Noriko Jim shows one of her medals.
RECENTLY honored with a well-deserved spot in the CNMI Sports Hall of Fame, Noriko Jim’s journey is an illustration of how passion, dedication, and grit can pave the way to success. Thanks to her, the athletic world has gained a true inspiration!
At 52 years old, Jim remains an active runner, a feat that reflects her lifelong dedication to the sport. Her accomplishments speak volumes, including being named the NMSA Female Athlete of the Year in 2006 and holding the previous CNMI national records in 1,500m, 5,000m, and 10,000m runs.
Noriko’s success on the track is nothing short of remarkable. She has won gold medals in the 5,000m and 3K Cross Country, as well as silver in the 1,500m race at the 2006 Micronesian Games. Additionally, she claimed gold in the 5,000m at the 2005 Micronesian Athletics Championships and silver in the 1,500m.
Her dominance extends beyond the regional level, as she has conquered the Saipan Marathon’s 10K event an impressive 17 times, securing victories in both the open division/overall and age group categories. In the 2020 Saipan Marathon, she finished second in the half marathon, and in 2022, she emerged victorious in the 5K event.
When asked about the challenges she faced as a woman trying to succeed in her sport, Noriko’s humility shines through. “Nothing much,” she says with a chuckle, “I just do something usual.”
Noriko Jim
However, her perspective on the strides made toward gender equality in running and marathons is insightful. “I think that efforts are being made to promote gender equality in track and field events and marathons compared to the past,” she acknowledges.
For young girls who dream of following in her footsteps, Noriko’s advice is simple yet profound: “Set small goals at the time. I believe there is only one way to achieve your goal and your dream come true. That is to do just small steps.”
With her newfound status as a hall of fame runner, Noriko hopes to use her platform and accomplishments to uplift other women and girls pursuing athletics, especially in traditionally male-centered disciplines. “Sports have the power to transcend barriers of gender, religion and ethnicity,” she says. “Specifically, running promotes health and wellness, feels refreshing, and keeps positive thinking. Someone says I can’t run, but I know everyone can run. Don’t be afraid, just do it!”
Noriko’s vision is clear: “I’m looking forward to seeing more women jogging at the park, beach road, and future run events.”
As the sales manager at Aqua Resort Club and a devoted wife and mother to a son who also shares her passion for running, Noriko Jim is a true inspiration. Her dedication to the sport extends far beyond personal achievement; it is a call to action for women everywhere to embrace their dreams, conquer their fears, and leave a lasting legacy of empowerment.
This weekend’s Saipan Marathon will see Noriko and her son running side by side, a symbolic representation of the generational impact she hopes to have on the world of athletics and the empowerment of women through sports.