Amid uncertainties surrounding the PGA's Hawaii tournaments, the Sentry Foundation stepped up by donating $1 million to Maui nonprofits. This gesture ca...
Amid uncertainties surrounding the PGA’s Hawaii tournaments, the Sentry Foundation stepped up by donating $1 million to Maui nonprofits. This gesture came just days before the scheduled start of the 2026 season on Maui’s picturesque Valley Isle.
Supporting Maui Communities
The Sentry Foundation’s $500,000 contribution to Maui United Way will aid the Sentry Malama Na Keiki initiative. Launched post the 2023 wildfires, this program offers crucial mental health support to children and families. Additionally, $250,000 was allocated to the Maui Food Bank for food distribution and hunger alleviation efforts. Another $250,000 was earmarked for Aloha Pu‘u Kukui to preserve the native ecosystem of the Pu‘u Kukui Watershed.
Commitment to Maui
Sentry, the long-standing title sponsor of the Maui tournament, has been deeply embedded in the local community for eight years with commitments extending till 2030. Pete McPartland, Sentry’s CEO, emphasized the importance of supporting Maui’s ongoing recovery efforts and the resilience of its people. The foundation’s donations aim to address pressing needs and aid in rebuilding efforts.
PGA Tournament Disruption
Originally intended to relocate the event, the PGA faced insurmountable challenges in finding a suitable alternative course at short notice. Consequently, the 2026 tournament was canceled, leaving a significant void in Maui’s sporting calendar. The absence of the tournament is estimated to result in a substantial economic impact on the region.
Looking Ahead
While the Sentry event faced cancellation, golf enthusiasts can look forward to the upcoming Sony Open in Hawaii at the Waialae Country Club on Oahu. However, even this tournament faces uncertainty as it approaches the final year of its title sponsorship agreement.
Brian McInnis covers Hawaii’s sports scene for Spectrum News Hawaii and can be contacted at brian.mcinnis@charter.com.
Source of the article: spectrumlocalnews.com