GUANGZHOU TIANHE DISTRICT SWIMMING ASSO. TO "SWIM IN THE MARIANAS" THIS DECEMBER
Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands (NMI) – The Marianas will soon welcome 100 enthusiastic swimmers from China’s Guangzhou Tianhe District Swimming Association for the first-ever “SWIM in The Marianas” event on December 2, 2025.
Organized in partnership with the Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA), this special event marks the association’s debut in the islands, where participants will explore the wonders of land, sky, and sea while promoting health, friendship, and sustainability through swimming.
According to Hui Dong Swimming Sports Asso. Vice President Yang Dong Hai, representing the Guangzhou Tianhe District Swimming Association, the group has hosted large-scale open-water swim events across Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, the Philippines, Korea, and Russia, some with as many as 2,000 participants. The association’s mission is to promote wellness and camaraderie through aquatic activities, reflected in their event theme: SWIM—Saltwater Invigorating Movement.
“In May, MVA Managing Director Ms. Jamika Taijeron graciously visited our association and encouraged us to consider Saipan as the host location for this event,” said Yang during a joint press conference at the MVA office in Saipan on Friday, October 31. “Her support and vision have been instrumental in bringing this initiative to life.”
Yang shared that several members had previously visited The Marianas to participate in the Ironman triathlon and were deeply moved by the islands’ pristine natural beauty, warm hospitality, and ideal outdoor conditions.
“Inspired by their experiences, and with Ms. Taijeron’s encouragement, our association unanimously agreed to bring an initial 100 swimmers for next month’s event. If all goes well, we see great potential for future collaboration,” Yang said
Two additional swim events are already being considered for later in December. Participants will spend five days on Saipan, with plans to enjoy the island’s famous attractions—including Managaha, Grotto, and other scenic sites, while supporting local businesses and engaging in cultural activities.
“We warmly welcome our friends from the Guangzhou Tianhe District Swimming Association to our islands,” said Ms. Taijeron. “Their visit is a celebration of international friendship and the unifying power of sports. We look forward to sharing our breathtaking waters, vibrant culture, and the genuine warmth of our people with every participant.”
The MVA is coordinating closely with partner organizations including the Department of Public Safety, U.S. Coast Guard Saipan Office, 500 Sails, Saipan Swim Club, and others to ensure a safe and memorable experience for the group.
For event details or volunteer opportunities, contact MVA Community Projects Coordinator Sherman Santos at [email protected] or call (670) 664-3200.
Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA) Managing Director Jamika R. Taijeron, seated center, and Yong Doi Hai of Guangzhou Tianhe District Swimming Association, seated second right, along with representatives of their respective organizations, 500 Sails, Saipan Swim Club, and the U.S. Coast Guard Office in Saipan announce the “SWIM in The Marianas” event at a press conference on Oct. 31, 2025, at the MVA office in I Liyang, Saipan. “SWIM in The Marianas” will welcome 100 swimmers from China for a 1-kilometer swim in Saipan’s lagoon on Dec. 2, 2025.
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.