2025-10-14
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The Kincardine News
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Journalist not listed
This year’s Movember Golf Classic raised almost $31,000.
A local cancer survivor continues to champion Movember in support of men’s health.
“I will continue to use my voice to get men to look after their health and break the stigma,” said Kincardine resident Todd Thompson, founder of the Movember Golf Classic. “You don’t have to ‘tough it out’ anymore. It’s okay to not be okay.”
On Sept. 19, 140 Kincardine area golfers of all skill levels gathered at Ainsdale Golf Club to participate in the annual tournament, now in its fifth year.
According to organizers, this year’s event had the biggest turnout yet and was the second highest moneymaker – raising almost $31,000.
“I am doing this because I was on the wrong side of the one in seven statistic and was diagnosed with prostate cancer six years ago, at the age of 45,” said Thompson. “My story has been a happy one so far, as my PSA continues to be .002, meaning I am still cancer free.”
Back in 2020, in the thick of COVID shutdowns, Thompson was stunned when a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test confirmed that he had cancer.
His medical team quickly arranged surgery, removing the cancerous tumour before it could metastasize, and five years later, he remains cancer free.
The positive outcome of his diagnosis prompted Thompson to align himself with the Movember organization, an international not-for-profit dedicated to raising awareness of health issues affecting men, including prostate and testicular cancer, mental health and suicide.
His first fundraising endeavor was quickly arranged for later that same year when he organized a campaign encouraging men to “grow a Mo” and collect pledges of support from the community. That initiative raised $13,000.
The following year, he and his wife Tammy hosted the first Movember Golf Classic, raising more than $10,000 and the event has only gained momentum over the years.
This year’s auction table included 141 prizes donated by local businesses, residents and sports teams, including lots of Toronto Blue Jays memorabilia and tickets. In addition to business sponsors, countless volunteers offered their time to assist with registration, the auction and other duties.
Including proceeds from the 2025 event, Thompson has raised more than $151,000 for Movember and is already planning the 2026 tournament.
Updates will be posted on the tournament website, movembergolfclassic.ca, as details are confirmed.
