Darwin-bound NMI team runs for more than just medals

With the NMI still dealing with the aftermath of Super Typhoon Sinlaku, the national athletics team is set to compete in the 2026 Oceania Athletics Championships in Darwin, Australia, from May 18-23.

The team is made up of seasoned athletes, along with two new additions to the national squad. Multi-medal-winning national record holder Tania Tan leads the group in the 5,000m, joined by fellow national record holder Maria Quitugua. Collegiate athletes Theodore Rodgers will compete in the 200m, while Simon Tang will run the 400m hurdles. Siblings Landen and Addalee Taflinger, making their debut, will compete in the U18 and U20 events.

Only three athletes—Quitugua and the Taflingers—are currently on Saipan, with Tan, Rodgers, and Tang flying in. The group is managed by Lia Rangamar.

The team heads into the meet not just to compete, but carrying what’s happening back home with them.

On what it means to represent the NMI during this time, Rangamar said, “It’s always an honor to represent the NMI, but there’s precious meaning when we don our colors this time around. The state of our islands and community after the storm, along with news of the suspension of the search for the Mariana crew, weighs heavy on our hearts. We hope that we can represent well for our home and for our people who are hurt but enduring, despite the long road to recovery.”

“We have Tania Tan leading a great team comprised of three other senior athletes, and two athletes who will be making a first-time appearance on the regional stage,” said Rangamar. “Nevertheless, they’re all competitors with high expectations of themselves. I’m confident they’ll lay it all out there and come out doing well.”

As for how different it is to compete at a time like this, Rangamar said, “Although we’ve weathered storms before and have an idea of what the next few weeks will look like, it still takes a toll on everyone, especially with how close our competition dates are.”

With training spaces on Saipan affected by the storm, Rangamar said, “As hard of a challenge as it has become, our athletes are eager to take advantage of the opportunity to compete.”

The 2026 Oceania Athletics Championships is the top track and field meet in the Pacific, bringing together countries under Oceania Athletics, including Australia, New Zealand, and smaller island teams like the CNMI.