong, and the race briefing will be at 6pm. On Jan. 18, the full marathon will begin at 4am, half marathon will begin at 5am, and the 5K will begin at 6:30am.

The road race will begin at Rota Round House in Songsong and traverse scenic and historic sites on the island. Registration includes a limited edition Official Rota Marathon T-shirt, Rota Marathon medal, and one entry to the awards banquet to be held at 6pm on race day. Registration may be made online at www.mymarianas.com or in person at the MVA office in Saipan at 3366 Beach Road, Suite 101, Garapan or at the MVA field office in Songsong, Rota.

For more information, visit www.mymarianas.com or contact MVA Community Projects specialist Ed Diaz at communityprojects@mymarianas.com or (670) 664-3200 or MVA Rota Field Operations acting supervisor David Atalig at datalig@mymarianas.com or (670) 532-0327. (PR)