Surge of bids expected in final hours of Doddie charity whisky auction

Scottish rugby legend Scott Hastings is expecting to see a spirited conclusion in the next 24 hours to an online auction of rare and unique whisky on behalf of the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation.
The response during these troubled times has been tremendous, says Weir. Picture: contributed.The response during these troubled times has been tremendous, says Weir. Picture: contributed.
The response during these troubled times has been tremendous, says Weir. Picture: contributed.

The former Scotland and Lions player – and chairman of the foundation – believes the run-up to the end of bidding tomorrow will see some serious players moving into the market.

He said: “We’ve had a fabulous response to the auction, made possible by the generosity and kindness of the whisky industry in Scotland.”

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The foundation continues to fund research and drug trials to find a cure for motor neurone disease (MND). It was created by fellow rugby star Doddie Weir, who earned 61 caps for Scotland and in 2017 revealed that he had been diagnosed with MND.

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But Mr Hastings added that as per other charitable causes, 2020 has proved a “troubled” year for fundraising for the foundation through normal channels such as dinners, matches, gatherings and appearances.

He added: “This auction therefore has been one of our biggest ventures since the initial lockdown at the start of the year and it has been great to see the generosity of our supporters coming to the fore once again.

“However, with regards to the closing hours of the auction... I think some of the real connoisseurs, collectors and aficionados have been keeping their powder dry for one final push.

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“While there are some famous titles available, there are also labels from distillers that are no longer in existence, and sought-after brands that, quite simply, hardly ever come to auction. I’ve been unlucky with a few bids myself, but I will be paying close attention [tomorrow] to see if I can pick up a bargain or two.”

Mr Weir thanked those who have raised in excess of £30,000 so far and said the response has been “tremendous” despite the troubled backdrop.

“I just wish I’d been sent a few more samples, just to see what was being sold or what I might buy,” he joked.

“Anyone who has ever been to an auction, be it for cattle or sheep, antiques or cars, knows the real activity happens just before the hammer falls – and I don’t expect it to be any different with Doddie’s Charity Whisky Auction.”

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