HP Byron Nelson hits $121 million in charitable giving

The Salesmanship Club of Dallas raised $5.15 million for its Youth and Family Centers through the HP Byron Nelson Championship, club officials announced Thursday.

Despite a challenging economy, the club netted through ticket sales its highest donation since 2008. The tournament increased its PGA Tour-leading total charitable contributions to $121 million.

The funds benefit the Salesmanship Club’s Youth and Family Centers, a non-profit organization that provides education and mental health services for at-risk children and their families.

``On March 1 we were $1 million behind last year’s pace,’’ said John Beckert, 2011 tournament chairman. ``Our members got after it and once again showed what we can do.’’

The total includes a $180,000 loss from paying liability insurance for ice damage to 180 courtesy cars and vans parked at the Four Seasons at Las Colinas.

The Nelson, played on Memorial Day weekend, returns to its normal date (May 17-20) in 2012.

Breaking down the Salesmanship Club’s donations the past five years:

2007: $6.4 million
2008: $6.1 million
2009: $4.4 million
2010: $4.7 million
2011: $5.15 million