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Fort Worth's esteemed Colonial Country Club was the site of the inaugural Gladney Cup tournament in 1999, when two-hundred contestants from 17 states played in what would become one of the nation's most acclaimed charity golf challenges.
Not only did the event provide participants with the opportunity to play on one of this country's most prestigious golf courses, it gave players an experience unparalleled in amateur golf. Often compared to a professional tour experience, The 1999 Gladney Cup delighted golfers with its many amenities including real-time scoring, caddies and "appreciation packages" distributed to all tournament participants including designer apparel, top-of-the-line golf shoes and professional caliber equipment.
On the same world-class course where the likes of golfers such as Ben Hogan became legend, The Gladney Cup wrote its own chapter in the rich history of Colonial. By day's end, the event had raised more than a million dollars - a record-setting amount in Texas charitable golf events.
This overwhelming show of support from individuals and corporations fueled the enthusiasm for upcoming tournaments and gave rise to The 2001 Gladney Cup - an event that not only exceeded organizers' expectations, but firmly established it as a biennial tradition worthy to be associated with some of the world's best golf courses.
The 2001 event began in New York City the weekend before play. Attendees enjoyed a number of activities including a private shopping experience on 5th Avenue at Ermenegildo Zegna, a reception at Del Frisco's Double Eagle Steak House, a private showing of a new Miramax film and dining and a silent auction at the popular Guastavino's Restaurant.
Hosted by the internationally acclaimed Winged Foot Golf Club in Mamaroneck, New York, The 2001 Gladney Cup tournament attracted golfers and sponsors from across the country. Winged Foot has two courses rated in the Fifty Best Golf Courses in the World, which enabled tournament participation to increase to 250 players. It was an event rich in amenities and full of excitement, including an awards ceremony hosted by CBS Sports commentator Jim Nantz.
The tournament at Winged Foot set a new standard for The Gladney Cup, one that would be matched by a return to Colonial in 2003, where it was officially named "Home of the Gladney Cup."
Players, volunteers and corporate sponsors have joined in a common cause - to support building families through adoption. Together they share the grandeur of the country's best courses, and united they help create brighter futures for children around the globe.
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