The Big Golf Race, the charity sector’s biggest golf fundraiser that encourages golfers to go the extra mile and raise funds for Prostate Cancer UK, has appointed PR, marketing & sponsorship agency Sports Impact to attract more players to take up single day challenges and support life-saving research this year.
The agency begins its awareness drive next month by arranging a high-profile launch event designed to kick start the 2024 campaign and enlist the support of the golf community to raise a target figure of £1.7m, with individual and team sponsored challenges involving golfers of all ages.
Since its inception in 2020, golfers across the country have already contributed an impressive £3.4m to critical life-saving research through Prostate Cancer UK’s Big Golf Race, with more than 10,000 challenges undertaken over 36 (Half Marathon), 72 (Marathon) or 100 (Ultra Marathon) holes.
“Golfers have been incredibly generous with their fundraising efforts so far, but prostate cancer sadly still exists in every golf club, and it’s vital that we reach these clubs and golfers across the UK to spread the word about the disease and how they can support us by taking part in The Big Golf Race,” said Seren Evans, Head of Events and Community Fundraising at Prostate Cancer UK.
“By appointing Sports Impact, with its depth of contacts and creative ideas around the launch period and beyond, we’re looking forward to seeing more amazing fundraising efforts in the months ahead to help save men’s lives,” she added.
With more than 52,000 men being diagnosed with prostate cancer every year on average – 144 men every day – The Big Golf Race is an integral part of the fundraising calendar and has become the largest income generator for Prostate Cancer UK and ranks among the UK’s Top-25 annual charitable campaigns. It has also been backed by top names in the sport, such as 2016 Masters champion Danny Willett.
“When you read one in eight men will get prostate cancer in the UK, the importance of this campaign really hits home, so we’re proud to be associated with The Big Golf Race and promote the amazing fundraising efforts to come,” said Adam Smith, Chief Operating Officer at Sports Impact, which was chosen after a competitive pitch process.
“The challenges offer golfers a great opportunity to get out on the course with some mates and raise money for a very worthy cause. I’ve completed the 72-hole challenge myself and while it’s a demanding day, it’s also very rewarding,” he added.
Golfers can sign up using a registration form on The Big Golf Race website and choose a date and course that suits them. On sign-up, participants will receive a branded fundraising pack, including golf balls, tees, pencils and a guide, plus there are opportunities to earn incentive gifts along the way. The top fundraisers will have a chance to win some fantastic golf prizes.