Launch of the 2025 Diamonds International x Rotary Club of Barbados West Charity Golf Classic
Sept 19, 2025 — The Rotary Club of Barbados West, in proud partnership with title sponsor Diamonds International, has officially launched the 2025 Diamonds International x Rotary Club of Barbados West Charity Golf Classic, one of the island’s most anticipated charity sporting events. The tournament is scheduled for Sunday, October 19th, 2025, and will once again take place at the scenic Royal Westmoreland Golf Club, marking the 21st staging of the event.
Far more than a tournament, the Charity Golf Classic is a celebration of fellowship, community, and purpose. Since its inception 23 years ago, the event has raised over $2.7 million, supporting the Club’s investment into transformative community projects across Barbados. These include the refurbishment of the Pediatric Ward at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH),
the establishment of the Renal Dialysis Unit, school breakfast programs, tertiary scholarships, microbusiness grants, and critical support for children living with dyslexia through the Caribbean Dyslexia Centre.
Current Rotary President, Andre Wharton, provided details on this year’s initiative, highlighting the focus on the “Clear Vision, Bright Futures” project, which aims to prevent avoidable vision loss in Barbados. Central to this mission is the purchase of the Optos California Ultra-widefield (UWF) Camera, a cutting-edge diagnostic tool valued at $270,000 that will significantly improve the management and treatment of retinal disease at the QEH Eye Clinic. With the prevalence of non-communicable diseases such as diabetes and hypertension
in Barbados, this initiative promises to transform outcomes in eye care, offering countless Barbadians the gift of sight and the promise of a brighter future.
Horace Cobham, Planning Chair for the event, emphasized the longevity and impact of the Charity Golf Classic, noting that the tournament has grown into one of the most significant fundraising and community-building events in Barbados, thanks to decades of dedicated planning and support from Rotarians and sponsors alike.
Although unable to attend the launch, Mr. Jacob Hassid, Managing Director of Diamonds International, shared his thoughts through Assistant Marketing Manager, Caroline “CiCi” Reid, who expressed on his behalf:
“From the very beginning, Diamonds International has stood with the Rotary Club of Barbados West in making this Golf Classic not just a tournament, but a powerful force for good. For me personally, it has always been about more than sponsorship — it is about service, responsibility, and giving back to a country that has given us so much. We remain unwavering in our support because the work being done here changes lives, strengthens communities, and builds a brighter future for Barbados.”
The Rotary Club of Barbados West also expressed gratitude to Royal Westmoreland, whose world-class course and hospitality have elevated the tournament year after year, as well as the many dedicated partners, sponsors, and volunteers who continue to drive its success.
This year, Diamonds International will proudly field two participating teams, including one led by international cricketer Jason Holder, whom the Club and sponsors are delighted to welcome back once again. His participation continues to underscore the event’s appeal and the strong community spirit that brings together Rotarians, business leaders, and sports personalities for a
common cause.
As the Club looks ahead to its 50th anniversary of service in 2025, this year’s Charity Golf Classic promises to be the biggest and most impactful yet — a day of spirited competition, camaraderie, and commitment to Rotary’s guiding principle: service above self.
The 2025 Diamonds International x Rotary Club of Barbados West Charity Golf Classic will take place on Sunday, October 19th, 2025, at Royal Westmoreland Golf Club.
