South Kona Wrestlers
headed to Las Vegas
KEALAKEKUA — When South Kona Wrestling Club’s Rico Ventenilla started this club several years ago, even he could not have foreseen the immense reach he would attain in a few short seasons.
What started with just two kids and a single coach is now over 100 wrestlers, both boys and girls and over a dozen volunteer coaches. This is due, in large part, to Coach Rico himself. His philosophies, coaching style and genuine care for all the athletes he works with draw people in- high caliber coaches and athletes alike. These kids train five days per week for hours at a time.
For the first year ever, South Kona Wrestling Club is taking over 30 athletes to represent its club and the Big Island at the Freakshow Wrestling competition in Las Vegas, NV. This massive competition will feature 3,500 wrestlers from across the United States, taking place Oct. 14-15. The wrestlers attending from the club had to meet a series of requirements set by the coaching staff to be eligible. They signed a contract committing to attendance, hard work and positive behavior. They gave up their summer to train and fundraise and through community support have nearly reached their financial goals.
“We are proud of the maturity, work ethic and dedication these kids have shown,” SKWC announced in the release. “We are also incredibly grateful for the community helping them reach their goal of competing in such a high caliber competition.
“Without the financial support of local families, businesses and even tourists, we would not be able to afford to attend competitions, buy uniforms or gear for these kids. We can’t thank everyone enough.”
Those interested in more information or want to contribute to SKWC’s 501(c)(3) non-profit wrestling club, please feel free to reach out via email at southkonawrestling@gmail.com or mail at PO Box 1136 Kealakekua, HI, 96750.
Pickleball fundraiser
a huge sucess
KAILUA KONA — The Big Island Rogue Pickleball Hui announced that its 24-4-23 fundraising tournament held at Holua Racquet and Paddle in Keauhou has raised $33,656 for Maui Fire Relief, a number that has continued to grow as donations continue to be counted.
The fundraising event, which took place all day on Saturday, September 9, included 24 players in a 23-game round robin tournament. Prior to the tournament, registrants were asked to gather sponsors who would make donations directly to Maui Fire Relief charities. A goal of $250 in donations per player was given at the beginning of the registration process, although there was no minimum amount to participate.
The tournament start time was 8:30 a.m., and the final game ended at 7:30 p.m. This time included two rain delays, one very brief one and the second which lasted around 30 minutes, as well as short breaks for food and hydration.
Of the 24 players who started the 23-round tournament, 22 finished the event, a number which far exceeded expectations. Three substitutes also played in the second half of the event.
“When we organized the event, we were hoping to raise $10,000,” Big Island RPH president Lea Carey said. “As the final week progressed, we realized we would surpass that goal, but we had no idea that we would end up with over $33,000 in donations.”
Lea Carey continued, “We are just so happy to be able to help our ‘ohana and friends on Maui in some small way. We were all heartbroken by the events on our neighbor island, and we immediately decided we wanted to do our part to assist them in their time of need.”
The hui’s website listed five sponsors which were 501(c)(3) charitable organizations and tax deductible. However, many donations were made to other worthy organizations as well as some directly to families. The organizations listed on the website included Hawaii Community Foundation’s Maui Strong Fund, Maui Rapid Response, Maui Food Bank, Maui Humane Society and the Salvation Army.
The hui wanted to thank Holua Racquet and Paddle, the exclusive home of the club, for hosting the event.
The Big Island Rogue Pickleball Hui began operations in February 2021. The club has added 235 full members and has hosted over 1,500 players since its inception. The hui hosts round robins and other events almost every Saturday of the year. You can learn more about the hui on their website, bigislandroguepickleballhui.com, and on their Facebook and Instagram pages. You can also reach the hui via email at bigislandRPH@gmail.com.
Ironman Talk Story
to start Monday
KAILUA-KONA — Ahead of the 2023 VinFast Ironman World Championship women’s-only race on Oct. 14 in Kaliua-Kona, the community is invited to attend Talk Story with Ironman at 5:30 p.m. Monday and 5:30 p.m. Sept. 25 in the courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel Ballroom (75-5660 Palani Road).
The purpose of the two-time gathering is to have an open format in educating Kona’s residents on the world-famous race. Those new to the community are encouraged to attend. Free parking and refreshments will be provided.
