Prostate Cancer UK’s flagship golfing fundraiser, The Big Golf Race, has raised over £1.25 million so far in 2025, marking a significant year-on-year increase in support for men affected by prostate cancer, the most common cancer in England.
Since its launch in 2020, more than 17,300 golfers have taken part in the challenge, collectively raising over £5.6 million to fund groundbreaking research aimed at improving the diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer.
High-profile participants have embraced the campaign this year. Golf YouTuber Rick Shiels took on the 100-hole Ultra Marathon alongside his cameraman Ben Wright, whose father is living with advanced prostate cancer.
Short game specialist Dan Grieve completed a 36-hole challenge with his three children, while television personality Jamie Christian, known as “Giant” from Gladiators, tackled a 72-hole marathon inspired by his uncle’s prostate cancer journey. Jamie has so far raised more than £2,000.
Jamie continues to promote Prostate Cancer UK by competing in The Betfred British Masters Pro-Am at The Belfry, sporting the charity’s “Man of Men” badge and logo on his driver headcover.
Across the country, golfers have taken on extraordinary challenges. Mark Taylor raised £225,000 at Beaconsfield Golf Club, where 72 golfers each completed 100 holes. At West Cornwall Golf Club, PGA professional Nick Brewaeys and friend Ross Lawrance set a new Guinness World Record by completing 184 holes in 21 hours and 45 minutes—three more than the previous record—raising over £5,500.
“This year’s Big Golf Race has been nothing short of phenomenal,” said Seren Evans, Head of Events and Community Fundraising at Prostate Cancer UK. “The determination and creativity of participants have been truly inspiring. Every pound raised brings us closer to better tests, treatments, and ultimately, a cure.”
The challenge invites golfers to play 36, 72, or 100 holes in a single day. Participation has grown rapidly since its inception, and this year’s total represents a £128,000 increase over the same period last year, reflecting both the event’s popularity and the generosity of the golfing community.
Prostate Cancer UK has long leveraged golf to drive awareness and fundraising through initiatives such as The Big Golf Race, Captain’s Charity programmes, and partnerships with golf clubs nationwide. With more than 32,000 golfers involved, the charity continues to make a meaningful impact in the fight against prostate cancer.
Independent research commissioned by the charity shows that 66% of golfers recognize Prostate Cancer UK as actively involved in golf nationwide, while 81% view its presence as highly appropriate. Yet only 52% of golf clubs currently support a charity, despite 77% of golfers knowing someone affected by prostate cancer—a figure rising to 82% among those aged 65 and over.
“One in eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer,” Evans said. “Raising awareness and funds through events like The Big Golf Race is vital to saving lives.”
Beyond fundraising, the event strengthens camaraderie among participants, with 91% valuing the social aspect and 81% appreciating quality time with friends. Over half (55%) said they would consider taking on a challenge in the future, cementing the race as one of golf’s most impactful charity events.
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