Loch Lomond greenkeeper's 'mindblowing' Scottish Amateur Triumph

Loch Lomond greenkeeper Greg McLellan produced the week of his golfing life to win the 2026 Scottish Men’s Amateur Championship at Royal Aberdeen.

The 31-year-old defeated Scotland boys’ squad member Aidan Lawson 3&2 in the final to join names including Colin Montgomerie, Stephen Gallacher and Robert MacIntyre on the trophy.

“It means everything to me. I never thought I would ever win it,” said Greg. “It’s mindblowing that my name will be on this trophy forever.”

Greg had already overcome a demanding two-round strokeplay qualification across Royal Aberdeen and neighbouring Murcar Links, where 264 players competed for 64 places in the knockout stages. He qualified as the 26th seed before defeating Jake Johnston, 2024 champion Alexander Farmer, Daniel Aitken and Scotland international Ross Laird. A victory on the 19th hole against Deeside’s Oliver Robertson then secured his place in the final.

Greg edged ahead at the second against Lawson, but his younger opponent responded to lead after seven. A par at the eighth restored parity before Greg moved in front with a birdie at the 13th. Lawson’s lost ball from the 14th tee doubled the advantage and another errant drive at the 16th allowed Greg to complete a memorable victory.

“I played Aidan in the final and he has so much talent. He’s a much better golfer than I will ever be and I look forward to watching his game flourish,“ said Greg. “But sometimes it’s meant to be your week.”

The victory was made even more emotional by the presence of Greg’s family and friends, with his twin brother Stewart on the bag.

“I’m not someone who cries, but I burst into tears before my brother on the 16th and he’s always emotional,” said Greg. “To see so many friends and family there was incredible.”

Greg’s success completed a remarkable hat-trick of national titles for Stirling Golf Club, following Erin Huskie’s Scottish Women’s Amateur victory and Alison Davidson’s Scottish Senior Women’s Open triumph.