Participants, organizers, and sponsors of the 30th Tagaman Triathlon pose for a photo after the event’s press conference yesterday at Kanoa Resort. (Roselyn B. Monroyo)

The press conference for this Saturday’s 2019 Tagaman Triathlon became a trip down memory lane as the event’s pioneers looked back at the first-ever race 30 years ago.

“It was an event where everybody came out to help. Back then, there were only a few hotels on island and a few people, too, but we did not have a problem getting support from them,” said Bill Sakovich, who organized the first Tagaman with Wolf Mojica and J.M. Guerrero.

Sakovich returned to Saipan last Tuesday to witness the 30th staging of one of the oldest triathlon events in the Pacific and was reunited with Ruben Chappins and Hideya Miyazuka—the Top 2 finishers in the inaugural Tagaman

“Having the likes of Ruben and Mr. Miyazuka in Tagaman Triathlon made people come to Saipan and join the race. If they knew these two are in the race, other triathletes follow them, that’s how Tagaman drew participants and of course because of the uniqueness of this small island,” said Sakovich, who joined the two veteran triathletes in the event’s press conference yesterday at Tagaman’s main hotel sponsor Kanoa Resort.

“I remember Tagaman was my first race of the season,” said Chappins, who was 37 years old when he debuted in Saipan’s signature event. “Tagaman proved that age really does not matter when you believe anything is possible and you put your heart into it. After Tagaman, I raced in Ironman and finished in the Top 12. At my age, I was not supposed to finish in the Top 30, let alone in the Top 12, so somehow, Tagaman helped me defy the odds and get ready for a good year (1988).

“I miss this place and would you believe, just a few hours after I arrived, the first thing I did was dive into the ocean,” said Chappins, who traveled all the way from Arizona.

He did four more Tagaman after his debut and will be gunning for his sixth, but this time as a participant in the team event.

“I am 67 and haven’t been into swimming and running in the past years. I will just do the bike part,” said Chappins, who will team up with a swimmer from Hong Kong and a Saipan runner.

“No more competitive race for me, I am past that. I am here to enjoy this beautiful island. I am just glad to be back and thank the organizers for finding me and bringing me here,” Chappins said.

Miyazuka is also pleased to return for Tagaman for the nth time. Thee 55-year-old Japanese did not only participate in the race, but also bring other triathletes with him.

Asked what’s his best memory of the inaugural Tagaman, he said it was trying to catch up with Chappins and enjoying the scenery.

While Miyazuka and other old-timers will be focusing on reliving their old glory, Guam’s Manami Iijima will be concentrating on the task on hand—defend the women’s title and clinch a 3-peat.

“I hope to have a good mechanical day and get the best out of myself,” said Iijima, who will be up against pros from Japan, Korea, Hong Kong, and the Philippines.

In the men’s pro, 2016 champion and last year’s runner-up Aleksandr Dorovskikh leads the field, which also includes returnee Kaon Cho of Korea and his two compatriots, and a couple of triathletes from Hong Kong and Japan.

Overall, nearly 190 have signed up for tomorrow’s race with 129 of them going solo.

Organizers Triathlon Association of the CNMI and Marianas Visitors Authority are reminding pedestrians and motorists to take extra caution on the road and be patient, especially along the Tagaman course. Triathletes are expected to hit Beach Road, Koblerville and the San Roque and Marpi areas from 6am to 11am.

This year’s Tagaman will start and end at Kilili Beach with the swim leg covering a two-kilometer distance and bike and run legs at 60K and 15K, respectively.

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Mt. Carmel School’s Matthew Richardson, center, goes for an acrobatic shot against Saipan Southern High School’s Glen Matalog during their semis game in the CCOPSA caging yesterday at the Koblerville Gymnasium. (Roby N. Pamintuan)

Kagman High School and Mount Carmel School 1 set the stage for their title showdown in the boys division of the 2018-2019 Commonwealth Coalition of Private Schools Association Varsity Basketball League after prevailing in their respective semis matches yesterday at the Koblerville Gymnasium.

The first match of the double-header had the No. 2 seed MCS 1 strong-arming No. 3 Saipan Southern High School, 50-27, to move ahead to the finals.

The Knights took control of the game right from the get-go and clamped down on defense to held the Manta Rays to single-digit scoring in each of the four quarters for the big winning margin.

MCS 1 almost doubled the Manta Rays’ output in the opening canto, taking a 14-8 lead. Thanks to Keith Santos, who had 8 quick points, 4 of them were charities.

After being held to four field goals in the first period, Saipan Southern continued to struggle in the second and nearly did not make it to the board until Clarenz Contreras broke their silence with a jumper, just 20 seconds left in that frame.

The Mantas had limited scoring opportunities, as the Knights’ defense forced them to cough the ball up multiple times. Richardson converted those errors into points, while Chioni Dela Cruz, Matthew Ong, and Aven Evangelista also scored, as MCS 1 widened the gap at halftime, 25-12.

The Knights kept going when the game resumed with Angelo Factor, Santos, Johnson, and Richardson teaming up in handing their squad a 36-18 advantage, entering the final canto.

In the last quarter, Johnson tweaked his ankle and was forced to leave the game. Knights coach Francis San Nicolas then had Jun Tabora filling in Johnson’s shoes and the reserve forward stepped up, making 6 points to complete MCS’ steady offensive game.

Meanwhile, Kagman took the second finals seat after eliminating No. 3 Agape Christian School 1, 60-47.

After hanging on to a 19-16 lead in the first quarter, the Ayuyus heated up in the ensuing periods to oust the Torchbearers.

J.D. Magofna and Dean Blake led the Ayuyus with their 17 and 14 points, respectively, while Henry Aguon added 9, and Chris Sacdalan chipped in 7. Jonathan Xiong and Silas Xu shouldered the Torchbearers’ offense as the former netted 19 points and the latter logged 17.

The Ayuyus-Knights finale will be played today at 3:30pm at the Koblerville Gymnasium and will be followed by the girls division title match between MCS and Grace Christian Academy at 4:30pm.

First Game
MCS 1 50—Richarson 12, Santos 10, Evangelista 7, Tabora 6, Factor 5, Dela Cruz 4, Johnson 4, Ong 2.
SSHS 27—Ordona 8, Matalog 6, Perez 6, Villarin 4, Atalig 2, Deleon Guerrero 1.
Scoring by quarters: 14-8, 25-12, 36-18, 50-27.

Second Game
KHS 60—Magofna 17, Blake 14, Aguon 9, Sacdalan 7, Augustino 5, Quitano 4, Lifoifoi 2.
ACS 1 47—Xiong 19, Xu 17, Shao 5, Chen 2, Wang 2, Yang 2.
Scoring by quarters: 19-16, 35-26, 54-33, 60-47.

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The Patriots-Angels’ Tiah Camacho swings during their title game against Balas in the Natibu Sports Association Girls Fast-pitch League last Saturday at the Capital Hill Ballfield. (Roby N. Pamintuan)

The Patriots-Angels dominated Balas, 20-3, in the championship match in the Natibu Sports Association Girls Fast-pitch League last Saturday at the Capital Hill Ballfield.

With the No. 1 Patriots-Angels’ one-sided victory over the No. 2 Balas, the former put the cherry on top of their undefeated season.

The Patriots-Angels and Balas were engaged in a brief stalemate when the first inning wrapped up, 1-1, before the eventual champions opened the floodgates and drowned their foes with 19 runs in the ensuing three innings to finish the finale early.

Balas’ pitching errors and defensive lapses in the second inning gave the Patriots-Angels the foothold they needed to swing the doors open. Christy Aldan walked to first base after a hit by pitch, while Chanel Espinosa and Richelle Ramon also got free passes to first after Balas’ pitcher repeatedly missed her mark. Aldan, Espinosa, Ramon, Kiana Camacho, and Tiah Camacho went on to reach for the Patriots-Angels’ 6-1 advantage.

Balas’ defensive struggles carried over into the third inning and the Patriots-Angels capitalized to pull away further. The Patriots-Angels scored 7 more runs and silenced Balas to increase their advantage to 13-1.

Then in the fourth inning, Marika Laniyo pounded Balas when she fired off a two-run homer. Tiah Camacho later ended the game with a bang after blasting a grand slam that sent Espinosa, Sablan, and Christy Aldan home. Earlier at the top of the fourth inning, Ashley Aguon hit a two-run homer for Balas.

After the season finale, Tiah Camacho was quick to acknowledge and thank everyone that contributed to the Patriots-Angels’ banner year.

“Our first season was amazing and unforgettable,” Tiah Camacho said. “It wouldn’t have been possible without our parents, family, friends, coaches, managers, my team, and the Man up above. Playing a part in the championship really made me feel good because I could contribute for my team and show people what girls are capable of on the field.”

“Winning the championship this year has been an honor and an amazing experience,” she added. “It was really unexpected for all of us, considering the fact that a majority of [my teammates] just started playing ball this year.”

The Patriots-Angels compensated for their inexperience by investing time and effort on improving their skills, individually and as a team. Their coaches and managers also constantly reminded them of the importance of team chemistry and effective communication on the field.

Kiana Aldan agreed that their championship season would not be possible without a unified and strong work ethic.

“My teammates and I, including our coaches, practice as much as we can to correct our mistakes and learn to play better,” Kiana Aldan said. “We all believe that hard work brought us to the championship.”

The Patriots-Angels’ players and coaches huddle after beating Balas, 20-3, in the finals of the Natibu Sports Association Girls Fast-pitch League last Saturday at the Capital Hill Ballfield. (Roby N. Pamintuan)

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Mt. Carmel School 1 players and coach Francis San Nicolas, standing right, pose with their championship trophies after beating Kagman High School, 57-51, in the CCOPSA caging finals. (Roby N. Pamintuan)

Mount Carmel School 1 stunned Kagman High School, 57-51, in the championship match in the 2018-2019 Commonwealth Coalition of Private Schools Association Varsity Basketball League last Friday at the Koblerville Gymnasium.

After a close battle in the first half, the second-seeded Knights overwhelmed the No. 1 Ayuyus in the second to hoist both the All-Island and CCOPSA varsity boys championship trophies.

The Knights clung to narrow leads at the end of the first two quarters, 13-12, and 24-20, before gaining more cushion in the third canto, 42-29. Matthew Richardson generated 5 consecutive points in the pivotal third canto, while Mikel Johnson and Chioni Dela Cruz also contributed in handing the Knights a 13-point lead, going into the final canto.

The Ayuyus fell behind by a baker’s dozen, as they were held to single digit scoring and four field goals in the third period. Kagman then rallied in the fourth quarter behind Dean Blake and Henry Aguon with the former scoring 12 points and the latter adding 7 in the team’s final push. However, the Knights’ double-digit spread coupled with the timely baskets from their key players in the fourth canto were more than enough to keep their safe distance against the Ayuyus.

Richardson led the Knights’ charge with his 25 points, 12 of which came from his perfect performance from the charity stripe. He was later named All-Island and CCOPSA MVP.

“I felt humbled and honored winning those awards, but I really wanted to share them with my teammates, because all in all, it was a team effort, and I couldn’t have done it without them,” Richardson said.

Dela Cruz and Johnson also contributed to the Knights’ triumph, as the former netted 14 markers and the latter finished with 9 points. Blake accounted for over half of Kagman’s output, as he posted 27 points. The rest of the Ayuyus didn’t offer much help, as Aguon and Magofna managed to put up just 9 and 8 markers, respectively.

Johnson drew first blood in the finals with his putback. Keith Santos then swished both of his shots from the foul line, while Dela Cruz connected on his lay ups and free throws for his 6 points, and Richardson ended the quarter with an and-1 play for Mt. Carmel’s 13-12 advantage. Blake shouldered Kagman’s offense with his 8 markers.

In the second period, Blake continued to carry much of the scoring burden, adding 6 points, while J.D. Magofna was the only other player who hit the board for the Ayuyus in that meltdown.

In contrast, Richardson drew help from teammates in the second quarter to keep their squad on top and the Knights played even better in the final two periods to complete the upset and reap the fruits of the countless hours of practice they put in for this season.

“Going into the game, we knew we had a lot of doubters, so having to deal with that, and overcoming those types of obstacles felt great,” said Richardson, as they lost to the Ayuyus twice in the elimination round.

“Every time we practiced, we always worked as a team to get better each time. Richardson said. “Going through drills, as well as working on our offense and defense helped boost our confidence entering the championship.”

The league MVP thanked their coach and supporters for helping them rule the competition.

“Of course, it all starts with our coach, Coach [Francis] San Nicolas, because without him, none of this would be possible,” Richardson said. “This season was also successful because of the entire Knight family that supported us and cheered us on to victory. Mount Carmel is an amazing school and I’m so lucky to be a part of it.”

MCS 1 57—Richardson 25, Dela Cruz 14, Johnson 9, Evangelista 5, Santos 4.
KHS 51—Blake 29, Aguon 9, Magofna 8, Quitano 3, Lifoifoi 2.
Scoring by quarters: 13-12, 24-20, 42-29, 57-51.

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Japanese pro Yu Shinozaki kept his promise, as he returned for the 30th Tagaman Triathlon and ruled last Saturday’s race.

Shinozaki completed the two-kilometer swim, 60K bike, and 15K run with a blistering time of 2:48:39 to lead more than 100 finishers and clinch the men’s pro championship, which he missed last year after a bike crash.

“I made a promise to come back after I did not finish the race last year because I had a crash,” said Shinozaki.

A car hit a police motorcycle then Shinozaki while he was breezing past the intersection in Beach Road and Chalan Hagoi near the Mt. Carmel Cathedral in Chalan Kanoa. The Japanese pro was ahead of last year’s race, but had to pull out, as he was brought to the hospital to treat the cuts, bruises, and contusion on his right knee. He managed to attend the awards ceremony of the 2018 competition, but was in a wheelchair and later had to go through a series of tests in Japan to determine the extent of the damage the accident caused to him.

“I recovered very well, as I did some rehab. Today, I had a very good race. I rode the bike faster, but safer. The water was nice, I had no problems with my bike and the road, and for the run, there’s a bit of cloud, so it was not that hot,” said Shinozaki, who was the lone finisher to cap the race under the three-hour mark, as runner-up Hiroyuki Nishiuchi of Japan and Aleksandr Dorovskikh of Russia timed in at 3:04:05 and 3:04:15, respectively.

Nishiuchi was first out of the water, completing the two-lap course at Kilili Beach at 22:15, a just a little over a minute ahead of Shinozaki. However, by the time Shinozaki passed through Kilili Beach from the Airport Road on his way to the northern portion of the course (up to Banzai Cliff), he was already ahead and went on to finish the bike leg in 1:28:34—the fastest in the field.

The Ironman veteran also had the best time in the run leg—which was from Kilili Beach to the bottom part of the Gov. Eloy S. Inos Peace Park and back—after clocking in at 55:17. Shinozaki was the only triathlete to break the one-hour mark in the last leg of the race and was the division’s runaway winner, as he even had several opportunities to pose for a photo at the finish line with the next finisher checking in more than 15 minutes later.

“I was really motivated to come back after the crash last year and win this great race,” the 25-year-old said.

Meanwhile, six other pros joined the men’s field with the Philippines’ Fernando Jose Casares (3:06:34), South Korea’s Kaon Cho (3:22:06) and Soo Hwan Chun (3:24:13), the Netherland’s Van Der Flier Vasco (3:25:25), and South Korea’s Jihyuk Yang (3:37:37) and Jin Gu Ha (3:42:24) rounding out the list.

Redemption for Iijima
In the women’s division, Guam’s Manami Iijima topped her event anew to complete a three-peat.

She finished the race in 3:12:12 with split times of 23:19 (swim), 1:41:06 (bike), and 1:04:47 (run) to beat fellow Guam triathlete Laura Nadeau (3:13:18) and the Philippines’ Maria Hodges (3:26:13).

Though she dominated last Saturday’s race, the Guam pride called Tagaman her

“redemption race.”

“I raced in Ironman 70.3 Davao in the Philippines last week and had a tough race. I was throwing up in the bike leg and had mechanical issues, too. Then just into the 1K of the run leg (21.1K), I passed out and had to be brought to the ambulance,” Iijima said.

Iijima, who was among the favorites in the PH tournament, managed to complete the race, but dropped to sixth place.

“When I returned to Guam, I knew I had to recover fast to get ready for Tagaman. I had to come here and redeem myself for the not so good race I had in the Philippines,” she said.

In Tagaman, Iijima got off to a strong start, as she was six minutes ahead of Nadeau (29:39) after the swim leg and was more than four minutes faster than Hodges (27:24). The gap in the swim leg allowed Iijima to offset Nadeau’s lead in the bike portion, as the latter timed in at 1:38:39 or a little over two minutes faster than the former. Hodges submitted 1:45:44. Nadeau also had a better time in the run leg at 1:05:00, more than two minutes ahead of Iijima, who still reached the finish line first in the division after getting enough cushion in the swim leg. The Guam was a former member of a swim club on the island before switching to triathlon.

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Carol Lee, seen here playing in the 2019 Australian Open Juniors, is now ranked No. 119 in the world. (Contributed Photo)

After conquering the ITF/CAT North African Circuit, the CNMI’s Carol Lee climbed up to No. 119 in the Juniors ITF world ranking—her highest since joining the elite group in 2015.

Lee, whose previous highest ranking was at No. 163 in August last year, topped the Grade 3 tournament held in Casablanca, Morocco last month to earn 100 ranking points. She entered her second tournament in the African country ranked No. 170 and made the big leap after pulling off an upset in the finals against No.1 seed Aubane Droguet of France, 7-6 (3), 2-6, 7-6 (6).

The Commonwealth now has 345 ranking points in singles and 184 in doubles for a combined 391 points.

Meanwhile, Lee played in his last tournament in Morocco last week and made it to the quarterfinals of another Grade 3 event.

She defeated Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Milica Bojic, 2-6, 6-1, 6-3, in the first round of the Raquette D’Or J3 Mohhamedia at the clay court of the Royale Tennis Club de Mohammedia Boite Postale. Then in the second round, Lee swept France’s Maelle Leclercq, 6-3, 6-4, to move into the quarterfinals. The Commonwealth bet was pitted against another French player in the Round of 16 with Juline Fayard winning, 4-6, 6-4, 6-3.

In the doubles, Lee partnered with Nigeria’s Barakat Quadre and they lost to Morocco’s Yasmine Kabbaj and Salma Loudili in the opening round, 6-4, 5-7, 8-10.

After her competition in Morocco, Lee is heading to Europe to play in Belgium and Italy.

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From left, Kosuke Sato, Kimiko McKagan, and Tamio Nishikido, pose at the finish line after ruling the mixed relay race of last Saturday’s 30th Tagaman Triathlon. (Roselyn B. Monroyo)

Tamil Club snuck from behind to finish first overall in the relay event of last Saturday’s 30th Tagaman Triathlon.

Kosuke Sato anchored Tamio Club to victory after passing several runners on his way back to the finish line at Kilili Beach and completing the 15-kilometer course in 1:08:15—the fastest in their division and more than 11 minutes ahead of the finisher (Kaden Church) of runner-up Team JPK.

Sato teamed up with swimmer Tamio Nishikido and biker Kimiko McKagan. Nishido timed in at 34:28 in the two-kilometer swim in the waters off Kilili Beach for 10th place overall in the relay division. McKagan was up next for Tamio Club and wrapped up the 60K-bike race that brought riders to as far as Banzai Cliff up north at the Airport Road down south and back to Kilili Beach in 2:03:26. She placed at the top half of the 20 bikers entered in the relay and when she made it to the bike-run transition area, at least five runners in the team event had already made their way out to the course to head to the Gov. Eloy S. Inos Peace Park via Beach Road.

Sato, who had repeated warm-up runs while waiting for his turn to race, finally headed out to the course a few minutes after eventual champion Yu Shinozaki crossed the finish line. Then more than an hour later, Sato came, smiling, and raising both his arms in triumph.

Sato, McKagan, and Nishikido had a combined time of 3:46:19, nearly three minutes ahead of Team JPK (3:49:10). Jinju Thompson did the swim leg for the runner-up team in the mixed relay division and clocked in at 25:26—the third fastest in the relay field behind 11-year-old Isaiah Aleksenko (22:30) and TRAC 1’s Farah Master (24:44). Philip Gauang was Team JPK’s biker and submitted 2:04:08, while Church wrapped it up for the squad after posting 1:19:36.

Team Sakura (3:59:39) of swimmer Shuji Kurada (38:14), biker Andrew Estepa (2:06:05) and runner Sakiko Eda (1:15:20) rounded out the Top 3 in the mixed relay division.

In the men’s relay, Aleksenko gave MV Team, which also had biker Renato Barros and runner Vhoie Francia as members, a strong start as the former was third overall out of the water (behind two male pros). The Tsunami Saipan swimmer handed MV Team a more than 13-minute lead over eventual top finisher Team Ang Pogi before settling for third place, after Barros and Francia clocked in at 2:12:31 and 1:36:17, respectively.

Team Ang Pogi, which had swimmer Clark Boswell (35:40), biker Raymund Tolentino (2:02:06), and runner Alex Hammet (1:28:11), registered 4:05:57 to rule their division. Mark Chavez (31:09), Butch Sublemente (2:00:49), and Enrique Evangelista (1:35:17) of TAGAI-MAN 2 completed the Top 3 after recording 4:07:15.

In the women’s relay, Fuetsan Famalao’an of swimmer Pilar Shimizu (27:14) and biker/runner Jenn Camacho (2:07:59/1:38:26) came out on top after registering 4:13:19. Just The TRI of Us (Jessica Dayrit, Cheryl Sung and Anasa Lisa Salazar) and It’s Not Going To Be Pretty (Janet King and Stephanie Boutsicaris) made it to the podium, too after clocking in at 4:36:32 and 5:15:07, respectively.

Meanwhile other finishers in the relay race were APHI Team (Patholo Joab, Wilfredo Barbo, and Elena Gersonde/4:06:04); Father and Son (Yu Hun, Hee Chan, and Hee Mang Park /4:25:08); An Anchor, Two Flat Tires, and A Rocket (Anthony Raho/Jhoel Phair, and Kaylee Heath/4:25:33); Gangbuk Junior (Yongbin Yun, Insang Lee, Byungon Lee/4:30:13); Reindeers (Sarah Vander Wal, Romel Riosejo, and Joel Freeman.4:30:24); Team Hyatt (Gino Libuw, Bobby Vargas, and Dionny Peralta/4:31:15); Kraken (Chenxuan Yang, Teng Zhang, and Zehua Chen/4:36:58); TAGAI-MAN 1 (Kaithlynn Chavez, James Abuy, and Romel Bartolo/4:43:49); Agape Sword (Arthur Liang, Caleb Dai, and Simon Shan/4:51:49); TRAC 1 (Master, Ruben Chappins, and Aris Oris/5:09:52); and Kanoa (Tamery William, Roy Jagadish, and Amalia Hernandez/5:10:36).

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Saipan Swim Club co-founder Bill Sakovich heads out of the water to complete last Sunday’s Escape from Managaha. (Roselyn B. Monroyo)

CNMI Sports Hall of Famer and Saipan Swim Club co-founder Bill Sakovich joined 40 others in completing last Sunday’s 2019 Escape from Managaha.

“It was my first time to do the race. The water was a bit choppy on the way to the channel and there’s a strong wind towards the end, but other than that, it was a fun race,” said Sakovich, who missed the early editions of the 2.4-kilometer crossing from Saipan’s famous island to Micro Beach, as he had already moved to Hawaii when the event first started in 2003.

“It’s nice to see old and new faces doing ocean swims or helping out as volunteers,” he added after reuniting with former CNMI swimmers Seung Gin Lee, Colin Thompson, Jacoby Winkfield, and Kristy Springer. Lee, Winkfield, and Springer volunteered as paddlers, guiding the “escapees” during the race.

Winkfield said SSC is honored to have one of its founders (the other one was Bill’s wife, Jeanne) in last weekend’s event. Sakovich, who is in his late 70s, completed the crossing in less than an hour (57:40).

“At his age, he remains active in swimming. He continues to inspire us and motivate our swimmers. It was pretty cool to have him around here—this time as a swimmer, not an organizer,” Winkfield said.

Joining Sakovich on the first-timers list were off-island athletes that just completed the 30th Tagaman Triathlon last Saturday.

Among them was the Philippines’ Fernando Jose Casares Tan, who timed in at 33:51 to place second behind SSC swimmer Jinnosuke Suzuki (33:34). Jinnosuke’s older brother, Lennosuke, rounded out the Top 3

Other Tagaman finishers who tried out SSC’s open water swim were Kaon Cho (42:13), Jihyuk Yang (42:15), Maria Hodges (42:35), Stephanie Ng (45:41), Nestor Gonzales (48:18), Byung Geun Lee (51:21), and Jae Hong Kim (52:54).

Hodges was the second female finisher behind SSC’s Sophia Gauran and Jinju Thompson, who had similar times of 41:19), while Ng was third.

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Mt. Carmel School’s Quincy Chinen takes off for a running shot during their title game against Grace Christian Academy in the CCOPSA caging last Friday at the Koblerville Gymnasium. (Roby N. Pamintuan)

Mount Carmel School claimed its sixth consecutive championship after outclassing Grace Christian Academy, 26-18, in the girls finale of the 2018-2019 Commonwealth Coalition of Private Schools Association Varsity Basketball League last Friday at the Koblerville Gymnasium.

The Lady Knights recovered from a poor start and held the Lady Eagles scoreless in the third quarter en route to extending their reign in the division.

Mt. Carmel, which failed to light up the board in the opening quarter, employed a full court, man-to-man defense against GCA in the second canto to catch the Eagles by surprise. GCA went on to commit turnovers, while Fiona Bucalig, Franchesca Bucalig, Kalyn Diaz, Louisa Han, and Quincy Chinen cashed in on the Lady Eagles’ shaky handles and passing errors to put the Knights on top, 10-6.

After being limited to 4 points in the second canto, GCA’s offense turned from bad to worse, allowing Mt. Carmel to pull away further. The Lady Knights, on the other hand, got their acts together anew with Diaz scoring 5 points and Hyo Lim Cho, Joanie Paraiso, and Franchesca Bucalig also hitting their targets to lift Mt. Carmel to a 21-6 advantage, heading into the last quarter.

Behind by double digits, the Lady Eagles came back to life in the fourth quarter with Tina Choi and Jasmine Phan teaming up for 10 points. However, the Lady Knights would not be denied, as Chinen, Diaz, and Han also countered with timely baskets to help Mt. Carmel secure the coveted division crown.

Diaz led all scorers with her 8 points, while Franchesca Bucalig and Han chipped in with 4 apiece. Han earned the CCOPSA Championship MVP medal after showing leadership and having significant contributions to the Lady Knights’ offense and defense in the season’ finale.

“The MVP award that I received should also be awarded to every single player on my team [because] basketball is a team sport,” Han said. “Without a team and sportsmanship, we would not win championships.”

“It was a great honor to take the championship title,” the MCS captain added. “Most especially, we are very proud to continue the [championship] legacy of our AlumKnights. Our Mount Carmel Lady Knights fight extremely hard for the championship title every year, and we wanted to make those before us proud by continuing what they’ve started.”

After the game, Han acknowledged her team’s mentors and support network for the perennial success of the Lady Knights’ basketball program.

“Our success would not have been possible without our coaches—Mark and Catherine Toves—and the spiritual support from our MCS students, faculty, and family,” Han said.

MCS 1 26 —Diaz 8, Chinen 4, Fr. Bucalig 4, Han 4, Cho 2, Fi. Bucalig 2, Paraiso 2
GCA 18—Choi 6, Phan 6, Lamar 2, Saures 2, Seo.
Scoring by quarters: 0-2, 10-6, 21-6, 26-18.

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Students compete in the 1,500m qualifying race for the 2019 Public School System/McDonald’s All Schools Track and Field Championships last Saturday at the Oleai Sports Complex. (Roselyn B. Monroyo)

Northern Marianas Athletics held qualifiers for 10 more events in the 2019 Public School System/McDonald’s All Schools Track and Field Championships last Saturday at the Oleai Sports Complex.

The qualifiers are for middle and high school divisions in the U13, U15, and U18 age groups. Students from Chacha Oceanview Middle School, Saipan Community School, Saipan International School, Agape Christian School, Francisco Mendiola Sablan Middle School, Hopwood Middle School, Dandan Middle School, Tanapag Middle School, Mt. Carmel School, Marianas High School, Kagman High School, and Saipan Southern High School joined the qualifiers.

Students raced in the 100m and 300m hurdles, 100m, 1,500m, 400m, 200m, 3,00m, 4x100m relay, and 4x400m relay events.

Meanwhile, NMA was on Tinian last Thursday for the island’s qualifier. Tinian is given two slots in the sprints and middle distance races and throwing and jumping events with the winners in the qualifiers joining Saipan and Rota students in the championship.

The final round will be held on May 3 and 4 for the elementary division (U7, U9, and U11 age groups) and May 10 and 11 for middle and high school categories.

Rota will have its qualifier this Thursday, while Saipan will resume its trials next week.

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TanHoldings Football Club and Paire FC players battle for possession during their girls U16 division game in the 2019 NMIFA Spring Youth League last Saturday at the NMI Soccer Training Center in Koblerville. (Roselyn B. Monroyo)

Southern United Football Club dislodged Kanoa Football Club from the No. 1 spot in the girls U16 division of the 2019 NMIFA Spring Youth League after cruising to a 4-0 victory in their duel last Saturday at the NMI Soccer Training Center.

Southern United capitalized on the absence of Kanoa’s key players (competing in Hong Kong for the CNMI Girls U17 National Team) to take the shutout win and the grab the lead in the division. Kanoa absorbed its first loss of the season and dropped to second spot in the team standings.

Keisha Deleon Guerrero delivered all four goals for Southern United, making her first in the 13th minute and the last three in the 30th, 55th, and 75th.

In other results, TanHoldings got victory No. 2 out of five matches after downing the winless Paire, 4-1.

Stephanie Flores scored a pair for TanHoldings, while Kaithlyn Chavez and Maria Joy Aniana added one each. Erin Frink hit the lone goal for Paire. Chavez opened the scoring for TanHoldings with her shot in the ninth minute, while Aniana hit the board two minutes later. Frink moved Paire within one with her conversion in the 15th minute, but Flores gave TanHolding more cushion after finding her target in the 32nd minute. Flores eventually closed out for her team after getting her second goal in the 39th minute, while Paire failed to counter.

Meanwhile, the MP United and Matansa game last weekend ended in a scoreless draw, keeping the opposing squads at the bottom half of the team standings.

GIRLS U19 DIVISION
Kanoa 12, Southern United 1
Kanoa remained on top of the division after another lopsided victory over Southern United last Friday at the TSL Sports Complex.

Kanoa hardly missed two of its starters (competing in the same Hong Kong tournament) in the weekend match, as Paulynn Joyce was there to lead the team’s offense for their fourth win in as many games. Joyce scored six goals, earning a hat trick early in the first half. Ruschell Valino also had a hat trick—one goal in the first half and two in the final—while Sue Anne Huevos chipped in two, and Princess Alcantara made one.

TanHoldings 2, Matansa 0
In the other futsal game, TanHoldings blanked Matansa.

Aniana nailed the pair of goals for TanHoldings, drilling her first in the 22nd minute and the second in the 47th. TanHoldings got its first victory in four games, while Matansa has yet to win this season.

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Ping Norita hits a grand slam in the fifth inning to power the Falcons to a come-from-behind 14-13 win over the Blue Jays in the title match in the Natibu Sports Association Boys Slow-pitch Softball League last Saturday at the Capital Hill Ballfield. (Roby N. Pamintuan)

The Falcons pulled off a come-from-behind victory over the Blue Jays, 14-13, in the title match in the Natibu Sports Association Boys Slow-pitch Softball League last Saturday at the Capital Hill Ballfield.

Down by 7 after four and a half innings, 4-11, the Falcons mounted a furious comeback, scoring 10 runs at the bottom of the fifth inning to seize the upper hand, 14-13. After overtaking the Blue Jays, the Falcons leaned on their defense in the last two innings to cling to the shaky lead and win the championship.

Left fielder Ping Norita anchored the Falcons’ rally in the pivotal fifth inning, as he unloaded a grand slam that brought Angel Iguel, Aven Evangelista, and Awang Tudela home. Earlier, Dung Maratita also homered and brought with him Kobe Lifoifoi, while Baby Riungel, Nosh Nakamura, and Tonchu Norita also reached to put the Falcons on top.

The Falcons hung on to the one-run lead after six complete innings, as their defense forced the Blue Jays to 1-2-3 at the top. Then at the top of the last inning, with two outs and runners on first and second base, Yaguel caught a fly ball from Lang Camacho at centerfield to end the finals in favor of the top-ranked Falcons.

Before the Falcons mounted a comeback, the Blue Jays boosted their bid for an upset after starting the finale with seven runs at the top of the first inning and added four more in the fourth to take control of the game. Camacho hit a grand slam in the first inning, while Trevon Lieto fired off a homer that sent two of his teammates home in the third to give the Falcons a scare.

However, the Blue Jays’ efforts went for naught, as the Falcons got their acts together in the fifth inning and delivered at crunch time.

“It was a really great feeling [to win the championship], especially coming back from a 7-point deficit with 2 innings left,” Falcons captain Aven Evangelista said. “I’m very proud of my teammates for not giving up, and we just continued to play our game. I just had to do my part, and I know my teammates had my back. Overall it was just [good] teamwork and that’s how we won the championship.”

Since several of the Falcons players have been playing in softball and baseball leagues since childhood, they knew they are capable of digging themselves out of a big hole.

“We’ve been playing together as a team ever since we were little,” Evangelista said. “We have so much chemistry together, so it was nothing new to us. All we had to do to win the championship was play hard and have fun!”

Norita echoed Evangelista’s sentiments, saying that their relationship goes deeper than being mere teammates.

“I feel so good to be a part of the Falcons. They have always been my team. The Falcons are my family,” Norita said.

“I would like to thank my manager throughout the years, Manny Evangelista, and to my teammate Aven Evangelista for being a good captain for the team. I’d also like to thank all the fans that came out to support us,” he added.

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Tsunami Saipan swimmers pose for a photo during a break in their training session at the Pacific Islands Club Saipan. The 10 swimmers are in Palau to compete in the Inaugural Micronesian Swimming Championships. (Contributed Photo)

Swimming Center Tsunami Saipan will have 10 members competing in the Inaugural Micronesian Swimming Championships in Palau.

Tsunami Saipan head coach Hiro Kimura said Nelson Batallones, Joseph Zhang, Juhn Tenorio, Aika Watanabe, Isaiah Aleksenko, Hans Xu, Kean Pajarillaga, Ashley Dangol, and Shoko Litulumar will be participating in the April 4 to 7 event that will be held at the National Swimming Pool in Koror. The team left for Palau yesterday for the four-day meet that will also feature swimmers from Palau, Guam, and the Federated States of Micronesia.

The 10 Tsunami Saipan swimmers have been training at the Pacific Islands Club Saipan since early this year to prepare for the tournament in Palau and Kimura has set high expectations for the club’s members.

“They have to swim for gold. The future division swimmers must aim to get gold medals in all their events,” said Kimura, who was talking of Aleksenko, Xu, Pajarillaga, Dangol, and Litulumar.

The five other members (stars division) are pressed to get at least one gold medal or rule their favorite event.

In the Micronesian Swimming Championships, the stars division is for swimmers in the 13 and over age group, while the futures pool is for 12 and under. Preliminary and finals races will be held during the competition and the Top 3 finishers in each event will receive medals.

Day 1 of the inaugural tournament will have the 4x100m mixed freestyle relay, 800m freestyle, 100m individual medley, 50m backstroke, 100m breaststroke, 200m butterfly, 100m freestyle, and 4x50m mixed medley relay. For the second day, swimmers will race in the 4x100m mixed medley relay, 400m freestyle, 50m breaststroke, 200m backstroke, 10m butterfly, 400m IM, and 200m freestyle. On Day 3, participants will compete in the 4x50m mixed freestyle relay, 1,500m freestyle, 50m butterfly, 200m breaststroke, 100m backstroke, 200m IM, 50m freestyle, and the pineapple relay (8x25m free for all), while the open water swim (5K and 1K) is set in the final day.

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Kanoa Football Club-1’s Rigel Devey kicks the ball during the second half of their co-ed U12A division game in the 2019 NMIFA Spring Youth League last Saturday at the NMI Soccer Training Center in Koblerville. (Roselyn B. Monroyo)

Kanoa Football Club crushed Shirley’s FC, while MP United FC got back at TanHoldings FC in the co-ed U12A division games in the 2019 NMIFA Spring Youth League last Saturday at the NMI Soccer Training Center.

Kanoa eased its way to a 9-1 triumph over the winless Shirley’s to remain undefeated after five matches in the three-round robin competition.

Paul Lizama jumpstarted Kanoa’s juggernaut after drilling three consecutive goals in the first half. He scored in the third, ninth, and 16th minute, while Isaiah Chargualaf and Taehun Han’s conversion in the 21st and 23rd, respectively, handed Kanoa a 5-1 halftime lead. Shirley’s drew its lone goal in the match from Jayvin Bisek, who hit the board in the 12th minute, while Kanoa was not done yet despite dominating the first half after delivering four more goals in the second. Tyler Omelau contributed a pair, while Han and Izeah Jolo chipped in one each.

In the other game in the division, MP United outclassed TanHoldings, 3-1, to avenge its first round loss (3-5).

Three different players scored for MP United with Moshe Sikkel finding his target in the eighth minute and Kelly McCallion and William Sosa doing the same in the 17th and 45th, respectively. TanHoldings averted a shutout loss after getting a goal from Morico Claridades in the 58th minute.

BOYS U15 DIVISION
TanHoldings 6, Shirley’s 3
TanHoldings moved up to third place in the team standings after downing Shirley’s in the curtain-raiser.

It was a come-from-behind win for TanHoldings, as Shirley’s was on top at the break, 3-1. Rakib Hassan made a pair for Shirley’s, while Gabriel Arkoh nailed the other goal for the squad in the first half before it collapsed in the second.

Mark Joseph Roque tallied TanHoldings’ only goal in the first half and added one more in the second, while four of his teammates also did their share in the comeback. Lowell Manalang, Kohtaro Goto, Oliver Fajardo, and Mark Joshua Roque scored in the 37th, 41st, 46th, and 52nd minute, respectively.

Matansa 12, Kanoa-2 1
Matansa made it to the win column after routing Kanoa-2.
Jose Rafael Lopez and Xun Wen Jin teamed up in Matansa’s demolition of the hapless Kanoa-2 after firing four goals apiece. Maui Johnson, Alex and Philip Megino, and Chan Yang Woo registered one goal apiece for the winning squad., while Allen Choi handed Kanoa-2 its only goal in the lopsided match.

Kanoa-1 3, MP United 1
Kanoa won the battle of the Top 2 teams and kept its perfect record in the division after prevailing against MP United.

Jaydee Jose powered Kanoa-1 to its fifth win in as many games after scoring in the 48th and 58th minute. Earlier in the 14th minute, Andrew Sablan found the back of the net to put Kanoa on top at the break, while Richard Steele broke MPU’s silence with his shot in the 40th.

BOYS U18 DIVISION
Kanoa 3, U15 NT 1
Kanoa also triumphed in the second boys U18 match last Friday.

Andruw Omelau earned two goals to lift Kanoa to victory over the CNMI U15 Boys National Team. Sebastian Manabat posted the other goal for Kanoa, which got its first win of the season.

The CNMI U15 Boys National Team’s only goal in the game was courtesy of Jim Maniago and the squad is still winless this season.

Matansa 4, TanHoldings 1
Matansa climbed to second place in the standings after defeating erstwhile leader TanHoldings.

Romel Mendoza gained two goals, while Jether Yobech and Raffy Lee chipped in one apiece for Matansa’s third victory.

TanHoldings was stuck to two wins and dropped to third spot, as only Mark Esalan scored last weekend.

MP United Football Club’s Kelly McCallion, right, is closely guarded by a TanHoldings FC player during their co-ed U12A division game in the 2019 NMIFA Spring Youth League last Saturday at the NMI Soccer Training Center in Koblerville. (Roselyn B. Monroyo)

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Saipan Swim Club co-founder Bill Sakovich, second left back row, joins SSC swimmers and coaches for a group photo at the departure area of the Francisco C. Ada/Saipan International Airport yesterday before they leave for Palau to compete in the Inaugural Micronesian Swimming Championships. (Contributed Photo)

Eight Saipan Swim Club members left Saipan yesterday to race in the Inaugural Micronesian Swimming Championships in Palau.

Brothers Jinnosuke and Lennosuke Suzuki, sisters Jinju and Jinie Thompson, Taiyo Akimaru, Sophia Gauran, Savita Sikkel, and David Boyer will be competing in their first swimming tournament since the closure of the Kan Pacific Swimming Pool in Marpi in October last year. Joining the group are coach Jacoby Winkfield, assistant coach Sarah Vander Wal, and SSC co-founder Bill Sakovich, who will be a guest of honor in the regional event that will kick off today and run until April 7.

Winkfield said the competition in Palau will serve as a warmup for SSC swimmers who will also race in the 2019 Pacific Games in Samoa and the World Championships in Korea this summer.

“The goal in the meet is to get a feeling for the pool again. SSC has not swum in a pool in five months and while swimming is swimming, swimming in the pool and ocean are different. Several of our swimmers may be participating in Pacific Games and World Championships this summer and the opportunity to get pool time is important. In addition to racing, it is always great to catch up with the fellow swimmers in our region,” said Winkfield.

In Palau, more than 40 swimmers from the host island, CNMI (including Tsunami Saipan members), Marshall Islands, and Pohnpei will be competing in the four-day event.

Winkfield added that the off-island tournament will help boost the morale of their swimmers, which are definitely affected by the Marpi pool shutdown.

“Much like Yutu (Super Typhoon Yutu that hit Saipan and Tinian late last year), initially the trauma had us running on adrenaline. Now, we are trying to make the reality functional, so we can move on and improve. The most difficult part of dealing with the pool closure is not physical, but the psychological. Moral is low, making events like this important so the swimmers don’t loose motivation. That has been the most difficult aspect for the coaches,” Winkfield said.

Despite these challenges, the SSC coach is happy and proud that their swimmers are staying in the program.

“In spite of the difficult year the swimmers have had, they have persevered and continued to work. Keep up the hard work guys, you are the reason that the club will last another 45 years,” Winkfield said.

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Grace Christian Academy’s Ryan Daproza slips past Saipan Community School defenders for an open layup during their opening game in the middle school division of the CCOPSA caging yesterday at the GCA court in Navy Hill. (Roby N. Pamintuan)

Grace Christian Academy and Agape Christian School triumphed in their season debuts in the 2018-2019 Commonwealth Coalition of Private Schools Association Middle School Basketball League yesterday.

The Eagles routed Saipan Community School, 40-20, at their home court in Navy Hill, while host Agape also crushed Saipan International School, 70-20.

GCA led right from the get-go and broke away in the third quarter to double-up the Tsunamis.

Ahead by only 6 at the break, 14-8, the Eagles exploded for 18 points in the penultimate frame to open a 32-11 advantage. GCA pulled away behind Ryan Daproza and Lance Lerio’s hot hands, as they logged 8 and 6 markers, respectively. The Eagles also turned it up on the defensive end, as they contained the Tsunamis to just one field goal.

The Eagles went on to keep their double-digit spread in the fourth quarter despite resting their starters in that period. SCS made up for its 3-point output in the third frame by getting all its 9 markers from Charlie McDonald.

Earlier in the first canto, Daproza scored 7 points, while his fellow team captain, Lerio, knocked in two free throws in GCA’s 9-3 advantage. Miles Borja nailed SCS’ lone basket in the opening canto and his triple was countered by Daproza’s conversion from beyond the arc.

Daproza was then silent in the second period, leaving Lerio to shoulder the Eagles’ offense, as the latter scored all of GCA’s 5 points. Borja and Miles Timmons combined for the 5 markers of SCS, as the Tsunamis still found themselves behind at the break and fell on an even deeper hole when the game resumed, allowing GCA to walk away with a 20-point winning margin.

Meanwhile, Agape was also off to a strong start as proven in their lopsided victory over SIS.

Four Agape players finished in double figures with Eason Tang and Jordan Miao scoring 14 apiece and David Zheng and Antonio Li adding 12 and 11 markers, respectively. Danny Lee led the way for the Geckos with his 10 points.

Good debut for NMIS
Northern Marianas International School competes in the private school league for the first time and started on the right foot after defeating Seventh Day Adventist School, 22-16, at the latter’s court in Chalan Kiya.

Eddie Valdoz led the way for the Phoenix after firing 14 points, while J.P. Pineda added 4 markers. Kaito Rechucher top-scored for SDA with his 6 points.

Games in the middle school division will continue today with Agape hosting a double-header (boys and girls) against GCA. Over at the Koblerville Gymnasium, Mt. Carmel School’s girls and boys squads will be locking horns with SDA. Then at the SIS court in As Lito, the Geckos will be taking on the Phoenix.

GCA 40—Daproza 15, Lerio 13, Alepuyo 4, Castro 2, Ja. Du 2, Ju. Du 2, Yumul 2.
SCS 20—McDonald 12, Borja 6, Timmons 2.
Scoring by quarters: 9-3, 14-8, 32-11, 40-20.

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The 30th Tagaman Triathlon last Saturday featured 181 participants from 12 countries—a 30 percent increase in participants from 2018.

Finishers were led by Yu Shinozaki (2:48:39) of Japan, followed by Hiroyuki Nishiuchi of Japan (3:04:06) and Aleksandr Dorovskikh (3:04:15) of Russia. Guam pro Manami Iijima (3:12:12) led the female category, followed by Laura Nadeau (3:13:18), also from Guam, and Maria Hodges (3:26:13) of the Philippines. Leading the mixed team relay (3:36:19) were swimmer Tamio Nishikido, biker Kimiko Mckagan, and runner Kosuke Sato.

Participating athletes from Korea, Russia, Japan, Hong Kong, Guam, the Philippines, USA, Spain, Cambodia, Netherlands, and The Marianas took to the challenge with picture perfect weather conditions for the swim, bike, run event organized by the Triathlon Association of the CNMI under the Marianas Visitors Authority.

“This year’s 30th Annual Tagaman triathlon was a testament to the enduring appeal of this event,” said Marianas Visitors Authority managing director Christopher A. Concepcion. “It was great to see many previous competitors, organizers, and volunteers return to support this year’s anniversary, not to mention the many new participants, and we’re looking forward to the continued revival of this great race.”

The race began at 6am with a 2-kilometer swim leg in the western lagoon of Saipan from the official start line at Kilili Beach Park in Susupe. This was followed by a 60K bike ride along Saipan’s western course south to the Francisco C. Ada/Saipan International Airport, followed by a picturesque ride through the scenic sites of the Marpi region of Saipan. The 15K run followed a lagoon-hugging course along Beach Road to American Memorial Park and back to the finish line in Susupe.

The Tagaman Triathlon is an annual signature event of the MVA, jointly organized with TRAC and aimed at attracting visiting athletes and media coverage for The Marianas

“Glad to see the seed that was planted by J.M. Guerrero, Bill Sakovich, and Wolf Mojica continues to flourish,” said TRAC president Ricky Castro. “It’s a surreal feeling to witness former and new champions with a 30-year gap between them standing side by side on this rare occasion!”

Meanwhile, the 30th Tagaman Triahtlon was supported by platinum sponsors Kanoa Resort Saipan, the official hotel of Tagaman Triathlon, and IT&E. Gold sponsors were DFS/T Galleria, Tan Holdings, JC Tenorio Ent., Hyatt Regency Saipan, Brabu Pharmacy Wellness Center, MARPAC, Marianas Variety, Neo Timing System and KFC Triathlon. Silver sponsors were PDI, Triple J Enterprises, Powerade, and Tri-Tour. Bronze sponsors were Saipan Ice & Water, Bridge Capital LLC, Fiesta Resort Saipan, Marianas Medical Center, Saipan Shipping Company, J.E.T. Holding Company, Let’s Go Tour, Saeko, Eland, Let’s Go Tour and Island Apparel. Event supporters included the Dept. of Public Safety (DPS), Dept. of Fire and Emergency Medical Services, Dept. of Public Works (Road and Grounds), DPS Boating and Traffic, Div. of Parks and Grounds, Saipan Mayor’s Office, Marianas Health Services, Mount Carmel School, My Wave Club, and Hawaiian Rock Products. (PR)

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Tagaman Triathlon co-founder Bill Sakovich, sixth left, gestures during the awards presentation for the pioneers and participants of the race last Saturday at Kanoa Resort. (Roselyn B. Monroyo)

As Tagaman Triathlon celebrated its 30th anniversary last Saturday, it was just fitting that the people behind one of the longest-running triathlon events in the Pacific were recognized.

Tagaman co-founders Bill Sakovich, J.M. Guerrero, Wolf Mojica, and Pacific Development, Inc.’s Yoichi Matsumura made the honor roll with the former receiving a plaque of recognition from 30th Tagaman Triathlon organizer Triathlon Association in the CNMI. Mojica and Matsumura are now based in Hawaii and Japan, respectively, and could not make it to the awards presentation at Kanoa Resort, while TRAC president Ricky Castro personally handed the plaque to Guerrero at the latter’s residence in Finasisu.

“After starting Tagaman three decades ago, we’re happy that it’s still here. We hope that Tagaman will continue and more people will compete here,” said Sakovich, who with Guerrero and Mojica created Tagaman to bring in off-island athletes and help boost the CNMI’s tourism.

Among the athletes lured by Tagaman in the early years were inaugural (1988) champion and three-time winner Ruben Chappins of the U.S., another three-time champ, Hideya Miyazuka of Japan, South Korea’s Yu Hun Park, and Saipan’s very own Tyce Mister.

All four raced in last weekend’s Tagaman with Chappins doing the 60-kilometer bike leg for TRAC 1 and clocking in at 3:14:41. Miyazuka did the solo and was the first finisher (3:40:18) in the 55 to 59 age group. Park, who was responsible for bringing in South Korean triathletes for Tagaman for more than a decade, this time was with his sons Hee Chan and Mang and they completed the relay in 4:25:08.

Mister missed the podium in the 50 to 54 age group, as he finished fifth in his division with a time of 4:08:03, however, he earned the distinction of having the most Tagaman appearances in three decades.

“I think I did more than 25 of the 30. The only times that I did not compete was when I was injured. It’s great to be part of this race for a long time,” Mister said.

Braxton, Sendin lead Saipan finishers
Meanwhile, race organizers also recognized the top Saipan finishers in last weekend’s event.

Charlie Sendin broke the four-hour mark with his 3:56:14 to rank first among Saipan triathletes. He posted 35:40, 1:54:04, and 1:25:48 in the swim, bike, and run legs, respectively, to place fourth in the 30 to 34 age group and No. 31 overall among the 110 solo finishers.

In the women’s division, Ayano Braxton was the top Saipan finisher after making it to Kilili Beach in 4:14:17 (split times of 40:19, 2:07:45, and 1:27:13). Braxton also came in at third place in the 40 to 44 age group and No. 43 overall.

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A Vivid Blue player, second left, steps into the play to gain possession during their game against MP United Football Club in the Pacific Ocean Cup XI last Sunday at the NMI Soccer Training Centre in Koblerville. (Contributed Photo)

Vivid Blue made it two in a row after topping the Pacific Ocean Cup XI held last Sunday at the NMI Soccer Training Centre in Koblerville.

The visiting Japanese football club, which ruled the Pacific Ocean Cup X it hosted in September last year, had a repeat following a 2-1 victory in the finals over TanHoldings Football Club. Hosts MP United FC A and B were the two other teams that joined the biannual competition.

Renjyu Shima and Tsubasa Yamada scored the goals for Vivid Blue in the championship game, while TanHoldings’ drew its lone goal from Anthony Bergancia. Vivid Blue and TanHoldings fought in the finals after emerging as the Top 2 finishers in the round-robin elimination.

The eventual champions earned a 3-0-0 win-draw-loss record in the elimination round, as it first downed TanHoldings, 2-1, and then defeated MP United B, 1-0, and MP United A, 2-1. Against TanHoldings, Yuto Handa knocked in the pair of goals for Vivid Blue and he also drilled the squad’s lone shot in their close win over MP United B. Handa bagged his fourth goal in the tournament after scoring against MP United A and Vivid Blue went on to complete a sweep in the elimination after getting an own goal.

In other matches, TanHoldings also downed MP United A and B, to join Vivid Blue in the finals. Mark Joseph Roque’s goal in the third minute lifted TanHoldings to victory over MP United A, while he single-handed demolished MP United B after firing six goals in their 7-0 rout of the hosts. Bergancia delivered the other goal for TanHoldings, which eventually settled for the runner-up honors after being outgunned by Vivid Blue.

Vivid Blue’s triumph in Pacific Ocean Cup XI was the club’s third in the biannual tournament and first on Saipan soil to match MP United’s record. The Japanese group’s first victory in the competition it alternately hosts with sister club MP United, was in 2014 during the Pacific Ocean Cup III held in Japan. MP United, on the other hand, ruled Pacific Ocean Cup II, IV and, VII. Nagaoka SSS won the inaugural tournament, while other champions were Pure FC (Pacific Ocean Cup VI), Harasato (Pacific Ocean Cup VIII), and TanHoldings FC (Pacific Ocean Cup IX).

Meanwhile, MP United would like to thank major sponsors Tan Siu Lin Foundation and IT&E for their support. The club also acknowledged Chong’s Corp, I Love Saipan, Blue Haus, APEX Remittance, Shirley’s Coffee Shop, RNV Construction, Barney’s Pizza, Saipan International School, Sparks Athletics, Saipan Ice and Water, and Marianas Visiting Nurses for backing up Pacific Ocean Cup XI.

“It’s hard to believe this is our 11th Pacific Ocean Cup. Our relationship with Sachiko Tahara and Vivid Blue Soccer School has been a warm and endearing one and many of our youth players have been able to travel to Japan, meet new friends and experience both international soccer and cultural exchange. We are fortunate to give our U12 and some younger players additional annual opportunities for this friendly soccer competition,” MP United president Vickie Izuka said.

“We applaud Vivid Blue for clinching the championship this season since it is their first POC win on Saipan. They rode off the tail of their first win at their hometown of Numazu too last September. Although our MPU teams did not win the Cup, the matches were all very exciting with some games that could have gone either way. We also thank TanHoldings Football Club for joining our tournament. A big thank you too to NMIFA (Northern Mariana Islands Football Association) for allowing us to play on the beautiful pitch. We are very excited to mention that we are now planning for our visit to Japan this year for POC XII,” the MPU head added.

Vivid Blue players and coaches pose for a photo after their title win over TanHoldings Football Club, 2-1, in the Pacific Ocean Cup XI held last Sunday at the NMI Soccer Training Centre in Koblerville. (Contributed Photo)

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