PR ROTA MARATHON 2026 CELEBRATES NATURE AND ISLAND HOSPITALITY ON JAN. 31
Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands (NMI) – The island of Rota, known as “Nature’s Treasure Island,” invites runners and adventure seekers from around the world to experience the breathtaking beauty and warm island hospitality of the Rota Marathon 2026, happening Jan. 31 in The Marianas.
Organized by the Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA) in collaboration with the Rota Mayor’s Office, this annual event showcases Rota’s pristine natural landscapes, rich indigenous heritage, and tight-knit community spirit. Registration will open online this month, with early bird rates available in November for those eager to secure their spot in this unforgettable island race. Participants can choose from a full marathon, half marathon, or 5K, designed for every level of runner—from seasoned athletes to first-time racers looking for a scenic challenge.
Last January, the 2nd Annual Rota Marathon nearly doubled its inaugural event, drawing close to 150 participants from the USA, South Korea, Japan, the Philippines, Guam, China, Fiji, and across The Marianas. This year promises to be even more inspiring as runners trace Rota’s coastal roads and rainforested hills, framed by turquoise lagoons, towering limestone cliffs, and the rhythmic sounds of the Pacific.
Among Rota’s many treasures are the As Nieves Latte Stone Quarry, one of the newest U.S. National Historic Landmarks and home to the largest known ancient Chamorro stone monoliths, and natural wonders such as Wedding Cake Mountain, the Swimming Hole, and I’Chenchon Bird Sanctuary, home to the rare Marianas Fruit Dove.
“Rota is a place where you can truly breathe again,” said MVA Managing Director Jamika R. Taijeron. “The Rota Marathon is more than a race—it’s a journey through some of the most pristine landscapes in the Pacific and a celebration of the island’s spirit and community. Come to Rota, run with us, and let nature restore you.”
This year’s marathon will feature an improved course design based on runner feedback. The full and half marathon routes will reverse direction, starting north along Rota’s western lagoon under the early morning stars before looping back through shaded roads to Sasanhaya Bay and the finish line in Songsong Village. The popular 5K route remains unchanged, offering sweeping sunrise views over the bay.
Rota is accessible via air—just 30 minutes from Saipan or 15 minutes from Guam—with service provided by STAR Marianas Air and Micronesian Air Connection Services.
Ready to run where nature leads the way? Visit www.mymarianas.com for registration updates and travel information.
Media & Contact Information:
- Ed Diaz, MVA Community Projects Coordinator – [email protected] | +1 (670) 664-3200
- Dave Atalig, MVA Rota Field Operations Supervisor – [email protected] | +1 (670) 532-0327
- Or visit www.mymarianas.com
FILE - Roxanne Soriano of Saipan takes in the view of Alaguan Bay at Rota Marathon 2024 in The Marianas. Rota Marathon 2026 will be held on Jan. 31, 2026, and registration will open in November 2025. For more information, visit www.mymarianas.com.
The Marianas is an archipelago of 14 islands - including Saipan, Tinian, and Rota - in the Western Pacific. The Marianas are home to indigenous Chamorro and Carolinian people, as well as over 20 different ethnicities from around the world who live and work in this harmonious tropical paradise. Ancient latte stone limestone monoliths, traditional nature-based ocean navigation not reliant on modern technology, and a culture seasoned by East and West influences are just a few of the experiences found in The Marianas, where pristine sea, sand, and skies are only a 3–4-hour flight from major Asian gateway cities. From Korea Republic, Jeju Air and T’Way provide direct flights to Saipan from Seoul-Incheon. United Airlines flies three times a week from Tokyo-Narita, Japan, and daily from Guam. Hong Kong Airlines flies twice weekly from Hong Kong, China. Interisland travel between Saipan, Tinian, and Rota is provided by Star Marianas Air. For more information on The Marianas, visit www.mymarianas.com, Facebook/VisitTheMarianas, or Instagram @themarianas.