Himalayan Open

Himalayan Open Golf (HOG) is a non-profit community association dedicated to uniting the Nepalese and the global communities through the spirit of golf. It was founded on the principles of cultural exchange, ethical sportsmanship, philanthropy, and youth development, serving as a platform for connection and inspiration between communities in the U.S. and Nepal.

HOG’s mission is to cultivate, promote, and advance a vibrant community centered around golf. It aims to unite the Nepalese community across the United States and Nepal by fostering cultural exchange, promoting ethical sportsmanship, supporting charitable initiatives, and inspiring Nepalese youth to excel in the game.

HOG envisions a future where golf serves as a bridge between Nepal and the global Nepalese diaspora, strengthening unity and shared purpose. The organization aspires to build a global community that celebrates culture and sportsmanship while actively nurturing the next generation of golfers with access, mentorship, and opportunities to succeed on and off the course.

HOG operates under six core values that guide its members and leaders:

· Excellence & Growth: Striving for continuous improvement in all organizational activities.

· Integrity & Sportsmanship: Upholding the highest standards of honesty, respect, and fair play.

· Cultural Stewardship: Celebrating and promoting Nepal’s rich heritage and strengthening bonds between Nepalese communities.

· Community & Connection: Creating an inclusive environment for networking, mentorship, and lasting relationships.

· Youth Empowerment & Inspiration: Encouraging youth to discover golf and develop confidence, discipline, and leadership.

· Philanthropic Impact: Committing to sustainable change for underprivileged Nepalese youth through education and sports.

The main purpose of HOG is to use a shared passion for golf to achieve several key objectives:

· Create inclusive, competitive, and socially enriching experiences through our tournaments and events.

· Strengthen unity and collaboration among Nepalese and global communities.

· Foster cultural pride, professional networking, and mentorship.

· Promote golf among Nepalese youth as a tool for personal growth and excellence.

All net proceeds and funds collected from HOG tournaments and activities are dedicated entirely to charitable causes. These funds directly support educational assistance and sports development programs for underprivileged Nepalese youth.

HOG empowers the next generation by dedicating all net proceeds from its events to their educational assistance and sports development. The organization also aims to inspire children and youth to discover golf as a pathway for developing critical life skills such as discipline, confidence, and leadership.

The official name is the Himalayan Open Golf Tournament, and it is located in Colorado.

The tournament is a two-day event held on August 8 (Day 1) and August 9 (Day 2).

Play on both days will take place at Red Hawk Ridge Golf Course.

The full address is 2156 Red Hawk Ridge Drive, Castle Rock, CO 80109. The course website is https://redhawkridge.com/.

The starting tee time for both days of the tournament is 8:30 AM MST.

All official tournament communications will be shared via email and WhatsApp. Final player lists, groupings, and tee times will be distributed 7 days prior to the event.

The tournament is open to the following participants:

· Nepali and Himalayan diaspora golfers

· Additional participants by invitation only

Yes, all players must be 12 years of age or older to participate in the tournament.

To register, you must provide the following information:

· Full Name

· Email Address

· Phone Number

· Handicap Index (or a reasonable estimate)

· GHIN / GolfBook Number (if available)

· Course entry preference

· Emergency contact information

The deadline for registration is 30 days prior to the tournament’s start date.

The tournament is a two-day, 36-hole Individual Stroke Play event. Final standings will be determined by combining the scores from both days.

A handicap is required for Net scoring purposes only. Players without an official USGA/GHIN handicap must submit a reasonable self-declared handicap, which is subject to review and adjustment by the Tournament Committee to ensure equitable competition.

All scoring and handicap calculations will be administered exclusively through the GameBook App, which serves as the tournament’s official scoring system.

· Gross Score: Your total number of actual strokes played during a round.

· Net Score: Your Gross Score after it has been adjusted by your handicap.

Prizes will be awarded for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place finishers in two separate divisions:

· The Gross Division (based on actual scores)

· The Net Division (based on handicap-adjusted scores)

Any player who finishes in the top three of the Gross category is not eligible to win a prize in the Net category. If a Gross winner’s score also qualifies for a Net prize, that Net prize will be awarded to the next highest-ranking eligible player.

In the event of a tie for any prize position, the winner will be determined using the following procedure in order:

1. Lowest score for the final 9 holes.

2. If still tied, the lowest score for the final 6 holes.

3. If still tied, the lowest score for the final 3 holes.

4. If still tied, the lowest score on the final hole.

5. If a tie still remains, the winner will be determined by a scorecard playoff or another method selected by the Tournament Committee.

The Tournament Committee has the final authority on all matters. This includes modifying rules, adjusting handicaps, and interpreting or resolving all disputes. All decisions made by the committee are final.

The total purse for HOG 2026 is USD $12,000.

A detailed breakdown of prize allocations—including Gross, Net, and additional award categories—will be announced closer to the event date.

The USGA Rules of Golf will govern all play, supplemented by any local course rules. All rulings made by tournament officials are final.

Yes, all players will compete from the same tee box as designated by the Tournament Committee. Exceptions for female golfers may be approved and will be communicated prior to the tournament.

All players are expected to maintain pace with the group ahead of them. Tournament marshals are authorized to issue warnings or penalties for slow play to ensure a reasonable pace for all participants.

The tournament will be played rain or shine. In the case of severe weather that poses a safety risk, tournament officials may implement delays or make adjustments to the format.

Yes. All participants are expected to exhibit the highest levels of sportsmanship, honesty, integrity, and respect for fellow players and course staff. Violations of the code of conduct may result in penalties, disqualification, or removal from future HOG events.

Yes, players should prepare for the unique conditions of playing golf in Colorado:

· Altitude: The higher elevation will increase ball carry distances.

· Club Selection: Expect your ball to travel 5-10% farther, and adjust your club selection accordingly.

· Greens: The greens are typically faster and firmer.

· Weather: Conditions can be variable, with cool mornings and warm afternoons.

· Hydration: Due to the altitude, increased hydration is highly recommended.

Yes, all registered players will receive a Token of Participation. This may include items such as commemorative merchandise, certificates, or gifts from our sponsors.