Hong Kong hosts the 2006 Little League Baseball Asia-Pacific Tournament, the winners of which will advance to the Little League World Series held in Williamsport, Pennsylvania (USA) in August.

The Asia Region Group includes teams from Hong Kong, Japan, Korea, China, Taiwan and Thailand. The Pacific Region Group includes teams from Guam, Indonesia, Mariana Islands, New Zealand and the Philippines. This is the first time that eleven countries and regions have gathered together to participate in the Tournament in Hong Kong, and marks the debut of China.

The Tournament is held between 23 – 29 July at the Hong Kong Disneyland Resort on two new international-standard baseball fields that have been built especially on the grounds between the Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel and Disney’s Hollywood Hotel, with Hong Kong harbour as the backdrop.

“The Tournament promises to be a fun and memorable event for the entire family with lots of Disney-inspired touches to add an extra dash of magic!” said Bill Ernest, Executive Vice President and Managing Director of the Hong Kong Disneyland Resort.

“The Hong Kong Little League baseball community appreciates the generous support from Hong Kong Disneyland to help organise and provide the venue for this youth sports event,” said Simon Li, President of the Hong Kong Little League.

Clara Chong, Executive Director of the Hong Kong Tourism Board, said, “this international sporting event will not only reinforce our city’s position as the Events Capital of Asia, but also promote cultural exchanges among the participants. The timing of their visit couldn’t be better, as we’re celebrating 2006 Discover Hong Kong Year. I’m certain that with our diverse appeal, the young baseball stars and their families will enjoy a truly unique and total experience in Hong Kong.”