St. Augustine, Fla. (January 24, 2006) – The World Golf Hall of Fame will unveil its next special exhibit, "Gary Player: A Global Journey," on Tuesday, March 21, 2006, during THE PLAYERS Championship. The exhibit will tell the story of the world’s most traveled athlete and explore the impact he has had on the game and beyond.
"The Hall of Fame does a terrific job telling the story of its members throughout the museum," said Player, who is the Hall of Fame’s Global Ambassador. "I am honored and excited by their decision to shine the light on my story for this special exhibit and am eager to see the final product."
"Gary Player: A Global Journey" will celebrate his storied life and career through a comprehensive collection of personal memorabilia, historic artifacts, images and video that have not been viewed by the public.
The Grand Slam area will showcase Player’s Grand Slam trophies, plus all of his significant major championship artifacts, including his nine major championship medals, the Black Knight Blade Putter used to win the Grand Slam and more than 100 other worldwide events, scorecards, crystal and commemorative gifts. Additionally, Player’s Green Jacket from the 1961 Masters Tournament will be showcased, as will his fiberglass-shaft driver used to win the 1965 U.S. Open.
A selection of other trophies, medals and awards from Player’s career will also be on display in The World Stage area of the exhibit, including his 13 South African Open medals, seven Australian Open medals and the scorecard from the 1974 Brazil Open when he shot a 59. Known as the World’s Most Traveled Athlete, the exhibit will incorporate stories of his successes on each continent in which he has won.
Since 1983, Player’s philanthropic endeavors have been channeled into the Gary Player Foundation, an organization that initially addressed the education crisis in his native South Africa. The Knight’s Shining Armor area of the exhibit will focus on the undertaking of his Foundation, with particular attention paid to the Blair Atholl Schools, and his work alongside the likes of Nelson Mandela, to better the human race—regardless of color.
Gary Player is a family man and a global business. The Legend of the Black Knight will tell the story of both sides of this great golfer away from the course. Supporting personal stories that give further insight into Player will be numerous artifacts that represent his interest in golf course design, fitness, fine wine, thoroughbred racing and more.
Stories from Player’s childhood will be told in the exhibit as well. Where It All Began will feature photos and items from his early years and his first ventures into the game of golf.
"Gary Player’s story has and continues to be fascinating to even the casual fan," said Jack Peter, Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the Hall of Fame. "We are grateful for the support of Mr. Player and the Gary Player Group in our effort to provide a glimpse into the life of this global champion."
"Gary Player: A Global Journey" will remain on display through the beginning of 2007.
About the World Golf Hall of Fame
World Golf Hall of Fame, located in St. Augustine, Fla., is the ultimate destination for the celebration and recognition of golf’s greatest players and contributors and an inspiration to golfers and fans throughout the world. A collaboration of 26 national and international golf organizations support the Hall of Fame, including the PGA TOUR, LPGA, USGA, PGA of America and The R&A. The museum houses interactive exhibits and historic and personal artifacts that tell the stories of its members and the game of golf. Adjacent is the World Golf Hall of Fame IMAX® Theater. For more information, visit www.wgv.com.
Contact:
Jane Fader
904-940-4009
jfader@wghof.org
www.wgv.com