The Official Magazine of the GCSAIl www.gcsai.org l December 2010 Greenside

is There a war breaking out on your turf? Nematodes - The Enemy!

GCSAI & GCSAA Sign Agreement

The Presidents Cup All the Action from Dromoland Castle

Also in This Issue

l The Irish Abroad l Tractor Tyre Profile l Course Feature - Hilton Templepatrick greenside magazine | December 2010 l Irish Grenkeeping Awards l Regional Reports1 l Trade News l The Wonder of Sand Dunes Greenside

www.gcsai.org 2 Greenside

Hampering Contents Irish Greenkeeping Awards 8

Nature on the Golf Course 10

Freedom of The Irish Abroad 12

GCSAI/GCSAA Agreement 16

Expression The Wonder of Sand Dunes 18

ou have just got over the shock of finding out how much your earnings have been The Wheel Deal 20 reduced as a result of the Irish government’s budget. Not only are your personal finances not as good as they used to be, but the club for whom you work, is Nematodes 24 Yfeeling the financial strain as well - their customers will probably not be dipping into their pockets as much as they used Course Feature – to. This will impact on the amount Hilton Templepatrick 30 budgeted for maintaining your course or sports pitch. Because Regional Round up 36 Course Superintendents and Head Groundsmen take pride in their work, Presidents Cup 43 I do worry about the effect of the budget on their morale amongst these GCSAI Charity Day 49 people around the country, as they are trying very hard to maintain their Trade News 54 course to a standard that is acceptable to their club, but, more importantly, to a standard that is acceptable to themselves. I see greenkeepers and groundsmen as artists - some are good but many more have exceptional talents. The course or sports ground where they work is their canvas whereby they can show case their artistic skills to the world, provided the resources are made available to them. Ask any serious groundsman “What means more to you - pride of work or how much money you can earn?” Like many artists, their answer will always be the former. Many groundsmen feel frustrated that they cannot be as creative as they used to be, when times were good, but others are also feeling the mental strain of being pressurised by their club, despite the shortfall in maintenance budgets, to maintain the same. How can you say to a painter “I want you to paint me a beautiful picture full of wonderful colours and tones. I will supply you with all the necessary items that you need - except green paint - my budget doesn’t stretch that far.” A tall order for an artist. Front cover photo by Alan Mahon

Back issues of The views expressed in contributed REMINDER Greenside can now articles are not necessarily the views The deadline for be seen on the expressed by the editor of this publication. Editorial content and photographs receiving advertising GCSAI website: cannot be reproduced without prior and editorial is permission from the editor. www.gcsai.org January 21st 2011

3 greenside magazine | December 2010 News

Dates for your Diary

Rush Christmas Outing - December 17 GCSAI Annual Conference & Sportsturf Yes it’s this time of year again and as you read this snippet, Eddie Ireland - 2, 3 March 2011 Donlon is busy hanging the Christmas decorations, getting ready The GCSAI are delighted to launch Sportsturf Ireland. This event for the annual Rush Christmas outing. It takes place on Dec 17th will include the established GCSAI conference, expanded to with a shotgun start at 11am. The time sheet opens from 8th to 14th include a trade exhibition. Sportsturf Ireland 2011 will be held in December so you need to hurry as only the first 44 names booked Knightsbrook, Trim Co. Meath on 2nd and 3rd of March 2011. This get to play. event will be a show case for all involved in the Sportsturf industry. Contact Eddie on 087 2908199 between 1pm and 1.30pm. There will be educational seminars delivered by international and Irish speakers, including Professor James B Beard. There will be demonstrations and a trade exhibition featuring all the top brands in Harrogate Week - January 18 - 20, 2011 the industry. Booking forms will be sent out in the next few weeks. For more information contact Maria Behan at maria.behan@ calibresupport.ie or phone her on 087 7917789

This takes place from January 18 - 20, 2011 at the Harrogate International Centre, North Yorkshire. Discover what’s new in an ever changing, growing market. If your business is in Turf Management, the Groundscare Industry or Club Facility Manmagement then make it your business to attend Harrogate Week. With innovative product ideas it is your best opportunity to meet all the players in the groundscare industry under one roof. For general enquiries tel. 00441347 833830 or log onto www.harrogateweek.org.uk

GCSAA Show - February 7 - 11, 2011 Knightsbrook Hotel and Golf Club Stamp your Passport to Profitability with the information and innovations you will only find at the 2011 GCSAA Education Conference and the Golf Industry Show in Orlando, Florida, USA. This event, which takes place from 7 - 11 February 2011, is just the beginning of your journey, as you will return home with a wealth of knowledge that will put you well ahead of the competition. Attending the conference and show places you at the forefront of what is happening in the global golf community and provides you with the tips and tools necessary to make the greatest positive impact on your bottom line. When you make plans to attend the 2011 GCSAA Education Conference and the Golf Industry Show, you are setting the course for: • Seminars that provide timely and comprehensive industry information • The chance to interact with experts in your field • Innovative products that cut maintenance costs • Unparalleled product discounts on the show floor • Opportunities for onsite equipment and product comparisons • Sessions that offer solutions to your biggest agronomic and business challenges

Set your course for success in the golf course management industry - find out more at www.gcsaa.org/conference.

www.gcsai.org 4 Education Report

s I write this article, plans for the organisation of the conference/ trade show, which will take place Ain March, in Knightsbrook Golf Hotel and Country Club, are well under way. A lot of hard work by your executive committee has culminated in what will eventually be known as the Golf Industry Show, and the only one that will be dedicated to fine turf managers in Ireland. The renowned Dr James B. Beard, among many others, will be giving talks, and there will be a full ‘trade show’ Patrick O’Byrne (centre) receives his Student of the Year floor, in order to visit the many suppliers presentation from Harold Lawlor and Robert McDermott to our industry. It promises to be a great show, so make sure that you attend. Watch out for more details on our website www.gcsai.org Two motivational days, aimed at deputy superintendents and young greenkeepers, will have taken place, by the time that you read this, so a full report will be in the next issue of Greenside. Bobby Barenbrug/STRI seed trial Open Day was held in Druids Glen GC on the 16th September, with a superb McDermott turnout of GCSAI superintendents and non affiliated groundsmen. The Irish Links Initiative held an annual ‘get together’ in Lahinch Golf Club on the 13th October, and by all Foxrock accounts, it was well supported. Lahinch Club Captain, Eugene Gilligan, welcomed the delegates and outlined Golf Club the agenda for the day. The group was split into three groups before setting out to view the three work stations set up on the links. All in all it proved to be a great success with the links Superintendents. Congratulations to all involved. On the 8th November last I had the privilege of attending the National Botanic Gardens, where the current crop of budding Greenkeepers had their graduation ceremony. I was in attendance to present the Student of the Year trophy, which was won by Patrick O’Byrne from the Island Golf Club. Congratulations to Patrick and I wish him every success in his career. If you would like to contact me please do so: Tel: 086 2627839; 01 2065136 Email [email protected] or [email protected]

5 greenside magazine | December 2010 News

IISS launches Club Playing Surface of the Year Awards volunteers whose dedication and endeavours have long gone unnoticed - until now. We in association with Leinster GAA and Barenbrug hope that the awards will encourage others to get involved in the maintenance of GAA The Irish Institute of Sports Surfaces (IISS) has unveiled a new awards scheme surfaces and raise standards of sports turf to recognise and reward the high standards of groundsmanship achieved by care even higher. Our thanks to the Leinster Ireland’s volunteer GAA groundsmen. Council of the GAA and Barenbrug for their support.” Seamus Howlin, chairman of the Leinster Council of the GAA, adds: “All our players begin their sporting careers with their local club - the heart and soul of the GAA. Good playing conditions are essential for the development of players’ skills and their enjoyment of the game, hence anything that encourages and promotes the development of our pitches is to be supported. Leinster GAA is happy to be associated with the awards - we wish the IISS the very best with the project and also welcome Barenbrug’s involvement.” Neil Pettican, Barenbrug area manager for Ireland, concludes: “I’m delighted Barenbrug is supporting this important initiative. Ireland is a key market for us and we’re looking forward to helping improve standards further by raising awareness of the importance of correct grass seed selection Celebrating the creation of the new Playing Surface of the Year Awards are, from left, Donal in achieving quality surfaces. Best of luck to Kearney (IISS), Seamus Howlin (Chairman Leinster Council GAA), Terence McShea (IISS). everyone entering.”

The Playing Surface of the Year Awards have of people who maintain and manage sports been created in association with the Leinster surfaces in Ireland. Council of the GAA and specialist grass seed Says IISS managing director Donal Kearney breeder Barenbrug by the IISS, a newly- of the scheme: “The Club Playing Surface BIGGA’s Chief formed body dedicated to promoting and of the Year Awards have been created implementing the professional development to highlight the hard work of the GAA Executive to Leave The BIGGA Board is sad A Christmas treat to announce that after For anyone already thinking about what to buy their loved ones for 17 years Christmas, here’s the perfect gift for all John Deere fans, young and old of service alike - the first ever John Deere Chocolate Advent Calendar. its Chief This is a gift that’s sure to cause Executive, lots of excitement John all the way through Pemberton, December, with 24 has given windows revealing notice of his yummy chocolates in intention different Christmas to move shapes. on. John John Pemberton The calendar can first joined be ordered now, with the Association in March 1993 as its limited availability Accountant, moving up to take the reins as while stocks last, from Chief Executive in March 2004. participating John “The BIGGA Board of Directors wishes to Deere dealers - at less thank John for his leadership and dedication than £4 (or its euro to the job over the years which has resulted equivalent), save any in BIGGA significantly increasing in size, arguments over whose turn it is to open the windows, and order one each profile and industry positioning” comments for the whole family! Chairman, Paul Worster. A host of gift ideas for Christmas and other special occasions can be found John will continue in his current position in the latest John Deere Collection catalogue. Free copies are available now until the end of April 2011 and will be from your local John Deere dealer, or visit www.johndeere.co.uk helping the Board with the recruitment of a suitable successor. www.gcsai.org 6 JOIN NOW ON N L A IN C E U

O

Y

www.gcsai.org E Y IN O L U N CA O N NOW JOIN

7 greenside magazine | December 2010 Greenside Irish Greenkeeping Awards

FETAC level 6 students received their greenkeeping certificates at the National Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin.

NFQ Level 7 students (Bachelor of Science in Horticulture) received their degrees at the Institute of Technology Blanchardstown (ITB) on 5th November last, after three years of intensive study. The sixty six successful students, three of whom were from the greenkeeping profession, were presented their awards by Harold Lawlor, Principal, College of Amenity Horticulture, National Botanic Gardens.

he three graduates were Michael Coleman from Faithlegg Golf Club, David Grehan from Castle Golf Club Tand Fergal McDermott of Farnham Estate Golf Club. Colm Dockrell of Teagasc was also in attendence to see his students receive their awards. Dr. Mary Meaney, President of ITB said that this was a very special day for all the students and their families, a day that they will remember for the rest of their lives. However she added that it was a major concern of hers that student fees may be increased in this year’s budget, which, she said, would be detrimental to the future of student higher education. Dr. Meaney suggested that instead of students paying fees, they could, pay back the cost of their education when they get employment on the basis of their qualifications. This could be a form of education tax. This would be a fairer Colm Dockrell (Teagasc), David Grehan (Castle Golf Club), Fergal McDermott (Farnham and more affordable way of contributing Estate), Michael Coleman (Faithlegg Golf Club), Harold Lawlor (Principal, Botanic Gardens). towards their education. She also suggested that, as an incentive to kick starting the On 8th November the twenty nine FETAC the GUI commended the students on their economy, those who qualified and went on to Level 6 greenkeeping students received their achievement and said that their qualification start their own business in Ireland would be Advanced Certificates in Greenkeeping will be a significant advantage to them exempt from paying this tax as they would be at an award ceremony at the National when it comes to finding employment in creating employment, which in itself would Botanic Gardens. Pat O’Dwyer from the the future. “Potential employers will always be bringing money back into the economy. Greenkeeping Trainining Committte with prefer qualified people over those who are www.gcsai.org 8 News

2010 FETAC Advanced Certificate in Greenkeeping Level 6 Students

Dean Brock Ciaran Dunne James O Connor Liam Byrne Stephen Dunne Darren O Reilly Kevin Canavan Peter Harrison Daragh O Sullivan Eamonn Carstairs Derek Hughes Paudie O Sullivan Thomas J Clarke Michael McCabe Alan Reilly Eoin Collins Damien McCartan Eugene Riddell Lucas Damrow Philip McGeady Tom Twardowski Dean Donoghue Keith Murray Aidan Walshe William Doyle James Newe Aidrean Wilmot Stephen Druhan Patrick O Byrne

not” he said. He also pointed out that proper communication and clear instructions are important in the workplace. . Pat Suttle of Teagasc also added his congratulations to the students and gave them hope and encouragement by saying that, despite the economic recession, good times will come. “Do not feel too disheartened. If we all work together, the situation will improve. You only have to look back to 1987 when we were in the same situation and by 1992 Ireland was at the start of an economic boom.” The Student of the Year Award given to Patrick O’Byrne of The Island Golf Club and both Harold Lawlor, Principal, College of Amenity Horticulture, Botanic Gardens and Robert McDermott, Education Officer with the GCSAI, gave presentations to Patrick.

9 greenside magazine | December 2010 Nature on the Golf Course

The Irish Hare

he Irish hare, (Lepus timidus hibernicus) is a sub-species and even shoots from certain trees may play an important part in of the mountain hare (Lepus timidus) and only occurs in their diet. Hares will also venture on to the foreshore to feed on Ireland. Male animals are referred to as jacks, females as does. sea lettuce and other sea weeds. They feed mostly at night resting THaving arrived in these parts as the ice sheets meltedaround10,000 during daylight hours in a scraped, or nibbled hollow or “form”, years ago, Irish hares developed differences to other mountain hare although there are records of hares using rabbit burrows, crevices populations, which have a broad circumpolar distribution. in rock and other shelters for refuge or lie-up sites. The most striking difference is that generally the coat of the Irish Suitable habitat is vital for the survival of the Irish hare, as not hare does not go totally white in winter. Irish hares have only two only do they require a supply of different grasses and plants to eat, moults a year rather than three, and generally stay brown through but also plenty of cover, for example rushes and heather. Freedom the winter months, though they may become pale, or develop white from disturbance also appears to be critical and hares are rarely patches. The tail is often noted as being all white, but there are found near houses or built-up areas. exceptions. Irish hares are different to other Lagomorphs (hares and rabbits) Breeding in Ireland as unlike brown hares (Lepus europaeus) and rabbits Courtship and mating take place from late winter through to early (Oryctolagus cuniculus), they were not introduced by man. summer with the characteristic “mad”, chasing, leaping and boxing behaviour being an aspect of challenges between males, and also Description between males and females with the does rebuffing the advances of The Irish hare is a medium sized plant-eater (herbivore), measuring the jacks. There can be up to three litters of 1 - 4 young (leverets) a up to 50cms long, and weighing between 2.5 - 4 kg. It has a russet year but mortality is high with up to three quarters of the leverets brown coat, long ears with black tips and eyes set high in the head being lost during the first year. Young are hidden by the does which give it a wide field of view. The animal has long powerful back and disperse after one week but will return to this early hiding legs, longer than the fore legs, and Irish hares may reach speeds of up place for up to 3 weeks for further nursing until they are weaned. to 30mph and can jump heights of around 2m. The maximum life expectancy of the Irish hare is 9 years. Hares Speed is the main means of escape, rather than going to cover. The are social animals with groups being generally between 2 and 9. animals are generally quiet, but may scream or growl. Larger groups may be seen, especially during the breeding season in suitable habitat. Herds of well over a hundred hares have been Environment & General Ecology recorded in the past from certain sites. Apart from man and dog, Irish hares feed mainly on a variety of grasses, but, depending there are a range of predators that have an impact on Irish hare on the habitat, sedges, shrubs such as heather, thyme and bilberry populations principally the fox, but also badger, pine marten, stoat, www.gcsai.org 10 Nature on the Golf Course

cat, buzzard, hooded crow, magpie, long-eared owl and at one time Recent surveys commissioned by EHS have shown that the golden eagle. population of Irish Hares in Northern Ireland has fluctuated between 14,000 and 72,000, the most recent estimate is 43,700. Habitats and Distribution It is intended to continue monitoring the population at regular The Irish hare is found from seashore to hill-top, mainly in open intervals. country, in many habitats including: • Unimproved and semi-improved pasture, expanding into areas Threats of intensive farmland Habitat changes • Upland habitats including heather dominated heaths and bogs • Loss of cover (e.g. rushes) and refuge areas (e.g. hedgerows) • Coastal habitats including dunes, coastal stripes and seashore • Conversion from species rich grasslands to ryegrass and clover • Golf courses mixes • Air fields • Increased disturbance especially from high stocking densities and farm machinery Recent research suggests that • Direct grazing competition on hill areas (with sheep) it may be the variety of grasses • Habitat fragmentation within the hare s diet that limit Increased mechanisation disturbs hares and increases mortality its distribution. Hares seem especially among leverets at time of grass cutting/harvest. to avoid areas of improved Increased levels of predation particularly from foxes, crows and grassland dominated by rye magpies especially affecting leverets. grass species though there Over-hunting due to illegal coursing and lamping. are certainly other factors Increased mortality on roads due to increase in traffic volume and contributing to this absence, speed. such as distribution and lack of cover. All of these factors suggest that changes in farming methods © EHSNI and management of the farmed landscape may have an important part to play in both the decline and the future conservation of this For further information contact: species. EHS Education Officer Commonwealth House Population 35 Castle Street Historically the Irish hare was once widespread and common Belfast BT1 1GU throughout Ireland. However there is a growing concern that Tel: (048) 9054 6533 populations are thought to have gone through a substantial decline www.ehsni.gov.uk/education/factsheets.shtml over the past 10 - 20 years.

11 greenside magazine | December 2010 Feature The Irish Abroad Since 2005 my travels have brought me as far as Australia, Hong Kong, Singapore and more recently America, where I took part in the Ohio State Internship Programme where I got a placement on Harbourtown Golf Links, Hilton Head Island, South Carolina.

By Declan O’Hagan

n 2005 two friends and I decided to The second year in Australia went by really get a working holiday visa and go to quick and before I knew it I was home again. Australia to experience While waiting to start work at St. Helens Bay, Ithe culture and sights. There I attended Sportsturf Ireland in the RDS, was plenty of work for me as where I met Wayne Roberts of Elmwood a landscaper, but I decided College in Scotland. I asked him about the to venture out of the cities National Certificate in Greenkeeping which and look into working on they offer every year starting in September. farms. I acquired a job just two It sounded like it was right up my alley so I hours north of Perth with an decided to enrol. In the meantime I returned Agricultural contractor. This to St Helens Bay to work for a second season, was a great experience because Bay Golf Resort, in my home until I started at Elmwood in September I got to operate top of the range county of Wexford, had recently 2008. machinery along with living the appointed a new superintendent Kevin When I completed my NC in greenkeeping life of a true Aussie bloke, in the outback. I Carroll, so I decided to pay him a visit. Kevin I returned to St. Helens Bay in April 2009 ended up living in Australia for two years. showed interest immediately when he saw I for a 3rd season. I had been in contact with While waiting for the second visa to come I had a Diploma in Horticulture and 3 years Mike O’Keeffe of the Ohio State University returned home for a while. landscaping experience, so I started in March programme, while at Elmwood, so before As I didn’t really want to return to of 2006. When the season was finished in the season had finished at St Helens Bay landscaping I decided to look into turfgrass October I returned to Australia and back to I decided to sign up for the programme. management. I had heard that St. Helens my old job as a machinery operator. Mike got me a placement at Harbour Town www.gcsai.org 12 Feature

Golf Links, Hilton Head Island, South H Wright. John (as we know him) has many different to what I was used to back home. It Carolina which would start in the middle of years of experience in the turfgrass industry. took the whole morning and had to be done September. John took over the role of superintendant in to perfection. Tees were moved every day, Harbour Town Golf Links was founded in early 2009, when Gary T Snyder semi retired, signs, bins and rake positions were checked 1969. The architects involved were the much and is now working as an adviser for Seapines and most importantly pins were moved acclaimed and well respected Pete Dye and who are the owners of Harbour Town, Ocean and calculated using a pin sheet. Other the very successful golfer Jack Nicklaus. The Golf Course and Heron Golf Course. morning jobs included mowing greens, tees course had to be open for its first tournament Working for John was a great experience. and approaches with hand mowers; raking in April 1969 which only gave the crew When I first met him he said “if there’s bunkers; blowing paths and fairways for eleven months to construct it. In 2000 the anything you would like to learn about, just leaves and debris; rolling greens and spraying course got a total revamp from tees to greens let me know, and I’ll put you on it”. It was greens if needed. to bunkers, even the drainage and irrigation great to know I had a boss who was always I was lucky enough to arrive just before system was upgraded. willing to teach new methods and skills. John the transition period from warm season to Harbour Town is a par 71 reaching 6973 had a staff of about twenty, five of whom were cool season grass, called “overseeding”. We yards, and every hole is a challenge in itself. interns; Ryan Dehlinger and Doug Burdick, overseeded the Bermuda Tiff sport greens The course is well known on the PGA Johns assistants and the rest were split with Poa trivialis at 12lbs/1000ft2, which was tour which has been coming to town since between full timers and temps and of course followed by topdressing and a liquid fertiliser. 1969. Its postage stamp greens and narrow one mechanic, Dave who kept the place The tees, fairways, approaches and banks fairways are just a few of the challenges running smoothly. were overseeded with Paragon ryegrass at which the professionals have to face. The As a new intern I was shown how to do 400 to 500lbs/acre. The interns were given the superintendent of Harbour Town is Jonathan setup, Harbourtown style. It was much responsibility of doing all the overseeding,

13 greenside magazine | December 2010 Feature

looking good, i.e. top dressed, rolled and fertilizer applications. At Harbour Town we stripe tees, fairways, approaches and greens so they were all cut twice daily the week before the tournament to burn in the lines. I was lucky enough to get the chance to do some spraying while working at Harbour Town. I didn’t really spray greens till after the tournament but I did a lot of spraying on the rough, fairways and tees complexes. For the tournament we applied ammonium sulphate, nitrogen, iron and Primo. The course looked amazing when the tournament finally came around. All the hard work and long hours really paid off in the end. The atmosphere for tournament week was something which I have never experienced before. We were doing 14 to 16 hours daily but every minute of it was enjoyable. I think it was the adrenaline and the praise from players and spectators and, of course, the PGA staff and our own bosses that kept us going. My job for the tournament was course setup in the morning and hand watering greens in the afternoon. It was an honour to which was done with broadcast spreaders. It quickly we had to get the place in tip top be doing course setup for a PGA tournament. was a lot of walking but well worth it in the condition. The weather was against us for I was over the front nine and Luke Roberts end. John decided to hire in a sub contractor most of the winter, it was the coldest one in to do the fairways but you could see the many years and it knocked back progress a difference between the manual work and great deal. But as soon as the weather turned the machine work. When the seed struck it was all hands on deck. We had lots to do you could see that the seed spread with the and little time to do it. Bark mulch and pine broadcast spreaders was much more even straw had to be spread on the beds; bunkers than that spread by machine. had to be topped up and greens needed As the tournament was creeping up on us some TLC to get them firm, up to speed, and

(one of the other interns) was over the back nine. We had the PGA rules guys, the PGA agronomist and our own bosses following after us but we were the ones doing all the work and everything had to be 100%, from the new cup placement to the tidiness of the course. The hand watering was a really precise operation. We had a moisture metre each and we could only water the areas that were below 25% but not too much because they wanted to keep the greens firm. We didn’t get time off during the day because we had to be on standby to blow off greens because the seed pods were falling from the trees onto the greens. We didn’t really mind this because we got to look at golf for free, and every so often a spectator would come and tell us how great the place looked. When the tournament was over there was a great sense of achievement, but at the time it was a bit sad to see all the crowds gone and the bleachers being taken down. Jim Furyk won it in the end by beating Brian Davis in a playoff. Davis called a penalty on himself when he made contact with loose impediment on a greenside hazard on the 18th. www.gcsai.org 14 Feature

After the tournament we were back to our experience and one which is going to stick normal routine for a while, before we started with me for a long time. our Aerification programme. This was done “We learn the In all I could not have asked for a better twice in the year, once in June with 5/8 inch year or a better placement. John Wright and tines spaced at 1 _ inches on greens and tricks of the Harbour Town treated me very well. I learned again in August with 1/2inch tines. For this a great deal in the year I was there, I gained we closed the course for a week each time trade from older great experience in spraying, irrigation, because we aerify everything from Tees to drainage even hand mowing and rolling Green, also known as wall to wall. We got in interns so it gives greens. I even got a chance to volunteer contractors to do the tees and fairways and for the Quail Hollow Championship in we did greens, approaches, banks and rough Charlotte, North Carolina where I cut and ourselves. We also got contractors in to do us a chance to dew whipped fairways. The tournament had drainage work on some of the fairways. It over 100 volunteers plus their own staff of was good to be involved in this because I pass the skills on twenty-five odd. The detail that went into had never seen drainage done before. Since I getting the course prepared was unbelievable. started at Harbour Town I had done a good when the time It doesn’t end there though, due to the bit of irrigation work, so the knowledge that recession in Ireland, along with the time of I gained paid off, because the drainage guys comes.” year, I would be returning, it was proving ended up hitting a few pipes and some heads very difficult to find a job. I decided to look were hit while aerifying so I got to repair the into doing a season in New Zealand and sure damage. John also relies on his interns to fun to go out for a round. One of the workers enough I landed a job at Kauri Cliffs up in solve most of the irrigation problems around on Harbour Town, Ben Frazer invited us to the far north (bay of Islands). Kauri Cliffs is a the course. We learn the tricks of the trade plenty of cook outs (barbecue’s) at his house Par 72 championship course measuring 7119 from older interns so it gives us a chance to which was a great way to experience the local yards. pass the skills on when the time comes. culture. We had Irish bars on the island but I would like to thank John Wright and all The social life while I was in America was the only one we really went to was Murphy’s. his staff, especially old Buddy Ben for making great. There was always something to do Paul the proprietor was actually from New the year a great experience, which really or something to see. I bought a car straight Ross so he was an expert at pulling pints of opened my eyes to what can be achieved away when I moved out there so I was able to Guinness. I decided to take a road trip down when you put in some hard work and effort. move about pretty easily. As we got free golf to Daytona for a weekend where I ended If anyone has any questions about America we tried to get out as much as we could, even up taking a passenger ride experience in a or New Zealand my e-mail is deco_eco@ though I’m not the best golfer it was still great NASCAR for 3 laps. 160 mph was an amazing yahoo.ie

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15 greenside magazine | December 2010 News

GCSAA and GCSAI Announce Signing of Relationship Development Agreement By Paddy Holohan Public Relations Officer GCSAI The aim of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of Ireland has been to promote the profile of the members of the golf course profession both in Ireland and on the international stage.

Signing the GCSAI/GCSAA agreement. Back row left: Mark Kuhns (GCSAA), Sandy Queen (GCSAA), Robert McDermott (GCSAI). Front left: Bob Randquist (GCSAA), Michael Loughran (GCSAI), Jim Fitzroy (GCSAA), Paddy Holohan (GCSAI)

e have used all available platforms to highlight our GCSAI and the GCSAA have realised that the challenges facing educational and career development programmes for Superintendents/Greenkeepers are fundamentally the same on both those people involved in the Irish golf turf industry, and sides of the Atlantic, and can be best met with closer co-operation Wthis has helped enormously in creating a great respect worldwide between the two Associations. for the Irish Superintendent. This desire to work closer together became a reality during the The Golf Course Superintendents Association of America Ryder Cup this year, when representatives from both Associations (GCSAA) has for many years shown great enthusiasm for met and signed a cooperation agreement at Cardiff Golf Club. the endeavours of the GCSAI and in the past few years the www.gcsai.org 16 News

The representatives from the GCSAI were: • Micheal Loughran -President • Bobby McDermott - Educational Officer • Paddy Holohan - Public Relatations Officer The GCSAA was represented by: • Jim Fitzroy - President • Bob Randquist - Vice President • Sandy Queen - Secretary/Treasurer • Mark Kuhns - Immediate Past President

The agreement was signed by both Presidents and afterwards both GCSAI President Michael Loughran makes a presentation to parties competed in a traditional Ryder Cup type match. The aim GCSAA President Jim Fitzroy of the strategic agreement between the GCSAI and the GCSAA is to advance their missions and promote goodwill and co-operation between the Associations. The aims are:

• Enhance the image and professional status of golf course superintendents. • Strengthen the relationship between the two organisations. • Promote services and programmes in accordance with acceptable standards of each organisation. • Collaborate to support activities and programmes to benefit members and the superintendent profession. • Share information and knowledge to further advance the golf course superintendent profession • Promote opportunities for GCSAI and GCSAA to learn from each other and expand value to their respective memberships.

Opportunities for successful collaboration exist in areas such as:

• Annual education conferences and trade shows • Support from industry vendors, sponsors and partners • Professional development and education • Commitment to sustainability • Members products, services and information

We are very excited about this development and feel that the opportunities arising from this agreement will have tremendous Looking to the future benefits for our members. We will now have the opportunity to avail of the expertise of the worlds largest Superintendents association has, and use it in the development of the GCSAI to best meet the needs of its members It will also give each individual GCSAI member access to the member’s area of the GCSAA web site, avail of web casts, join educational courses at reduced rates, and also be completely up to date with what is happening in their industry internationally. It will give GCSAI members the chance to interact with GCSAA members on a one to one basis. The potential opportunities for all members interested in promoting their profession is great, and is there to be availed of by one and all. This, I believe, to be a very good development for the GCSAI and in these challenging times it will help greatly in assisting the Golf Course Superintends Association of Ireland to best represent its members.

17 greenside magazine | December 2010 Greenside The Wonder of Sand Dunes By Charlotte Durkin, Sand Dune & Shingle Network A sand dune system is a fantastic example of the process of primary succession. Primary succession on Irish Dunes takes place on glacial material deposited on land and the continental shelf between 15,000 and 20,000 years ago. This was re-worked by river and wave action and dunes actually began forming around 6,000 years ago.

here is an some organic matter which aids the water element of both holding capacity of the substrate and allows space and time other plants such as Sea Holly and Sea Spurge Tsuch that the system to colonise. If conditions remain stable here, is seen to change mosses and other plants such as Sand Sedge, spatially and temporally, Red Fescue and Creeping Dewberry will progressing toward the fill in the gaps in the sand surface creating climax community. The semi-fixed dunes. (The Raven, Co. Wexford/ oldest dunes in a system which is accreting, Drogheda, Co. Louth/associated with i.e. building outward, will be the furthest estuaries). from the sea, having begun at the strand line Further landward, conditions improve and developed over time. There are many with more organic matter, less salt and some Embryo dunes variables which control how quickly the shelter from weather, however, relatively dune system undergoes succession and what which can successfully colonise here, Prickly speaking the habitat is still stressful for climax vegetation is reached. Climate, the Saltwort, Sea Rocket, Sand Couch and Lyme vegetation. When vegetation covers most or grazing regime, hydrology, how the system is Grass among them. These form miniature all of the substrate the dunes are said to be used by humans and geographical location all dunes as the plant grows above the sand line fixed. This stage is often what conservation influence succession. and encourages more deposition. (Ballyness, management seeks to maintain, a species At the start of this ‘life-cycle’, sand dunes Co. Donegal/Streedagh, Co.Sligo/Inch, rich grassland with many rare plants. In a begin as embryo dunes which form where Co.Kerry). way, this target community which is achieved the wind transports sand up the beach and As the dunes grow upwards slowly, they by grazing and careful management, is the sand encounters small obstacles and are out of reach of all but the highest tides like freezing the successional process and stacks up against their seaward side. These and are slightly more hospitable to other maintaining an ‘ideal’ community. This obstacles could be anything from shells and plants such as the major dune building grass may seem unnatural but the nature of sand seaweed to rubbish such as plastic or food. Marram. These are no longer embryo dunes dune systems today means that scrub and This is why mechanical beach cleansing can but mobile dunes or white/yellow dunes. woodland, including invasive species are be counter-productive in areas where dunes There is much bare sand and movement in prone to take over and preclude the most are accreting. The environment is naturally response to wind which in turn encourages biodiverse stages of succession. Climate inhospitable being salty, dry and lacking further dune building processes. The Marram change gives a longer growing season, nutrients. There are only a few species ameliorates growing conditions by adding atmospheric nitrogen input artificially www.gcsai.org 18 Greenside

Marram on mobile dunes.

Strand line colonisers.

Blowouts on fixed dunes

enriches the soil and invasive species out- are an entirely natural phenomenon in the compete niche-dwelling endangered plants succession process, often caused by grazing such as the Bee Orchid, an endangered or extreme weather conditions. The sand species on the Irish Red List. These changes dune system is capable of repairing these promote the development of rank grasses and blow outs; vegetation such as Sand Sedge scrubland whose thick cover makes blow outs literally sews the surface up sending rhizomes unlikely, diminishing the dynamic nature of and roots sideways under the surface. the dunes. (Rossbehy, Co. Kerry/Tramore, Human influence in the form of increased Co. Waterford). visitor movements, vehicles or tourism In the past, this dynamic nature would infrastructure can cause an excessive number have allowed dunes to undergo periodic of blow outs or reduce the system’s ability disturbances such as blow outs which to self regulate and repair itself. (Inch, Co. arrest the succession to scrub. In their Kerry/Ballyness, Co. Donegal). most natural state, dunes can support each Blow outs often scour the sand surface distinct successional stage thus protecting right down to the summer water table biodiversity. The changes mentioned above, Marsh Helleborine meaning wet dune valleys in between dune often induced by humans, mean that we are ridges appear during winter and spring and no longer dealing with a natural system, as Creeping Willow, Hawthorn and Dog Rose are referred to as dune slacks. Here, highly therefore efforts should be concentrated on would be expected to appear where shelter specialised vegetation develops, tolerant keeping scrub at bay and creating fixed dune and nutrients increase. The introduced Sea to water stress and lack of nutrients. Rare grassland, with a short sward, to preserve Buckthorn scrub is also common in this stage orchids such as Marsh Helleborine, also on endangered species for the future, when and at other stages can be a problem. At the the Irish Red List thrive here along with the conditions may be different. most landward edge where the dunes are natterjack toad but as with dune grassland, In areas where the substrate is acidic or oldest, scrub develops into a mixed woodland scrub invasion is a problem which can be precipitation leaches base rich ions from the including oak and birch which represent the managed through grazing, mowing and turf substrate, a community similar to heathland climax vegetation - deciduous woodland. removal. (Ballymaclary and Magilligan, Co. vegetation can develop at this stage which Blow outs can develop in semi fixed Derry). is known as dune heath. Despite efforts to or fixed dunes where vegetation cover has Text in bold after paragraphs denotes eliminate scrub from various stages, it is of been lost or reduced allowing wind to once good sites for observing each particular course also a natural stage and species such again scour the sand surface. Blow outs successional stage.

19 greenside magazine | December 2010 Greenside

The wheel deal! By Jane Carley

They’re black, round and have a hole in the middle, right? Wrong. Jane Carley discovers that there is more to tyres than meets the eye - particularly for use on delicate turf.

ccording to turf tyre specialist travel in wetter conditions, and thus gain a Trelleborg, low ground pressure tyres longer working season without damaging were first developed in response to the surface or creating ruts that alter Ademand from Scandinavian forestry contrac- its playability. However, there are other tors for a way of maintaining traction on challenges for tyres used in modern turfcare their machines without damaging the surface - the need to travel at higher speeds on hard root structure of the trees. roads, and to carry increased loads as tractors Tyres needed to withstand passing over and implements get larger. ground littered with rocks and stumps The soft rubber compounds, which were without punctures causing downtime. Sound developed to tread gently on the non-abrasive familiar? The tyre industry came up with grass surfaces, may not be tough enough for designs of 600 and 700mm tread width, the job, and manufacturers are increasingly allowing lower inflation pressures to be turning to more wear resistant materials. used, with rounded shoulders to prevent Over the last ten years, the size of grass surface damage and a tread pattern capable of tractors has risen significantly in weight and transmitting the required power. and its qualities have been appreciated by power, particularly in the local authority Today, the Scandinavian timber industry farmers and, more recently, turf managers. markets, explains Trelleborg’s Technical runs almost exclusively on this type of tyre Its benefits on turf are the ability to Support Manager, Jon McGott.

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“We have a range of garden tractor wide, low ground pressure tyres which have a soft compound rubber, and a light and flexible carcase. This was developed twenty years ago, but is on the verge of being redundant. With the larger tractors now being used, there is The the potential to fit higher capacity loaders, or tow bigger chippers etc., so our wide Twin wheel deal! Implement range, originally developed for agricultural machinery is more appropriate because of its greater load capability, higher speed rating and more suitable, harder rubber compound for roadwork.” Totrax supplies specialist tyres and wheels to a number of industries, and product manager, Dave Raynes, explains that groundcare tyres are specified on a decidedly bespoke basis. “We take the gear ratio of the vehicle in question, the desired width and footprint “These are specialist tyres for contractors, than the ELS equivalent, as Alan explains. and then match the data with a tyre from one groundsmen and turf growers who need “A set of ELS tyres can come to £5,500 but, of a number of manufacturers. This may be to use large tractors on turf for maximum if the tractor is used for more general duties, the American brand, Carlisle, or a Far East productivity - they are used at Arsenal FC’s TRI 2 versions can be supplied for £3,000. make. The ideal combination for the larger training ground for example,” explains Alan. However, contractors tell us that specifying machines, that we are increasingly seeing in However, local authorities may find that the right tyres can be the key to winning the the industry, has a large surface contact area they need a harder wearing tyre for travel tender, so money is not always the issue.” and rounded shoulders to avoid scuffing. Also of radial construction, Michelin’s However, the footprint of the tyre can be CargoXbibs are extensively used for cutting restricted by the application - in a football “These are specialist in parks and recreation grounds, golf courses stadium for example, access to the pitch may and by turf growers, who use them for be via a narrow entrance, which can limit the tyres for contractors, drilling, treatments and cutting the new turf. width of tyres used.” groundsmen and turf Spokesman Paul Cordle points out: “We Nordic Tyres is the UK importer for the don’t specifically make tyres for grasscare. Finnish Nokian brand, which features radial growers who need In my experience, most of the proprietary tyres designed to offer the flat footprint products are of cross ply construction, which required for turf. to use large tractors suffer from punctures and heat build up at “Tyres for higher horsepower tractors tend on turf for maximum current road speeds. The CargoXbib can put to be developed for agriculture rather than down a flat footprint, which significantly groundcare, so it is a matter of taking their productivity - they reduces damage to the turf.” are used at Arsenal FC’s training ground for example,”

between work sites, and may also find it difficult to justify the extra cost of special rims required for the ELS. “The TRI 2 tyre gives a half way house,” suggests Alan. “It is kind to turf, but more best qualities and matching them to the natural rubber compound in the construction required application,” explains the company’s means that it has a longer life even than Alan Lindsay. “Many flotation tyres are of an agricultural tyre. Its radial construction cross ply construction with the tread and also makes for a comfortable drive at road Other features of this tyre include a large sidewall the same thickness. This gives a speeds.” block tread pattern and rounded shoulders to ‘dome shaped’ footprint which can cause A further benefit for those looking to get avoid scuffing on turns. It can be run at low rutting and compaction. We use radial tyres year round use from their tractors comes ground pressures and, due to its agricultural which have a radial band around the tread from the tyre’s Nordic origin. heritage, the range of sizes and carrying and a separate carcass, allowing it to be as “These tyres were developed to run in capacities are more than adequate for thin as necessary and produce the desired flat severe conditions, and local authorities have groundcare needs. footprint.” reported to us that they coped superbly last Nokian’s ELS range is described as a true winter when used for snow clearing and The specialist dealer’s view flotation tyre, with a shallow tread and wide gritting,” Alan reveals. Choosing turf tyres for a specific task can cross section to spread the weight of the Cost conscious purchasers may also note be a complex decision, according to Andy tractor. that the TRI 2 is also considerably cheaper Hipkin of leading supplier Fieldens.

21 greenside magazine | December 2010 Greenside

“Whilst small tyres for compact tractors are relatively straightforward, as horsepower increases, many factors have to be taken into consideration. These include the amount of roadwork to be carried out, the nature of the turf itself and the load the tyre has to carry. Some purchasers need tyres to fulfil more than one role, such as golf course contractors who use the same tractor for construction and for the ongoing maintenance. Every application and every tractor is different and, therefore, it is best to contact a tyre specialist.” Some machinery manufacturers, including John Deere and New Holland, offer a choice of tyres at the time of purchase, but many prefer to leave it to the customer’s local dealer. And, whilst some of the agricultural tyre manufacturers have turf models in their range, Andy suggests that there is more choice from specialist suppliers including Trelleborg, Nokian and Titan. “The most popular tyres we sell are from Titan, and many of the turf tyres supplied as standard with new machinery are sourced from this company,” says Andy. “They offer two basic types of turf tyre. The Torc Trac for the rear is based on the old diamond tread pattern, but is more of a block pattern these days, putting an increased percentage of the tyre’s surface area on the turf. At the front is the Multi Trac which is, essentially, an overgrown garden tractor tyre. They are New Holland tractor on torc trac and multi simple designs but have been successful for Feeling flat? trac tyres football, golf and a range of other sports.” Punctures are less of a problem these days, notably since a lot of tyres are tubeless designs less than the equivalent filled tyre. A further which resist punctures. However, the best way advantage, according to James, is that they are to avoid punctures is to make sure that the tyre ‘green’. is suitable for its application. Customers who “Polyurethane can be landfilled, or reground try to cut corners and use the wrong tyre tend and re-used in other products, avoiding the to spend more on puncture repairs. disposal issues associated with rubber tyres,” Polyeurethane tyres are another option, and he explains. come in particularly handy for machines that Punctures can be an issue for construction are exposed to rougher conditions, such as contractors running on flinty soils, particularly commercial mowers or trailed implements. if they are using low ground pressure tyres on Official UK distributor for the Amerityre a machine which will also be deployed for the John Deere’s Henry Bredin suggests that, brand, Puncture Proof Tyres, James Bowett, maintenance of the new turf. However, Dave while the company offers a choice of turf outlines the advantages of this type of tyre. Raynes of Totrax points out that most of the tyres on its groundcare tractors, the local “These are not filled tyres, but made of 100% modern flotation tyres used on larger tractors dealer is often able to help with more polyeurethane, so offer a lighter tread on turf, have ply ratings of 12/15, which can help avoid specialist requests. eliminating the downtime associated with punctures. “We have ongoing agreements with mending punctures and checking inflation “But where they are an issue, tyres can be some of the leading racehorse trainers pressures. As the height of cut on this type filled with OKO sealant, which is forced into and racecourses, and dealers work closely of mower is usually set on the wheels, using the hole in the event of a puncture, blocking it with them to source the ideal tyre for their a solid tyre also keeps the finish consistent up and preventing deflation. Alternatively, the needs,” he explains. across the working width.” entire chamber of vulnerable tyres can be filled “Although the tyres need to carry loads, Fitting does require a special tool, which and the tyre cured, but this does add weight, the temptation to use wider and wider tyres can be purchased for larger workshops, or so is not suitable for all machines. We are should be avoided as that just flattens a tyres can be fitted by the company’s network looking at lighter solutions for sealing tyres in larger area of grass. The tyres also need to of dealers. A range of tread patterns and tyre the future” says Dave Raynes. be versatile too, as the tractors are used for sizes is available and James comments that the a range of jobs, from verti-draining and choice is expanding all the time. Prices are said Greenside would like to thank Pitchcare mowing to towing irrigators,” he adds. to compare well with a pneumatic tyre and are Magazine for the use off this article www.gcsai.org 22 News

Crowborough Beacon Golf Medal 1896 I was visiting a friend of mine recently, who is in the middle of researching his family history. As we were chatting over a cup of coffee, he produced a plastic bag and emptied it out onto the table. Among the contents were some medals, one of which caught my attention.

t was dated 1896, followed by the after the year), and had finalist in the New Zealand Open Tennis number 7. and under the date was been won by Winifred Championships in 1896. Winifred was the name W. M. Langridge. Mary Langridge. Further also an accomplished hockey player, IInscribed on the other side was reading revealed that and played on the English Ladies ‘Crowborough Beacon Golf G.T. Langridge, my Hockey Team when it played its first Club.’ I asked my friend what friend’s great uncle, international match in 1896 in Dublin, the medal commemorated and he and his grandmother’s against the Irish Ladies Hockey Team. said he had no idea, except that the brother, was one of This was how she came to meet her name on the medal was that of his the founder members of future husband, an Irish merchant, who grandmother. Crowborough Beacon Golf was a brother of one of the players on the The following day he Club in 1895. Irish team. They were married in 1904, phoned me to say that his Curiosity got the and in 1916 her husband inherited a farm wife had looked up the club better of me and I asked in Co Wexford, where the couple moved website, and found extracts “How did an English to and settled down. Winifred Mary from a book called The Life monthly golf medal Langridge died in 1959 aged 86. and Times of Crowborough end up in a farmhouse Crowborough Beacon Golf Club, which Beacon Golf Club which in Co. Wexford?” It is located in Kent near Gatwick Airport had been published in 1995 transpired that Winifred is still a thriving club. It is remarkable to celebrate the one hundreth Mary Langridge was an how this little medal, which turned up in anniversary of the club. From exceptional sportswoman a country farmhouse in Co Wexford, over these extracts she discovered that the (1896 was an extremely intensive a hundred years later, was instrumental first lady’s monthly competition that and exhausting year for her). Not in my friend finding out more about his was run by the club, took place in July only was she a keen golfer but she family history. 1896 (which explains the number 7 also excelled in tennis having been a Alan Mahon

23 greenside magazine | December 2010 Feature AFBI’s calls a ‘Turf War’ for Invasive Root Nematodes Throughout the turf based leisure industry a new war is breaking out. And the enemy is the invasive and destructive parasitic root-nematode, which threatens our love of grass based sports. By Hilary Knight, Hilary Knight Communications & Dr. Colin Fleming Principal Scientific Officer, Applied Plant Science Division, Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI), Belfast.

Dr Colin Fleming, principal scientist AFBI and Sean Reilly, Head Greenskeeper Lough Erne Resort examine greens at the Championship course for nemotode damage. ulti-million pound businesses at methods to manage nematode outbreaks, their roots. The heads of plant feeding golf courses, football and rugby advising key sports facilities on how to nematodes contain a hollow spear or stylet stadiums and racecourses have a control potential damage to expensive and with which they pierce root cell walls and Mlot to be concerned about. There is increasing vital playing surfaces. ingest the cell contents, causing the plant recognition that within a few months, root Dr. Colin Fleming, lead scientist from roots to die.” systems of hallowed turf can be destroyed the Applied Plant Science Division with “Although nematodes have been about for as the turf becomes thinned, unstable and AFBI outlined the problem. “It’s a fast some time, several key changes in modern more importantly unplayable. It’s potentially growing problem for our sports grounds. We turf grass construction and maintenance have a costly commercial nightmare as pitches and estimate that 90% of all new soccer and golf encouraged their spread and exacerbated greens have to be re-laid. courses with sand based constructions are the problem creating a distinctive pattern of Fortunately, there is a new and potent experiencing significant nematode damage. destruction of grass root systems.” weapon in this recent ‘Turf War’. Lead Plant parasitic nematodes are microscopic “For golf courses and sports stadiums, scientists at the Belfast based Agri-Food and roundworms (adults are 0.5-3mm long) with the more recent move to sand-based Biosciences Institute (AFBI), are examining most of the 4100 described species living in construction to help with drainage and the problem and are currently studying new the soil, where they feed on plants especially playability, creates a perfect environment for www.gcsai.org 24 Feature

One of the beautiful lakeside Championship courses at Lough Erne Resort. “At present our research shows that this is a world wide problem with no simple cure. Once you have plant parasitic nematodes in the soil base, it is almost impossible to eradicate them. “ nemotodes and so has also increased their levels in the soil base.” “More and more of our well-known sports facilities are beginning to show evidence of root damage. An affected turf typically displays reduced vigour, wilts easily in dry conditions, responds slowly to nutrient application, becomes stunted and chlorotic and may eventually die. Ground management staff are becoming more aware of the issue where previously the condition was perhaps mistaken for a fungal infection, or ‘yellow’ or ‘takeall’ patches” “The problem is certainly being made worse by climate change as milder winters have allowed Nematode levels to increase and hatching numbers of the juvenile worms are both higher and are occurring earlier in the season.” “The commercial implications of this damage, have been seen this autumn at a Thinning turf caused by nemotode damage allows darker soil to be visible in the circular patches leading UK (Chepstow) racecourse who have on the greens. had to cancel the end of their Flat Racing season due to turf instability as a result of to analyse soil samples to monitor their own eradicate them. Research, working with nematode damage. This created a potential courses.” a number of forward thinking turf-based hazard to the expensive racehorses that could “At present our research shows that this is sports facilities worldwide, is identifying best catch a foot on the damaged turf. Since this a world wide problem with no simple cure. practice methods of managing the problem, story came to light we have been contacted Once you have plant parasitic nematodes restricting the levels of nematodes in the by a number of other racecourses in the UK in the soil base, it is almost impossible to soil and so reducing potential damage. We

25 greenside magazine | December 2010 Feature

“We first noticed problem patches on our greens about two years after they were constructed ...”

The darker patches show where turf has thinned as a result of nemotode root damage. are then able to offer advice to these sports deteriorate and problems would develop. facilities on the best strategies to manage the Our championship course here at Lough problem, backed up by regular soil testing Erne Resort has a sand based construction to identify times of high level nematode which allows the course to remain in hatching and grass maintenance.” play throughout the year and this makes “We are also carrying out research into business sense. However it does also place the commercial use of a number of natural more pressure on the playing surfaces compounds that are showing huge potential and especially the greens, where the turf in treating at “risk areas” during hatching can become more stressed and the native periods, thus reducing nematodes to safer nematode problem can become more of an levels. Several of these environmentally issue if not treated.” safe compounds are showing tremendous “Additionally, on championship course golf promise in the ongoing fight against this greens, the pressure from players is on to cut commercially difficult problem.” the sward as short as possible to increase the “The turf based leisure industry is looking speed of the ball when putting, but this in closely at this new technology as it seeks itself is putting more stress on the turf which environmentally sound technologies that is allowing the problem to multiply.” are easy to use by ground staff, reduce levels “We first noticed problem patches on of nematode numbers, improve turf quality our greens about two years after they were by keeping root development healthy and constructed in 2006, and have been working ultimately save the huge sums of money it with AFBI ever since then. We take soils would take to replace the sports turf.” samples every 3 weeks sending these to the One of the forward thinking leisure AFBI laboratories in Belfast so that they can facilities taking part in the AFBI research Sean Reilly, Head Greenskeeper Lough Erne monitor nematode levels all the time and programme is the beautiful and recently Resort takes core samples of turf from areas identify the stage of the nematodes life cycle constructed Lough Erne Resort in showing thinning for laboratory analysis of for treatment. When turf is treated during County Fermanagh. This scenic lakeside nemotode presence the hatching period of the cycle, it is most Championship course was constructed in effective in reducing numbers by 90%.” 2006 using a sand based design and after “Premium courses have to deliver high “AFBI help to advise on how we can best 18 months to two years has shown signs of playing standards that players have come treat the problem here and we are also one nematode damage in the greens. Course to expect. If we weren’t so pro-active in of the pilot amenities to test some of the new Superintendent Sean Reilly, explained. tackling the problem, playability would compounds that AFBI are developing to treat www.gcsai.org 26 Greenside

27 greenside magazine | December 2010 Feature

Sean Reilly, Head Greenskeeper Lough Erne Resort and Dr Colin Fleming, principal scientist AFBI take core samples of turf for laboratory analysis of nemotode presence. the problem. The natural compounds fit well with our strict environmental policies and natural wetland areas here at the Resort and are safe to use so close to the lakeside. We have had some successes so far with some of these and despite the ongoing problems, our course has stayed in great shape for our players and we know that because we have tackled this head-on, we are winning the battle against this almost invisible enemy.” Dr. Colin Fleming comments further. Needle nematode Spiral nematode Over the past few years we have increased our knowledge of the ecology and effects of plant parasitic nematode in turfgrass. Work carried out at AFBI and the Queens University of Belfast has revealed large differences in the nematode populations affecting a range of turfgrass species and rootzone construction types, with over 17 different types of nematode found regularly in European turfgrass. Typically in the UK and Ireland, new creeping bentgrass sand based USGA Spirals on roots Stunt nematode constructions show little evidence of plant parasitic nematodes in their first year of of the most damaging turfgrass species, to cause actual turf thinning. Nematode growth. However during year 2, the initially including root knot nematodes (Meloidogyne diversity (the range of types present) also low levels of nematodes start to form minor and M. naasi), sheath nematodes tends to increase with the age of the green localised “hotspots”, where significant root (Hemicycliophora) and spiral nematodes and new greens can soon suffer from the damage and visual turf symptoms can be (Helicotylenchus). effects of a diverse population of plant seen. The high levels of sand used in these After a few years these nematodes can parasites, each affecting turf growth in greens provide perfect conditions for some build up to levels where damage is sufficient different ways. www.gcsai.org 28 Feature

Traditional links greens also have a high Soil-based greens are often dominated on root cells. Virtually all soils contain sand content and not unexpectedly, they by stunt nematodes (Tylenchorynchus) these parasites but damage to plants only usually contain very diverse nematode and spiral nematodes (Helicotylenchus). occurs when nematode levels become populations. Increasingly, we have been Spiral nematodes can reach extremely high high. Nematode infested roots become witnessing instances of nematode damage in densities (>5000 nematodes per 100ml soil) stunted and bushy, develop lesions and these constructions, especially when greens and in these cases most turf roots will exhibit may exhibit galling. are stressed by climate, or when greenkeepers necrosis and cortical breakdown. attempt to reduce nutrient inputs. Needle The wide range of nematode types found 2. For further research: nematodes (Longidorus) are one of the main in turfgrass means that delivering effective The identification, status and potential problems encountered in links turf and control of plant parasitic nematodes can damage of root-knot nematodes even low levels of these large ectoparasites be a demanding task for the greenkeeper. Meloidogyne spp. in Northern Ireland. can cause severe root problems. Loss of However a better understanding of the Poa in links greens was a common problem biology of these pests will lead to improved http://eservices.afbini.gov.uk/ during 2010 and Poa decline has been methods for reducing nematode levels and researchweb/research/projects. linked to infection by the root gall nematode minimising their impact on turfgrass. aspx?id=UDIwMDMwMTA0- (Subanguina radicicola). Interestingly, the D9k4XM3q45o%3D horse racing calendar at Chepstow was Note curtailed this year due to health and safety 1. Two major types of nematode parasitise Michael Cousins Photography concerns resulting from turf loss caused by plants. Endoparasitic nematodes actually Colin Fleming photos this nematode. enter the roots, where they migrate Golf greens containing rootzones with through the plant, often reaching the lower levels of sand, support totally vascular tissue before starting to feed. different nematode populations to those Ectoparasitic species remain in the soil found in USGA and links constructions. and migrate along root surfaces, feeding

For further information please contact:

Hilary Knight @ Hilary Knight Communications | 028 3888 1368 or 07712 192782 | [email protected] Dr. Colin Fleming 028 9025 5263 or 07974 663173 | [email protected] or AFBI Press Office 028 9025 5636

29 greenside magazine | December 2010 Greenside

Hilton Templepatrick HiltonCourse Feature and Photography by Alan MahonTemplepatrick

Designed by Davy Jones of European Golf Design, Hilton Templepatrick is a majestic eighteen-hole golf course located only a few miles from Belfast City Centre.

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Hilton Templepatrick Hilton Templepatrick

31 greenside magazine | December 2010 Feature

Templepatrick Hotel

The name Templepatrick signifies the fact that a stone Church associated with the visit of St. Patrick was erected there. ‘Teampull’ (from Tampull) means a stone Church: hence Teampull Patrick means the stone Church of St. Patrick.

arrived there on a lovely October morning, where Michael Loughran, the Course Superintendent at Hilton Templepatrick,I greeted me. The one hundred and twenty nine bedroom hotel, which is attached to the course, provides an elegant backdrop to the eighteenth green. The land, on which the golf course is built, is leased from the Kinahan family. Though the course has only been open for eleven years, the site on which the course is located dates back to the Bronze Age. During construction of the course, archeologists found remains of houses, flints, axe heads and pottery at the 5th, 6th, 16th, and 18th, holes as well as where the present hotel is built. The estate at Hilton Templepatrick covers 300 acres of which the golf course occupies 180 acres. Castle Upton, which forms part of the estate, dates back to the 13th century and has had a most interesting history. The present owners, the Kinahan family, bought the estate in 1963 for £58,000 and have renovated the castle in stages over the years. The first Course Manager at Hilton course construction back in 1997. Michael Castle Upton is believed to be the oldest Templepatrick was Frank Ainsworth. He started work as Frank’s Assistant at Hilton continually inhabited house in Ireland. was involved right from the start of the Templepatrick in 2000. Frank has since www.gcsai.org 32 Feature

stepped aside with Michael taking over the Tree planting has been carried out regularly reigns last January. Today Michael Loughran over the past ten years to compliment the and his eight staff members look after the existing mature trees growing throughout maintenance of the course, which includes the course. Some of the earlier plantings have maintaining the planting beds and grass areas grown so well that they have been re-lifted, around the hotel grounds. Eamon Logue using a mechanical tree spade, and planted is the Golf Operations Manager who also elsewhere on the course. The survival rate happens to be the current Captain of the Irish of these transplanted semi-mature trees Region of the PGA. is exceptionally high, somewhere in the Some changes to the course layout have region of 85-90%. Michael Loughran recalls been made since the course opened in one funny incident where a very large pine June 1999. This year the original par four tree was transplanted beside the first tee 18th hole was lengthened and changed to for a photo shoot. Large pine trees are not a par five. Back in 2006 the par four 10th the easiest to move around so there was hole was reshaped to tease the adventurous no expectation of this tree surviving, but golfer into going for the green in one, survive it did, and it now grows happily despite the long water feature that is there beside the first tee. As well as planting new

to catch the wayward ball, if the shot is not the river are often submerged during heavy trees, Michael also has to keep an eye on executed to perfection. There is a safer way floods, while the course has remained dry. the mature trees. This winter will see some of approaching this hole, which allows you Wildlife at Hilton Templepatrick is branches being thinned and there may to safely reach the green in two. It was the abundant. There are many woodland areas even be some trees which might have to be fore mentioned Frank Ainsworth who was within the course boundary. There are badger removed, due to rot setting in, making them involved in designing these two holes and, sets located around the course, and grey dangerous for golfers. Stuart Ashford is the being a keen golfer, has tastefully created a squirrels are plentiful. Buzzards and sparrow man in charge of felling and removing the challenge where other designers have often hawks are a common sight and migrating timber for the estate. failed. Canada geese have been seen using the Having so many wonderful trees around The Six Mile Water river runs along the edge course as a stopover. Fish have now naturally the course has its downside - Autumn! With of the course where there is an old towpath. colonized the man made lakes, formed so many trees losing their leaves during that On the course side of the towpath there is during the course construction, and a family time, it is out with the leaf blowers each day a low embankment, which has proved very of swans can be seen on the lake in front of up to Christmas, a tedious but necessary useful over the years in preventing the course the 18th - a welcome sight. Deer are raised chore. from becoming flooded when the river bursts on the estate and they can be seen in herds The greens have been constructed using its banks. The fields on the opposite side of close by. USGA specifications and were sown with a

33 greenside magazine | December 2010 Feature

fescue/bent mix. One thing I noticed, while walking the course, was the scarcity of poa annua on the greens and tees. “We never hollow core or overseed our greens and we do not intend doing so in the future.” said Michael. “We solid tine the greens in February and November and give a routine topdressing during the growing season. This year we gave an application of granular fertilizer at the start of the season (8:0:0:) and another in late June (4:0:8:) Everything after that is applied as a liquid seaweed based feed”. The only areas on the course that are routinely topdressed are the greens, tees and walk off areas. Frank Ainsworth has often said, “If you want meadow grass, then hollow core.” That is coming from a man who has almost fifty years of greenkeeping experience behind him. “Because of our low fertility input, we do get problems with moss on some of the greens.” added Michael. “Wherever it occurs, I give an application of Carfetrazone, which works well to contain the problem.” The height of cut (HOC) on greens in the summer is never lower than 4.5mm. This increases to 6.5mm in winter. The HOC on tees is 10mm in summer and 12mm in winter. As with many golf courses, pitch marks are a constant annoyance for Michael and his staff. Coming in on a Monday morning after a busy weekend is a nightmare for him. “You can see the dead patches of grass where each unrepaired pitch mark was made. You can prevent the grass from dying if a pitch mark is repaired within ten minutes.” Good advice from Michael, but it is very hard to get this message across to some of today’s golfers. For a course that is only eleven years open, it has matured very well. Despite the current economic downturn, visitor numbers are holding well and www.gcsai.org 34 Feature

“As with many Machinery used at Hilton Templepatrick golf courses, pitch • John Deere 220C pedestrian greensmower x 3 • Toro workman x 1 marks are a constant • Jacobsen Greensking 6 with thatching units x 1 • Jacobsen TR3 surrounds mower x 1 annoyance for • Jacobsen 4677 fairway mower x 1 • Saxon pedestrian tees mower x 4 Michael and his staff.” • Iseki SF303 rotary mower x 1 • John Deere 3245C rotary mower x 1 • Toro 4300D rotary mower x 1 membership has remained steady. The course hosted a • Flymo x 3 Ladies European Tour event - The Northern Ireland Ladies • Cushman truxters x 2 Open, which attracted many of Europe’s top professional • Hardi 800litre sprayer x 1 golfers in June 2007. I was amazed to hear, when I arrived, • John Deere 5400 70HP tractor x 1 that all the rooms in the hotel were completely booked up. This is no surprise as the hotel was voted the World Travel • Kubota L5040 50HP tractor x 1 Award Northern Ireland leading golf resort and also the • Smithco leaf blower x 1 Northern Ireland leading business hotel in 2010. • Pedestrian leaf blowers x 2 With dedicated and loyal staff, Hilton Tempepatrick is in • Back pack leaf blowers x 3 safe hands, giving many more years of golf and recreation. • Toro Procore x 1

Green Staff at Hilton Templepatrick. Left, Kieran Dowd, Ryan Liddy, Jimmy Osborne, Paul Harrison, Frank Ainsworth and Michael Loughran. Missing from photo is Phil McKeown and Mark Hunt (inset).

35 greenside magazine | December 2010 Southwest Report by Michael F O’Connor, Killarney Golf and Fishing Club

The “Locals” show the way in Windy Tralee

One of the more challenging Greens in Tralee.

ur August outing took us to the Results from Tralee North Kerry town of Tralee which is renowned in song and story for it’s Overall O“Roses” though not alone for those beautiful 1st Michael Leahy Tralee G.C. 8 h’cap. 38pts. petals but also for it’s links golf course. 2nd Seamus Lyons Charleville G.C. 16 h’cap. 37pts. The sun shone brightly throughout the day 3rd J.J. Young Tralee G.C. 18 h’cap. 36pts. with no need whatsoever for a brolly rain Category 1 jacket. With a very strong wind combined 1st Tommy Sayers Dingle 8 h’cap. 32pts. with a well set up course and fast greens, we Category 2 looked forward enthusiastically to a very 1st Philip McGillicuddy Dooks G.C. 13 h’cap. 30pts. challenging round of golf. Low scoring was 2nd Tommy Barrett Charleville G.C. 14 h’cap 30pts. the order of the day and sure enough, the Category 3 experienced “locals” showed the way, with 1st Colman Fitzpatrick Kanturk G.C. 22 h’cap. 31pts. just one non-local involved in the first three Trade places. One of the 2009 Presidents Cup 1st James D’Arcy DAR Golf Constuction 17 h’cap. 31pts. heroes, Michael Leahy, returned a superb 2nd Ken McMenman Martyns Grass Lawns 16 h’cap. 21pts. score of thirty eight points in extremely Guest Prize windy conditions. Seamus Lyons of Philip O’Sullivan Tralee G.C. 9 h’cap. 32pts. Charleville followed close behind with thirty seven points, just one point ahead of J.J. Young, Course Superintendent at the Tralee Qualifier venue, with a very creditable thirty six points. The Tralee outing was also the qualifier James D’Arcy of Dar Golf Construction won for the Presidents Cup 2010 and the team the Trade prize. selected to play in the event at Dromoland We would like to take this opportunity to Castle Golf Club were as follows: sincerely thank the Management Committee Michael Leahy and J.J. Young of Tralee, at Tralee for the use of their top of the range Seamus Lyons of Charleville, Simon O’Hara facilities and also our sincere gratitude must of Fota, Michael J. O’Sullivan of Killarney, go to Course Superintendent J.J. Young and Philip McGillicuddy of Dooks and your’s his excellent staff for the pristine condition of truly as Captain. the course. Well done to everyone involved t Seamus Lyons (Charleville) plays from for a great day out! a bunker in Tralee. www.gcsai.org 36 Southwest Report

We really looked forward to Dromoland to defend the title we won in Castleknock Golf Club in 2009. President’s Cup 2010 The 2010 President’s Cup was played on the very picturesque and environmentally friendly Dromoland Castle Golf Club on Friday 8th. October. This is a regional team competition consisting of two team members from each category of handicap e.g. 0 to 9, 10 to 17, and from 18 upwards. The South West won it in 2009 so this year we were back to defend the title. But, it was not to be! There was no joy this time around and although we put in a good performance, we were unable to produce the high scores needed to achieve success. Congratulations to the South East Region on winning this year’s event. No doubt the South West will be trying their very best to win the trophy back again in 2011. I would like to thank all my team mates most sincerely for their fine efforts on the day L to R. Seamus Lyons & Tommy Barrett (Charleville), John Rouine (Lahinch) and Philip and wish to remind them that our day will McGillicuddy (Dooks) take a break in Tralee. come again. Tiuchaigh ar la aris! Go raibh míle maith agaibh go léir! The South West Region would like to acknowledge the contribution made by The Scotts Company in sponsoring this prestigious tournament. The competition gets better each passing year and we can always look forward to a fabulous day out which would not be possible without the continued support from the competition sponsors. Sympathy We would like to extend our deepest Michael F. makes a special presentation to Overall Winner Michael Leahy. sympathy to Barry Harmon Greenkeeper Head Superintendent J.J. Young at Dooks Golf Club in County Kerry on the recent untimely death of his brother, Maurice (Mossie) at a relatively young Christmas comes early for age. Our condolences also go to Michael Michael J. McFeely, Course Superintendent at Michael J. O’Sullivan must have thought that Westmanstown Golf Club in County Christmas arrived early this year, when he Dublin on the death of his father, Kevin. was presented with a wonderful hamper to We can assure both Barry and Michael and take first prize in ‘The Christmas Hampers’ their families that our thoughts and prayers outing to exotic Fota Island Golf Club in are with them at this very sad time. County Cork on Thursday 4th November Ar dheis Dé go raibh a cuid anam dhilis. 2010. Strong winds were the order of the day and though we were very lucky that the Results rain decided to stay away, it made for a very The Results of the 2010 Christmas Hampers challenging days golf. Michael was just one outing, due to take place at Fota Golf Club, of three competitors each of whom, in spite County Cork will be published in the first of the conditions, returned superb scores of Michael O’Sullivan winning the Christmas issue of Greenside, early in the New Year. thirty nine points. Michael had a better back hamper nine holes than the others with nineteen Sponsors points, whereas the second and third Simon O’Hara, and their staff, must be We would like to thank our sponsors most positions had eighteen points and seventeen congratulated on the excellent condition sincerely for their undying support as always points respectively. of the course and especially as we had in good times and in bad. Please give our Our thanks to Fota Golf Club Management entered the winter season. Our highest sponsors as much support as you possibly Committee for the use of the superb compliments must go to Catering Manager can. I know it can’t be easy in these difficult complex. We are most grateful! Joe and his catering staff for the delicious times but every little helps. As I have said Course Superintendent, Con O’Driscoll, culinary delights served up afterwards and many times before “We would not survive as well as his very capable Assistant for the high standard of service. My sincere without our sponsors”.

37 greenside magazine | December 2010 Northeast Report by David Callanan, Beech Park Golf Club

thanks to Karen in the bar area for all her help during the day. It all contributed to a superb day out for the Region! Golfer of the Year 2010 Heartiest congratulations to “Famous” Seamus Lyons on winning Golfer of the Year 2010. Seamus had a superb year and left us in no doubt as to who the winner was! He finished well ahead of his nearest challenger and had a total of twenty four points to spare at the end. Well done on having such a great 2010. Results From Fota Island

Overall 1st Michael J. O’Sullivan Killarney G/F.C. 18h’cap. 39pts.

2nd Sean Moynihan Killarney G/F.C. 12h’cap. 39pts.

3rd Seamus Lyons The Northeast team taking part in the the GCSAI Charity Day at Naas were left: John Egan, Charleville G.C. 17h’cap. 39pts. Dean Brock, Alan McArdle, David Callanan

Category 1 nce again the long evenings are the results started to come in it was clear to 1st Simon O’Hara upon us and the fine summer we see that the lads from the Grange Golf Club Fota Island G.C. 6h’cap. 38pts. had is now just a memory. It has were hunting in a pack as they occupied the Obeen a tough year for many of our clubs top 3 spots on the day. Category 2 financially, but with a dry summer I hope Finally I would like to thank Nass Golf 1st David Begley all Superintendents found the pressure to Club and David Behan in particular for Shannon G.C. 11h’cap. 34pts. produce top quality playing conditions far the excellent Charity Day held recently. easier than in the previous two seasons. The bar was set very high for the condition 2nd Paudie Horan This time of year offers Superintendents that I needed to have Beech Park in for the Killarney G/F.C. 13h’cap 34pts. from neighbouring clubs an opportunity to Autumn Trophy. I will take this opportunity come together and discuss topics such as to wish everyone involved in our industry a Category 3 staff levels, budget cuts, and membership happy and healthy festive season. 1st Pat O’Rourke levels in clubs. I am part of one of these Shannon G.C. 19h’cap. 37pts. groups in my area and I would highly recommend it to all Superintendents. It is Autumn Trophy Results Trade worth remembering that we all face similar 1st Ken McMenman challenges in our clubs and quite often Martyns Grass Lawns 16h’cap. 34pts. discussing these problems with others can 1st Jason Whelan 33 pts take some pressure from our shoulders 2nd Dean Brock 33 pts 2nd Frank Coniry. and equip us with answers to give to our Coniry Golf Services 13h’cap. 31pts. members when asked about the “golf course 3rd Mark Bewley 28 pts down the road.” Guest Prize I would like to take this opportunity 4th Kevin Naughton 27 pts Trevor Norris to thank all sponsors of the North East Castlemartyr G.C. 7h’cap. 38pts Region and The GCSAI as a whole for their 5th Niall O’Reilly 27 pts continued support over a difficult year. 6th Paul Fitzgerald 27 pts Golfer of the Year 2010 Seamus Lyons Autumn Trophy 7th Eddie Donlon 27 pts Charleville G.C. It was a great pleasure for me to have the Annual Autumn Trophy played in Beech Park Golf Club for the first time. I would New Year 2011 like to personally thank Finol for their Trade prize: Frank Byrne As this is the last issue of Greenside for 2010, generous sponsorship of the event. Longest Drive: Declan Higgins I would like to take this opportunity to wish Unfortunately numbers were down a all our members and sponsors as well as their little on what we expected due to a clash of Nearest the Pin: Rory Sweeney families and, in fact, everybody involved in outings with the now Annual Charity Day the Turfgrass Industry, a Very Happy and held in Nass. That aside, my crew presented Visitor Section: Rory Sweeney Holy Christmas and a Healthy, Joyous and the course in excellent condition, with a Properous 2011. Looking forward to seeing little help from the weather, and everybody you all again, early in the New Year! agreed it was an enjoyable afternoon. When www.gcsai.org 38 Southeast Report by Trevor Dargan, Woodenbridge Golf Club

nce again Autumn has come and gone and we are now under the Ocosh with leaves and debris to clean up, especially for those working on parkland courses. Our machinery fleet needs so much tender loving care after a tough summer. If you are like me, we are monitoring our greens twice daily for disease issues and implementing a sound fertilizer program, with the back up of my agronomist, Julian Mooney, working on changes in our fungicide program, as the weather patterns change. The winning Southeast team. This photo captures the mood at Dromoland Castle very well

superb guidance of Tony Quinn. I would recommend all to try and qualify for this competition next year as it is a great days golfing and great craic, meeting up with fellow greenkeepers throughout the country. We will be playing a number of fine courses again next year and we thank all who have offered their courses at this most difficult time. We will be sending out a text of up and coming outings very soon.

Mark Rowland chips onto the green at the Presidents Cup, Dromoland Castle.

As we go forward, we are under pressure from committees to reduce budgets Eighty three year old Noel Sheridan, who to match our financial balance sheet. played in the GCSAI Charity Day at Naas Golf Something I feel all staff should be made Club, can still show the younger folk a thing or fully aware of so that they are kept in two when it comes to playing golf. the loop with regards to further changes within our clubs. With that in mind, we have Fiona Brown from our helpline to bounce any question off in this regard. We had a successful Presidents Cup this Paul Smyth almost makes a putt at the year, bringing home the trophy under the Presidents Cup, Dromoland Castle.

Positive Answer

Two Hydrogen atoms meet. One says, ‘I’ve lost my electron.’ The other says ‘Are you sure?’ The first replies, ‘Yes I’m positive.’

39 greenside magazine | December 2010 Northwest report by Aled Roberts, Ballinrobe Golf Club

Europe win Ryder Cup but US win the Hurley

2nd hole Enniscrone Golf Club, Sligo

Galway Bay Outing The weather was fantastic and we had a great turnout for our Presidents Cup qualifier at Galway Bay GC last July. Jason Podris and his crew produced a beautifully presented golf course. The results from this outing are below. Results from Galway Bay 1st Mike Ryan 2nd Johnny Mannion 3rd Aled Roberts 4th Damian McLaverty Trade Prize: Michael Corbett

On the first tee at Enniscrone are left: John Moran (Glenlo Abbey GC), Jason Podris (Galway Bay GC), Sam McKenzie (Olympia Seals GC) and John Colo (Golf Club of York) Ryder Cup Revenge members of TurfNet had a point to prove. On Enniscrone Golf Club was the venue for one a blustery day on the Connacht coast, in tough of the toughest golfing battles the North West conditions, there was some excellent golf on region has fought in a long time. With the display. The NW region outing was played, At the Galway Bay outing are left: Ciarán Ryder Cup defeat still ringing in their ears, as well as the team event against our friends Sweeney (Enniscrone GC), Mike Ryan (Gort twenty superintendants from the US and from the States. The battle was won by the GC), John Mullins (Gort GC) www.gcsai.org 40 Northwest Report

narrowest of margins, 249 - 248 to TurfNet, so congratulations to them. The course, as usual, was in great condition, and praise must be given to Enda Mulrooney and the course staff. Local knowledge came in handy as Ciarán Sweeney of Enniscrone GC won the singles event and John Moran of Glenlo Abbey GC came second. The trade prize went to Siobhan Herr of Martyns Lawns.

At the Galway Bay outing are left: Declan Higgins (Athenry GC), Billy Connell (Galway GC), At the 18th green at Galway Bay are left: Aled Roberts (Ballinrobe GC), Peadar Grealish (Gort GC) Tommy McHugh (Tuam GC), John Mannion (Tuam GC), Jimmy McHugh (Tuam GC) and Dermot Casserley (Ballina GC) Presidents Cup Congratulations to our Presidents Cup team on coming second at Dromoland Castle. The team is slowly but surely improving each year. Who knows what next year will bring? Congratulations to the SE region who won the competition. We all had a great day, and I would like to take this opportunity to thank The Scotts Company, once again, for their generous sponsorship of the event. Finally, I would like to take this opportunity on behalf of the NW region to wish Dermot Casserley of Ballina GC and Martina Greany, all the very best on the occasion of their wedding. Fad saol agus sonas díbh.

Jimmy McHugh (Tuam GC), finds himself in a pot bunker on the 18th green at the Galway Bay outing

Winner at Enniscrone Ciarán Sweeney, receives his prize from Tommy McHugh

t Enjoying the craic at Enniscrone. Left: Jon Kiger (TurfNet), Mark Fuller (Connecticut GC), Mike Ryan (Gort GC), Pat McCarthy (Gort GC)

41 greenside magazine | December 2010 F.E.G.G.A.Greenside Report by Dean Cleaver CEO Ultimate Challenge What a tremendous Ryder Cup! And what a great advertisement for the game of golf. There is no doubt in my mind that many other sports could learn from the marvellous matches that took place over the four days at Celtic Manor. It contained a feast of sporting entertainment and provided an end that could not have been written.

t also provided challenges to the golf courses, and in total has 104,500 golfers organisers, but also to the team of playing the game today. The AGA is a great greenkeepers who not only defied the example of a small association that serves Iextreme elements of the weather, but did so its membership well and provides excellent in providing excellent playing surfaces for services throughout Austria. You can find the duration of the matches. I was fortunate more information about the AGA by visiting enough to be able to attend on the Sunday their website at www.aga-grinbo.at and Monday and there was no doubt in my The Austrian Greenkeepers Conference mind that Jim Mckenzie and his team did was really the start of the Conference season. a marvellous job, and showed yet again the The Austrian Greenkeepers Assoication With many good events being organised talented people that we have working in Annual Conference over the next four months it underlines the our industry today. The spectator areas may commitment that Greenkeeper Associations have taken a battering and will take time management. You can view more are making, in providing good education and to recover, but having walked a few holes information about the Greener Golf Events continuous learning programmes available following the final putt, there was little doubt by visiting http://www.golfenvironment.org/ to greenkeepers throughout Europe. Take that another Ryder Cup could have been The Austrian Greenkeepers Association advantage and enjoy the learning experience. played the following days. (AGA) recently held their annual conference The 2010 Ryder Cup was also the most in the lovely small town of Altlengach, some environmentally and socially responsible 40 minutes drive from the city of Vienna. large golf event ever staged - reducing The Conference marked a milestone for the resource consumption, raising awareness and association, as they celebrated 20 years and showcasing innovation. I know from talking it was nice to be part of their celebrations, FEGGA has recently introduced a with Jonathan Smith that it was a mammoth along with 250 delegates, a turnout of more FACEBOOK group. We hope that we are effort in time and resources leading up than 50% of its membership. It is great to see able through this group to introduce some to the event. There is no doubt that this members supporting their association, and interesting subjects and discussions, bringing work produced some excellent results and placing high value on the importance of their greenkeepers and industry partners together certainly created the most environmentally individual educational needs, to ensure the throughout Europe. Take a look and sign friendly Ryder Cup to date. This really does scope of their role, and meet the challenges up and start using the page as a tool to share underline the good work golf is now doing in in these ever changing times. The AGA and gain valuable information through your promoting good responsible environmental currently has some 405 members and 151 peers. www.gcsai.org 42 Greenside

Growing success Growing success Scotts Fly the Flag at Dromoland The stage was set. The four regions had selected their teams during the year, and it was then down to the final shootout at Dromoland Castle.

he occasion was the annual GCSAI Presidents Cup, sponsored by The Scotts Company. The day started a littleT overcast with some light rain but within an hour, it brightened up to give a pleasant day of golf. The Southeast region were the eventual winners, with each of their groups bringing in exceptionally high scores that proved difficult to beat - two of the groups brought in scores of fifty points each. The Northwest region took a deserved second prize. It took the golfers some time to adjust to the u The winning Southeast team with sponsors, back row left: Colman Warde (The Scotts Company), Mark Rowland, Trevor Dargan, Robert Kilduff, Michael Loughran (GCSAI President). Front row, Roy Butler, Tony Quinn (captain), Pat Kelly, Paul Smyth.

43 greenside magazine | December 2010 The Presidents Cup Growing success

Mark Rowland tees off as Paul Smyth, Seamus Lyons and Philip McGillycuddy watch the ball in Simon Barnaby of the Scotts team looks flight. anxiously on the first tee. lightning pace of the greens. The Captain of the Southeast team, Tony Quinn, accepted the trophy on behalf of his team and complimented Paul Coleman and his staff on the fantastic condition of the course, even with fast greens. Tony also thanked Colman Warde of The Scotts Company for supporting the GCSAI in sponsoring this much loved golfing event. GCSAI President Michael Loughran was in attendance and after the meal he also thanked The Scotts Company for continuing with their generous sponsorship of this very popular event. He encouraged those present to support the sponsors when purchasing products. There was another, if not equally important, competition which also took place. It was the Scotts V GCSAI match where the GCSAI were the winners. Nearest the Pin competition was won Bemuse golfers watch ducks walking across the 18th green by Colman Warde and the Longest Drive competition was won by Alan McArdle of the Northeast team. Dromoland Castle is situated on a magnificent estate dating back to the 16th century. The golf course, which is attached to the estate, was designed by JB Carr and Ron Kirby and it is a gem of a course to play. It is maintained by Paul Coleman and his staff, who are doing an excellent job in looking after the course. Already the regions are looking forward to next year’s event. The venue is a closely guarded secret, but wherever it will be, it will not disappoint.

u The Scotts Company representatives. Standing left: Colman Warde, Simon Barnaby, Michael Fance. Seated Gary Smyth, Samantha Cassidy

www.gcsai.org 44 The Presidents Cup Growing success

The Northeast team from left: Simon Barnaby (The Scotts Company), Alan McArdle, Colman Warde (The Scotts Company), Ken Boyle, Robert McDermott, Dean Brock, Gary Smyth (The Scotts Company), James Duggan, Michael Fance (The Scotts Comp[any), John Egan (captain), Fachtna O’Beolain, Michael Loughran (GCSAI President)

Ken Boyle feels the pain of missing a chip-in

The Northwest team from left: Simon Barnaby (The Scotts Company), Colman Warde (The Scotts Company), Mike Ryan, Ciarán Sweeney, John Moran, Aled Roberts, Damian Coleman (captain), Gary Smyth (The Scotts Company), Damien McLaverty, Michael Fance (The Scotts Company), Michael Loughran (GCSAI President), Tom McHugh

Aled Roberts does some stretches before tee-ing off on the 1st tee, watched by Robert Kilduff

REMINDER The deadline for receiving advertising and editorial is

The Southwest team. Left: Colman Warde (The Scotts Comnpany), Michael F. O’Connor (captain) Michael Loughran (GCSAI President), Seamus Lyons, Simon Barnaby (The Scotts Company), January 21st 2011 Tom Sayers, Gary Smyth (The Scotts Company), Philip McGillycuddy, Michael Fance (The Scotts Company), Michael J. O’Sullivan, Simon O’Hara, J.J. Young

45 greenside magazine | December 2010 Feature

Don’t ask me - I can’t change now With his recent Health and Safety Workshop getting rave reviews and two other workshops on the same topic already in the bag Performance Consultant and GCSAI Conference Speaker Frank Newberry turns his attention to those of our work colleagues who resist, even legally enforceable, changes to their work practices. He suggests three options that superintendents might consider trying in order to help people change their ways at work.

n past articles I have to me that the worker might actually want to 1. Be relevant or connected to the work be- referred to some go on light duties and might even accept, if ing done by the team team members as not welcome, a calculated pay cut. 2. Add value to what the team does and/or I‘old fogies’. I described Stranger things have happened; the person the way it does it these people as being may have been feeling uncomfortable for 3. Be seen to be of real value - by the those who have been do- some time, wondering what to say and employer. ing a reasonable job on dropping hints that might not have been a limited range of tasks picked up. In a culture where people are I believe that any project work a person over a period of years. They can often be rather shy about such matters you may need does - is done best - if the person concerned older team members who are quite happy do- to listen for every hint and nuance. thinks up the project. So perhaps you could ing the same job year in and year out but this So option number one for your active start by asking the person what they would is not exclusively an issue with older workers. consideration in these situations is: like to do. Perhaps they could be asked what Some of the most radical, progressive and they think needs doing or what they have inspiring people I have ever met have been in their 60’s, 70’s and 80’s and there are also many younger team members who prefer to do a limited range of duties.

You will have trouble with a capital ‘T’ This ‘doing the same old job all the time’ is fine all round if it fits in with what the employer wants from his/her people. However, if your people resist changes in work methods or decline new duties that are seen as important, then you have a little problem. Some changes can even be a legal requirement e.g. new Health and Safety legislation may require a change and if your people resist the law then you will have trouble with a capital ‘T’ to add to your little problem. A great guy I know (a turf care professional in a supervisory position) told me that he recently tried to get one of his older staff members to change his ways because it was a legal requirement to do so and the response came ‘Don’t even ask me to do that - I can’t change now’. The person took the view that he would never be held accountable in court 1. Offer them a new deal - if you always wanted to try out but have been too for dangerous or hazardous work practices can - with lower wages for busy to do in the past. Also a little research if his supervisor would get someone else to doing less work. or experimentation, a few inspections or ex- perform those duties in future. aminations, some reviews or evaluations here and there, can often be of real value. If a pay cut sets a tricky precedent and the You may need to listen for every hint and When I ask superintendents and worker is willing to work a full week then nuance greenkeepers what they would like to spend you might consider reverting to a series of My first reaction, as someone who is an more time doing at work they often indicate improvement projects that the person cando ‘old dog’ who occasionally has to ‘learn that they would like to visit other sites or to fill up the hours s/he now has available new tricks’ myself was to suggest that he other places to check out ‘best practice’. It since they declined new tasks, or declined to could get others to do that particular task, should be emphasised that best practice do some old tasks that have to be done in a and other tasks, and other tasks until the might extend to the policies and rules that new and safer way. guy was eventually on ‘light duties’. Now a others have in place. Many say they want As indicated in a previous article, any consequence of going on light duties might to spend more time surveying opinion or project work the person does would be a lighter pay packet. I resisted saying ‘see listening to customers and colleagues in other need to have real merit. For example the what he thinks of that idea’ when it occurred departments so that they can factor their improvement projects would have to: www.gcsai.org 46 Feature

thoughts into the way their work is being improvement projects gradually diminish their legacy and enjoying the respect and done or scheduled. in number over time. First, the person is admiration their contribution to the work has Then there is always stocktaking, energised and motivated by the responsibility earned them. It might even be possible, after inventories and safety checks that need to be of the improvement projects or specialisms they retire, to retain them for a few hours a done. Individuals have told me that a specific and starts to take on the tasks previously week as a coach and mentor to the work team responsibility for something or a specialism resisted. With the outcome being that s/he or someone who can help out at busy times of some kind always brings more meaning to stays on the workforce in a full-time capacity of the year doing work to a good standard. So their work. Second, some of the work generated by the option number three for your consideration is: So option number two for your projects extends into a full time and ongoing consideration is: workload which the organisation values 3. Offer them the chance to have a in the long term as well as short term. The meaningful legacy and a useful 2. Offer them the opportunity outcome again being that s/he stays on the role as they approach the end of to do a series of improvement workforce in a full-time capacity. their working lives. projects. A meaningful legacy for them to pass onto I firmly believe that if we listen closely to I suspect a number of different improvement the work team people who seem to be resisting change we projects would need to be generated and will learn which options, or combinations of evaluated against agreed criteria. Third, the individual, after a time, can see options and reassurances, that will work best If the person cannot think of many project that their personal contribution, over the full for them. You never know maybe you will be ideas then people in supervision could give term of their employment along with their able to change some of them from ‘old fogeys’ their point of view on what they would like more recent project work has developed into to ‘golden oldies’. to see improved, or just the things that they a meaningful legacy for them to pass onto If you have people resisting needed changes would like to see done that are not currently the work team. This is important to many or underperforming and you would like to being done. It is important to get the person’s long serving staff because it gives them the speak to someone about it then contact Frank commitment to do an improvement project, feeling that their contribution will not be lost, by e-mail [email protected] or via his especially if s/he did not think of it. A good wasted or forgotten when they do eventually personal website www.franknewberry.com. few will be needed so that there are other leave full- time employment. Please mention that you read this article in improvement projects waiting, as and By this point in the arc of their work Greenside Magazine. when the early ones are ‘put to bed’ by the experience they should already be coaching individual. and mentoring others, perhaps the younger, Author: Frank Newberry © 2010 Frank The person is energised and motivated less experienced team members. In this way Newberry Three things might happen as the they can be actively involved in passing on

The GCSAI

would like to wish its members a Holy Christmas and a Happy New Year

47 greenside magazine | December 2010 News

‘Chubby’ (right) playing against The Late Martin Sheridan Sarsfields he 7th of September 2010 was a sad golf course. His mind was like go ahead to day for the Sheridan family and a sponge and he was always play GAA. On Castlewarden Golf Club in Co. willing to learn new things.” Friday the 3rd TKildare, when Martin Sheridan (22) was Martin was a keen of September laid to rest. sportsman - one of those lads Martin played The young man from Coill Dubh in Co. who was good at everything. He the last ten Kildare, who was known to his friends as played hurling and soccer with minutes of a “Chubby”, was a promising greenkeeper in Coill Dubh, but his first love was challenge match Castlewarden Golf Club and had recently Gaelic football. He played with with St.Kevins started his college course in greenkeeping. the local parish team St.Kevins. senior team Martin was working in Castlewarden for and was their captain. He played against Pallintine the last five years. His assistant greenkeeper midfield on the second team from Carlow. was his father Peter, who has been the in the Kildare reserve championship. He Along with some other players, they went assistant there for the last three years. At was outstanding in the quarter final and for something to eat in Carlow Town. the start of this year Martin’s brother Peter was given the Man of the Match award. St. Later on, Martin began to feel unwell and jnr. joined the staff at Castlewarden. The Kevin’s went on to win the championship for unfortunately he tragically passed away Course Superintendent, Glen Pearson, said “chubby” and his family . Peter, his father was around 11pm that night. “Martin was an exceptional young lad who there to accept the cup on behalf of his son, The Chairman of St. Kevins, John Noone, was highly thought of, both as a person in what was a very emotional night for his said “The entire club was very upset about and a greenkeeper. He was a hard worker family and football club. the death of the exceptional young man.” who never complained, he got on with the Martin previously had a pacemaker fitted Glen Pearson said “Martin would never be job, was very punctual , and very proud because he suffered from a heart defect. forgotten in Castlewarden Golf Club and his of his work. He could do anything on the A couple of months later he was given the memory would live on.” May he rest in peace.

Death of Wayne Byrne Early Discount on Open Tickets Tickets are now on sale for the 2011 t was with great sadness that Open Championship at Royal St the greenkeeping profession George’s, with discounts available for learned of the death of Wayne early purchases. The Open sees a return to the Kent coast for the IByrne which occurred on 31st first time since 2003. October last, following a tragic Spectators who purchase before 31 December 2010 can take accident whilst on holidays in the advantage of daily tickets at a special rate, with as much as £10 off United States of America. He had the price spectators will pay on the gate. And for those who do not just celebrated his twenty fifth want to miss a shot at Sandwich, season tickets offering entry on all birthday. A native of Maynooth, eight days of the Championship are available at the price of £195 if Wayne, upon completion of bought before the end of this calendar year, a saving of almost 20%. his Leaving Certificate during Early purchase reductions also apply to a number of concessionary July 2003, commenced his tickets. greenkeeping career at Carton Tickets purchased before 13 December will arrive in time for House. From early on it was clear Wayne Byrne Christmas. that Wayne had a tremendous For spectators looking to enhance their Open experience, new passion for his chosen career. Whilst possessing an for 2011 is the International Marquee, a facility in which members excellent work ethic he also had a thirst for education. of the general public can take a break from walking the course and This thirst was in evidence when he completed his SVQ sit down to enjoy quality food and drink, whilst keeping track of level 2 & 3 at Elmwood College, Fife, Scotland and, more the golf on television. International Marquee access on the four recently, when he started a business degree at the Institute championship days costs £40 and must be accompanied by a valid of Technology Blanchardstown. Indeed, during his 2nd ticket permitting course access. year attending Elmwood College, Wayne was presented the The Greenside Club ticket will once again provide admission to Student of the Year award. the course, access to a private marquee and reserved seats within Wayne may also be familiar to fellow turf professionals the grandstand behind the 18th green, which provides unparalleled through his volunteering work at various tournaments viewing of The Open’s 72nd hole. Inside the marquee, televisions throughout the country. These tournaments helped offer uninterrupted live footage and real-time scores from the Wayne’s ambition to eventually achieve a Head course and complimentary newspapers, tea and coffee will be Greenkeeper’s position. Sadly this ambition was to end provided. following his tragic accident. He will be sadly missed by Tickets will continue to be available to purchase on the day at the family, friends, and work colleagues alike. gate. A daily ticket purchased on arrival at the course on the four championship days (14-17 July 2011) will cost £60. Under-16’s will continue to be admitted free of charge and concessions will be available. www.gcsai.org 48 Feature GCSAI Charity Day

Twenty five teams took part in the fourth GCSAI Charity day which was held at Naas Golf Club on September 27th last. This year, as before, the Irish Cancer Society was the chosen charity.

Presentation of the cheque to the Irish Cancer Society, left: Tom Carew (Craddockstown), Colm Dockrell (Teagasc), Ian O’Reilly (Irish Cancer Society), David Behan (Naas GC) and Lorraine Behan (organising committee).

ow in its fourth year, a total of €4000 the event to be successful. The teams were was raised for the Irish Cancer rewarded with glorious sunshine and, on Society. This brings the total raised top of a well manicured course, every team Nby the GCSAI, over the four year period, to thoroughly enjoyed the day. As one team put €33,000, which is good going, considering it. “What more would you want, with great that we have been in a recession for over two weather, a superb golf course and at the same years. time raising money for a very worthy cause?” The organizing committee, spearheaded It was Westmanstown Golf Club that took by David Behan, Course Superintendent top prize, won on the back nine, with the at Naas Golf Club, was delighted with the GCSAI SE region team as runners up. response. David thanked Naas Golf Club for Ian O’Reilly, fundraiser from the Irish making available the course and clubhouse. Cancer Society, was present. He said that the In particular he thanked the Captain and cheque he received would go to very good Lady captain, Richard Hayden and Angelina use in the fight for this disease which every Moody respectively, for giving them all person in the country has some relation or the assistance that was needed in order for friend suffering from.

49 greenside magazine | December 2010 Feature

About the Irish Cancer Society national cancer helpline, 1800 200 700. It also successfully lobbied a bill to ban the use of he ICC provides a range of So far in 2010 sunbeds by anyone under eighteen, recruited compassionate, free services in fourteen new peer support volunteers to help community and hospital settings the Irish Cancer newly diagnosed patients, encouraged men Tthroughout Ireland. These include specialist to keep their eye on the ball through Men’s nursing services at home and in hospital; Society has Health Awareness Week, and provided 4,500 responding to over 20,000 inquiries annually nights of care through their night nursing on the National Cancer, Action Breast responded to just service. Cancer and Action Prostate Cancer Help David Behan, event organising committee lines and the Smokers’ Quitline; It also assists under 13,000 calls member, commented “On behalf of the individuals and families to live with cancer by to it’s national organising committee, I would like to thank providing practical and emotional assistance Ian O’Reilly from the ICS for his continued through its support group and counselling cancer helpline, support for the event. We had a great turn programmes and provides accurate and out on the day, earning just over €4,000. I current information on cancer to the public. 1800 200 700. would like to congratulate the prize winners So far in 2010, the Irish cancer society has but more importantly a special “Thank You” responded to just under 13,000 calls to it’s to everybody who supported the day.”

GCSAI Team. Left: Alan Mahon, Frank Browne, Ned Browne, Noel NAD Team. Left: Pat Callanan, Trevor Prestige, Ollie Cross, Jude Sheridan. Garvey

Martyn Lawns & Sanrose Team. Left: Des McGann, Conn Dunne, Anne Behan Team. Left: Declan Higgins, Robert Kilduff, David Bobby McDermott, Ken McMenmon Garland, Barry Cavanagh www.gcsai.org 50 Feature

Team winners, Westmanstown GC. Back row, left: David Behan (GCSAI), Richard Hayden (Capt. Naas GC), Lorraine Behan (Organising Committee), Damien McLaverty Front row, left: Joe Mooney, Daniel Mooney, Jonathan Antoniotti, Kevin Hayes

Results DAR Golf Construction 1st 96pts Westmanstown GC Team. Left: 2nd 96pts GCSAI SE Region Poric Behan, 3rd 93pts Craddockstown GC James D’Arcy, Pat Murphy, 4th 91pts Anne Behan Tom Brien Nearest the Pin: 8th Hole Des McCann 17th Hole Joe Mooney Nearest the Pin: 13th Hole Daniel Mooney

Sponsors

Cropcare Reel-Tech Summerhill Lawns The Buggyman GCSAI NW Region Groundcare D’Arcy Sand Amenity Turf Supplies Dublin Grass Machinery Naas Farm Machinery Campey Jeff Howes Golf Design Eddie Connaughton Anne Behan

The organizing committee consisted of David Behan (Naas), his wife Lorraine Behan, Colm Dockrell (Teagasc), Eamon Harnett (Grange Castle), Ritchie Doyle (Lucan), and Tom Carew (Craddockstown).

PLEASE KEEP THIS EVENT IN YOUR CALENDAR FOR NEXT YEAR 26TH SEPTEMBER 2011

51 greenside magazine | December 2010 News

Life in Ireland - from a Polish Perspective

y name is twins decided to move to Ireland Dariusz to try and seek a better way of Mostowy. life, as the prospects of earning MI was born in 1975 a decent wage in Poland was in Kluczbork, fast diminishing. My first job in which is small Ireland was on a farm, milking town in Poland. cows. That only lasted two weeks I have one older but it was a good experience for sister and a me, as I had never done physical younger brother. I work before. After my brief studied carpentry employment on the farm I got a in secondary job with European Golf Services school, which I successfully completed in where we rebuilt the golf course my final year exam. When I left school I at Dromoland Castle. I really played professional soccer for five years. loved working in the golf course For one reason or another, my career as environment and after one year, a professional footballer did not continue. when we finished the renovation, After giving up soccer I then worked as a the Course Superintendent at sales representative for a spirits company Dromoland Castle, Paul Coleman, for three years. It was after finishing offered me a full time job as a greenkeeper. developed an interest in the game of golf soccer that I met my future wife Monika. I accepted the job where I was performing and any spare time I have after work I We eventually got married and we now basic tasks at first but, as each year try and get out to play a few holes, while have two lovely twins, a boy and a girl. passed, I got more responsibilities. My enjoying the beautiful golf course that I am They will be eight years old this year. main job now is mowing fairways. During proud to be part of. In January 2003 Monika and I and our my time at Dromoland Castle I have The Long House Field

he Long House Field is a picturesque little playing pitch, located in the heart of the countryside in County TTipperary. Originally the field was part of an estate owned by the resident landlord, Charlie Going. He allowed the local hurling team, the beloved Mulcaire Rovers, the use of the field for training and playing matches. When Charlie died his estate was divided up among the local farmers by the Land Commission. The Mulcaire Rovers Club was given the option of buying their field. Players and supporters of the club duly cycled around the parish and organized a variety of functions to collect donations for the purchase. Michael O’Brien, grandfather of well known sport pitch contractor Declan O’Brien, ran dances in McCormack’s Hall in Newport to raise Community spirit in action funds. The field was duly purchased and set of beer (for thirsty players after a strenuous but they were as nothing compared with up as a GAA Trust Field by the Mulcaire hour’s hurling). So, you can guess how the the top speed action in the Long House Rovers Club in 1948. Michael O’Brien was playing pitch got its name. Field. Numerous tractors and state-of-the- one of the five trustees appointed. It was inspiring to see the local turnout art machines were going full belt around Michael and his wife lived in a house for the recent field renovation, especially the field in perfect co-ordination. Up to adjacent to the field. It was known as “The on the day that Declan O’Brien’s high-tech twenty or more helpers were involved. Long House”. They were entrepreneurial machinery went into action. It was on the Many onlookers pulled in off the road to (like their grandson, Declan) and sold 12th of July, 2010. The Orangemen may view amazing, full-blooded community sandwiches, biscuits, minerals - and bottles have held marches in the North of Ireland, spirit in action. It was a sight to behold. www.gcsai.org 52 News ILI Conference Goes West Tallaght Stadium wins 2010 Airtricity Lahinch Golf Club situated on the rugged League Pitch of the Year Award West Atlantic coast in County Clare played host to the 4th Annual Conference of the Tallaght Stadium has won the 2010 Airtricity League Pitch Irish Links Initiative (ILI) on 12th and 13th October. Links clubs plus other dignitaries of the Year award, following an inspection by the Irish were represented at the conference, Institute of Sports Surfaces (IISS). including links superintendents, secretary/ managers, green convenors, club captains and overseas media. Over 70 delegates were he winner League added, present. Three work stations were set up on of the “The quality the links. award was of the playing Tannounced after surfaces in the Station 1 - Greens Old & New the IISS visited Airtricity League Brian McDonagh, Head Greenkeeper of Tallaght Stadium has improved the Old Course explained the maintenance and Turner’s Cross, immensely over programme of both the old and new which was also the last number greens and how important it is to keep shortlisted for the of seasons and them consistent in terms of trueness and award, following this is a credit to putting speeds. He talked about the various nominations by the the people in the inputs required to achieve this, despite the Airtricity League clubs who now different soil structure between old and referees and have developed new. He received many questions from the players, in association with the PFAI. the expertise in this area through FAI Club audience generating an open discussion. The award, which is organised by the Licensing. Shamrock Rover’s home ground FAI and IISS, and sponsored by specialist at Tallaght Stadium is a great example of Station 2 - Chafer Grub Damage sports turf fertiliser company OSMO, was the measured improvement and winning Paudie Grealish, Head Greenkeeper on presented at half time during the FAI Ford this award is a just reward for South Dublin the Castle Course manned this station Cup final at Aviva Stadium on November County Council’s decision to prioritise the along with Dr Ruth Mann (STRI) an 14th. quality of the playing surface.” expert on insects and pest control. They IISS Managing Director Donal Kearney Willie Sheils, Senior Executive Officer, demonstrated the severe damage that can said, “The Airtricity League Pitch of the Year Community Services Department of South be caused by chafer grubs and talked about Award has been created to highlight the Dublin County Council said; “South Dublin the high cost of control with which many hard work of ground staff, whose dedication County Council is delighted to have won the clubs are faced. Dr Mann emphasised and endeavours has often gone unnoticed. Airtricity League “Pitch of the Year” award. the point that, although these grubs are We hope that this award provides due This award is a reflection of the Council’s common to many links courses on the west recognition and will encourage others to determination to place the condition of coast, those on the east coast of Ireland are continue to improve the standards of the the playing surface at the top of its list of also in danger as there are no geographical playing surface. Our thanks to the Osmo priorities at Tallaght Stadium, but most of all boundaries. In many cases it is the birds Sportsturf company for their support.” is a tribute to Killian Byrne and his dedicated that cause most damage as chafers are Fran Gavin, Director of the Airtricity team at Sean Walsh Park Depot.” a good source of protein. There was no shortage of questions from the delegates at this busy station keeping Ruth and Paudie on their toes.

Station 3 - Coastal Erosion & Protection John Rouine, Lahinch Links Superintendent who handled this station, explained the severe damage part of the Lahinch links had suffered during Atlantic storms. He demonstrated how sea defences had been put in place, using chestnut fencing or trellis to trap sand behind the fencing, allowing marram grass to establish and spread to minimise the erosion. John pointed out how it is necessary to put a ‘protective cover fence’ in place during the winter to prevent sand blowing on to the exposed green and how these additional costs had to be borne in his management budget.

In the afternoon there was an active Q&A session with the ‘station leaders’ covering the morning activities.

53 greenside magazine | December 2010 Trade News

A Trio of Benefits New Distributor for Links Courses for JCB Utility from Barenburg Vehicle in Ireland

rand new from grass seed JCB has appointed Broderick Grass breeder Barenbrug is BAR Trio, Machinery in Dublin and Belfast as an innovative new 100 percent distributors of the JCB range of utility Bfescue blend specifically designed to vehicles. “We are very pleased to be provide the superior salt tolerance representing JCB in Ireland and to be required by links courses. responsible for sales of utility vehicles Part of the 2011 BAR Range, this said Noel Broderick. The JCB range latest product launch is the result of of vehicles consists of four and six Barenbrug’s extensive research and wheel diesel engined vehicles with a development commitment to finding a payload of up to 500kg. salt-tolerant fescue blend especially for golf users. u Left: Robbie Foley, Sales Director, BAR Trio contains a unique blend of Brodericks, Noel Broderick, Managing three Barenbrug slender creeping red Director, Brodericks and Simon fescues - 40 percent Viktorka, 30 percent Morley, Territory Sales Manager UK & Barcrown and 30 percent Barpearl. The Ireland, JCB. company’s research and development manager, Jayne Leyland, says the combined Make light work of leaf Clearance this strengths of these cultivars was key Autumn to finding a blend able to cope with s autumn the challenging has conditions set in, common to Aleaf clearance coastal links becomes an courses. arduous daily “This mixture task for those was specifically who maintain designed to provide superior salt open spaces. tolerance for fescue-dominant greens That task is on links and seaside courses exposed made easier to salt spray and salt-laden winds,” and quicker Jayne explains. “By combining these with the Imants cultivars, we were also able to provide RotoBlast from shoot density from a 100 percent fescue Campey Turf blend under regular close mowing Care Systems, a regimes down to 4mm. Other key tractor-mounted benefits include tolerance to red thread, blower designed improved drought tolerance and an to move leaves, attractive green colour all year round.” grass clippings, The Imants RotaBlast from Campey Turf Care Systems Full details of BAR Trio - together with thatch, litter and the other new mixtures and cultivars other unwanted surface debris from turfed to join the BAR Range for 2011 - are areas, pathways and car parks. contained in Barenbrug’s Sports & Attached to the 3-point linkage, the A video of the RotoBlast at work can be Amenity Grass Seeds 2011 catalogue. To RotoBlast is mounted on a wheeled viewed at http://www.campeyturfcare.com/ order your free copy call 01359 272000, chassis to allow contour following whilst exclusiveproducts/rotoblast.html email [email protected] or visit www. maintaining a constant nozzle height www.campeyturfcare.com barenbrug.co.uk. above the ground. The wheels can be inverted to revert to a fully-mounted option if required.

Indecent Proposal

“I want you to have my children. In fact you can have them right now, they’re out in the car.” www.gcsai.org 54 Trade News

Allett’s Electric Shelton continues to innovate! Fine-Turf Mower goes helton launched their new on the Charge Supertrencher+ range at SALTEX which is a dedicated trenching machine for Sdraining sportsfields. llett‘s has launched a new battery- powered fine-turf cylinder mower. This new machine combines loads of Known as ELMOW, the walk-behind customer requested features which all add Amachine is available with a choice of 510mm up to improved operator efficiency and (20in) or 610mm (24in) wide cutting units, both opportunities for increased profitability. fitted as standard with a 120mm (4.7in) diameter, For example, because soil conditions vary, 10-bladed cutting cylinder and a powered turf Shelton have included a new two speed groomer. digging wheel enabling the operator to select ELMOW’s rate settings that best suit the soil conditions of cut is 220 clips and an improved transverse conveyor layout per metre (199 minimising the chance of blockages. clips/yard), a rate Shelton have also redesigned the digging wheel assembly reducing the time taken to that is maintained change worn cutters and enabling operators to change cutters through the inspection irrespective of hatch at the back of the trencher hood rather than from below. working speed or And for improved transportation and easy access to the exit port, the main conveyor folds variations in speed. alongside the machine. Height of cut can be adjusted without tools from Further info: Mick Claxton - 01507578288 | www.sheltonsdrainage.com 2.4mm to 19mm (0.1in - 0.75in) using Allett’s established quick-height adjuster. Prototype testing over the past year by Allett engineers has shown that a fully-charged battery pack provides approximately four hours’ mowing, FENDT’s New 200 vario Tractor Range the actual time being dependent on grass length, height of cut and mowing gradients. endt is looking to its new 200 Vario over its working life is likely to surprise many ELMOW’s batteries take around eight hours to tractor range to spearhead the people who believe that the technology found recharge from “empty”, a process normally carried company’s entry into the grounds care, on Fendt tractors makes them expensive both Flandscaping and amenity sector. Comprising to own and run,” points out Richard Shelton, out overnight. ELMOW’s operating controls are laid out on five models with engine outputs from 70hp to National Sales Manager for the UK and adjustable handles fitted with anti-vibration 110hp, the Fendt 200 Vario range is aimed at Ireland. mountings. Forward and reverse speeds (up users looking for fuel economy and driving Mr Shelton explained that the quality of the to 5km/h and 2km/h respectively) are selected efficiency, key attributes made possible engineering and standard features on Fendt by left- and right-hand thumb controls with primarily by the use of Fendt’s Vario stepless tractors placed a premium on pre-owned individual hand levers provided to engage drive to continuously variable transmission. models, helping keep residual values high for the cutting cylinder and the two-piece aluminium Fitted to more than 100,000 Fendt tractors the benefit of those trading-in a Fendt for a rear roller. There is also a backlapping button built since the mid 1990s, Vario transmission new model. which, when engaged, reverses cylinder rotation is now standard across the company’s entire The second factor helping reduce ownership while simultaneously reducing cylinder speed by range following the launch of the 200 Vario costs is the technology and control systems 75 per cent. series. built into Fendt tractors, all of which are The mower’s powered grooming reel is the designed to improve operating efficiency and same unit as fitted to Allett’s well-established reduce fuel consumption. Tournament and C-Range models and uses thin Taking the Vario transmission as an example, vertical blades at 10mm spacings to lift lateral Mr Shelton said that the clutchless, stepless grasses immediately ahead of the cutting cylinder. system enables tasks to be performed faster The groomer can be raised out of work if not and more effectively, while providing the required. capability to set optimum ground speed An important safety feature is an automatic independent of engine speed within a range brake which engages when ELMOW is stationary, from 20 metres/hr to 40km/hr. Add Fendt’s releasing automatically when forward or optional Tractor Management System (TMS) reverse drive is selected. With full production of Fendt’s 200 Vario tractor range comprises five and the engine is regulated continuously to ELMOW scheduled to begin in good time for models with power outputs from 70hp to 110hp. run always at the optimum speed for the the 2011 mowing season, Allett is now planning The top-of-the-range 211V tractor pictured is specific job being carried out. demonstrations with a view to taking forward equipped with a purpose-designed Fendt Cargo “Complemented by its compact dimensions, orders over the coming months to ensure that front loader, available as an option on all 200 driver comfort and high power-to-weight ELMOW production levels match customer Vario models. ratio, Fendt’s 200 Vario series is set to bring demand. to the grounds care sector a new dimension In targeting the grounds maintenance sector in tractor performance, productivity and Price of the ELMOW 20 and 24 mowers, with its new 200 Vario series, Fendt is aiming economy of operation,” commented Mr including a battery pack and charger, is £5,400 to show customers that the cost of a tractor Shelton. and £5,650 respectively. should not be based solely on purchase price. Visit www.fendt.co.uk Visit www.allett.co.uk “The relatively low cost of owning a Fendt

55 greenside magazine | December 2010 Trade News

The new GP400 ride-on greens mower from Ransomes Jacobsen

ansomes Jacobsen has announced the the machine’s centre of gravity and a sump launch of the Jacobsen GP400 ride-on in the bottom alleviates fuel starvation on triplex greens mower. Replacing the slopes. The tank is hinged and can be lifted to Rpopular G-Plex III, the GP400 continues the provide much improved access to the engine innovation synonymous with Jacobsen name. compartment with a 70% wider opening than Production begins in December and the first on the G-Plex III. A moulded impression in machines will be available early in 2011. the tank is fitted with an elasticated cargo net This new mower retains many of the features to provide a carrying facility for wet weather of its predecessor including a swing-out centre clothing. unit for easy maintenance and adjustment, the A petrol-engined version of the GP400 has legendary cutting units with a choice of 7, 9 also been introduced, featuring a Briggs & or 11-blade cylinders and a Kubota 3 cylinder Stratton V twin, air cooled petrol engine, diesel engine developing 13.2KW at 3200 rpm. developing 13.2KW at 3400 rpm. However, the Ransomes Jacobsen design Although the petrol engine version engineers have introduced numerous is not sold across the UK and improvements. A new tank design Europe, like the G-Plex III it will incorporates the fuel and hydraulic reservoirs be exported to the USA, where ‘gas’ in a single moulded unit providing better powered mowers are the norm. Backlapping weight distribution and improved stability. is now standard on both diesel and petrol As the fuel tank empties it has less effect on models. Ransomes Jacobsen GP400 New Diesel Refuelling John Deere offers hybrid technology Unit from Course ohn Deere is offering customers the chance to buy its new 2500, 7500 and 8500 E-Cut hybrid greens and fairway mowers for the same price as the standard hydraulic versions. Care The offer is available at all John Deere UK and Irish professional turf dealers from now New from Course Care this year will be the Juntil 31st January 2011. It applies to any of these machines equipped with the company’s CEMO DT-Mobil Easy range of portable QA5 QuickAdjust 127mm (5in) diameter cutting cylinders, which provide rapid height diesel refuelling units. Available in 125, of cut adjustment from either side of the units. The advanced hybrid electrical system that 200 and 430 litres capacities these units drives these cutting units eliminates all hydraulic leak points from the reel drive circuit. This are ideal for transporting and refuelling on removes the potential for such leaks to cause damage to fairways and other fine turf areas, site. The most recent developments in oil without sacrificing overall reliability, power or cut quality. storage and fuel dispensing technology are incorporated into the latest bunded tanks and fuel stations from Harlequin and there are special Show offers during Harrogate Week. The Highspeed all steel Derv Packs have undergone improvements too and offer vandal-resistant fuel dispensing at affordable prices. Stop by Stand C13 at Harrogate Week and see what’s on offer! Course Care Highspeed Group Ltd Newbridge Industrial Estate Keighley BD21 4PQ Tel; 0845 600 3572 Fax: 01535 611546 “The benefit of getting an E-Cut hybrid mower for no extra cost over the equivalent e-mail: [email protected] hydraulic machine is obvious, particularly at a time when golf clubs are having to manage www.course-care.co.uk their costs more closely than ever,” says Henry Bredin, John Deere’s turf equipment Exhibition contact: David Mears marketing manager. “We have a full line of market proven hybrid machines and over five years of experience with the technology, which not only reduces noise levels but can also cut fuel consumption by up to 30 per cent. “Although hybrid reel drive is only available on the smaller QA5 cylinders, many customers who previously used a 7 inch diameter cutting unit are now moving to the 5 inch unit, but using heavier duty 3 inch rollers front and rear, rather than the normal 2 inch diameter rollers. “This growing trend has been led in particular by course managers looking to achieve a high quality of presentation, and the introduction of our new QuickAdjust cutting units.”

www.gcsai.org 56 Trade News

GCSAI Trade Members The GCSAI thank each and every one of our Trade Members for supporting us throughout these challenging times. Please support them when purchasing goods or services.

Company Name Contact Telephone Email Advanced Irrigation Ltd Karl Mahlke 01 8430431 [email protected] Advanced Landscape Services Karl Dooley 087 9402650 [email protected] Amenity Turf Supplies Shay Phelan 087 2765259 [email protected] Anthony D’Arcy Ltd Patrick Murphy 0402 38261 [email protected] Aquaturf Solutions Ltd Stephen Daly 086 0838747 [email protected] Atkins Grass Machinery Mark Wolfe 021 4933420 [email protected] Bayer Environmental Science Kenny Liddell 00441223 226680 [email protected] Campey Turfcare Systems Ltd Brian O’Shaughnessy 087 9274521 [email protected] Cooper Golf & Sportsfields Ltd Sloane Cooper 057 8735187 [email protected] Cropcare Ltd Rose O’Donovan 01 2874485 [email protected] Dar Golf Construction Ltd James D’Arcy 087 2573550 [email protected] Drummonds Ltd Rosalyn Drew 041 9838986 [email protected] Dublin Grass Machinery Robert Mitchell 01 8386867 [email protected] Eddie B. Connaughton Ltd Eddie Connaughton 01 6283300 [email protected] Evergreen Lawns John Jameson 048 7810225 [email protected] Goldcrop Ltd Mark Booker 087 9580110 [email protected] Harris Turf Improvements Mark Harris 087 2540166 [email protected] Horta Soils Ltd Priscilla McFarland 048 38852888 [email protected] Irish Grass Machinery Ltd Michael Smyth 01 8624188 [email protected] James Coburn & Son Ltd Bertie Bell 048 40662207 [email protected] JFB Golf Supplies Ltd Frank Byrne 087 2374285 [email protected] John Deere Ltd David Hart 00441949 860491 [email protected] John Lindsay Professional Sportsturf John Lindsay 048 38339229 [email protected] Kevin Broderick Ltd Kevin Broderick 01 2858011 [email protected] Leinster Lawns Eamon & Ian Fox 087 7735557 [email protected] Leinster Turf Equipment Ltd Derek Inglis 086 8308033 [email protected] Lely Ireland Ltd Richard harris 045 526170 [email protected] Major Equipment Eibhlin Murphy 094 9630572 [email protected] Martyns Grass Lawns Ltd Brian Martyn 093 38012 [email protected] MSK Silversands Ltd Michael Kelly 087 2887016 [email protected] National Agrochemical Distributors Ltd Liam McMahon 01 8437808 [email protected] Rain Bird Europe Kneale Diamond 00447979 651765 [email protected] Ransomes Jacobsen Ltd Greg Spray 00441473 276368 [email protected] Reel-Tech Barry Drennan 087 1221889 [email protected] Sanrose Ltd Bernard Kinsella 053 9137208 [email protected] SOL Golf Course Construction Ltd. Michael O’Leary 064 7751006 [email protected] Spraychem Golf Ltd Yvonne Ritchie 01 8293990 [email protected] Teagasc Pat Suttle 01 8459032 [email protected] The Scotts Company Colman Warde 087 7799527 [email protected] TurfCare Group Pat Galavan 045 409330 [email protected] Unichem Ltd Niall Dunne 01 8351499 [email protected] Water Detox Solutions Ltd Angelo O’Connor 087 2420195 [email protected] Whites Agri Jer Doran 01 8438521 [email protected]

57 greenside magazine | December 2010 President’s Report by Michael Loughran, Hilton Templepatrick

Contact Points Scotts the way to do it - The GCSAI President’s Cup Alan Mahon (Communications Manager) Rathjarney Piercestown, Co. Wexford. ongratulations to all players who represented their regions battling it out at Dromoland Castle for this year’s Presidents Cup. There is a full report in this Tel/Fax: 053 9158606 Mobile: 087 6260889 issue of Greenside so there is no need for me to go into details on results, no Email: [email protected] Cpoint in rubbing salt into unhealed wounds. I would like to say a personal ‘Thank You’ to Paul Coleman, Superintendent at Michael Loughran (President and NI Rep) Dromoland Castle for making us feel very welcome and for all his assistance in Hilton Templepatrick - (0044) 797 4229343 ensuring that the event was such a success. Also a personal shout out to Trevor Norris, Email: [email protected] Superintendent at Dromoland Castle’s sister course at Castlemartyr resort, who paid us a visit that evening to ensure that the event carried on into an unreasonable hour. Last but not least, a very special thanks to The Scotts Company for their continued Damian McLaverty (Vice- President) support for this annual event. It was great to see Scotts so well represented at the Ballinasloe Golf Club - 086 8301048 event and we look forward to developing the GCSAI’s national team golf event in Email: [email protected] partnership with them. GCSAI / GCSAA Partnership Michael McFeely (Hon. Sec & FEGGA Rep) Another partnership that I am delighted to say is continuing to grow, is the relationship Westmanstown Golf Club - 087 234 2051 between our own association and the GCSAA. Over the last couple of years we Email: [email protected] have intensified our communication with the GCSAA board members and this has resulted in the signing of a partnership agreement between the two associations. Bobby McDermott (Education Officer) At the end of September we met with four members of the GCSAA board in Foxrock Golf Club - 086 2627839 Cardiff. They had travelled over for the Ryder Cup at Celtic Manor later that week. Documentation was signed by myself and Jim Fitzroy, the current President of the Email: [email protected] GCSAA. This formalised partnership is a very significant step forward for both our association and every individual GCSAI member. Paddy Holohan (P.R.O. & G.T.C. Rep) Well done to Paddy Holohan for the time and effort he put into assisting with this, Dundalk Golf Club - 087 0517043 I would also like to thank Mark Kuhns, the immediate Past President of the GCSAA Email: [email protected] for the personal attention and effort that he put into it, particularly during the early stages of the process. Tom Carew (Treasurer) Charity day Craddockstown Golf Club - 087 6260182 Well done to all involved in the GCSAI charity golf day held at Naas Golf Club on Email: [email protected] the 27th September, for running another very successful event. David Behan and the organising committee deserve immense credit for this annual charity event. Proceeds David Behan (Immediate Past President) from our Charity day go to the Irish Cancer Society. Naas Golf Club - 086 8269242 The Sportsturf Conference 2011 Email: [email protected] The GCSAI executive have for the past few months been working on the association’s annual educational conference, which is being held once again on the first Wednesday Michael F. O’Connor (SW Rep) and Thursday of March. This time, however, we will be implementing several changes Killarney Golf & Fishing Club - 087 1276764 to the conference format. Email: [email protected] These format changes include, the conference starting with key note presentations in the morning as usual, before then splitting into smaller rooms for the afternoon presentations, allowing for some variety and choice for attending delegates. There Jason Podris (NW Rep) will also be a small exhibition floor allowing delegates the real opportunity to prepare Galway Bay Golf Resort - 087 1222697 for the coming season with trade representatives supplying all necessary products Email: [email protected] and willing to do business. I would strongly encourage everyone to keep these dates free as the benefits of attending, both for your club and for each individual delegate, should not be passed up. John Egan (NE Rep) These developments in the GCSAI’s annual educational event, we believe, will keep Rathfarnham - 086 3470388 the GCSAI’s event as the premier Sportsturf Educational Conference and must attend Email: [email protected] networking opportunity for all in the Sportsturf industry. Finally, I would like to wish everyone a peaceful and enjoyable Christmas and as we Trevor Dargan (SE Rep) all begin to prepare for the start of a new year, I would like to stress to all members Woodenbridge - 086 1721640 not to hesitate in contacting any member of the executive or regional committees, if they feel that we could help in anyway (legally of course) with your preparations. Email: [email protected] Regards, GCSAI Website: www.gcsai.org Michael

www.gcsai.org 58 Greenside

59 greenside magazine | December 2010