The PGA Tour cancels The Sentry 2026 due to ongoing drought and water shortages in Kapalua, starting the year with the Sony Open in Hawaii.
What has been a fixed part of the calendar for years will be missing in 2026: the PGA Tour has removed The Sentry at the Kapalua Resort from the agenda. The reasons lie literally in the ground – or more precisely, in the lack of water. The ongoing drought on Maui, restrictions on irrigation, and numerous logistical challenges led to the decision not to hold the tournament. This means the PGA Tour loses its usual season opener at a course that has showcased spectacular drives and breathtaking Pacific views since 1999.
Water Shut Off – Course Conditions Unsuitable for the PGA Tour
As early as August 2025, it was clear: the Plantation Course was facing serious problems. Water supply was almost completely shut off, and both courses at Kapalua had to close. Even after partial easing of restrictions, the limited water quantities prevented the course from being restored to its usual condition. The PGA Tour sent agronomy teams to inspect, but the verdict was clear: no tournament start under these conditions. A replacement venue was considered, but transport, infrastructure, and scheduling made the plan unrealistic.
What’s Next for the Season Opener?
Whether The Sentry will return to the calendar in 2027 remains uncertain. Behind the scenes, work is underway on a new PGA Tour schedule. Among the ideas is moving the season start to February, with more focus and less competition from the NFL. Tiger Woods is leading the commission developing proposals for a more modern structure. Nothing has been decided yet.
Instead of The Sentry, the Sony Open in Honolulu will now take over the opening role. The event will be played starting January 15 at the Waialae Country Club. For the PGA Tour, this is more than a minor calendar change, as The Sentry was for many years the tournament where the previous year’s winner and top-50 players kicked off the new year in a relaxed atmosphere. Now, the season begins directly with the first full field. Whether and when The Sentry will return remains open – but one thing is certain: 2026 will be quiet in Kapalua.