Waiakea’s Dalen Yamauchi is Big Island Athlete of the Month

Hilo golfer Dalen Yamauchi has been named the Big Island Athlete of the Month for August.

Yamauchi, a senior this year at Waiakea High School, sank a clutch 3-foot putt on the 18th hole to capture the 87th annual Big Island Amateur Championship on Aug. 1 at Mauna Lani Resort’s North Course.

Yamauchi is also a cross country runner for the Warriors and over the past two years has lost some weight and credits his cross training for his success in golf.
Yamauchi overcame a strong challenge from Ric Yamamoto, Shaun Downie and defending champion Greg Molfino and 35 to 40 miles per hour winds to win the championship flight with a (75-81) 156 total in the two-day event.

The Big Island Amateur Championship is considered the oldest and most prestigious golf tournament on the Big Island.

Yamauchi opened the event with a 75, good enough to be the sole leader. And he carried a two-stroke lead to the 18th hole on Sunday, playing in the final group with Yamamoto, Downie and Molfino.

The Big Island athlete of the month program is sponsored by Don’s Grill, under owner Don Hoota. The athlete of the month and athlete/sportsperson of the year program was founded by the late Jack Matsui.

The selection committee includes chairman Bill O’Rear, Hugh Clark, Ramon Goya and Stan Costales.

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