Black Knight International Presents a Union of Golf and Giving: Europe 2011

Ensuring the Gary Player Invitational’s Sustainability

The Gary Player Invitational presented by Coca-Cola and hosted by Gary Player celebrates a decade on the South African golf calendar at The Links at Fancourt in George, South Africa from 26-29 November 2009.

The event’s success as South Africa’s premier charity sporting event is thanks largely to the support of its many sponsors, which ensure the commercial viability of the tournament.

Presenting sponsor Coca-Cola, whose involvement also extends to the Gary Player Invitational China, has been partnering with the Black Knight to raise funds for needy children around the world.

Coca-Cola’s commitment has been superbly complemented by the event’s partners and suppliers, most of who have supported the event since its inception in 2000.

Heading that list is market and technology leader in business software solutions, SAP, an association that dates back over 10 years and a sponsorship that reinforces the brand’s alignment with the vision of golfing legend and tournament host, Gary Player.

Long standing global partner Callaway have not only supported and sponsored Gary Player but are also an integral part of each of the 4 Global Gary Player Invitational Events. Each of the participants attending the Event are treated to exclusive products and gifts donated by Callaway at each of the events.

Also celebrating 10 years of a strong relationship is premium brand, Rolex, whose association with South Africa’s Grand Slam champion and winner of 18 Majors (nine on the regular tour circuit and nine on the Champions Tour) dates back to 1965 when Player won the US Open.

Johnnie Walker and Heineken, which are both distributed by Brandhouse in South Africa, also return for the 10th successive year.

UPS continue their commitment to the event and will ensure that auction items bought at the Friday-night gala dinner make their way speedily and safely to their proud new owners.

Audi, the official motor vehicle, will transport guests and participants from around the world in a fleet of luxurious vehicles to and from Fancourt, one of South Africa’s finest five-star hotels and a spectacular home to all the participants and guests for the second year running.

“It is gratifying to have the support of these sponsors,” said tournament host, Gary Player.

“Not only does it ensure that the tournament is able to maximise the funds raised for the children’s charities, but it gives all these organisations an opportunity to capitalize on the international scope of the GPI events, benefiting from brand building and product showcasing in Europe, the USA, China and South Africa.”

The South African Gary Player Invitational presented by Coca-Cola, forms the final leg of the four event international series that includes the United Kingdom, United States and China.

Each of the GPI Events has at its heart the act of giving back to those less fortunate. The Player Foundation is in its 26th year, and has successfully raised more than R250-million helping to bring hope, help and healing to underprivileged children and communities worldwide.

“The length and level of commitment from these partners and sponsors underline the significant loyalty and support that has seen the Gary Player Invitational grow from strength to strength.” said Marc Player, CEO of Black Knight International.

“This year we celebrate the 10th anniversary of this very special tournament. This is not only a measure of its ongoing success, but its fundamental position in the international series.”