Explore the underwater wonders of Managaha with MVA

Have you lived in the Northern Marianas “forever,” but never explored the underwater wonders of Managaha that attract tens of thousands of visitors annually?

On June 18, 2011, the Marianas Visitors Authority will provide an opportunity for residents to safely see the awe-inspiring marine world of Managaha under the watchful eyes of safety crews during the 3rd Saipan International Open Water Flipper Race Tournament.

The tournament will allow participants to circumnavigate the 1.5-km island at a leisurely pace, using masks, snorkels, flippers, and life jackets, if desired.

“While our primary target for this event is to attract more visitors, we realize that many local residents have never had the opportunity to enjoy what our visitors enjoy everyday underwater at Managaha,” said MVA Community Projects manager Martin Duenas. “The tournament is really a great opportunity to do that, especially as we will have safety personnel in the water along the course. In many places, the water is also shallow enough to stand up.”

Managaha and its surrounding waters were declared a marine conservation area by law in 2000.

Over 30 participants from Japan have already confirmed to make the three-hour flight to Saipan for the annual signature event of the MVA. The event is also sponsored by the Community Sports Center Foundation of Japan.

Ferries depart promptly at 4:45am the morning of the race, carrying participants, officials, and spectators to Managaha. The race starts at 6:30am, with an island-style breakfast and awards ceremony at 9am on the white sand beaches of Managaha.

For participants in the mood to compete, there will be several age divisions: 19-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60 and up. Those age 18 and under will be entered in the Junior Division.

The cost is $25 for Northern Marianas residents with I.D. The deadline to register with the MVA is Friday, June 17, 2011, from 4pm to 6pm during the orientation at the American Memorial Park Amphitheater on Saipan. Participants must be in good health with snorkeling or diving experience. Mask, snorkel, fins, and wetsuit or life jacket are required.

For more information or to register, contact the MVA at 1 (670) 664-3200/01 or send inquiries to Edward Diaz at ediaz@mymarianas.com or Frank Tudela at ftudela@mymarianas.com. [B][I](MVA)[/I][/B]