Big Island Groups Benefit from Champions Tour Event

Various charities and organizations were the beneficiaries of a total of $67,500 donated by the Mitsubishi Electric Championship at Hualalai, the Champions Tour event held every January at the Hualalai Golf Course.

A check presentation took place on Thursday. Community groups that received its share of the monetary donation were the Rotary Club of Kona, Big Island Junior Golf Association, and the Daniel R. Sayre Foundation.

“We are very pleased to announce these charitable contributions on behalf of the Champions Tour players and their families, tournament staff and our on-site operations team,” said Brian Goin, SVP of Championship Management and Chief of Operations with the Champions Tour. “These deserving non-profit groups are outstanding citizens in the community and we are proud that the Mitsubishi Electric Championship at Hualalai is able to provide contributions to help them continue their fantastic work.”

The Rotary Club of Kona received $57,500 from the tournament. Since the tournament debuted on the island in 1997, the group organized volunteer efforts that involve players, spectators, and sponsors. Over 400 volunteers get involved every year.

The remaining two organizations each were awarded $5,000.

“We have had seven successful years on the Big Island. It is an honor to host a world-class event that wouldn’t be possible without the tireless efforts of so many people, including hundreds of dedicated volunteers and others in the community,” said Kiyoshi Furukawa, president and CEO of Mitsubishi Electric US, Inc. “To have an opportunity to give back to the community in a meaningful way is something we cherish and is extremely gratifying for everyone at Mitsubishi Electric.”

Next year’s Mitsubishi Electric Championship at Hualalai is scheduled to be held Jan. 19-23. Championship rounds will be played from Jan. 21-23.