Mauna Kea Golf Course celebrates 50 years

BIG ISLAND (HawaiiNewsNow) - On the Big Island, the Mauna Kea Golf Course celebrated its 50th year of operation, providing golfers with a one-of-a-kind experience.

The 41st Annual Mauna Kea Pro-Am tournament wrapped up as well and very special guests were welcomed at the awards ceremony.

Emceeing the event was Mark Rolfing NBC/Golf Channel analyst and also making an appearance was Rees Jones, the course's architect in charge of renovations. Jones is also the son of Mauna Kea Golf Course's original designer Robert Trent Jones, Sr.

Jones Sr. had the course christened in 1964 by golf's "Big Three", Arnold Palmer, Gary Player and Jack Nicklaus.

The five-day tournament which concluded this past Sunday, December 7, pairs three amateur golfers with a pro from the PGA. This year's winners, Jin Hong, Chris Tarr and Danny Shin paired up with pro Shawn McCauley for the victory.

In addition to the award ceremony for the winners and the half century celebration, an employee who has been with the course before it was even christened was honored. Donald Case was given special recognition for his 52 years of service to the Mauna Kea Golf Course.

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