After a year’s hiatus, the annual Rota Blue Triathlon returns for its 23rd turn on Nov. 18, 2017, highlighting the pristine, untouched nature of the island of Rota in the Marianas.
A long-time favorite of Japanese triathletes who return year after year to compete, this year the triathlon is also seeking to attract more competitors from Guam and neighboring countries.
“We will come back to my favorite Rota with the super exciting triathlon soon,” announced Kiyokazu Onishi, president of KFC and co-creator of the Rota Blue Triathlon.
The event is jointly organized by MVA, the Rota Mayor’s Office, and Kiyokazu Fitness Club of Japan.
“Rota Blue…the name really says it all,” said Marianas Visitors Authority Managing Director Christopher A. Concepcion. “A blue ocean with phenomenal visibility at Sasanhaya Bay and blue skies over a spectacular course with lush nature and scenic views…. Rota Blue is a must for any triathlete seeking an inspiring course and a truly memorable race experience.”
The triathlon features two distances: 1) an A-type half-marathon distance, which includes a 1.5 km swim, followed by a 40 km rigorous biking course and a 10 km run (no time limit); and
2) B-type Olympic distance, which includes a 2.0 km swim, followed by a 90 km biking course and topped off with a 21 km run (8-hour time limit).
For team competitors, there will also be triathlon of the A-type distance, again with no time limit.
The pre-race briefing for all participants will be held on Nov. 17, 2017, at Rota Resort & Country Club at 6:30 p.m. Starting time for both distances is 6:30 a.m. at Rota’s East Harbor. Wetsuits are permitted, while bike helmets are required.
Registration fees are lower this year: $60 for A-type course solo competitors and $50 for each member in a team. The fee for the B- type course is $80. The entry fee includes and event t-shirt, high-quality swim cap, and an invitation to the awards banquet.
For more information or an application, visit the Events Calendar at www.mymarianas.com or contact MVA community projects specialist Ed Diaz at 664-3210 or [email protected], or contact Sandra Atalig at the MVA Rota office at 532-0327 or [email protected].