Prostate Cymru Chairman, Andy Thomas, and Fundraiser of The Year 2023, Ian Booth, are preparing to tee off on an incredible journey to raise vital funds for Prostate Cymru.
On Thursday June 19th, almost the longest day of the year, the pair, together with six other friends and sponsors, will take on a 24-hour golf channel challenge, aiming to inspire others while supporting a cause that has been central to their lives.
The challenge begins in Cornwall at China Fleet Golf Club at 4:30 am, with the team hitting their first shots under the break of dawn.
From there, they will travel across eight counties and eight courses, playing nine holes at each location, before finally concluding at the iconic Pyle and Kenfig Golf Club.
The idea is inspired by Golf’s Channel League, which comprises of all eight counties being visited on the day, a league in which Ian represents Glamorgan at senior level.
Adding a competitive twist to the day, Ian and Andy will be part of two 4-ball teams, facing off against each other as they progress from course to course.
The event has received logistical support from Sinclair Group and Chilli Mint, who are generously sponsoring two vans to transport the players and equipment between courses.
For both Ian and Andy, the 24-hour golf channel challenge is more than just a sporting feat—it’s a deeply personal mission.
Ian is a proud member of Pyle and Kenfig Golf Club and he began his relationship with Prostate Cymru during his tenure as their Centenary Club Captain.
After going to his doctors for “something totally unrelated”, his GP suggested a PSA test which tests the levels of prostate-specific antigen, and it came as a shock when his GP called back to explain he wasn’t happy with the results.
Speaking about his diagnosis Ian said, “They came back to confirm that it was cancer and it was a massive shock because I had no symptoms at all. I didn’t feel poorly, I felt fit and healthy as I played a lot of golf. But I also felt very lucky to have caught it early so it could be treated.”
Ian, inspired by the charity’s work and its commitment to improving prostate health in Wales, decided to spearhead numerous fundraising initiatives including the cross-country golf marathon that raised over £10,000 for Prostate Cymru.
His efforts have since earned him the prestigious title of Fundraiser of the Year, recognising his unwavering dedication to raising awareness and funds for the charity.
Meanwhile, Andy Thomas, the Chairman of Prostate Cymru, has been a driving force behind the charity’s initiatives.
His leadership and hands-on involvement in events like this underscore his passion for ensuring that men across Wales receive the support and education they need regarding prostate health.
The 24-hour golf challenge is more than just a test of endurance, every swing is an opportunity to raise awareness and funds for Prostate Cymru’s vital work.
As Ian and Andy prepare to take on this mammoth task, they hope others will join them—whether by donating, cheering them on, or raising awareness about the importance of prostate health.
For more information on how to support Ian and Andy, or to learn more about their incredible journey, contact [email protected]
Or if you’d like to donate to their JustGiving page click here.