(TP) – The inaugural 2012 Guam Masters Games is taking place in just five days.

Athletes and spectators can expect a great turnout as the grappling event anticipates the attendance of many great athletes from Guam and Saipan.

Athletes are still registering and participants are training to transition into the games as the event is fast approaching. Matches will be divided into various divisions of belt levels and weight classes.

These divisions should give athletes and fans a fun and competitive event to experience. This grappling event is great for athletes in the age brackets, as it will give these grapplers a chance to exhibit their experience and skill.

According to grappling director Melchor Manibusan, “Fans will enjoy the matches since the competitions are in a combat, high-contact sport. Many will be able to appreciate and idolize, or look up to, some of the people on the mat. It will be fun watching these athletes throw down and will be pretty inspiring to watch these guys.”

Aside from grappling, the Guam Masters Games will host other sports this September, each with various age divisions.

Golf, baseball, running and grappling competitions will take place at the Leo Palace Resort. Basketball will be played at the University of Guam Field House, and tennis matches will be held at the Hilton Hotel Tennis Courts.

The 2012 Guam Masters Games is the first event of its kind on Guam, giving athletes the opportunity to build their reputation and significantly challenge themselves as they compete against regional athletes.

Athletes have one final week to register online or register at either Strike Zone locations in Hagåtña or Dededo. Checks can be made payable to Tropical Productions.

All athletes will receive free commemorative Guam Masters Games T-shirts and sports bags, along with free food, drinks and entertainment at the opening and closing ceremony. 

The opening ceremony is scheduled for Sunday, Sept. 9 at the Leo Palace foyer in the lobby at 5:30 p.m. The closing ceremony is scheduled for Sunday, Sept. 16 at the Leo Palace Ballroom at 6 p.m.

The official website for the Guam Masters Games 2012 can be found here. This website provides information on registration, sports, venues, activities, schedules, and much more.

Baseball teams and golfers are still being asked to register online or at either Strike Zone locations. Checks can be made payable to Tropical Productions.

For general information, contact Tropical Productions event manager Matt Sgro at 689-7476.