Kapalua Declines PGA Tour Opening to Address Drought Conditions

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September 20, 2025

PGA Tour Shifts Sentry Tournament Amidst Hawaii Drought and Water Conflict

The PGA Tour announced Tuesday it is relocating its season-opening Sentry Tournament from the Kapalua Resort in Hawai’i, citing unsustainable conditions stemming from a prolonged drought and an escalating dispute over water access.the decision impacts the prestigious $20 million event, scheduled for January 8-11, 2026, and intended for all Pga tour winners in 2025 and the top 50 in the FedEx Cup.

Water Scarcity Forces Tournament Relocation

For over two decades, the Plantation course at Kapalua has been the conventional host for the tournament, with the exception of 2001 when it was briefly held in Australia. The current crisis, however, prompted PGA Tour Enterprises CEO Brian Rolapp to consult with Hawai’i Governor Josh Green, Sentry Insurance representatives, Kapalua Resort officials, and Maui County authorities before reaching the challenging decision.

The prolonged drought has impacted 140,000 residents of Maui, prompting water conservation mandates prioritizing essential community needs.The choice to move the Sentry aligns with these priorities, as acknowledged by Governor Green who stated, “Protecting our water and supporting our communities come first.”

A Dispute Over Irrigation fuels the Crisis

Underlying the drought’s impact is a legal battle concerning the maintenance of a century-old irrigation system. Tadashi Yanai,owner of Kapalua and founder of Uniqlo,along with Kapalua homeowners and Hua Momona Farms,filed a lawsuit August 18th against Maui Land & Pineapple (MLP). The suit alleges that MLP’s failure to properly maintain the ditch system has restricted water flow to the resort and surrounding areas.

The lawsuit asserts that the system’s disrepair, rather than natural causes, is the root of the water shortage. MLP has responded by stating that it has undertaken repairs as directed by the Commission on Water Resource Management, and that its actions align with existing agreements. However,tensions remain high,with both sides exchanging accusations regarding water usage and responsibility for the situation.

Economic Impact and Future Plans

Kapalua officials estimate the tournament generates a considerable $50 million in economic activity for the region. Despite this loss, Sentry Insurance, whose sponsorship extends through 2035, has expressed support for the decision, emphasizing its commitment to the Maui community. Stephanie Smith, Sentry’s chief marketing and brand officer, stated the company’s ties to Maui extend beyond the tournament itself.

The immediate future of The Sentry remains uncertain. The PGA Tour is actively exploring alternative locations and dates, acknowledging the logistical challenges of staging a major event on a remote island and the proximity of the Sony Open on Oahu.The Tour did announce the addition of Trump doral near Miami to the 2026 schedule, but a title sponsor has not yet been named.

Event	Original Location	New Status
The Sentry	Kapalua Resort, Hawai’i	Relocated due to drought and water dispute
Sony Open	Oahu, Hawai’i	Unaffected
PGA Tour Champions	Big Island, Hawai’i	Proceeding as scheduled

Did you Know? The Plantation course at Kapalua, famed for its challenging layout and stunning ocean views, was the first design collaboration between Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw.

Pro Tip: Water conservation is becoming increasingly critical for golf courses worldwide. Implementing drought-resistant grasses and efficient irrigation technologies are key strategies for long-term sustainability.

What factors will be most crucial in selecting a new location for the Sentry Tournament? And how will this situation impact the long-term relationship between the PGA Tour and the Kapalua Resort?

The Growing Challenge of Water Management in Golf

The situation at Kapalua underscores a growing global trend: the increasing strain on water resources and the need for sustainable practices in golf course management. According to the Golf Habitat Organization (GEO), golf courses represent less than 0.1% of global land area, but are often subject to scrutiny regarding thier water usage. Golf Environment Organization

Modern golf course design and maintenance are increasingly focused on minimizing water consumption through strategies such as:

• Utilizing drought-resistant turfgrass varieties
• Implementing advanced irrigation systems with precise water delivery
• Harvesting rainwater and repurposing treated wastewater
• Employing soil moisture sensors to optimize watering schedules

Frequently Asked Questions About the Sentry Tournament Relocation

What is the primary reason the Sentry Tournament is being moved?

The tournament is being relocated due to severe drought conditions in Maui and a dispute regarding the maintenance of the irrigation system that supplies water to the Kapalua Resort.

Will the Sony Open be affected by the drought?

No, the PGA Tour has stated that the drought will not affect the Sony Open, which will proceed as scheduled on Oahu.

what is Maui Land & Pineapple’s role in the water dispute?

Maui Land & Pineapple operates the irrigation system and is being accused of neglecting necessary repairs, leading to reduced water flow to the Kapalua Resort.

How long is Sentry Insurance’s sponsorship agreement with the PGA Tour?

Sentry Insurance’s sponsorship agreement extends through 2035, demonstrating their long-term commitment to the tournament and the Maui community.

Is the drought impacting other golf courses in Hawaii?

Yes, the drought is a widespread issue affecting various sectors in Hawaii, including golf courses, leading to water conservation measures and potential closures.

Share your thoughts on this developing story in the comments below!

What are the specific drought classifications currently affecting Maui as of september 2025?

The Decision & its Immediate Impact on the 2026 Tournament Schedule

in a surprising move announced today, september 20, 2025, the Kapalua Land & Growth Company has declined to host the opening event of the 2026 PGA Tour season. The primary driver behind this decision? severe and ongoing drought conditions impacting Maui, Hawaii. This marks the first time in over two decades that Kapalua will not kick off the professional golf calendar with the tournament of Champions (now the Sentry Tournament of Champions).

The decision wasn’t taken lightly. Kapalua officials cited concerns over water usage and the overall strain on local resources during a period of critical drought. The tournament, while a meaningful economic driver for Maui, requires considerable irrigation to maintain course conditions to PGA Tour standards. This water demand, even with conservation efforts, became unsustainable given the current climate situation.

Understanding the Maui drought & Water Conservation Efforts

Maui has been grappling with a prolonged drought for several years,exacerbated by climate change and reduced rainfall. the situation has reached a critical point, impacting agriculture, residents, and the island’s delicate ecosystem.

* Current Drought Status: As of september 2025,much of Maui is classified under severe to extreme drought conditions according to the U.S. Drought Monitor.

* Water Restrictions: Residents and businesses are facing increasingly strict water restrictions, including limitations on lawn watering and car washing.

* Impact on Agriculture: Local farms are struggling to maintain production, leading to concerns about food security and economic hardship for farmers.

* Groundwater Levels: Groundwater reserves, a vital source of freshwater, are at historically low levels.

The Kapalua decision directly reflects a growing awareness of responsible water management and the need to prioritize community needs during environmental crises. This isn’t simply about golf; it’s about the long-term sustainability of Maui.

The PGA Tour’s Response & Alternative Locations

The PGA Tour acknowledged Kapalua’s decision and is actively exploring alternative locations for the 2026 sentry Tournament of Champions. Several potential sites are being considered, with a focus on locations that can guarantee sufficient water resources without compromising local communities.

* Potential Host Cities: Early discussions have centered around Scottsdale, Arizona; Palm Springs, California; and potentially relocating the event to a course on the mainland.

* Logistical Challenges: Moving the tournament presents significant logistical challenges, including transportation, accommodation, and securing sponsorships.

* Economic Impact: The loss of the Kapalua event is estimated to result in a multi-million dollar economic impact for Maui, affecting hotels, restaurants, and local businesses.

* PGA Tour Sustainability Initiatives: The PGA Tour has publicly committed to increasing its sustainability efforts, including water conservation and reducing its environmental footprint. This situation will likely accelerate those initiatives.

Kapalua’s long-Term Commitment to Sustainability

Kapalua Land & Development Company has a long history of environmental stewardship on Maui.This decision to forgo the tournament is consistent with that commitment.

* Water Recycling Programs: Kapalua utilizes advanced water recycling programs to minimize its reliance on freshwater sources.

* Native Plant Restoration: ongoing efforts to restore native plant ecosystems,wich require less water then conventional landscaping.

* Community Partnerships: Collaboration with local organizations to promote water conservation and environmental education.

* Future Tournament Considerations: Kapalua officials have indicated they will reassess the situation annually and consider hosting the tournament in future years if drought conditions improve.

The Broader Implications for Golf & Water Usage

The Kapalua situation highlights a growing concern within the golf industry: the sustainability of water-intensive courses in arid and semi-arid regions.

* Desert Golf Course Design: A shift towards more drought-tolerant turfgrasses and innovative course designs that minimize water usage.

* Water-Efficient Irrigation Systems: Adoption of precision irrigation technologies that deliver water directly to plant roots,reducing waste.

* Greywater Reuse: Utilizing treated wastewater for irrigation purposes.

* Public Perception: Increased scrutiny of golf courses’ water consumption, notably during times of drought.

This event serves as a wake-up call for the golf industry to prioritize water conservation and adopt more enduring practices. The future of golf in water-stressed regions depends on it.

Case Study: The Impact of Drought on Pebble Beach (2022-2023)

While not a direct cancellation, the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am faced significant challenges due to California’s drought in 2022 and 2023. Course conditions were visibly impacted, and organizers implemented strict water conservation measures. this included using recycled water, reducing turf areas, and accepting slightly less-than-perfect course conditions. The situation demonstrated the difficulties of maintaining a high-profile golf tournament during a prolonged drought, even with substantial resources. It also highlighted the potential for negative publicity if water usage is perceived as excessive.

Practical Tips for Golfers to Conserve Water

Even individual golfers can contribute to water conservation:

1. Play on Drought-Tolerant Courses: Support courses that prioritize water conservation.
2. Avoid Water Hazards: Minimize splashing and needless water contact during play.
3. Report Leaks: Alert course management to any leaks or inefficiencies in the irrigation system.
4. Advocate for Sustainability: Encourage golf courses to adopt more sustainable practices.

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