🏃♂️🦃 2026 Mt. Tapochao Turkey Trot Run
Race to the highest peak on Saipan this Thanksgiving!
Northern Marianas Athletics invites runners to take on the annual Mt. Tapochao Turkey Trot Run on Thursday, November 26, 2026.
The traditional Thanksgiving Day race kicks off at 6:00 AM at Lower Base, with more than 100 runners expected to tackle the challenging 4.2-mile uphill course to the island’s highest peak.
Race Details
Date: Thursday, November 26, 2026
Start Time: 6:10 AM (just before sunrise)
Start Location: Lower Base
Distance: 4.2 miles
Registration: Online via Race Roster
Entry Fee: $10 for adults and $5 for runners under 18
Challenge yourself, climb to the top, and celebrate Thanksgiving with an island running tradition!
Are you ready to race to the peak? 🦃🏔️
🏆 Race Categories & Prizes
Awards will be presented to the overall top male and female finishers, as well as winners in each age group.
📸 Share Your Race Photos!
Submit your favorite race photo for a chance to win the Favorite Event Photo award!
Be sure to tag and follow @nmiathletics on social media to share your Turkey Trot experience.
Lace up, race to the peak, and capture the Thanksgiving Day memories! 🦃🏃♀️🏃♂️
Registration fees
6.75KM(4.2Miles)
-
Register for 6.75KM(4.2Miles)$10.00
including processing fee
Oct 26 - Nov 26
6.75KM(4.2Miles) 18&under
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Register for 6.75KM(4.2Miles) 18&under$5.00
including processing fees
Oct 26 - Nov 26
Race Day Tip
🏃♂️🦃 MT. TAPOCHAO TURKEY TROT — EVENT TIPS! 🦃🏃♀️
Get ready for an unforgettable climb to Saipan’s highest point this Thanksgiving weekend!
📍 Course Snapshot
Approx. 6.7K (4.2 mile)ascent toward the Mt. Tapochao summit (1,555 ft / 474 m)
Mix of rugged uphill road & loose rocky sections
Stunning 360° island views at the top — take it all in!
Expect heat, humidity, and a solid leg burner 💪
✅ Race Day Tips
Start easy on the climb — power-hike if needed
Watch your footing on the downhill
Technique on the hills, shorten your stride ,use your arms to drive you forward .
Hydrate early & often — bring your own water
Wear shoes with good grip
Enjoy the scenery — it’s one of Saipan’s best
🎒 Post-Race Essentials
Fresh shirt & dry socks
Recovery snacks + electrolytes
Sunscreen & hat
Small towel and sandals for the ride back
Don’t forget summit photos! 📸 and tag @northernmarianasathletics pls.
Let’s make it a safe, fun, and unforgettable Turkey Trot!
See you on the mountain 🏔️🇲🇵
Contact information
- Event contact
- Robin Sapong