Tournament of Champions seeking sponsors

By Cassie Dlg Fejeran
Special to the Saipan Tribune

Organizers of the 9th Annual Tournament of Champions are now soliciting for sponsors of the event, which will be held at the Lao Lao Bay golf resort on July 31 and August 1 and would be hosted by Gov. Juan N. Babauta himself.

The TOC islandwide championship tournament is targeting 260 golfers. Those interested in participating are encouraged to register now as walk-in entries may not be accepted due to the size of the tournament and the complexities involved with walk-in entries.

Funds raised from the tournament will support beautification projects within the Commonwealth. In previous years, the TOC has raised over $275,000 for the beautification of Garapan.

Proceeds raised from this year’s tournament will be used for the Garapan Special District and the target amount is $50,000. The project will help improve the drainage in Garapan, the Pedestrian Promenade, and the pathway through the American Memorial Park to the commercial port.

“TOC is working together with the community to enhance the natural beauty of our island and make it a more desirable destination for tourist. Funds from the tournament will improve the islands image for residents and visitors alike,” event organizers said.

Sponsors will be recognized in the Sponsor’s Booklet, granted a sponsor’s plaque/certificate, given free admission, recognized in the awards banquet, and given a player entry slot, among others.

The sponsorship packet levels include $5,000 and above in cash; $5,000 and above in kind; $2,500 cash; $2,500 in kind; and $1000 cash.

In a unique twist, sponsors can also make use of the 500 Club, which allows a way in which sponsors can contribute to both the TOC and the NMI crime Stoppers program. With a minimum donation of $500 or more, the funds will be split equally between both the TOC and the Crime Stoppers program.

“These are two non-profit organizations with worthy objectives to promote both a safe and more attractive visitor destination while serving the needs of residents,” organizers said.

Other sponsors of the event include Continental Airlines, Bank of Hawaii, Joeten Motors, Louis Vuttion, DFS Saipan/Guam, Pacifica Insurance, Marianas Visitors Authority, Microl Corp., and Northwest Airlines.

For interested sponsors, call Rodney Klinge at 236-2590 or Marian Aldan-Pierce at 234-6615.