21st edition of Turkey Trot set

Northern Marianas Athletics announced yesterday that it would be continuing its tradition of hosting a healthy start to the Thanksgiving holiday.

In a statement, the NMA confirmed that it would host the 21st Annual Mt. Tapochao Turkey Trot Fun Run on Thursday, Nov. 24.

The challenge features a 4.2-mile course beginning at the Department of Public Works beach in Lower Base and ending at the peak of Mt. Tapochao.

Five age categories will be featured for both males and females including 12-and-under, 17-and-under, open, 30-39 years, 40-49 years, and 50-and-over.

Registration begins at 5:15am at the starting point, with the race set to get underway at 6am. Adults must pay an entrance fee of $7 while youth runners will pay just $5.

Last year, a total of 63 early birds conquered strong winds, heavy rain, and a foggy path up to Mt. Tapochao.

Topping the race was veteran triathlete Russ Quinn, who reached the peak in 39.51. He was followed by Robert Jordan (39.58) and Dirk Sharer (40.42).

Capping the Top 10 were Chris Fryling (40.54), Dan Kimball (41.09), John C. Douglas (42.11), Michael Johnson (43.41), Noriko Jim (44.10), Steven Pixley (44.30), and Rennan Butch (44.41).

For her part, Jim was the first female to complete the race, while Pixley’s time was good for top honors in the men’s 50-and-up category.

For more information about the 21st Annual Mt. Tapochao Turkey Trot Fun Run, contact NMA president Kurt Barnes at 235-5853, coaches director Elias Rangamar at 664-2502, or treasurer Robin Sapong at 235-6500.