Gary Player - The Legend

Gary Player: A Champion of Charity

Apr 01, 2006 | Filed Under: The Player Foundation

Gary Player is one of the undisputed great humanitarians of the game of golf. Having just eclipsed its 10th year, the Gary Player Invitational charity golf event has raised over $5 million to support education initiatives for underprivileged children. The first of four Gary Player-hosted events this year, the goal is to raise funds to educate children impacted by poverty in all corners of the globe.

This three-day Gary Player Invitational in Miami was done in uncompromising Gary Player style - black, sleek and stylish. The new venues, The Setai Hotel and Miami Beach Golf Club, attracted many new faces and gave the event a unique South Beach flare. On Monday, March 6th VIP guests had the opportunity to dine and play a round with Gary Player and two-time US Open Champion Retief Goosen. Sports stars like “Dr.J” Julius Erving, Tim Brown, Lawrence Taylor and Marcus Allen teed it up in Tuesday’s Celebrity golf Tournament, as well as Hollywood names like Kevin Sorbo (Hercules) Alan Thicke and Ed Marinaro. Model and actress Beverly Johnson also graciously strutted the fairways of Miami Beach Golf Club and later shared a dance with African-American golfing legend Charlie Sifford. The evening Dinner & Awards Gala, which took place right under the stars on Miami Beach, was highlighted by a mini-concert by Michael Bolton. Nicollete Sheridan watched her beau serenade guests before the South Beach after-party kicked into gear.

While golf was the focus by day, the evening gala was dedicated to the impoverished children of Pleasant City Elementary in West Palm Beach. An incredible speech by Principal Andrea Peppers earned a standing ovation and contributed to a very successful auction. At the end of the day, the cause remained at heart.

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