Wiesberger & Sullivan among big names for the Gary Player Invitational

Joy Chakravarty 20:19 28/01/2016
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  • Inspirational figure: Nine-time major champion Gary Player.

    Top-40 players Bernd Wiesberger and Andy Sullivan headline a strong field of 18 pro golfers in the 2016 Gary Player Invitational, to be played at Saadiyat Beach Golf Club on Monday, February 8.

    Austria’s Wiesberger, who won the prestigious French Open last year and finished ninth in the Race to Dubai, and England’s Sullivan, runner-up in the DP World Tour Championship, will join the legendary Gary Player, tournament host, nine-time major champion and the man who designed the course.

    The Gary Player Invitational UAE is part of the world-leading GPI charity golf event series, which has raised more than $60 million for worldwide. The Union of Golf and Giving aims to raise funds for underprivileged children.

    “I am excited to see such an interesting cross-section of professional golfers joining our cause in seeking to provide a brighter future for those less fortunate than ourselves,” said Player.

    “I can’t wait to be back at Saadiyat Beach Golf Club for what is sure to be a memorable event and the start of a very important UAE charity drive over the next five years.

    “With the support of our wonderful host, ADSC and the facility owner TDIC, we are able to deliver a world-class golf experience and, in doing so, create a powerful fundraising platform.”

    Trevor Immelman, the 2008 Masters champion, is on board and he spoke about the positive influence Player has been on his life.

    “I have the greatest admiration for Mr Player’s career and his tireless work for charitable causes around the world,” he said.

    “He has provided me with so much valuable support and knowledge throughout my career, and as I embark on my career renaissance, his wisdom and experience is more valuable than ever. A day with Mr Player is like nothing else, and I’m delighted to participate in this year’s GPI in Abu Dhabi.”

    On behalf of the female professionals, 2015 Ladies European Tour Order of Merit runner-up, Melissa Reid said: “Everyone knows about Mr Player’s legendary achievements and I’ve witnessed first-hand his totally unique appeal, charm and energy at many GPI events. I’m thrilled to be playing once again at Saadiyat Beach in Abu Dhabi – it’s an incredible venue and it will be an incredible event.”

    Abu Dhabi Sports Council’s (ADSC) General Secretary, Aref Al Awani, added: “A field of major champions, Ryder Cup captains, rising global stars and multiple European Tour winners, alongside golfing icon Gary Player, provides another unique moment in cementing Abu Dhabi’s position on the global golf stage.

    “By adding top female professionals, as well as the UAE’s own Ahmed Al Musharrekh, this is one of the most unique fields ever assembled for a Pro-Am event in the UAE.

    “This provides a powerful complement to our core vision of creating a healthier and sporting nation – something Gary Player believes in so passionately.”

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