As the PGA Tour season kicks off at Kapalua, there is a distinct sense of somberness and a different feeling in the air. Collin Morikawa, a regular participant in the tournament, arrived at the course wearing an apron and shivering from the cold. However, before heading to the range, Morikawa made a detour up the mountain to work with Hua Momona Farms, a local farm specializing in microgreens. The farm has been providing free meals to Maui families affected by the deadly fires in Lahaina, which claimed the lives of at least 100 people. Among the employees who lost their homes in the fires was Zach Laidlaw, the chef at Hua Momona Farms.

Morikawa and his wife joined the farm's efforts, clipping beet sprouts, peeling carrots, and packing boxed meals in a freezer trailer. This cause holds a special significance for Morikawa as his grandparents were born in Lahaina and owned a restaurant on Front Street, which was demolished by the fires. Despite the closure of the Morikawa Restaurant, Lahaina remained a cherished place for Morikawa during his childhood. He expressed his deep connection to the community and his determination to do great things in the tournament in honor of Lahaina.

The Sentry tournament at Kapalua is the first of eight $20 million signature events on the PGA Tour schedule. It features a 59-man field comprised of winners from 2023 and those who finished in the top 50 in the FedEx Cup. The picturesque views of the Pacific Ocean and occasional sightings of humpback whales make it seem like any other year at Kapalua. However, the reality is far from ordinary.

Driving towards Kapalua along the Honoapiilani Highway, the charred remains of Lahaina are visible, accompanied by a faint smell of smoke. The fires destroyed over 2,000 buildings, leaving a lasting impact on the community. Morikawa is not the only player deeply concerned about the situation. Xander Schauffele, whose father was a teaching pro in Hawaii, was one of the first to get involved in relief efforts by joining with Hawaiian Host Group to match donations. Schauffele hosted a clinic for junior golfers affected by the fires, providing them with a sense of relief and enjoyment amidst the challenging times.

Other players, such as Tony Finau, Rickie Fowler, and Patrick Cantlay, have also stepped up to support the community. Finau organized a family tournament on the Bay Course, streaming it live and raising funds for local charities. Fowler collaborated with Cobra Puma Golf to create a hat with an “L” for Lahaina, with all proceeds going to the Maui United Way. Cantlay's foundation partnered with the First Responders Children's Foundation, offering support to families impacted by the fires.

The PGA Tour has always emphasized charity, but this week the focus is even greater. The extensive damage caused by the fires necessitates a collective effort to aid the healing process and bring Lahaina back to normalcy. The tournament aims to provide both charity and relief to the community, showcasing the power of golf to make a positive impact.

Despite the signs of recovery, with some businesses reopening in the outskirts of Old Lahaina Town, caution remains. Employees are hesitant to discuss the traumatic events they experienced. The PGA Tour has requested that visitors refrain from inquiring about residents' experiences unless they willingly share their stories. The impact of the fires is deeply felt by everyone involved in the tournament, from staff members to players.

To begin the tournament, a special Hawaiian blessing will take place on the first tee, symbolizing hope and unity. Players like Schauffele, Morikawa, and Tom Hoge have pledged to donate money for every birdie and eagle they make. Additionally, "Lahaina Strong Saturday" will encourage fans to wear red shirts in support of the community. Jon Rahm, the defending champion, is absent from the tournament due to his suspension for joining LIV Golf. Nevertheless, the other 59 players are eager to start the new year on a positive note.

While the idyllic setting of Kapalua may create a sense of normalcy, the tournament is a reminder of the shattered lives and the ongoing healing process in Lahaina. The PGA Tour and its players are determined to use their platform to provide entertainment, charity, and support to the community. This season opener holds a deeper meaning, serving as a symbol of resilience and unity in the face of adversity.