Golfing Thrills
As the Sentry Tournament of Champions prepares to celebrate its 25th anniversary on Maui, both players and fans have more to look forward to. The annual winners-only event, held at The Plantation Course at Kapalua, has boasted such champions as Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, Tiger Woods and Jordan Spieth.
Beginning Jan. 4, 2023, it will once again welcome the previous year’s winners on the PGA TOUR for a four-day, no-cut, 72-hole, stroke play competition. And according to Max Novena, Executive Director of the Sentry Tournament of Champions, there’s even more for attendees to look forward to this year.
“We have an experience that will meet and exceed the expectations of anyone who wants to experience [the tournament],” Novena says. “We are transforming the experience from being solely golf-centric to [creating] an immersive island experience that embraces lifestyle, culture, and gives back to the community in meaningful ways.”
He noted that hospitality in venues, such as the Aloha Club and The Lookout, deliver a top-notch experience that combines incredible views of professional golf and the beauty of the area, while also serving delicious local food and drinks.
The Lanai on No. 18 offers a different vantage point from which to take in the action, as it unfolds at the course’s iconic finishing hole. A special ticket provides an upgraded experience that includes access to the covered venue, restrooms, and food and beverages for purchase.
“Golf enthusiasts, businesses, friends and families are all looking for the same thing: a meaningful way to connect with each other through shared experiences and memories,” Novena says. “We try to bring that to life for all.”
THE PERFECT COURSE
Novena says The Plantation Course at Kapalua is the ideal home for the Sentry Tournament of Champions and has been embraced by golf fans and players alike.
“There are amazing viewing experiences throughout the course, providing fans endless options to watch the action unfold,” he says.
The breathtaking views begin at the first hole, which offers views down the mountain or across the Pailolo Channel to Moloka‘i. It’s also worth making the trek to holes No. 5, 6 and 7, as fans will be rewarded with up-close views of their favorite players, in addition to some of the most picturesque views of the mountains.
“The mountain views are also a favorite amongst players,” Novena notes. “During practice rounds, guys like to try to hit a ball across the canyon from No. 4 tee to No. 6 green.”
But one of the don’t-miss holes is No. 11, where both players and spectators will look out across the Honolua Bay. Known for its legendary surfing and beauty, it’s a great spot for watching not only the game but keeping an eye out for whale spouts. And the opportunity to take in such sights comes at a perfect time.
“The course showcases unmatched island beauty to fans and viewers alike, especially since much of the country is in the dead of winter during tournament week,” Novena says.
MORE TO ENJOY
For 2023, there have been several changes, beginning with increased incentives for players. The purse, which was set at $8.2 million in 2022, has now been upped to $15 million. And, in addition to including all the winners from official TOUR events in the previous calendar year, the tournament now will include the top 30 players from the FedExCup standings who qualify for the TOUR Championship. That means the Sentry Tournament of Champions is now one of 12 elevated events on the TOUR schedule, joining an elite list of events: The top 30 players who qualify for the Tour Championship earn exemptions into the Masters Tournament, PGA Championship, U.S. Open, Genesis Scottish Open and The Open Championship.
“It’s a career accomplishment [to qualify for the tournament] and the entire week is a celebration — not just for the players, but their families and friends,” Novena says. “They arrive early to enjoy the Aloha Spirit of the island, and it’s something they truly look forward to.”
He says the excitement is building as the tournament nears, and he looks forward to players, their family and friends, golf fans and tournament partners coming together for what he calls “one of the best and most fun weeks of the year.”
For tickets or more information about the 2023 Sentry Tournament
of Champions, visit SentryTournamentOfChampions.com or follow the tournament on social media (@Sentry_TOC on Twitter and Instagram; @SentryTOC on Facebook). In addition to providing an incredible experience for everyone involved, the event raises money for local community charities. Since 1999, the tournament has generated more than $8 million for local organizations on Maui.
“The experiences and funds generated by the event for nonprofits have nearly doubled in the last five years, even with the pandemic — and we see that trend continuing,” Novena says. “Being an engaged community partner is both a responsibility and a privilege that we embrace.”
The Plantation Course at Kapalua, 2000 Plantation Club Dr., Lahaina, Maui, (808) 669-8040, golfatkapalua.com.