SPACE vs AtkinsRéalis at the Doddie Cup

The third annual Doddie Cup took place on Friday 4 July 2025, bringing together colleagues, clients and friends in support of the My Name'5 Doddie Foundation, which funds vital research to find effective treatments for Motor Neurone Disease and supports those living with it.

This year, SPACE Architects and AtkinsRéalis met at Close House Golf Club, just outside Newcastle, for a day that was about more than just golf. Seventy-six golfers, forming nineteen teams, took to The Filly course in a shotgun start. Though the blue skies of past years were absent, the rain held off, and a steady breeze made the longest drive all the more challenging. From the first tee to the final putt, the energy on the course carried throughout the day.

The day kicked off with breakfast and a welcome from team captains Paul Broadfoot (SPACE) and David Gullane (AtkinsRéalis), who expressed their gratitude to the sponsors whose support made the event possible. After laying out the rules, players purchased their Mulligan balloons and gathered on Close House's iconic bridge for a group photograph to mark the occasion.

All nineteen groups headed out together, each team starting at a different hole across the course. Players tested their accuracy with the nearest the pin, took on the Beat the Pro challenge, and faced the unpredictable Spin the Wheel, where a quick flick of the dial decided which club they had to use for the next shot; often to the amusement of the group. These moments brought plenty of laughter and made each hole an experience in itself.

The teams returned to the clubhouse later that afternoon for a well-earned meal, while Rob Charlton, CEO of Space Group, announced the results. This year, SPACE Architects claimed the win, though a rematch is already in the works, with both teams eagerly anticipating next year's fixture.

An auction and raffle followed, with a highlight being a signed Newcastle United shirt from their recent cup-winning season, which raised £1,000 for the Foundation. Every bid, every raffle ticket and every swing helped take the total raised on the day to over £5,000 for a cause that continues to make a meaningful difference.

We are grateful to AtkinsRéalis for partnering with us this year, and to all our sponsors, including: Rockwool, Dalkia, Elisian, S and B EPS, North Wealth Management, Newcastle United, Altro, Close House Golf Club, Castle, Link MEP Consulting Engineers, Robertson Group and Spanish City.

The Doddie Cup is a reminder that sport can bring people together for something bigger. Each year, this event helps support the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation in funding vital research and care. We look forward to seeing it continue to grow and to our ongoing commitment to a cause that honours Doddie Weir's legacy.