The world’s most popular golf YouTuber, Rick Shiels, is making an epic golfing pilgrimage across Scotland starting in Prestwick ahead of the historic 150th Open Championship, raising money for Prostate Cancer UK. 

 

Shiels, whose channel boasts over two million followers, is currently walking 150 miles from Prestwick Golf Club – the location of the first Open in 1860 – to St. Andrews’ iconic Old Course, which will host the 2022 tournament next month - all while carrying his trusty golf clubs on his back. 

The six-day march, dubbed ‘Walk 150’, began on Tuesday, 14 June – the second day of Men’s Health Week.

Rick is documenting his journey on his social media channels and will be joined by a host of famous golfing friends as he recounts the history of the legendary tournament before arriving at St. Andrews on Sunday, 19 June. 

Throughout the walk Rick will be raising funds for Prostate Cancer UK; a cause he first supported in May 2019 by hosting the world’s first YouTube Golf Day, which raised more than £10,000 for the leading men’s health charity.

This year, he hopes to raise a minimum of £26,200, to reflect the marathon distance he’ll be walking each day. To donate, go to justgiving.com/rickshielswalk150

Rick said: "The Open is my favourite tournament and I wanted to do something to celebrate its 150th year, so what better way than by walking from where it started all those years ago to where it is now. 

"I’m excited to trek through this great country and explore and celebrate its golfing history, while raising money and awareness for Prostate Cancer UK. 

"Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men and Prostate Cancer UK’s work, especially in golf, is so important in making men more aware of their risk of the disease. It’s a challenge unlike any I’ve undertaken before, but I’m delighted to be playing my part in stopping prostate cancer being a killer."

Nicola Tallett, Director of Fundraising & Supporter Engagement at Prostate Cancer UK said: "Golf has been so influential in spreading the word about prostate cancer, but sadly as it effects one in eight men in the UK, this disease is still present in every golf club.

"So, we need to continue to drive home this serious message and ensure that in every club house there are conversations about prostate cancer.    

"We’re delighted that Rick is supporting us through his walk. His fundraising efforts will go towards life-saving research and supporting men affected by prostate cancer and their families.

"We wish Rick all the best and hope he can put his feet up and enjoy The Open after his epic walk."

To donate, go to justgiving.com/rickshielswalk150, and to find out more about Prostate Cancer UK’s work in golf, go to prostatecanceruk.org/golf.