PGA News


Robert Maxfield and Phil Taylor

Taylor scoops PGA’s premier award for charitable work 

PGA Master Professional Phil Taylor has won the Association’s premier award for charitable work for his unwavering dedication to the Battle Back Golf programme.

Taylor, the head PGA Professional at Pachesham Golf Centre in Leatherhead, Surrey, has been raising funds for the programme that offers injured military personnel the chance to receive coaching and access to golf since 2009.

The programme currently supports more than 200 participants who not only can compete regularly, both domestically and internationally, but also take part in the prestigious annual Ryder Cup-style challenge against injured military personnel from the US and Australia.

Thanks to Taylor’s industry connections and the generosity of PING, participants also benefit from custom-fit equipment.

“The Battle Back programme has been the most fulfilling initiative I’ve ever been involved with,” he said. “They feel I do a lot for them, but really, they enhance my life with what I’ve managed

“There are some phenomenal individuals involved who are all so positive and resilient. I’m just grateful to be involved with them in any way.”

Taylor has given his time and expertise completely free of charge as well as tapping into his extensive network of contacts to inspire others in the golf industry to contribute their time, resources, and support to amplify the programme’s reach and impact. 

Furthermore, his continued involvement remains crucial to the success of Battle Back, as he regularly delivers pre-season coaching sessions and attends key events throughout the year.

Taylor’s commitment to charity, however, extends beyond the Battle Back Golf programme. He has spearheaded numerous charitable initiatives at Pachesham with the most notable being the annual CeeTee Trophy.

The event is now entering its 18th year and Taylor explained: “The CeeTee Trophy was an event I inaugurated in my late brother’s memory, Chris Taylor, who was known as ‘CT’. I just felt it was something to remember a life once a year.

“We’ve put many charitable beneficiaries into it and the people who play have a full understanding of its roots. I’m so glad it’s been such a success.”

Taylor’s dedication to these causes has helped raise more than £250,000 for a variety of charitable organisations. His commitment to his local community, as well as the broader golf world, is a testament to his leadership, compassion, and selflessness.

Commenting on the 2024 Toby Sunderland Award, Robert Maxfield, PGA chief executive said: “Meeting all nominees and the winner of the award has been truly inspiring. It highlights the profound difference PGA Members are making on the game through their support of charitable initiatives and other good causes.

“Congratulations to Phil and the team at Pachesham Golf Centre. Your commitment is creating a lasting change, and this award reflects your invaluable contributions.”

 

Bentley taps into personal experience in battle to beat Prostate Cancer

PGA Coach Mark Bentley has responded to being diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2022 by sharing his story and encouraging other men at risk to speak to their doctor.

In addition, Bentley is supporting Prostate Cancer UK’s work with The PGA and in golf more widely.

Having noticed a succession of changes to his body, Bentley, who was 59 at the time, went to his GP and was advised to take a simple blood test (a Prostate Specific Antigen blood test often referred to as the PSA).

“I was waking up multiple times during the night to urinate,” he recalled. “When I did go, I would stand there for ages and not much would come out, with very low pressure. It didn’t feel right, so I went to the doctor for advice. Thankfully, given my age and the symptoms I described, the doctor advised me to have a simple blood test to check my PSA levels.

“The results showed my PSA level was only 0.1 above the upper threshold for my age. Even though it wasn’t drastically high, the combination of my symptoms and the elevated PSA reading prompted my doctor to refer me for an MRI scan. The MRI revealed something suspicious, leading to a biopsy that confirmed the bad news - I had prostate cancer.”

He then underwent a successful prostatectomy and his PSA levels are now undetectable.

“Throughout this experience, the hospital staff, especially the nurses, were incredible,” he added. “They provided exceptional care and support, always there to hold my hand, both literally and figuratively. They reassured me, provided clear explanations, and eased my worries with carefully chosen words. The Prostate Cancer UK information pack that the hospital gave to me was invaluable. It became my bible, providing reliable information and guidance.

“I strongly advise anyone facing a prostate cancer diagnosis to avoid Dr. Google and only rely on reputable sources like the Prostate Cancer UK website. It offers accurate and up-to-date information without the unnecessary scaremongering often found on the internet.

“My experience has opened my eyes to the prevalence of prostate cancer, particularly among men who are unaware they have it. Since my diagnosis, I’ve encountered numerous people who have also been diagnosed, many of whom had no symptoms. This is why regular testing for men most at risk of prostate cancer is so important.”

Bentley is now hoping to spread awareness of his experience to fellow golfers via his work as a specialist putting coach and hopes golf clubs and fellow PGA professionals across the UK support The Big Golf Race in 2025.

He said: “The Big Golf Race is a fantastic initiative by Prostate Cancer UK, and I believe golf clubs can play a significant role in supporting it. PGA Professionals can get involved in a variety of ways; they can donate tee times to encourage golfers to help raise vital funds for research – the PGA Pledge -  and encourage members to form teams and take part. They could also explore other fundraising initiatives such as charity days or tournaments, with the proceeds donated to Prostate Cancer UK.

“Sharing my story will hopefully make this challenge I experienced more powerful and relatable to other men. PGA Professionals who have faced prostate cancer could consider sharing their stories, encourage men at risk to visit the doctor, and inspire others to act.

“This could include information about prostate cancer risk and symptoms, and links to Prostate Cancer UK’s resources. By taking these actions, PGA Professionals can play a vital role in raising awareness about prostate cancer within the golfing community. Their efforts could potentially save lives by promoting early detection and encourage men to prioritise their health.

“My story highlights that early detection is crucial. Don’t wait for symptoms to appear. If you’re over 50, or a man with a family history of prostate cancer, ask your doctor for a PSA test - you’re entitled to it. It could save your life - it definitely saved mine.”