Jay Sigel Invitational celebrates two decades of supporting prostate cancer research

Jay Sigel (center) greets tournament participants
(Daniel Burke Photography)

November 30, 2012

PHILADELPHIA- For the 20th year, The Jay Sigel Invitational brought together Philadelphia-area golfers to raise funds for prostate cancer research. This year’s sold-out Sigel Invitational took place on Monday, October 1 at Aronimink Golf Club in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania with over 170 golfers participating.

In celebration of this two decade milestone, this annual charity event welcomed Wolrd Golf Hall of Fame member Gary Player as its special guest. Player has long been heralded as the embodiment of world class golf. He has won 165 professional tournaments and designed more than 325 courses. Through his foundation he has empowered thousands of underprivileged children with the gift of education. Taken together, these qualities have earned Player global respect and the nickname, the “Black Knight.”

Gary Player speaks at the awards dinner on Oct. 1.

“I’ve traveled extensively during my career and in the process have met many men – some of whom are fellow golfers and friends – who are affected by prostate cancer,” says Player. “This event provides a remarkable opportunity to shed light on this disease and perhaps make a lasting impact on the future of men around the world.”  

“Prostate cancer research is a cause that both Gary and I feel strongly about,” says event host and founder Jay Sigel. “Like many of the men and women who support this event year after year, we’ve watched friends and loved ones battle cancer and have a firsthand understanding for the devastating effects that it can have on individuals and their families. In addition to raising funds for prostate cancer research, we have helped to heighten awareness among our peers and the community about the importance of regular screenings and the ongoing need for new treatments.” 

Funding from The Jay Sigel Invitational supports prostate cancer programs at each stage of the natural history of the disease including diagnosis, treatment and survivorship.  This year’s net proceeds will benefit cancer research at the Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute of the University of Pennsylvania.

With the inclusion of $300,000 in revenue raised from the 2012 event, The Jay Sigel Invitational will have totaled $2.5 million in funds raised for prostate cancer research.

Sigel turned pro on the Champions Tour in 1994.  His career includes 101 top 10 finishes with eight being first place titles.  He has won back-to-back U.S. Amateur titles and served as a two-time playing captain of the U.S. Walker Cup team.  In 2005, Sigel was inducted into the Philadelphia Sports Hall of Fame. He currently serves as president of The First Tee of Greater Philadelphia, a national program designed to teach life-enhancing values to young people through the game of golf.    

For more information about The Jay Sigel Invitational, please visit www.jaysigel.com.