Beach Classic Hosted By Gary Player Raises Dh 2 Million To Help Children

The second annual Saadiyat Beach Classic hosted by Gary Player was a resounding success raising just under Dh 2 million ($ 545,000) for children in need and beating last year’s total of Dh 1.2 million ($327,000). The monies raised go directly to the Emirates Autism Centre, Ability Center for Special Needs, and The Player Foundation.

The 2011 event drew a fantastic field of professional golfers from both the Men’s and Women’s tours, celebrities and sports stars. Ryder Cup winning Vice Captain Thomas Bjorn lead his team to victory beating PGA Champion Henrick Stenson’s squad by one stroke, with tournament host Gary Player’s team finishing third. World number 9 Paul Casey, world number 12 Ian Poulter, Italian sensation Matteo Manessero, winning Ryder Cup Captain Colin Montgomerie and European ladies tour stars Henrietta Zuel and Carly Booth rounded out the field of professionals and rugby legends Victor Matfield, Gavin Hastings, ZinZan Brooke and former Manchester United star Dwight Yorke also competed.