Hamilton Here We Come!

The annual Labour Weekend Pinoy get together is happening this weekend. This event is aptly called "Pistang Pilipino 2011 sa Hamilton". And as usual PBA will be sending a contingent to participate in the basketball competitions. A total of 8 teams will be going, broken down to 4 in the men's open category; 2 in the legends division (40 and above); one each entry in the 19 and 13 and under divisions.

PBA's Dimond team will be hard pressed to defend their title in the mens open division. Who can forget last year's classic battle against Dimond and Wellington. As you all know this is not the same team that won the title last year. But to make things even more difficult is that they are bracketed with arguably the toughest teams in this 2 day tournament. The good news is the top team at the moment CMR/Manila Motors is expected to cruise through the eliminations stage. The other 2 teams are JR Panel and LM Money transfer.

In the Legends division, PBA is also the defending champion. This year there are 8 entries, two of which come from PBA. In the Under 19 and under 13 category, expect a lot of exciting games.

As of last count the PBA contingent will have over a hundred players/coaches/staff. Definitely an impressive number of participants for a small organization. Add to this the family and friends of the teams and surely we must be the biggest if not one of the biggest supporters of Labour Weekend. VP Conrad Galang said "Parang tradition na natin ito, we have some players that have been participating in Labour weekend games for over 15 years. We go there for the celebration and friendly competition."

This is indeed a fantastic way for our kababayans to get together and show Pinoy camaraderie in NZ. So make the trip and we will see you at the games. Safe journey to everyone travelling and we are sure Hamilton will be great host. The schedule of the games have been posted as well.