Merchistonian Newsletter
June 2025
June has been a month of momentum and milestones for the Merchistonian community As we celebrate the achievements of alumni near and far, we’re also proud to welcome a new cohort of leavers into the Merchistonian fold young men who now join a global network built on friendship, ambition, and shared experience.
This edition is packed with updates that reflect the diversity and dynamism of our community from career highlights and personal triumphs to exciting ventures that continue to uphold the Merchistonian name. Read on to see what your fellow Merchistonians have been up to and join us in welcoming the newest members of our ever-growing network.
Golfing Success
Earlier this month, Merchistonian CameronAdam (MCS 2015-2021) produced a headline-making victory at the St Andrews Links Trophy, delivering a thrilling performance that highlighted both his skill and poise
Partnering his 2023 Scottish Amateur Championship success, Cameron competed against elite international fields at the revered Old Course After rounds of 68, 64, 71, and 68, he finished on 17 under par level with Ireland’s John Doyle forcing a play-off Cameron’s calm precision under pressure paid off as he secured the winning par on the first extra hole, becoming the first Scot to lift the trophy since 2014
Mentored by BobMacIntyre through the Stephen Gallacher Foundation, Cameron has repeatedly proven his mettle. This is his second major St Andrews success he helped Northwestern University clinch the collegiate Links title last October In interviews, Cameron described the win as “awesome,” praising his ability to stay “in the zone” during a long, pressure-packed day and confirming this triumph boosts his chances of selection for the GB&I Walker Cup team.
Beyond the trophy, Cameron continues to inspire younger generations In late June, he was lauded for “continued commitment to
giving back” as an ambassador of the Stephen Gallacher Foundation inspiring young Scots through mentorship and outreach
And it doesn’t stop there – just yesterday Cameron confirmed his spot at this year’s Open, by topping the Amateur Series to qualify For the second year in a row we are excited to see a Merchistonian tee up in the Open, following Luis Masaveu’s success last year
Save the Date
We are pleased to confirm that this year’s Merchistonian Annual Dinner will be held on Friday 7 November 2025 at the Royal Scots Club, Edinburgh
This special occasion offers a valued opportunity for Merchistonians to reconnect, reflect, and celebrate the enduring bonds of our community Further details, including booking information, will be shared in due course
We encourage you to save the date and look forward to welcoming many of you in November
If you’d like to support their challenge, donations can be made via their fundraising page below. Attendance at the afterparty is also warmly welcomed and will help contribute to a cause that means so much to many in our community.
Event Tickets: 7 Hills Challenge Afterparty – Goldenacre, 6pm
Fundraising Page: Support PAPYRUS in Memory of Ben Vessey
We commend Luca and Xander for their initiative and heart, and encourage all Merchistonians to show their support in any way they can
In memory of Scott Roberts
The Memorial Scott Roberts Rugby Tournament took place recently in Cavezzo, Italy an event held in honour of Merchistonian, Scott Roberts (MCS 1969-73). Scott spent many years living in Italy with his wife Eugenia and made a lasting impact on the local rugby community.
The tournament was organised with the help of Eugenia, Scott’s wife, as a heartfelt tribute to his life and enduring passion for rugby Scott sadly passed away suddenly last December, and this event provided a meaningful way to celebrate his legacy
The tournament brought together 80 players and featured three teams: the Leoni Cavezzo Rugby Club, which Scott himself had coached; a team from Modena; and one from Argentina The day was a moving celebration of rugby, camaraderie, and shared memories.
It was a resounding success, filled with emotion, team spirit, and a deep sense of connection both on and off the pitch. The presence of so many who had been touched by Scott’s coaching and friendship made the event all the more meaningful.
Special thanks go to Gabriele Pivetti, President of Leoni Cavezzo Rugby Club, and to all who made the day such a heartfelt tribute. The Merchistonian community joins in recognising this wonderful celebration of Scott’s life and legacy.
In memory of Ben Vessey
This summer, Merchistonians Luca Serafini-Fracassini (MCS 2012-17) and Xander MacKay (MCS 2007-17) will be taking on the Edinburgh 7 Hills Challenge on Saturday 30th August, raising funds in memory of their friend and fellow Merchistonian, Ben Vessey (MCS 2012-17). The challenge supports PAPYRUS, a UK charity dedicated to the prevention of young suicide.
Luca and Xander’s efforts are a moving tribute to Ben, and a powerful reminder of the strength and compassion within the Merchistonian network As well as tackling the iconic 7-hill route across Edinburgh, they are also hosting a post-challenge celebration at Goldenacre at 6pm, with all proceeds from ticket sales going directly to PAPYRUS
Obituaries
We were very saddened to hear of the passing of the following Merchistonians:
Brigadier Roy, E. Ratazzi, CBE 1945-2025
At Merchiston: 1961-1965
Ratazzi, Roy Elliot, [27th May 1948), left 1965; b of IG 1959, gs of AG Thornton 1896; VI, Orch., Choir Prize, Sgt.; RMA Sandhurst, 1966-68, commissioned RCT, Army Staff Coll. as student, (Major) 1981, Directing Staff (Lt.Col.) 1985-87; IHEDN, Paris, 1999-00; Military Attache, Paris; retired as Brigadier, 2003; Relationship Mgr. Polo Ralph Lauren, N. Italy 2003; Dir. Chelsea Pensioners’ Appeal,R. Hosp. Chelsea
Graduation & Prize Giving
Last Saturday marked a significant milestone as we celebrated the graduation of Merchiston’s latest class of leavers. With great pride, we welcome these young men into Merchistonian Club an enduring brotherhood that connects generations through shared experience, values, and lifelong friendship.
As they step forward from their school days into the wider world, these new Merchistonians join a vibrant global network of alumni who continue to support, inspire, and champion each other in every walk of life The transition from pupil to Merchistonian is a moment of both reflection and anticipation a chance to honour the past while looking ahead to exciting futures
We extend our warmest congratulations to the Class of 2025 and encourage all alumni to join us in welcoming them to the community. Here’s to their journey ahead and to the ever-growing strength of the Merchistonian family.
British Empire Medal
We congratulate Merchistonian Jim Hamilton, who has been awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) in the King's Birthday Honours List of June 2025, in recognition of his extraordinary “hands‐on service” to Glasgow’s Maryhill and Ruchill community.
Jim, known affectionately as “Deacon Jim,” has faithfully served the Parish of Maryhill Ruchill Church for 25 years, including organising the wellloved Cadder Gala Day and co‐ordinating the Maryhill Activity Directory, now in its 10th edition His lifelong ministry as a deacon a role he’s held for over 30 years has seen him build bridges across communities, support schools’ rugby, provide pastoral care, and champion those in need
Jim’s roles go far beyond preaching; he has been central to numerous grassroots initiatives, including the Stay and Play project for under‐5s, the 152nd Glasgow Boys’ Brigade, and support for asylum seekers through Maryhill Integration Network. His efforts exemplify the deacon’s mission: to serve, to support, and to bring people together.
Reflecting on his award, Jim humbly dedicated it not just to himself, but to all those who work “quietly behind the scenes as unsung heroes”
The entire Merchistonian community celebrates Jim’s outstanding dedication and service His work echoes the values we hold dear leadership, compassion, humility and his BEM is a testament to the deep and enduring impact one individual can have on others
Please join us in congratulating Jim Hamilton on this superb honour and for representing the Merchistonian spirit so admirably.
Tennis Success
Merchistonian Lachlan Macintosh (MCS 2017-21), Tufts University Class of 2025, has concluded a remarkable collegiate tennis career in the U.S. A former Scotland U18 No. 3 and key player at Merchiston, Lachie crossed the Atlantic four years ago to join the Tufts Jumbos, quickly becoming a reliable and determined presence on and off the court.
Known for his “grinder” playing style, Lachie’s relentless approach helped his team achieve a stellar 23–3 season, culminating in an NCAA semifinal appearance Whether in intense singles battles or as part of a formidable doubles partnership with Derin Acaroglu, Lachie stood out for his consistency, focus, and competitiveness
Off the court, his quiet leadership and dedication left a strong impression on teammates and coaches alike As this chapter closes, Lachie departs with the admiration of the Tufts community and the pride of his fellow Merchistonians. We look forward to seeing where his journey leads next.