Gary Player celebrates grand slam giving with DePaul UK
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The year 2015 has much cause for celebration for legendary golfer Gary Player, as he celebrates both his 80th birthday and the 50th anniversary of his career Grand Slam victory. Today (Wednesday, 6th May 2015) Player arrived in London to embrace this amazing year and to continue his union of golf and giving by visiting DePaul UK, a charity that works tirelessly to prevent youth homelessness.
Gary Player visited DePaul UK’s London-based Willesden Hostel, a long-stay hostel providing accommodation and specialist support for young homeless people between the ages of 16 and 25. At the hostel, young residents are provided with secure accommodations and assistance that helps them effectively develop life skills and establish a routine in their lives.
The Black Knight met current residents of the hostel, took a tour of the fantastic accommodations and learned more about the services offered with DePaul CEO Martin Houghton-Brown and Berenberg Head of Equities, David Mortlock, before joining in a number of fun activities such as a hole in one putting challenge.
It’s fair to say Player was given quite a reception, as he described, “It’s been fantastic to come and see how the money we raise through the Berenberg Gary Player Invitational is put to such amazing use by DePaul UK. I could not have asked for a more special reception by these miraculous young people at Willesden Hostel and I’m honoured to be able to help such an amazing charity.”
CEO Depaul, Martin Houghton – Brown further added, “I am delighted that the golf legend, Gary Player visited Depaul’s Willesden House today to meet with young people at risk of homelessness. His commitment through the Berenberg Gary Player Invitational to supporting young people in the UK is exceptional. Every young person Depaul supports has a dream, and I hope that meeting a Grand Slam Champion will inspire each of them to achieve their dreams, for family, friends and a great job. Who knows, maybe after today some of them will even go on to become sporting legends themselves.”
The 2015 Berenberg Gary Player Invitational will take place at its now regular UK home of Wentworth on July 20, 2015. An all-star cast of PGA Tour professionals from around the globe will participate in the event along with Player himself to celebrate the union of golf and giving.
David Mortlock, Berenberg Head of Equities commented, “It’s wonderful for Berenberg to continue our partnership in a year which is so significant for the golfing legend that is Gary Player. And it is also very special for us as Berenberg celebrates its 425th anniversary. This year’s event looks set to be a very special one and we look forward to raising yet more money for The Player Foundation and Berenberg Kids whose principal UK beneficiary is once again DePaul and who I had the pleasure of visiting today alongside Mr Player.”
Photo Credits: Dave Burlison: Burlison Photography
