Friday, 11 July 2025
MND stories
When Scott Stewart attended last year’s Genesis Scottish Open as Honorary Starter, few could have imagined the profound impact he would have on the tournament, as well as the wider golfing and sporting communities.
Scott, who was diagnosed with motor neuron disease (MND) in 2023, was a scratch golfer and lifelong fan of the sport. He died in December last year, but throughout his diagnosis remained fiercely committed to raising awareness for MND, as well as My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, determined to shine a spotlight on what he and thousands of others face every day.
Now, the Genesis Scottish Open has paid tribute to Scott’s life and legacy by officially naming a stand in his honour. The Scott Stewart Stand opened this week on the 9th hole of the Renaissance Club golf course in North Berwick - a place filled with special memories for the Stewart family.
During this year’s Pro-Am competition on Wednesday 9 July, Scott’s family, including his wife Robyn, gathered to cut the ribbon and open the stand. Cameras captured a poignant moment as Bob MacIntyre, Scotland’s number one golfer, finished his round on the 9th hole and joined the unveiling.
Bob, the world number 14 and 2025 US Open runner up, is a long-term supporter of My Name’5 Doddie Foundation. This year, he has returned to defend his Genesis Scottish Open title with a custom golf bag covered in the unmistakable blue and yellow Doddie Weir tartan, to play what he describes as a small part in raising awareness of the impact of MND: “This has been a cause close to my heart for some time,” said Bob. “I am proud to be a small cog that keeps awareness and fundraising as high as possible.”
Scott embodied the strength, warmth, and resilience that so many in the MND community show every day. His passion for golf never left him, even in the toughest of times. The Scott Stewart Stand is a moving tribute to his memory – a place where his love for the game and his commitment to helping others will be celebrated by fans for years to come.
As the golf tournament unfolds this week, thousands of spectators will pass through the Scott Stewart stand. The Genesis Scottish Open, in partnership with My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, is proud to dedicate this space to Scott - a place for fans to gather, reflect and celebrate the sport and community he loved so much.
As well as being a voice for the MND community, Scott set up Team Rae - named after his and Robyn’s daughter - to raise funds towards a cure for MND through My Name’5 Doddie Foundation. To help support Scott’s legacy, you can donate to the Team Rae JustGiving page here.
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