I EDUCATION SPOTLIGHT • WATER HAZARDS • FACTS BEHIND THE NEW CARNEGIE COURSE

PUNE 1994 • £3.00

International

eil Kinnock with BIGGA's Bill Lynch at an awards ceremony where reenkeeper International picked up a coveted prize - see inside!

Award-winning journal of the British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association For further information contact us today on Reading (0734) 510033 or call your local distribute

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AMENITY TECHNOLOGY AMENITY TECHNOLOGY LTD. Clock House, 286 Kings Road, LTD Reading, Berks RG1 4HP Tel: 0734 510033 Fax: 0734 510044 Becker-Underwood, IF President The Rt. Hon. Viscount Whitelaw K.T., C.H., M.C., D.L.

BIGGA BOARD OF MANAGEMENT Chairman: John Millen International Vice-Chairman: Barry Heaney

BOARD MEMBERS Richard Barker George Malcolm JUNE 1994 FREE READER Gordon Moir John Crawford REPLY SERVICE Huw Parry Dean Cleaver Jeffrey Mills George Barr Use the post- paid Reader EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Reply Card Neil Thomas B.A. Contents facing Page 50 EDUCATION OFFICER for further Ken Richardson information on the products ADMINISTRATION MANAGER Tlirnberry on and services John Pemberton advertised in this course for Open issue. Just state Course manager George the companies' Ad Ref numbers, post the card to us and Brown has made a few we'll arrange for further informa- tion to be sent to you direct. minor modifications to his mmInternational course in preparation for ADVERTISERS' INDEX is the official monthly magazine of a quick reference guide the British & International Golf this year's Open. "Golfers Greenkeepers Association. Ad Ref Page Contact us at Aldwark Manor, are so good now, you have to keep making a few changes to Amazone 116 19 Aldwark, Aine, York Y06 2NF keep up with them," he tells Chris Boiling Pages 14-17 Amenity Technology 431 2, 22 Atterton & Ellis 7 EDITOR Banks Horticulture 168 Chris Boiling Tel: 0347 838581 • Fax: 0347 838864 Blec 98 Education and training: the future Bob Andrews 381 DESIGN/PRODUCTION EDITOR BIGGA's new education officer Ken Richardson examines the Brian D Pierson 40 Tim Moat Dixon & Holliday 214 Tel: 0904 610611 • Fax: 0904 643074 impact of NVQs, explains what they mean and presents the Echo 446 SALES AND MARKETING agenda for this year's management courses Pages 8-9 Fairway Landscapes 460 MANAGER Fisons 102 Bill Lynch Golf Maintenance 440 Tel/Fax: 091 413 7218 John Crawford's end of term report Grundon 437 SENIOR ADVERTISING SALES Hayters 90 EXECUTIVE John Crawford's year as chairman of BIGGA came to a close at Inturf 31 Carol Dutton the National Education Conference. He told Greenkeeper Irish Greenkeepers Association Tel: 0347 838581 • Fax: 0347 838864 458 12 SALES AND MARKETING International what kind of a year it's been Page 13 JD Greasley 461 ASSISTANT Major Equipment 419 Louise Lunn MJ Abbott 296 Tel: 0347 838581 • Fax: 0347 838864 Andrew Carnegie would have approved Mommersteeg 171 Pattissons 35 PRINTING The philanthropist's Highlands castle is now in the hands of Hi-Tec Print, Unit 7, Universal Crescent, Sisis 176 North Anston Trading Estate, the de Savary family - and the opening of Britain's first links Standard Golf 421 North Anston, Sheffield S31 7NZ course in 40 years is now only weeks away Pages 31-37 Supaturf 164 Tel: 0909 568533 • Fax: 0909 568206 Times Mirror 462 Watermation 33 Please send all editorial contributions, advertising copy, subscriptions and Wessex Farm Machinery address changes to BIGGA at Aldwark 210 40 Manor, Aldwark, Aine, York Y06 2NF Regular features Colleges • 38-39 Buyer's Guide • 42-46 Contents may not be reprinted or otherwise reproduced without written permission. Return Classified • 46 News The magazine that reports the news also makes it this month: we've won postage must accompany all materials submitted Job Shop • 46 if return is requested. No responsibility can be a prize... plus the usual round-up of all that's going on Pages 4, 5, 7,19, 21 assumed for unsolicited materials. The right is Recruitment • 47-48 reserved to edit submissions before publication. Crossword Mark G Smith compiles another greenkeeping brain baffler. Solve Although every care will be taken, no responsi- bility is accepted for loss of manuscripts, pho- it and you could win £50 or a BIGGA blazer Page 8 tographs or artwork. Opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the Association and no Around the Green Regular updates from our correspondents. Find out what's responsibility is accepted by the Association for such content, advertising or product information going on: Pages 23-28 that may appear. Circulation is by subscription. Subscription rate: UK £34 per year, Europe and Eire £44. The magazine is also distributed to BIGGA members, golf clubs, local authorities, the turf industry, ADVERTISING WORKS libraries and central government. Cover £50 CASH IN OUR IN GREENKEEPER ISSN 0961 - 6977 Turnberry, venue for this year's BUYER'S GUIDE INTERNATIONAL: © 1994 British & International COMPETITION: Golf Greenkeepers Association Open Championship, plus our TURN TO PAGE 42 ^^ Every business needs man Lynch and a special VIP... BB to be careful where and ^^ how it spends its promotional budget, particularly Greenkeeper Education and Development Fund in the current climate. We know The Fund provides the key to the future for when we use Greenkeeper greenkeeper, golf club and game. Individuals and International we are companies can join the Golden Key Circle and Silver buying value for Key Circle. For details, contact BIGGA on 0347 838581. money - because it produces results. GOLDEN KEY CIRCLE COMPANY MEMBERS: • ET Breakwell Ltd • Hardi Ltd • Hayters PLC - ROGER MOSSOP, • ICI Professional Products • Jacobsens • Kubota UK Ltd BIGGA Marketing Manager, • Lely UK Ltd • Rigby Taylor Ltd • Toro Irrigation GOLDEN KEY ICI Professional Products FOR MORE DETAILS CALL: and SILVER KEY SILVER KEY CIRCLE COMPANY MEMBERS: Bill Lynch on 091 413 7218, or • Ransomes • Risboro' Turf CIRCLES Carol Dutton or Louise Lunn at For an information pack on BTME '95 call Louise Lunn on 0347 838581 BIGGA HQ on 0347 838581. WE SAY BIGGA's training programmes forge ahead

s I write, our new Education niques. The second will be inde- Conference venue AOfficer, Ken Richardson, is pendently produced and settling in, making contacts and financed by the Education and There has been much debate in hopefully beginning to see the Development Fund and will fea- recent months on the future tim- wood from the trees in terms of ture golf course preparation. ing and location of our National greenkeeper education and train- Our new library at Headquarters Education Conference. The ing. I am sure that with his train- will become accessible for these recent conference at the Univer- ing background he will have and future training videos as well sity of Warwick more than main- much to contribute to both our as books and will represent a tained the standards of previous own training programmes and to valuable training medium. conferences and the enthusiasm the development of education of delegates continues to be most generally within the profession. Ecology debate marked. Over the last year or so Indeed much is happening on the your Board of Management education front. You will read BIGGA in focus Discussions are ongoing with members have been made aware elsewhere in the pages of this BY NEIL THOMAS regard to the production of a of pressures from within the issue of the re-structuring of our practical guide to the ecological membership to hold the Confer- annual management courses. management of the golf course ence during the BTME in Harro- This is an exciting development vision. Whilst the detail remains and a decision will shortly be gate. providing members with the to be finalised this local training taken on the direction in which I am equally aware of the opportunity whilst pursuing a is likely to be both college or cen- this will proceed. Again financ- views of many regular confer- course at Aldwark Manor to tre based and incorporate a trav- ing will be provided through the ence attendees who would prefer move towards a nationally recog- elling roadshow. There is much Education and Development the conference to continue to be nised qualification. As part of our administrative work to be under- Fund. Ecological management is held separately in a university review this year we will be look- taken and there will need to be very much a current topic and location. Having given in depth ing at the Master Greenkeeper substantial financial provision by concern and as an Association we consideration to this matter your Certificate to see if any amend- the GTC. However I am opti- must be at the forefront in lead- Education Sub-Committee has ments are necessary to the certifi- mistic that this initiative will ing the debate on behalf of the recommended that the 1995 cation scheme after four years of commence in September 1995. profession. Conference be held during the operation. The status of the cer- BTME replacing the Workshop tificate continues to be enhanced Field Guide Needs analysis programme over the Monday and I remain impressed by the and Tuesday. This will be on a determination of members to Members will have recently There is concern at the lack of trial basis for 1995 and the situa- obtain the certificate. As in any received an on course field guide knowledge at Headquarters of tion will be reviewed thereafter. examination procedure there are for the major diseases and pests educational developments at The Conference will be held in referrals but a referral only seems of fine turf which can be incorpo- Region and Section level and the Majestic Hotel adjacent to to reinforce the determination of rated within their Training Manu- here I see a key role in future for the Exhibition Halls and this a member to reach his goal and als. This is yet another the regionally based Education hotel will now become the offi- this surely augurs well for his and development emanating from the Conveners. Our Education Offi- cial Headquarters hotel for the the profession's future. Recent Education and Development cer will be seeking an early meet- BTME. Additionally we will of comment indicates that those Fund and offering practical bene- ing with the Conveners course be running the usual Sem- referred are not clearly advised fits to greenkeepers. This fund is essentially to carry out a 'needs inar Programme during the Exhi- on aspects where they need to now in its third year, is firmly analysis' exercise. There must be bition and here the format will show improvement. Ken Richard- established and a vital source in better coordination in future and remain unchanged. We are cur- son is aware of this criticism terms of financing future educa- indeed common standards and rently planning an exciting which will be rectified in future. tional projects. Continued sup- structured programmes imple- speaker programme over the five There will be very real benefits in port of the fund at all levels is mented at Region and Section days and volunteers to present a the years ahead for those recog- extremely important. level. Any observations or com- paper at either the Conference or nised as Master Greenkeepers as This year will see two further ments you have will be wel- Seminar Programme will be indeed there will be for their pro- training videos produced. The comed by Ken Richardson who given every consideration - but fession and Association. first will be made commercially will seek to canvass a broad spec- please hurry up and let us have We will be looking to link the with BIGGA backing and advice trum of opinion on the way your name. Look out for early Management Courses with the and will feature mowing tech- ahead. news of BTME '95 in the BTME Training Manual and to examine Newsline which will be closely followed in September by a new- the feasibility of doing likewise BIGGA Staff Profile with the Master Greenkeeper Cer- look programme and booking SAMANTHA COLLINS (Sami) tificate thereby demonstrating a form. Clerk/typist coherent and logical approach to So there we have it - much is greenkeeper education in broad Maybe it's because she went to school in Colorado for | happening in greenkeeper educa- terms. a year, or maybe it's just because she likes American tion and with the review under- rock music, but Samantha Collins (or Sami as she way future initiatives are already Training initiative prefers to be known) is a big fan of the US of A. being discussed. Members can When she's not handling the subscriptions rest assured that, in accordance In discussion with the GTC we database for Greenkeeper International, answering the telephone or with our founding objectives involved in secretarial duties, you'll find Sami in a pair of Levis dancing to have agreed on the need for a back in 1987, the development of "Sweet home Alabama" in her favourite bar. Sami's also a computer whiz local training initiative and green- greenkeeper education and train- and before joining BIGGA worked for several computer companies. "Have keepers will thereby be presented a positive attitude - it makes life worth living," she says, philosophically. ing will continue to be our first with a choice of educational pro- and foremost consideration. Greenkeeper FLYING DIVOTS dies in mower • Muirfield's course manager, Chris Whittle, is heading back to his roots to take over the accident head greenkeeper's job at Royal Birkdale. Chris hails A part-time greenkeeper has died from nearby Formby and in a horrific accident involving a started his greenkeeping mower. career at Formby GC in the It is believed that 60 year old early 70s after a spell in a Ronnie Mitchell's anorak draw- bank. He is looking forward to string became entangled in the returning to Merseyside after ride-on mower's driveshaft, drag- nearly six years at Muirfield. ging him into the machine. Twelve-handicapper Chris, Although.the blades missed him, who has just turned 40, will his head and chest were crushed take over when Tom O'Brien in the narrow gap between the retires in October. He beat blade arms and the wheels. nearly 60 candidates to the The engine was still running job of keeping 18 new greens when a colleague at the Bradley on the Open Championship Hall Golf Club, Greetland, near course. Halifax, found him. A single man, Mr Mitchell had • Work has started on a new been the head greenkeeper there 18-hole parkland course at for 30 years until he retired two Walton, near Wakefield. years ago. Waterton Park Golf Club, set in 200 acres, is designed by Taking over the Simon Gidman/Chapman Warren partnership with input David Halford, a from Yorkshire's international senior lecturer at touring pro Gordon J Brand. Myerscough It will open for play in College near September '95 with Preston, has membership restricted to taken over the investors. late John Shildrick's job as secretary of the • Barry Neville, a former British Turf and Landscape Student Greenkeeper of the Irrigation Association. David Year, has been appointed says it will be a hard act to deputy head greenkeeper at follow: "John was, to all intents Stanmore Golf Club, and purposes, the heart of the Middlesex. He was previously Association. I will endeavour to first assistant at Whitehall Golf maintain the standards he set Centre. but it will be difficult." He will administer BTLIA • John Houston, 37, has left affairs from an office at Royal Blackheath GC to take Myerscough which has its own over the course manager's golf course equipped with Highest praise for position at Fulwell Golf Club, virtually every example of Hampton Hill, Middlesex. He sprinklers used on UK golf takes over from the late Hugh courses. BIGGA magazine MacGillivray. Your magazine, Greenkeeper International, is "superb". We're not • Work on a full nine-hole, blowing our own trumpet, it's official. Judges in the prestigious Waste not... double tee course has started Editing for Industry Awards, which are organised by the British at Rustington Golf Centre, Wessex Water is selling bags of Association of Industrial Editors, called it "a remarkable magazine", near Littlehampton, West dried human sewage to golf "which hits the mark spot on". Sussex. The centre, which is courses as fertiliser. The odour- Competing against publications backed by mega-rich companies, close to Ham Manor, already less pellets are made from sludge Greenkeeper International won a Certificate of Merit alongside has a nine-hole par 3 course that used to be pumped into the Esso's "Update". The winner was "Aspect" from British Gas. and a 30-bay driving range. Bristol Channel. The company At a presentation in Edinburgh, former Labour leader Neil Kin- Four greenkeepers will look says that, unlike chemical fertilis- nock presented the certificate to BIGGA's sales and marketing man- after the site. Head man is 24- ers, it can be used quickly while ager Bill Lynch. Mr Kinnock commented that he had seen the year-old Stephen Payne. the course is still in use and it magazine before at a golf course in his Welsh constituency - and does not make the grass grow too was able to recall an article in it from three years ago! • Bill Sibley has taken over fast. The judges took our description of the magazine - "Self-support- as Sisis ing through its advertising content and recognised as an industry Equipment's area leader" - and added: "Therein lies the perfect appraisal of this The East Sussex National representative for remarkable magazine. Jam-packed with full colour ads and till-jan- Golf Club has started giv- Kent, Sussex and gling small ad section providing a healthy platform for well-written, ing golfers information sheets Surrey. He is informative and genuinely interesting features that guarantee which show pin positions and married with a appeal even wider than the captive audience of greenkeepers. It is Stimpmeter readings before son of three and very difficult to fault such a superb magazine which hits the mark they tee off. newborn twin spot on in a specialist market." boys. spray the World's No. I Wetting Agent - No. I in USA, JAPAN & EUROPE • No mixing • No measuring • No watering-in No risk of scorch

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AD REF 164 SUPATURF PRODUCTS LTD, AMENITY HOUSE, 2 MAIZEFIELD, HINCKLEY FIELDS INDUSTRIAL ESTATE, HINCKLEY, LEICS. TEL: 0455 234677 FAX: 0455 2347I4 EUROPEAN NEWS OUTLOOK Pocket-size Vigilance needed Golf has been lumped in with other sports as the Committee guide to for European Normalization tries standardising natural pests and sports surfaces. Of course this is crazy, but fortunately diseases is deliberations are going at the A touch of Florida in Sussex sort of pace that would make launched the slowest golfer look like A 'Florida style' course has opened in Sussex. The Cathedral Harry Weetman. A new all-colour course at the new Chichester Golf Centre, Hunston, boasts huge pocket-sized guide to 'Our' man there, Eric Shiel rolling greens, big expanses of water, winding streams, trees and of the Joint Golf Course Com- help greenkeepers enormous bunkers. There are long holes like the 605-yard 5th and mittee, says: "A lot of time has identify major spectacular holes like the par 3 15th with a bank of Portland stone diseases and pests behind the green and a small lake in front. been taken up trying to get of fine turf is now Consultant Jack McMillan MBE, pictured centre, and owner agreement among different available from Brian Langmead, far right, joined the greenkeeping team at the nations on 'standards for test BIGGA. And thanks opening for this photograph. methods', therefore there has to the Assoc- been no direct impact on the iation's Education game of golf so far. But watch and Development must be kept upon these non- Fund, which is supported by Award-winning golf boffins since, for exam- members of the Golden and Silver ple, when deciding a test Key Circles, it's free. method for 'ball roll' I had to The guide is designed to be used tell them that the Stimpmeter Bridie's 'brilliant' had been used in golf for over out on the course in all weathers with each sheet plastic coated. 40 years, something they Alternatively it can be knew nothing about. Other- incorporated within the GTC time in America wise they would have trainign manual. Diseases covered Bridie Redican, the first woman really is the chance of a lifetime - invented something else to be include fusarium patch, greenkeeper to carry off the cov- I would urge any young green- used for all sports." anthracnose, take-all patch, fairy eted Toro-PGA European Tour keepers to work hard at their col- In addition to ball roll, immi- rings, thatch fungi, red thread, Student Greenkeeper of the Year lege work to ensure that they are nent standard test methods seedling diseases, and insect pests. Award, has returned to Ireland nominated for this year's (Octo- being developed which will Future guides in the series will after her sponsored trip to the ber) finals at Aldwark Manor," impact on golf include: cover dry patch and disorders, USA. And she has joined the she said. organic matter, particle size, turfgrass weeds and grass newly-formed greenkeeping team Organised by BIGGA, the Stu- determination of thatch depth, identification. at the Adare Golf Club, a new dent Greenkeeper Award is spon- sward height and ground The first guide was prepared by Robert Trent Jones 18-hole design sored by Lely (UK) Ltd, Toro cover, saturated hydraulic a BIGGA working group being constructed close to Shan- mower distributors and the Euro- conductivity, water infiltration comprising Geoff Yelland of Rigby non Airport on the south-west pean office of Toro Irrigation - rates and angled ball Taylor Ltd, Gordon Irvine of Mill coast. plus the PGA European Tour. behaviour. Thankfully it was Ride Golf Club, Mike Drinkall of Recalling her recent experi- decided that golf did not need DowElanco Ltd and Neil Baldwin ences in America, Bridie, pictured a test method for a vertical of Service Chemicals pic. right, says she was "knocked for ball bounce, so at least that six" at the size of US greenkeep- was eliminated. ing budgets - and greenkeeper's • The European Golf Associa- Cameron's story salaries. They're about double tion Ecology Unit manage- what they are here. ment committee, which met A computer glitch meant that the final para- for the first time recently in graphs of our Stockley Park feature last Describing her six weeks turf month were missing. Here's a recap of course management course studies at the Brussels, is putting together a manager Cameron McMillan's story, includ- University of Massachussetts as document detailing the posi- ing the missing lines, with our apologies. "brilliant", Bridie teamed up with tive environmental attributes Then, last June, when Stockley of golf courses. The director, Park opened, the father-to-be moved the only other female (an Ameri- round the M25 - and was impressed can) attending the residential David Stubbs of Environmen- with what he found: the flat landfill course "to reduce the odds. There tal Golf Services, says it will site had been turned into a pretty were two of us (women) and over be for distribution to the golf- country park with some of the newly- ing community and will serve made hills giving excellent views of 60 male greenkeepers!" to counter opposing claims the City in one directon, Windsor After completing her studies, about the environmental Castle in another and Concorde tak- Bridie visited the Toro Mower ing off in another. impact of the game. A long- Division's complex at snowbound Director of golf Peter Oosterhuis, term scientific study is also to Minneapolis, before flying to the 46, joined Stockley Park in the win- be undertaken comparing the ter. The site has a lot of potential and Californian sunshine. impact of golf courses before he believes he could see 45,000 In addition to touring the Toro and after construction and/or rounds a year being played there in a Irrigation Division's offices and few years. But he's unlikely to see any reconstruction. of his customers from the Riviera production lines at Riverside, Country Club. These included Dean south of Los Angeles, Bridie spent The EGAEU is funded by Martin, James Garner and Columbo a day looking over golf courses in the R&A, the PGA European star Peter Falk, whom he once had to Palm Springs. Tour and the European Golf tell to play quicker. "The Toro-PGA scholarship Association. GREENKEEPER'S CROSSWORD Education Compiled by Mark G Smith, assistant at Frilford Heath GC and training: the future

BIGGA's new education officer Ken Richardson examines the impact of NVQs and SNVQs on greenkeeper training and introduces the agenda for this autumn's management courses

BIGGA has the education and guidance of others is often training of greenkeepers as its first required. priority. This, the first of a series (d). Level 4 (Management) Com- of articles, describes the structure petence in a broad range of com- of National Vocational Qualifica- plex technical or professional tions (NVQs) and Scottish Voca- activities with a substantial degree WIN A BIGGA BLAZER OR £50 IN CASH! tional Qualifications (SVQs). of personal responsibility, responsi- CLUES ACROSS CLUES DOWN Subsequent articles will describe bility for the work of others and 1 GC, Oxfordshire, 1987 English 1 Usual destination after the thirteenth the role that NVQs/SVQs are hav- responsibility for the allocation of Amateur Championship venue, set to green (10,3) ing and, will continue to have, on resourses. become 54 holes in July 1994 (8,5) 2 Alphabetic filing aid (7) greenkeeper training. (e). Level 5 (Management) Com- 8 Red figures on a scoreboard, indicate 3 Starts a machine (5-2) what of a player in relation to par (5) 4 Me care cuts up a type of grass petence involving the application 9 Regulate staff or a machine (7) inflorescence (anagram) (6) Why NVQs /SVQs? of a significant range of funda- 10 Ping 2, a range of clubs made by 5 Keenly sharpened edge or skill (5) In an attempt to improve the skill mental principles and complex Karsten Engineering (3) 6 Surname of the 1973 US Masters levels of British workers and to techniques. Very substantial per- 11 (L Baccata) the Yew tree (5) Champion (5) improve the quality reputation of sonal autonomy and significant 12 Lily (L. Lilium Candidum) (7) 7 The name of the 5th hole on the Old 14 The USA's opponents in the Ryder Cup Course, St Andrews (4,6,3) British manufactured goods, the responsibility for others. Planning, (6) 13 Unit of electrical resistance (3) Government instigated a review of design, diagnosis and evaluation 16 To defeat heavily, particularly in Match 15 Commencement of a round (3) vocational training in 1985. From are also required. Play (6) 17 Plants known as 'Thrift' or 'Sea Pinks' this review it was apparent that Each level of NVQ/SVQ is made 20 Collective name for the users of a Golf of which (L Alpina) is one major changes were required in up of a number of units which set Course (7) variety (7) 23 Formulations of different genera 18 Nationality of 25 Across (7) vocational training and the out what the candidate must be and/or cultivars of grass (5) 19 Country Club, Columbus, Ohio National Council for Vocational able to do and to what standard. 24 plant (L. Mesembryanthemum venue of the 1950 USPGA Qualifications (NCVQ) was Standards are set by Industry Lead Crystallinum) (3) Championship (6) formed to set up the framework Bodies (ILBs). The ILB for green- 25 Surname of the 1984 USPGA 21 Quench hot metal in oil (5) for NVQs/SVQs. keeping is the Industry Lead Body Champion (7) 22 Court danger by playing close to 26 Mediate, USPGA Tour bunker (5) for Amenity Horticulture. Professional (5) What are NVQs/SVQs? NVQs/SVQs are awarded by 27 Core surrounded by a solenoid which Traditional courses led to acade- awarding bodies such as City & operates sprinkler valves when current mic qualifications by testing can- Guilds and SCOTVEC. is passed (13) didates on what they knew and not what they could do. Accredited Prior Learning NVQs/SVQs measure what a per- Accredited prior learning (APL) Solve the crossword puzzle and you could win either a son can do ie. candidates for an provides routes for recognition of BIGGA blazer (worth £87.95) or £50 in cash! Send award must demonstrate their achievements from all types of completed entries to: Crossword Competition, Greenkeeper ability to perform certain work learning which may be in the International, Aldwark Manor, Aldwark, Alne, York Y06 2NF. related tasks and have a com- classroom, at the workplace or Closing date June 24, 1994. First correct entry mand of the knowledge underpin- through experience. Evidence of drawn after the closing date will win the prize. Photocopy your entry if you don't want to cut ning those tasks. There are five prior learning, once accepted, can up your magazine. levels of NVQ/SVQ. These are: be used towards the award of an These are the answers to last month's (a). Level 1 (Craft) Competence NVQ/SVQ. Therefore, experienced crossword. in a range of routine or pre- greenkeepers could gain NVQs/ The winner will be announced next month. dictable activities. SVQs without the need to attend (b). Level 2 (Craft) Competence college. in a significant range of work activités, some of which are Benefits of NVQ/SVQ complex or non-routine. Team- The introduction of NVQs/SVQs work may often be a require- has already changed greenkeeper Name: ment. training. The key to NVQs/SVQs is Address: (c). Level 3 (Supervisory) Com- that they benefit everyone con- petence in a broad range of work cerned with greenkeeping: green- most of which is of a complex or keepers, employers and golfers. non routine nature. There may be Having a better trained workforce If I'm the winner, please send me • £50 cash or • BIGGA blazer, size. considerable personal control and means better golf courses. Supervisory & Management Courses Autumn/Winter 1994: TIMETABLES | Week 1 • October 24-28 1994

Management 9am - 12noon 1.30pm - 4.00pm 4.30pm - 7.00pm Courses Delegates arrive at BIGGA Managing People - Module 1 Way forward for Monday HQ for lunch Greenkeeper Education

Managing People - Module 1 Managing People - Module 1 Managing People - Module 1 Tuesday

Managing People - Module 1 Managing People - Module 1 Wednesday ollowing the introduction of the Greenkeepers Training Committee Computers in Greenkeeping Computers in Greenkeeping Computers in Greenkeeping F Thursday Training Manual, the format of this year's supervisory and management courses has Doing it my way Open Forum Delegates depart after lunch Friday been changed. The supervisory section of James Kidd the Training Manual is designed to lead to the award of an NVQ/SVQ Level 3 in | Week 2 • October 31-November 4 1994 Amenity Horticulture (Greenkeeping) 9am • 12noon 1.30pm - 4.00pm 4.30pm - 7.00pm and/or the GTC Certificate in Golf Course Delegates arrive at BIGGA Managing People - Module 2 Way forward for Supervision. Monday HQ for lunch Greenkeeper Education The 1994 series of BIGGA Supervisory Managing People - Module 2 Managing People - Module 2 Managing People - Module 2 and Management Courses has been Tuesday designed to meet the underpinning knowl- Managing People - Module 2 Managing People - Module 2 edge requirements of Level 3 Units 1001 Wednesday to 1013. BIGGA courses are open to all Computers in Greenkeeping Computers in Greenkeeping Computers in Greenkeeping greenkeepers who need to improve their Thursday supervisory and management skills. The Doing it my way Open Forum Delegates depart after lunch courses cover: Friday Walter Woods

Week 1, Managing People | Week 3 • November 7-11 1994 Module 1 This week covers units 1005, 1006 and 9am - 12noon 1.30pm - 4.00pm 4.30pm - 7.00pm 1007 and deals with team building skills, Delegates arrive at BIGGA Managing Operations and Way forward for Monday interpersonal skills, time management and HQ for lunch Resources Greenkeeper Education staff appraisal, computers in greenkeeping Managing Operations and Managing Operations and Managing Operations and Tuesday and a presentation by a top course man- Resources Resources Resources ager. Managing Operations and Wednesday Managing Operations and Resources Resources

Week 2, Managing People Computers in Greenkeeping Computers in Greenkeeping Computers in Greenkeeping Module 2 Thursday

This week covers units 1008, 1009, 1010 Doing it my way Open Forum Delegates depart after lunch and 1011 and deals with assertive com- Friday David Maclndoe munication, influencing skills, grievance and discipline, computers in greenkeeping | Week 4 • November 14-18 1994 and a presentation by a top course man- ager. 9am - 12noon 1.30pm - 4.00pm 4.30pm - 7.00pm Delegates arrive at BIGGA Managing Information Way forward for Monday Greenkeeper Education Week 3, Managing Operations and HQ for lunch Managing Information Managing Information Managing Information Resources Tuesday This week covers units 1001, 1002, 1003 Managing information Managing Information and 1004 and deals with planning and Wednesday organising, communicating with others, Computers in Greenkeeping Computers in Greenkeeping Computers in Greenkeeping dealing with accidents, maintaining a safe Thursday and healthy environment, suggesting improvements, solving problems and Doing it my way Open Forum Delegates depart after lunch Friday Christopher Kennedy relating costs to employers' objectives and golfers' requirements, computers in green- keeping and a presentation by a top course manager. summary. This could be used to provide wark Manor, Aldwark, Alne, York, Y06 evidence for NVQ/SVQ assessors. 2NF. Telephone 0347 838640. Week 4, Managing Information Attendance at each year's course quali- This week covers units 1012 and 1013 fies for eight credits towards the Master • To reserve your place, complete the and deals with collecting and recording Greenkeeper Certificate. postcard in this magazine and return it information, giving advice, presenting The cost per week, including accommo- to BIGGA, together with a deposit of information to others, communicating dation, all meals and tuition fees is £420+ £100 + VAT (total £117.50). The bal- clearly, computers in greenkeeping and a VAT for BIGGA members and £475+VAT ance will be due for payment no later presentation by a top course manager. for non-members. than October 1, 1994. If a delegate can- cels his booking prior to the course, he Weeks 1 and 2 will include outdoor practi- GTC GRANTS will be liable for the payment of the cal exercises and delegates should bring As these supervisory and management total cost unless the place can be filled suitable casual, outdoor clothing. Protec- courses are approved by the Greenkeepers by another delegate. In order to provide tive clothing will be provided. Training Committee (GTC), golf clubs a high level of instructor/delegate inter- The courses are not cumulative and del- with mature head greenkeepers who have action, each course is limited to 12 del- egates can choose to attend one or more never attended a college course, may be egates - so book early. weeks so that over 1-4 years all the under- eligible to claim a grant of £150 per dele- If you have any queries or need more pinning knowledge requirements of Level gate per week from the GTC. Further information, call Ken Richardson, 3 could be met. All course delegates and details of the grant and an application BIGGA education officer, on 0347 employers will receive an end of course form may be obtained from the GTC, Ald- 838581.

GREENKEEPER INTERNATIONAL June 1994 9 St Endoc's Steve Evans, right, winner of our Westurf wordsearch competition, receives his £50 voucher from BIGGA chairman Westurf '94 John Millen Michael Bird reports from Bristol on the best-yet Westurf event

ore than 2,000 visitors gave April's Wes- ing action and have adjustable rear rollers for Driven by the tractor's power take-off, the turf exhibition at Long Ashton Golf accurate setting of working height and brush- unit has a working width of 1.5m (5ft) and is Club, Bristol, the best ever attendance in the ing intensity. Transport width is 2.03m (6ft suitable for tractors of 28hp upwards. It event's six year history. 8in) and price in the region of £2,500. requires a single hydraulic flow to operate the Organised by the South West and South hopper tipping mechanism. Wales region of BIGGA, this year's Westurf Available in 1.8m Ideal for working in both open and awk- also attracted 73 exhibitors, the highest num- and 2.4m (6ft ward areas, the F-M 1501 can be fitted with ber since the event was established in and 8ft) widths, scarifying, heavy-duty twisted or back-to-back 1989. Dowdes well flail blades in minutes, enabling cutting, scari- Region administrator, Gordon Child, Engineering's fying and leaf collection to be carried out by commented that the increasing number new Titan turf one compact unit. Updraught is assisted by 18 of national and regional companies wish- slitter is suit- wind paddles fitted to the heavy-duty rotor. ing to take stand space at Westurf able for use Price is £4,495. reflected recognition of the quality of the on fairways, attendance. approaches, Replacing the Apart from all golf clubs, event secretary practice Ransomes Marion Child also invites sports clubs, local grounds and other Motor 350 is authorities and others involved in turf care turf areas requiring regular aera- the Comman- throughout the area. "The formula appears to tion. Designed for tractors of 35hp or der 3500DX, work," said Mr Child. "We now have a well more, the Titan shown here is fitted with a five unit, established exhibition for the south west of 200mm (8in) blades and hydraulic depth 3.5m (138in) the country which attracts excellent support control. This uses a tractor linkage lock-out cut machine from greenkeepers, groundstaff and others frame and a double-acting hydraulic ram to designed involved in the turf maintenance industry. control depth and help penetration in tough for all- "Furthermore, all trade exhibitors appeared conditions. A ballast version with weight tray round, high extremely satisfied with the day. And if they is also available as are 2 54mm (lOin) slitting output work on short are pleased, we have to be pleased also." blades and a rear full-width roller. Price from and longer grass areas according to All profits resulting from Westurf are used £1,895. the cutting units fitted. for the benefit of greenkeepers in BIGGA's The mower can be specified with Magna South West and South Wales region. Areas in Latest attachment 250 (254mm diameter, six knives and rear which money has been used in the past introduced for roller) or Sport 200 cutting units (197mm include helping with visits to the BTME use with Toro's diameter, eight or 11 knives, front and rear at Harrogate and the organisation of Workman 3000 rollers)". seminars, workshops and other educa- turf vehicle is Standard features include a 51 hp four cylin- tional events for members. the Top der diesel engine, hydrostatic transmission The importance placed on Westurf by Dresser 1800, with on-demand two or four wheel drive and manufacturers and dealers means that a distributed by articulating wing units. Workrate is 3.2 number of products receive their first public Lely (UK) ha/hour (8 acres) at 7.5mph. Price, with eight airing at the event. Ltd. knife Sport 200 cutting units, is £32,325. The words and pictures below highlight The imple- some of the latest ideas and innovations aiming ment has a capacity of 510 The Jacobsen to attract the attention of machinery buyers at litres (18 cu ft) and a spread width of Workhorse the exhibition: 1.5m (5ft), giving effective coverage across System Vehi- the vehicle's full wheelbase. Drive to the cle's one Designed for conveyor at the base of the hopper is tonne pay- powered hydraulic with chain and sprocket connection load is said grooming and to the delivery brush. A remote hydraulic con- to be the sweeping of trol enables the operator to engage or disen- best of turf and other gage drive instantly. any turf firm, level Price, including remote control, is £4,245. utility surfaces, the vehicle in its Pro-Sweep New from class. A choice of 34hp from Pro- Long-Equip is petrol or 23hp diesel engines can be S e e d the RL F-M specified, linked to a four speed transmission Equipment Ltd 1501 fully driving the rear axle through high and low has three independently- tractor- ranges. The engine is front mounted and there floating heads giving a maximum working mounted is power steering, hydraulic PTO and quick- width of 3.05m (10ft). flail/scari- pin coupling for a range of Jacobsen attach- Suitable for both cosmetic and practical pur- fier collec- ments including a tipping cargo box, top poses, the polypropylene brushes require an tor with dresser, sprayers and a fertiliser spreader. oil supply of about 20 litres/min (4.5gal/min) 1,10 0 Other manufacturer's implements such as aer- taken from a tractor of 25hp or more. The litre (39 cu ators and a core harvester can also be accom- brushes can be angled to provide a windrow- ft) capacity hopper. modated. Price of the petrol model is £13,230. Turfgrass Management Books from Lewis Publishers Management of Turf grass Diseases 2nd edition Joseph M Vargas Jr, Michigan State University, East Lansing, USA Written by a leading international lecturer on turfgrasses, the 2nd edition of Management of Turfgrass Diseases has been completely revised and updated, to include the latest information on STANDARD GOLF maintaining a healthy turf and identifying turf diseases. Other topics include cool and warm season grasses, growing conditions and new diseases. With 72 colour photos and over 100 WE RAISED figures, this is an essential handbook for all greenkeepers and superintendents. THE STANDARD 1994 • 336pp • Hb • ISBN 1 56670 046 9 • £52.50 FOR GOLF Golf Course Management and Construction Environmental Issues James C Balogh, Spectrum Research Inc., Our new Seed & Soil Caddie can be filled in a jiffy, thanks to Minnesota, USA; William J Walker, Walsh & the 5" screw-on cap at the Associates Inc., California, USA bottom. The integral handle/spout protects the This book is an excellent introduction to the concepts of contents from rain and the large 'non-point source' environmental impacts of turfgrass capacity reservoir holds enough management. Technical and scientific research on the mixture to repair lots of divots. environmental effects of turfgrass maintenance is The container holder can be summarised. In addition to golf courses, there is also a moved as quickly and easily as discussion of turfgrass systems for residential and a tee marker. commercial lawns and parks. Seed & Soil Caddie in Green or Black at £30.50 each 1992 • 976pp • HB • ISBN 0 87371 742 2 • £61.00 The Shur-Way Ball mark Repair 'Pool (pictured left) is now better than ever - Landscape Restoration Handbook with a welded handle, Donald Harker, The Earth Fund, Kentucky, USA, et al thicker arms and precision- extruded spiders! Just Develop a natural landscaping programme for turf as position Shur-Way over a an alternative to intensive management. This book ball mark, make a explains how to obtain the following benefits from downward thrust, let up on natural landscaping or ecological restoration: the handle and tap the area with your foot. You'll be amazed at how quickly you • water quality improvement • erosion reduction can repair an entire green - • lower maintenance • chemicals reduction without crawling around on • plant and animal species diversity. your hands and knees! Shur-Way Ball mark Repair 1993 • 640pp • Hb • ISBN 0 87371 9522 • £65.50 Tool at £157.45 each

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QTY Price 156670 046 9 Management of Turfgrass Diseases 2nd edition £52.50 (ireenskeeper for easy, affordable ball mark repair. 0 87371 742 2 Goff Course Management and Construction .£61.00 Why pay more to fix ball marks? (ireenskeeper (pictured 0 87371952 2 Landscape Restoration Handbook £65.50 right) helps you fix them fast and easy - without bending over or crawling around, (ireenskeeper is designed to Please send your order to: meticulously lift dirt and grass back into place. It's BIGGA, Aldwark Manor, Aldwark, Alne, York, Y06 2NF surprisingly affordable too! Greenskeeper at £56.65 each Tel: 0347 838581 Fax: 0347 838864 Postage and Packing: Please add £1.50 Ask for our full colour 1994 catalogue, price list and I enclose a cheque made payable to BIGGA for £ Cheques will not be cashed until your books are despatched to you. complete details of driving range equipment and mats Gl. 6.94 Name Contact Paula or Lisa at: Standard Golf (UK) Limited, Job title _ The Maxwell Hart Building, 612 Reading Road, Winnersh, Address Wokingham, Berkshire RG11 5HF. AD Telephone: 0734 788044. Fax: 0734 785805 REF 421 AD Postcode Tel:. REF 462 IRISH GOLF DLF COURSE GREENKEEPERS' EQUIPMENT ASSOCIATION SECOND TURF * NEW PREMIER * MAINTENANCE HOLE CUTTER EXHIBITION £95.00

Last November, nearly 800 people - greenkeepers, * Heavy Duty Edging Tool £ 22.50 golf club committee members, course managers, * Chelwood Rake £ 19.50 course designers, county council and corporation parks superintendents, developers, sports * Synthetic Hole Cup Cover £ 5.75 groundmen, students, etc. - attended the first ever * Marker Post with Spike £ 4.75 Irish Turf Maintenance Exhibition. Already half of last year's exhibitors have asked for * Hole Placement Marker Flag £ 2.95 space this year, but we want to increase the range of * Divot Box £ 63.00 exhibitor-so if you are interested in participating, contact us now for further details. ALL IN STOCK NOW 3 and 4 NOVEMBER 1994 ROYAL DUBLIN SOCIETY, DUBLIN

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1981 - appointed to the Central Section committee 1983 - appointed chairman of the Central Section 1984 - appointed secretary of End of term the central section 1989 - appointed to the board of management 1992 - appointed chairman of the Scottish Region 1993 - appointed chairman of report BIGGA

eing chairman of the British behalf. This can be changed with managment, due to the amount Any final messages? Band International Golf the improved communication of time involved in dealing with Yes, I would like to say a special Greenkeepers Association was an which is now taking place Association matters, perhaps he thanks to everyone who gave me honour which I did not set out to through Greenkeeper Interna- may well be a well known retired their support during my year as achieve, but one which I certainly tional and with members of the greenkeeper or someone associ- chairman - the members, fellow took great pride in. staff from HQ attending more ated with the greenkeeping/golf board members, Neil Thomas and I see the chairman's role out- section and region events. world. all the staff at HQ, every com- side board of management meet- pany that gives superb support to ings as one of being 'PR' or 'front How much time did it take What will you do now? the Association and last but most man', attending the various being chairman? Hopefully I can find employment of all Ailsa, without whose whole- events which are organised in If the past chairman told the which will allow me to return to hearted support and encourage- conjunction with our trade spon- incoming chairman how much greenkeeping and try to continue ment it would certainly have sors and any section/region time was required during his with life as before - if not, who been a totally different year alto- events to which he is invited. term of office he would probably knows what lies ahead? gether. It is my opinion that not resign on the spot! It is something enough of the sections/regions you want to do for the Associa- extend an invitation to the chair- tion and are willing to sacrifice man to attend their events, while your own time freely. I reckon it appreciating that someone who is took between 60-70 days, not The * VERSATILE working full-time would find it counting section and region Nikken difficult to attend them all during events in Scotland. Knapsack mower/trimmer his year in office, at least the invi- tation should be extended. Did it help being out of work? • Mows steep banks Being unemployed for part of my easily & safely What were the highlights? year of office made it easier for The highlights of my year were me to attend more functions/ • Trims bunker edges too numerous to mention but events than I would have felt quickly & neatly obviously being chairman during comfortable doing if I had still • Also performs all the the most successful BTME so far, been in employment, but it cer- duties of a normal attending the numerous functions tainly did nothing for my self- and events to which I was invited confidence. trimmer and brushcutter and the GCSAA show in Dallas, • Hedgecutting and even though I was somewhat How do you see BIGGA's cultivating heads also apprehensive about wearing a kilt future? for the first (and last?) time in Although the Association is grow- my life, are all events of which I ing slowly, there are still too will have many fond memories. many greenkeepers who are not members, which is disappointing The unique Hover Hood gives the operator free- What were the worst as the benefits which can be dom and manoeuvrability to cut steep banks quickly moments? derived from being a member are There were one or two low points numerous. We must also endeav- and easily. Knapsack design gives him the freedom during the year, which I would our to get every member to pre- and balance to mow even the most difficult banks. rather not go into, but hopefully sent a more professional image, With the hood removed and the blade changed the they were not to the detriment of ie. dress and self presentation. machine quickly becomes an efficient edge trimmer. the Association. Improved communication with Knapsack design effectively removes the engine employers needs to be achieved from flying sand so eliminates a major cause of wear What did you learn during your (a difficult task with some golf and breakdown. year? clubs) to inform them of what the I certainly learnt there are still benefits of their staff being mem- Dixon & Holliday Ltd, too many different views amongst bers can mean to the club, ie. bet- the members as to what the Asso- ter education opportunities. Unit 22, Bassett Down Industrial Estate, Hay Lane, Swindon, Wiltshire, SN4 9QP. AD ciation is about and what the I feel that in the not too distant REF board of management are future the chairman will not Tel • sales: 0462 700547. works: 0793 845199. Fax - 0793 845191 214 attempting to achieve on their come from within the board of GREENKEEPER INTERNATIONAL June 1994 13 Chris Boiling talks to Turnberry course "It's a question of getting the balance, manager George Brown to find out that's what we're looking for at the moment." what's in store for contestants in this That's why there have been a few minor year's Open Tournament modifications to the course. "These golfers are so good now, they hit George Brown has been in greenkeeping the ball so far, you have to keep making a for 40 years. He started at Princes, ho can forget the 1977 Open, few changes to keep up with them," explains Sandwich, straight from school at the age of with two of the sport's all-time George, 55, a top amateur player in his 15. He was there nine years. "When I went greats, Tom Watson and Jack younger days. there I was the boy with 11 groundstaff. Nicklaus, in peak form deciding The main differences from '86 are new When I left nine years later I was still the the championship on the 18th bunkers on the opening two holes and 17th boy...I thought I could do better for myself." green? Who can forget the 1986 Open, when and wider fairways. His next job was as the greenkeeper/pro at WGreg Norman battled against the wind and "After the '86 Open we thought the first nine-hole Alton, in Hampshire. "Someone bet rain to claim his first major title? fairway was a wee bit too narrow. Some of I could do it, I didn't think I could, but I Turnberry is hoping for an equally memo- the top-class players were hitting an iron off applied for the first job that came along, it rable tournament this year when it stages its the tee, even as low as a 4 iron, which .we happened to be Alton and I thoroughly third Open. And course manager George didn't think was the right way to start a enjoyed it. It was fantastic experience. The Brown is hoping for conditions and scores championship. So, after a bit of thought and members were very kind to me." somewhere between the two earlier events. discussion and professional advice from an He stayed for three years with one tractor In 1977 when Tom Watson won with a architect, we widened the fairway to the left and one mower. He'd cut the greens, then four-round aggregate of 268, it was hot and and put two bunkers there to make it a chal- go and cut the tees. Then give a lesson. dry. In '86, Norman shot his level par 280 lenging tee shot, and we tightened up the He went back to Princes as the gaffer and amid gale-force winds. greenside bunkers. You can still lay up short stayed for five years. Then in 1979 he joined George Brown wants Turnberry to be a fair of the bunkers if you have a head wind. If Broome Park Golf and Country Club near challenge - a stiff breeze and sunshine would there's no wind or a back wind then you can Canterbury to oversee its construction and be ideal with the top players shooting 67s easily carry them or there's a 20-yard gap if stayed on as golf manager - which meant and 68s. Without a breeze he reckons they you fancy threading the ball through the running the whole complex, including the could shoot low 60s, like Mark Hayes in '77 middle. So it's a much fairer hole." bars and restaurants. and Norman in '86, or even a 59. With too There are also two new bunkers on the In January '86 he moved to Turnberry to strong a wind many of them will struggle to second. "We thought the second hole was a prepare for the Open. Eight years later he is break 80. Planning to be fair is going to be a wee bit weak so we added bunkers left and still there and preparing for his second problem. right to tighten up Open. "It's very difficult to set up a links fairly the tee shot. Again Having been a pro and Kent amateur because if they play it how it is today, with there's about an 18- champion, we wondered if he'd ever thought no wind, they will shoot low 60s or even 20-yard gap if you about going further on the pro side. "No, I something silly like a 59. There's nothing fancy taking a made so much money when I was 24 I wrong with that. We don't mind them doing chance. It'll make decided I'd made enough to pull out of it," that but if it weakens the course too much the players think for he jokes. "No, seriously, I had no training as then some people may say it's not good the Open, especially a pro, I did it as a bet." He now plays off 4. enough to hold the Open. if there's a back

'It's just like when the mother-in-law comes over f< it's just that little bit extra effort' wind, whether to hit a wood or lay-up with an so that when the Open comes around "we that, links are supposed to be fairly natural iron." don't have to do a lot different. and fiery and supposed to have firm fairways. The bunker that was out in the rough on the "It's just like when the mother-in-law comes But now we have a new watering system, par 5 17th - "which no-one ever seemed to go over for tea on Sunday, it's just that little bit installed a couple of years ago, and hopefully in" - has been filled in and a new one built on extra effort." with proper management we'll be able to the edge of the fairway to catch a slightly way- They have revetted 90 percent of the 66 strike the balance of not making it too lush ward tee shot. "I think this will play a major bunkers over the last two winters (the other and green and not making it too strawy and role in the eventual winner of the Open Cham- 10 per cent were done three years ago and do dusty and looking unkept. I see my role here pionship. Again there's 18-20-yards on the left not need redoing). They will top-dress more as trying to keep a balance and keeping it links if you fancy driving past it. frequendy to ensure a smooth surface and step condition - firm and fast - but presented "Par 5s on links courses in the summer can up their divotting programme (using caddies nicely." play short, but this bunker may make them and paying them with free rounds on the In 1988 Turnberry was taken over by the think." Arran course). Japanese company Nitto Kogyo which owns "Presentation is the key. We're looking for about 30 courses in Japan and several more in Wider fairways perfection. But it doesn't matter how many America and has just opened The Oxfordshire All the fairways are a few paces wider. "The hours we work or what jobs we do, at the end near London. All of their other courses are criticism from the '86 Open was the width of of the day there'll still be a few jobs we'd wish green and heavily watered. the fairways. They were too narrow. One of we'd done or hadn't quite got round to. It's "I see my role here as trying to keep Turn- the most vigorous growing seasons we've ever like a garden, you never actually finish." berry traditional," George reassures us. "This had made the rough very dense and to add But he has had more time to prepare for the is the first links course that Nitto Kogyo have salt to the wounds we had horrendous 123rd Open than he did for his first one in '86. owned and it would be very easy for me with weather for three out of the four days," recalls He took over as Turnberry's course manager my irrigation computer to press a few buttons George. seven months before the championship follow- and step up the water and I have the budget More obvious differences between Turn- ing the death of Russell Brown. George said he to pile on the fertiliser to make it green and berry when Norman first won a major and seemed to spend most of his time trying to lush, but I refrain from doing that. We don't when he returns in July to defend his Royal St track down underground services and elimi- want a course like '77 where it is a struggle to George's triumph are the new £4.5m club- nate damage. But now he has detailed plans to keep grasses alive during the drought season, house (opened by the Duke of York last June), help him. but then we don't want to be like American the new leisure centre annexe to the hotel, The condition of the fairways, tees, greens courses where you play target golf on soft, and the fact that the 360-acre site, two courses and bunkers was great in '86. "Hopefully it holding greens. I look at my role as trying to and three-storey hotel have been taken over will as good, if not in better, in '94," he says. keep it 'down the middle', if you pardon the by a golf-orientated Japanese company. But don't expect it to look all green and pun - traditional but well presented." lush. George does not believe that green is George says his new bosses have been very Preparing for two years necessarily beautiful. "In early summer and supportive. They have renewed most of his George Brown and his team of 18-20 staff autumn when the fairways and whole golf machinery and provided a new 10,000 sq ft have been preparing for the Open for the last course is green and striped it does look rather maintenance facility with spacious 'bothy', couple of years. But because it is attached to a beautiful. But when you have a dry spell for a showers, drying room, soil bays, purpose-built 132-room, five-star hotel, it has to be kept in week or two and the wind gets up off the sea, chemical stores, and a proper workshop with tiptop condition 52 weeks of the year anyhow. it can go very dusty and strawy and looks grinders and hydraulic lift for his full-time They have ongoing maintenance programmes unkept at times. There's nothing wrong with mechanic. * The best sports and amenity turf starts with Mommersteeg seed

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NOW SPREADING IN YOUR AREA TOP DRESSING BUNKERSAND j R00TZ0NE TEES DRESSING ALLAGGREGATES PATH GRAVELS COCKLESHELL . The new clubhouse at Turnberry, officially opened last June by the Duke of York

Sand blow lows near it are to be turned into practice One of the biggest problems in recent years bunkers and the green extended. MAIN MACHINERY AT TURNBERRY has been sand blow. For four or five years The course closes at the end of June for running in January or February ferocious final preparations - divotting, seeding, top- Tractors/vehicles winds from the Atlantic blew sand from the dressing etc. 1 Kubota L4150 beach up over the 30-40ft dunes protecting Between now and then George will be 1 Kubota 5450 the course and upto 50 yards inland. "You involved in many meetings with the R&A, 1 Kubota L3250 couldn't stand anywhere near the sixth green BBC and various contractors. He will be 2 Kubota L2850 or 7th tees, the sand would almost cut your working closely with the contractors in plan- (one with front bucket and back hoe) face to pieces. We've had as much as 2-3ft of ning the sites for about 39 static cameras, the 4 trailers sand on the 7th tees." Which, as you can routes for the grandstand erectors, the water 1 Ford 1910 imagine, destroyed the tees, and didn't do and electricity pipes and the digging of big 4 Cushman (2 diesel, 2 petrol) much to enhance the 6th and sometimes 5th holes for septic tanks. 1 Kawasaki Mule greens. The greenstaff have wasted a lot of "It makes the day go round and it keeps us 1 Yamaha Buggy time shovelling and sweeping sand off the all occupied. Greenkeeping is just one part of 1 Daihatsu FourTrak course. "Two years ago the it," he says in his usual laid- whole squad spent two back manner. Mowers George Brown on weeks pushing sand, got it During Open week he will 2 Toro 300 D Greens Master bunkers all cleared up, then three be getting up at 3.30am to 4 Jacobsen Greens King "If you get in a bunker there weeks later it was back phone the Met Office at 3.40 2 Jacobsen Tri-King is no written rule that you're again, which is rather soul - and plan his cutting regime 1 Jacobsen LF100 supposed to get up and destroying." One year they accordingly. If it is going to 1 Ransomes Hydraulic 6 down for two or that you can even resorted to using a heli- be hot and windy he may 2 Ransomes Motor 180 hit a 5 iron out. Sometimes copter which hovered over leave the grass on the greens 1 3 Ransomes Magna you will have to hit a sand the 6th green to dry the slightly longer, "otherwise it 1 Ransomes Rota iron and be content with 10- sand, making it easier to will be like putting on glass." 3 Ransomes Marquis 60 yards. If you get in a brush off without damaging 2 Ransomes Super Cedes bunker it should cost you a The week after the Open the greens. 6 Lloyds Palladin half to one shots. is more of a problem for They tried planting mar- George. "When the Open's 2 Lloyds Ariel "Bunkers are not just ram grasses, but they disap- finished, all the contractors 1 Lloyds (trailed) visual things, they're here pered with high tides. Then etc want to do is get their 2 Fairway Spikers for a purpose." last year they installed snow material away from here 1 Toro Greens Aerator fences (500 yards worth) in onto the next site. Obviously 1 Ryan Mataway Overseeder short sections pointing out to sea like they're not so careful taking it down as they 1 Charterhouse Bulk Fairway Top- groynes. It seems to have done the trick. "This were putting it up. That's when most of the dresser is the first year in six years that we haven't damage can be done to the ground, especially 1 Verti-drain had any sand blow, so we're pleased with if we turn away." that. And we're going into the summer with Once the Open is over, George can start the 6th green and 7th tees looking quite good planning the other big jobs that need doing, for a change. That was my only concern..." like additional landscaping around the club- house and upgrading the Arran course in Shaping up readiness for the 1996 British Amateur event The contractors moved in at the beginning of which will be played over both courses - April and started laying the cables for the qualifying on the Arran and the finals on tented village which will be sited on the prac- Ailsa. tice area between the two courses. This "It's one big merry-go-round," says a con- means the second hole of the Arran course tented George, who also has a big personal becomes the practice ground with a grand- golfing date to look forward to - his debut in stand and the 18th green on the Arran is used the British Seniors in August, along with St for additional putting practice. Grassy hol- Andrews' Walter Woods. A NEW SLANT ON AERATORS SISIS have been producing aerators since the 1930's and can now offer you the widest possible choice from a range of seventeen models. From the simple hand fork to tractor mounted deep slitters, vertical aerators and the Powadrill, SISIS aerators offer a choice of tines and working depths from 76mm to 305mm. We've spent 60 years perfecting our craft. If you'd like to know

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AD REF 176 Constructor is given golf course FLYING DIVOTS

• If you want to see an Etesia UK Ltd product in action, for in settlement of six-figure debt example the new RKE pedestrian rotary olf course constructor Brian D Pierson has mower with grass Gopened his own course. Run by eldest son collection, then Mark, Hamptworth Golf and Country Club, on the Spencer edge of the New Forest, was given to the Piersons to Southall is the settle a six-figure debt by the original developers, man to contact. Hamptworth Park Leisure, who had a 125-year lease The 24-year- on the land. old table The Piersons started building the course in 1991, tennis champion then stopped halfway through when the developers' has been appointed money ran out. Eighteen months of negotiations demonstrator for the Ross-on- later the company which has built more than 180 Mark Pierson, Robert Key MP and Brian Pierson Wye company. golf courses worldwide took over the whole project, Based on a Philip Sanders design, it measures Tel: 0462 490190 scaling down the plan for a grandiose clubhouse. 6,500 yards off the back tees and features several Laid out over 175 acres, running in and out of the intimidating, tree-lined tee shots, some monster • More than 220 companies 700-acre English Nature-managed Langley Wood, bunkers and a par 5 of 582 yards. are booked in at the Hamptworth has the potential to become one of the Water hazards are provided by the River Blackwa- Landscape Industries show best courses in the south-west. ter as it meanders through the course, which was June 8/9 at the National Newly-appointed head greenkeeper Keith Hill- opened last month by Salisbury MP Robert Key. Agricultural Centre, Jones says he wants to make it the best course in the Other hazards are natural too - plenty of trees and Stoneleigh Park, area in the next couple of years. hedges and only 19 bunkers. Warwickshire. Greens are built to Jim Arthur specifications. The 9th and 18th holes finish on a double green guarded • The Greenkeeping Supply by a massive bunker which one over-enthusiastic Company has been set up by writer described as being "as big as the Isle of Liam Galway. He will be Wight". supplying course furniture One of the most daunting holes is the 360-yard from Tacit, Pattissons and 14th which doglegs slightly to the right once you Standard Golf, as well as have driven through an avenue of trees that may clothing and tools. make even the best players consider using a 4 iron. Tel/fax: 0245 248880. Construction of a 6,500 sq ft clubhouse is planned for next year. DESIGNED FOR THE 90s Slitters/aerators from Amazone Ground Care

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AD REF 7 Tel: (0440) 702312 Fax: (0440) 712138 Grass seed shortage is on FLYING DIVOTS

• Arcot Hall Golf Club's Ian the cards, warns supplier Duncan, 32, is off to Germany to take over the head There could be a shortage of some types of amenity this year's spring trade has been later, causing trad- greenkeeper's job at grass seed and a firmer price pattern during the next ing over a longer period," he says. "This has helped Sennelager (British Army) few months, warns Derek Whelbourn, wholesale to clear what initially was an apparent surplus and .Golf Club. director of Johnsons Seeds. now replacement stocks of seed are urgently needed The situation, he claims, has arisen through a for filling empty spaces in merchants' premises." • McNab Sports combination of factors. "The weather has meant that Additional factors which have contributed to the Supplies of stock shortage are: considerable exports of seed Kinross have from Europe to the USA; and lower seed production appointed Neil New courses to open acreage in Europe and the UK than in previous Mitchell as area years. representative near Gatwick Airport "The combination of factors has occurred at a time to cover golf of the year when replacement stocks are not easily clubs in Fife, Two new golf courses are being built near available," said Mr Whelbourn. "New crop seed will Tayside, Grampian and Gatwick Airport. The 18-hole Duxhurst Estate not be available until the autumn trading is well Highland regions. Neil course, on a mature parkland site south of under way, meaning that the balance of the spring previously worked for Perth Reigate, is to be laid out as a 6,250-yard par trade and the coming autumn trade will have to be and Kinross District Council 71 course with comprehensive practice and supplied out of current stock. During the late spring as a greenkeeper, looking teaching facilities. and early summer it is almost certain there will be a after golf courses, bowling Architect Howard Swan says it will feature shortage of certain types of grass seed, leading to an greens and cricket squares. modest remodelling of the natural terrain inevitable hardening of prices." In 1989 he was awarded the and have some water features on the lower title of Young Groundsman of parts of the land. Work began mid-May with the Year. Tel: 0577 864198. full play scheduled for late spring '96. Castle Combe bought The Home Park Golf Academy at nearby • The Whitbread Group of Castle Combe Golf Club in Wiltshire has been Horley, also designed by Swan, is a 2,700- Hotels, whose golf courses bought by the son of a local hotelier. Danny yard nine-hole par 34 course with range, include Forest of Arden, St Pecorelli, whose father Guiseppi owns the nearby chipping and bunker areas. Continental Pierre, Dalmahoy, Meon Manor House Hotel, is believed to have paid Landscapes are constructing the academy Valley, and Tewkesbury Park, £2.5million for the course which cost £8million to and ISS are supplying the Toro irrigation has been renamed the build in 1991. Pecorelli plans to run the Peter equipment. Home Park is likely to open its Country Club Hotel Group. doors later this year, with the course in play Alliss/Clive Clark-designed course in the same way mid-'95. as his other club - Mannings Heath in West Sussex where a second 18 holes is under construction.

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Keeping in touch with news and comment from the regions

SOUTH WEST Teeside GC is hoping to build a new greenkeepers' "An excellent show." "The best yet." "Very worthwhile shed. exhibiting." EVENTS DIARY BIGGA's vice-chairman Barry Heaney was among the Just some of the remarks made about Westurf from guests who turned up at Eaglescliffe GC for my 30-year both visitors and the trade alike, who were there in even June 8-9: BALI Trade Show, Stoneleigh service dinner. A trophy has been named in honour of greater strength this year. I am sure those sentiments June 29: Southturf, Turf Care Trade Exhibition, long service, and Cleveland BIGGA presented four would be echoed by the majority who took time out to Motspur Park, south west London engraved wine glasses. I thank you all sincerely for your visit the exhibition at Long Ashton Golf Club on April July 14-17: Open Championship, Turnberry good wishes and I shall continue as your section chair- 27. On a day spoilt only by the occasional shower, the August 1-3: National Tournament, Dartmouth Golf man with pleasure. Thanks to Ian Holleran and Gary range of machinery and accessories on display was Club, Devon Munro for organising the event and to George Malcolm extensive with what appeared to be record gate atten- for his excellent speech. September G-8: Saltex (previously loG) Trade dances, judging by the full car park. Exhibition, Royal Windsor Racecourse, BRUCE BURNELL Westurfs success is again largely down to the unre- Berkshire. lenting enthusiasm and organisation of Gordon and September 22: Hayter Challenge Final, Pannal Golf AYRSHIRE Marion Child, whose planning for 95's event will no Club, Harrogate Our thanks go to Thornhill GC for allowing us to use doubt be starting again in the near future. Our thanks their course for our spring outing. The course was in November 9-10: Scotsturf, Ingleston, Edinburgh go to them, Long Ashton as hosts, the many section good condition, especially considering that the whole members who helped prior to the event and on the day, December 1 : Scottish Region North Section place had a covering of snow the week before our visit. one-day conference at Craibstone Estate, too numerous to mention all by name, but in particular Our thanks to head greenkeeper Hunter Tarbett for Bucksburn, Aberdeen Robin Greaves. Finally, thanks to the trade and your- preparing a good test of golf, and to the catering staff selves for visiting January 25-27, 1995: BTME '95, Harrogate for first-class fare. International Centre A less than average attendance played at Chippen- The golf itself was of the mixed variety, the early sea- ham Golf Club on April 21 in what was the Spring Tour- son sclaffs, shanks and missed putts being interspersed nament and section's Hayter Qualifier. Those who with the odd good (or lucky) shot, but overall the scores GC. Should they wish to be transferred they should get played around a compact little venue were treated to a were fairly good, and the excellent turnout of over 40 in touch with Gary Munro on 0642 785195. course and greens in excellent condition, especially con- members had a great time. C Wayman from South Shields has been transferred sidering the earliness of the season and previous winter from Cleveland to North East. Results: scratch - Keith McCartney, Dumfries Gal- conditions. Course manager Chris Sealey and his staff The total membership including trade is now 114 and loway, 73; 1st class - 1, William McMeikam, Turnberry, take the credit for the conditions which made for an there are still greenkeepers not in BIGGA yet. 75-9-66; 2, lan McNab, Dumfries County, 75-4-71; 3, enioyable round. The spring competition at South Moor GC was well Bob McKay, Prestwick St Nicholas, 82-9-73; 2nd class - Thanks are extended to Hayter, the sponsors again attended and our thanks go to the committee for grant- 1, Duncan Gray, Mitchell and Struthers 83-10-73; 2, this year, for their participation and prize funding, to ing us the courtesy of this fine moorland course and of Paul Rae, Brunston Castle, 91-17-74; 3, Jimmy John- Chippenham GC for hosting the event, to the steward for course to Tommy Fenwick, the head greenkeeper, for stone, Turnberry, 91-16-75; 3rd class - 1, Steven a first-class meal and to greens chairman Andre Waring the fine condition of it. Knaggs, Dumfries County, 97-25-72; 2 Jim Paton, West for his generosity in providing the wine and the "conta- Our thanks also go to Hamish McFie for presenting Kilbride, 94-19-75; 3, Gary Crosbie, Dumfries County, gious" joke that, hopefully, Chris took in good faith. the prizes to the winners of each category in the Hayter 98-22-76; new member - Jason Buxton, Bogside, 97-24- The next two fixtures for '94 are the section match v Challenge and to the following companies for donations 73; trade - Kevin Brunton, Souters, 73; Texas scramble - the secretaries on June 28 and the summer tournament to the prize table: Ryton Gravel Co, TurfCare, Shorts of 1, Ian McNab, John Kinder, Keith McCartney, Robert at Filton GC on July 27. Whitburn, Supaturf, Swarland GC, Warkworth Village Bruce 60.4; 2, Kevin Brunton, Jimmy Johnstone, Bob KEVIN GREEN GC and South Moor GC. Mckay, Dougie Drain. Best gross was David Cuthbertson's 76 on home soil. Movements this month are Steven Fraser from NORTH EAST Best nett was Brian Udberg of Tynemouth GC. Best assis- Annanhill to the head greenkeeper position at Caldwell Firstly let me welcome more new members to the sec- tant's nett score was Barry Wilson of Stocksfield GC. GC, and new to the section is Colin Higginbottom as tion: P Jackson and D Little of Backworth GC, K Hope JIMMY RICHARDSON head greenkeeper at the Crighton Royal GC in Dumfries. and C Seedhouse of Gosforth GC, J Devlin of Wearside Finally, the new video produced by BIGGA called GC; G Frater of Alston Moor GC. CLEVELAND Keeper of the Green is available on loan, on request The following new members prefer to be in the North Stressholme GC, Darlington, has opened a new driving from headquarters or section secretaries. East section rather than the Cleveland section: Y range and we welcome their three staff, who maintain DUNCAN GRAY Carmichael of Eaglescliffe GC, R Ord of Castle Eden GC, the course and range, as new members. They are Liam K Varley of Crook GC, A Savins of Catterick Garrison Appleby, Martin Corner and Terry Hepplestall. NORTH WEST The annual tournament between the North West and North Wales sections, played at Oaklands GCC, was halved. Unfortunately, due to lack of numbers or inter- est, both teams could only field a team of 12, instead of Southturf on course for successful debut the required 16, but competitively nothing was lacking. The course, which is reasonably new and has great Southturf is set to make its mark on the trade charity golf clinic is to be staged. Greenkeepers potential, played long in gale-force winds but both show calendar when it makes its debut on will be able to have their swings analysed by a teams mastered the wind and played good golf. Wednesday June 29, 10am-5pm at Motspur Park PGA professional in exchange for a small dona- On the other hand I played what was supposed to be in south-west London. tion. The pavilion will be open all day for refresh- a friendly game with Andy Hardie from Gem Profes- Organised by the South-East region of BIGGA, ments. But best of all, parking, entrance and sional who told me he had not played since last summer more than 35 companies have catalogue are free. but hit the ball like a pro. I did manage eventually to already booked space with Anyone connected with the turf wear him down and beat him 4 and 3, but the wind and the undulations certainly took its toll on both of us. An many more promising to be trade can attend but greenkeep- unlikely pairing of Bill Merritt and Jane Ryan played a there. ers are actively encouraged great game with Bill sinking a 10ft putt on the 18th But this event is going to be because the purpose of the event green to win, and his partner Jane on her hands and more than just an exhibition. As is to raise money to improve the knees, with her head buried in a grass mound not dar- well as being able to view the service that BIGGA members in ing to look. latest machinery and products, the south-east receiveand to An excellent meal followed the golf, paid for by Gem there is an education marquee where the colleges increase the number of education events at both Professional who sponsored the day. Many thanks to will be available to discuss courses, and a turf section and regional level. But to achieve these them and to Oaklands GCC for their hospitality and for allowing us the courtesy of their excellent course. clinic where leading agronomists and greenkeep- aims, it is important that as many greenkeepers as The next section golf is the summer meeting on Mon- ers will analyse your hole plugs (so bring a sample possible turn up on the day to prove to exhibitors day July 25 at Stockport GC. Soup and sandwiches with you). The Greenkeepers Training Committee that the event is worthwhile. between 12 and 1pm and tee off from 1.30pm. Applica- will be on hand to answer questions regarding To get there, follow the AA signs. tions in writing to Paul Pearse, 1 Swan Close, Poynton, greenkeeper training. There will be a special Further details are available from David Wood on Stockport SKI2 1HX, enclosing a deposit of £10 by July exhibit of weather recording equipment. Outside a 0342 850875 or 0850 162401. 18. I would like to welcome any new members to the NW section and hope you will come along to the events event and helping out on the day. arranged during the year and meet your fellow green- Another popular event was once again organised by keepers. A number of members of the NW section have Around the Green Jamie Bennett. The venue was the Bracknell indoor cir- not renewed their membership this year, and I would be cuit and the event was the RPK Superkart Challenge. interested to know the reason why. Is it too expensive? The racing was excellent and the final resulted in a win Has your golf club failed to pay your subscriptions? Or for Jamie Bennett. In second place was the past cham- are their other reasons? Your views may help make the pion, Cameron McMillan, and third was Murray Long. Association better. Please write to me at Harthill Lodge, Many thanks, Jamie, for organising the event. Harthill Road, Liverpool L18 3HU or phone me on 051 TONY DUNSTAN 7245412. BERT CROSS EAST ANGLIA Our first outing of the year was the Hayter Tournament SURREY ing the event every year. The date will be confirmed in a at Rochford Hundred GC in Essex. The clubhouse is Our Spring Tournament/Hayter Qualifier took place at later issue. probably the oldest in the country and was once the Maiden GC. Thanks go to A Bradshaw and his staff for PAUL LOCKETT home of Anne Boleyn, which accounts for us playing like turning out the course in such good condition and headless ducks. thanks also to Maiden GC. The results are as follows: 1, EAST MIDLANDS The course itself was in good condition thanks to 'HE' R Christie, 139 on countback; 2, D Walder, 139; 3, P Our section's Spring Tournament and Hayter Qualifier Wells and his men, I only hope he can keep his head. Careswell, 141; 4, J Rigg, 141; nearest the pin - M Lin- was held at Sherwood Forest GC. Thirty-nine took part The pot hunters are listed elsewhere, but the longest coln Smith; best am - A Locke; best pm - D Wyborn; in the competition on a very scenic and well maintained drive went to Mike Verley - 2ft 6in, only one on the fair- scratch - S Haynes; trade - D Searles. course. The category winners were: 0-9 - P Tatlow, 10- way; nearest the pin went to Stuart McGeer - 300 yards, Events to look forward to include England v Scotland 18 - A Foulds 19-28 - G Robson, and trade and associ- it was a big green. Keith Hacket won the guest prize - a at Leatherhead GC on July 13 and the McMillan ates - M Franklin. whistle and a red card! All prizes were presented by Tankard at Sunningdale GC on August 11 A thank you should go to everyone at Sherwood For- Henry VIII or Dick Jones Cpt. Our thanks to the trade - Congratulations to Brian Gibbs on his appointment as est for offering their courtesy and hospitality at such Rush Brooks Kings, Parkers, Does, Sisis, Rigby Taylor course manager at the new Park Wood golf complex in short notice. Also thanks to all the trade for their kind and especially Mike Lincoln-Smith of Hayters for a super Westerham, Kent. Many congratulations also go to Effin- donation of prizes for the day, especially Hayter and day. Thank you Rochford Hundred for having us. gham GC's Peter Broadbent and his wife on the birth of Erringtons of Leicester, and a special thanks to all the As you may know, Steve Freestone has finally gone to their baby, Samantha. section committee members for their valuable work on Australia. He used to enjoy his days out and I'm sure he Ted Stiles of the Drift Bridge GC reports that they the day. Hope to see you all at Wellingborough GC on will be missed. Eaton is not the same. Life goes on how- have been victims of an arson attack, and that 95 per September 28.1 would also like to take this opportunity ever and his younger brothr Paul is my first assistant. He cent of the club's equipment was lost in the fire. This of wishing all the secton's qualifiers the best of luck in will be playing golf soon. included all the machinery that Ted had overhauled the Hayter regional final. Uncle Bob Chesham says to remind you about a during the winter. Head greenkeeper Paul Weston and This month we welcome the following new members to Grounds and Greens seminar at Newmarket Racecourse his staff would like to convey their thanks to all parties our section: Stephen James, Brian Hill and Mark Long- on July 12 and 13. Topics include drainage and aera- involved in the loan of machinery which enabled the mate, all from Grassmoor Golf Centre and Gordon tion, renovation and communication. All good stuff. club to continue working. Smith of Breadsall Priory Golf and Country Club. Speakers include Martyn Jones, John Philp and Duncan DAVID GIBBS ANTONY BINDLEY McGilvray. Funny things committees. A greenkeeper I know DEVON AND CORNWALL SCOTTISH EAST spent 20-odd years bringing a course up to scratch. He Our congratulations go to Gordon and Marion Child The section's Spring Tournament took place over Gul- struggled for 15 years with a total of four men. He who once again superbly organised this year's Westurf lane No2 on April 12. Glorious sunshine greeted the finally got an extra man and the course turned the cor- trade show at Long Ashton GC, Bristol. 60+ competitors who recorded some fine scores in an ner. All looking good, rave reports. One of his men, his Also our thanks to all the companies that took trade attempt to qualify for the Hayter finals. The course was first assistant left, a simple task to replace him, to keep stands and to all of you who turned up on the day, mak- in its usual great condition, and our grateful thanks go the course up to scratch you would think. Not so. Back ing the show such a success. to Paul Sago, Willie Robertson and their staff. Thanks to four men. Greenkeeper not happy, members not The abuse of the membership card for free golf or also go to the catering staff for their first-class meals and happy. The amateur dramatic society strikes again. reduced green fees by some of our members was the Gullane GC for the courtesy. MICK LATHROPE brought to the attention of your section committee The match committee, at the end of a long day, had recently. Although the membership card doesn't men- some work to do separating the leaders, which eventu- CENTRAL SCOTLAND tion how many rounds should be played per annum, ally went to countbacks. See the list of qualifiers below. The visit to Ibrox Stadium, home of Glasgow Rangers, members must remember that the card is a privilege and Our patrons prize this year went to I Thomson of turned out to be a great success with over 60 members should be treated as such. Anyone who abuses the card Provan Chemicals with a nett 64. Our grateful thanks to present (Fergus McCann and Co failed to appear, will put the privilege of courtesy golf at risk. our patrons who do so much for us over the year and although there was someone wearing a Celtic tie). I As a guide I would suggest that members shouldn't are ever-present at our tournaments and social events. won't be disclosing the names of the members who got use their card for courtesy golf more than five times in There were 13 companies represented and, as they the date wrong and turned up the day before, but a pho- any year, the less the better. Clubs will always have the know, we are always delighted to see them. tograph of one of them appeared in an earlier edition of right to refuse any member a courtesy round. Members Other guests included Bill Lynch of BIGGA and the GI. to be fair, he did return on the correct day with a bit should always ring the club they wish to visit well in Hayter representatives. Gordon Moir, our Scottish chair- more colour in his face than usual. advance as common courtesy. man, also graced our company and presented the prizes Pitch superintendent Allan Ferguson and his staff RICHARD WHYMAN to the winners. gave us a full tour of the stadium and an insight into the Our next tournament is the summer half-day event at problems of having to produce a pitch for Premier MID ANGLIA Lothianburn GC on June 8. League football in just six weeks from date of sowing, Neil Thomas, the executive director of BIGGA, visited All members will be receiving the new fixture card not an easy task. Thanks to everyone at Ibrox for the the section in March. By all accounts he gave a detailed which includes dates for tournaments, lectures and hospitality which was extended to us. insight into where BIGGA is going, including details to social events. Our thanks go to Steven Dixon for this Following the super attendance at Ibrox, the Spring be included in the review. excellent piece of work. Our only hope is that the events Tournament at Monifieth Links was another successful Our first golf event of the year was at Harpenden GC, published will be supported. event with over 70 members and guests enjoying a day Herts. The weather was kind and the 46 members Our annual quiz night was held at the Black Bull on away from work (judging by some of the scores some enjoyed the day, although I'm not sure if anyone April 27. A very good attendance was recorded. An may have wished they had stayed there). Although the enjoyed a 36-hole medal. Our thanks go to Harpenden attendance such as this makes the organisation worth- weather was very blustery, it remained dry and every- for their hospitality and to Stewart Boyes and his team while. Forty people sat down to do battle for the quiz one completed their round with the main prize winners for preparing such a neat course and excellent greens trophy, and the eventual winners were Stewart & Co for being: best scratch - J Ellis, Glenbervie, 82; best nett - W for the time of year. We wish Harpenden a successful the second year running. The runners-up were Three Whitfield, Stirling, 77; 1st class -1, J Duncan, Aberdour, centenary year. Ladies and a Tramp. Medals will be presented at the 78; 2, T O'Connor, Carnoustie, 79; 2nd class - 1, A As is usual in a medal event, low handicap golfers annual dance. We hope to see the same crowd and more Robertson, Grangemouth, 80; 2, A Wade, Haggs Castle, filled the first three places, Jon Moorhouse of Brocket at the Skittles night on May 13. 80; Stewart Quaich - W Whitfield, J Easton, Stirling, Hall, playing off 6, won with a total of 144. Ronan McK- Congratulations to Billy Hudson who has moved from 160; Patrons prize - K Brunton, Souters, 76; Two-ball eown of Arkely was second playing off 4 with 148. Liberton GC to Newbattle as first assistant and to Paul foursomes - J Clark, J Easton, Stirling, 32; Guest - K Third was David Forsyth of Mid Herts with 148 also, Bowden who has moved from Newbattle to work with Younger, Stirling, 84. playing off 6. Congratulations to our winners and to all Sports Turf Services. Our sincere thanks go to Bill Jarret and his staff for players who qualified for the regional final. WILLIE BLAIR having the course in such excellent condition so early in Unfortunately, the BB&O section whose turn it is to the season, the clubhouse staff for the first-class meals stage the regional final have failed as yet to come up LONDON and service throughout the whole day, Monifieth Links with a venue or date. As soon as this is loiown, it will be I would like to thank Porters Park GC for allowing us to secretary Harry Nicholl for all his assistance and for sort- conveyed to all qualifiers. Anyone who can't make the hold our Spring Tournament and Hayter Qualifier at ing out the mix-up in our tee times and to Hamish date should let Gerald or myself know so that reserves their course. We were made most welcome and the McFie for presenting the prizes. can be drafted in. course was in excellent condition - Martin Smith and his Shift of power? Two trade members who are on the Our thanks go to Rigby Taylor for providing the prize staff have done a great job. I would also like to thank move are Central Section committee member John table and members of the trade for donating raffle Peter Phillips and the catering manager for allowing us Yeats and his colleague Les Westwater from Sisis in prizes. Two other prizes were awarded, one for the to use the club facilities. Falkirk who have joined Power Shift in Dundee. Best longest drive which went to David Forsyth, the other The overall winner was John Jackson from Wanstead wishes to you both and every success in the future. nearest the pin which was won by J Burton. GC and his score of 34 points proved how tough Porters With interest increasing in section events, it is The next golf fixture is the Summer Tournament at Park is off the back tees.. The qualifiers are listed below intended to organise a wider variety of subjects, so Brampton GC, Huntingdon on July 26. and the other winners were: nearest the pin - Pat Swinn please make an effort to complete and return the ques- Finally, Mentmore GC will be the venue for the Autumn and Colin Forde; longest drive - Andrew Toomey. tionaire which was circulated to every member earlier Tournament, to give Neil Whittaker a break from hold- I would also like to thank the trade for supporting the this year, or drop me a line with your choice of subjects. WHEN you consider that RPK is one of the ONLY companies continually striving to improving its overall service with THE emphasis on always supplying the BES1 products available it is not surprising to learn that we have quickly established a reputation second to none. Put us to the test and find out what we TURF CARE and the products below can and WILL DO SUPPLIES for you.

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A NEW WORLD IN LEISURE AMENITIES We are hoping to organise an inter-club five-a-side goes from strength to strength. By 10.30am we'd run football tournament later in the year, so if anyone has out of catalogues and by 11am we needed extra car any budding stars on their staff, fill in the form when it parking space, so I'd say that numbers were definitely arrives and get in training for the big day. Fuller details Around the Green up on last year. It was good to see so many faces from will be circulated soon.. the South Wales section supporting this regional event, JOHN CRAWFORD something that has been lacldng in the past - well done! It's this kind of backing that will allow the region to con- NORTH WALES tinue to subsidise our education programme both now 110 members and guests played in our Spring Toruna- and in the future. The section would like to thank Gor- ment over the new layout at Carden Park near Chester. don and Marion Child for all their hard work and effort The winners were as follows: Lesco Cup for best nett, in organising a truly magnificent exhibition. donated by Richard Campey - Terry Adamson, 76; run- Lastly, congratulations to Mr and Mrs Andrew Philips ners-up, decided by countback - Pat Valentine, Ian Buck- few more of last year's members have rejoined, but on the birth of their baby boy. Unfortunately, Andrew ley, Chris Davies, Alan Gillies, all with nett 77s; guests - there is still some to go. missed the Hayter Qualifier because of the untimely 1, JC Harris, 76; 2, G Perks, 77; 3, D Postles, 78; High- A big thank you must go to David Golding and his arrival of the youngster - better luck next year! speed Rose Bowl for best gross - Ian Farrall, 83; nearest colleagues at the GTC who have given the section a the pin - Val Wickens. grant for our one-day conference in Aberdeen this NORTHERN During the day John Garner, the ex-Ryder Cup December. This will enable us to reduce the entrance fee Our Spring Competition and Hayter Qualifier was player, entertained visitors with his very humorous golf by £2 per person to the benefit of all. played at Bingley St Ives GC, Bingley. The sun shone for show. We extend our grateful thanks to John whose A North member currently making a name for himself us, the course was in excellent condition, the food was efforts helped raise £345 for the Fight Leukaemia in in another sport is Kingussie's assistant Michael Clarke. first-class, and everyone that took part had an excellent Chester Charity. On a personal note I would like to wish He is captain of the all conquering Kingussie shinty day. I must thank head greenkeeper Joe Baxter and his John and Melanie all the best in their new venture at St team, who are yet again winning just about everything team for preparing such an excellent course under such Mellion. this year. Now we know how he hits the ball so true and adverse weather conditions. I must also thank St Ives The event was also the section qualifier for the straight at section outings. GC for allowing us the use of their course and their Hayter Challenge, with the top three in each handicap Tain assistant John Urquhart is the latest member to beautiful new clubhouse, which had only been open section going forward to the regional finals at Worsley join the North District golf team, albeit as a trialist, but three weeks. GC on July 20. he performed well and if his early season scores and The results: 9-hole stableford - 1, David Collins, Pon- Prizes were donated by the following companies and pounding of the Tain practice ground are anything to go tefract GC; 18-hole medal - Div 1: 1, Garry Potter, Skip- once again we would thank the trade for their continu- by he will soon get his debut proper. With so many ton GC, 2 David Spurden, Ganton GC; 3, Mick Hannan, ing support: Richard Campey, Highspeed Oils, Gem Pro- members in various district teams, I am trying to fix up Moortown GC; Div 2: 1, John Waite, Temple Newsam fessional, Manmersteeg, Bathgate Silica Sands, Walker a challenge match against the North District to see how GC; 2, Arthur Baxter, Bingley St Ives GC; 3, Graham Brothers, Acorn, Carden Park and last but not least we fair. Club members could be forgiven for thinking we Oxley, Scarcroft GC; Div 3: 1, Alan Gamble, Pannal GC; Hayters pic. spend more time golfing than working, I just put it 2, Dennis Cockburn, Silsden GC; 3, Les Kirkbright. In closing I would like to thank all my greenstaff for down to natural ability! Once again big thanks to all the sponsors, namely yet another incredible effort - well done lads. The North section will be well represented in the Norman Sheddon (Aitkens) for looking after the cards ANDY CAMPBELL greenkeeper support team at this year's Open Champi- for us and for donating a prize table, also to Andy Law onship at Turnberry. Gordon Mckie, Paul Murphy, Gor- (Martin Brothers), Clive Heginbotham (ICI) and our NORTH SCOTLAND don Moir and I will be there to fly the flag. I'm sure it main sponsor Hayter for their donations to the prize Another batch of new members as the recruitment drive will be a great success and, as usual, George Brown will table. Thanks also go to Gerald Brady of Rhone-Poulenc continues. First up is Hugh Mclatchie's newly qualified have the course in excellent condition. for donaing the prize for the nearest the pin once again. assistant Aileen Snowden, followed by Kevin Halley, IAIN MACLEOD Robert Gee, who was on the committee of the North- apprentice at Ballater, and E J Auldhouse, an assistant ern section, has left us and Yorkshire to take up the with Perth and Kinross District Council. Transferring SOUTH WALES position of course manager at Faithlegg GC in Eire. The into the section we welcome George Asher and Philip The south Wales section's Hayter Qualifier and Spring course is a par 72 championship course. Robert says that Don from Kemnay, William Caswell from Dundee, Brian Tournament was held at Newport GC, Rogerstone. The he would like to thank the section, especially Bob Lup- Strachan from Aberdeen and Elmwood students Peter course was in superb condition, presented to an ton for training and educating him, and for being such a Dunning of Kirriemuir and David McRitchie of Forres. A extremely high standard by Robert Johnston and his good friend over a number of years. Robert, all I can team, the weather couldn't say, as I usually do, is may all your problems be little have been better and the ones. evening meal was excel- I have also heard that Larry Murcott, formerly of lent. What more could you Macclesfield GC has now joined Mid-Yorkshire GC. New ask for? A better atten- members to welcome include Graham Green of dance perhaps! Ganstead Park, John Mullany of Bradley Hall and Ray- Robin Boyes of Hayter's mond Price of Grange Park. presented each category PAT MURPHY winner (results below) with a superb set of cut- SOUTH COAST glass crystal brandy glasses. Our Spring Tournament was held at the Test Valley Golf Winner of the Cardiff Cup Club. After weeks of unsettled weather we had a super was Andrew Jenkins, nett day except for a swift torrential shower during the 70. Robert Johnston took morning, one of those that by the time you seek shelter the Waycott Shield with a the rain has stopped but you're soaked anyway. Nearly 73 gross and Ted Thomp- 40 played so this was a good turnout for the first outing son won the John O'Gor- of the year. man Cup with a nett 71. Test Valley has only been open for two years and is Trade winner with a nett maturing fast. Laid out on the lines of the great old links 68 was Terry Adamson. courses of Scotland and Ireland (Ballybunion was what Our sincere thanks to the Eammon Darcy, the consultant, had in mind). Bunkers Parker Hart are the south east's most established trade again for their won- are a particular feature of the course. These certainly derful support, namely caused the most comment over dinner! turf company. Avoncrop, Farmura, Our thanks go to Nicholas McDonagh, the president Hayters, Gem Professional, and owner for the courtesy of the course Also to Andy We stock an extensive range of turf care products Ted/Chriss Hopkins and Blackwell and his team for the presentation of the Colin Murphy. Thanks also course. But, of course, there's more to the day than the including our own 'Verdant' range of seeds and go to John Pemberton from golf and Kevin West and the catering and bar staff fertilisers and are main distributors for Grace- BIGGA HQ for putting him- looked after everyone really well. self on the hot spot, to We would also like to thank our sponsors Huxleys Sierra, Rhone Poulenc, ICI, Vitax, Mommersteeg Grayham Harris the captain Grass Machinery and Jim Fry our president, who was and Johnsons. We also supply Roffey Brothers' and to the staff and cater- unable to be with us. Also our raffle prizes were donated ers of Newport GC who all by Avoncrop, Jenman Engineering, Romsey Garden range of quality top dressings and root zones. ensured a magnificent day Machinery and Sta-Brite. My apologies if I have left any- was had. one out. Backed by an experienced salesforce and first The 'Birds' annual golf and This was the first tournament organised by Bob Cully demonstration day was and Mark Webb. Well done to both of them. It's a good class delivery service we aim to be YOUR first held at Royal Porthcawl job that members like Bob and Mark come forward to GC. The weather again was take on these tasks or nothing would happen. choice. fine, albeit a little breezy, Results were as follows: Tregunna Trophy - Joe New- and the event was well man; Rosebowl - Paul Fitzjohn; Rophy Cup - Paul Jack- attended. Thanks go to son; Denyer Cup - Shaun White; Nita Stimson Trophy - PARKER HART Roger and Jeff Bird for Gordon Payne; Christopher Fry Trophy - Robert T. Parker & Sons (Turf Management) Limited, ensuring this long-stand- Crouch. ing, enjoyable event Our next tournament is at Southwick Park on August Maiden Green Farm, Worcester Park, Surrey KT4 7NF. remains firmly attached to 15. Will previous trophy winners please remember to Tel: 081-337 7791. Fax: 081-330 7392 our fixture card each year. bring their silverware with them or, if you can't make Westurf. What more can it, give it to the organiser prior to the event. one say? The show that ALAN MITCHELL Com ûHdjoiH the fand! SUSSEX SOUTH WEST: 0-9 - N Wilson, P Godwin, M Hating, A Our '94 season started with the superb venue of Willing- Parker; 10-18 - S Shipley, R Greaves, D Neale, J York, P don GC down on the south coast at Eastbourne. Peter Around the Green Ferragut; 19-28 - A Johnson, P Seviour, C Sealey, L Negus and his staff as usual presented the course in Johnson, D Bougen. The regional final is at Bude GC on superb condition. June 15. The day started at 7.30 for breakfast in the club- SCOTTISH EAST: 0-9 - G Ferguson, G White, G Thom- house, and it seems strange how everybody turns up on son, C Gilholm; 10-18 - R Dugan, J Lockerbie, C Yea- time when there's food about!. Being such a good man, J Neilson; 19-28 - A Forrest, W Armstrong, D turnout, two tees were utilised and the first pair of Marshall, G Stavert. triples went off from the 1st and 10th at about 8.15am. LONDON: 0-9 - John Jackson, Richard Andrews, Ian We had to struggle for most of the morning with sea Semple and Andrew Toomey; 10-18 - Don Wilson, Rus- mist which kept rolling in from the Channel and then sel Ling and Robert Washbrook; 19-28 - Doug Smith, laying in the bowl from which the course was originally lunch followed by an interesting demonstration of a Pat Swinn, Peter Dawson and Andrew Smith. built. The sun finally shone at around midday, and what grinding machine. Our thanks go to Supreme Mowing EAST ANGLIA: 0-9 - 1, Richard Pride, 72; Andy Shin, with the beer at lunchtime and another 18 holes of hill- and to Paul Wakefield and Steve Burgin for giving us 73; Neil Chapman, 76; Michael Fance, 77; 10-18 - Ian walking, I'm not sure what caused all the red faces! Per- the lecture, for their hospitality and their time. There Willit, 66, Mike Verley 70, Sam Sylvester 70, 'HG' Wells haps it was the scores! were 25 members present. 74; 19-28 - Jim Tims, 72, Richard Mitchell 73, Steve Stefan Antolik did a brilliant job as tournament The new lecture season starts in October but I look Millard 80, Martin Forester 82. organiser both before and during the event, and a spe- forward to seeing you all at our summer competitions. CENTRAL SCOTLAND: 0-9 - W Whitfield, Stirling GC, J cial thanks to his wife who, I understand, did all the typ- Our Spring Tournament was held in glorious weather Ellis, Glenbervie GC, J Duncan, Aberdour GC, T O'Con- ing. As promised, Stefan cut handicaps by 5 for anybody and playing conditions at Worksop GC. We would like nor, Carnoustie Links, res - N Woods, Burntisland GC; who put in a late entry which, as it happened, included to thank Worksop GC for allowing us courtesy of the 10-18 - A Robertson, Grangemouth GC, A Wallace, Dol- two prominent members, namely Messrs Barr and Day, course and making us all very welcome. Also our thanks lar GC, I Jarvis, Alloa GC, A Bange, Carnoustie Links, res so if it can happen to them it can happen to anyone, so go to the steward and his staff for an excellent meal and - J Easton, Stirling GC; 19-28 - A wade, Haggs Caslte, M be warned! service, and to Barry Lax and his staff for providing a Lindsay, Scoonie GC, A Nimmo, Alloa GC, W Easton, The sponsors for the day were John Shaw Machinery course in such excellent condition, even though I heard Stirling GC, res - M Hanlon, Glenbervie GC (morning medal) and Rigby Taylor (afternoon stable- that some Worksop groundstaff members were four- NORTH WALES: 0-9 - Pat Valentine, Ian Buckley, Ian ford) with the medal round going towards qualifying for putting on some greens. I'd also like to thank Barry Farrall, res - Jeremy Hughes, Aled Hughes; 10-18 - Chris the Hayter Challenge. Many thanks to the companies Heaney for organising the whole day and to all the trade Davies, Les Armstrong, Chris Pringle, res - Raul Berten- involved. members who contributed to the prize table. shaw, Andy Davidson; 19-28 - Peter Sproston, Terry The results: medal - 1, Bill Francis; 2, Martin Private; The winners were: 1, Barry Heaney, 38pts; 2, Matin Evans, John Lloyd-Jones, res - Glyn Davies, Eleanor Bar- 3, Duncan Haste; trade/guests - D Bell; stableford - 1, Scothern, 38; 3, Steve Currie 37. low. Chris Reed, 2 Robert Hudson; 3, Peter Ray; trade/guests Finally, I would like to welcome back to our section SOUTH WALES: 0-9: Andrew Jenkins, Robert Johnston, - S Wood Kevin Caples of Crookhill Park GC who has been work- Mike Jones, Vincent Northey, Gerwyn Price; 10-18 - Members of the Sussex branch would like to take this ing out of the area for the last few years. Peter Lacey, Douge Donne, Julian B Jones, David Glad- opportunity to thank Willingdon GC for the courtesy of IAN COLLETT win, Laurence Walter; 19-28 - Ted Thompson, Bob the course, to the catering staff for looking after us so Kitcher, Les Hallett, Dave Williams, Philip Huish. well, and to Peter Negus and his lads for their hard HAYTER QUALIFIERS SOUTH COAST: 0-9 - Brian Newcombe 154, Joe New- work. NORTH EAST: 0-9 - B Wilson, D Cuthbertson, J Hutton, man 147, Paul Fitzjohn 150, Bob Walker 152, Ted West Finally, the next golf function is at Ham Manor on res - C Parkinson; 10-18 - B Udberg, J Johnson, D Street, 152, Gordon Payne 152, Mark Webb 154; 10-18 - Paul July 14. Entry is limited to 50 with priority given to res - S Thompson; 19-28 - T Harrison, J Rippon, M Har- Jackson 138, Shaun White 143, Terry Patchin 148, Nick members, with any remaining spaces allocated to guests vey, res - T Mooney. Weller 150, Andy Hill 151, Phil Wentworth 152, Bob on a first-come, first served basis. So get your entries in SURREY: 0-9 - R Christie, D Langheim, S Haynes, R Cully 159; 19-28 - Steven White 151, Martin Harper fast! Glazier; 10-18 - D Walder, P Careswell, J Rigg, A Locke; 156, ted Archer 153, Robert Crouch 155, Don Friend 19-24 - A Bradshaw, I Smith, M Roberts, P King 156, R Potter 158. MARK WILTON MID ANGLIA: 0-9 - J Moorhouse, R McKeown, D SHEFFIELD: 0-9 - B Heaney, M Scothern, S Currie; 10- Forsyth, res - G Boulton, C Brook; 10-18 - J Elbourn, B 18 - M Coultas, C Hopper, N Maltby; 19-28 - K Caples, C SHEFFIELD Cox, C Toms, res - S Boyes, M Ellis; 19-28 - D Coleman, Duncan, G Brammah. The regional final is at Worsley The last winter lecture of the season was given by D Pemberton, J Blair, res - R Saunders, P Hales. GC on July 20. Supreme Mowing who provided us with a delicious light Shanks Manufacturers of High Quality Mowing Equipment Est. 1878 Mowers DEFINITELY THE BEST GANG EXPERIENCE OUR SERVICE MOWER IN THE WORLD! 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28 GREENKEEPER INTERNATIONAL June 1994 Don't miss the first Southturf - an excellent Wednesday opportunity to see new amenity products and to view the latest machinery being demonstrated. June 29 Naturally you'll be able to meet with fellow professionals, exchange views and get to know Motspur Park more of what's happening in your industry. 10am—5pm We'll see you there! To date, exhibitors include: Pattisson FREE parking, Atterton & Ellis Ltd Premiere Groundcare Avoncrop RPK Baileys of Norfolk Rufford Top-Dress Supplies Ltd catalogue and Better Methods Europe Shanks Mowers Croydon Bowcom Ltd Sovereign Turf entry British Seed Houses Sta-Brite Supplies Ltd CMW Equipment Ltd Standard Golf DW Tomlin Turf Machinery Ltd AA signposted D&E Turf Maintenance Ltd Standard Golf Driving Force Leisure Turf Machinery Ltd Flanderblade Ltd Turf Management Systems Force 3 Leisure Vitax Gem Professional Products Zeneca Professional Products Golf and Turf Equipment Huxleys Education Pavilion Inturf "Turf Clinic" plus JT Parkes Hadlow College Kings Horticulture Plumpton College Leisure K Oaklands College Meetens Industrial Engines Ltd GTC Parker Hart Writtle College Sparsholt College NESCOT At Southturf visitors will be able to enjoy the benefits of an education Companies wishing pavilion including a " turf clinic" where to exhibit can do so from only £75 — but recognised agronomists will be on hand the deadline is June to discuss problems and examine samples 18, so don't leave it too late! FOR MORE DETAILS CALL DAVID WOOD ON 0342 850875 OR LOUISE LUNN ON 0347 838581 m * GREEN • TEE * • BUNKER * DRAINAGE BfciC RECONSTRUCTION LANDSCAPING EQUIPMENT Golf Course and Sportsground Maintenance • Shaping and Seeding Contractor

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Abbey Park GC, Worcs Lambourne GC, Berks Tudor Park GC, Kent Dartmouth GC, Devon Pine Ridge GC, Surrey Breadsall Priory GC, Derbys Mentmore Park GC, Berks Tewkesbury Park GC, Gloucs Eaton Park GC, Cheshire Singing Hills GC, Sussex Bodmin Golf Club, Cornwall Manor of Groves GC, Herts Woburn G and CC, Beds Hintlesham Hall GC, Suffolk St Andrews Eden Course, Fife Chichester G Centre, Sussex Overstone Park GC, Northants Brunston Castle GC, Ayrshire Mapledurham GC, Berks St Andrews Strathyrum, Fife Cannington College, Somerset Portal Estate, Cheshire Barnham Broome GC, Norfolk Mill Ride GC, Bucks West Park GC, Northants Dibden Purlieu GC, Hants Rutland & County GC, Rutland Colne Valley GC, Essex Northampton GC, Northants Weald of Kent GC, Kent Hatfield London GC, Herts Saunton Golf Club, Devon Carden Estates, Cheshire PortlethenGC, Aberdeen AD Contact Tim Banks or Bryan Bosworth, 2 Angel Court, High Street, Market Harborough, Leics LE16 7NL REF 168 Tel: (0858) 464346 • Fax: (0858) 434734 How does an architect go about creating a course, especially in an environmentally sensitive area? Chris Boiling talked to leading golf course designer Donald Steel about the Carnegie course on Peter de Savary's Skibo Castle estate, near Dornoch, Scotland.

ffLJeaven on earth," was ^lhow Andrew Carnegie described Skibo, his Highland castle which is now being turned into a golf and sporting club by Peter de Savary. "Heaven", "Mecca", "paradise" are over-used terms in golf magazines, but the Carnegie course, which is due to open in July, is certainly special. It's the first links course built in Britain in the last 40 years; * 33 In our April issue we reported how the farm and parkland surrounding Ramside Hall Hotel near Durham was being turned into a golf complex with course manager Roger Shaw coordinating the project. Because a greenkeeper Ramside Hall: an update was playing such a pivotal role and because it sounded such an exciting project, we've decided to complexes, seven lakes (ranging tractors for this major scheme and accepted consisted of an follow it all the way through with in size from 500 to almost 8000m which involves the installation of intensive piped drainage system regular updates from now until its sq), and 55 bunkers (greenside over 50,000m of pipework, and that incorporated a network of planned opening in spring '96. and fairway). they have been on site since mid- rigid twinwall pipework between To have got these features 'con- March. Nine fairways have now the lakes. The fairway drainage structed' basically means they are been drained (including bunkers) was typically 60mm laterals at he new 27-hole golf course shaped up and ready for a her- ready for mole-ploughing, so cul- 10m spacings connecting into Tbeing built at Ramside Hall ringbone drainage system to be tivation works have begun over 100mm mains. The lateral spac- Hotel is being built by "the pro- installed prior to placement of the top - two passes of the ings were reduced in areas ject management method". This drainage carpet, blinding layer shakaerator to relieve com- requiring intensification. The pipe is a fancy way of saying that the and rootzone. paction, encourage vertical water depth is another critical factor, developer - Michael Adamson in Once the green has been percolation and aerate the soil, too deep and the cost of stone fill this case - pays for each aspect of approved by the architect, followed by power harrowing and makes the job expensive, too the construction work directly Jonathan Gaunt, the drainage stone picking/burying, where shallow and the effectiveness of instead of paying through the carpet can be spread (between necessary. the drain diminishes as the main contractor. 150mm and 200mm depth, 19- hydraulic conductivity is reduced. But the key to using the project 14mm whinstone aggregate sup- The drain game The final depths depended on the management method successfully plied by Hargreaves) and blinded Robert Donald of MJ Abbott contours of the land but could be is picking the right managers. off with grit (50-75mm depth, 3- explains what he did at Ramside generalised by laterals at 650mm Mr Adamson and course man- 6mm whinstone aggregate, again Hall: and mains at 900mm deep. A ager Roger Shaw, who has been supplied by Hargreaves). Tees "Standing side by side with very suitable carboniferous lime- in charge of this project from day will not be having a drainage car- course manager Roger Shaw and stone quarried locally was used one, have gone for Ian Martin pet but will still have a herring- looking over what was to be the as the permeable backfill and Bob Hornegold, who have bone drainage system and 5th fairway on a cold and horri- medium, 20mm single size to both been working in the indus- 150mm depth of rootzone. bly wet October morning, I first within 150mm of the surface and try for more than 20 years. The drainage of greens and realised the importance that the 5mm grit as a blinding layer. Work started at Ramside Hall tees is carried out by mini- drainage system would play in The installation of the coil in early March and, as we went to trencher and linked into the fair- the success of this venture. The pipework - some 40km! - was press, Ian Martin told us they had way drainage system on the client, whom I had met earlier, facilitated using a 180hp continu- constructed 17 greens, 16 tee approach. MJ Abbott are the con- had given me a verbal brief: ous chain trenching machine, "Robert," he said, "I want the especially equipped for golf water to flee off the land!" Here I courses with low ground pressure was ankle deep in an emulsion of tracks and a spoil conveyor, the QUALITY FIRST clay with the task set to produce digging boom depth is automati- a drainage proposal that suited cally controlled via a series of the needs of the site and that rams responding to a laser grad- inevitably was within the client's ing device which maintains pipe budget. falls regardless of surface undula- Consideration of the soil type tions. The pipe is fed into the indigenous to the area was a key trench as it is excavated and factor in the design of the immediately covered with stone drainage system, the low perme- which is discharged from a gravel ability of the clayey subsoil led to cart running parallel to the Specialists in land drainage, winter waterlogging of the sub- trenching machine. The spoil gen- soil layer and rapid surface run- erated is loaded directly onto a irrigation installations, off during rain. The topsoil, dumper thus preventing topsoil golf course construction and however, was initially good over contamination. most of the site and consequently All the greens, tees and maintenance a great deal of emphasis was put bunkers were connected to the on this fact. There was to be no fairway mains using a mini exca- contamination of the topsoil with vator, this method coping well Complete land drainage service: the clay subsoil. with the inherent mounding asso- Tracked, rubber wheel and pedestrian Another important feature of ciated with such features. Follow- the golf course was the large and ing pipe laying, the area of the continuous chain trenchers; large and frequent areas of water in the fairways were mole ploughed small spinning wheel trenchers form of lakes with occasional prior to final cultivations in order streams between them. Lakes to assist water movement also only look attractive when they through subsoil whilst the pipe are full of water, however these drains were "bedding in". Vertidrainers, sand slitters, sub soilers features were also to supply irri- To close a course for any rea- and mole ploughs gation to greens, tees and son is undesirable, but to close approaches over 27 holes. Careful because of poor drainage is intol- liaison with the course architect, erable as it can lead to huge Jonathan Gaunt, ensured that the losses in revenue. Addressing the M J ABBOTT LIMITED water, once removed from the drainage question in the early Bratch Lane, Dinton, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP3 5EB land, was stored in a manner that stages of planning will reap bene- enhanced the general aspect of fits many years after the initial Tel: 0722 716361 • Fax: 0722 716828 the course. cost of installation has been for- The design finally proposed gotten." 31 it's bounded on three sides by the esturial waters of the Firth and has spectacular views of Struie Hill; eight of the holes lie within the Dornoch Firth Site of Scientific Interest; it's the first course owned by wealthy entrepreneur Peter de Savary; and it's a project that Carnegie himself would have been proud of. Carnegie was a Scot who emi- grated to America with his family when he was 13. There he rose from a bobbin boy in a cotton fac- tory to become a steel magnate, and returned to his homeland as one of the richest and most suc- cessful men of his generation. He bought Skibo (a shortened ver- sion of its Celtic name, Schyther- bolle, which means 'fairyland of peace') in 1898 and spent a for- tune rebuilding it to entertain the likes of King Edward VII, Rud- yard Kipling and Lloyd George. It is believed that the local golf club, Royal Dornoch, invited him to become a member but because he couldn't play he built himself a nine-hole golf course where he could learn the game. He invited five-times Open champion JH Taylor to stay at the castle - and coach him. Carnegie later became vice-president of Royal Dornoch and, today, the impressive-look- ing Carnegie Shield is one of the big competitions on the club's cal- endar.

Peter de Savary is a non-golfer Andrew Carnegie, left, called Skibo 'heaven on earth'. too, but he's not building the new His highland castle is now owned by the de Savary family 18-hole course for himself. He is turning the 7,000 acre estate into a private residential golf and they worked back- of potential importance. They sporting club with an invited wards on the design also struck a deal allowing the international membership of of this course. Once conservationists to come in and about 500. they realised they manage the heathland areas, The Carnegie course at Skibo could get three holes which they hadn't been allowed Castle will be de Savary's first to the west of the to do for the previous 30 years golfing venture. And what a ven- clubhouse, the first and as a consequence some of the ture. The first links course built in hole became obvious. areas of good heathland had Britain since Southerness and the They also knew started to disappear. The conser- restoration of Turnberry after they wanted to use vationists jumped at the chance World War II. It's not long - just some land on the to stop the decline of valuable 6,650 off the championship tees other side of Ferry sites. and 6,400 off the white tees - but Martin Ebert and Tom MacKen- Road because it gave a third view The most sensitive area was the there are many tough and memo- zie, are designing a new course of the Firth and linked the course land south of Ferry Road. Steel rable holes. they walk the new site as many with the beach. Another hole, the wanted to take the course there Despite some of the publicity times as possible. For Tom, who 8th, alongside River Evelix, was to add to the scenic variety, but for the club and boards outside comes from Dornoch, this meant also obvious, according to Steel. also because he needed the proclaiming its "reopening", the driving 11 hours home a few Before they went too far down space. Although the estate is on new course, designed by Donald weeks after starting work at the design road, they employed more than 7,000 acres, the golf Steel, is nothing like the original. Steel's offices near Chichester, an ecologist to plot the areas of course is on a plot of about 120 The only visible evidence of the West Sussex. importance and grade them: acres (200 if you include the original course is a grassy hollow The first two things they have prime importance, importance, areas of scientific interest). near the 12th which was proba- to find out before they start creat- and potential importance, so they Once they had received bly a bunker near the original 9th ing a course are the boundaries knew where they could go and approval in principle from Scot- green. and the site of the clubhouse. where they most certainly tish Natural Heritage, Steel's ecol- When the castle was put on the With the Carnegie course they couldn't go. They also started ogist had to do a detailed market in 1989, Steel was com- also had to plot the areas of sci- consultations with Scottish Natu- environmental appraisal showing missioned to provide a golf entific interest. ral Heritage and began communi- why the site was valuable, what course as a selling feature. When The site of an old steading was cating with planners, ecologists, plants were there, what effect the de Savary bought Skibo in 1990 to be used to build the new club- environmentalists etc. work would have on them and he saw Steel's name on the plans house. Standing there, Steel They told them they wouldn't how the course would be built - and asked him to design a course envisaged a spectacular final go into any areas of importance hole by hole with particular for him. hole, a par 5 dogleg with a drive or prime importance and they attention to holes in SI territory. When Steel and his assistants, across a bay. So, to some extent, would do their best to avoid areas He also had to say how * 35 GOLF MAINTENANCE LIMITED (a member of the golf leisure group) 0277 373720 The Golf Course Maintenance People Free Colour Brochure Supplied on Request

founder member British Association of Golf Course Constructors AD REF 440 33 these holes would be man- aged - what fertiliser would be used, how it would be applied, and what the irrigation regime would be. This is important because the lichens in these areas are very sensitive: "One applica- tion of fertiliser and they're gone, and they've been there since the Ice Age," said Tom. Fortunately, Steel had been involved in the rebuilding of some new greens at Royal Dornoch, so they were able to take SNH there to show them how it's possible to work in very tight areas, without damaging heather and gorse bushes around the backs of greens. The new plan for the Carnegie course showed it would only go into SI areas with the first green, second tee, fourth and fifth holes, and sixth tee. So with the 18th, 17th, 16th, 1st, two holes near the beach and a hole near the river in mind, the rest fell into place. Steel doesn't believe a good course has to be over 7,000 Looking back from the 5th green. The SI area on the right is marked as GUR but requires a compulsory drop yards. "You pick nice tee and green positions and whatever long enough for the majority of ting off the right amount of dog- desired because of all the plan- they measure, they measure and golfers. And the penalties for leg is rewarded with a much eas- ning involved. Most of the fair- whatever they add up to, they missing the fairway on a number ier line to the green. ways, greens and tees were add up to. The belief that unless of holes are quite grave." turfed because of the difficulties it's 7,000 yards it's no good is a With this par 71 (70 off the Mainly turfed of getting seed established in load of poppycock. championship tees) course, Steel Work started late August/ light sandy soil on a windy site. "Carnegie is not long, but it's wants to make golfers think. Cut- September 1992, later than Lindum supplied and laid * 37

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AD Registered for BS 5750 REF Quality Assurance 31 35 »* the turf. David Stansfield was employed as the agronomist and Brian D Pierson Ltd as the constructors. Alick Mackay and his team of six greenkeepers and a YTS lad built the bunkers, although by modern standards there are very few bunkers on this course - "it's difficult enough without them," says Steel, "and they require a lot of maintenance and upkeep." He added: "Setting up the impossible is the easiest thing in the world, but that's not the right way of going about things, you want to present a challenge which is achievable if people play well enough."

Holes which caught our eye include: • The short 3rd, which is played from the top of one dune across a hollow to a green set on top of another dune. Anything to the right rolls down a steep drop, Donald Steel was a golf writer before he became plays off 6, is best known for his work at St leaving the player with an awk- a designer. A scratch golfer, he joined the Sunday Andrews, where he redesigned the Jubilee and ward pitch back to the green. The Telegraph after leaving Cambridge University. Five Eden courses and designed the Strathtyrum left side is guarded by rough. years into his 30-year stint there, Ken Cotton invited course. Other courses of his which have received • The fourth and fifth holes with him down to see his new courses at St Pierre and widespread acclaim are Mill Ride and Portal in the their panoramic views over the Ross-on-Wye, among the first courses to be built in UK and Vila Sol in Portugal. Firth to the bridge and the hill all Britain after World War II. After that they kept in touch. His assistants, Tom MacKenzie and Martin Ebert around. The fifth fairway is When a new wave of courses was built in the 60s, (pictured above with Donald - Tom is on the left), flanked by the beach and sea one Donald was asked if wanted to help out. He did, are also university graduates and low-handicap side and heathland the other. and eventually he became a partner in the firm of golfers. Tom has a degree in landscape architec- • The 8th is a long dogleg to the Cotton, Pennick, Lawrie and Partners. In 1987 he ture and plays off 5; Martin graduated in engineer- right, lined along the right by started his own firm and in 1989 he left the Tele- ing and plays off 4. Loch Evelix. The more of the dog- graph, although he still con- leg you cut-off by driving across tributes articles (including a new the loch, the more straightfor- series on his 18 favourite holes) ROLLER MOWER ward is the second shot. and has written several books. • There are no bunkers on the Over the last five years he has BEATS THE GANG par 3 15th, just a steep drop into built about 60 courses in 15 the water. countries. One of the courses he • The 18th is one of the most is most proud of is Redtail in dramatic finishing holes on any Ontario, Canada. Built for just course. A long par 5, it sweeps over £1 million it has been voted left around the bay from tees set the second best course in on a spit of land with water on Canada one year after opening. three sides. From most tees, the And Canadian journalist Lome player must choose how much of Rubenstein has said: "Develop- the bay to carry and the boldness ers should ask English architect of the drive will determine how Donald Steel to work in Canada to play the second shot. Big hit- more often. This is the only ters may try to reach the green in course he's designed in Canada. two shots but most will play into It's a peach." He believes it the broad approach and pitch to could become Canada's Pine the large green from there. Apart Valley. THE MAJOR from the bay, the worst thing In this country Steel, who now about this hole is the fact that GROUNDSMAN you know everyone in the club- house bar will be watching your ROLLERMOWERS progress to the green as the bar FORCE TO BE overlooks the entire hole. RECKONED WITH • No V-belts - fully gear driven • Ideal for parks, amenity areas, If the club is as successful as de Course manager Alick through shock absorbing golf courses, playing pitches and Savary's other clubs, like St Mackay, 39, reckons his couplings sports grounds James's in London, when it opens greenkeeping staff form the • Opposite rotating blade • Various sizes available a few months after the course, best golfing team in the eliminates any windrowing and • Patented easy skid adjustment then a 'parkland' course may also country. Five of the seven evenly spreads cutting • 3" blade overlap be built. staff play off single figures! • Cutting heights from 1/2"-4" • Full width rollers front & rear

CONSTRUCTION The bases of the greens and tees were shaped from local material The growing medium is a 70%-30% sand to fen soil mix. On the greens it is 250-300mm deep and on the tees it's about 150mm deep. The greens, sur- MAJOR EQUIPMENT LTD., AD Units 8/9 Calder Trading Estate,Leeds Rd, Bradley, Huddersfield, HD5 0RX rounds, approaches, tees and their surrounds are turfed with a REF Tel: (0484) 450411, Fax: (0484) 450412 Festuca/Agrostis grass mix. 419 The Greenkeepers Training Committee (GTC) are continually reviewing the approved to re-think their training policies and the GTC will be issuing guidelines for the golf status of colleges offering greenkeeper training courses. greenkeeping industry as to which colleges employers and their staff should be sup- The directory shows colleges offering courses to craft, supervisory and management porting. levels, but it must be stated that until the GTC review is completed only the green Until the report is complete, anyone with a query regarding greenkeeper training coded colleges are approved to train greenkeepers beyond craft level. should contact the Greenkeepers Training Committee at Aldwark Manor, Aldwark, The introduction of vocational qualifications into industries, has caused the colleges Alne, York Y06 2NF, telephone 0347 838640.

ASKHAM BRYAN COLLEGE Askham Bryan, York Y02 3PR. Contact Christine Biglin, registrar. Tel: 0904 702121. Full time courses: National Certificate - Horticulture; National Diploma - Amenity Horticulture; Higher National Diploma - Horticulture (golf management options). Part time courses: NVQ Level 2, City & Guilds Phase III and IV Greenkeeping.

HOUGH ALL COLLEGE Durham College of Agriculture and Horticulture, Houghall, Durham DH1 3SG. Contact Tony Milan. Tel: 091 386 1351. Full time courses: National Certificate in Horticulture/Greenkeeping and Groundsmanship - 1 Year; National Diploma in Horticulture Turf Option - 2/3 years. Part time courses: Greenkeeping and Sportsturf Management Level II - Day Release; C&G Phase III Enterprise Management - Afternoon Evening. Short Courses: Health & Safety Legislation; Turfcare; Machinery and Mechanisation. All courses contribute towards NVQ Levels I and II.

KIRKLEY HALL COLLEGE Ponteland, Northumberland NE20 0AQ. Contact Dr Ron McParlin. Tel: 0661 860808. NVQ Level II with greenkeeping option. Day release or block release - one to two years.

MYERSCOUGH COLLEGE Myerscough Hall, Bilsborrow, Preston, Lancashire PR3 0RY. Contact Martyn Jones. Tel: 0995 640611. Fulltime courses: National Certificate in Groundsmanship and Greenkeeping - 1 Year; BTEC National Diploma in Turf Science and Sportsground Management - 3 Years; BTEC Higher National Diploma in Turf Science and Technology - 3 Years (Both these courses include one year's paid industrial experience). Part time courses: NVQ Level II Greenkeeping; Phase III Supervisory Management; Phase IV Business Management; Certificate and Diploma in Turf Irrigation (in conjunction with BTLIA).

REASEHEATH COLLEGE Nantwich, Cheshire CW5 6DF. Contact Dennis Mortram. Tel: 0270 625131 Fax: 0270 625665. Fulltime.-btecFirst Diploma Horticulture (Sportsturf Option) - 1 year. BTEC National Diploma Horticulture (Sportsturf Option) - 2 years. BTEC Higher National Diploma GolfCourse Management - 3 years. Part time: NVQ Level 1 Greenkeeping - Day Release. NVQ Level 2 Greenkeeping - Day/Block Release. NVQ Level 3 Greenkeeping - Day/Block Release. C&G Phase IV Greenkeeping - Block Release. IoG National Intermediate Diploma in Turf Culture - Day Release. loG National Diploma - Day Release. Short Courses: FEPA Chemical Safety; Safe Lifting; Chainsaws; Off-Road Vehicle Driving; First Aid.

BROOKSBY COLLEGE Brooksby, Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire LE14 2U. Contact Paul Greene. Tel: 0664 434291. Full time courses: National Certificate in Horticulture, Greenkeeping and Sportsturf Management. Part time courses: Day Release training to NVQ Level II in Amenity Horticulture - Greenkeeping option. The course is based around the GTC Training Manual. Short courses also available in Horticultural Machinery and Arboriculture.

BROOMFIELD COLLEGE Morley, Ilkeston, Derby DE7 6DN. Contact Admissions Officer. Tel: 0332 831345. NVQ Level I and Level II Amenity Horticulture (Greenkeeping) Block Release course. Two years duration presented in 12 one-week blocks following guidelines of GTC Training Manual. NVQ Level III available from September 1994.

CAMBRIDGESHIRE COLLEGE Milton Centre, Landbeach Road, Milton, Cambridgeshire CB4 6DB. Contact David Haigh. Tel: 0223 860701. Part time - Day Release over two years leading to NVQ Level II (Greenkeeping Options), including the GTC Training Manual requirements. Autumn term commences September/October 1994.

LINCOLNSHIRE COLLEGE Lincolnshire College of Agriculture, Caythorpe Court, Caythorpe, Grantham, Lines. Contact Neil Rowbottom at Student Services. Tel: 0400 72521. Day Release NVQ Level II. NCH with Greenkeeping pending approval. National Diploma in Horticulture with Greenkeeping and Turf Management options, pending approval.

MOULTON COLLEGE Moulton, Northampton NN3 1RR. Contact Stuart Phillips. Tel: 0604 491131. Full time courses: BTEC National Diploma in Horticul- ture 2 Years; BTEC First Diploma in Horticulture with Turfcare Option, 1 year; BTEC First Diploma in Business and Finance with Horticulture Option, 1 year. Part time courses: NVQ Level II Amenity Hor- ticulture (Options include Turfculture (including GTC requirements), Hard landscaping, Interior landscaping and Arboriculture) - Day Release or Block Release; NVQ Level II Turfculture - Day Release. Short courses: Safe Lifting and Handling, Chain Saw Operation and Maintenance, Off-Road Vehicle Driving. F.E.P.A.

STAFFORDSHIRE COLLEGE Rodbaston, Penkridge, Stafford ST19 5HG. Contact Nigel Foskett. Tel: 0785 712209. Courses offered: Craft Level NVQ Level I, II and III. Day Release. Duration: Over two years, each of weeks duration (September - June). Registration Date: Please contact the College.

WARWICKSHIRE COLLEGE Moreton Morrell, Warwick CV35 9BL. Contact Chris Gray. Tel: 0926 651367. Pan time courses: NVQ LI - Greenkeeping - Day Release; NVQ L2 Greenkeeping - Day or Block Release; NVQ L3 Greenkeeping - Day or Block Release; C&G Phase 3 Year 4 - Greenkeeping Management - Day Release; IoG National Intermediate Diploma in Turf Culture (proposed). Full time course - 2 year BTEC National Diploma in Horticulture with an option in Turf Culture. Professional updating courses include: Groundsmanship, Machinery Maintenance and Repair, Managing Conservation Areas, Plant Identification, Hedgelaying, First Aid, FEPA Spraying Courses, Chainsaw Courses.

BRINSBURY COLLEGE North Heath, Pulborough, West Sussex RH20 1DL. Contact Keith Harrison. Tel: 0798 873832. Fulltime courses: New Entrant to Greenkeeping Course - 36 weeks. NVQ II Greenkeeping option plus core. Approximately a third of the course is delivered on college's and local golf course. Part time: Day Release to NVQ II level. Both full time and part time students with work both to the NVQ II work book and the Greenkeeper manual. NVQ Level II (National Technical Certificate) with Inst, of Groundsmanship manual may be delivered as an evening course. At present Phase III is offered in Greenkeeping Supervision and Enterprise Management. As this qualification is phased out, NVQ III and IV will be offered. ND Landscape Studies (Option - Sportsturf Management). New courses and qualifications: National Technical Certificate (IoG), National Practical Certificate (IoG), Intermediate Diploma (IoG), National Diploma (IoG)

HADLOW COLLEGE Hadlow College of Agriculture and Horticulture, Hadlow, Tonbridge, Kent TN11 0AL. Contact Keith Backhouse. Tel: 0732 850551. NVQ Level II Part-time Day Release over two years with two periods of Block Release. Level II in Amenity and Groundsmanship Courses with Day Release. Centres at Hadlow, Canterbury and Maidstone.

MERRIST WOOD COLLEGE Worplesdon, Guildford, Surrey GU3 3PE. Contact the Academic Registrar. Tel: 0483 232424. NVQ Levels I, II and III Amenity Horticulture, Greenkeeping and Sports Turf Specialism. Part time... one day per week for 35 weeks commencing in September.

NESCOT North East Surrey College of Technology, Reigate Road, Ewell, Epsom, Surrey KT17 3DS. Contact Dr S Shaw. Tel: 081 394 ; 3099/3111. NVQ Levels I, II and III in Amenity Horticulture (Greenkeeping options) Training and assessment for the Greenkeepers Training " Manual. Part time, Day Release. Duration: Two years to Level II. FEPA Spraying Courses. ER TIfMNING E COURSES AVAILABLE

KEY TO COLOURS Please note that all college details on these pages were provided by the colleges themselves. Currently GTC approved as Regional Training Greenkeeper International takes no responsibil- Currently GTC approved Centres, offering ity for accuracy of information provided. for training courses up Pending GTC approval courses at Craft, for all courses Supervisory and to Craft level only Contact the colleges direct for prospectuses and International Management levels comprehensive information.

OAKLANDS COLLEGE Oaklands Campus, Hatfield Road, St Albans, Herts AL4 OJA. Contact Ian Merrick. Tel: 0727850651 Sports Turf Management: Two year part time, one day per week. Level II Year One leading to NVQ Level II. Level II Year Two leading to City & Guilds 022-4. Greenkeeping and Sports Turf Man.igrment or NVQ Level II/III. Amenity Horticulture and Greenkeeping Business Management: Part time, one day per week. National Certificate in Greenkeeping and Sportsturf Management One year full time. All courses commence September 1994.

OTLEY COLLEGE Otley College, Otley, Ipswich, Suffolk IP6 9EY. Contact Student Applications. Tel: 0473 785543. Full time courses BTEC National Diploma - Sports Turf Management. National Certifícate in Horticulture, option in Sports Turf Technology. Part time NVQ 2 Golf Greenkeeping and NVQ 2 Groundsmanship, NVQ 3 Sports Turf Management. IoG Intermediate and Final Diplomas (Evenings). NVQ Horticultural Mechanics. FEPA Courses PAI, PA2, PA6

PLUMPTON COLLEGE Lewes, East Sussex BN7 3AE. Contact David Blackmur. Tel: 0273 890454. Fuji time courses: BTEC Pint Diploma (Green keeping Option). Part time courses: NVQ Level II - Amenity Horticulture Greenkeeping Sportsturf and Sportsground Maintenance Block and Day Release; City 8c Guilds Phase III - Enterprise Management, Greenkeepers Supervision - Block and Day Release; City & Guilds Phase IV - Business Management - Day Release. NCH Full time with a greenkeeping bias. (Subject to approval).

WHITTLE COLLEGE Chelmsford, Essex CM 1 3RR. Contact Dai Edwards. Tel: 0245 420705. City* Guilds Golf Greenkeeping and Sp ment (Day Release); NVQ Level II Greenkeeping, Sports Turf, Sports Ground maintenance to include BIGGA Manual (Day Release); Courses leading to NVQ III and IV available (GTC Manual); a Golf Course Management option is also included in full time three year HND landscape and Amenity Management Course. Courses for next academic year commence 4 October 1994.

CANNINGTON COLLEGE Cannington Bridwater, Somerset TA5 2LS. Contact Nick Rigden. I rl: 0278 652226. BTEC First Diploma. BTEC National Diploma in Sportsturf and Golf Course Management. BTEC Higher National Diploma Golf Course Management (inc. European Studies). NVQ Level 1 and 2 Golf Greenkeeping. NVQ Level 3 Greenkeeping and Supervisory Management. NVQ Level 4 Greenkeeping Management. FEPA Training, Chainsaw Certification, Off Road Vehicle Certification, Golf Course Engineers Course.

HARTPURY COLLEGE Hartpury House, Nr Gloucester GL19 3BE. Contact D. Kirkham. Tel: 0452 700283. Fax: 0452 700629. Courses: NVQ Level II and III in Amenity Horticulture, NVQ Level III Greenkeeping and Sportsturf Management, 1st Dipl Horticulture, NC Horticulture (Amenity & Decorative) Dipl Supervisory Management, ND Horticulture (Amenity & Decorative), HND Land Use (Amenity Horticulture), HND Land Use (Greenkeeping & Sportsturf Management)

SPARSHOLT COLLEGE Sparsholt College Hampshire, Sparsholt, Winchester, Hants S021 2NK Contact Bob Young. I'd: 0962 776441. NVQ Level 2 Greenkeeping Practice, NVQ Level 3 Greenkeeping Supervision, City & Guilds Phase III Enterprise Management (last year to be offered), City & Guilds Phase IV Management Studies, GTC: Greenkeeping Certificate, GTC: Certificate in Golf Course Supervision, FIPA: Short Courses, Chainsaw: Short Courses. All courses, other than Phase IV, are offered on Block release. Full residential facilities available.

DUNDEE COLLEGE Old Glamis Road, Dundee DD3 8LE. Contact Graham Carr. Tel: 0382 819021. l ax: 0382 858117. (ouises Units at Level I and II linked with GTC Training Manual; SCOTVEC National Certificate Modules for Greenkeeping; SCOTVEC HNC Units in Horticulture; SCOTVEC HNC Units on Golf Course Management (available as Distance Learning/Flexible Learning from October 1994). Duration of courses 36 weeks from September/October each year. Attendance full-time, block release and day release. Short courses including "Use of Pesticides" available on demand. Registration June and August.

ELMWOOD COLLEGE Cupar, Fife KYI5 4JB. Contact Carol Borthwick. Tel: 0334 52781. Fax: 0334 56795. < raft Li full-time, following SVQ Level II annd tth" e GTC Training Manual. Six week specialist modular programme (January February), including Golf Course Construction. Pesticide Application and Plant Protection Procedures. Distance Learning supervisory course, with one week in College. 1 INC in Golf Course Management: available as full time, day-release and distance learning, leading to final part of HND in Golf Course Management from September 1994. FEPA, COSHH and Health and Safety short courses.

KYLE AND CARRICK DISTICT COUNCIL Burns House, Burns Statue Square, Ayr KA7 1UT. Contact J Dudgeon. Tel: 0292 281511. SCOTVEC National Certificate in Greenkeeping - Day Release up to three years. Students can enrol at any time.

LANGSIDE COLLEGE GLASGOW Langside College Glasgow School of Horticulture, Woodburn House, Buchanan Drive, RutheiglenG73 3PF. Contact Colin S Urquhart. Tel: 041 647 6300. SCOTVEC National Certificate - 3 years day release or 1 year full time. Higher National Certificate in Golf Course Management - 2 years day release. SVQ Level II Amenity Horticulture with Greenkeeping options plus a range of NC and HNC Horticulture programmes including G SVQ Level III. Short courses on a range of subjects including Tractor Operations and the Safe Use of Pesticides can be negotiated.

OATRIDGE COLLEGE Ecclesmachan, Broxburn, West Lothian EH52 6NH. Contact Steve Miller. Tel: 0506 854387. Full and part Higher National Certificate in Golf Course Management; National Certificate in Greenkeeping; National Certificate Modular and Scottish Vocational Qualification Level I and II. National Certificate in Hort. Machinery. Short specialist courses - including safe use of chemicals, operation of greenkeeping machinery.

GREENMOUNT COLLEGE Greenmount College of Agriculture and Horticulture, Antrim, BT41 4PU. Contact Geoff Jenkins. Tel: 0849 462114. Day Release course in Greenkeeping and Sports Turf Management. Two year course leading to NVQ - and a Certificate in Greenkeeping for those completing additional working practices/tasks as specified by the Greenkeepers Training Manual. Course runs from September-May.

TEAGASC COLLEGE Teagasc College of Amenity Horticulture, National Botanic Gardens, Glasnevm, Dublin 9. Contact Pat Suttle. Tel: 0103531 371 636. Phase II Greenkeeping - Block Release two weeks, three times per year. Phase III Greenkeeping - Block Release, one week, three times per year.

PENCOED COLLEGE Pencoed, Mid Glamorgan CF35 5LG. Contact Peter Gillard or Richard Browning. Tel: 0656 860202. Day Release courses in Greenkeeping and Sports Turf at Introductory, Technician, Supervisory and Management Levels, incorporating the Training Manual of the Greenkeepers Training Committee.

WELSH COLLEGE Welsh College of Horticulture, Northrop, Mold, Clywyd CH7 6AA. Contact GM Wright. Tel: 0352 840 861. Pax: 0352 840 731. Full time courses: ND - Golf Course Construction Option - equivalent to NVQ Level III. NEBSM - equivalent to NVQ I^vel DL BTF.C First in l.andbase Golf Greenkeeping NVQ Level II. Part time course: Phase 3 Greenkeeping Management - equivalent to NVQ Level III. NVQ Level IV from Autumn 1993 (if available). NVQ l*vel I and II Greenkeeping. Short courses: Pesticide PA1, PA2, PA6,1-3 day courses (training and testing); COSHH Assessments; Safe lifting and carrying; PICKUP courses. ...And not a drop to

Cedric Johns explores the sometimes days. The increasing numbers of feature lakes Based on the broad principle that only win- murky depths of golf course lakes and and off-course reservoirs appearing on our ter water, abstracted between October and ponds golf courses form the basis for hazards of March, is utilised, man-made feature lakes another type: natural pollution. Greenkeepers and off-course reservoirs are today's answer to beware...! the problem of sourcing enough water for Modern day golf course architects - especially The relatively new concept of digging holes months of high-season irrigation. A classic our cousins from over the Atlantic - love water, in the ground for in or out-of-play water stor- example of this trend is the total water man- it seems. Give 'em half a chance and they'll come age purposes is linked directly with the use of agement scheme implemented at The Belfry a up with at least one spectacular hole designed irrigation systems. couple of years ago. Then, a lake, capable of to force players into making choices. A safety Why? Because legislation imposed by the holding ten million gallons of water - 40 mil- shot for the timid; an arm chancing drive for the National Rivers Authority (NRA) insists that lion litres for the benefit of thrusting young bold, tempting them to smash the ball beyond abstraction licences are largely conditional on 'keepers clutching HNC's - was constructed the watery clutches of an in-play lake. And, as the system's design being self-sufficient in behind the Derby course. we so often see, beyond the back of the green terms of water consumed. This is particularly Filled and subsequently topped-up from a as well... true of golf courses located in the south and nearby stream, the lake actually fulfils two Water hazards can intimidate club golfers south-east of the country, where water is most roles - as course manager Derek Ganning and hardened pros alike. Just think back to often at a premium in the summer months. explained when I visited him prior to the '93 that menacing 15th which featured so dramat- This is the reason why we see so many Ryder Cup. ically in last month's US Masters, staged at the developers and golf clubs - never mind archi- Not only does this vast tract of water feed 'garden course', Augusta National. tects - investing in the construction of in- irrigation systems watering both the Brabazon Apart from Olazabal, whose 30-foot, final ground storage facilities. and Derby courses, it is also used to overcome day putt killed-off the opposition - at the 15th By comparison, the more conventional, evaporation losses by maintaining levels of the - and ultimately secured that prized green above-ground storage tanks - usually used as in- play lakes dotted around the championship jacket, most of his rivals were in big trouble. overnight holding points - are fast going out course. How many shots did Payne Stewart drop of fashion. They are simply not large enough On the club circuit, the lake featuring an attempting to clear those limped waters...? to hold the vast volumes of water involved. island green built during the reconstruction of But it is not only the players who have to be Even built in multiples, the cost of a number the Barton-on-Sea course, featured on these aware of the dangers of still waters these of tanks would far outstrip that of a reservoir. pages (April issue) was designed to provide lieeper I Simple well proven design, easy to r use, excellent value for money - 4 rows of hard wearing polypropylene bristles lift leaves, grass clippings and litter effortlessly into high-capacity hopper. Fully floating linkage enables brush to sweep cleanly on undulating golf course fairways. Simple manual trip facility for easy dumping of debris. Optional scarifying rotor and gulley brush attachments available.

WESSESend for details - no stamp required X WESSEX FARM MACHINERY SALES CO. FREEPOST BZ221 AD BORDON • HANTS • GU35 9HH REF Universal joint detail Brush detail 0420478111 210 drink similar benefits, albeit on a smaller scale. So, having dug a hole and filled it, what next? A very good question. Life being what it is, the answer to one problem quite often begets another. Right! All that water adds yet another demand to the day-to-day business of golf course management... That demand comes in the guise of water management - the important task of ensuring that the quality of water stored in-ground does not deteriorate to the point where it can represent a distinct environmental hazard. Reservoirs and lakes are, after all, living ecological systems in which the control of algae and weed is an important factor in maintaining a natural balance between what is good and that which can be harmful - to man, wildlife and turf, As a simple example, think of algae 'bloom'. That thick green stuff which covers the surface of many a village pond. Viewed from a dis- tance, some may feel that it looks attractive but the truth is that its very existence causes trouble down below. By preventing natural light from penetrating into the depths of the water, algae deprives other oxygen giving plants from thriving deeper down. Since plantlife is an essential and natural method of releasing life-providing oxygen into the water the lack of light begins a process which, if left unchecked, will upset the bal- ance of nature. As oxygen levels fall, the 'bloom' dies off Fountains like this - and much larger models - help water to circulate and provide additional oxygen and sinks to the bottom of the pond. More oxygen is needed to combat the effects of posing of the water and dredging the gluti- gases, chlorine hydrogen sulphide and other decomposing plantlife yet, in reality, the nous mess off the bottom and carting it away. bacteria at the rate of 150 gallons per minute. reverse is happening. Allowed to develop fur- Phew! In essence, all these systems work on the ther, the water becomes anaerobic - deprived Latterly, chemicals have been used to con- basis that air pumped into a reservoir or lake of oxygen. At this stage all natural life in the trol the imbalance created by neglected water. assists the natural aquatic rejuvenation pro- water including fish is seriously at risk. So too Repetitively expensive, time and labour con- cesses by increasing dissolved oxygen levels, is the quality of water intended for irrigation suming, this method has obvious limitations. providing much needed circulation and main- purposes. Today's answer? Aeration, the method of taining aerobic conditions. As anaerobic bacteria begins to thrive on adding oxygen - and movement - into the What does that mean? Simply this; aerated waste materials - dying plants, fish and even water, a natural process aided by man-made water gives you the means whereby irrigation grass cuttings blown into the water from equipment which helps rid reservoirs and can be carried out without the fear of bacteria nearby fairways or greens are digested anaer- lakes of the pernicious effects of algae, plant and the like affecting the quality of your obically rather than by natural means. (Fer- death, suffocating sludge and anaerobic bacte- prized turf, the balance of nature can be main- tiliser entering the water through run-off ria, automatically. tained in and around the water and irate tele- doesn't help either). Aeration, in the form of high-profile foun- phone calls from the secretary's office, You'll soon know when this stage has been tains, like those at The Belfry, represent one complaining about 'that smell' will never reached because noxious odours are released answer to the business of water management. reach your ears. as a by-product. Yes, the water on your course Used as a visual feature in ornamental and in- Postscript: As this article was going to press smells! play lakes, the effect of a single fountain is the Daily Telegraph published a story featur- Apart from the obvious; murky water clog- helpful but conditional on the volume of ing scuba diver, 23-year-old Emma Elliott- ging filters, valves and sprinklers, the bacteria water it is attempting to re-cycle. Pyle, who has obtained a contract (with a present in the water also threatens both soil The larger the lake, the more fountains are dozen golf clubs) to retrieve balls from in-play and turf. required to handle the sheer expanse of water lakes. Commenting on her task, Emma was Algae present in the water will build-up on involved effectively. quoted as saying; "The lakes are usually pretty soil surfaces to create a perched water table. Parallel to introduction of fountains, float- disgusting. I have to shut my eyes and feel Anaerobic bacteria can, as at least one well- ing and submersible aspirating and diffused about in the dark." Enough said. known head greenkeeper in this country will air systems have been developed to increase • Details of Otterbine fountains are available testify, play havoc with fine turf... the below-surface movement of water and add from Golf Course Services; 0858 463153. In days of yore, many a lake or pond was high levels of oxygen on a continuous basis. Readers wishing to learn more about AquaS- left to its own devices until the stinking, slimy Where a breakdown in the quality of water cape fountains, aspirating aerators and air contents forced those responsible to take has already taken place, air stripping systems stripping systems should call TIL Irrigation action. Then, it was mostly a question of dis- provide an efficient method of dissolving Limited; 0425 476162. The most cost-effective way of reaching readers of Greenkeeper International. Simply ring Bill Lynch on 091 413 7218, Carol Dutton or Louise Lunn on 0347 838581 and ask about an alphabetical category listing: the cost ers' Guide starts from the equivalent of under £25 per month.

UNIT 25, COWLING MILL Aerators COWLING BROW CHORLEY YOU'RE ONTO A WINNER WITH LANCASHIRE PR6 0QG Tel: 0257 269983/269069 AERATORS GREENKEEPER INTERNATIONAL Fax: 0257 261064 Problems with dirty water or algae bloom? Let Otterbine clean-up your lakes and ponds. • VERDE TEE FRAME The world leader in water quality Steel platform, woven grass top. management Available from leading irrigation • VERDE WINTER TEE companies. Full details from: Generous size, self-install kit. t VERDE DRIVING MATS Çofy Coutse Services Top quality - Long Life - Best Prices. £50 notes - • ARTIFICIAL GRASSES 6 Stuart Road, Market Harborough LE 16 9PQ • DRIVING BAYS AND NETS Tel: 0858 463153 • Fax: 0858 410085 For club and home use. TWENTY YEARS EXPERIENCE SUPPLYING THE BEST SURFACES AT COMPETITIVE PRICES. Please call for samples & information Agronomy HERE WE GO with another chance to WIN £50 with Greenkeeper International! Bacteria PSD AGRONOMY LTD All you have to do is take a look at the £50 note symbol above. Now A COMPLETE AGRONOMIC CONSULTANCY SERVICE FOR THE GOLF CLUB look through the ads in the Buyers' Guide section and spot THREE of and GREENKEEPER them - they've been reduced in size, but they're there, somewhere! GREEN CIRCLE • Contract Management of Extensions and New Courses Write down the names of the three ads where the £50 notes are • Site Management and Problem The biological way to: Diagnosis on Existing Courses located and send your entries on a postcard to: Note the Notes / Degrade Thatch • Technical Advice and Support Competition, BIGGA, Aldwark Manor, Aldwark, Alne, York, North / Increase Root Depth ail year round Yorkshire Y06 2NF, to be received by first post Friday, June 24, • Soil and Turf Analysis / Promote Fine Grasses For further information contact: 1994. The first correct entry drawn after that date will win £50. / Reduce Fertiliser Needs David Stansfield or John Hacker It could be YOU! Enter today - and Note the Notes! • Combat Disease 42 Garstang Road, Preston PR1 1NA Tel: (0772) 884450 Fax: 884445 Judges' decision is final. Not open to BIGGA staff. Tel: England/Wales: 081 669 0011 Scotland 0764 683250 Ireland 045 61389 All Weather Walkways Peter Creary, course manager at Hatfield Bark London Country Club, Essendon, ALL WEATHER Hertfordshire, was the winner of our May WALKWAYS competition. A few minutes searching through PATHFORM Limit turf damage with a natural woodfibre walkway. these pages paid off for him - Will YOU be next Hardwood • Free draining month's winner? ^W, Chips • Soft and quiet tread • Engineered particle size ^rfcWsRing for samples • Blends into the landscape and colour brochure • Expert construction advice Dormit Arboriculture Artificial Grass Iver, Bucks, SL0 9LA For further information please call us on TEETECTOR TEE MATS Tel 0753 652022 Cirencester (0285) 860781/2 Tree Spade Hire The mat with the guarantee Fax 0753 653007 Semi Mature Unique heavy duty golf range and ç^ ^ Trees supplied municipal mats. 25mm hand finished woven pile. M & B SUPPLIES Animal Repellents JSCS • Mulches 20mm shock pad. •ft^asg*" < * supplied Professional galvanised and Ring for colour painted frame. Any size, Walkway Chips, brochures any shape. Double sided. Softwood Bark - All Grades, ^AIRWAYS Free Demo unit available. Fertilizers, Composts, Peat, DISCREET CONTROL Iver, Bucks, SL0 9LA Trade welcome. Putting surface. Horticultural Sundries Contact: CONSULTANCY Tel 0753 652022 Baths Road, Longton, ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICE & TRAINING Evergreens Fax 0753 653007 Stoke-on-Trent /PaJJ/fr

Chemical Disposal Speak to Golf Course Supplies Lionel Whitnell CHEMICAL & EMPTY CONTAINER DISPOSAL A PROBLEM? ENVIROGREEN offer a Specialist Pesticide Disposal Service for both full EAGLES, BIRDIES, and empty Container disposal Marti( nJ Also Record Books, Signs, Chemical CJ. Collins FALD0S — -BW)tke»s & Fuel Stores and Protective Clothing Contact: Construction Tacit's upright flagpoles ENVIROGREEN Limited could have the same effect TOP QUALITY, The Maxwell Hart Building, Golf Course Contractors 612 Reading Road, Winnersh, with your members. TOP SERVICE Wokingham, Berkshire RG11 5HF. TACIT-Suppliers of Registration No: BRL/05342 Holecups, Flagpoles and Distributors of Tel: 0345 125398 equipment for Specialists in complete European Ryder Cup 1993 Cheshire Quality Construction construction, or green, The Belfry. Top Dressings, tee, bunker and Root Zones and IAN MARTIN "TACIT Tee Mixture and drainage refurbishments Manufacturers of quality BOB HORNEGOLD Golf Course Accessories MoneyStone Specialists in Project Tel: 0788 568818 Bunker Sand Management, Golf Course Burgess HflL West Sussex \Fax: 0788 537485^ Britain's best, Construction, Renovation, Tel: 0444 242993 head and Finishing and Maintenance shoulders above Contracts Fax: 0444 247318 Drainage Tel: (0277) 810616 the rest or (0425)655586 Consultancy SLEATH & SON Par-Link Red SPORTSTURF DRAINAGE Pathway Gravel David Hemstock Full range of modern equipment providing G • 0 • L • F Associates UK and European service ideal link from Contact Geoff Sleath 4 LANDSCAPES Consultants on: Green to Tee, Tel: (0709) 862109 Fax: (0709) 862075 LIMITED • Golf Course any course upgrading anywhere ASHWELLS ROAD, BENTLEY • New Course development BRENTWOOD, ESSEX CM15 9SR • Specialists in irrigation, AGRIPOWER drainage, contour and environmental surveys. TEL: (0277) 373720 Suite 4d, East Mill, Bridgefoot, Belper, Construction FAX: (0277) 374834 Derbyshire DE5 1XF. Tel: 0773 827115 Fax: 0773 821083 Drainage Mobile: 0850 744957 Stone Picking Michael Verti-Draining STRIKE TOP TURK Lowe Tel: (0494) 866776 Merchants to the sports & Associates International and leisure trade GOLF COURSE DESIGN, The complete range under one banner CONSTRUCTION & CONSULTANCY To advertise in the industry's - if you require it, we will have it Fertilisers - ill grades and types, loams and dressings, Design only, complete construction or premier European magazine, pesticides, top dressing; Rootzone. cockleshell; any stage in between, including call Bill Lynch on 091 413 Horticultural and agncultural tools, golf course Drainage. 'WHITE HORSE 1 equipment, work clothing and much, much more' Pro-Shop, 72 Bryniau Road, 7218; Carol Duttton Call 061 456 7109 or mobile 0831 639798 Llandudno, Gwynedd or Louise Lunn CONTRACTORS LTD for up to date list and quote Tel: (0492) 876878 Fax: (0492) 872420 SPORTSTURF 40 Offerton Road. Hazel Grove. Stockport. on 0347 838581 OXFORD (0865) 736272 Cheshire SK7 4NL Grass Cutting Equipment Making sure your Mower Spares SAVE Golf Irrigation system IRRIGATION MOWER ACCESSORIES MONfLW isn't a handicap. LTD EX DEMONSTRATION Contact: S. Penny AND TOP QUALITY REMANUFACTURED 109 Chapel Road, Hesketh Bank, Preston, • Manufacturers of high GOLF COURSE MACHINERY AVAILABLE Lanes., PR46RU Tel: (0772) 813571 East Midlands Area quality lawnmower FROM STOCK jacobsen Southern Office: N. Ford Tel: (0708) 761717 Installation, Sales and blades and cylinders. f B Service Suppliers of spares and è AQUAPLAST *VAN HAYTER Everton, Doncaster, DN10 5DR accessories. Putting water in its piace Tel: (0777) 817410 65 Forncett Street SLSIS CUSHMAN PQYER Sheffield S4 VERTI-DRAIN Tel: 0742 765825 IHHai rm BRITISH OVERHEAD Fax: 0742 765855 UK & EXPORT DELIVERY ARRANGED iitermafion IRRIGATION LTD. • MANUFACTURE EQUIPMENT • ? hone for a full catalogue NCW Manufacturers, designers • DESIGN AND INSTALL SYSTEMS • GREENSWARD The Green, Upper Halliford, and installers of Shepperton, Middlesex TW17 8RY Netting ENGINEERING COMPANY TEL. (0932) 788301 Fax. (0932) 780437 Manor Farm, Otley Road, Adel, Leeds LS 16 7AL, England GOLF COURSE Tel: (0532) 676000 IRRIGATION ••TILDENET Hmiter •DO ••• FOR 23 YEARS The Irrigation Innovators Grass Seed Gear driven sprinklers Tongham Road, Aldershot, • GERMINATION SHEETS including the new golf range Hants GU12 4AA • FROST PROTECTION SHEETS available from * TARGET NETS • PERIMETER NETTING Tel: 0252 336838 PROBLEM AREAS? S.G.I. Sales • BALL STOP NETTING Fax: 0252 336808 6 Stuart Road, * RAIN COVERS Scan-Seeding is Market Harborough, • MOBILE AND STATIC NETS Leics LE16 9PQ Available from all good distributors LONGBROOK HOUSE, ASHTON VALE Tel: 0858 463153 the answer ROAD, BRISTOL BS3 2HA ^^ for all aspects of Fax: 0858 410085 Our unique, mulch-free Tel: 0272 669684 hydroseeding system will I NOW YOU HAVE A CHOICE! solve your seeding problems •IjS golf course on difficult areas such as •• IRRIGATION • Installation • Service banks, slopes or where soil Automatic Watering pH Adjustment erosion may occur. • Extensions and Improvements The unique Scan-Binder soil • Pumping Systems Systems for Sports Oundle Road stabiliser ensures that the and Leisure Grounds altC Lutton seed stays in position until • Designed • Supplied • Installed •• mB Peterborough High pH? germination and I establishment. PE8 5ND GLEN HEAT & IRRIGATION Tel: Oundle (0832) 272450 Pinchbeck, Spalding, Lines. Call us now for more details and a quotation on |R Tel: (0775) 722327 A National is a unique source of ll Fax: (0775) 725444 flowable sulphur for use Irrigation Service 0372 749909 as a nutrient additive or Free consultation and design pH adjuster. service Available exclusively^ from (U.K.)LIMITED Suppliers of quality products for Lake Construction all types of irrigation Franchises available Local installation and and its ^^^^[^AOAOJi maintenance throughout the UK distributors. Irrigation Specialists in the refurbishment of Ring 0963 251129 today for existing irrigation systems more information and your own FREE pH adjuster chart. For further information éRTECH telephone 0460 241939 GT GROUP LIQUID SOD, LINDEN VIEW, SYSTEMS LTD. LEAST COST H- REDWING ROAD, MILBORNE PORT, WATERPROOFING OF SHERBORNE, DORSET, DT9 5DB TURF IRRIGATION LAKES AND RESERVOIRS SPECIALISTS OC MIS - using lining membranes and associated Design and service geosynthetic materials. We offer full design, Installation you can trust • Comprehensive service available to and After Sales Service owners/architects/consultants and contractors. GT GROUP, Nags Corner, Wiston Road, Pumps Hortech Systems Ltd, Nayland, COLCHESTER C06 4LT Hallgate, Holbeach, For technical and sales enquiries Tel: (0206) 262676 Spalding, Lines PE12 7LG Fax: (0206) 262998 GRUNDFOS Tel: 0406 426513 Tell the industry of your products PUMPS* Installation HAL and services, through an FOR SPORTS & RECREATIONAL I Sales TURF IRRIGATION, BOOSTING SW 'Roto* ^ TiO & Service advertisement in greenkeeping's AND WATER SUPPLY N.E. England, Yorkshire, top magazine GREENKEEPER N. Lines, N. Derbys, N. & S. Humberside Contact our sales offices today for The impact sprinkler for tees, Contact: E.B. & L. Simms INTERNATIONAL full information on the Grundfos range greens and fairways made in Tel: (0765) 602175 Fax: (0765) 603488 SOUTH: (0525) 850000 Britain by Par 4, Unit 18, Camphill Close, NORTH: (0925») 813300 Dallamires Lane, Ripon, CRESSWELL N. Yorks HG4 1TT Machinery Repairs ENGINEERING LTD GRUNDFOS [X

340/342 Cherry wood Road, Birmingham B9 4UU Tel: 021 772 2512 MIDLAND IRRIGATION Fax: 021 773 9548 AN INDEPENDENT IRRIGATION COMPANY HORTICULTURAL ENGINEERS Railway Sleepers 2 Fairdene Way, Great Barr, Service and repairs of all makes Birmingham B43 5JS of professional grass cutting T. & G. TURF equipment for the sports and RAILWAY SLEEPERS IRRIGATION SERVICES Tel: 0213581246 8'6" x 10" x 5" leisure industry CROSSING TIMBERS 38 Halfpenny Lane, Knaresborough, Fax: 0213576789 Contact Andrew or Rosemary 12" x 6" up to 16' long North Yorkshire HG5 0NS Price quoted for number required. DESIGN • SUPPLY Tel/Fax: 0827 284415 Tel & Fax: (0423) 864963 Tel(0233) 625121 or 620277 Full member of B.T.L.I.A. INSTALLATION • SERVICE Unit 7, Roman Park, Tame Valley Industrial Fagg's Fleet, Whitfield Road, Full member of BTLIA Estate, Wilnecote, Tamworth, Staffs B77 5DQ Ashford, Kent TN23 1TY Screeners/Shredders Tree Planting

GRADE /3D GOLDSMITH SOVEREIGN GRADEALL INTERNATIONAL LIMITED TREES & TURF Hundreds of uses in: Manufacturers of the SS100 LANDSCAPES Growers of consistent quality turf in Screener/Shredder either big or small rolls for landscapes, Golf Courses • Civil Specialists in growing amenity users and golf courses Engineering supplying, planting • Farming • Landscape and moving of Tel: 0728 688 984 Available ^^^ Gardening • Fish Farms Fax: 0728 688 949 in wood or concrete • Garden Centres TREES Crown Nursery,High Street Fir Tree Farm, Blaxhall, YVoodbridge, ASHWELL MAKE IT EASY Ufford,Suffolk IP13 6EL Suffolk IPI2 2DX • Sale, hire or buyback • Choice of new or used 9 Farlough Road, Dungannon, • Generous bulk discount • Cutting service Northern Ireland BT71 4DT T e I e p h o n e: 0394 4607 5 5 • Sale or return • Delivery Tel: 08687 40484 • Fax: 08687 48823 Grasslands Tree Planting Service Specialist Seed Grown. Turf Producers Seats Large Grants Available Covering the SOUTH EAST Tel: 0375 892576 Fax: 0375 891736 Grasslands Turf Farm. Ashford Road. New Unit G, Criton Ind. Est., Stanford Rd, Orsett, Essex RM16 3DH Eamonn Wall & Co. Woodland Design and Management Romney. Kent TN28 8TH Tel Fai (0679) 67130 22 West Burnside, Dollar Tell the industry of your products Tel: 0259 743212 TURF GROWN TO and services, through an YOUR SEED advertisement in greenkeeping s Seats, tables, chairs, Eastcote SPECIFICATION top magazine GREENKEEPER benches, I Nurseries or from our stock INTERNATIONAL planters and lit- ALL GROWN IN STERILE terbins made (Solihull) Ltd COMPOST from plantation Supplied nationwide grown teak. Listed in • Tree Spade hire the Good Wood Guide. • Tree moving GREENKEEPER LTD, Sand/Silica Sand Send for brochure • Semi mature trees Shelford Manor, Shelford, D-Scan (UK) Ltd Concorde Road, Patchway, Bristol BS12 5TB Nationwide service Nottingham NG12 1ER Tel: 0272 315335 Fax: 0272 315334 GRUNDON HAMPTON ROAD, BARSTON, SOLIHULL, Tel: 0949 21144 WEST MIDLANDS B92 0JL Fax: 0602 862139 Secure Storage Tel: 0675 442033 NOW SPREADING Fax: 0675 442324 IN YOUR AREA Tip Top Turf. SECURE STEEL LOCK-UPS Seed grown turf available in one sq yd Top Dressing (EX SHIPPING CONTAINERS) Trenchers or large 25 sq yd rolls with laying Bunker Sand FOR SALE OR HIRE machines or service available. Tel: 0908 270701 • Fax: 0908 374889 Root Zone TRENCHERS FOR HIRE Tees Dressing Width: 15cm-30cm All Aggregates Delivered to your golf club or premises by self Depth: up to 122cm Turf Dressings Path Gravels unloading lorries within 24 hours (Mainland UK) Trenchex Plant Sales Cockleshell 10' x 8', 20' x 8' and 40' x 8' insulated or uninsulated. IF YOU NEED ECONOMIC SECURE STORAGE Tel: 0889 565155 Fax: 0889 563140 NEW HOTLINE NUMBER: RING NOW FOR PROMPT Ji Contact Gordon EFFICIENT SERVICE • Sportsturf Ltd • on 0367 244078 LAWRENCE CONTAINERS Tel: 0622 820308 South-Tel: (0823) 432231 Fax:(0823)432231 Fax: 0622 820300 North - Tel: (0229) 465555 Fax: (0229) 465555 * Top Dressing * Root Zone Mix *

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TUPT COMPOSTS Contact John Deavin at Eastern Way Works, ARTIFICIAL GRASS TEE MATS, Eastern Way, Heath & Reach, DRIVING RANGE MATS AND Telford Way, Kettering, Leighton Buzzard, PUTTING SURFACES FROM Beds LU7 9LF Northants Tel: (0525) 237911 GROWERS AND SUPPLIERS OF HIGH Fax: (0525) 237991 CARPETITION LTD Tel: 0536 510515 QUALITY CULTIVATED TURF FOR ALL 14 Kaffir Road, Edgerton, APPLICATIONS AND APPOINTED ARC BUCKLAND Huddersfield HD2 2AN OFFICIAL TURF PRODUCERS INDUSTRIAL MINERALS Tel: (0484) 428777 Fax: (0484) 423251 TO WEMBLEY STADIUM Sand and Silica Company Rufford Please contact Head Office for more information: COMPLETE RANGE OF Timber Structures TOP-DRESS SUPPLIES HORTICULTURAL SANDS THE INTURF GROUP Regent Street • Pocklington • York Y04 2QN Britain's No. 1 for Contact Lynda Jordan Telephone 0759 304101 • Fax 0759 305229 QUALITY • SERVICE • Buckland Sand & Silica Co. • IMBERMAT SHEER VALUE FOR MONEY Reigate Heath, Reigate, PROTECT YOUR GREENS FROM HEAVY FAIRWAY HOUSE. SOUTH STAGE. BROADWAY. Surrey RH2 9RG MACHINES - HIRE TIMBERMATS. PHONE 061 476 6252 FAX 061 476 6253 SALFORD QUAYS. MANCHESTER M5 2UO Tel: (0737) 240151 NATIONWIDE SERVICE TEL: 061 877 8550 FAX: 061 877 8554 Turf Dressings Vertidraining Hire E&S SP0RTSGR0UND GREENBASE WORTH CONTRACTORS ROSS OLIVER WE'RE NO. 1 FOR VERTIDRAINING AND ECOLOGICAL LIMITED SPORTS GROUND CONSTRUCTION The ProBase range of Products AND MAINTENANCE HOLLOW CORING ON GREENS, TEES for Turf Dressings and Construction • VERTI-DRAIN for Greens and Sportsgrounds AND FAIRWAYS. materials. Lightweight. User friendly • STONE PICKING • RYAN HOLLOW TYNER VERTIDRAINING and FOR COMPETITIVE RATES AND A and economical • SAND SPREADERS • DIRECT DRILLS HOLLOW CORING HIRE PROFESSIONAL SERVICE, CONTACT Tel: 0427 811738 • Fax: 0427 810405 Greystones, Trebudannon, Cornwall TR8 4LP. Tel: (0841) 540222 Fax: (0637) 881057 with the G.A. 30 RICHARD VEITCH Contact Peter Bloodworth 0734 795454 BAILEYS MIDLAND TURF WORTH DRAINING The Fairways, King Street Lane, Winnersh, Cornbecks Farm, Irnham, Grantham, Wokingham, Berkshire RG11 5AX OF AERATING SERVICE Lincolnshire Tel/Fax: (0476) 550266 Fax: 0734 795353 NORFOLK * Verti-Draining * Hollow Coring with Ryan GA30 supply * Core Collector * Deep Weed Killing Professional Turf Dressings Slitting * Top Dresser for the Profession * Over-Seeder * Tractor Hire ^¡r • Verti Drain Hire • Hollow Coring GOLF TURF DRESSINGS • Competitive WEED Approved formulations for use in • Deep Spiking • Tractor Hire Construction and on the finest greens, prices * Professional • Full range of Landscape tees and fairways. nationwide service. Equipment FREE Tel/Fax 0922 417567 (BRACKNELL) SAND YORKSHIRES ONLY AGENT FOR 'WIEDENMANN TERRA-SPIKE' All requirements catered for including Charles Frost SPEH6R0UNDCARESERVICES Professional Weed Killing & lime free. Kiln dried sands available. Associated Turf Services SCREENED TOP SOIL PETER MANNINGTON Unit 7, Valley Road, Liversedge, Including the finest Black Fenland Soil. West Yorkshire WF15 6JY MIKE SEATON F.lnst.G(Dip) Screened loams to customers' m 0924 401522 • 0836 722080 individual specifications. Tel: (0344) 481011 We also produce and supply root zone Fax: (0344)300052 mix and always have vast stocks of Mobile: (0850) 300104 cockle shells for immediate delivery SEWARD DELIVERIES NATIONWIDE Specialist Verti-Drain Contractor for the South TURF MAINTENANCE You're at the end of the BAILEY& OF NORFOLK For greens, tees, fairways and sportsgrounds Brick Kiln Road, Hevingham, Experienced operator, competitive prices and reliable service CONTACT THE PROFESSIONALS Buyers' Guide section - if Ten years experience using only the best Norwich, Norfolk NR10 5NL Phone Peter on 0580 200205 you haven't found the ads Tel: 0603 754607 or Mobile 0850 612061 2 greens verti-drains (18 greens in 2 days) Sheepwash Farm, Church Street, Ticehurst, Mobile: 0860 661603 Half-inch tines at 2x2 spacing with the 3 symbols in yet, Wadhurst, East Sussex TN5 7DL Fairway verti-drain Coremaster complete with collector TRY AGAIN: FEN TURF DRESSINGS LTD Fairway overseeder IT COULD BE WORTH for Fendress Top Dressing PARKER HART Contact Michael Seward • Fendress Superfine • Economy Dressing Verti-draining, hollow coring, York (0904) 765949 night or day £50 • Rootzone Mixes conventional and hydro-seeding » Screened Fensoil • Screened Peat throughout the South East • Screened Loam • Kiln Dried Sand Complete range of turfcare • Bunker Sands machinery available for hire Competitive rates Reliable equipment Experienced operators Classified Tel: (0858) 464346/433003 Call Karen or Anne Fax: (0858) 434734 081 337 7791 Machinery For Sale Turf Maintenance QUALITY REBUILT SURPLUS TO REQUIREMENTS GROUNDCARE MACHINERY 1.5 metre wide (greens) Verti-drain, * Gang Mowers * Triple Mowers and Ford 1900 4WD tractor with * Cylinder Mowers * Aeration creeper gear box and turf tyres. Equipment * Scarification & £7,500 for both VERTIDRAIN MACHINES FOR Collection Equipment * Nationwide or Verti-drain (only) £4,700 +VAT FAIRWAYS AND GREENS Delivery, Export by Arrangement Delivery at cost. PROFESSIONAL TURF AVAILABLE FOR HIRE EFG GARDEN MACHINERY Tel: 0580 200205 MAINTENANCE AND RENOVATION Contact: Peter Holmes, 10 Carson EQUIPMENT AVAILABLE FOR HIRE Road, Gainsborough, Lines DN21 2RE Tenterfields Business Park, Mobile: 0850 612061 J, WOOD & SON Tel: 0427 613035 Luddendenfoot, Halifax HX2 6EJ. Mobile: 0831 359394 Tel: 0422 882165 (BILSDALE PLOUGHS) LTD Tel: (0377) 253313 Fax: (0377) 257465 Fax: 0422 886014 DRIFFIELD • RYEDALE • YORK ^/lic/va^ci {oain/iey For vertidraining, hollow coring, scarifying, and Tell the industry of your products overseeding requirements. and services, through an 1.5m and 2.5m vertidrains advertisement in greenkeeping s Greencare Corers top magazine GREENKEEPER Charterhouse Vertiseed INTERNATIONAL Marton Hall Lane, Marton, Macclesfield. Tel: 0260 224568 Head Greenkeeper - over 18 Will you soon qualify? Fax: 0260 224791J Tyres years' experience, fully Are you living abroad but conversant with computerised looking to move to the UK? irrigation systems, golf Perhaps you just fancy Sam Moreton & Sons course construction including a new job? TURF TYRI USGA specification greens For only £19.95, this space etc., currently over 18-hole could be working for YOU! Turf Tyres of all makes to fit (Solihull) course, seeks position, West any machine. Wheels made to Vertidrain, Moore Sportsfield Country or southern Ireland customer requirements. Over-Seeders, Verti preferred, however any area Over-Seeder for Greens & Tees, considered. Excellent Enquiries 092&-632269 Toro Aerators, Case Trenchers references supplied. Fax 0926 632023 & Sportsfield Slitters etc. Call Carol or Louise Orders 0926 613737 Contact: Doug or Ron Johnson Box No. JS 1/94, BIGGA, on 0347 838581 for details of Tel: (0564) 772597 Aldwark Manor, Aldwark, Alne, Greenkeeper International's Nationwide delivery service York Y06 2NF new Job Shop feature Fax available RECRUITMENT

WATERTON PARK • pic»

Brickendon Grange Golf& Country Club THE WATERON PARK Invites applications for the position of GOLF COURSE WAKEFIELD Head Greenkeeper require a Head Greenkeeper This is an excellent opportunity for a fully qualified Applicants should possess recognised greenkeeper to develop and manage a newly constructed 18 hole golf course, due for opening in qualifications. September 1995. The appointed Head Greenkeeper The successful applicant will have a sound must be fully conversant with all matters relating to knowledge of and experience in all aspects of turf culture, machinery purchase and man management as he will be expected to develop his course management and machinery own team of greenkeepers to a high standard to maintenance. maintain this very attractive golf course. The course The ability to lead and motivate staff, has been built to U.S.G.A. specification. The appointment will commence 1st September 1994. organise work programmes and maintain Salary negotiable according to qualification Health & Safety Requirements is essential. and experience.

Accommodation available. Applications with CV to:- Simon Gidman International Golf Course Architects Apply in confidence with C.V. to Wychwood House The Secretary, Brickendon Grange Golf & Country Club, 43 Shipton Road Brickendon, near Hertford, Herts. SG13 8PD. Ascott under Wychwood OXON OX7 6AG

Swinley Forest Golf Club

invite applications for the position of Head HEAD Greenkeepers The Grounds Maintenance Service of BRETS has GREENKEEPER secured a five year contract for the maintenance of three Golf Courses within the London Borough of Ealing. As a consequence, we now require two Head For an 18 hole golf course situated in heather Greenkeepers for the nine hole courses at Horsenden and Perivale. and pine surroundings west of London. You should hold a recognised greenkeeping Applicants must be fully experienced in all qualification together with five years' relevant aspects of modern course management and experience, two of which should have been in a supervisory capacity. You will also require a full maintenance techniques. driving licence and appropriate Pesticide Application Certificates. The ability to manage, control and motivate Earnings will be in the region of £14,000 p.a. staff is essential. according to location. For further information contact Robert Cox The salary and benefits are commensurate (Grounds Maintenance Manager) on 0831 850091 with this responsible position, family Alternatively contact the BRETS Personnel accommodation is provided. Department for further details and an application form at 24 Uxbridge Road, Ealing, London W5 2BP. Tel: 081 Please reply in writing with full CV to: 758 5565. Please quote reference no. BR010 The Secretary, Swinley Forest Golf Club, Coronation Road, Ascot, Berks SL5 9LE HO^l Brown & Root Ealing Technical Services RECRUITMENT

The Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers MUIRFIELD, GULLANE, EAST LOTHIAN

This famous golf club invites applications for the post of: Billingham Golf Club COURSE MANAGER invites applications for the post of HEAD GREENKEEPER HEAD The successful applicant for this prestigious appoint- ment must have a sound knowledge of all aspects of greenkeeping, with particular emphasis on links turf GREENKEEPER management. A practical knowledge of the use and maintenance of greenkeeping machinery and the ability to lead and motivate staff is essential. The Applicants must be fully qualified and be able to show a Course Manager will have responsibility for the proven record of achievement. maintenance and presentation of the golf course under the direction of the Captain and Committee. The ability to lead and motivate staff, organise work programmes and an awareness of all relevant Health An attractive package, which includes a 3 bedroom, and Safety legislation is essential. centrally heated house adjacent to the course, mileage allowance and other benefits commensurate The successful applicant will also be expected to have with a club of this standing is negotiable. a sound knowledge of budgetary control.

Written application with details of age, qualifications Salary negotiable. No accommodation. and experience to: Replies in writing together with full CV to

The Secretary, Secretary/Manager, Billingham Golf Club Ltd, The Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers, Sandy Lane, Billingham, Cleveland TS22 5NA. Muirfield, Gullane, East Lothian, EH31 2EG by 21st June 1994

Newark Golf Club fS\ Meltham Golf Club requires an invites applications for the post of ASSISTANT HEAD GREENKEEPER This parkland course requires applicants who are suitably GREENKEEPER qualified and experienced in all aspects of course management. The ability to motivate and lead an established team and organise For an 18 hole heathland golf course. Applicants must be work programmes is regarded as essential. suitably qualified in all aspects of course maintenance. A practical knowledge of modern greenkeeping machinery and Wage is negotiable dependent upon age and experience. current Health & Safety regulations is also required. Accommodation is available. Salary negotiable. No accommodation. Apply in writing, enclosing a CV to: Apply in writing, with full CV to: Mr JDF Cressey, Chairman of Green, Newark Golf Club, The Secretary, Meltham Golf Club, Thick Hollins Hall, Coddington, Newark, Notts NG24 2QX Meltham, Huddersfield HD7 3DQ

Settle Golf Club PROFESSIONAL GRASS MACHINERY ^ require a SALESPERSON Due to forthcoming expansion of our Ransomes Professional Grass Machinery territory, we require an experienced, GREENKEEPER enthusiastic salesperson to call on Golf Courses, Local Authorities and other Professional Machinery users in Bedfordshire and Applicants must be experienced in all aspects of Cambridgeshire. greenkeeping and have a practical knowledge of modern The successful applicant will enjoy the benefit of a company car, machinery. commission and the option to join an attractive Company Pension | Scheme. Salary according to experience. Accommodation is not available. Salary negotiable according to experience. EDKIEQT Applications in writing to: Mr A jurbin, Grass Machinery Sales Manager Apply in first instance with full particulars to: Ernest Doe & Sons Limited The Secretary, Settle Golf Club, 9 South Parade, Ulting, Maldon, Essex CM9 6QH Settle, North Yorkshire BD24 9AX. Tel: 0729 823596 & SONS LTD ^ RECRUITMENT

Holtye Golf Club - Sussex ® Applications are invited for the newly vacant post of HEAD GREENKEEPER This post is ideally suited to a young, Phase III qualified Assistant looking for a first supervisory role. The successful applicant will need to demonstrate their ability by continuing to maintain this established Heathland 9 hole course to the very high standards enjoyed over recent years. The Irrigation Innovators Salary will be in accordance with age, experience and qualifications. No accommodation. Apply in writing with full CV to: JP Holes, Secretary/Manager, SOLE UK Holtye Golf Club, Cowden, Nr. Edenbridge, Kent TN8 7ED

SITE MANAGER DISTRIBUTORS required for the HUNTER Due to demand in UK and abroad, Patrick Tallack Golf Course Design & Construction require a Site Manager. Experience required in working to USGA spec. GOLF RANGE Own car. Salary negotiable. Send CV to: Patrick Tallack, Springfield Park Golf Club, of SPRINKLERS Burntwood Lane, London SW17 OAT

RIJUVINATI YOUR SPORTS GROUND IRRIGATION GHSHMAH TURI-TRUCK Sales WITH A KOMLER 6 Stuart Road, COMMAND IHGIHI Market Harborough,

Many Turf-trucks are still in good condition, but powered Leics LE169PQ by an engine which is now unreliable and parts are difficult to obtain. A kit is now available to replace the existing engine with a KOHLER COMMAND 20 h.p. engine. The COMMAND repower kit saves both capital and running costs. A usable machine Tel: (0858)463153 for the price of an engine makes sound economic (0858) 464853 sense. Get the facts from: AD J.H. Hancox Limited, Fax: (0858)410085 REF Alcester Road, Portway, BIRMINGHAM, B48 7JA, 397 AD West Midlands. Tel: 0564 824343, Fax: 0564 824073 REF 148 t is my belief that the vast majority of our Action demonstrations present problems are due to the lack of A pin position was changed all the time a communication and presentation of our- commentary was done on what the staff have selves and our staff. If, as we have proved to think about before a place is selected - Iat Letchworth, this can be largely overcome, nobody I spoke to following this demonstra- everybody - including member, committee tion had any idea how much was involved. member and secretary - is much happier and, The differences between triple and hand dare I say, the greenstaff are better paid. Everyone agrees that good mowing were explained along with height of Giving a presentation such as the one out- communication between the cut, hand watering, wetting agents and dry lined below may seem a daunting task but, if keepers of the green and the users patch. successful, makes all our other tasks much of the green is essential, but is it We even set up a situation on the first fair- easier. worth going to the extra bother of way where one of the greenstaff was cutting a Following five years of annual course man- organising a presentation evening fairway and an irate lady member (assistant ager presentations in the clubhouse giving pro with a skirt on) was trying to play the for members? Duncan McGilvray, updates on progress, describing problems, first hole. course manager at Letchworth, with the assistance of invited speakers, and I could then discuss the difficulties experi- reckons it is. answering sometimes difficult questions, I enced by both parties and explain why - and believed that there was something more that more importantly how - they could be over- could be done to get the message across was down to a very nervous course manager. come in the future. regarding what the job of the greenkeeper Following my brief introduction of what the I then closed the reasonably formal part of was all about. evening would hold for our members I started the evening and invited all present to visit our Then in 1992 I attended an EGU seminar on with our greenstaff. workshops for cheese and wine and discus- policy documents and there was the answer - sions with all the staff. Ed McCabe and Arthur King from Brocken- The staff hurst Manor Golf Club had given their com- I spoke about each of them in turn, probably The workshop visit mittee and membership a presentation of the embarrassed some, named them, went The members were generally left on their greenstaff and their equipment. through their service history, explained about own to look at whatever they liked with the With great enthusiasm I returned to work training and some of the tasks they had to staff on hand to answer questions - they were the next day and planned our own presenta- carry out and the difficulties they were up kept very busy and a very good atmosphere tion at Letchworth. against in getting some of those tasks com- was created. Firstly I asked the greenstaff what they pleted with golfers on the course. Some of the attractions were bench set-ups thought. All agreed it was a good idea and of vertical cutting units and back-lapping suggested different set-ups to get the most The machinery machinery. We especially took time out to from the day - even though it was scheduled How much it cost. I explained that they are show some of the behind-the-scenes adminis- for a Friday evening in the middle of summer. not just lawnmowers in the same way as tration involved, ie. year planners for compe- With that sort of backing from our staff I knew greenkeepers are not just grasscutters. How titions, holidays, maintenance schedules etc, it would work. Permission from the club? No much the machinery costs to maintain and diaries, day books, forward planners, machin- problems. Huge encouragement from our liai- more importantly the costs and problems ery records and health and safety require- son officer. The treasurer even advised me to which would occur if it was not maintained. ments. set-up a separate budget so When I look back, the good that we could do it properly that was done on that one (decent PA system, cheese and evening in June 1993 will last wine, etc). Treasurers always a very long time - the mem- know somehow that a little bership know much more money spent now bears fruit about the work that we do, way into the future. and that is no bad thing. So all the preparations were Much more importantly they made (far too many to list) now see the staff as highly and the day arrived. trained, respectable, profes- sional people. 5pm: Final staff briefing. All The staff themselves got a staff including seasonal and great deal from the evening as part-time were there. well - they now look at our 4.30-6.15pm: PA system membership in a different installed and tested. light - not just aloof golfers 5.30-6.15pm: All relevant who get in the way of their equipment, machinery and work. staff to putting green and in It is a fact that the member- place for presentation. ship pay subscriptions which 5.30-6.15pm: Still and video ultimately pay our salaries and cameras set up so that an if they know that the course is accurate record of the event Above: the club president gets the managed by trained profes- could be kept - all set up and members in the sionals they will not argue at monitored by our liaison offi- mood for course any time in the future regard- cer Brian Hodder (without manager Duncan ing additional finance to main- McGilvray whom my position as course tain and improve golf course manager would be near Left: members take conditions. impossible). a look round the workshops We made the effort - I 6.30pm: The presentation would urge my colleagues begins - and the sun was even everywhere to do likewise. shining. Believe me, it is certainly The president of the club, worth the hassle. who introduces all our course • Duncan McGilvray has been presentations, introduced me at Letchworth GC for more than with his usual flair and then it six years. % Appointment lo MM The Queer cturers of Horticultural ~ Fisons ptc Ipswich Now, thanks to Aquamaster,TM you can call the shots.

At last there's a wetting agent which gives

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Whether your requirement is for an annual

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Aquamaster not only lets you use the

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reason for calling the shots?

So whether it's golf, bowls or general sports

turf you care for, Aquamaster wetting and

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at a stroke.

rotar REF 102 Fisons pic, Horticulture Division, Paper Mill Lane, Bramford, Ipswich IP8 4BZ Telephone 0473 830492 Facsimile 0473 830386 Fisons and Aquamaster are Trade Marks of Fisons pic. © Fisons pic 1994. EAST SCOTLAND 5 W ENGLAND POWERSHIFT ROCHFORD Dundee GARDEN 0382 24152 MACHINERY LTD Wincanton WEST 0963 33713 SCOTLAND NAIRN BROWN DEVON GARDEN BY APPOINTMENT TO H.M THE OUEEQUEEN ^H M ^^^ MACHINERY (Glasgow) LTD MANUFACTURERS OF AGRICULTURAL MACHINERY HAYTFR LIMITED Glasgow HAYTERS PLC Torquay 041 644 3563 0803 872124

NORTHERN G J HANDY ENGLAND 6 CO LIMITED GIBSONS GARDEN Swindon MACHINERY LIMiTED THE COURSE LEADER 0793 721615 Kirkham 0772 682516 RON SMITH AND CO LIMITED FEWSTER AGRIC Worcester SERVICES LIMITED T44 0905 23887 Seaton Burn 091 236 4155 HENNINGS HORTICULTURAL! F R SHARROCK Falmouth LIMITED 0326 250020 Wigan 0257 422710 LONDON & SOUTHERN MOUNTAINS MOWERS ENGLAND Leeds 0532 531201 GOLF AND TURF EQUIPMENT SEWARD Basingstoke AGRICULTURAL 0734 326484 MACHINERY Beverley ERNEST DOE & SONS LTD 0482 869155 Dartford MIDLANDS 0322 863285 GROUNDCARE NEW FOREST FARM Lincoln MACHINERY LIMITf 0526 860060 Ringwood 0425 472572 MITCHELL FARM INDUSTRIES LTD NORTH WALE Nottingham MAJOR R OWEN 0785 787987 LIMITED Penrhyndeudraeth MOTRAC Nesscliffe 0766 770261 074 381528 SOUTH WALES WFIGRASSCARE PRO TURF Stratford upon Avon Carmarthen 0789 204073 0267 233648

WOODLANDS TED HOPKINS BRIGSTOCK LIMITED Newport Kettering 0633 680754 0536 373238 NORTHERN EAST ANGLIA IRELAND BEN BURGESS CYRIL JOHNSTON GARDEN EQUIPMENT AND CO LIMITED LIMITED Belfast Norwich 0232 813121 0603 628251 SOUTHERN COWIES EASTERN IRELAND TRACTORS LIMITED DUBLIN GRASS Chelmsford 0245 256281 MACHINERY Dublin COWIES EASTERN 010 353 1 386995 TRACTORS LIMITED Woodbridge J W TOOL SERVICES 0394 382801 LIMITED Galway GRASSHOPPER 010 353 91755321 HORT. LIMITED Chelmsford JOHN O'FLYNN 0245 362377 AND SON LIMITED Cork ERNEST DOE & SONS 010 353 21314088 Stevenage 0438 869251 CHANNEL ISLANDS GOLF AND TURF TONY M AH Y EQUIPMENT Guernsey Codicote 0481 45468 0438 820879

RISBORO TURF LIMITED Princes Risborough 0844 274127

THE PROFESSIONALS' NUMBER ONE CHOICE

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