The Japan-America Society of Dallas/Fort Worth celebrated another successful year on the greens at the 11th Annual Sun & Star Golf Classic, held at Bear Creek Golf Club. This signature event brought together business leaders, community members, and friends of Japan and Texas for a spirited day of golf, connection, and shared purpose in support of JASDFW's cultural and educational programs.
The importance of this event extends far beyond the golf course, representing a critical mechanism for maintaining and strengthening the economic and cultural bonds between Japan and North Texas. Japan remains one of Texas's most significant international partners, with numerous Japanese corporations maintaining major operations throughout the state. Events like the Sun & Star Golf Classic provide essential networking opportunities that facilitate business relationships and cross-cultural understanding.
This year's winning teams included Orix Corporation USA taking first place and SMBC securing second place. Individual competition winners included Dan Sinawat of AI Connex winning the Mega Putt Putting Contest, Barron Bryant of KPMG, LLP achieving the Longest Drive, and Joe Bunch of Barnes & Thornburg, LLP winning Closest to the Pin. The participation of major corporations in both the competition and sponsorship roles demonstrates the business community's commitment to maintaining strong Japan-Texas relations.
The event's success was made possible through generous sponsorship from leading international corporations. Toyota North America served as Title Sponsor, while Zeal IT Consultants sponsored lunch. Other significant sponsors included the City of Irving as Pre-Tournament Sponsor, Plano EDC as Cart/Beverage Sponsor, and Fortinet as Hole in One Sponsor. Additional contest and hole sponsors included ORIX Corporation USA, SMBC Group, Panasonic, Technologent, Toyota Tsusho Systems (Thailand) Co., Ltd., First Class Imports, MUFG, KPMG, and Barnes & Thornburg LLP.
Lawrence P. Howorth, Chair of the Board of Directors for the Japan-America Society of Dallas/Fort Worth, emphasized the broader significance of the event. "Each year, this event reminds us how much can be accomplished when our business and cultural communities come together," Howorth stated. "It's not just about a day of golf—it's about building bridges, creating opportunity, and celebrating the shared spirit of collaboration that defines the Japan–Texas relationship."
The funds raised through this event directly support JASDFW's cultural and educational initiatives, including the Japan America Friendship Night at the Texas Rangers, the annual Mochitsuki New Year's Celebration, and the Japan-America Grassroots Summit. These programs continue to thrive and inspire new connections across generations, ensuring that the Japan-Texas partnership remains strong for years to come.
As the Society looks ahead to its upcoming programs, including the 2026 Sun & Star Legacy Award Dinner with special guest Texas Governor Greg Abbott, the continued support from members, sponsors, and volunteers remains essential. The ongoing success of events like the Sun & Star Golf Classic demonstrates the enduring importance of cultural exchange and business collaboration between Japan and Texas. For more information about the organization's mission and programs, visit https://www.jasdfw.org.
