By testing your golfing skill, strength and stamina you will be making a huge difference for Cancer Council’s research, prevention and support services. So, now is the time to tee off for a cancer free future.

The 72-hole challenge, The Longest Day, is akin to a half marathon that begins at the crack of dawn and ends at dusk. However, golfers also have the option to take on either The Long Day (36 holes) or The Longer Day (54 holes).

Former PGA Tour professional and Cancer Council Ambassador Paul Gow will be taking on the challenge for the fourth time this year and is passionate about the cause.

“Unfortunately, most of us have been affected by cancer, and I’m no different,” Gow says. “I was first diagnosed with skin cancer about eight years ago, and I’ve since had about 20 different parts of skin cut out. I want people to protect their skin and prevent this from happening."

“So, my involvement with Cancer Council is also about spreading the word to golfers that sun protection really is something everybody needs to take seriously.” – Cancer Council Ambassador and former PGA Tour pro Paul Gow.

One in two Australians will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime. Those taking on the challenge will be doing their part to reduce these statistics.

Starting off as a small fundraiser in Victoria raising just over $4,000, the campaign has grown exponentially and is now a national campaign, with more than 4,500 golfers raising a record-breaking $3.1 million for people impacted by cancer in 2020.

All funds raised go towards Cancer Council’s life-saving cancer research, support services, and prevention programs. The charity provides a number of local services and programs for people affected by cancer across Australia, including emotional support, transport and accommodation services, home help, legal and financial assistance, and more.

“I encourage everyone to have a go at The Longest Day because you get to know yourself a lot better,” Gow said. “72 holes really tests you on the day, and it’s probably helped my golf to this day, to be able to really dig deep and get through the pain barrier of all that walking.

“It’s enjoyable too … spending the full day on the course with just you and your mates. It’s rare you’ll get an opportunity like that.”

WHEN & WHERE IS THE LONGEST DAY BEING PLAYED?

You can take on the challenge any day from October to December. It is an epic day out with friends while making a difference to those impacted by cancer.

You will also have the opportunity to play at an amazing golf course either for free or for a fee if you select to play at one of the supporting clubs (to see the long list of supporting clubs, visit www.longestday.org.au/golfaustralia).

HOW YOU SHOULD PREPARE

The Longest Day will be long, whatever challenge you decide to take on, be it 36, 54 or 72 holes! You could be walking between 20 and 40 kilometres – the latter being almost a marathon.

So, try to get some exercise in beforehand to make sure you’re fighting fit. It also helps to practice playing multiple rounds in the lead-up to the event, with the aim of completing a few rounds in one go. For the day of the challenge, recruit helpers to bring you snacks and water, or a caddy for one of the rounds. Every little bit helps.

From a fundraising perspective, don’t forget to keep sharing your fundraising page. A friendly reminder never hurts and people can donate anytime until 31 January 2022.

HOW YOU CAN GET INVOLVED

Form a team by challenging your mates to 36, 54 or the ultimate, 72 holes, to join you in The Longest Day and register at www.longestday.org.au/golfaustralia

Ask your club or select a registered club and contact them directly to book your tee time for any day in October to December.

Then, spread the word that you’re taking the challenge and start raising funds. Play well, have fun and make a difference for those affected by cancer.