HILO, Hawai'i – Game on! The University of Hawai'i at Hilo kicks off its third Vulcan Challenge to raise funds in support Hawai'i Hilo Vulcans Athletics.
In partnership with the UH Foundation, Vulcan Challenge 2024 runs through Oct. 17 with the goal of raising $150,000 for immediate support of Hawai'i Hilo's student-athletes during the 2024-25 academic year.
"These contributions make a real difference for our student-athletes, enabling them to thrive both academically and athletically," UH Hilo Chancellor Bonnie D. Irwin said. "The funds raised directly contribute to their success and well-being, empowering them to reach new heights."
The Vulcans are coming off a highly successful 2023-24 year, having re-captured the Pacific West Conference Men's Golf Championship and the PacWest Hawai'i Challenge. One of Hawai'i Hilo's proudest achievements was the academic performance of its student-athletes, setting a new program record of attaining an impressive grade-point average of 3.28.
KTA Super Stores and the Taniguchi family are continuing their loyal support of the Vulcan Challenge by matching the first $25,000 in gifts.
"We are so grateful for Toby Taniguchi and his team KTA Super Stores and their steadfast support of the Vulcan Challenge and Vulcans Athletics," Hawai'i Hilo Director of Athletics Patrick Guillen said. "This is the third time they are making a $25,000 matching gift, and it is in loving memory of Koichi and Taniyo Taniguchi, KTA Super Stores' founders."
Donors can select a sport-specific program or choose to support the athletics director's general fund, which will help in responding to urgent needs for critical services. Donations can also go toward supporting Vulcans Athletics sports medicine.
The last Vulcan Challenge in 2022 raised $161,120.
Visit HiloAthletics.com/VC for more information.
