Tag: Sport

Under Barker’s Orders – Corgi Derby takes centre stage at Musselburgh Racecourse on Easter Saturday

Mussleburgh Racecourse Easter Saturday 2025

The race distance is only 70 metres but for the packed field taking part in Musselburgh Racecourse’s famous Corgi Derby on Easter Saturday it will take a marathon effort to claim victory.

Now in its fifth year, the hotly-contested event returns on Musselburgh’s opening Flat fixture of the season on 4 April, bringing together 15 dogged rivals in a race that has grown from a one-off Jubilee celebration into an event with genuine international interest.

First staged in 2022 to mark the late Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee and her well-known love of corgis, the race has taken on a life of its own, attracting entries from across the UK.

More than 50 dogs were entered so a ballot was held, but among those lining up are familiar faces including former champions Georgie Rumbles (2022) and Rodney (2023) – returning to try to recapture their titles – while ever-present contenders Toffee and Pippin maintain their record of having competed in every race so far.

Mussleburgh Racecourse Easter Saturday 2025

Last year’s top dog and local hero Juno, will be looking to retain the crown, fresh from a training routine that including chasing down seagulls on nearby Portobello Beach. The race is scheduled for 12.15pm, with the runners gathering beforehand in the racecourse parade ring where the 2026 champion corgi will return for a trophy presentation.

While the corgis may grab the headlines, the day itself offers the highest quality Flat racing with a £300,000-plus card, featuring the Virgin Bet Scottish Sprint Cup, the historic Queen’s Cup and the introduction of a new £80,000 Listed contest – the Virgin Bet Goliath Cup.

Off the track, Musselburgh lives up to its reputation as one of Scotland’s best family day-out venues, with live music between races provided by Banjo Lounge, a wide range of street food and bars, and a lively after-racing party hosted by Forth One’s Garry Spence, ensuring the fun continues after the final race.

For families, the popular Kid’s Clip Clop Zone returns, complete with free fairground rides, face painting and the Easter Bunny who will be handing out free chocolate eggs, while children aged 17 and under are admitted free when accompanied by an adult.

Mussleburgh Racecourse Easter Saturday 2025

Aisling Johnston, Head of Marketing and Business Development, at Musselburgh Racecourse, said: “The famous Corgi Derby has become something of a runaway hit and what started as a bit of fun has grown into a real highlight of the Easter weekend for thousands of our visitors.

“It’s a perfect fun start to what is a high-quality day of racing and it underlines that a day at the races can combine both top-class competitive sport and great entertainment.”

Admission tickets purchased before midnight on 3 April benefit from a £4 discount. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk

Thousands of tickets sold in pre-sale surge for Glasgow round of UCI Cyclo-cross World Cup

  • Huge demand in first ticket phase with rush to see world-class international cyclo-cross in Great Britain
  • General sale now open for this premier UCI round in December. Don’t miss out on tickets! 

After extraordinary demand saw thousands of tickets sold in the pre-sale, tickets are now on general sale at an early bird rate for the UCI Cyclo-cross World Cup round taking place in Glasgow, Scotland on Sunday 13 December 2026. 

As announced last week, international cyclo-cross will return to Great Britain with a round of the 2026-27 UCI Cyclo-cross World Cup, to be hosted at Kelvingrove Park. 

This major sporting spectacle will see the very best cyclo-cross stars arrive in Glasgow for a world-class event. 

The UCI Cyclo-cross World Cup – run by the UCI and Flanders Classics – is the premier series of the UCI Cyclo-cross international calendar, bringing the world’s best riders to a spectacular festival of cycling each winter, attracting thousands of spectators to experience the thrill of fast and furious racing in challenging terrain and across varied obstacles. 

Darren Henry, Managing Director of British Cycling Ventures, said: “It is incredible to see the strong early demand for tickets for this event. Selling thousands of tickets in the pre-sale is phenomenal, and has given the event an early boost, and we expect demand to continue to rise as tickets go on general sale today. 

“This event will be a spectacle not to be missed, and we look forward to seeing people from across the UK and internationally descend on Glasgow this winter for this world-class event.”  

Four-time British champion Cameron Mason, said: “Having a Cyclo-cross World Cup in my home country is career-defining stuff. I am so excited to race against the world’s best riders on home turf and show them what UK cyclo-cross is all about. 

“Seeing tickets are going fast is incredible, and I know Glasgow will deliver an incredible atmosphere, so I’d encourage people to get their tickets as they will not want to miss out. 

“It’ll be a real honour to be the current British champion lining up on the start. I know there’s so much more to gain from an event like the Glasgow World Cup than just performance. I see the support that the cyclo-cross has every weekend, and just how special the sport is. 

“It’s going to be so cool that the people of Scotland get to see it for themselves. It will add another layer to what will hopefully be a really good season next winter.” 

Tickets are now on general sale, with strong demand expected. Fans are encouraged to secure their places early! Get tickets now at an early bird rate!  

Fans can stay up to date with latest news and announcements from the event on Instagram, Facebook and the British Cycling website. 

Maximising the benefits of Tour de France

£1 million boost to deliver lasting legacy for Scotland

A social impact programme will be rolled out to help capture the “once in a generation” benefits of hosting the 2027 Tour de France Grand Départ.

National governing body, Scottish Cycling, will work with local authorities and community organisations to deliver a range of projects, funded by £1 million from the Scottish Government.

They will aim to bring long lasting social benefits across communities by helping tackle inactivity, improving mental wellbeing and increasing participation.

Business Minister Richard Lochhead announced the funding during a visit to Rural and Urban Training Scheme in Penicuik, where young people are already experiencing the positive impact of cycling initiatives.

Mr Lochhead said: “Hosting the opening stage of the 2027 Tour de France Grand Départ is a once in a generation opportunity. It is the biggest free spectator event in the world and will showcase our country to a global audience.

“But it is about more than just a race. This £1 million investment will ensure communities feel the benefits across Scotland, supporting people to become more active, improving wellbeing and helping local areas to thrive long after the race has left.

“The Tour de France is just one of three upcoming major sporting events – along with this summer’s Commonwealth Games and the UEFA EURO 2028 football championships – that will underline Scotland’s status as a global sporting venue.”

Chief Executive of Scottish Cycling Nick Rennie said: “Today is a huge milestone on the journey towards the 2027 Tour de France Grand Depart and underlines the Scottish Government’s commitment to ensuring this is more than just a bike race, but something that positively impacts the people of Scotland.

“We’re very proud the Scottish Government sees us as a trusted delivery partner and will be doing everything we can to get people from all walks of life on their bikes.”

Champion junior cyclist Daisy Wilkinson, who is on the GB Olympic pathway, said: “It’s amazing to be involved today and to see so many young people enjoying cycling.

“I’ve no doubt the Tour de France will inspire many more people to get on a bike too. I’m already so excited for the Tour de France Grand Depart next summer and will be out on the road cheering on riders.”

The Grand Départ will begin in Edinburgh on 2 July 2027 before travelling through Midlothian, the Scottish Borders and Dumfries and Galloway, finishing in Carlisle.

Edinburgh Leisure launches Junior Golf Programme

Edinburgh Leisure continues to strengthen access to multi‑sport opportunities for young people across the capital

As the largest provider of sport and physical activity in Edinburgh, Edinburgh Leisure is continuing to invest in inclusive, high‑quality opportunities for young people with the launch of a brand‑new Junior Golf Instruction Programme.

The new programme further enhances Edinburgh Leisure’s extensive junior coaching offer, which already spans a wide range of sports including Athletics, Badminton, Basketball, Climbing, Dance, Diving, Football, Gymnastics, Judo, Netball, Swimming, Tennis and Trampolining.

The addition of golf reflects Edinburgh Leisure’s ongoing commitment to ensuring children and young people can access and experience a variety of sports across the city, regardless of background or ability.

Delivered at Meadowbank Sports Centre, Edinburgh Leisure’s fast‑growing coaching hub, the Junior Golf Programme will run indoors, making it accessible year‑round and ideal for beginners.

Meadowbank has seen significant demand across multiple junior sports in recent years, and the introduction of golf builds on this momentum, reinforcing the venue’s role as a centre of excellence for youth sport.

Notably, Gymnastics was successfully introduced to Meadowbank in Summer 2025, enabling the programme to expand its capacity and offer even more opportunities for young athletes.

Designed for children aged 7–12, the programme offers a fun, supportive introduction to golf, led by friendly Community Golf Instructors. Two six‑week courses are available:

  • Golf Minis (Ages 7–9): A playful introduction focusing on confidence, coordination and fundamental movement skills.
  • Fairway Flyers (Ages 10–12): Helping older children develop technique, coordination and an early understanding of the game.

Sessions began on 23 February, with Golf Minis running on Mondays from 3.30pm–4.30pm, followed by Fairway Flyers from 4.30pm–5.30pm. With February and March courses fully booked, be sure to follow Edinburgh Leisure social channels for upcoming sessions.

Angela McCowan, Sports Development Manager at Edinburgh Leisure, said: “As a city‑wide provider, our focus is on giving young people the chance to try different sports, find what they enjoy and build confidence through movement.

“The introduction of junior golf at Meadowbank strengthens our multi‑sport offer and helps ensure children across Edinburgh can access high‑quality coaching in a welcoming and inclusive environment.”

For those ready to progress beyond indoor sessions, Edinburgh Leisure also provides access to six golf courses across the city, including Craigentinny, Carrick Knowe, Silverknowes, Portobello, Braid Hills, and the Wee Braids, supporting young players to continue their sporting journey close to home.

Through its expanding junior coaching programme, Edinburgh Leisure remains committed to helping young people be active, confident, and connected, using sport as a gateway to lifelong physical activity across communities throughout Edinburgh.

Further information on Edinburgh Leisure Junior Golf Programme can be found here – Junior Indoor Golf Coaching Edinburgh Leisure.

Spartans’ Douglas Samuel is Scottish League Two Glen’s Manager of the Month January 2026

5000 DAYS IN CHARGE AT AINSLIE PARK

The Spartans manager Douglas Samuel has been named the Scottish League Two Glen’s Manager of the Month for January, capping a remarkable milestone of 5,000 days in charge of the Edinburgh club.

Samuel’s side delivered an impressive run of results during the month to position themselves firmly in the title race, underlining the consistency and progress achieved under his long-term leadership.

The month kicked off with a solid 2-0 victory over Dumbarton, before a commanding 6-0 win over East Kilbride. The club rounded off January with a 3-3 draw against Elgin City, securing seven points from three matches. 

This strong run has seen The Spartans position themselves as promotion contenders, as they continue their push for the top spot.

Colin Matthews, CEO of Glen’s owner the Loch Lomond Group, said: ““Reaching 5,000 days in charge of one club is an extraordinary achievement, and Douglas Samuel has marked it in fitting style with an outstanding month on the pitch.

“The Spartans’ performances in January demonstrated quality, consistency and attacking intent. His leadership and long-term commitment to the club have played a huge role in his success and he is a very worthy recipient of Glen’s Manager of the Month award. Congratulations to Douglas and everyone at Ainslie Park.”

The Spartans FC manager, Douglas Samuel, said: “I’m thrilled that our players’ excellent efforts in January have been recognised.

“This award is recognition for some high-quality performances, and for everyone’s – staff and players – hard work up to this point in the season.”

Congratulations, Douglas!

Scrum-ptious ‘hauf and hauf’ pairings return for Six Nations

EDINBURGH’S rugby fans can enjoy a fresh take on a classic Scottish serve this Six Nations, as two of the city’s leading independent drinks producers expand their collaborative ‘hauf and hauf’ offering.

Following a successful festive launch, Wemyss Family Spirits and Stewart Brewing are rolling out their innovative whisky and beer pairings to an expanded list of pubs across the capital – timed to coincide with the 2026 Six Nations Rugby Championship.

The partnership, which has revived the time-honoured half-and-half tradition, now introduces an exclusive ‘hauf and hauf’ serve to mark the Six Nations, offering fans a great way to back Scotland with a traditional Scottish pairing.

The initiative celebrates not only Scotland’s sporting passion, but also its rich drinks heritage, with the two family-run businesses showcasing their shared commitment to quality, flavour and community.

William Wemyss, Co-Founder of Wemyss Family Spirits, said: “The Six Nations is the perfect moment to bring people together over great food, drink and sport.

“Building on our hauf and hauf collaboration with Stewart Brewing, this partnership is about celebrating Scotland through carefully paired flavours, giving fans an enjoyable and responsible way to mark match days during the Six Nations

“It’s about putting a fun, flavour-led spin on a beloved Scottish ritual, one that encourages people to slow down and savour the experience.”

Fans are encouraged to enjoy a classic Scottish hauf and hauf – pairing a Stewart Brewing beer with a Wemyss Family Spirits whisky – as a simple and sociable way to back Scotland on matchdays.

To get Scottish supporters started, we’ve pulled together our favourite pairings which we think best reflects the character of our national side.

Stewart’s 80/- with Wemyss Spice King

A modern take on a classic Scottish serve. Stewart’s 80/- is one of Scotland’s most recognisable beers, making it a natural choice for fans backing the home side, while Spice King adds warmth and depth for those choosing to enjoy a dram alongside the match.

Edinburgh Black with Wemyss Peat Chimney

A richer, more full-bodied pairing inspired by the capital, home of Scottish Rugby. The smooth roast character of Edinburgh Black complements the gentle smoke of Peat Chimney, offering a robust but balanced option for match days at participating pubs across the city.

The hauf and hauf collaboration is now available at a growing list of pubs, including:

  • Teuchters, William Street
  • Whighams Wine Cellars, Hope Street
  • Athletic Arms (Diggers), Angle Park Terrace
  • O’Connors, Broughton Road
  • Jeremiah’s Taproom, Elm Row
  • Mathers Bar, Queensferry Street
  • Ye Olde Inn, Main Street
  • No. 1 High Street, High Street
  • 56 North, West Crosscauseway
  • The Ensign Ewart, Lawnmarket
  • The Bow Bar, Victoria Street
  • The Black Cat, Rose Street
  • The Cambridge Bar, Young Street

Jo Stewart, Co-founder of Stewart Brewing, said: “We’re passionate about bringing people together in pubs, and there’s no better excuse than the Six Nations.

“By matching some of our most-loved brews with Wemyss Family Spirits’ distinctive malts, we’re creating a uniquely Scottish way to toast each nation, with a dash of humour and a whole lot of flavour.”

The initiative marks a continued commitment by both businesses to support Scotland’s vibrant pub trade, boost independent hospitality and bring heritage drinks traditions to a new generation.

Both Wemyss Family Spirits and Stewart Brewing remain proudly family-run, fiercely independent and dedicated to producing characterful drinks that celebrate craft and community.

With the Calcutta Cup clash against England fast approaching, now is the perfect time to get behind Scotland and show your support. Join fellow fans in Edinburgh pubs, soak up the Murrayfield atmosphere, and enjoy a hauf and hauf ahead of the big match.

The Six Nations ‘hauf and hauf’ serve will be available in participating venues from February 2nd, 2026.

Scottish school unveils elite golf technology 

DP World Tour player returns to open new performance centre

A leading Scottish independent school has opened a state-of-the-art Indoor Golf Centre designed to develop the next generation of elite golfers, with a current DP World Tour player returning to open the facility.

Merchiston Castle School has launched the new centre as part of its expanding Golf Academy, showcasing a clear development pathway from school-level golf through to the professional game.

The opening was marked by a visit from former pupil Cameron Adam, now competing on the DP World Tour, who returned to the school to meet pupils currently coming through the academy. Adam secured his DP World Tour card for the 2026 season after topping the Global Amateur Pathway rankings in 2025.

Huw Jones, Head of Merchiston Castle School, said: “Having Cameron back at the school is hugely important for our pupils. He’s a great ambassador for Merchiston and embodies our values and virtues. He shows, in very real terms, what can grow out of a school based programme that nurtures individuals properly over time.

“Each year, at least one of our golfers progresses to a US college scholarship as part of their development, and for some that becomes a route towards the professional game. This new centre strengthens that pathway, whilst also providing further opportunities to grow the sport at Merchiston.”

The centre features advanced Foresight simulator technology used by elite academies and professional players, supporting year-round training, detailed performance analysis and competitive play regardless of weather or daylight. Pupils can practise on world-famous courses, receive real-time data feedback and integrate simulator sessions into their coaching and academic schedules.

Alongside technical coaching and performance technology, pupils in the Golf Academy also receive support from a specialist golf performance psychologist. The focus is on helping them develop mental skills such as staying calm under pressure, managing nerves, improving focus and building consistency. 

The investment reflects a wider change in how young golfers are developed in Scotland, with schools playing a more active role in long-term player development alongside academic education.

Fraser Hutchison, Director of Golf at Merchiston Castle School, said: “This centre gives our players access to the same type of technology used by professionals and top academies, but in a school environment where learning and development come first.

“It allows us to work with players in far more detail, all year round, and tailor coaching around their individual needs and academic commitments. For young golfers in Scotland, that kind of access and consistency is hugely important.”

Merchiston’s Golf Academy is intentionally small and selective, supporting up to 28 players at any one time. Pupils receive personalised coaching, strength and conditioning support, performance psychology and structured competitive schedules alongside a full academic education. 

Cameron Adam’s return highlights that journey in action. Since leaving Merchiston, he progressed through the US college golf system at Northwestern University, became one of the world’s best amateurs and then secured his DP World Tour card for the 2026 season.

Cameron Adam, said: “Coming back to Merchiston and seeing facilities like this is brilliant. When I was here, we were always looking for ways to train smarter, especially during the winter months.

“Having this level of technology available at school gives young players a real advantage. It helps them understand their game better, practise with purpose and balance golf properly alongside their education.”

To learn more about Merchiston Castle School, please visit:

 https://www.merchiston.co.uk/ 

Musselburgh Racecourse adds Irish accent to season’s premier jumps meeting

The pinnacle of Musselburgh Racecourse’s jumps season takes on a distinctive Irish theme this weekend.

The Bet365 Scottish Cheltenham Trials Weekend over Saturday 31 January and Sunday 1 February will celebrate the spirit and heritage synonymous with the famous Cheltenham Festival staged every March at the iconic racing venue.

With more than £400,000 in prize money over the two days, the East Lothian track’s standout jumps fixture typically attracts the UK and Ireland’s leading trainers, owners and horses to what is now established as the largest Cheltenham Trials weekend in Scotland.

Racegoers can enjoy the infectious sounds of traditional Irish music bands, including Savage Cabbage and The Good Roosters, and spontaneous pop-up Irish dance performances across the racecourse, filling the day with colour, rhythm and the unmistakable energy of the Emerald Isle.

Musselburgh has partnered with famous Edinburgh Irish pub Dropkick Murphy’s to add to the Irish-inspired atmosphere, piper Lewis Saunders will play on the Saturday and Irish dancers will perform. On the opening day there will also be an After Race Party following the final race (4.11pm) with live music providing a fitting finale to round off celebrations.

Racegoers booking admission tickets before midnight on Friday 30 January can save £3 per person on the normal admission price, which is £35 on Saturday and £30 on Sunday.

Saturday’s card is headlined by the prestigious £80,000 bet365 Scottish Champion Handicap Chase and the £50,000 Listed bet365 Scottish Triumph Hurdle Trial, races that regularly unearth future stars bound for glory at the Cheltenham and Aintree spring festivals.

On Sunday, elite jumps racing continues with the bet365 Edinburgh National run over 3 miles 7 furlongs, and which attracts quality stayers being prepared to challenge at the premier spring jumps meetings.

Aisling Johnston, Head of Marketing and Business Development at Musselburgh Racecourse, said: “The road to the Cheltenham and the Grand National Festivals starts here at Musselburgh with our bet365 Scottish Cheltenham Trials weekend.

“With an electric atmosphere, an excellent choice of places to eat and drink, and the opportunity to see the country’s top owners, trainers, jockeys and horses in action, this is a must-attend event for all jumps racing fans.

“This year we are imitating the unique Irish-influenced atmosphere prevalent at the Cheltenham Festival proper, with quality entertainment and by partnering with Dropkick Murphy’s to add to the enjoyment and spectacle of what is one of Scotland’s premier racing events.”

Musselburgh will also welcome students from across Scotland to the Sunday meeting, carrying on the tradition of introducing younger racegoers to the sport.

Following feedback from last year, the raceday experience will be enhanced with additional bars for students, while guests holding regular raceday tickets can enjoy dedicated facilities, including The Rockavon bar and Café 1816.

For more information and to book tickets visit www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk

PICTURES: Alan Rennie

Fans at Edinburgh Rugby 1872 Cup game help raise over £8000 for charity

Charity collection for former Scotland International raises £8,000 at 1872 Cup match  

Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity is delighted to announce that over £8,000 was raised through a charity collection at the 1872 Cup game at Hampden Park last month.  

The incredible amount raised by generous rugby fans who attended the December 20th match was raised in aid of Siobhan’s Legacy of Love, which was established in honour of former Scotland International Siobhan Cattigan.  

The 2025 collection has also surpassed the £7,500 raised for Siobhan’s Legacy of Love through a similar collection in 2024. Money was raised through bucket collections around the stadium, sales of limited edition matchday programmes and Glasgow Warriors flags, as well as through donations made via QR codes found on screen, in the match programme, and across hospitality areas.     

Glasgow Warriors Interim Managing Director Kenny Brown said: “Once again, our supporters showed just how special this club is. 

“To raise over £8,000 for Siobhan’s Legacy of Love at Hampden is an incredible achievement and something everyone connected with Glasgow Warriors can be immensely proud of.  

“The generosity shown on the day is a fitting tribute to Siobhan’s memory, and these funds will make a real difference to children and families supported by the Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity. I’d like to thank every supporter who donated, purchased a programme or flag, and the volunteers who gave up their time to make the collection such a success.” 

“Our heartfelt thanks to Glasgow Warriors for once again championing Siobhan’s Legacy of Love and honouring the life and memory of our beautiful girl,” said Neil and Morven Cattigan, Siobhan’s parents.

“The kind generosity of every single person who contributed ensures that Siobhan’s compassionate spirit and unwavering dedication to helping others shines brightly, as these vital funds go directly towards supporting sick children in Scotland. Thank you all!” 

“We would like to extend our gratitude to the generosity of those who attended the 1872 Cup match last month, and contributed to raising an outstanding £8,000,” added Kirsten Watson, CEO of Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity.

“Thanks to their support, and the tireless commitment and generosity of Siobhan’s friends and family, young patients with complex health conditions will be able to benefit from specialist support that is only available thanks to Siobhan’s Legacy of Love.” 

Founded in 2022 by the friends and family of Siobhan Cattigan, Siobhan’s Legacy of Love honours the life and memory of the Scotland international back-row who proudly earned 19 caps for her country.

Proceeds from the fund have helped children with complex health conditions from across Scotland access hippotherapy, which supports physical and mental health through the sensory and motor stimulation of horse-riding.   

To find out more and donate online, please visit: 

https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/siobhanslegacy