KAILUA-KONA — Like many, Makani Golf Club director of instruction Kevin Hayashi was in awe at the raw, destructive power of the Kilauea eruption when it started back in May.
But quickly, that feeling of amazement from the lava flows turned to concern for all those who were affected, as hundreds lost their homes with no relief in sight.
His peers at Makani had the same feeling, which led general manager Jason Trim to bring up the idea of the course hosting a tournament, with 100 percent of the proceeds going to Pu‘uhonua O Puna — a charitable hub conducting various forms of outreach to those displaced and disoriented by the Kilauea eruption — and the Food Basket in Hilo.
“As we all know, everybody on this island is family and we are just taking care of our family,” Hayashi, a Hilo native, said. “For us at the Makani Golf Club, it is very important to give back. We are the locals’ golf course and we feel a sense of responsibility to do what we can to assist and try to make a difference.
“In June the club was a donation drop off for supplies,” Hayashi added. “We feel since we are centrally located between Waimea, Kona and the coast, we are the perfect location to host events like this.”
The tournament is this Sunday at Makani. The cost is $75, which includes golf, refreshments and prizes to the top finishers ($250 to first place and $100 to second place in the form of gift cards in both gross and net divisions, with valid GHIN handicap).
The shotgun start is slated for 12:30 p.m.
Anyone interested can call the Makani golf shop to register at 325-5044. Donations are also welcome anytime, from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily.
“We just want to bring awareness that this tragedy is not finished. There are still homes being destroyed and peoples lives being affected,” Hayashi said. “Please come up and participate. It will be a great day and we look forward to seeing a great turnout.”
For more information on Makani Golf Club, visit makanigolfclub.com.
