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Gary Player Invitational Raises Over $2 Million For AIDS Orphans In China

Nov 1, 2011 | Filed Under: General NewsThe Player FoundationEvents & Tournaments   Share

The 2011 Gary Player Invitational in Shanghai, China was a rousing success raising over $2 million to help benefit children who have been affected by AIDS throughout China. 

“It was absolutely fantastic and I could not have dreamed of a better birthday present!,” said a very happy Gary Player.

“This was our fifth Gary Player Invitational event in China and every year is better than the last.  The support we received from our sponsors and guests was incredible, especially during such difficult economic times.  Knowing that the monies raised will make a real difference in the lives of children who have faced such hardship because of AIDS is truly gratifying.  I can’t thank everyone involved enough and am looking forward to making next year’s tournament even more successful,” he added.

The GPI event began with a gala dinner and auction held at the Shangri-La Hotel in Shanghai on 31 October followed by a pro-am golf tournament at Shanghai Links Golf & Country Club on 1 November.  Singing superstar Eason Chan, singer songwriter JJ Lin and actress and singer Ariel Lin headlined the evening entertainment. 

“The support from everyone has simply blown us away,” said Marc Player, CEO of Black Knight International.  “The event has become so much more than a charity golf tournament which is a testament to the commitment that Doug Jackson and his super team at Coca-Cola have made to this event,” he added  

Perhaps the most visually memorable aspect of the gala dinner was the word “HOPE.”  To emphasize the true mission of the event – helping children in need build a better future – the word HOPE was placed at the entrance of the ballroom.  Upon arrival each guest was given a candle to light and place within the word.  The result was a beautiful candle-lit beacon reinforcing the commitment to assist those who need it most.

The GPI concluded on 1 November with a pro-am golf tournament featuring Major champions Retief Goosen and Louis Oosthuizen, Chinese professional golfer Lian-Wei Zhang and tournament host Gary Player.  Fun was had by all and Shanghai Links proved to be a good challenge. 

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