Started playing golf at age 9...An accomplished junior tennis player, turned full attention to golf at age 14...Heavily involved
in junior golf of South Africa and Cancer Society of South Africa...Hosts Ernie Els Invitational in South Africa to raise
money for charity. Ernie Els Foundation formed in early 1999, with the purpose of providing full support to disadvantaged
children. Proceeds from the Ernie Els Invitational go to four charities and the Foundation...Established the Els for Autism
Foundation in spring 2009, with son Ben, who is Autistic, the driving force behind the mission. Goal is to fund an Autism
Center of Excellence, a model for the world of what should be done for children with Autism. The Center will include an educational
program for children age 3-21 and research facility...In December 1998, received lifetime membership on European Tour. Other
non-Europeans so honored are Bob Charles, Arnold Palmer and Gary Player...In 2002, the 2000 Engelbrecht-Els wine was released
and received the highest rating yet given to a South African wine...Third Ernie Els design signature golf course near George
in South Africa opened in 2004...Web site is ernieels.com.
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