Greg Borja appointed to OAA Masters Athletes Commission
Northern Marianas Athletics technical official Greg Borja was appointed to the Oceania Athletics Association Masters Athletes Commission last week.
The commission is now made up of five members including himself—with two members from Australia, one from New Zealand, and one from Norfolk Island.
This appointment, he said, is meaningful to him as he “will have a voice for masters aged (30-90+ year old) athletes not only here in the Northern Mariana Islands, but also across Micronesia. Additionally, I would like to work with our national federation, Northern Marianas Athletics to ensure masters are given an opportunity to compete during hosted events.”
He said he is looking forward to working with commission members “to implement the strategic plan set forth by the Oceania Athletics Association, including encouraging masters-aged persons to be involved in health and wellbeing programs.”
As to what his motivations are for doing what he does in the sport and community are three things—to stay active, serve as a role model for those who want to get into sports, and help provide opportunities for others who wish to compete.
He then thanked his family for their encouragement. “I would like to thank the Northern Marianas Athletics for providing the opportunity for me to compete. Athletics is a sport that almost anyone at any age can participate in. I would also like to thank the NMA athletes and volunteers for their support and camaraderie in growing our sport.”
The 50-year-old competed in track and field while growing up in California and began participating in masters competitions in the CNMI in 2021. He competed again in the 2023 Oceania Masters Championships held on Saipan, and won gold in the 60m and long jump, and silver in the shot put.
He is also the executive director of the Northern Marianas Protection and Advocacy Systems, Inc and chairman of the CNMI Public School System Board of Education.
Northern Marianas Athletics technical official Greg Borja was appointed to the Oceania Athletics Association Masters Athletes Commission last week.
-LEIGH GASES
