Driving for Doddie: Founder of Royal & Awesome to take on 25 rounds of golf in five days for My Name’5 Doddie Foundation
29 May 2025
One man, five days, 25 rounds of golf.
Graeme Smeaton, founder of golf brand Royal & Awesome, is gearing up for an epic endurance test where he will play five full rounds of golf every day for five consecutive days to raise money for My Name’5 Doddie Foundation.
The challenge, from 2-6 June, is inspired by the iconic number 5 jersey worn by Doddie.
The challenge will see Graeme cover 125 miles on foot (almost a marathon a day), hit 2,000+ shots, and survive on less than 25 hours of sleep across the week.
All 25 rounds are being played on East Lothian’s most beloved courses including Gullane, Luffness, Kilspindie and Longniddry.
“These courses are where I fell in love with golf,” said Graeme. “So to take on this challenge here, for a cause as meaningful as My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, feels incredibly special.
“I’m aiming to raise £25,000 but the main goal is to raise awareness of the incredible work the Foundation does to raise vital funds for MND research. This is nothing compared to what people living with MND go through every day. I just want to do my bit – and hopefully inspire donations along the way.”
Graeme will be donning Royal & Awesome’s limited-edition Doddie tartan range throughout the challenge. 15% of each sale from the range goes directly to the Foundation to support MND research.
A rotating cast of supporters and friends - including former Scotland rugby internationals John Barclay, Andy Irvine, and Roger Baird will join Graeme across the week to keep pace and morale high.
Also joining will be Doddie’s son Hamish Weir and friends and family of MND campaigner Scott Stewart, who died from MND in December 2024.
Paul Thompson, Director of Fundraising and Communications at My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, said: “Graeme’s challenge is bold, brilliant, and full of heart – exactly the kind of energy Doddie brought to life. We’re incredibly grateful for his support and can’t wait to see him take on all 25 rounds. He’s doing something extraordinary to help fund vital research and raise awareness of MND.”
Graeme will be sharing the story via his Instagram. Find out more information on Graeme’s JustGiving page here: https://www.justgiving.com/page/graeme-smeaton-2
