It’s all kicking off on the beach
Callum Kerr at Turnberry The weather was hardly summer but spirits weren’t dampened for the hundreds who flocked to the annual Turnberry Beach Rugby Tournament.
Now in its fifth year, the festivities kicked off Friday night on the sandy shores of the Trump Turnberry Golf Resort, with local DJ Cairns Azbraitis starting the party.
Worries of weather conditions plagued the build- up to the event but, with a marquee and bar providing cover, campers from across Scotland turned out in force.
The rugby side of the festival began early Saturday morning with a Legacy Tournament, giving under- 18s a chance to take to the sand and show off their skills.
The main event of the weekend kicked off later in the afternoon with the adult men’s and women’s tournament.
The women’s tournament ended with Hillhead ladies securing their fifth consecutive TBR title, keeping their impressive undefeated record intact.
The men’s final came to a gruelling climax with representatives of The Bill McLaren Foundation looking for a win over Newton Stewart.
With nothing to split the two sides in regulation time, the match went into sudden death where The Bill McLaren Foundation found the crucial try, edging their opponents 5- 4.
Spectators and players alike were spoilt for day time entertainment.
If the rugby wasn’t exciting enough, music was provided pitch side by DJ Stefan Janik and the Elite Pro Dance Troop stopped by to wow the crowds.
Saturday night played host to a “Rio” themed night, inspired by this summer’s Olympic Games in Brazil.
Live music from The Goodfellows kept the party going for campers to enjoy.
What a mix – the event managed to infuse festival – going with rugby while, at the same time, showing off the west coast of Scotland’s beautiful landscape.
The event was organised through Ayr Rugby Club and predominantly by Andrew Dunlop and Stuart Fenwick and both expressed delight at how successful the tournament was.
Stuart said: “We had a great turnout regardless of the weather conditions.”
The money raised goes towards likeminded charities and gives the organisers a chance to give something back.
Andrew added: “We aim to be a club for the community.
“None of this would happen without the support from our sponsors and in particular JJL Groundwork’s.”
All of those involved in the Turnberry Beach Rugby festival gave a big thanks to land owners Cassillis Estates, and for the co- operation of Helen and Willie Brown, without whom the event would not be possible.