For the past 17 years, golfers have come together at the Honpa Hongwanji Hawaii Betsuin Golf Tournament. On Thursday, August 8, 2013 at the Ala Wai Golf Course, 186 golfers headed out in their carts for a 3-person modified scramble. The beautiful sunny, tradewind day tested the eager golfers as they competed for team prizes such as a stay at the Royal Hawaiian Hotel, a $100 gift certificate to Alan Wong’s Restaurant, a TaylorMade driver, and a BluRay DVD player with WiFi streaming.

Adding to the fun were the cash prizes for the golfers who got the closest to the pin on the par 3s. In addition, there were door prizes, including a trip to Las Vegas. Everyone had the chance to participate in the raffle for a ProAm gift certificate, an LED TV, or an ipad mini.

As soon as the golfers arrived, they were greeted with a 20# bag of rice and a goody bag with snacks. The golfers enjoyed sandwiches and chips for lunch and a delicious buffet dinner.

The tournament proceeded smoothly thanks to 36 volunteers who generously gave their time to make sure everyone had fun and was safe. Because of the many thoughtful and beneficent donors and golfers, the tournament netted about $27,000, which will be used to support and maintain Hawaii Betsuin’s youth and educational programs. A sincere mahalo goes to the steadfast and dedicated chairperson, Melvyn Kawahara!