Dispatch Trophy set for another exciting edition as organisers build on 2025 success
Hailes excited to be heading back to Braids as holders of historic trophy
Boosted by a hugely-successful staging of the 125th edition last year, the Edinburgh Evening News Dispatch Trophy is gearing up for another exciting week at the Braids.
Hailes, a Kingsknowe team, will be the defending champions on this occasion after claiming the trophy for a third time by beating Murrayfield in a final played in blustery conditions last May.
It was a family affair for Hailes as Steve McCulloch teamed up with his son, Nathan, in the front couple while Danny Crolla and Paul Page joined forces at the back.
Brian McNamara, who was in the first Hailes team to lift the trophy in 1975, was out watching as the Edinburgh Leisure-run tournament concluded, as was Gary Malone, who was in the other winning side along with McCulloch snr in 2015.
“Last year's Dispatch win still stands as one of the proudest achievements I've had in nearly 20 years of golf,” said Crolla. “You quickly realise you're not just playing for yourself up there and that the trophy means so much to all the clubs and players.
“This was made clear by everyone who came out to support us through the week, amongst them, Brian, who was out there 50 years after his first Dispatch win with the Hailes. That was pretty cool being able to share the victory with him.”
Referring to McCulloch snr, he added: “Seve spoke last year about how much it meant to him winning the trophy for a second time and I definitely want to replicate that. I can’t wait to be back at the Braids this year.”
This year’s event will get underway on Saturday, 16 May, when a number of teams are likely to be involved in two matches. The last-16 matches will then be played on Tuesday, 19 May, followed by the quarter-finals on Thursday, 21 May. The semi-finals and final are then scheduled for Saturday, 23 May.
For the second year running, the tournament will be supported by Braid Hills Golf Centre, meaning vouchers will be up for grabs in addition to coveted medals.
The popular facility has undergone some exciting changes since last year, including the opening of a new Leaf & Bean Cafe.
Balanced, a company already established in Edinburgh, is opening a new facility there as well this month, offering physiotherapy, massage and Reformer Pilates classes.
In addition, a renovated American Golf shop is in the pipeline while the range continues to offer top-class practice facilities, as well as coaching from a team that includes Ian Young, Colin Brooks, Paul Malone and Paul McKechnie.
"The Braid Hills Golf Centre is delighted to continue to offer sponsorship for one of the most historic golf tournaments in Scotland,” said director Richard Le Sueur. “We look forward to welcoming the players to the driving range for their pre-match warm up".
The cost to enter a team for this year’s Dispatch Trophy is £90, which is an increase of £5 from last year. The closing date for entries is Thursday, 30 April, with the draw being made on Friday, 1 May.
To enter a team, please click here https://forms.edinburghleisure.co.uk/edinburghleisure/form/DispatchTrohpy2026/formperma/WHwqOHoGPcG…
Alternatively, email Mandy McBain at [email protected]