Going the distance for men: Mark's 100-hole challenge

When Mark Taylor was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2022, it came as a total shock - not because he had symptoms, but because he didn't.

Thanks to a PSA blood test, his cancer was caught early. And since then, Mark’s turned his experience into powerful action: raising awareness, raising vital funds, and helping other men understand their risk.

"My lucky early diagnosis made me realise the importance of spreading the message to men over 50 that they must go and get tested," Mark says.

Now, he’s taking on his biggest golf challenge yet. On Monday 23 June, Mark will join 35 other golfers at the stunning Beaconsfield Golf Club to take on a feat few would even attempt - 100 holes in a single day.

That’s five-and-a-half rounds of golf, played on foot from 4am to 10pm - covering more than 32 miles and over 70,000 steps. No buggies. No shortcuts. Just one big day, for an even bigger cause.

Mark is taking part to raise money in support of our work. And he's aiming to raise an incredible £100,000.

“My prostate cancer was identified through a PSA blood test,” says Mark.

“I had no symptoms. After an MRI and biopsy, the NHS suggested I was put on active surveillance, which I jumped at rather than any other options which were offered to me. My condition hasn’t changed since, and the NHS have been superb throughout.”

Stepping up to save men's lives

Mark’s journey with The Big Golf Race began last year, when he and a group of close friends took on the 72-hole challenge at Tandridge Golf Club, raising over £48,000 along the way.

It was a long and emotional day, filled with early starts, late finishes and huge generosity from everyone involved. But it left Mark inspired to go even further.

This summer’s event at Beaconsfield is a step up in every sense: more players, more holes and even more ambition.

Mark will be part of a team taking on this incredible challenge, doing it again for the cause that's closest to his heart.

“We’re swinging for those we’ve lost, and those still fighting,” says Mark.

The event has already attracted a host of well-known names, all stepping up to support the cause. Among those joining the challenge or backing it publicly are former rugby internationals Kenny Logan, Craig Chalmers, Lawrence Dallaglio and Rory Dawson, with support from TV personalities like Gabby Logan and Kirsty Gallacher.

Their involvement is helping raise awareness of prostate cancer - and the importance of getting tested early.

“Prostate cancer caught me by surprise - I was lucky, not everyone is," says Kenny.

"That’s why I’m playing 100 holes of golf in a day: to raise £100,000, raise awareness and urge men to get checked. It’ll be tough – but nothing compared to battling cancer unknowingly.”

As well as taking on the physical challenge, the team is also running a silent charity auction, aiming to raise another £100,000. The auction features 100 items and experiences - from rounds at top golf courses to signed sports memorabilia, luxury days out and VIP hospitality packages.

CHECK OUT THE AUCTION

Why Mark's challenge matters: making early diagnosis the norm

Mark knows just how vital early testing can be. His cancer was caught through regular PSA blood tests, even though he had no symptoms. And his early diagnosis gave him the chance to act quickly and stay on top of his health.

Now, he’s channelling that experience into something bigger: a 100-hole challenge, backed by a powerful team of supporters, to help more men get the same chance he did.

By raising money, Mark is helping to fund research, awareness and support that could save lives - and he’s calling on the golf community to get behind the cause.

Will you go the distance on the course this summer?

If you’re inspired by Mark’s story, there’s still time to organise your own golf challenge this summer.

Sign up for The Big Golf Race and take on 36, 72 or 100 holes to help save men’s lives.

SIGN UP TODAY