Balmoral 2026

It's 25 years since this outing started back in 2001. There was no outing in the Covid year of 2020 but otherwise we've played every year.

In recent years we've hired a minibus to take us out to Balmoral but we decided to call for volunteer drivers this year instead - and Nigel, Ian D, Brian D and myself were quick to offer. We had 9 golfers plus a still not quite ready Jas making the trip. Nigel did a Costco shop for sandwiches and accessories and I bought the drink (including low/no alcohol beers).

We kept the tradition going of a team photo at the start:

It was pleasing to note the improved maintenance on the Balmoral course - the fairways and the first cut of rough were well  defined, tidy - and fair - although if you did stray you could find yourself in jungle - as Ian D did on this rare occasion behind the green at the 3rd/10th:

Scoring was average at best, with the notable exception of serial winner Brian Lees who had 42 points (playing off 10) - a full 10 points ahead of 2nd placed Harry who pipped Malcolm on countback. Here's the full list of scores and prize-winners:

Gary, as usual, poured the (large) drams for the non-drivers. We had planned a much earlier exit than usual and, although we stretched it a little, we left Balmoral at 10:30 am - way earlier than some of our previous boozy outings.

It was good to see Gary back playing again after a couple of years out injured, and Malcolm, hot-foot from his World Cup adventure, made his first appearance since 2017. We also welcomed debutants Syd and Brian D, taking the total number of "Banchorians" having participated to 23 in all.

Over the years, we have been hosted by a total of 13 Balmoral members. Brian Lees has now taken part 11 times and this year saw him win for a record 5th time. Other Balmoral winners have been Gary (3), Norrie Thain (3), Duncan Stewart (2) and Michael Muir (1) - who went from hero to zero this time.

Banchory winners have been me (3), Malcolm (2), Jas (2) and solo wins for Ian D, Les, Dick and Ken B. Balmoral members have now won 14 times, with Banchorians behind with 11.

Remember the date - the last Monday in June.