Golf: Alexander dreaming of four in a row

HE'S not hit a single shot but has probably fretted more than the players who have helped Carrickvale lift the Edinburgh Evening News Dispatch Trophy for the last three years.

And, as captain of the club this time around, George Alexander admits it would be the sweetest success of them all if they could make another successful defence in this year's event, being staged in association with Edinburgh Leisure, at the Braids.

Alexander has been a Carrickvale member for more than 40 years and got his first taste of the Dispatch Trophy just over 30 years ago.

He's experienced disappointments in the event, most notably when Carrickvale were disqualified for playing someone who hadn't been a member for more than the stipulated six months.

But, winning the lottery apart, nothing could possibly have made him happier than seeing the club earn a place in the record books as a result of their historic hat-trick.

"My first Dispatch Trophy was 32 years ago – I was 18 at the time – and I have loved the event ever since," said Alexander.

"I think the format and, of course, the Braids make it so special. In one of the early games I played in, I remember the first couple being seven down but we were seven up at the back – things like that can happen in the Dispatch.

"It was a great feeling when the boys lifted the trophy for the first time in 2007 and I certainly never expected we'd be in a position where we are going back up the Braids bidding to win it for the fourth year on the trot."

According to Alexander, whose wife, Babs, has also become a Dispatch Trophy regular in recent years, Carrickvale's recent success has been down to a perfect blend in their two pairings for the double foursome event.

Allyn Dick, who has been crowned as Lothians champion since last year's success, and David Ewen have proved a formidable top couple, with Craig Elliot and Darren Coyle just as tough to beat at the back.

"We've got four quality players in our team and there's no doubt the two pairings play well together. Up front David is a really straight hitter and Allyn is a fighter. At the back, meanwhile, we've got two players who are complete opposites. Darren is quite excitable while Craig is probably the most laid back guy you'll ever come across on a golf course."

Carrickvale launch their latest defence against Rhodes, the 2003 winners, in Saturday's first round and they certainly won't be taking anything for granted.

"It's a tough opening tie and that first match is sometimes the hardest one – once you get past that you're off and running," noted Alexander.

"Looking at the draw, we are probably in the slightly easier half, which is good, and everyone connected with he club is looking forward to being back up at the Braids again.

"I'm the club captain this year and to win the Dispatch Trophy again would make that even better, without a shadow of doubt."