The PGA Tour cancels The Sentry 2026 due to ongoing drought and water shortages in Kapalua and begins the new season in Hawaii with the Sony Open.
The Sentry Tournament of Champions, a long-standing event on the PGA Tour calendar held at the Kapalua Resort, will not take place in 2026. The decision comes amid severe drought conditions on Maui, significant irrigation restrictions, and numerous logistical challenges, making it impossible to host the tournament. Since 1999, the PGA Tour season traditionally kicked off on this course known for spectacular drives and breathtaking Pacific views.
Water Cut Off – Course Conditions Unsuitable for PGA Tour
By August 2025, it became clear the Plantation Course was facing serious issues; water supply was almost entirely cut off, forcing the closure of both Kapalua courses. Even after some easing of restrictions, water levels remained too low to restore the course to its usual standards. PGA Tour agronomy teams inspected the situation and concluded that hosting a tournament under these conditions was not feasible. Although alternative venues were considered, transportation, infrastructure, and scheduling challenges made replacement impractical.
Outlook for the Season Opener
The return of The Sentry in 2027 remains uncertain as the PGA Tour works on a new schedule. Ideas include shifting the season start to February for better focus and less conflict with the NFL season. Tiger Woods leads a commission exploring proposals for a modernized structure, though no decisions have been finalized. In the meantime, the Sony Open at Waialae Country Club in Honolulu will take over as the opening tournament starting January 15, 2026. This represents more than a minor calendar change, as The Sentry traditionally began the year with a relaxed field featuring the previous year’s winner and top 50 players. The season will now start directly with a full field. Whether The Sentry will return is still unclear, but 2026 will see quiet waters in Kapalua.