Craig Waddell returns to roots to become Dalmahoy’s new director of golf

The 41-year-old’s appointment has been described by the management at the Kirknewton venue as a “real coup”.

Waddell, who hails from Roslin and was a junior member at Glencorse, has racked up an impressive CV since starting with a part-time job at Braid Hills Golf Centre.

After qualifying as a PGA teaching pro, he had a spell in the UAE, firstly in Abu Dhabi then at Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club.

A stint back home as golf operations and membership manager at The Duke’s in St Andrews coincided with him becoming a dad before being enticed back to the UAE to help launch Trump International in Dubai along with fellow Lothians man Andrew Whitelaw.

Waddell then returned to Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club as director of golf operations but, after four years in the Middle East, he’s happy to be back on home soil.

“Dalmahoy is a course and club I had played a lot as a young amateur and also visited the Solheim Cup as a kid with my father, as well as playing my final round as an amateur on the East Course,” he said.

“The position here is a fantastic challenge for me and its great to be part of a proactive and forward-thinking team as well as a hotel which has such vision and passion for future golf and hospitality.

“Junior golf, female participation and membership are my big passions, and I aim to increase awareness, enjoyment and experience in all areas.”

He replaces Sam Oliver, who has recently joined The Wisley in Surrey. Dalmahoy’s general manager Alistair Kinchin said: “We’re excited to see the path Craig will help take our resort. His vision will help cement our reputation as one of Scotland’s leading leisure and golf destination resorts.”