– The Els for Autism Foundation highlights the power of inclusion and opportunity as youngsters take to the putting green with Ernie Els.
30 July, Algarve, Portugal – Four-time major champion Ernie Els joined children supported by the Els for Autism Foundation for a powerful #GameON Adapted Golf Clinic on Thursday in the lead up to the first round of the Portugal Invitational at the Els Club Vilamoura.
The clinic was filled with big smiles at the practice putting green of the venue, as the youngsters onsite enjoyed enhancing their golf skills with the help of one of golf’s most decorated players as well as members of the foundation, for a cause that is deeply meaningful to Els himself.
Els and his wife Liezl formed the Els for Autism Foundation after their son Ben was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and their personal journey inspired a lifelong commitment to creating better outcomes and brighter futures for individuals with autism.
Els said: “We all love our family and how ever we can help our family, we will do that, myself and my wife.
“Liezl was obviously a huge advocate to get the right treatment, schooling and the right environment for kids with autism, especially our son Ben, and that’s what we did. Along the way you help a lot of other families and other kids, so it’s a win-win for us and other families.”
Designed to help people with autism of all abilities reach their fullest potential, the foundation’s goal is to help those with the disorder to live meaningful, fulfilling lives, while supporting the caregivers who walk alongside them.
The clinic formed part of the wider activities surrounding the Portugal Invitational and underscored the event’s commitment to inclusion, community engagement and growing participation in the game.
Through the Portugal Invitational, a strong network of partners and broadcasters have been brought together, helping to give the tournament a significant platform from its very first edition. Arrow Global, Vilamoura, Visit Portugal and Visit Algarve are joined by Mercedes-Benz, Kress, Reflo, Dils, Deloitte, Lusíadas Saúde, Loulé, Heritage Wines, Heineken, Nespresso, Pacheca, Vista Alegre and InfraMoura.
Media partners include SIC Notícias, Expresso, Sport TV and JCDecaux. Their support provides a strong platform for the tournament’s debut and helps build momentum for the continued growth of the Portugal Invitational in the years ahead.
All three rounds will be televised in the United States on GOLF Channel and Sport TV in Portugal. International PGA TOUR Champions coverage is available in more than 170 countries and territories through the Tour’s network of media partners.
The first round begins this Friday, 31 July, with the inaugural Portugal Invitational champion set to be crowned on Sunday, 2 August.
For more information about the Portugal Invitational, including tickets and the latest tournament updates, visit https://www.portugalinvitational.com/
