Top seed and defending champion Feliciano Lopez took some time away from the South Africa Tennis Open to visit the Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve, where he met a rhino orphaned by poachers.
“It is really sad to hear that these beautiful animals are killed by poachers and the young rhinos are left behind with no one to care for them. Hopefully the fans that come out to watch the tennis can help raise some money to help look after them,” said Lopez.
Spectators at the Open who are unable to enjoy a full day of action are encouraged to place their ticket stubs in clearly marked boxes at the exits from the stadium. The tickets will then be re-sold at the three tournament information kiosks, with the proceeds going to the Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve to help care for orphaned rhinos.
“We are extremely happy and proud to be associated with the 2011 SA Tennis Open and extend our sincerest gratitude to the organisers for their willingness to contribute towards the Rhino & Lion Wildlife Conservation for the care of poaching orphans,” said Lorinda Hern-Visser, Marketing Manager of the Rhino and Lion Nature reserve.
(Photo: ATP World Tour)
[...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by Peggy Marie, The Slice. The Slice said: The @SATennisOpen is supporting the Rhino & Lion Nature Reserve, & @Feliciano_Lopez took some time to visit the Rhinos! http://bit.ly/eXv94Z [...]