Derek Chinen Rallies to Win 2026 Mānoa Cup

The Kaneohe resident defeated Weber State sophomore Ryan Takeshita in the 36-hole championship match after overcoming a five-hole deficit following the morning round.

Takeshita controlled the opening 18 holes with consistent play while Chinen struggled with mistakes and his short game, taking a commanding 5-up lead into the afternoon.

Chinen quickly shifted the momentum by winning the first three holes of the final 18, trimming the deficit to two. He continued his charge and evened the match through 10 holes before the two golfers traded strong play down the stretch.

The championship was ultimately decided on the final two holes, where Takeshita faltered on Nos. 17 and 18, allowing Chinen to complete the comeback and secure the title.

The victory marks the biggest win of Chinen's career, adding the prestigious Mānoa Cup to previous titles at the HSGA Maui Amateur and the Klipper Amateur.