SAIPAN — The Marianas will welcome about 100 swimmers from China’s Guangzhou Tianhe District Swimming Association for the first-ever “SWIM in The Marianas” event, scheduled for today (Dec. 2) at Crowne Plaza Resort Saipan.
The event is being organized in partnership with the Marianas Visitors Authority will begin with a 3 p.m. race briefing followed by a lagoon swim starting and finishing beachside at the resort. Organizers said the swimmers will spend five days on Saipan, with plans to visit major attractions such as Managaha and the Grotto, and to take part in cultural activities while supporting local businesses.
Hui Dong Swimming Sports Association Vice President Yang Dong Hai, representing the Guangzhou Tianhe District Swimming Association, said the group has hosted open-water swim events in multiple countries, including Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, the Philippines, Korea, and Russia, and described the association’s theme as SWIM—Saltwater Invigorating Movement.
Yang said MVA Managing Director Jamika Taijeron visited the association in May and encouraged it to consider Saipan as the host location. He said some members previously visited the Marianas for an Ironman triathlon and were impressed by the islands’ natural beauty and outdoor conditions.
Taijeron said the event is meant to celebrate international friendship and the unifying power of sports.
MVA said it is coordinating with partner organizations including the Department of Public Safety, U.S. Coast Guard Saipan Office, 500 Sails, and the Saipan Swim Club to support safety and logistics.
