The Saipan Swim Club is hosting the 9th annual Escape from Mañagaha on May 5th.

This intimate and challenging swim is a 2.4 km crossing of the shipping channel between Saipan and Mañagaha. Saipan is the largest island of the United States Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, a chain of 15 tropical islands in the western Pacific Ocean about 190 km north of Guam. Mañagaha is a small islet which lies off the west coast of Saipan within its lagoon. Although it has no permanent residents, Mañagaha is popular among Saipan’s tourists as a day-trip destination due to its wide sandy beaches.

The western side of the island is lined with sandy beaches and an offshore coral reef which creates a large lagoon. The eastern shore is composed primarily of rugged rocky cliffs and a reef. Its highest point is a limestone covered mountain called Mount Tapochau at 1,560 ft (480 m).

Swimmers will meet at Smiling Cove at 5:30 am. The Sunrider will depart for Managaha promptly at 6 am from the boat dock by the boat ramp and DPS. The swim will start at 6:30 am and finishes at American Memorial Park near the play ground. Swimmers must be through the channel by 9 am. DPS will be on hand to patrol for safety purposes. Saipan Swim Club will also have one patrol boat and kayakers as support. Fins, mask, snorkel, paddles or buoys may be used.

The cost is $20 which includes the boat ride, a t-shirt and snacks. The deadline for registration is Wednesday, April 25th. After the 25th, registration will be on a space available basis and the cost increases to $25. If there is space on the boat, you may register the day of the event at Smiling Cove at the departure boat ramp between 5:30 and 5:45 am.

Registration forms for the Escape from Mañagaha may be turned in at Rob Torres’ office in Chalan Kiya or at the Kan Pacific pool during swim practices. If you want to assist as a kayaker or have questions, please call send an email to Suzy Kindle.

Copyright © 2012 by Open Water Source