TDHC to host inter-hotel league

Tinian Dynasty Hotel and Casino is planning to host the Inaugural Tinian Dynasty Invitational Basketball League in February next year.

TDHC general manager Tom Liu invited his counterparts from Saipan-based hotels last month and said that he wants to duplicate the success of the past stagings of the HANMI Cup on Saipan on Tinian.

“The games will be played every Monday night until a champion is crowned. The tournament is to promote sportsmanship, camaraderie, and friendship in the hospitality industry,” he said.

To make the teams’ travel to Tinian worthwhile, Liu said, their food, transportation, and hotel accommodations will all be shouldered by TDHC.

He said Tinian Dynasty will also offer a special room rate of $40 plus 10 percent tax to fans of teams taking part in the competition. Liu said complimentary tickets will also be provided to teams and their supporters.

HANMI Cup coordinator Lito “William” Espino said so far four teams have signified their intention of joining the Monday-only league next year—Hyatt Regency Saipan, Saipan World Resort, Fiesta Resort & Spa Saipan/SaipanGrand Hotel, and Aqua Resort Club.

He said because of the Inaugural Tinian Dynasty Invitational Basketball League, he may have to consider putting off the start of the 2009 HANMI Cup to later next year.

After Aqua Resort Club won it all in 2007, the HANMI Cup went through a rollercoaster season in its second year, which saw the combined Fiesta Resort and Spa and Saipan Grand Hotel team taking home the title, to the delight of its fans and employees.