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Fore! The Red Hornets drive for charity

nicholastan788

Updated: Dec 9, 2024

Dalton Wong, founder of Red Hornets, says that the proceeds of the Red Hornet Chairman Cup will go to supporting the Kantha Bopha Foundation. Khmer Times


Red Hornets, a charity group of golfing businessmen and women, is making waves in the golf arena. The Red Hornet Chairman Cup held in Phnom Penh brought participants from 12 different nationalities. Dalton Wong, the man at the helm of the Red Hornets, spoke to Khmer Times about the tournament’s ability to attract a diverse group from various backgrounds and nationalities


KT: Why do you think the Red Hornet Chairman Cup (RHCC) has become so popular and successful?

Dalton Wong: The RHCC began five years ago as a way to blend business networking with social golf, and it has expanded each year, drawing in participants beyond the original ‘band of brothers’.


I believe its success is largely due to its inclusive format, unique networking opportunities, and, most importantly, the genuine fun it offers. It’s become a bit like the ‘Avengers of Golf’ – bringing together participants from all walks of life, across industries and nationalities, all sharing a common goal of creating meaningful, win-win connections. Each year, attendance has grown by about 30 percent, which reflects the inclusive spirit and growing appeal of the RHCC as both a business networking event and a meaningful social gathering in Cambodia.


KT: What does this event say about the business community in Cambodia?Dalton Wong: Last year’s tournament featured participants from 12 different nationalities and various industries, whereas we have participants from 18 different countries and territories this year.


The tournament’s continuing ability to attract a diverse group from various backgrounds and nationalities showcases Cambodia’s rich, interconnected business community and reinforces golf as an enjoyable, effective platform for uniting people with shared goals of fostering relationships and giving back. It is also a reminder that Cambodia offers unique networking experiences, blending leisure with opportunities for meaningful connections.


KT: In many ways, golf and charity are a good fit. Why do you think that is?Dalton Wong: The RHCC began as a social gathering, but it quickly evolved into an event that gives back to the community. Last year, proceeds went to the United Nations charity Mine Action, and this year we’re supporting the Kantha Bopha Foundation in response to Prime Minister Hun Manet’s call to support the children’s hospital. The evolution of the RHCC into an annual event also underlines the positive role golf can play in charitable initiatives. By combining competition with an altruistic element, the tournament has managed to channel its growth into meaningful contributions to local causes, such as the Kantha Bopha Foundation this year.


KT: How many participants were there in the first tournament?

Dalton Wong: Our first tournament was a humble beginning, with around 20 players. Last year, we saw participation grow to over 70 golfers, and this year, we’re thrilled to have surpassed 90. Its increasing popularity – with attendance rising by 30 percent each year since its inception – is a testament to its value in the community and its engaging, accessible format.


KT: How much do you hope to raise this year?

Dalton Wong: Last year, we raised $12,000 for the Cambodia Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority, and we’re aiming to meet or exceed that amount this year for the Kantha Bopha Foundation.


KT: What was the age range last year? Were there many women participants?

Dalton Wong: Participants last year ranged from golfers in their 20s to players in their 70s. This year, we’re pleased to have six women golfers registered.


KT: What are the Novelty Holes?

Dalton Wong: We feature traditional novelty holes, such as longest drive, nearest to the line, nearest to the pin, and hole-in-one challenges, along with lucky draws and prizes for individual and teams. Last year, we introduced an auction to raise funds for Mine Action to add a meaningful layer to the festivities, and we’ll be doing the same this year for the Kantha Bopha Foundation.


KT: How do you involve non-players?

Dalton Wong: Non-golfers are welcome to join us for the prize-giving dinner, which offers a unique opportunity to network with government officials, diplomats, and members of the local and international business communities. It’s a wonderful setting to forge new connections or reconnect with friends. They’re also eligible for the lucky draw prizes, bringing an added element of excitement.


Inclusivity is at the heart of our event, you don’t have to be a Red Hornet or a member of a business chamber to participate in the tournament or attend the dinner.


KT: Where do you see golf going in Cambodia?

Dalton Wong: Cambodia is gaining recognition as a golf destination. With courses like Chhun On Golf Course, where this year’s RHCC is held, the country offers both quality golfing and rich cultural and tourism experiences. In fact, one of my companies is currently working on Cambodia’s first Greg Norman-designed course, which will be another top-notch option for both local and international golfers.


KT: What is the future of the RHCC?

Dalton Wong: As Cambodia’s status as a golf destination grows, we envision the RHCC becoming a signature event on both the golfing and business networking calendars, one that local and international players and business people alike look forward to – regardless of their golfing abilities. Our goal is for the tournament to not only provide a unique way to showcase Cambodia’s cultural and business opportunities but also to become a recurring platform for charitable support.


KT: Fore! The Red Hornets drive for charityWhat’s your favourite golfing story?

Dalton Wong: There are countless memorable moments, but one that stands out is when former Japanese Ambassador Masahiro Mikami introduced us to the Olympics Game – a mini short-game competition popular with Japanese golfers. It reminds me of the creativity and camaraderie golfers bring to the sport, as well as the power of human ingenuity, especially among golfers. Moments like these are what make events like the RHCC so special.


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