The PGA Tour has announced the cancellation of its upcoming season opener, The Sentry, which was scheduled to take place at Kapalua in Maui. This decision comes amidst severe water restrictions affecting the courses on the island. For the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic, a tournament has been scrapped, marking a significant moment for the tour.
PGA Tour Shifts Focus to Sony Open
The 2026 golf season will officially commence with the Sony Open in Honolulu, scheduled from January 15 to January 18. This marks the latest start to a PGA Tour year since the organization’s formation in 1969. The cancellation stems from logistics and water issues at Kapalua, which has hosted The Sentry event since 1999, except for one year.
Challenges at Kapalua
Kapalua’s two courses are currently closed due to ongoing drought conditions and a complex dispute over the water delivery system. The Plantation course, a staple for The Sentry, has been affected by severe restrictions that have turned the greens from vibrant greenery to yellow.
- Date of Cancellation: October 22, 2025
- Sony Open Dates: January 15-18, 2026
- First Tournament of 2026: Sony Open in Honolulu
Commentary from Key Figures
Stephanie Smith, the Chief Marketing and Brand Officer at Sentry Insurance, expressed pride in what The Sentry has represented. She emphasized the importance of maintaining the event’s prestige and stated, “I wanted Sentry to remain the jewel that it is.” The sponsorship between Sentry and the PGA Tour lasts until 2035.
The decision to cancel The Sentry followed discussions between the PGA Tour and Sentry where multiple alternative venues were considered. Ultimately, logistical hurdles including shipping deadlines and vendor support led to the conclusion that the tournament could not be held in 2026.
Future of The Sentry
With The Sentry’s future uncertain, discussions around a potential return to Kapalua in 2027 are ongoing. Factors such as resolution of water issues and ongoing lawsuits will significantly affect its status. The PGA Tour’s organization is under review, with Tiger Woods leading a committee to consider changes to the event schedule.
Impact on the PGA Tour Schedule
The cancellation of The Sentry shifts the dynamic of the PGA Tour’s calendar. It remains to be seen how this will affect Hawaii’s place in the annual schedule beyond the Sony Open. The tour’s commitment to its long-standing tradition of premier events will be tested as it adapts to ongoing challenges in various locations.
As the situation unfolds, avid golf fans and players alike will be watching closely to see if Kapalua can reclaim its place in 2027 and how the tour will navigate the upcoming season.
