Rain Bird® Golf in the United Kingdom and Ireland

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Royal Wimbledon Golf Club, Maxi Nimbus Decoder & Surrey, England Freedom Royal St George's Golf Club, Maxi Nimbus Decoder & Kent, England Freedom Royal Cinque Ports, Kent, Maxi Nimbus Decoder England Reading Golf Club, Berkshire, Maxi Nimbus Decoder England MAXI ®Nimbus™ Central Control Maxi Nimbus Decoder System designed for golf course Sunningdale Golf Club, Surrey, irrigation England St. Enedoc Golf Club, Cornwall, Maxi Nimbus Decoder England Southport & Ainsdale Golf Club, Maxi Nimbus Decoder & Merseyside, England Freedom The London Golf Club, Kent, Maxi V- Satellite SBM England The Honourable Company of Endinburgh Maxi Nimbus Decoder & Golfers Freedom Muirfield, Scotland The Belfry - Brabazon & PGA Course, Maxi Nimbus Decoder West Midlands, England Rain Bird Europe S.A.R.L. The Wynyard Golf Club, Cleveland, Maxi Nimbus Decoder 535, Rue Georges Claude B.P. 72000 England 13792 Aix-en-Provence, Cedex 3 Weymouth Golf Club, Dorset, Maxi Nimbus Decoder FRANCE England Tel.:(33) 4 42 24 44 61 Woburn Golf Club - Marquess Course, Maxi Nimbus Decoder Fax: (33) 4 42 24 24 72 Buckinghamshire, England Rain Bird U.K. Office Yeovil Golf Club, Somerset, Maxi Nimbus Decoder Phone: (44) 1273.891.326 England Fax: (44) 1273. 891.327

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Rain Bird Golfs mission is to Ballybunion Golf Club, Co Kerry, Maxi Nimbus Decoder & meet or exceed customers' Ireland Freedom expectations in the worldwide Celtic Manor - The Championship Course, Maxi Nimbus Decoder golf market with a long term commitment to profitably Gwent, Wales provide and support defect-free, Coombe Hill Golf Club, Surrey, Maxi Nimbus Decoder environmentally sound, England irrigation management Carden Park - The Championship Course, Maxi Nimbus Decoder & products and practices. Cheshire, England Freedom Among others, the following courses in the UK and Ireland Enmore Park Golf Club, Somerset, Maxi Nimbus Decoder benefit from the reliability of a England Rain Bird Maxi computer Fota Island Golf Course, Co. Cork, Maxi Nimbus Decoder based control system and Rain Ireland Bird sprinklers: Forest of Arden Hotel G & C Club, Maxi Nimbus Decoder West Midlands, England Farnham Golf Club, Hampshire, Maxi Nimbus Decoder England The Eagle™ rotors are designed Glen Eagles - King's & Queen's Course, Maxi Cirrus Decoder & specially to withstand the rigors of Tayside, Scotland Freedom golf course irrigation applications Happy Valley Golf Club, Surrey, Maxi Nimbus Decoder England Killarney Golf & Fishing Club, Maxi Nimbus Decoder Co. Kerry, Ireland Magnolia Golf Club, Oxfordshire, Maxi Nimbus Decoder England Merrist Wood Golf Club, Surrey, Maxi Nimbus Decoder England Ring of Kerry Golf and Country Club, Maxi Nimbus Decoder Co. Kerry, Ireland Richmond Golf Club, Surrey, Maxi Cirrus Decoder & England Freedom January 1999 Greenkeeper International President The Rt Hon. Viscount Whitelaw K.T., C.H., M.C., D.I

Your next issue of Greenkeeper The official monthly magazine of International will be with you the British & International Golf by February 14, 1999 BIGGA Board of Management Greenkeepers Association Chairman - Gordon Child Vice Chairman - Elliott Small Editorial Past Chairman - Patrick Murphy Editor: Scott MacCallum Tel: 01347 833800 Fax: 01347 833801 Board Members Regulars Advertising Richard Barker Sales & Marketing Manager: George Barr News James McEvoy Robin Greaves Jim Paton Sales & Marketing Assistants: Pages 7, 8, 9, 10 Ian Holoran Jenny Panton, Cheryl Broomhead Tel: 01347 833800 Fax: 01347 833802 8 Assistant Profile Executive Director E-mail: [email protected] Neil Thomas B.A. Design 10 Letters Administration Manager Design & Production Editor: David Emery John Pemberton Tel: 01347 833800 ISDN: 01347 830020 13 The Learning Experience Printing Education Officer Hi-Tec Print, Units 9-10, Houghton Road, Ken Richardson Spray Away. Keith McKee 'of Scotts' discusses North Anston Trading Estate, North pesticide usage Sales & Marketing Manager Anston, Sheffield S25 4JJ James McEvoy Tel: 01909 568533 Fax: 01909 568206 17 Money Matters ISDN: 01909 550561 Membership Services Officer Tracey Maddison 19 Letters Greenkeeper International: Winner of Certificate of Merit in Magazine of the Year cate- gory, Editing for Industry Awards 1994 and 1995. 21 Education Contents may not be reprinted or otherwise reproduced without Ken Richardson updates you on education matters written permission. Return postage must accompany all materi- you can contact I ne British and als submitted if return is requested. within the greenkeeping industry No responsibility can be assumed for unsolicited materials. The International Golf Greenkeepers right is reserved to edit submissions before publication. Association in any number of ways: Although every care will be taken, no responsibility is accepted 30 Talking Heads for loss of manuscripts, photographs or artwork. Post: BIGGA HOUSE, Aldwark, A new bi-monthly feature which this month looks at Alne, York, Y061 1UF Opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the Association, and no responsibility is accepted for such content, Temporary Greens Tel: 01347 833800 advertising or product information that may appear. Circulation is by subscription. Subscription rate: UK £36 per Fax: 01347 833801 year, Europe and Eire £46. The magazine is also distributed to 33-38 Around the Green BIGGA members, golf clubs, local authorities, the turf industry, E-mail: [email protected] libraries and central government. ISSN: 0961-6977 55 Sand Green Destruction www.bigga.org.uk Internet: © 1999 British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association Sandy McDivot tears his hair out after a battle with Take All Patch

58 Features Listing Helping you track down some of Greenkeeper Use our post-paid readier International's previous articles reply card to obtain further information on the products and services advertised in this issue. 58 As I see it... The Fund provides the key to the National Chairman, Gordon Child, keeps bumping into the January 1999 Greenkeeper International Advertiser Ad Ref Page future for greenkeeper, golf club and McMillan clan AF Trenchers Ltd 203 42 game. Individuals and com- Amenity Technology 431 60 Barenbrug UK Ltd 172 29 panies can Join the Golden Cargills 566 6 Key Circle and Silver Key Charterhouse 130 34-35 Circle. For details, please Cleveland Sitesafe 56 41 Clubcar UK 583 26 bigga contact BIGGA on Eagle Promotions 549 15 GOLDEN KEY Even Products 609 57 and SILVER KEY CIRCLES Evergreens UK 526 26 Fineturf Agronomy 584 22 Firbank Recycling 611 42 Golden Key Circle Company Members Flowtronex 610 39 Amazone Ground Care, Barenbrug, 563 11 Green-Releaf™ Charterhouse Turf Machinery Ltd, Hayter Ltd, Greensward Engineering 312 37 Hepworth Minerals Ltd 514 22 Jacobsen E-Z-Go Textron, John Deere Ltd, Hi-Chem UK 510 18 Kubota UK Ltd, Levington Horticulture Ltd, Irrigation Scotland 283 20 Scotts Turf & Amenity, Mommersteeg JD Greasley 461 10 John Deere Ltd 103 45 International, Ocmis Irrigation UK Ltd, PGA Lely UK Ltd 61 16-17 European Tour, Rainbird, Ransomes, Rhone- Marlwood 501 59 Poulenc Amenity, Rigby Taylor Ltd, Supaturf Martin Brothers 12 42 Multi'Core 347 42 Products Ltd, The Toro Company North Staffs Irrigation 217 41 Rainbird 443 2-3 I As I see it.. Sharpes International 453 32 Silver Key Circle Company Members Textron 9 12 Avoncrop Amenity Products, Ernest Doe & Sons Ultra Plant 473 32 Ltd, Lambert/Fenchurch UK Group Ltd, Rolawn Weed Free 504 39 Whitemoss Amenities 606 37 Ltd, Sisis Equipment Ltd, Weed Free Wiedenmann UK Ltd 326 39

BTME99 brochure BTME is almost here! Advertiser Ad Ref Page Allen Power Equipment 126 2 Check out your education, BLEC Landscape 98 29 conference and exhibitor British Seed Houses Ltd 87 23 Club Car 583 14 information with your free Eric Hunter 73 35 BTME catalogue! FAF 197 22 Fairfield Turf 18 26 Flowtronex 610 25 Greensward Engineering 312 26 Hepworth Minerals Ltd 514 31 Kawasaki 544 31 Lely 61 36 Major Equipment 419 29 Maxicrop 174 4 Ocmis 360 7 Rhone-Poulenc 59 9 Rigby Taylor 127 10 Tarmac 576 26 Win £50 in our Buyers' Guide quiz Tonick Watering 503 24

4 Greenkeeper International January 1999 Beware Greenl(feuer of these INTERNATIONAL b s

I can vividly recall an occasion when I thought about the new millennium - although I don't think we called it that then - and worked out that I would be 38 years old when it arrived. To be quite frank. I couldn't envisage being that ancient. Features Now we are so close to 21(, as the more trendy have chosen to describe the next thousand years, that we 23 Tiara. Crowning glory are less than 12 months away English Greenkeeper Paul Davies is now working However, rather than getting ready to celebrate a in Colorado at Tiara Rado and keeping out of the once in a lifetime experience, much of the talk is of the ~-'~"T. potential doom and despondency which might be . -~. way of lizards! caused by a new threat to mankind. In Biblical times it was plagues of locusts which ~-- 27 Wherethere'sa Will... -- -. caused populations to quake but we've got something "":.Ii "" Will Sutherland built Lyshott Heath Golf Club and different - Millennium Bugs. Although no-one has - now masterminds its organically, based manage- actually seen one of these creatures I suspect they're a ment practices little like Gremlins and, like Gremlins, they are threat- ening to wreak havoc right across the globe. Then, so 40 Has the worm turned? rumour has it, they are going to leave just as fast as Dr Steve Baker and Daniel Binns, of the STRI, they arrived, certainly before Rentokil has had time to discuss progress on the worm research come up with a deterrent. We have been told to avoid flying as the clock ticks 43 Puttingon the Stylo past midnight on the 31st of December; advised to Stylo Matchmaker are the latest Golden Key stock up with food; avoid being in lifts at the crucial moment. .. the list is endless, because quite frankly Company and are about to launch BIGGA:s new no-one really knows what to expect. workwear range After all there isn't anyone still around from the time we last entered a new Millennium to ask. With the smooth running of so many golf clubs now reliant on computers it is important to discover whether you are Millennium Compliant otherwise you might show up in early January; having shaken off a Millennium Dome-sized hangover, just in time to develop another headache when you discover that all your records and feeding programmes for the year ahead have been lost. Before all that though we have the final BTME of this Millennium and Harrogate is gearing itself up for the influx of greenkeepers and other familiar faces who provide the mix that makes the week such a memorable one for all who attend. The signs are all good, pre-registrations are up on last year, the workshops and seminar sessions which make up the Learning Experience, in association with Textron, are full or filling up fast and the quality of speaker attracted to Harrogate is setting new stan- @ Puting on the Stylo dards of excellence. One in particular to look out for is well known ath- letic coach, Frank Dick OBE, who is delivering a free- to-attend speech on Wednesday at 11am. Frank is at the top of the tree when it comes to motivational speaking and we are delighted that he has found time in his busy schedule to attend BTME. I am certainly going to be there and I'm also looking forward to meeting up with many of you during the course of the week. It'll help take my mind off these horrible bugs. Happy New Year to you all.

Editor:

@ Tiara. Crowning glory

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Membership Subscriptions BIGGA HOUSE BIGGA HOUSE Aldwark Aldwark Alne Alne York York Y061 1UF Y061 1UF EGU withdraw GTC funding ISO 9001 for Textron BIGGA is printing in full a recent exercise their prerogative to decide with the English Golf Union over Press Release from the English Golf whether or not to send trainees to new initiatives in greenkeeper train- Textron Turf Care & Specialty Union which is likely to have wide- educational institutions. ing. This coincided with a decision Products has achieved ISO 9001 ranging effects on the future of For senior greenkeeping staff wish- by the English Golf Union to with- Certification for their manufacturing greenkeeper training. Following this ing to continue a recognised pro- draw its support from the facility at Ipswich in the UK. Press Release, the STRI issued a gramme of on-going training and Greenkeepers Training Committee. Spokesman, Kevin Forrest, Quality Press Release outlining its position in education it is envisaged that a series The STRi wishes to make it clear Manager said 'We are delighted to this matter and this is also included of lectures will be held at the that there is no linkage between have achieved ISO 9001 for readers' information. National Golf Centre at Woodhall these events as far as STRI is con- Certification as this is a result of Spa during the winter period cerned. STRI did not know about many months of hard work by all EGU Press Release Dated between October and March each the English Golf Union decision to departments in the Company and November 12 year. These lectures will be highly withdraw funding from the GTC gaining ISO 9001 has considerably intensive, culminating in an exami- until after the event. The decision improved both employee motivation The English Golf Union's new nation and with levels of success was made by the English Golf Union and commitment to quality. It has initiative for Greenkeeper Training being recognised by Certificates of alone. The STRI has expressed gen- resulted in a significant improve- Achievement. It is proposed that the eral support for educational initia- ment in internal quality standards. The English Golf Union Executive full series of lectures will comprise of tives by the English Golf Union, "Our intention as a business is to Committee have endorsed the rec- around 20 subjects and that the pro- which is one of STRI's founder be a company that is easy to do busi- ommendation of its Golf Course gramme will be made available to Members, for the good of the game ness with and ISO 9001 has certain- Committee for the future training of senior greenkeepers employed at of golf in England, as it would for the ly had a significant part to play in golf greenkeepers in England. Clubs affiliated to the Union. On other Home Unions. the achievement of this objective." The recommendation follows the behalf of its affiliated Clubs the The Textron Turf Care Group re-appraisal of the current training Union intend to ensure that the already has two other facilities carry- and funding programme and will funds for training provided by its It should be noted that the EGU ing ISO 9001 Certification. They are involve the introduction of a dual members are used to the best possi- Press Release does not mention the the Racine facility and the Johnson structure approach to instruction. ble advantage and benefit of the fact that the EGU has written to the Creek manufacturing plant in the The curriculum will be designed to greenkeeping industry. Greenkeepers Training Committee achieve the improvement and main- Support for this initiative from the to advise that EGU membership of tenance of golf courses through the fine turf industry has been most the GTC will cease as of 31 March improved quality of better educated encouraging as has the endorsement 1999. Consequently after that date, and informed greenkeeping staff. by the Sports Turf Research Institute the EGU will no longer be providing ISO 9002 The Union are convinced that this whose technical expertise, education- funding towards GTC expenditure in innovative approach will ensure that al and instructional skills will be support of greenkeeper training. for Supaturf all of its funding will be specifically incorporated within the training syl- Commenting on developments, directed to the actual training of labus. BIGGA Chairman, Gordon Child Supaturf Products Ltd is celebrat- greenkeepers. The administration of the scheme who represents the Association on ing the recent award of the ISO 9002 It has been established that the will be centred at The National Golf the GTC said, "This is a serious mat- quality standard. vast majority of junior greenkeeping Centre, Woodhall Spa and an ter with considerable implications Supaturf has been a leading force staff receive their training from their English Golf Union Training for the future of greenkeeper train- in the industry for 35 years offering on-course work and through the Committee will be established to ing. The GTC has since met and innovative products, but can now management and ministrations of ensure the essential quality of the asked for an urgent meeting with the also claim to be among that small their Course Manager or Head introduction and maintenance of the EGU's Golf Course Committee. group of suppliers who lead the way Greenkeeper. Support for the syllabus. BIGGA will be closely monitoring in quality of production and service Government funded modern the situation but will await the out- to their customers. apprenticeship scheme is endorsed STRI Press Release Dated come of that meeting and the subse- "We regard this award as the start by the Union who will ensure its November 23 quent deliberations of the GTC of a new phase of development for continuance by providing adminis- before determining its own position Supaturf. Now we don't just think trative support and additional Greenkeeper Training Committee on behalf of its members." that we do what we say we do, we monies where they consider this is Greenkeeper International will know we do, and have the system to appropriate. The English Golf Union STRI has received a number of continue to follow developments back us up and the award to prove it. recognise that Clubs may wish to enquiries regarding its collaboration and report further in future issues. An outstanding result for everybody at Supaturf and good news for our customers" said Marcus Palmer, Ronnie cleans up at Gleneagles Managing Director. Top post for This year's Gleneagles Excell- ence in Golf Award Scheme win- Catherine ner was Ronnie Lumsden, who, after 23 years working for a life assurance company, chose an alto- Spaldings has appointed Catherine gether different career. Locking to the board of Spaldings UK Ronnie moved to Elmwood as Sales Director of their Grasscare College to studv for a National division. Certificate in Greenkeeping and Catherine joined the division from its an HNC in Golf Course start up in 1993 after previously gain- Management. Alongside his ing wide experience of the industry Elmwood studies, he also chose to with a manufacturer of replacement further his passion for golf course grass cutting spares and has worked in design by securing a place on the the industry for over 10 years. BIGCA Professional Diploma in dents feel that the year has given ment, following three and a half Since start up the division has grown Golf Course Architecture at them an excellent base upon years managing and maintaining from a standing start in 1993 to Merrist Wood. which to launch their course man- the nine hole golf course at become market leader in the replace- Of hisyear at Gleneagles,Ronnie agement careers." Hoddom Castle Caravan Park. ment grass cutting spares, tools and said: "The students enjoyed work- The second place position went Both Ronnie and Susan were accessories market by 1998. Supplying ing with the golf course manage- to Susan Rothwell. Susan arrived presented with bursary cheques many leading grounds maintenance ment team at Gleneagles. at Gleneagles from Myerscough to include a trip to the GCSAA professionals, local authorities and Everyone put in an amazing College after deciding to extend conference and show in Orlando, contractors in both the UK and main- amount of work and all the stu- her knowledge of turf manage- Florida, next February. land Europe.

January 1999 Greenkeeper International 7 • Curse of big name designers Profile You wouldn't be too thrilled if your airline pilot announced that it was his debut flight or your surgeon told you that it was the first time he had per- Usually the spotlight falls on formed the particular operation that the Course Manager or Head had resulted in you being flat on your Greenkeeper at a Club. back in theatre. Now it is the turn of those That was the analogy used by golf whose work often goes course architect, David Williams, when unheralded to star. he bemoaned the fact that big name golfer/designers had their first work trumpeted by the press and media. He was delivering a paper at the bien- nial British Institute of Golf Course Architects Conference sponsored by Barenbrug, Toro and Club Car at The Wentworth Gub. David continued by saying that people wouldn't have too much faith in the new Ford if you knew it was designed America where club golfers regularly Among the other speakers at the one- by Damon Hill or Nigel Mansell but knew who had designed particular day conference was Bob Taylor and that we are happy for a top golfer to courses and they could discuss the var- Mike Canaway of the STRI; architect design a golf course. ious styles of Robert Trent Jones, Pete Peter Harradine; Jimmy Kidd of On the other side of the coin David, Dye and Tom Fazio. Gleneagles Golf Developments; Parker who has designed a number of 18 hole David Williams also talked about the Smith, of Sports Opportunity; David courses including Merrist Wood and fashion of inflating the cost of particu- Clarke, of Golf World; Trevor Homer, Name: Antony Bindley Reigate Hill, said that during the last lar projects in the press which lured the of the Golf Foundation, and David Open Championship there was much public into thinking that the more Wright, of the PGA. Club: Kirby Muxloe praise on the BBC for the redesigned spent the better the course. The day before the Seminar the West and reconstructed greens but now once He urged the media to name the Course hosted the traditional golf tour- Position: First Assistant was Martin Hawtree mentioned. architect in reviews of golf courses, if it nament and this was won by Calum "The media is not interested unless it was a big name to ask who was the real Todd and Parker Smith. Bob is a big name," said David. architect also to ask the cost of con- Buckingham, of Toro, presented the Age: 35 He added that it was different in struction. prizes.

1. How long have you been a green keeper? Eight years New team recruited at Barenbrug Southern 2. What education are you dealership for currently undertaking? None John Deere 3. Which one task do you Bristol based BS Mowers has most enjoy doing? been appointed to sell John Setting up the course for a big competition Deere's full range of professional and golf and turf equipment to golf clubs. local 4. Which one task do you most dislike doing? authorities and contractors in Strimming Bristol, Bath, north west and north east Somerset, south Gloucestershire and Wiltshire. 5. What job other than greenkeeping might you have ended up doing? Groundsperson/gardener

6. Who has been the biggest influence on your career? Paul Johnson has been promoted to quently became Export Manager, Richard Barker; Head Managing Director of Barenbrug UK, responsible for several new product Greenkeeper at Kirby Muxloe following in the footsteps of Michel releases. Mulder, who has been handed the task Despite extensive experience in turf- 7. What would you do to of running Barnenbrug's North care, Alan's golf is at beginner's level improve the life of a green- American division. and he will look to his new colleagues keeper? Paul was previously in charge of the at Barenbrug for handy tips. Not sur- Improve relations between the agricultural side of the Barenbrug UK prisingly green-fingered considering his greenkeeper and the members but his love and golfing ability should pedigree, Alan is also a keen walker and make him ideally suited to his new cinema-goer. 8. What are your hobbies? role. Darren Wilding is Barenbrug's new Golf, cricket and fishing Alan Lomas has joined the Bury St Area Manager for South Wales and Edmunds-based company as Sales southern England. A Turfgrass Science 9. What do you get out of And Marketing Manager. His depth of graduate of Myerscough College, he BIGGA? experience is seen as a great asset to the joins the company from Amenity Land Friendship and education grass seed company's continued Services, where he was a Technical growth. Sales Advisor. 10. What do you hope to be After graduatiori, Alan's working life Darren has also had two spells at The doing in 10 years time? began in the Middle East, principally Royal Lytham and St Anne's Golf Still enjoying life Saudi Arabia. On his return to the UK, Club. Before college there was three Alan joined Fisons Horticulture years part-time work for the Senior Division and remained with the com- Tour; after, Darren spent a year as full- pany during its transition, in 1994, to time greenkeeper, helping to prepare Levington Horticulture. He subse- the course for the Open.

8 Greenkeeper International January 1999 New 1999 Golf Championship Eco-Unit for STRI

STRI have established an Ecology Research Unit in response to the growing need for research into areas where sports and amenity turf science and golf in particular overlap with ecological interests. The new unit will form part of the Turfgrass Biology and Environmental Science Division led by Dr Andy Newell. STRI's senior Ecologist, Bob Taylor will act as consultant and a member of the cultivar research team, Jonathan Hart-Wood, will be responsible for the day to day running of the unit as Research Co- ordinator. Current projects being undertaken by the new unit include an ecological lawn research study for DLF Trifolium (Danish Plant Breeding), which is monitoring the effects of clover on the appearance and persistence of grass species managed for low input lawn uses. Also, scheduled will be a study of heather on UK golf courses. Emphasis will be given to evaluat- ing the distribution of heather and golfers perceptions to heather The Charterhouse/Scotts Golf include accommodation at the four of Charterhouse, said, "Charterhouse as a feature or hazard on golf Championship is an exciting new star Carden Park Hotel, meals and view this as a wonderful opportunity courses. Management practices event open to all members of the golf fees to support the Association and will also be investigated. This Association the final of which will be Neil Thomas said, "The Association receive national coverage in the most major project is being funded by played at Carden Park Hotel Golf is delighted that it once again has a positive light. We look forward to the R&A. Golf Clubs wishing to Resort and Spa, near Chester on 3 to high profile golf tournament for its meeting greenkeepers at Section be included should contact 5 October. members. Charterhouse and Scotts events as well as at Carden Park." Jonathan Hart-Woods, Research The overall winner will receive the are both Golden Key sponsors and Carden Park recently opened The Co-ordinator for the new Ecology coveted BIGGA Challenge Trophy long term supporters of the Nicklaus course to complement its Research Unit. while there will also be a Regional tro- Association and we look forward to already well established Cheshire Jonathan Hart-Woods has taken phy competed for by the Section working closely with two such well Course and the venue, magnificently over the new role of Research Co- qualifiers in each Region. established companies." managed by Master Greenkeeper ordinator for STRI's new Ecology The agreement was finally struck at BIGGA Chairman, Gordon Child, Andy Campbell, is one of an increas- Research Unit. Jonathan will be The Reform Club in London's Pall commented, "This will be a festival of ing number of British courses which responsible for the day to day run- Mall between David Jenkins, of golf played among members of the has gone "spikeless". This fits nicely ning and co-ordination of the new Redexim Charterhouse, Richard Association from far afield at a venue with BIGGA's other supporting spon- unit. Minton, of Scotts Turf and Amenity, fit to host such a prestigious event." sor for the Tournament, Softspikes, Jonathan joined STRI in April and Neil Thomas, of BIGGA. Richard Minton, who was involved who will be providing cleats to all of 1996 as a research officer for the To ensure the event is representative for many years with the Association's the players playing in the final and Cultivar Evaluation programme. of the Association nationally, the win- National Tournament, said, "Scotts offering their services at the qualify- However more recently his enthu- ning gross and net players from each are delighted to be sponsoring this ing section events as required. siasm and interest in natural sci- of BIGGA's 28 Section Spring Championship. BIGGA has needed The Championship will be ence have involved him working Outings will win a free place in the an event that brings together the best launched officially at BTME 99. more closely with Bob Taylor in final, which will include accommoda- players in the Association to play for Further details are available on STRI's Ecology Section. tion, meals and golf fees. Places are the ultimate prize of bein^ the request from the tournament admin- also available to anyone wishing to Association's Champion golfer." istrator who will be Sarah Sowerby at pay an entry fee of £95 which will David Jenkins, Managing Director BIGGA HOUSE, tel: 01347 833800. Colour blind apology

Despite what it may have appeared from the college listings which appeared in last month's issue of Greenkeeper International we would like to point out that Merrist Wood is a GTC approved college. Unfortunately the Surrey College appeared in the wrong colour, and we can assure all potential students that the College is GTC approved to offer Craft, Supervisory and Management Levels. We apologise to the College for any embarrassment caused by the error. South West/ South Wales seminar success Honours for Brian Gilbert

Over 120 people attended the South At the December meeting of the therefore awarded only the third "He has been BIGGA's link with West and South Wales Regional Board of Management members Honorary Membership in BIGGA's the R&A and the excellent rela- Seminar at Cannington College spon- were informed of Brian Gilbert's history to Mr Gilbert. following tionship between the two bodies sored by Roffey Bros and Supaturf decision to step down as a awards to Viscount Whitelaw and owes much to his influence. He recently Guardian of the Association. MrJim Fry. has been a guiding light in the The speakers included Ian McMillan, Mr Gilbert has served on the Neil Thomas. BIGGA's Executive financing and building of BIGGA of Hankley Common, who spoke on BIGGA Board of Management as Director commented: "This is a HOUSE and his decision to step his year of achievement in '97; John the R&A representative, and pro- much merited award. Brian's down comes at a time when this Mullins, of Supaturf, who delivered a vided advice and guidance to advice on many aspects of major project has come to paper of water management; Tony BIGGA on finance and adminis- BIGGA's affairs and development fruition. Rees, on Health and Safety; Phil tration matters. since 1990. has been instrumental in the ''At a personal level he has been a Greenway, of Roffeys, spoke on top BIGGA's Constitution enables the progress we have made as an great help to me with his busi- dressings while Dave Phillips gave a talk Board of Management to award Association. ness and financial expertise which on seed selection and its implications. Honorary Membership to any per- "It has always been given in his has greatly advanced the Frank Newberry gave an inspirational son recognised as having con- quiet, unobtrusive manner and he Association. talk and workshop on "Making the tributed in an outstanding manner has gained the respect of all who "I am delighted with this award to committee work for you". to the Association or profession. have consulted with him on a most deserving recipient," said The day was chaired by Ivor Scoones. The Board of Management has BIGGA matters. Neil. A BIGGA Building Fund thank you

BIGGAwould like to take this final opportunity to thank the many golf clubs who contributed to the Association's Building Fund.

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JOHN GREASLEY LIMITED 1154 MELTON ROAD· "ASHFIELD HOUSE"· SYSTON. LEICESTER. LE7 2HB

Telephone: 0116 269 6766 Mobile: 0836 553899 Fax: 0116 269 6866

10 Greenkeeper International January 1999 Spring 1999

Less pressure, more action

relleborg is a world leader in the manu- facture and supply of specialist low Trelleborg tyres provide the Tground pressure tyres and matching rims capacity to maintain a consistently for farm, forestry and industrial applications. high mowing performance across all The company is now striving to achieve sim- turf areas in all conditions. They ilar status within the turf and grounds mainte- ensure that the mower always has nance industry where interest in wide, low sufficient grip to work successfully and ground pressure tyres is growing rapidly, safely across flat or sloping ground in dry or damp conditions without reflecting the demand for surfaces of a consis- marking of the turf. They are also hard tently high standard to be provided throughout wearing, making them ideal for use on the year. and off road. ^ ^ Recognising that prevention is always better and more cost-effective than the cure, those Hayter charged with looking after golf courses, sports grounds, stadia, parks, gardens and recreation areas are increasingly specifying purpose- designed wide section tyres for their tractors, To ensure optimum efficiency and trailers and wheeled equipment. minimal turf impact, tractors and By spreading the load across a greater con- associated groundscare machinery need tact area, wide, low profile tyres exert far less to befitted with tyres capable of handling downforce on the turf than standard tyres, the widest possible range of conditions and applications. For these reasons, John reducing the risk of marking the surface and Deere UK has appointed Trelleborg as its compacting the soil structure below. The bene- official supplier of turf tyres. We can fits to the turf include improved movement of recommend Trelleborg tyres without oxygen and water, better root growth and a reservation to all turf professionals. J J reduced need for costly remedial action. John Deere ADVANTAGE There is another advantage to wide tyres. Having a greater internal volume than a standard tyre they hold more air and can be inflat- We fit Trelleborg tyres to the ed to lower pressures to support the same TMll trailed vacuum collector because weight. they enable the machine to keep This has an important bearing on tyre life. working in most conditions without The higher the inflation pressure, the greater marking. An important application are the forces on the tyre and the shorter will for the TMll is on turf farms where it be its life. This is particularly noticeable on is used to collect and remove grass standard tyres engaged on a large amount of clippings. It is most important that the road work. vacuum leaves no wheel marks. The first extra-wide low ground pressure By fitting Trelleborgs, that requirement tyres used within the grounds and turf mainte- is virtually guaranteed. ^ l| nance industry were developed initially for Turfmech Machinery forestry and agriculture. As demand has increased from turf professionals, so Trelleborg has responded by devel- ^ |j| Greenkeepers and groundstaff want oping tyres which combine a wide contact area grass-cutting equipment that performs with high durability, and have tread patterns effectively, reliably and economically which deliver superb grip without damaging without causing worries about turf valuable turf (see back page for more details). damage or compaction. That is why we Growing end-user demand for specialist work closely with Trelleborg to ensure wide tyres has been recognised also by tractor that our mowers are shod with the most and equipment suppliers, with many now spec- effective tyres for the job and the ifying Trelleborgs as their preferred fitting on conditions. They take pressure off turf machines used for turf and grounds care. and provide excellent grip without So, why do they select Trelleborg? To the marking. ^ ^ right are comments from four leading suppliers of turf machinery. Textron Turf Care and Specialty Products Spreading the load helps Now fitted to more than half of Rolawn's tractor fleet, Trelleborg tyres have extend working season proved ideal for jobs ranging from turf harvesting to seedbed cultivation. itting Trelleborg tyres to all Philip Matchwick. "It gives good Fprincipal wheeled machinery grip on muddy tracks and roads has given White Horse yet has minimum impact on fine Contractors the ability to contin- turf. It used to be virtually impos- ue working all-year-round on golf sible to take a backacter loader course, sportsfield and amenity onto a golf course when the construction and drainage pro- weather turned wet. Now, the jects throughout Britain. JCBs can move to wherever they Previously, the company's are needed and the greenkeepers operating season normally ran rarely bat an eyelid." from April to late October when To emphasise the importance the onset of wetter, colder weath- of Trelleborg tyres within White er prevented equipment from Horse Contractors' operations, working comfortably on turf. Philip said that the company has

Despite soft conditions underfoot, drainage works continue thanks to the fitting of Trelleborgs on all wheeled equipment.

urope's largest producer of quality cultivated turf runs one of the biggest fleets of Trelleborg-equipped "Conditions simply made it bought a spare set of rims com- Etractors in Britain. impossible for normal tyres to plete with TWIN 404 tyres. These In 1982, Rolawn used five tractors fitted with a variety of move across finer turf areas with- are kept ready for fitting to any grassland and agricultural tyres on its turf farms. These out causing damage," explained hired-in dumper which might be plant manager, Philip Matchwick. required on a sportsfield or golf tyres needed to be interchanged regularly to suit the differ- "The use of wide, low ground course project. ent field operations within the turf production cycle. pressure Trelleborgs has trans- "It is important that all of our Today, with some 2,000 acres in production at any one formed operations. Although equipment is able to move freely time, the company runs 50 tractors, of which approximate- there are still times when it is too on turf without marking or dam- ly 30 are equipped with Trelleborg TWIN 404 tyres. wet or frosty to risk driving on age. Trelleborgs give us that "This specific design combines low ground pressure with turf, the tyres have extended the capacity in virtually all condi- season significantly, enabling our tions." excellent grip, enabling tractors to be used successfully for drainage and construction teams to remain on site for more of the year. This has boosted cost efficiency and allowed contracts to be completed faster and more effectively." On top, on turf First fitted in the early 1990s Trelleborg low ground pressure tyres have been fitted to by White Horse Contractors to tractors used by Hewitt Sportsturf for sportsground con- JCB dump trucks used on wet- struction, drainage, renovation and maintenance for land projects and for lake and almost 20 years. reservoir construction, Trelleborg Currently, the company runs 14 MF tractors in the 80 tyres have been introduced to 90hp class, the majority of which are fitted with steadily over the past seven years Trelleborgs front and rear to minimise turf compaction to other machines in the compa- and the risk of marking or damage to fine sports turf. ny's fleet. Among the major projects undertaken by Hewitt Today, Trelleborg TWIN 404 Sportsturf, which is based at Cosby, near Leicester, are tyres are fitted to three JCB 2CX pitch reconstruction and installation of under-soil heating and drainage systems for a number of well- backacter loaders, two Thwaites known Premier and 1st Division football clubs. dumpers and three purpose-built Hewitt Sportsturf also provides a full range of related services including sand slitting, overseeding, self-propelled sand and gravel fertilising, top dressing, verti-draining, turf aeration and weed control - all tasks which demand a sure, hoppers. yet light tread. The MF6130 two-wheel drive tractor shown at work above left is fitted with Trelleborg "We find this tyre ideal for all TWIN 404 tyres at the rear and TWIN 443 tyres on the front. our applications," commented Staying the course

sk Gil Gilford, head become stuck in wet ground and kgroundsman at Ascot that is one of the reasons I speci- Racecourse, what he thinks about fied 95hp Renault Cergos trac- Trelleborg low ground pressure tors fitted with Trelleborg tyres tyres and his response is immedi- when replacing our two main ate: "I wouldn't buy a tractor tractors in March 1998. You need without them for use on a race- plenty of power and grip when course." shifting a coach. We used to hire- And his reasons? "They're in tractors for the job, but they long lasting, they stay on top of had standard tyres which made the ground and they allow work quite a mess. No such problem to continue for 52 weeks of the with Trelleborgs." year without marking," he says. Towing aside, the Renaults are "There are very few occasions used for virtually all of the main- when the conditions are too wet tenance work carried out on or too soft for a tractor on Ascot's flat, hurdle and steeple- Trelleborgs. In my opinion, chase courses, which are laid out they're essential on any tractor alongside one other, each mea- which needs to work on fine turf suring around a mile and six fur- throughout the year." longs. Gil has been responsible for "In the summer months, we the whole of Ascot's outside are mowing most days," estate since March 1996. The explained Gil. "The tractors are total area is around 300 acres and used also for verti-draining, fer- includes the world-renowned tiliser spreading and for ring- racecourse, the paddock and 200 rolling the race course after a stables, an 18 hole golf course, meeting, helping firm back div- cricket ground and associated ots. buildings, fences and roads. He "Our policy now is to use the turf harvesting, mowing or cultivating without needing has a team of 14 groundstaff to Renaults for every maintenance their tyres changed," commented Rolawn's general farm help look after the racecourse, job which involves driving on turf. manager, Guy Barrett. "As a result, we are saving valuable plus three golf greenkeepers and Quite simply, the Trelleborg tyres time and maintaining production continuity." a stable manager. ensure that the tractors can keep Founded in 1975 and based at Elvington, near York, Racing takes place at Ascot working without damaging or Rolawn is a family business which has become the largest from January to December. In marking the course, essential if and best-known turf supplier in Britain, if not Europe. The 1998, the course hosted nine we are to present a consistently company currently produces five principal turf grades National Hunt and 15 flat meet- firm, level and even surface for which are supplied from a nation-wide depot network to ings. The big week of the year - racing." landscape architects and contractors, the golf course indus- Royal Ascot - sees five continu- try, local authorities, construction firms and home owners, ous days of racing in mid June. "Even then we can't guarantee Below: Trelleborg TWIN 404 tyres keep either collected by customers or delivered direct to site. big tractors on top of the course, even The company's introduction to Trelleborg tyres followed the weather," commented Gil. "Coaches have been known to in soft going. a recommendation by a local tyre agent who said that they were the best in the industry. Having taken the decision to switch to Trelleborgs, Guy Barrett said usage had increased steadily as the tractor fleet had expanded, mirroring the growth in the turf acreage being produced by Rolawn in the Vale of York. "Wide low ground pressure tyres minimise turf damage and wheel markings, enabling production and harvesting to continue all-year-round to meet rising customer demand," commented Mr Barrett. "However, we also need good grip for operations such as ploughing and cultivating. Trelleborg TWIN 404 tyres give us that dual capability, allowing tractors to move straight from one job to another without stop- ping. "Although the tyre may cost more, we have been very impressed with its durability and long life. They are an inte- gral and important part of Rolawn's turf-growing operations." Trelleborg's new Industrial T459 tractor tyre is equally suited to work on grass or on the road.

necessary, on playing fields, able to deliver good grip, yet with a lighter touch than cleated agricultural tyres. "I asked dealer, Sussex Tractors, if such a tyre existed," recalled Chris Bruce. "They recommended Trelleborg's new 70-profile T459 tyre and we ordered the tractor with the tyres fitted all-round." Suitable for use on standard rims, the tyre features Trelleborg's renowned bias belt design which combines the best features of radial and cross ply construction. It also has a polyster carcase to enhance ride comfort and highly durable rubber compound in the tread area. Good on road and good on turf "The tyres have greatly improved the tractor's flexibility," commented Mr Bruce. uildford Borough Council's verges and ditches. "They are hard wearing, are good on the Ground Maintenance Services divi- "Our contract covers a mix of urban and road and have the grip to deal with slippery Gsion was the first contract organisa- rural locations, some requiring a round trip conditions. However, they are sufficiently tion in Britain to invest in a full set of of 20 miles or more from base," explained gentle to be used where we would never Trelleborg's newly-introduced industrial Mr Bruce. "This had caused high wear to have gone previously with normal agricul- tractor tyres with their distinctive T459 the tyres fitted to the previous tractor and I tural tyres." tread pattern. wanted a more versatile, harder-wearing Specified by division manager, Chris tyre on its replacement." For detailed information on Bruce, the tyres are fitted to a 75hp Ford To match the new tractor's general-pur- Trelleborg Industrial Tractor Tyres, please New Holland 5635 tractor which is used for pose role, Mr Bruce said that he also want- contact the sales department at the jobs such as flail mowing, trailer hauling, ed a tyre which could be used with equal address given below. leaf collecting and side-arm flail cutting of success on the road, on grass verges and, if

Tyres matched to the job TWIN 409 This familiar diamond-patterned tyre has a tread depth of just 18mm, making it Trelleborg produce low ground pressure tyres in three distinct ideal for use on all turf areas where a patterns for use on sports and amenity turf and other green areas. "soft" tread is essential. Round Known as TWIN GT EWR (Extra Wear Resistance), the tyres shouldered to minimise scuffing when share a number of common characteristics despite having totally turning, the T409 has a soft compound different tread patterns. rubber and a very flexible carcass. It First is the EWR rating. This shows that it is the latest can be run at pressures as low as 6psi improved version of the original Trelleborg TWIN GT tyre, with (0.4 bar) depending on application and new EWR rubber compound in the tread area to extend working load. Mainly used on tractor rear wheels life without sacrificing flexibility or gentleness on the ground. and large trailers. All three tyres have an extra large ground contact area. This feature, combined with a soft, flexible carcass and low inflation pressure, enables the tyre to follow the ground closely leaving no TWIN 478 marks and minimising soil compaction. Despite their flexibility, Trelleborg TWIN tyres are built for long life. Their bias belt construction combines the best of radial A 10mm tread depth and closely-spaced, and cross ply design, offering strength, lateral stability and driver zig-zag tread give the T478 excellent comfort. non-marking properties when used on the front wheels of two-wheel drive Customers can choose from three distinct TWIN GT EWR tractors and trailers. The flat tread tread patterns to suit individual machines and applications: profile with rounded shoulders provide excellent lateral stability and a wide, load-spreading contact area. The tread TWIN 404 design aids grip on and off road and provides resistance to sideslip. Ideal for work on all turf surfaces, this versatile low ground pressure tyre has rounded shoulders to prevent marking when turning and broad, yet closely-spaced tread bars to provide good grip with minimal Trelleborg Wheel Systems SpA surface impact, the latter enhanced Maybrook Road by the 20mm tread depth. The T404 Castle Vale Industrial Estate has very low rolling resistance and is Minworth intended primarily for use on tractor Sutton Coldfield B76 1AX, UK Tel: 0845 601 1084 front and rear wheels. Fax: 0121 352 3845