The International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) hosted the Sixth Annual Charity International Golf Tournament Sunday Nov. 16, and raised $64, 000 to benefit Give Kids The World (GKTW).
More than 152 attractions industry professionals from throughout the world participated in the sold-out event that took place at Mystic Dunes Resort and Golf Club in Celebration, Florida. The event preceded IAAPA Attractions Expo 2008, at the Orange County Convention Center, Nov. 17 – 21.
The foursome representing Congo River Golf won first place this year. The players included Andrew Callies, Christian Vozza, Giorgio Vozza, and Tyson Vozza. The runners-up represented National Ticket Company and included players Earl Foura, Clark Robinson, Alan Kanter, and Tim Timco.
“This tournament sums up what our industry’s all about, a very passionate business that’s focused on bringing enjoyment to people, ” said Jim Seay, president of Premier Rides.
Players from Sweden, Indonesia, Colombia, England, United States, and a number of other countries participated in the tournament.
“It’s great that we truly have an international tournament of industry leaders, ” said Bill Alter, tournament co-chair (along with Ed Carroll and John Graff). “It’s been absolutely amazing how the whole industry has pulled together.”
“Everyone appreciates the opportunity to make a contribution to Give Kids The World, ” said Charlie Bray, president and chief executive officer of IAAPA. “It’s a charity that’s been embraced by our industry for years.”
The funds raised in the tournament will continue to support expansion and construction at GKTW VIllage, a resort in Kissimmee, Florida, for children with life-threatening illnesses.
“This relationship with IAAPA is so natural—we’re all about giving kids hope and something to look forward to, ” said Pamela Landwirth, president of Give Kids The World. “It’s all because they [IAAPA members] want to make a difference in the lives of these kids. All you have to do is go to the Village and see these families walk down the Avenue and you know it’s making a difference in their lives.”
The 2009 Charity International Golf Tournament will take place in Las Vegas, Nevada, during IAAPA Attractions Expo 2009. Players or companies interested in participating or donating to the tournament should contact Angela Albertini at aalbertini@iaapa.org.
About Give Kids The World
Give Kids The World (GKTW) Village is a 70-acre, international nonprofit resort based in Central Florida that creates magical memories for children with life-threatening illnesses and their families. GKTW provides accommodations at its whimsical Village, donated attractions tickets, meals and more for a week-long, cost-free fantasy vacation. With the help of many generous individuals, corporations and partnering wish-granting organizations, Give Kids The World has welcomed more than 89, 000 families from all 50 states and more than 65 countries. To learn more about GKTW, visit gktw.org.
About IAAPA Attractions Expo 2008
The IAAPA Attractions Expo 2008 is the largest conference and trade show for the amusement park and attractions industry in the world. With its theme “Success in Every Direction, ” the show will draw an estimated 25, 000 participants, representing amusement and theme parks, family entertainment centers, waterparks, zoos, aquariums, museums, casinos, resorts, developers, themed entertainment designers, consultants, manufacturers, and suppliers, to the Orange County Convention Center from Monday, Nov. 17, through Friday, Nov. 21. The trade show floor will be open Tuesday, Nov. 18 through Friday, Nov. 21.
IAAPA Attractions Expo 2008 offers a solid week of business and fun. More than 1, 000 exhibitors will display their products and services in 1 million square feet of exhibit space. The event also includes educational sessions, behind-the-scenes tours, marquee social events, and networking opportunities. This is the marketplace where amusement and attraction industry leaders, decision makers, and visionaries gather to network, view the latest innovations, and plan for the future.
About IAAPA
IAAPA, the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions, is the premier trade association for the attractions industry worldwide. Founded almost 90 years ago, IAAPA is the largest international trade association for permanently situated amusement facilities and attractions and is dedicated to the preservation and prosperity of the amusement industry. IAAPA represents more than 4, 300 attraction, supplier, and individual members from more than 90 countries.
Contact Information
Press Office: +1 703/299-5127
David Mandt: dmandt@IAAPA.org
Marion Hixon: mhixon@IAAPA.org
Nicholas Wolaver: nicholas.wolaver@edelman.com
Rachel Rosenberg: rachel.rosenberg@edelman.com
See also:
IAAPA Inducts Three Attractions Industry Innovators in Hall of Fame at Expo
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