The second annual Vulcan Challenge raised over $160,000 for UH Hilo Athletics surpassing the program’s set goal of $75,000.

The nearly 30-day campaign, saw contributions from over 650 donors.

In a press release, UH Hilo director of athletics Patrick Guillen said, “We are so grateful for the outpouring of support from our Vulcans ‘Ohana.  The generosity of our alumni, friends, coaches, staff and our local business community is truly inspiring.”  Guillen continued, “We are especially humbled and thankful to KTA Super Stores and the Taniguchi ‘Ohana who once again made a matching gift in memory of KTA Founders, Koichi and Taniyo Taniguchi. Our student-athletes directly benefit from the success of our annual Vulcan Challenge. All proceeds enhance their experience here at UH Hilo, which in turn benefits our entire community. Mahalo nui loa!”

Midway through the challenge, KTA Super Stores and the Taniguchi ‘Ohana announced they’d be making a matching gift for the next $25,000 donated with each sports program receiving matching-funds of up to $1,000 each.

In partnership with the University of Hawai’i Foundation, Hawai’i Hilo Athletics has now raised more than $383,000 in the first two years of the Vulcan Challenge.

To further support Hawai’i Hilo Athletics, visit HiloAthletics.com/donate.