WAILUA — Mayor Derek Kawakami thanked the nearly one hundred golfers and volunteers from the Kauai Filipino Chamber of Commerce and its Foundation for the effort, Monday that would benefit Kauai’s students.
Kawakami arrived early Monday to the Wailua Golf Course to help send off the field of nearly a hundred golfers during the shotgun start.
“This is the 18th year the Filipino Chamber has hosted the event,” said Cyndi Ayonon, the Filipino Chamber’s Scholastic Committee Chair. “For the past two years, the tournament was taken over by the Foundation. This year, the goal is to raise at least $25,000 which will be used for student scholarships.”
Last year, proceeds from the golf tournament helped the Filipino Chamber award 13 scholarships to Kauai students totaling $7,500.
Fundraising was not limited to playing golf as special premiums awaited beyond the golf course during the awards luncheon at the near by Lydgate Park.
“Eddie Topenio — he was a former golf tournament chair — helps us,” said Bobby Ayonon, the Foundation’s president. “He has made his special chili pepper water that is not available anywhere except at the golf tournament. People have an opportunity to get this unique item for a minimal prize giveaway ticket purchase.”
A pair of autographed National Football League footballs were earned by Laurie Yoshida and Marites Yano
The tournament, chaired by Tito Villanueva and Angel Acorda, played to an individual medal play with men having a maximum handicap of 30, and women having a 36 maximum handicap.
“This year, our spotlight is on Cesar Portugal during the luncheon,” Cyndi said. “Cesar served as the golf tournament chair for many years before passing on. During the 18 years we have had the tournament, the Kauai Filipino Chamber of Commerce has raised more than $115,000 for deserving Kauai students.”
Started in 2001, the golf tournament has grown to become a island signature event and is the Foundation’s only fundraising for the scholarship program.
