Gary Player Invitational raises over $100,000 at Wentworth

Twenty fours after Italian Francesco Molinari lifted the Claret Jug at Carnoustie, a host of golfing legends and major champions lined up with some of the sport’s hottest young talent in the star-studded annual Berenberg Gary Player Invitational extravaganza at Wentworth.

The superstar field included 11 Major winners in all with the legendary South African host being joined by fellow countrymen Ernie Els, Trevor Immelman and Charl Schwartzel, Tom Watson, Fred Couples, Padraig Harrington, Tom Lehman, Martin Kaymer, Mark O’Meara and Hale Irwin.

It was the team led by former Masters champion, Trevor Immelman, and rising Ladies European Tour star, Annabel Dimmock, who won the 2018 title and claimed overall victory and the striking Baobab Trophy. 

The memorable day concluded with a black-tie dinner and auction, where guests bid on a selection of once-in-a-lifetime experiences that included VIP trips to The Ryder Cup, Wimbledon and The Masters next April.

“This year’s London event has been very special for me, especially as it directly followed The Open at Carnoustie, where I had visited earlier in the week to celebrate the 50th anniversary of my victory in 1968,” said 18-time Major winner Player.

“The important funds raised at Wentworth will undoubtedly help make a difference to many young lives through our chosen charity, Depaul. I thank all our sponsors and our guests for playing their part in another successful and very enjoyable event.”

The London leg of Player’s world-leading Invitational Series amassed nearly $105,000 though the overall target of chief backer Berenberg, the private investment bank, and Black Knight International is to raise a staggering $100m for underprivileged education.

In addition to the UK, annual events are staged by Black Knight International in Abu Dhabi, Japan, USA, China and South Africa.