Section Notes Please email your notes to [email protected] by the 5th of the month All the latest news from your Section Around The Green

College as he offered a lot of his which was very well attended. Scottish Region knowledge to up and coming The coastal courses suffered young greenkeepers . Graham as well with exceptional storms being from a greenkeeping back- at the end of March combining ground who previously worked one of the highest tides of the alongside Andrew Mellon at past 50 years with strong North Elmwood. Graham is moving on East winds to leave many places West to teach at Myerscough College. damaged. Crail, Kingsbarns East We wish him all the best. and others all lost a piece of The sun is shinning as I sit and Still with Oatridge College this the coastline to the sea. or else I start my report for this write this article which makes a lady needs no introduction to had part of the beach washed month with reminders of the slight difference from the recent our greenkeeping Industry. up and deposited on a fairway harsh winter that we have all rain and snow, so spring has Eileen Barry is calling it a along with tree trunks stones etc experienced. Certainly the worst sprung eventually, and growth day after 28 years as Oatridge and similar stories can be heard winter that I can ever remember. will be sprouting from all areas College Liaison Officer. So many from Aberdeen to the borders. to fill in the damage caused by On the east Lothian coastline success stories have came out of At St Andrews, a sea wall on some of the courses have been the snow mould attack in Feb- the greenkeeping world and a lot the Eden Estuary just beyond ruary/March. What a winter hit with what could be termed as of this is down to Eileen’s hard the boundary of the Eden course a “mini tsunami”! Coastal ero- that was, let’s hope we get a good work and enthusiasm. was washed away flooding three summer to cheer everybody up sion has lead to some golf holes I am only one of many green- holes on the Eden and three on being partially washed away. for a change. keepers who would like to thank the Strathtyrum course every Only a couple of things to Let’s hope the summer makes Eileen for the honesty, profes- time the tide came in, while the mention as March was a fairly up for it. sionalism and dedication that Swilcan burst its banks and sea quite month. By the time you read this she has shown throughout the water spilled onto the 1st green The West Section was recently report our Spring meeting at years and wish her all the best and fairway of the Old Course. represented at a charity event in Kilspindie GC will be history, for the future. Fortunately the damage appears aid Bernardo’s Children’s Home June edition of GI will reveal all Tom Murray to just be discolouration to the by our present and past Chair- of the scores. grass where the water sat for men and myself playing over the At the beginning of May we Tom Murray a period although silt deposits Duke’s Course in St Andrews are running a Pest Control event on the Eden fairways from the but sadly we didn’t live up to (No not how to get rid of some neighbouring fields may yet expectations. The course was complaining golfers), but mole prove more troublesome. in great condition for the time trapping and vermin control over Our next education evening two days. This event is kindly is on May 19 at Elmwood Train- of year and the event was well sponsored by Mike Dooner, of Central ing Room at 6.30pm when Rex organised by the students at Thorntree Amenity. If you are Kimberly, of Terralift, will talk Elmwood College. The eventual registered 1.5 credit points are As I write this I hope we are on nitrogen fixing bacteria. Rex winners were Turnberry on 84 awarded for event. coming to the end of one of the is an experienced speaker and I points. Our Secretary, Stuart Fer- worst winters most of us in the am sure it will be an entertaining Please remember that the guson, is on the lookout for old industry can remember, four evening as well as informative. Scottish National event to be SIGGA East Section memora- months of snow, ice, rain and Meanwhile Gordon McKie has held at Murcar will be on June bilia ie photographs, letters, wind have kept courses closed started a blog on the trust 17. stories, trophies .medals etc. If with little or no income making it website www.standrews.org. A report on the spring outing you have anything of interest a difficult time for everyone. The uk on the preparations for the at Lanark GC will be given next please contact Stuart. inland courses such as Crieff, Open Championship. month, and I will include the People on the move are David Auchterarder and Gleneagles Main winners at the Spring STRI talk on wetting agents Kelly, formally my apprentice have been open for as little as 10 outing are as follows: Best which is being held at Loch at Ratho Park and presently days since mid December, with Scratch, Allan Patterson, The Lomand on April 20. at Marriott Dalmahoy. who is a second fall of snow in March Castle Course - 71 I would like to extend best moving on to pastures green meaning some were still closed Best Hcp. Dougie Barr, Caird wishes to Gordon Kerr, of Marr where he will take up the new into April. Trees down, disease Park - 67 nett. Section 1, Archie Hall, as his course is now ready post in Holland on a new Colin scars and ice damage have Dunn, Auchterarder - 68 nett for play and opened last month Montgomerie 36 hole design affected many courses while Section 2, Derek Scott, Scoonie (April). The Section hopes every- complex. We wish David every others, despite the snow cover, - 70 nett. Trade prize - Kenny thing went well on the day and success for the future. appear to have come through Hunter of Fairways. Guest prize we wish him and his staff all the Other people on the move are virtually unscathed. - Mike Horkan, Property Man- best for the future. Graham Bryce, who held the It was an appropriate time ager at St Andrews Links Full May I also extend the Section’s position of greenkeeping lecturer for Stan Zontek and friends to results are on the website www. best wishes for the future to at Oatridge College. Graham give a presentation on winter biggacentralsection.org.uk Denis Tweddell who started his will be a big miss from Oatridge damage at Elmwood on April 27 Gordon Moir new position as Course Man-

48 GI MAY 2010 ager in Germany. Let’s hope the and who won what at Deeside until next month but there will language problems aren’t too GC. be results and if I remember to great and you benefited from all That’s all for this month take the camera, pictures on our those night class lessons. guys, as usual if you do have new facebook group. Likewise Brian Hillan is trying to any news give me a shout on hopefully you will be able to see organise football as a couple of 07813889374. pictures of the CONNECT days challenges have been issued by North Ben Brookes that took place at Conwy Golf other Sections, so those people Murcar Links Club recently. interested should contact him Where do I start this month? Pete Maybury on his mobile 07721610160 or The weather is up to its old [email protected] on e-mail [email protected]. tricks again. While I was sun- Northern Region 07756001187 co.uk. ning myself in Tenerife with the Finally. a couple of items to family the snow decided to make cover, firstly, Gavin Jarvis, our a return in the Easter holidays. Section Secretary is compiling Shame. It didn’t last too long a list of all e-mail addresses and though and it was only here for would like as many people as a day. I think though further possible to contact him with North it was still hanging around their details, his number is a couple of weeks later. Northern North East 07725363715. Hopefully your season is The second item relates to under way, I’m sure many of you Hello everyone hope you are all Well what news do we have all members news matters, are still putting the final touches well. The committee are sorry to his month as usual the phone please contact me for interest- to your Winter programmes. say we had to cancel the Spring hasn’t stopped ringing with info! I think not. But, surprise ing items worth a mention in I know next door at Royal Seminar, due to a poor response surprise, I do have some news. the magazine, weddings, births, Aberdeen they have been very from the membership and one of the speakers was unexpectedly Looks like there’s going to be lots sponsored runs etc, or anything busy. They have added another taken ill. I am, however, pleased of movement around the Sec- of note contact 0141-942-5554, eight bunkers to their course (as to report he is now making a full tion as Close House, Hexham or 07790823914, or my e-mail if it’s not difficult enough!) and recovery. A big thanks to all who and Matfen Hall have all been [email protected]. they have extended the blue tee did expressed an interest in the advertising for staff. Until next month at the 4th to a 464 yard -4. seminar, hopefully we will be able Right, here goes. David Stuart Taylor If you don’t already know they are holding the Walker Cup next to reorganise it at a later date. Thompson, who has worked at year and these improvements The date & time has been set for Matfen for the last eight years are for this competition. I’m sure our Autumn golf tournament & has taken over from Michael there will be further alterations AGM, September 29, first tee 10 McKenna at Hexham. As you before the tournament begins. am. Sorry there is no more news, all know Michael has gone up to Richard Mullen, of Meldrum I hope by the time you are reading Loch Lomond. James Leighton, House GC, is a proud new this I will have seen lots of you at who has been working at the the spring golf tournament. If you prestigious Wentworth GC for Ayrshire dad again. His wife gave birth to another girl, Cara, who was have any news or gossip PLEASE the last 18 months, has started at born on April 2 weighing in at pass it on to me, Frank Stewart, Close House. Kevin Wright, who A very busy period is upon us 8lbs 1oz. Congratulations and 72 West Park Grove, Roundhay, was at Slaley, has also moved again and with a little warmth we hope both mother and baby Leeds, LS8 2DY. Phone 07947 to Close House as well and I now creeping into the ground are doing well. 401278 believe that a Mr J. Saunders, & our old friend the rain we are Richard ‘Dicky’ Pirie, my old Frank Stewart who worked at Gosforth GC, sure to be kept on our toes! work mate at Newmachar, has has moved to Matfen Hall. Let’s I wonder how the Masters last become a granda for the first hope that’s the last of moves for month has affected our club time. His daughter, Debbie, a while. I recently heard that the members? Will their expecta- gave birth to baby, Chloe, weigh- Priestman course at Slaley Hall tions still be as high after the ing in at 7lbs 2oz. She must be is going to be altering all of its winter we had?....Course they nearly as big as you mate. Hope bunkers in the next few weeks will! So we greenkeepers must they’re doing well and I’m sure or I should say months, the way continue to provide quality sur- you’ll soon be called on for some North Wales weather has been. I hope that faces so early on in the season. babysitting duties. it picks up pretty damn quick Keep up the good work lads! We Also at Newmachar the Head This time of year we can look as I thought we have had a bad will get it right one day eh! Mechanic, Sandy Gammack, forward to the grass flushing winter but with Slaley being a lot A congratulations is due to has been in hospital recently and more than the toilet at an incon- higher they had their fair share George Morrison, of Largs Kel- just to let you know that all your tinents’ convention, but at least of snow. burn GC. George and Maggie are friends and work colleagues are now is the time to bang in some Another bit of news recently expecting a little visit from the thinking of you. Hopefully you’ll overtime to bring us up-to-date read about was that The Nor- stork sometime in July. Won’t have plenty of banter with the with the Bank Manager after thumberland GC has been be spending as much time on hospital staff and I’m sure you’ll such a savings draining winter. chosen to hold the regional the old Land Rover now, George! have a garage set up in the car We now have a facebook group qualifying for The Open in 2013. We wish you both and your little park ready to fix their cars! called “North Wales B.I.G.G.A” I know it seems along way off but bundle of joy all the best when There is a new man in charge so if you’re on facebook you can doesn’t time fly these days. So the time comes. at Letham Grange. Keith Law find Section events listed there well done to Head Greenkeeper, Remember guys this is your has been placed in charge on a and also space to chat to other Gordon Proudlock, and his staff Section news, So any news, Any trial basis. Hopefully this goes group members. they must be doing something goss, Anything you would like to well for you, Keith, and good luck I hope everyone who went to right as not every golf club get be seen in the mag let me know. with all your efforts in keeping Caernarfon Golf Club for the that chance to host a qualifier Letham a great course to visit Spring tournament enjoyed for The Open. John Mair. and play. themselves, at time of going to And last, but not least, I was [email protected] In next month’s issue I shall print, I’m afraid I cannot give talking to Steve Pope and he was 07500874449 have all the runners and riders any write up about the day showing me a magazine that he

MAY 2010 GI 49 Around The Green still had way back in 1984. My we will have some of Laurence’s the arrival of their son, Finlay, derland! God how has that changed over workshops in the NW. Richard on Sunday, April 4. Many sleep- P.S I’m not a Sunderland fan the years, seeing is believing. Minton followed next talking less nights for you now, Phil. Any news, or verbal abuse Anyway we were reminiscence about the sustainable use of Congratulations to Richard after the last section, kevscarce@ on all the Regional and National Pesticides, there were many Pybus, at Blackwell, who has aol.com or 07921817857 competitions there were in those thought provoking comments been promoted to Deputy Head days no doubt only the older about current and future legis- Greenkeeper. James Parker, also greenkeepers will remember lations. After lunch Bob Taylor, from Blackwell, has been invited them lets see if any other mem- from the STRI, talked about to join the BIGGA Support team bers and Sections can here goes developing a competitive, the this year for The Open at St Marshall Concessionaires, Iseki, amount of information that man Andrews. This follows working Hayter, Jacobsen, Kubota Golf can get across in 45 minutes is at the BMW PGA Championship Challenge and the Ransome unbelievable - topics ranged and the European Open last year Sheffield International which was played from rough to trees, from ponds 2009, well done to you both. as The National Greenkeepers to dead-wood and from sus- Our spring tournament was I hope everyone is now finally Competition, plus over three tainability master planning to held at Golf Club settling into the new season and years on a point basis so the top Hemi-views, all very interesting on March 23. The event was that we are all working in glori- three players would represent and I for one will be contacting very well attended and the main ous sunshine. against other countries Bob in the near future to Hemi- sponsor of the day was Lloyd of Unfortunately we had to around the world. Sadly we don’t view Hesketh or something like Bishop Auckland, represented cancel our Grinding/Workshop have anymore competitions like that. The final speaker of the day by Alister Whitby, so thanks for management day due to lack that these days but I suppose it’s was Tim Lobb, from Thompson your continual support. Other of interest. I must apologise to down to money. All I can say on Perritt and Lobb Golf Design, sponsors included, in no par- those who wanted to attend that matter thanks to all those Tim gave a detailed insight ticular order, Boxer Chemicals, and we shall be trying to reor- Jimmy Richardson on the workings of Tacit, Turfcare and Northern ganise the day later on in the architecture past and present. Lubricants. year. Thanks to Golf and Turf While not just talking about Results. Category1. 1. Ian Machinery for their help trying his own company Tim showed Stuart, 41pts; 2. Dave Cuthbert- to organise this day. how an architect goes about son, 35pts; 3. Danny Simpson, Our first Golf match of the tackling golf course changes 35 pts on countback. Category season will be upon us shortly taking into consideration all the 2. 1. John Talbot, 35pts; 2. Ian hopefully you will all have factors affected by the redesign, Holoran, 34pts; 3. James Parker received your invitations and will North West again another very interesting 34pts, on countback. Category be dusting the clubs off. You will talk ending a very good day, the 3. 1. Ian “The Bandit” Pember- all be receiving Our 2010 fixture So then Easter has come and four of us travelling the 80 miles ton, 35pts; 2. Kev Scarce, no card soon but hear is a list of the gone and we here in the North back to Hesketh had plenty to points because I had to retire competitions and venues for the West have just had our first talk about and all found the day due to an extremely serious year. tournament, obviously, I’m writ- worthwhile. Again thanks to thumb injury. Annual Competition- Hills- ing this in advance so let’s just Peter for setting up the seminar A ball hit hit me on the thumb borough GC, July 7. Autumn say thanks to all the new faces and also the setting at Penrith and needless to say I received Competition- Silkstone GC Sep- at the event it was great to see it was excellent, the course looked zero sympathy for my wound. tember 13. Sheffield vs Northern well supported. Unfortunately, I great and the cleaner who Anyway on with the rest of the match- Wooley Park, July 14. couldn’t attend as I had already ordered our Bacon rolls early prizes, Nearest the pin was won Christmas Competition- Lin- booked a round at Turnberry, in the morning was a star. Och by Gary Frazer, Longest Drive drick GC, November 29. which couldn’t be cancelled. well, I’ve probably talked too Ian Stewart, best par 3s Ian It would be nice to see as I am writing this at the begin- much now, hope all goes well for Stewart, and finally best par 5s many of you as possible at ning of April, the 8th to be exact. the coming month… was won by Danny Simpson. these competitions. I must also I’ve just returned home from Peter McVicar All in all it was a great day and remind everyone that we must the Northern Region Seminar 07885347818 was well attended. Thanks to adhere to the dress code at all at Penrith Golf Club, the topic [email protected] Head Greenkeeper, Tony, and our events the dress code will be being “The next decade”. Peter his staff the course was in great on the invitation to all events. Larter had put together a great condition, and a big thank you James Stevens programme of speakers. The to Seaton Carew Golf Club for [email protected] morning started with Tracey having us on the course and a big 07738719614 Maddison talking about how thanks to the catering staff and CPD was developing and how clubhouse staff for a nice meal BIGGA was advancing with and making us all feel very wel- Midland Region relationships with GCMA and Cleveland come. The day was also attended the PGA, to name but two, fol- by Peter Larter, BIGGA Regional lowing Tracey was Laurence Hi all, not got much news to Administrator and Tracey Mad- Pithie,(who I remember get- report this time around. Hope dison, Head of Membership ting his MGC when I was a you are all well and rearing to go Services. It was nice to have you young 16yr old at Cannington for this season. both. College,(he’s aged better than On Thursday, February 25 Thanks also to Ian Pemberton me)). Laurence talked about at Teesside Golf Club, Baz and for once again organising the golf East Midlands getting the basics right when it Ally held their annual quiz. The day and organising the prizes. comes to greenkeeping, I had night was great success and Final congratulations must go Hi everyone, I hope you are all brought along my Deputy, Sec/ was well put together as always. to Newcastle United FC on their enjoying the warming weather. I Manager and Greens Convener Thanks to Baz and Ally for their promotion back to the Premier am happy to report that we have to the event, the latter being very hard work. League, they can now enjoy a some news for the East Mid- impressed with Laurence, hope- Congratulations to Phil Har- short stay back in the top league lands Section. There is a PGA fully in the not too distant future grave and his wife, Suzanne on with the big clubs such as Sun- Seniors Tour event to be held at

50 GI MAY 2010 Around The Green Stapleford Park on May 12, 13 ton Golf Club, July 19. Autumn: South West and demolishing my garden fence and 14. Matthew Edge is looking Beau Desert Golf Club, October and roaming around the golf for volunteers to help prepare 7. Christmas: Woburn Golf South Wales course to seek pastures new. the course. There will be many Club, December 2. Our thanks The horses must of thought it of the old favourites playing so to these most generous Clubs for Region was Christmas...well it was! So will be a good experience for all affording us such opportunity to with the help of some of mem- who attend. If you are interested play what can only be described bers we did eventually manage in helping Matthew out, then as four delicious venues straight to turn them out in the torrential please contact him on 07989 out of the top draw. Also thanks rain, but at the expense of some 356 145. Everyone by now to Rhys for yet again instigat- serious damage to the greens should have their pair’s fixtures; ing and organising such. With and some tired and fed up green it is shaping up to be a good year staff. such wonderful courses on offer South Coast this year with some new courses I hope that you will support On a personal note. I attended in the competition. Once again a two day presentation skills our Section by attending these To begin with I have to men- if anybody has any news then both enjoyable and network- workshop at BTME, I had the tion that South Coast Section pleasure of the company of please contact either myself or ing educational days with the Andy de Wet. Spring Comp is fast approaching the then BIGGA Chairman added bonus of maybe wining Matthew Wormald and that the info will be sent to elect-Paul Worster; Stuart, from one of the many great prizes on all Section members very soon. St Annes Old Links, and Alec, offer as provided by our many Just a reminder that the win- from Newbury/Crookham. We generous sponsors. Talking of ners on the day gain automatic spent a lot the time learning and sponsors, our thanks to Bur- entry to the National Champion- putting together presentations rows Grass Machinery for this ship, sponsored by Kubota and and we found out a bit about month’s calendar page. For your Charterhouse Redexim, later in each other through them. Sorry Ransomes and Jacobsen sales, the year. guys you had to listen to me talk Midland service and spares please call: The venue is the beautiful and about the famous Rams (Derby 0870-242-6952. picturesque Bramshaw GC, County FC) for five minutes. Oh Firstly this month I would It is with great happiness on Thursday May 13,(I’m sure yeah, Mr Chairman, I will get like to apologise for the lack of that I can report that two of our Jason and his team are looking my revenge on you one day...you notes for both February and members have had a visit from forward to it!). We will be play- know what I mean eh! Joking March of this year, such was the old stork, and I don’t mean ing 9 holes on the challenging aside best wishes during your composed and emailed to H.Q. margarine. Forest course before lunch; then time in office, Paul. but unfortunately they did not Firstly, Mark Cutler, of 18 holes on the Manor followed Back at BMGC due to more receive such, for some unfath- Edgbaston, and his lovely wife, by dinner and presentation, heavy rain this week our Mainte- omable reason! “It’s only milk”. Sara, with a bouncing baby girl, the price yet to be confirmed nance Week has been cancelled.. However, there is, of course, the Lucy. Well there goes your golf, will be around the £22 mark. more headaches....I’m sure cream that our Section is so reli- Mark. Secondly, our Chair, Ed I’m hoping we manage to get the things will improve soon and by ant upon, such being the kind Stant, and his ever suffering excellent support we had at the the time your reading this it will sponsorship of our many golf wife, Tracey, (sorry I got it wrong Turkey Trot. be too warm for us and the grass and educational events, and of last time lass) have had a big With no other news to pass will be going mad. I wish you all course our wonderful calendar. lipped (not my words) crack- on, if your ready for your sleep a great season ahead. My greatest apologies must go ing girl, Jemima. Ed you look at tea break then continue Kevan Glass to those kind calendar page nothing like Jagger, your belly’s reading as I’m going to tell you sponsors who were featured in too big for a start, and as it’s a bit about life at Brockenhurst the missed publications. Such your second your golf is already Manor during this seemingly being; January’s page, Abbey out of the window (is that the endless winter. After the continuous rain of Mowers, please consider them round one!). Seriously though, November, the freezing tem- for your machinery needs, espe- welcome to the world, Lucy and peratures and ice of December, cially regarding Toro products Jemima, and congratulations to www.abbeymowers.co.uk. Feb- and the snow in January, it gave their proud parents. South Wales ruary’s page, Turner Ground- me a chance to embark (excuse And finally, just time to remind scare, also for your machinery the pun) on our much needed Hope you are all well. all to get their entries for this requirements, particularly Woodland Management pro- I will start off by bringing you year’s Scotts Doubles Knockout John Deere machines www. gramme, although the majority a report on two recent evening Competition in by the spring turnergroundscare.co.uk .And of the work is hopefully going to events that were organised by tournament, where the draw March’s page, Matt Gresty/Pro- be carried out by tree specialists, our Section and the South Wales will as usual be conducted. I do fessional Amenity Grass Seed John Nicholson Associates. We branch of the IOG. (specialist). Please email Matt suspect that us mere mortals have spent many frozen hours First was a trip to The Swalec for all of your seed requirements will stand a greater chance this clearing around greens and Stadium for the rearranged talk on matthew.gresty@limagrain. year as the dynamic partnership tees to improve air circulation by Keith Exton, Head Grounds- co.uk . For those interested in that has almost dominated this and sunlight, the feedback from man at the ground. Keith gave a the two missing back instal- event for many years has been members has been encourag- very good presentation entitled ments, such can be found on forced to split. So please get your ing, especially as we now have ‘In at the deep end’ on the work our Section’s website; www. entries in and support this long some stunning views of the New carried out at the ground in biggamidlandsection.com . running popular event. With the Forest, while standing on some preparation for the Ashes test. Our fixtures for the fore final being the wonderful prize tees instead of the previous walls There then followed a Q&A coming season are; Spring: of playing at Wentworth and as of holly and very little light. session with some searching Trentham Golf Club, May 17 a guest of our fine sponsors for I did manage to unintention- questions from the attendees, (late entries will be accepted due the day by Scots such is surely ally find a way to get the green then guests were treated to a to the above cited, please call £6 well invested staff back into shape after the lovely buffet. Thanks to Keith for Gary: 07780-953-764 to book Sorry for reiteration, festive period, when we had a his excellent presentation, to the your place). Summer: Edgbas- Sean McDade. rogue herd of new forest ponies South Wales IOG for organising

MAY 2010 GI 51 Around The Green the rearranged event, to every- Anyway, here’s to an enjoyable Warren (Staddon Heights). Well South East Region body (about 20) who turned and stress free growing season done to all and many thanks to up and to Peter Holstrom and for you all! all the sponsors. Countrywide for sponsoring the Ceri Richards The next meeting for us will be event. 07831 168645 the “Devon v Cornwall” Match Next was the visit to Ffos Las [email protected] on the 15th June at St Mellion Racecourse, where about 30 International. More details to people braved the inclement follow. weather to enjoy an interesting Good luck to everyone for the Kent evening in the company of Mr season. Tim Long, Clerk Of The Course, George Pitts who gave us an informative 07929 754401 As life slowly returns to our guided tour of the course and [email protected] courses after the longest winter all its state-of-the-art facilities. Devon and Cornwall ever an increasingly smile seems A great evening was rounded off to be re-appearing on the faces with a powerpoint presentation March’s Meeting at Mullion of Course Managers I meet, who on the construction of the course Golf Course down on the Lizard are all relieved to be out there peninsula was a great success. and then a nice buffet! Thanks cutting grass again. again to the IOG and Country- 40 members made the trip to It’s amazing the difference 12 wide for their organisation and Mullion, which for many was a months can make. In previous support for this event and to long trip. It was worth every mile South West Tim and Alwyn Morgan, Head though, as Gordon Tamblyn, years my watering system was being used on a regular basis at Groundsman, and everyone at Course Manager, had the course Hello everyone, I trust you’re Ffos Las for their hospitality. in superb condition. On a dry all well. I’m sure you’ll all agree this time as the summer season The Section’s first golf day of but windy day (apparently just when I say how great the weather began. This year has seen a the year will take place at Tre- a breeze for Mullion) the course has been the last week or so... return to more traditional sea- floyne GC on Friday, May 21, played extremely well and the (I do hope it remains while you sonal weather pattern forcing and is once again sponsored by views from the bottom holes read this) After the winter we the retreat of the global warming Tower Sport Europe, so thanks were outstanding. 25 members had, this weather is the least we brigade and their preachings of joined Gordon on an extremely in advance to them for their deserve, if you ask me a little bit doom and gloom. There’s always continued support. Tee off is at interesting Course Walk. We all of the Caribbean sun would be a bright side eh! met back at the very friendly 1.30pm. The schedule for the just fine. and accommodating Clubhouse Not much to tell you about day will be different this year As with most of you, I’m sure, for what was a very welcome this month. By the time you read in that there will be a running we’ve just started to spread a lunch. The Carvery and desert this we would probably have buffet so you don’t have to wait little bit of the magic stuff to help a long time for your meal if you was plentiful, leaving 40 very played our National qualifying everything grow, this always happen to be one of the first out. satisfied customers. After lunch, tournament at Wildernesse on seems like a pretty good idea at Also there will be a ‘smart casual’ Brian Robinson, Rigby Taylor, the time only to realise we have May 6. Full report on all the dress code. So if you have been Director of Grass Seed Research, a four day weekend just around day’s events to appear in this asking for these changes in gave a fascinating and in-depth the corner. Mind you it’ll still be column next month. routine then please support the insight into grass seed research there on the Tuesday so, I do I would like to thank Neil idea with your presence! It’s up and in what direction the indus- hope you all have/had an enjoy- Metcalf, and his team at Royal to you! try is being lead. Enthesis was able Easter bank holiday! St. George’s, for his hospitality Also, this event has been placed on reducing inputs and Just recently I received a very scheduled for a Friday, so that improving carbon footprints a couple of weeks ago when nice e-mail from Ian Huggle- it could be turned into a social and how it will play a huge part a group of us were given the event with people having a night in the future management of stone. Ian been an Associate privilege of the freedom of his out in Tenby with the possibility amenity areas. Many thanks to Member with BIGGA for four immaculate course. Neil’s chat of discounted accommodation Brian for making the long trip years now, and comments on with us beforehand (despite the the great times he’s had during at Trefloyne. You are more than and for giving such an enthu- noise from the skip lorry!) was a this time. Last year Ian took a welcome to bring your loved one siastic and thought provoking great insight into what goes into too if you wish (or failing that, presentation. break from work. However this summer he would like to offer maintaining such a prestigious the wife!) Again, it sounds like The Golf format for the day venue. Even though we only a great idea, but needs partici- was individual Stableford with his services and maybe help had a walk round the course, pation. So if you are interested prizes sponsored by Bayer. In out on a golf course with you the incredible level of difficulty then please give Steve Chappell first place was Mike Ellis, Lake (this would be within the Bristol a ring. View GC, with 35 pts, second area). With such a busy time of players face from the back tees That’s it for this month! By the was Andrew Dunstan, Newquay year coming up, I’m sure some was off the scale. Thanks also time you’ve read this then hope- GC, with 32 pts and third was of you may need every little help to Glenn Kirby for his efforts in fully either Cardiff City or the Tim Ellis, Mullion GC, with 31 you can get on the golf course. organising the day. Swans will be in The Premier- pts. There were 2x Longest drives Please contact me if you may Like I said, just a short one ship, and some of their fans, if and 2x Nearest the pin. One set have an interest in his services. this month but please check our they meet in the play-offs, will sponsored by Farmura and the I’ll be honest with you this webpage now it is being updated month people, I am a little short not be in jail! The mighty Scar- other very kindly sponsored by regularly. We have now added lets, however, will be out of the Gordon Tamblyn, Mullion GC. of things to write about (this is a forum, which I would really Heineken Cup for next season Longest drive on the 4th and where I ask for your thoughts/ appreciate your comments, and will instead be playing some Nearest the pin on the 16th stories or even a little light banter ‘pop and crisps’ cup! Never was won by Keith Kemp (West that you may like to share with stories, experiences etc. on. mind, at least (after a recent visit Cornwall), Nearest the pin on us). Back to cutting grass now. to The Liberty Stadium) our fans the 11th was won by Des Bickle adam.l.matthews@hotmail. Best of British can sing and are not too busy (Bigbury) and Longest drive on co.uk Rob Holland eating prawn sandwiches! the 18th was won by Shaun 07732503855 www.kentgreenkeepers.com

52 GI MAY 2010 Around The Green

be over. Well done to the winners and I hope you all enjoyed the day at South Essex Golf Club. Results will be posted next month. I mentioned last month that John Surrey I would be giving you a full list of our sponsors for the 2010 Pemberton May 6, its official, by now season, the underlined are the Chief you could have voted for my new sponsors who have joined new political party ’BALLS’ and us this year they are as follows:- Executive given me a retirement present Advantage-Environmental; that will keep me in luxury for Billericay Farm Services; BMS; many years to come. My Politi- Chaingreen Ltd (Sea Nymph); By the time you read this we should have launched the cal Manager, wee Dougie, has Old Forge Mowers; Avoncrop updated and much improved BIGGA website that incorporates assured me that his recent fact Amenity Products; Bailey’s many new features including a payment gateway, a calendar finding mission to Trinidad was of Norfolk; Banks Amenity of local and national events, an improved Classified Adverts two weeks of non stop hard Products; Blade Amenity; section and improved log-on security. Take time to explore work and should we win he has CMW Equipment Ltd; Collier the site and take advantage of the wealth of information that chosen his and my beach-side Turf Care; Ernest Doe & Sons; is available, all designed to help keep you in touch with the second home in a convenient Fieldfare Amenity; GM Amenity; industry, improve your knowledge base or do your job more position only 12 hours from Golf Mats UK; Grasshopper effectively. Westminster. Please remember (Horticultural) Ltd; Headland One of the next measures that is currently being investigated our slogan ‘You play ball with us Amenity Products; Limagrain is a web based Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and we’ll supply the referee’. UK; Prime Irrigation Ltd; Rain- software package that will enable Members to manage Darcey Eve Rowe will be bird Europe; Rigby Taylor Ltd; key elements of their CPD registration and, hopefully, the almost four months old this Scotts Professional; Tey Farm Membership Database. CPD is an important part of career month and wondering why Systems; P, Tuckwell Ltd and development and we live in a world where qualifications are an your’s truly did not mention her Writtle College. All their contact essential building block towards that next job. birth, 7lb 13ozs, on January 16 details are on our website. We One of the Association’s objectives is to raise professional in an earlier edition. My excuse welcome them all to our Section standards through education and Members need to take on is that the information given to and thank them for their sup- board the fact that experience alone will not be sufficient in the me by daddy Gary, Banstead port. future. If you have not registered with Sami or Rachael at HQ Downs GC, was put in the wrong I hope you all like the new look for CPD then I ask “Why not?”. More and more it will become pocket and was retrieved only website? a dominant feature of a great many career opportunities and just before the offending piece It would be nice to have any the Association is looking at the feasibility of incorporating CPD of clothing visited the washing constructive comments on the into its membership structure. machine. Apologies to mummy site, as it is there for your infor- If you are unsure of what CPD is or how it can help you Elaine, baby Darcey, and daddy, mation and not just for me to progress then I suggest that you take a look at the following Gary. Had I left this news any play with in my free moments. web site which is part of the Chartered Institute for Personnel longer Darcey could have read Our next golf day is Tuesday, and Development: www.cipd.co.uk/cpd/aboutcpd/whatiscpd. the paragraph all by herself. June 22, at Channels Golf Club htm My first kick boxing bout there is a new format for the day I continue to be amazed at the total apathy that some went well and that the cut to and a Bar-B-Q afterwards. It people seem to demonstrate and wonder to what they aspire. my forehead is healing well. My should be fun so put it on your Many are often quick to be critical of the success of others or opponent was not so lucky as list of things to do, £15 entry fee, complain that life has dealt them a poor hand of cards but the cuts she received cannot which is real good, value for a rarely do they do something about helping themselves. It’s be repaired and her tights were day’s golf and the meal after. We true that we cannot all achieve that top job but we can all do a complete right off. Sorry, of all look forward to seeing you better, we can all raise our self-esteem and confidence through course, I don’t mean that her there. learning. The golf industry is going through some very testing tights came off, I mean, oh you April 27 Spring Trophy at times and I think that the economy in general is far from close know what I mean. What I really South Essex GC; June 22, to picking itself up off the floor. A General Election this month mean is don’t trip and head butt Summer Trophy at Channels will, in my opinion, only add to the country’s problems with a window frame it hurts. GC; July 13, Essex Green- no clear and effective outcome. For all our sakes I hope I am Still, no holidays booked and keepers v Captains of Essex at proven to be wrong. few ideas so please when I next Romford GC (Invitation); July On a more positive note I am pleased to announce that Rigby call have some holiday destina- 20, The Tuckwell Golf Team Taylor have offered to sponsor a Hole-in-One prize of a car at tions ready for my perusal and a Championship at Bentley GC. this year’s National Championship, sponsored by Kubota and subscription to ‘BALLS’ the party (Invitation); August 12, Essex Charterhouse Turf Machinery, in October. that looks after number one. Trophy at Boyce Hill GC; Sep- If you want more details of the event then contact Sandra at Brian Willmott tember 29 Autumn Trophy at HQ but be warned that available places are going quickly. Benton Hall Golf & Country We have now completed three quarters of our new financial Club; October 14, The Doe’s Tri- year and I am pleased to report that we are ahead of budget angular, Essex/ Sussex/Surrey and should end the year with a small surplus, a very different at Three Rivers Golf & Country result to the one that we anticipated. This has been achieved Club (Invitation); December 2 through a combination of careful control of expenditure and AGM and Team Event at The improved revenue. We are now working on the budgets for Essex Golf & Country Club 2010/11 which will be a more problematic year. Essex Mobile 07764-862.337 or Finally I would like to wish Kirstin at HQ and her husband, [email protected] Andy, many, many years of happiness together following their By the time you get to read Arnold Phipps-Jones marriage on April 23rd. this, the first of our golf days will Press Officer & Webmaster

MAY 2010 GI 53