The Japan-America Society of Dallas/Fort Worth (JASDFW) celebrated the 11th Annual Sun & Star Golf Classic on November 14, 2025, at Bear Creek Golf Club, bringing together business leaders, community members, and friends for a day of golf and networking in support of the Society's cultural and educational initiatives.
The event, which serves as a key fundraiser for JASDFW, featured winning teams including first-place winner Orix Corporation USA and second-place winner SMBC. Contest winners included Dan Sinawat of AI Connex in the Mega Putt Putting Contest, Barron Bryant of KPMG, LLP for Longest Drive, and Joe Bunch of Barnes & Thornburg, LLP for Closest to the Pin.
Major sponsors included title sponsor Toyota North America, lunch sponsor Zeal IT Consultants, pre-tournament sponsor the City of Irving, cart/beverage sponsor Plano EDC, and contest sponsors ORIX Corporation USA and SMBC Group. Hole-in-one sponsor was Fortinet, with hole sponsors including Panasonic, Technologent, Toyota Tsusho Systems (Thailand) Co., Ltd., First Class Imports, MUFG, KPMG, and Barnes & Thornburg LLP.
“Each year, this event reminds us how much can be accomplished when our business and cultural communities come together,” said Lawrence P. Howorth, Chair of the Board of Directors of JASDFW. “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 support programs such as the Japan America Friendship Night at the Texas Rangers, the annual Mochitsuki New Year's Celebration, and the Japan-America Grassroots Summit, which foster cultural exchange and understanding. Looking ahead, JASDFW is preparing for its upcoming programs and the 2026 Sun & Star Legacy Award Dinner, which will feature special guest Texas Governor Greg Abbott.
JASDFW's mission is to connect North Texas and Japan through opportunities for friendship, understanding, and meaningful exchange. More information about the Society and its programs is available at www.jasdfw.org.
