United legend set for GPI

Johannesburg - Former Manchester United soccer legend Andy Cole is the latest celebrity to join this year's field of celebrity participants at Africa's premier golfing event, the Gary Player Invitational (GPI) event presented by Coca-Cola, taking place from 20-23 November at Sun City’s The Lost City Golf Course and The Palace Hotel.

The Manchester United soccer legend joins a strong field of professional golfers, celebrities, businessmen and sport enthusiasts competing on the golf course at this year's charity tournament.

"This will be my fifth visit to SA. I love the scenery, people, climate and the food and I'm looking forward to taking part and meeting Gary Player for the first time," said the former English soccer striker.

Speaking ahead of this year's GPI event, Cole commended Mr Player on being "a true legend of the golfing world."

"I think it is always good to give back and help others which are less fortunate, I get a great sense fulfilment from doing just that too," admitted Cole.

District 9 actress Vanessa Haywood and SA cricketer Herschelle Gibbs have also pledged their support and will be amoung the celebrity competitors joining tournament host and golf icon Gary Player for the Union of Golf and Giving.

Professional golfers joining the “Union of Golf and Giving” include Ian Woosnam, Lee Slattery and Carly Booth, adding to an already exciting field of competitors who will go head-to-head on the golf course next month, all in the name of charity.

"I've had some great times in South Africa and I'm looking forward to it. As golfers we are in such a fortunate position to use our talent to relieve the plight of those less fortunate in the world. I'm delighted to return to South Africa and support the Gary Player Invitational and the charities it supports,” said Ian Woosnam.

The GPI series has raised over R600 million for charity in order to support the various causes supported by The Player Foundation.

The 2014 event marks Haywood's first time as a participant at the charity tournament, which aims to give back to others, and she's excited to compete amongst some of the world’s most celebrated sporting stars and celebrities.

"Gary Player is a phenomenal sportsman and what a philanthropist he is, doing good where ever he goes,” expressed Vanessa Haywood.

“The GPI is a highly prestigious event and I am thrilled to be able to make it this year.”

As for fellow sporting personality, Gibbs, this marks his third time supporting the GPI and says he's looking forward to another successful event.

For more information on the Gary Player Invitational, visit www.garyplayerinvitational.com and follow @GPInvitational on Twitter or use the hashtag #GPISA2014 

Actress Vanessa Haywood will be teeing off alongside Andy Cole at the #GPISA2014