DEREK JETER CELEBRITY INVITATIONAL

Derek Jeter’s Star-Studded Golf Tournament Contributes Critical Funds to Turn 2 Foundation

Celebrities and athletes hit the links at Baha Mar’s Royal Blue Golf Course to support Derek Jeter’s Turn 2 Foundation

GRAMMY-nominated artist Busta Rhymes gave showstopping performance at DJI Gala; Award-winning artist D-Nice performed DJ set, and radio and TV personality

Angie Martinez served as event emcee

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – May 14, 2023 – Dozens of stars from the worlds of sports and entertainment joined Baseball Hall of Famer Derek Jeter in The Bahamas for the Derek Jeter Invitational (DJI), which contributed funds to Jeter’s Turn 2 Foundation. During the four-day event hosted by Baha Mar, VIP guests hit the links at Baha Mar’s Jack Nicklaus signature design Royal Blue Golf Course and enjoyed special events held throughout the resort. This year's event was held in partnership with The Turn 2 Foundation, Baha Mar and Wagoneer.

“After spending an unforgettable few days surrounded by our friends and supporters, I feel incredibly grateful for the continued generosity in support of Turn 2’s mission,” said Derek Jeter. “The funds contributed from this event enable us to build upon the Foundation’s programs that equip young people with the tools they need to create positive change, build confidence, achieve their goals and ultimately leave their mark on the world. I’d like to extend a special thank you to Busta Rhymes and D-Nice for providing our guests with amazing entertainment, and to Angie Martinez for graciously serving as our emcee. I’d also like to thank our partners at Baha Mar and Wagoneer for helping us to present this fantastic event.”

On Thursday, May 11, guests enjoyed a Welcome Party at Marcus at Baha Mar Fish + Chop House emceed by radio and TV personality, author and producer Angie Martinez, which featured music by legendary, award-winning artist, DJ and philanthropist D-Nice. During the special event, The Turn 2 Foundation also presented a $50,000 donation to the Baha Mar Resort Foundation, which will support Baha Mar’s projects and investments within the Bahamian community.

"We've had an exceptional week hosting the Derek Jeter Invitational, raising funds for both The Turn 2 Foundation and the Baha Mar Resort Foundation," said Graeme Davis, President, Baha Mar. "We continue to be a proud partner of this tournament and its charge of promoting positive change for youth. The Turn 2 Foundation’s mission aligns with Baha Mar’s vision to improve our community through philanthropic efforts supporting culture, community and conservation within The Bahamas.”

The two-round celebrity-amateur tournament began Friday, May 12, at the 18-hole Royal Blue Golf Course. Following round one of the tournament, celebrities participated in a competitive shootout at Royal Blue. The tournament continued Saturday, May 13, and after some friendly competition and taking in breathtaking views on the golf course, guests enjoyed the spectacular DJI Gala that evening at The Grand Hyatt Convention Center. The gala, emceed by Martinez, featured a star-studded red carpet, exciting live auction and a show-stopping live musical performance by GRAMMY-nominated rapper, singer, musician, record producer, record executive and actor Busta Rhymes. During the gala, Wagoneer presented The Turn 2 Foundation with a donation of $500,000, which will support its programs that empower youth to rise above negative influences, strengthen their leadership skills, create positive change and achieve their full potential. The festivities concluded Sunday, May 14, with a celebrity round of golf at Royal Blue.

Turn 2 started its golf event in Tampa in 2003, and over the years has grown the initiative into events that have been held in Las Vegas and The Bahamas, contributing millions of funds to advance its mission.

Derek Jeter established The Turn 2 Foundation during his rookie year with the New York Yankees in 1996. Since its launch, Turn 2 has worked to help young people reach their full potential by creating and supporting initiatives that promote leadership development, academic achievement, positive behavior, healthy lifestyles and social change.

DJI celebrities in attendance included: Tiki Barber, Derrick Brooks, Nate Burleson, Kevin Connolly, Victor Cruz, Kevin Dillon, D-Nice, Joey Fatone, Jerry Ferrara, Cliff Floyd, Ken Griffey Jr., Rob Gronkowski, Natalie Gulbis, Reggie Jackson, Andruw Jones, Angie Martinez, Tino Martinez, Booger McFarland, Fred McGriff, Charles Oakley, Chandler Parsons, Jorge Posada, Busta Rhymes, Rob Riggle, CC Sabathia, Ramon Sessions, J.R. Smith, Paige Spiranac, Michael Strahan, Tanyon Sturtze, Nick Swisher, Chris Tucker, Heidi Watney and Deron Williams.