CHARITY FUNDRAISERS IN THE PINK

GOLFERS of all ages turned out in numbers for the colourful Pinky Col Invitational event at Royal Dornoch.

The annual charity fundraiser – with the emphasis on fun – is held in memory of members Alex Campbell and his nephew Stuart and Saturday saw more than 100 participants turning out in eye-catching pink outfits.

Following the team event held on the Struie Course, with Junior members leading the way shortly after 11am, players congregated at a marquee for post-round entertainment and a bite to eat.

Ingrid Murray, one of the event organisers and husband of Colin “Pinky” Murray, said: “It was another enjoyable event and, with donations still coming in, we will have raised around £6100.

“Many thanks to everyone who supported the Invitational. This year’s selected charities will be chosen after money has come in.”

Last year’s fundraiser generated a record-breaking £5000 for local charities, including The Gift Project supporting the Caithness and Sutherland Women’s Aid (CASWA).

The Pinky Col Invitational was founded by the late Alexander Campbell.

Ingrid explained: “Many of his friends would return to Dornoch for the Highland Gathering every summer and he thought it would be a good idea to have ‘something for the boys to do’ the following day, and in preparation for the Carnegie Shield.

“Sadly we lost Alexander to cancer in 2018 and the event is now held as a memorial to him and his nephew Stuart Campbell, who sadly died in a hillwalking accident in 2021. Both are sorely missed by all who knew them.”

Neil Hampton, general manager at Royal Dornoch, said the club was delighted to give the Pinky Invitational courtesy of the course for the day to enhance their fundraising potential for community groups.

Left: Winner Scott Smith with his celebratory cake | Centre: Captain Gary Bethune (right) joined in the spirit of the event along with David Cooke, a visitor from South Africa, promising Junior Ruaridh Holden, and the youngest competitor Harry Fleming. | Right: Generation game: youngest-player Harry Fleming with the oldest competitor, Billy ‘Strathy’ Mackay.

The winner on the day was Scott Smith (with Alan McEwan and Ruaridh Morrison completing the top three), with the best lady’s score posted by Sharon Macdonald, and best junior Freddie Gruber.

Stuart Innes won nearest the pin, Graeme Bethune posted the longest drive; and Duncan Morrison was hailed best dressed.