The George Chiu Golf Classic (GCGC) is an organization dedicated to promoting amateur golf within the Asian community. Its primary objectives are to identify the best amateur Asian golfers and to establish scholarships that support the development of junior golfers of Asian heritage.
The GCGC hosts an annual tournament known as the Asian Amateur Golf Invitational. This event serves as a platform to showcase top amateur Asian golfers and to foster the growth of junior talent through scholarship opportunities. By organizing this tournament, the GCGC aims to cultivate a strong community of Asian golfers, celebrate their achievements, and ensure the continued development of the sport among younger generations.
George is a distinguished entrepreneur, philanthropist, and co-founder of Mandarin Restaurants, one of Ontario’s most successful restaurant chains. Born in Taiwan, Chiu moved to Montreal in 1976, where he pursued studies in business administration and mechanical drafting. His career began as a draftsman, but his entrepreneurial spirit soon led him to a life-changing business opportunity. In 1979, alongside his wife Diana, brother James, and friend K.C. Chang, he opened the first Mandarin Restaurant in Brampton, Ontario. What started as a single location has since grown into a thriving chain with 21 locations across the province, serving millions of customers each year.
George Chiu is a passionate golfer and a dedicated member of the Asian golf community. His love for the sport and commitment to fostering talent led to the establishment of the George Chiu Golf Classic, an annual tournament that celebrates amateur Asian golfers and supports the development of junior players through scholarships. George's vision was to create a platform that not only showcased golfing excellence but also united the community in the spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie. His annual tournament continues to inspire and shape the future of golf within the Asian community.
Beyond his business achievements, Chiu is deeply committed to giving back to the community. As Vice President of Mandarin Restaurants and Chairman of the Mandarin Charitable Foundation, he has championed numerous philanthropic initiatives. Since its founding in 2004, the foundation has donated more than $900,000 to charities such as Big Brothers Big Sisters, SickKids Hospital, the Canadian Cancer Society, the Heart and Stroke Foundation, and the Chinese Cultural Centre. Under his leadership, Mandarin also contributed $100,000 toward SARS research at Mount Sinai Hospital during the 2003 outbreak.
Chiu’s dedication to both business excellence and community service has earned him widespread recognition. In 2009, he was named Business Person of the Year by the Brampton Board of Trade, an honour acknowledging his leadership and contributions to the city’s economic and social well-being. His impact extends beyond the restaurant industry, supporting organizations like the Brampton YMCA, William Osler Health Centre, and city initiatives such as Communities in Bloom and Winterlights.
With over 2,000 employees and annual sales exceeding $100 million, Mandarin Restaurants has received numerous accolades, including "Company of the Year" from Foodservice and Hospitality Magazine and "Outstanding Business Achievement" from both the Brampton Board of Trade and the Ontario Chamber of Commerce.
A true leader in business and philanthropy, George Chiu’s legacy is one of vision, dedication, and generosity. His commitment to excellence and his unwavering support for the community continue to shape the success of Mandarin Restaurants and inspire those around him.