Make 2010 a Good Year

Greenkeeper International GI JANUARY 2010

Inside... AInside... Rookie’s Guide to Featured Inside HarrogateFocus on Week firstFungicides-time goers get the lowdown onDr this Terry m onMabbutth’s exhibition MAtch made gets technical in heaven The Unseen Finca Cortesin is Irrigation this month’s Golf System Course Feature Irrigation matters uncovered Horses (and Tennis) for Courses Epsom and Wimbledon under the radar

Make 2010 X a Good Year We look to the year ahead with a double-feature on how to maintain golf club standards Don’t miss the Doe Show Golden Jubilee

2nd, 3rd, 4th February 2010 at Ulting, Maldon CM9 6QH Join the Doe Show Gold Rush By far the largest Agricultural, Construction and Groundcare The show will feature 50 extra special offers Dealer Show in the UK See the Ultra Eco-Friendly for the Golden Jubilee • over 150 trade stands New Holland NH2 special hydrogen powered tractor • used machinery bargains • shop soiled and ex-demonstration machinery at ‘to sell’ prices • working demonstrations ? • large indoor display of ancillary products • parts and showroom offers Gold Case IH Maxxum Tractor to be auctioned by sealed bid. • catering facilities Entries close 28 Feb 2010 SAT NAV CM9 6QH

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www.ernestdoe.com Where you can buy with confidence Welcome from the editor BIGGA

President Sir Michael Bonallack, OBE

Board of Management Chairman – Peter Todd Vice Chairman Paul Worster Past Chairman Kenny Mackay

Board Members Jeff Mills, Gary Cunningham, Archie Dunn, Ian Willett, Tony Smith, Elliott Small, Mark Dobell

Chief Executive John Pemberton [email protected]

Head of Learning & Development Sami Collins [email protected]

Head of Membership Department Tracey Maddison [email protected]

Contact Us BIGGA HOUSE, Aldwark, Alne, York, YO61 1UF [email protected] www.bigga.org.uk Tel – 01347 833800 | Fax – 01347 833801

Greenkeeper International

The official monthly magazine of the British & International Golf Greenkeepers Association Limited.

Editorial

Communications Manager / Editor Scott MacCallum 20/20 Vision Tel – 01347 833800 Fax – 01347 833801 [email protected]

Design As we enter a brand new decade – yes, Some of the information may be things Design and Production Editor I’m aware of the old argument about you are already doing, or not relevant to your Tom Campbell how technically it begins in the year place of work, but even if there is one thing Tel – 01347 833800 ending in one, but our Millenium that can help you it will make life that little bit Fax – 01347 833801 [email protected] celebrations started on the evening of easier. Dec 31, 1999, not Dec 31, 2000, didn’t Don’t discount advice from any source. Advertising they? – and as well as wondering what But back to the year 2020. Sales Executive we have done with the last 10 years I certainly don’t have 20/20 vision, but I do Kirstin Smith of our lives, it makes you wonder just know that some of what will be commonplace Tel – 01347 833800 in 10 years’ time will seem truly mind Fax – 01347 833802 where we will all be in January 2020. [email protected] On one hand the last 10 have gone in the boggling now. blink of an eye but really it’s remarkable just Progress doesn’t slow down as we move Sales Executive how much has happened since Jan 1, 2000. forward – it gathers pace and I suspect we’ve Jill Rodham A mere 10 years ago we hadn’t even heard all be travelling to work on environmentally- Tel – 01347 833800 friendly jet powered hover boards; have entire Fax – 01347 833802 of the iPhone or Facebook, or Usain Bolt [email protected] or Barack Obama, while Tiger Woods was cities housed under glass domes to protect known only for his golfing exploits. us from damaging rays, and be hitting the In the big wide world, 9/11 and the golf ball shorter distances to preserve the Printing subsequent military conflicts; the tsunami; relevance of our top golf courses. Warners Midlands Plc, The Maltings, Manor You guys may not have your current Lane, Bourne, Lincolnshire PE10 9PH the death of Michaael Jackson and the Tel – 01778 391000 | Fax – 01778 394269 demise of Woolies were all still ahead of us. armoury of chemicals to fight disease but new versions will come on board, while grass Contents may not be reprinted or otherwise No-one could have predicted the volatility of reproduced without written permission. Return the world economy two years ago, never mind breeders will be closer to the Holy Grail postage must accompany all materials submitted of slow growing, disease resistant, shade if return is requested. No responsibility can be 10 years ago, and there can be no disguising assumed for unsolicited materials. The right is the impact that has had on golf. resistant, thin leafed swards. reserved to edit submissions before publication. Although every care will be taken, no However, the game will survive and those Nostradamus I am not, but, you never responsibility is accepted for loss of manuscripts, know, I might just have got something right. photographs or artwork. Opinions expressed clubs which get their priorities right and are not necessarily those of the Association, continue to invest in their greatest asset will I’m excited about the thought that it might and no responsibility is accepted for such the bit about environmentally-friendly jet content, advertising or product information be successful, while sport in general - with that may appear. Circulation is by subscription. the Olympics, Commonweath Games and, powered hover boards. You never know! Subscription rate: UK £50 per year, Europe and I hope you find a way through any Eire £65, Rest of the World £95. The magazine is possibly, the World Cup all gracing these also distributed to BIGGA members, golf clubs, shores in the next decade - will gain a difficulties you may be experiencing and go local authorities, the turf industry, libraries and on to have a prosperous 2010. central government. genuine boost over the next 10 years. It’s just a case of finding a way through this Best wishes. particularly difficult spell and this month we include an article with contributions from Les Howkins MG and Ian Henderson which is designed to offer advice on how to make a lot

JANUARY 2010 GI 3 CONTENTS GI A look at what’s inside the magazine this month

Feature JANUARY 2010 17 Make 2010 FEATURES a Good Year

Those within the golf industry are under no illusion that 2010 is going to be a difficult year… but not impossible. As the year gets under way financial expert, Ian Henderson, and Master Greenkeeper, Les Howkins, give some excellent advice that 17 Make 2010 might help golf clubs through this sticky period. a Good Year Keep it Simple: Les Howkins MG, of Richmond Golf Club, offers some advice on improving the course without breaking the bank. Loads of Money: Ian Henderson looks at ways in which golf clubs can reduce costs and maximise income.

25 Match Made In Heaven Photograph of Hankley Common, taken by Gareth roberts

GI GI Mark Alexander visits the new 18 JANUARY 2010 JANUARY 2010 19

home of the World Matchplay GI_JAN_10.indd 18-19 18/12/09 14:45:47 Championship, at Finca Cortesin, in Spain.

32 The Anatomy of… a Greens Mower James de Havilland launches a new series taking a serious look at the workings of everyday machinery.

37 A Rookie’s Guide to Harrogate Week Scott MacCallum gives some 32 37 advice to Harrogate Week novices on how to make the most of their time.

41 Troublesome turf weeds in South Australia Dr Terry Mabbutt travels to the other side of the world in his search for exciting new turf weeds.

48 Getting Back to the Cutting Edge Jonathan Knowles asks the question “Is greenkeeping horticulture, agriculture or ecology?” 41 48

4 GI JANUARY 2010 25

REGULARS GREENKEEPER 6 Newsdesk GI INTERNATIONAL 12 Chairman’s Word JANUARY2010

13 GTC Inside... 14 L&D AInside... Rookie’s Guide to HarrogateFocus on Week Featured Inside 15 Industry Update FIRST-TIMEFungicides GOERS GET THE LOWDOWN ONDr THIS Terry MONTH’S Mabbut EXHIBITION MATCH MADE gets technical IN HEAVEN 52 Quick Guide to… The Unseen Finca Cortesin is Irrigation this month’s Golf Line Marking System Course Feature Irrigation matters 53 New Products uncovered Horses 6 56 Around the Green (and Tennis) for Courses Epsom and 59 Chief Executive’ Wimbledon under the radar 63 Diary of Events New Feature 64 Membership Make 2010 X 65 Assistant Profile a Good Year 65 What’s Your We look to the year ahead with a double-feature on how to Number? maintain golf club standards 66 In the Shed

GI_JAN_10.indd 1 67 Health and Safety 18/12/09 15:08:07 – with Xact TheThe official official monthlymonthly magazinemagazine of of 74 Soapbox the British & International Golf – Jonathan Smith the British & International Golf GreenkeepersGreenkeepers Association Association Limited. Limited. Cover Photograph of Hankley Common, 52 taken by Course Manager, Gareth Roberts

JANUARY 2010 GI 5 NEWSDESK GI The latest news from around the globe “There it goes..!”

Don Wales, the nephew of multiple place at this Pendine Sands in world speed record holder, Donald Wales early next year and was Campbell, will be at the controls of announced at the National Motor the attempt which aims to propel a Museum in Beaulieu. lawnmower at speeds in excess of At 100mph, the machine would 100mph. cover 147ft per second, covering the Project Runningblade aims to target mile in less than 36 seconds. smash the current record set by The Runningblade team has Bob Cleveland from the United worked with Countax and is hoping States of 80.792mph at Bonneville to raise funds and awareness for Salt Flats in 2006. Great Ormond Street Hospital and The attempt is planned to take Wessex Heartbeat.

Apprenticeship Framework For Horticultural Businesses Approved Lantra, has announced that a new Level 2 up-to-date to meet the changing needs by the horticultural industry as they meet and a revised Level 3 Modern Apprentice- of industry professionals. Following the need identified by the industry for a ship framework for horticultural this review, a new Level 2 Modern Level 2 Modern Apprenticeship. businesses have been approved by the Apprenticeship (Scottish Credit and To view or download the new Modern Apprenticeship Group (MAG) and Qualifications Framework Level 5) in modern apprenticeship frameworks in are now available to use in Scotland. horticulture has been developed and the horticulture, please visit http://www. Over the past year, Lantra has Level 3 framework (SCQF Level 6) revised. lantra.co.uk/apprenticeship-framework- undertaken an extensive consultation The new Level 2 Modern Apprenticeship documents/. To find out more about the with horticultural businesses, other (SCQF Level 5) in horticulture is the modern apprenticeship programme or to industry professionals and training first framework at this level to be made see the upcoming schedule of framework providers to review industry’s available in the environmental and reviews, please visit: requirements for Modern Apprenticeships land-based sector in Scotland. The new www.lantra.co.uk/apprenticeships and ensure they are kept relevant and frameworks have been widely welcomed or call 0845 707 8007.

6 GI JANUARY 2010 Disciplinary and Grievance Procedures

From last April the ACAS Code of Practice on disciplinary and grievances procedures applies to the workplace dispute resolution framework. The ACAS statutory Code of Practice on discipline and grievance provides basic practical guidance to employers, employees and their representatives and sets out principles for handling disciplinary and grievance situations in the workplace. The Code is issued under section 199 of the Trade Union and Architects Appointed by Emirates Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act Thomson Perrett & Lobb, the to Dubai Golf, who oversaw Rod added: “We are not 1992. golf course architecture practice construction of Emirates Golf Club redesigning the course and not A failure to follow founded by five-times Open 22 years ago, said: “We selected adding additional bunkers to the Code does not, in Champion, Peter Thomson, has TPL to oversee the modernisation the course, but we are looking itself, make a person been appointed by Emirates Golf of the Majlis Course because of its at relocating, reshaping and or organisation liable Club to modernise its flagship experience in designing prestige reconstructing the bunkers we do to proceedings. Majlis Course, home of the Dubai golf courses in the Middle East and have to bring the course up to the However, Desert Classic. its expertise in bunkering. highest modern standards, as well employment tribunals TPL will carry out an audit of “Our bunkers are out of date and, as making some improvements to will take the Code the course’s bunkering as part of a due to modern equipment, out of the aesthetics of the course.” The into account when wider modernisation programme, play. Some of the players are hitting new look course will be in play for considering relevant overseeing the repositioning and the ball 60 or 70 yards past the the Dubai Desert Classic in 2011. cases. reconstruction of bunkers to fairway bunkers during the Dubai Pictured (from left): Andrew For full details upgrade the course for professional Desert Classic. While that is only one Goosen (TPL), Rod Bogg of the Acas Code events, including the Dubai Desert week of the year, we need to ensure (Dubai Golf), Tim Lobb (TPL), of Practice and to Classic and Dubai Ladies Masters, that the course remains the enjoyable Craig Haldane (Golf Course download a free copy, and day-to-day club and visitor play. challenge that it is for professionals Superintendent), Chris May go to: Rod Bogg, Special Advisor and amateurs all year round.” (General Manager, Dubai Golf) www.acas .org.uk/drr

Scottish Region Conference New Appointment The 2010 BIGGA Scottish Region Conference will take place at the Carnegie Conference Centre, Carnegie College, Dunfermline on SISIS has appointment Tuesday, March 2. of Ewen Wilson as Export Speakers include Richard Windows and Henry Bechelet, from the Sales Manager to replace STRI, and Greg Evans, Course Manager, at Ealing Golf Club. David Harrison. Other speakers include Gordon McKie, Course Manager, Old Ewen has worked for the Course, St.Andrews Links; Lee Strutt, Course Manager, GWest, Company for 26 years as Gleneagles, and finally, Paul Kimber, Golf Course Architect. demonstrator in Scotland Tickets cost £35, which includes tea/coffee on arrival, coffee/ and Northern Ireland and, pastry at the mid morning break and buffet lunch. in addition, has undertaken Full details and booking forms will be posted to all members in many demonstration trips Scotland and further forms can be obtained by contacting Peter J overseas. Boyd, Regional Administrator, Tel: 0141 616 3440 or [email protected] Please email your news items to the editor, Scott MacCallum: [email protected]

JANUARY 2010 GI 7 GI NEWSDESK

Trump Appoints Keep on Running Golf Course Superintendent

After more than 18 years at Carnoustie, Assistant Superintendent, Paul O’Connor, has been appointed Links Sunningdale’s staff showed runners doing a leg which Greenkeepers, General Superintendent for the new that they were a fit bunch by consisted of 2.7 miles! The Manager and Food and Trump International Golf Links. running in support of Children initially idea was to have ten Beverage servers. “Paul is highly respected and in Need 2009. runners to cover the distance “Members provided the is known to be one of the best The run took place over but the response was so good sponsorship and the total is in his field. His years of training two routes on the Old and we covered a lot more miles!” well above £500. and experience at Carnoustie New courses, starting at the said Course Manager, Murray “It went so well that maybe made him an obvious choice for clubhouse, with all runners Long. next time we will look at this appointment. He is a very going at the same time when a Runners consisted of all expanding it to include other important addition to my team,” rocket was set off! members of staff from the clubs to raise more money said Donald Trump. “The idea was to complete Secretary, Courses Manager, for this worthy cause,” said Paul was delighted by his new a marathon distance with all Head Greenkeepers, Assistant Murray. role. “I enjoyed 18 years at Carnoustie and understand the high standards required of a Sheer Lunacy... leading championship course. I am extremely proud to be involved in the construction and development of what will be the finest links course ever built - it is a privilege to work for Mr Trump on this spectacular terrain.” Studying greenkeeping at Elmwood College in the early 90s, while working as an apprentice greenkeeper at Carnoustie, Paul quickly rose to the position of Head Greenkeeper under John Philip. “During The 2007 Open Championship he led the greenkeeping team to prepare what was widely regarded as the best conditioned Open Venue of all time. His attention to detail, passion for the job and knowledge of links golf sets him apart; he will be a significant asset to the management team at Balmedie,” said Ian McClements, of the STRI. Paul has also advised on other international championship courses overseas, and has a golf This man would have fallen foul of the Health and Safety executive if it had been in this country. The Daily Mail featured this unusual attempt to cut a hedge. handicap of 3.

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JANUARY 2010 GI 9 GI NEWSDESK London to Paris via Bicycle All for a Good Cause!

CAMPEY MAN Campey Turfcare Systems has appointed David Harrison as Export Sales Manager. David is already very well known in the industry through his long career with SISIS and brings a wealth of experience and global industry knowledge to his new post. David will be responsible for developing further growth in sales throughout the European and world markets where Campey Turfcare Systems are currently operating, as well as introducing a whole range of products into new markets in the Middle East and Asia. His Mandy Caton, Sales the same time, I know it’ll be and buying every sort of appointment is also an integral Administrator at Campey an unforgettable experience,” garment I can with gel in it! part of the extension of the Turf Care Systems, will face said Mandy, who has been “One of my good friends Imants distributorship. the biggest challenge of her with Campeys for seven years. had breast cancer two years “We are at a very exciting life next Spring when she “It’s a long way and I’ve ago and is now in remission stage in the expansion plans attempts to cycle from London never done anything like this thankfully. It seems that of the company and David to Paris to raise money for the before, but I’m determined to most people you speak to will play a central part in that Breast Cancer Campaign. raise as much money as I can know someone who has been future strategy. There is a huge In just four days in May, for the charity. affected by it in some way.” challenge ahead; one that he she’ll cover 300 miles in the “I’m doing lots of preparation To sponsor Mandy visit: is extremely well qualified to company of 70 other riders. by cycling locally, going to www.justgiving.com/mandy- take on,” said Richard Campey, “I’m terrified, but excited at spinning classes at the gym caton. Managing Director of Campey. “His expertise, professionalism and dedication to the industry have been New Man for Aitkens demonstrated throughout his association with the Aitkens Sportsturf has appointed Paul Emmanuel groundscare industry. We are as an additional new technical representative for the extremely pleased that he has Yorkshire area. Australian Paul has been a greenkeeper accepted this position and at Harrogate Golf Club for over six years and before that consider him a valuable and was a groundsman at two cricket clubs in the Harrogate important asset to the team.” area. He has been a regional finalist in the Toro Student David commented on his Greenkeeper of the Year and has also won four titles in the appointment “I am very excited Nidderdale Cricket League for best ground. to be joining the company at Paul’s responsibilities will include extending Aitken’s this time, and looking forward to coverage to golf and sports clubs around Yorkshire. the challenge of expanding the “Paul will be a welcomed addition to our existing business in the export markets representatives to further improve our coverage and establishing Campey and service to our customers,” said Richard Aitken, Turfcare as a global name in the Commercial Director. industry”.

10 GI JANUARY 2010 GI NEWSDESK

South East All Sorts of Sports Seminar

The South East Regional Seminar held at the Reigate Hill Golf Club, in November, was hosted by the Surrey Section of BIGGA. The theme for the day was. The Decade Ahead .What does the next decade hold for Golf Management and Greenkeepers? Over 90 delegates enjoyed excellent presentations given by Tracey Maddison, Head of BIGGA Membership Services; Tim Lobb, Course Architect from Thomson Perrit & Lobb; Martin Ward, Symbio; Mark Hunt, Headland Amenity; Lee Penrose, STRI Ecologist, and Laurence Pithie MG From Turf MasterOne. The day finished with some interesting thoughts for the future during discussions in the Speedcut Contractors has Pace, Speedcut has reshaped The company also carried question and answer session. been busy with a wide variety and reconstructed green out work at Wincanton and The Sussex Section is due to of sportsturf projects – includ- surrounds, tees and bunkers, Market Rasen Racecourses host the Regional Seminar in ing many in the world of golf following last year’s major with their new Gwazae deep November 2010. . . . but also football, rugby, woodland clearance and probe aerator, decompacting cricket and racecourses. construction of three water areas of high impact around Among the more recent storage tanks jumps. Last year Wood Bend at Head for the Sun golf projects have included Also in Surrey at Lingfield Market Rasen was completely Foxhills Golf Club and Resort Park Golf Club Speedcut remodelled to overcome an The CMAE is moving its AGM in Surrey where Speedcut has has completed drainage adverse camber. into Europe for the first time in been using its new BLEC laser on the 17th fairway, while At King’s College School in its history, and partnering with grader to transform old tees. at Sandmartins Golf Club, Surrey, major pitch renovation Club Managers Spain, will be And at Tandridge Golf Wokingham, bunkers have on three football pitches was jointly staging the International Club in Surrey, under been reshaped for lining with carried out and a cricket Club Management Congress at Contracts Manager Barry Sportcrete. square relocated. the Villaitana Wellness Golf & Business Resort, Benidorm, Spain from 14 -17 April. This move reflects the growing Golf and Turf Machinery, the Ransomes Jacobsen dealer number of CMAE members Directorship for Yorkshire, has appointed a well known figure from the outside the UK and Ireland, and turf industry as Sales Director. following feedback received from for Steve Steve Nixon, the former Sales Manager at Bernhard & members asking the Association Co, joins Glen Sawyer and John Passfield on the board at to consider staging business the Mexborough-based company. conferences in attractive tourism He will be responsible for the sales operation across the destinations. company’s recently expanded territory, with particular The CMAE’s aim is to encourage focus on new business generation in the golf sector. club managers, suppliers, During his career at Bernhard’s he spent three years at owners and operators to gather in the company’s facility in southern Florida and six years Benidorm two weeks after Easter as UK and Ireland Sales Manager. Prior to this he spent to discuss issues affecting our seven years in the golf industry as greenkeeper/mechanic industry and share solutions and at golf clubs in South Yorkshire. “Steve has a great ideas to allow clubs to grow and understanding of the golf market, both here in the UK and prosper. across the Atlantic in the USA. He is able to communicate The conference theme is “Lead at all levels and his people skills will certainly be an your Club into the Future.” advantage in his new role. He will be a great asset to For full details of the event the business, especially as we develop in our extended and to register, please visit the territory in North Yorkshire,” said Glen Sawyer. International Congress website: Steve lives in Barnsley, South Yorkshire with his wife www.gheisagolfconsulting.es/ Michelle and their two children, Matthew and Emma- es/infogeneral2 Louise.

JANUARY 2010 GI 11 A little extra care goes into everything we do

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C_685_1_E_210x297.indd 1 10.12.2009 15:23:33 Uhr Chairman’s Word National Chairman, Peter Todd, gives his thoughts for the month

Over the past 12 months we have the economy will drive everyone to adopt seen many factors at play that affect a healthier approach and before making golf and ultimately our livelihoods. decisions ask themselves - is that really The end of the booming economy did not necessary? To my mind this is no bad thing come as a complete surprise to me having for the golf industry and its future. seen a similar pattern in the early 1990’s Helping members to work through the recession when many new clubs suffered. current difficulties by improving their skills This time round the downturn in the that are needed to tackle some of these economy has affected a much broader range challenges is a cornerstone of learning of clubs. Household disposable income to and development. There are numerous spend on leisure is bound to come under opportunities at Harrogate and up and pressure during these hardened times down the country throughout the year and corporate spending on golf is unlikely to brush up your skills and network with to return to previous levels until balance others to discuss these common issues – sheets are rebuilt. sharing problems is a much easier way to The Association is affected by the change find the best solution. Professional, up to in the state of the economy and has already date, experienced greenkeepers will always had to face up to some harsh realities that be in demand from clubs that continue to resulted in the loss of three positions at need the best people available to help their HQ in 2009. Many clubs are no different in businesses develop - so make sure you are having to review their operations and shed one of them. jobs to try and make ends meet including I have often heard the word apathy Learning and Development for All

It is far easier for Course Managers to send some greenkeeping staff. While the politi- mentioned when we ask why some mem- their assistant greenkeepers to regional days cians would have us believe that recovery is bers don’t attend seminars, golf days and in winter and while some assistants may be just round the corner we all know that the Harrogate Week. This is far too general and afforded the opportunity to go to Harrogate ongoing impact of the recession is far from simplistic an answer. Time is undoubtedly a Week it is beyond the pocket of many clubs over. All businesses will have to continue to factor, travelling distances, subject matter/ and often they can’t send multiple members adapt and make changes to remain viable, content of training etc. Thank you to all who of their teams all on the same day. Assistant working through the difficulties, meeting returned the recent learning and develop- greenkeepers rely on their managers to the challenges head on and finding ways to ment survey -your replies will help us to send them on these days and I ask you all to progress. understand and tune courses that meet consider whether your guys are getting the Organisations will emerge leaner, fitter your needs. right opportunities to learn. businesses having stripped out wastage If you didn’t receive the survey by e-mail My year as Chairman draws to a close this and the unaffordable to place themselves then please make sure your e-mail address month – it has been a honour to represent in a stronger position going forward. Many is up to date. E-mail is the most environ- BIGGA both at home and abroad and I look new clubs built in the boom period of the mentally friendly way of communicating forward to offering my full support to Paul late 1980’s including my own, went through with members, reliable and cost effective. Worster, as Chairman in 2010, working a change in ownership and adapted their Getting back to Learning and Develop- with him and the rest of the board to benefit business model following the previous ment opportunities it is particularly all the membership. In Paul, I know we have recession. The result was much more focus important that we engage with assistant someone with drive, energy and enthusiasm on marketing to target golfers, making greenkeeper members, they are the future and who is equally keen to see learning and course improvements a regular continual Course Managers. Many seminars region- development as the cornerstone of BIGGA. process and finding ways to maintain high ally and at Harrogate are well attended by I would like to take this opportunity to standards at a lower cost. Having played senior staff but considering that assistant thank all the BIGGA staff for their hard work my part in this sometimes painful process greenkeepers make up the larger part of the and wish everyone a Happy New Year. of transforming an unsuccessful business membership they are under represented into one that now thrives, the learning expe- on these days. My own thoughts are that rience has proved invaluable. we should ensure that there are sufficient Much more emphasis on both financial regional training days that are specifically and environmental sustainability is result- aimed towards assistant greenkeepers held ing in lowered inputs to operate golf courses regularly but only during the winter months with the return to previous levels looking from November to February to ensure good Peter Todd increasingly unlikely. This correction in attendance levels. National Chairman

JANUARY 2010 GI 13 Greenkeepers Training Committee

David Golding, Education Director, with a monthly update from the GTC

Happy New Year – Is it? tries. However, it wouldn’t take it This fee, to be paid annually, is long for it all to collapse. In Brief “new money” for the GTC and while

Never has this term been So, at last a breakthrough for Awarding body agreement very welcome this proposal has spoken with so much hope the GTC! All formal education and gives industry due reward greater benefits to the education after many years of rather than just a passing training courses and the various developing greenkeeping and training system. schemes leading to a recognised standards - David explains The GTC training manual will be annual obligatory greeting! this landmark partnership. qualification attract government the only document that approved So what shall we do? Wait and funding and this is where employ- centres will use and the learning see if something happens to make it ers as well as greenkeepers really materials will be made available to a happy new year or actually think benefit from the routine core work every learner on the greenkeeper The GTC is funded by: positively and contribute to making of the GTC. and golf course supervisor training it a happy new year! It is Further Education Colleges courses. At the time of writing this article and private training Centres who This is “new income” for the GTC, pre the festive season, the GTC access government funding to pro- but I certainly hope readers see this has no official presence at Harro- vide courses relating to the various as recognition for the sector after gate Week, no sponsorship of the approved formal qualifications and nearly 50 years of determination to Continue to Learn programme, no schemes at a much reduced cost. establish the sector’s own branded exhibition stand; all decisions made The GTC is involved at every qualifications, not only as a finan- by the Board, following a savage stage of qualification development cial reward but it also confirms it is reduction in funding support from and review from the new 14-19 in control of its own standards. various sources. Environmental and Land based There are other Awarding Bodies Cuts have been made to the GTC’s Diploma, through the changes in that will be looking to offer similar budget and only a few are men- NVQ’s to Work Based Diplomas and Diplomas but the C&G - NPTC – tioned above, however, the GTC’s Higher Education college based GTC partnership will be the only work to have a range of nationally courses/qualifications. Diploma that has the industry’s full recognised qualifications including We have to ensure we continue to endorsement. an apprenticeship scheme, which attract youngsters into the career Discussions are also underway has benefited many golf clubs and of greenkeeping and continue to with the Scottish Qualifications greenkeepers over many years con- maintain and improve access to the Authority (SQA) to mirror the tinues and hopefully “new income” various qualifications including the C&G-NPTC – GTC agreement. In is at last on the horizon. apprenticeship scheme. principle the branding of the SVQ’s The GTC, since the R&A’s deci- has been agreed but a further meet- sion to phase out its core funding Confused? ing is planned to finalise the detail to the GTC over a three-year period of an agreement. from 2005, has explored many I am pleased to report that Having attended so many meet- avenues to make up over £100,000 despite the ongoing changes the ings in recent years fighting the per annum in lost income. Government keeps proposing for greenkeeping sectors corner and We all read John Pemberton’s qualifications the GTC has, with finally gaining recognition at the Editorial in the December maga- the support of individuals working highest level for the standards we zine regarding the golfing industry in colleges and Centres, main- all seek, I can finally start to believe having to realise that more funding tained the national occupational in Father Christmas and just hope is required for greenkeeping and standards for apprentices to Degree that 2010 is a very HAPPY NEW John, Donald Steel, the GTC Chair- students. YEAR for all of us! man, and fellow GTC Directors The three skill sets are also (representatives from the Home maintained for greenkeeper, golf Unions) are also asking the same course supervisor and golf course question, how do we raise more manager. funds especially from the increas- BREAKING NEWS: ing number of nomad golfers to Now for the breaking news: Contact Details help provide a better service to The GTC’s Training Manual golf club employers, employees and City & Guilds – NPTC, as the tra- David Golding GTC Education Director and Learning Materials to be give golfers, the customer, better ditional leading Awarding Body for adapted for use by Groundsmen conditions to enjoy their game of the Land base sector in England, 01347 838640 [email protected] and women at all NPTC Centres golf? Wales and Northern Ireland, will GTC offering the new Work Based It has taken years for the GTC to during 2010 be including the GTC Aldwark Manor Diplomas in Groundsmanship! establish the structure for green- logo on all its Work Based Diplomas Near York YO61 1UF More to follow... keeper education and training in for greenkeepers and part of every the UK with a set of qualifications, registration fee will be paid to the www.the-gtc.co.uk which are the envy of many coun- GTC.

14 GI JANUARY 2010 Learning & Development Sami Collins, Head of Learning & Development, with an update on education issues

I trust that you have all had • Purchase 22 new books for the Silver Key Companies an enjoyable festive period BIGGA Library and are raring to go for 2010! • Supported the cost of educa- Arc Legal Assistance Rachael and I are now trying tion for 28 members through the Bernhard & Co Ltd to stick to our New Year Refund of Fees Scheme Ernest Doe resolutions – easier said than • Subsidised the cost of Section The funding provided Hayter by Golden and Silver done! and Region education events Key Sponsors is used to Heath Lambert Group For our industry, the year kicks • Provided new Field Guide fold- produce training and career Rain Bird aids, DVDs, CD Roms, off in grand style with Harrogate ers and dividers field guides and provide Symbio Week incorporating Continue to • Produced an updated Pest and refunds for training fees and Wiedenmann subsidised learning and Learn and the BTME & ClubHouse Disease Field Guide development courses. The Exhibition providing us all with a • Subsidised Microsoft Online funding also helps support Individual Silver Key contributors seminars, workshops, much needed pick me up to lead us Learning packages courses, the lending library, careers advice, posters and into the new season. The cost of these activities alone manuals. Ade Archer Delivering an event such as Con- is almost £35,000. Iain Barr Many young greenkeepers tinue to Learn is a time consuming owe their career Hamish Campbell and costly exercise to ensure that The Gold and Silver Key progression to the Steve Dixon assistance they’ve had the standard of education is up to companies and individuals who from the Learning and Paul Jenkins scratch and relevant, as well as contributed to the Learning and Development Fund. An Robert Maibusch MG equal number of established affordable. Development Fund in 2009 are: greenkeepers have also Richard McGlynn been able to access the The Continue to Learn 2010 Edu- fund to continue their Stephen Pope cation Programme is being partially professional development Jason Sarna thanks to the donations of supported by our Gold and Silver Gold Key the Golden and Silver Key Steven Tierney Key members, who contribute a Companies Sponsors. Neil Whitaker great deal of money to the Learning Graham Wylie and Development Fund. John Deere The Learning and Development Kubota Learning and Development lies Fund is a ring-fenced fund that European Tour at the very core of BIGGA’s culture supports all of the activities that are Ransomes Jacobsen and with many projects in mind for undertaken by the Learning and Rigby Taylor 2010 the continued support of our Development Department. Syngenta Gold and Silver Key contributors is Without this support BIGGA Toro vital to allow the Association to keep would not be able to offer many moving forward and continue to of the benefits and services that Individual Gold Key Contact Details enhance the reputation of its mem- are available to our Members contributors bers by promoting best practice in Sami Collins today. Head of L&D sports turf management. In 2009 the Gold and Silver WJ Rogers [email protected] If you are interested in contribut- Key companies and individuals Andy Campbell MG, GCGS Rachael Duffy ing to the Learning and Develop- L&D Administrator have supported a number of initia- Iain A Macleod [email protected] ment fund as a Gold and Silver Key tives: Tom Smith member, individuals should contact 01347 833800 (option 3) • Sponsorship of the Continue Frank Newberry the Membership Department and to Learn article in Greenkeeper Christopher Lomas MG www.bigga.org.uk companies should contact John International Lee Strutt MG Pemberton, Chief Executive.

Thank you to our Golden and Silver Key Sponsors

Golden Key Individual Members: WJ Rogers; Andy Campbell MG, CGCS; Iain A Macleod; Tom Smith; Frank Newberry; Christopher Lomas MG, Lee Strutt MG. Silver Key Individual Members: Ade Archer; Iain Barr; Hamish Campbell; Steve Dixon; Paul Jenkins; Robert Maibusch MG; Richard McGlynn; Stephen Pope; Jason Sarna; Steven Tierney; Neil Whitaker; Graham Wylie

JANUARY 2010 GI 15 INDUSTRY UPDATE GI The latest turf industry news from around the globe

Honorary Award The IOG has announced two Award schemes in honour of its late chairman, Alex Millar: The Alex R Millar Award for Pitch of the Year; and the 2012 Fund’s Alex R Millar Bursary Fund. Both schemes reflect aspects of the industry that Alex was deeply passionate about. Alex was IOG National Chairman from 2002 up to his death last year. He also held the Launceston Chooses Massey post from 1991-1993 and was the IOG representative on football’s Graeme Galllimore, Course another tractor,” he explained. and his greenkeeping team Playing Surfaces Committee, Manager at Launceston Golf “We decided to fit a front-end wanted a versatile tractor helping to establish the Football Club, in Cornwall has selected loader to an existing model that was able also to satisfy a Groundsman of the Year awards. an MF 1540A compact tractor and buy a new tractor of number of key points. Alex also served as IOG Board as being the ideal power unit around 40hp that could work “It had to have good stability, member as well as being a former for the club’s demanding comfortably on all parts of our a high power-to-weight ratio, Treasurer of the IOG. course maintenance hilly course in all weathers.” decent rear lift capacity and be IOG Chief Executive, Geoff requirements. As the incoming power unit fitted with wide flotation tyres Webb, said the Alex R Millar “Our ageing loader tractor was to be used on tasks such so it could work effectively Award for Pitch of the Year would had seen better days and the as deep tine aeration, mole without compacting our be an annual award open to time had come to pension it off drainage, top dressing, trailer clay-loam greens,” explained all professional football clubs and give its loading duties to work and spraying, Graeme Graeme. throughout Scotland, England, Wales and Ireland. “The difference with this award will be that it will be Tracmaster Goes to Oxford groundsmen themselves that will vote, in much the same way Oxford University Parks have purchased two Turney Groundforce, who recommended that the Professional Footballers’ Tracmaster BCS Commander Flail Mowers BCS from Tracmaster,” said Walter. Association votes for its player of through Bicester-based dealer, Turney “We opted for the BCS Commander with the year.” Groundforce. the 80cm flail mower as the best machine for He also announced that the The University Parks consist of about the job.” bursary aspect of the IOG’s 2012 70 acres of parkland on the west bank of The BCS Commander is a professional Fund will be renamed. Alex the River Cherwell. Walter Sawyer, Park grass management system designed for was a fervent supporter of the Superintendent, and his 34-strong team those who need adaptable machines. bursaries, which offer financial are responsible for this park on South Parks It is capable of operating a number of help towards students’ costs Road, as well as the grounds of 21 colleges implements including a flail mower, scythe, of tuition, fees and materials across Oxford. rotary mower, hay rake and mini baler. There incurred as part of turf science “We needed to replace our Saxon flail is also a bank version of the machine for use and groundscare management mowers so we contacted our local dealer, on slopes up to 40 degrees. studies.

16 GI JANUARY 2010 Chairman Elected John Deere has elected Samuel R Allen as Chairman of the board, effective from February 24. . He will continue as Deere & Company President and Chief Executive Officer. The decision is To the Manor Combe... another step in the company’s systematic The Manor House Golf, at on offer across the industry. demonstration vehicle for a week process of leadership Castle Combe, has purchased a We undertook some detailed on two separate occasions so that transition that was fleet of 46 electric E-Z-GO RXV evaluation of the major brands and the management and members announced last June. golf cars from local distributor, the operating costs of petrol versus could evaluate them extensively. Samuel will become TH White. electric. The members have really taken Chairman immediately Charlie Gaisford, the Club’s “I particularly like the durability to them and particularly like the following expiration Course Equipment Maintenance of the RXV; its robust and well put regenerative braking system, which of Robert W Lane’s Technician, was instrumental together. The onboard chargers combined with the automatic current term as in the decision making process kept the cost of installing the parking brake, provide excellent Chairman and member together with Estates Manager, additional charging points in our downhill control and safety. of the Deere Board of Paul Bishop. covered buggy park to a sensible “The major attraction of these Directors. The board “We were operating a mixed level. The automatic battery fill buggies is that they are very also voted to reduce fleet of petrol and electric golf cars system not only ensures that the cost-effective to run and generate the size of the board to supplied by another of the major batteries are maintained easily, significant revenue for the club. 11 members, effective manufacturers,” said Charlie. but that they are topped up to the Almost as important, they are at the same time. “When it came time to change correct level and not over-filled. certainly a hit with members and In June, Deere & we had a good look at what was “TH White’s loaned us a visitors.” Company announced that it had elected Samuel to become Torrential rain has President and Chief highlighted compaction Operating Officer and drainage problems The new Chairman on golf courses is a 34-year veteran throughout the UK, of Deere with a broad sending Terrain Aeration range of leadership from Hampshire to experience. He has Birmingham and served as a Senior Hertfordshire to Eastern Officer since 2001, Scotland. was President of the At Copt Heath and Worldwide Construction Basingstoke golf course, & Forestry Division Terrain Aeration treated and also led the Deere all 18 greens with the Power Systems Group, Airforce Scamper terralift John Deere Credit’s machine, relieving global operations and compaction panning by Deere’s global human injecting compressed air. resources and labour Terrain got to Kirkcaldy relations. GC and treated nine of He also had Head Greenkeeper Mike responsibility for Deere’s Ewan’s traditional greens intelligent mobile while the weather held. Terrain Drains equipment technologies David Green and for Deere’s remembers rock hard Fore Golf advanced technology ground conditions. and innovation.

JANUARY 2010 GI 17 Feature

Make 2010 a Good Year

18 GI JANUARY 2010 Photograph of Hankley Common, taken by Gareth Roberts

JANUARY 2010 GI 19 Feature

Keep it Simple

What can be done on the golf course to ensure standards are maintained during a period when budgets are being cut and finance is at a premium. Les Howkins MG, Course Manager at The Richmond Golf Club, in Surrey, offers some advice on how to make a difference without raiding the piggy bank.

It is an accepted truism that in fact, that you do wonder why you tion of the time which then frees up the golf course is a golf club’s ever seen neglected flag sticks or manpower to weed paths and edge greatest asset, but it will only scruffy furniture on any golf course, bunkers. remain so if it is maintained but Les has a theory on that. “It’s also fantastic if you can hand to the best standard the “I believe that a lot of greenkeep- mow greens but if you have had to budget will allow and does not ers think about tees, fairways and make a member of staff redundant deteriorate. greens, first, second and last. I if you have a ride-one use it as it Master Greenkeeper Les Howk- remember when I went to college it saves a lot of time and manpower ins is well aware of the need to keep was all about turf quality and never which can be used elsewhere on quality high but also knows that once was I told of the importance the course.” the need to do so cost effectively is of keeping the golf course neat and However, Les is quick to put of paramount importance. tidy. Keeping markers painted and something else into the equation Les Howkins MG, Course “I’m pretty lucky here, we are paths weeded etc is still not part of if changes to course management Manager increasing membership and are the NVQ system. procedures are to take place. bringing in more green fees but I “People tend to focus on the “Communication is the key. If also remember where I’ve come element that they spend a lot of you are making changes to the way from, working at golf clubs where money on – fungicide, fertiliser, top you cut, or have decided to rake the budgets were tight and life was a bit dressing, aeration, cutting and put bunkers three times a week instead more of a struggle,” he explained. all their effort into that. However, of four, it is important that you With that in mind, and being a they could have the best greens in inform the members and explain northerner, he has a keen appre- the world but if nothing else is up the reason to them.” ciation of the value of money and to scratch people won’t go and play And ideally this doesn’t just mean employs many low or no cost it,” said Les. sticking a notice up in the locker techniques which make a real dif- “They are all things that don’t room. ference. necessarily stand out when they “Emails are great. Most clubs “Top of the list is to keep things are done well, but they certainly do have a database of emails addresses clean and tidy. For example, it stand out if they are not right.” and it takes seconds to send a mes- doesn’t cost money to take a bucket Another area where resources sage to all the members and costs of water and a sponge and wash can be shepherded more effectively nothing. If it’s chucking it down and down the flag pins. It’s dead simple. is cutting regimes. the course is wet, we’ll inform them. Also for the cost of a can of paint “There is no point id diamond If it’s frosty, we tell them. It’s a really and a little bit of effort you can have cutting a fairway that takes how- good way of communicating and the tee markers and the hazard ever many hours when you can get makes the member feel he or she is posts looking fresh.” just as good a quality of surface by being considered.” A marker post in need of a It does sound simple. So simple, block cutting half and half in a frac- Les is also an advocate of having coat of paint

20 GI JANUARY 2010 Feature

the set of standards the greenkeep- cope better financially. They will ers and is a good way of motivating ABOVE: Manor House GC at Castle Coombe, taken by Gian ing team works to written down. have fewer inputs, less disease, less if no pay rise is available.” Povey, and showing how good a “Everyone should know the stan- fungicide so money and time spent Les is very much of the view that course can look. dards that you work to – General maintaining them is always going the way to succeed is to be the best BELOW: Example of a well raked Managers, Committees, staff etc, to be less, but you can’t change to club of your type in the area. bunker and if any changes are made these a more sustainable approach over “You want to be the best club full should be made known. It’s like night so it’s a long term project. stop but if you can’t be that you’ve the Policy Document and would “People can work towards this got to be the best you can be in your include things like the number of though because the next recession target market. If you are at a lower times you rake the bunkers, cut the is only 10-15 years away. It’s one of end pay-and-play you make sure fairways etc.” those facts of life. It goes round in you are better than the next nearest Working out how many hours are circles,” warned Les. lower end play-and-play. spent doing various tasks through Off the course Les is also a great “It’s a case of doing the right the week also makes it much easier advocate of personal development things, keeping it simple and not to identify what jobs would have to and has some advice that can keep making it over frilly.” be dispensed with should the man that on track without costing a hours available to the Course Man- penny. ager be reduced through a reduc- “Training can be quite expensive, tion in overtime or redundancy. particularly if money is tight but it It says much for the skills of is important to keep it up and it can the country’s Course Managers be done even if you have virtually no that even with cut backs at many budget at all. golf clubs over the last 18 months With the BIGGA Library you can standards have been maintained or be sitting at home in an evening even raised. adding to your knowledge for just “You have to be adaptable, roll the cost of return postage. with the punches and move with Section Training events can also the times. You can’t be stuck in be very useful and can be for s little your ways. as £15-£20 a day. Not a lot of money “There is nothing in our job and something you can always that we can’t do. There is always pay out of your own pocket if the an answer and a way of making club has no money in the training something work but when it comes budget. to the longer term those with bents The Government fund some NVQ and fescues greens will probably training for the younger greenkeep-

JANUARY 2010 GI 21 Feature

Loads of Money

Ian Henderson gives some As recently as two years ago, There have been casualties, sound advice for ensuring funding for golf clubs was easy. and there will be more. Golf clubs Golf was considered a very however, are resilient beasts, and your club’s financial survival good risk, and while some of the well established members’ golf the more recently established clubs will continue to survive, and proprietary clubs were indeed some will thrive albeit at the scrutinised more closely than expense of others. a 100 year old members club, What the lenders fail to address the business was generally is that golf clubs which have graced arranged without too much our land for 100 years and more difficulty. have witnessed several crisis. Two How things have changed. world wars, depressions, fashion With golf clubs considered part of swings and they are still here to tell the leisure industry, the clearing the tale. banks and finance houses have lost As you would expect at a time like most of their appetite for our busi- this, there has been a downturn in ness. machinery replacement, with many Without doubt life has become clubs making do for another year or more difficult for many golf clubs. two. The quality of the machines

22 GI JANUARY 2010 Feature

available today, combined with reg- gible security, normally by way of which have seen huge changes in ABOVE: Photography by Dean ular maintenance means, in many a first charge over the course and attitudes toward money. Many golf McMenemy cases a fairway mower scheduled clubhouse. clubs who considered themselves for replacement after five years will According to a respected golf club cash purchasers, are now looking last seven or eight years. The only specialist, values of golf clubs have to utilise machinery finance and thing a club must be aware of is the fallen between 5% and 15% over spread their cost. cost of hanging onto a machine for the last two years. The current situation has also too long. Once the project has been agreed spurred many clubs to look at the Where a five year old mower and costed, there is no certainty way they conduct their business. It may be worth £5,000, if it requires funding will be available. Over the is always difficult to carry out major a major repair, which could cost past two years the funders have changes, but because it has always between £3,000 and £6,000 it will become very adept at finding rea- been done this way, does not mean still only be worth £5,000. So it is sons not to agree facilities. it is right. true to say there will come a point where you can start throwing good money after bad. It is true to say there will come a The repair costs would go along way to covering the annual lease point where you can start throwing cost for a new replacement mower. good money after bad. Machinery finance is generally still readily available, and while fixed interest rates do not reflect In addition to making funding Traditional systems and meth- the current bank base rate of 0.5%, difficult, most of the lending houses ods are no longer suitable in today’s rates are generally favourable and have taken advantage of the lack marketplace and more efficient finance offers great flexibility. of funding to significantly increase management is being implemented For larger projects such as their margins and fees. in many golf clubs. clubhouse renovation or course In 2005 it would be reasonable to More than ever careful plan- improvements, the rules have assume a facility of say, £500,000 ning is required for all aspects changed dramatically. In years gone could be secured at around bank of the golf club business. by projects under a cost of £50,000 base rate + 1.5% - 2% but in today’s • Machinery Finance were regularly funded simply with market you could be nearer bank • Long term projects an unsecured loan. base rate +3.5% - 4% • Overhead controls In today’s market any project The fee structure has also • Staffing costs where we are looking at longer increased with arrangement fees of With proper management and term, large value funding, without 2% quite common. planning, and a sustainable flex- doubt the funder will look for tan- We are in fairly difficult times, ible finance programme, there is

JANUARY 2010 GI 23 12474A Harrogate ad 127x87 AW 25/11/2009 09:15 Page 1

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24 GI JANUARY 2010 Feature

no reason why all golf clubs cannot of year continuous membership are Family Inclusion: With your ride out this difficult period, and entitled to up to 50% reduction in average medal round taking just come out the other end stronger their annual subs. over four hours, an hour’s travel than ever. The problem is the number time to and from the golf course, It is vital that golf clubs have a who qualify for this has increased and diet coke and a sandwich with long hard look at the way they do dramatically to almost 35% of the your playing partners, it’s not just a business. It is no longer enough to entire membership in some cases. Saturday morning. look at the bottom line when the In truth many of these members It is important that golf clubs today annual accounts are lodged at the have taken early retirement, play offer more than just golf. If there are AGM. Each department must be at least five times a week, and have activities where the whole family isolated and assessed on its own more expendable income than a 40 can become involved, the entire merits. It is all very well having a year old man, with a large mortgage, day becomes much more inclusive fantastic bar turnover, but what do and a family to support. It is vital and less contentious. Mixed com- you do if the catering is dragging clubs redefine the rules. While there petitions including Gents, Ladies, it down? It is all very well having is mammoth resistance to any sort Seniors and Juniors, with a buffet a waiting list and good members’ of increase aimed at the seniors, and prize giving at the end can be income, what do you do if visitors and bearing in mind they make up very successful and rewarding. It is are turned away and made to fell the majority of members and turn also worth considering awarding the less than welcome. out en masse at any AGM or EGM, spouse of a full member automatic A few clubs are in the envious position where money is of second- ary importance, for the rest of us we Successful clubs are now looking need to make sure all parts of the jigsaw fit together to give a complete at ways of generating income from picture. alternative sources. Hard decisions may need to be taken; many of them will prove unpopular, but not as unpopular as it important new rules are set going social membership of the club, and standing up at an EGM to explain forward. It may be possible, for encourage them to make use the the need for £150 levy per member example to restrict the reduced fee facilities on offer. for the next five years! seniors to five day memberships, While money may not be as read- Successful clubs are now looking which would free up valuable tee ily available as before, it is not all at ways of generating income from times at weekends. doom and gloom. alternative sources. If you have 500 Junior retention: Years ago, 75% With a positive sustainable members and 5,000 visitor rounds - 80% of boys and girls turning 18 programme and a properly thought per year that is how much revenue found a job within 10 miles of where future, it is still possible to secure you will generate in 12 months. they were brought up. Today 80% the funding required for you and If you have the facilities to plus will leave their home town and club to survive and thrive. accommodate members’ functions, travel all over the world to universi- such as weddings, anniversaries, ties and colleges to gain knowledge Ian Henderson is Managing Director of Golf Finance. birthday etc exponential additional in their chosen subject. The www.golffinance.co.uk income can be raised with out alter- chances of them returning home is ing the basic golf income streams fairly limited, so we need to face the available. fact it is nigh on impossible to keep Simple things like offering 10% the juniors, as their subscriptions discount for visitors if they book increase to senior rate. lunch or dinner at the same time as If it were possible to charge a booking golf or reduced buggy fees nominal fee to “keep them in the if the buggy is reserved at the time of fold” and allow them to play for, say booking can make a big difference a visitors’ guest fee, it would be a to the overall profit at the end of start. the year. Second club membership: In the If your club charge £25 per past people who were fortunate person per round. You only need enough to belong to two clubs have one fourball per day, Monday to made a choice of one club or the Friday, April to October and you other. Geography will often dictate will generate an additional £16,000 if they stay or go, but flexibility in income per year! fees and restricted access can often The demographics of golf clubs encourage them to stay, in one are changing significantly. We are shape or form. To retain a member, seeing the average age of exist- even if that includes changing cat- ing members increasing and a egories means there is still income huge number of junior members potential from that person. leaving clubs as the turn 18 and The dropping of joining fees has transfer to the adult section. This also contributed to the “Nomadic coupled with the general exodus Golfer” who club hops from year from many clubs, means there are to year. several important issues needing By providing the best course in addressed. the area along with a welcome and Senior discounts: Many clubs good value for money catering can operate schemes where senior ensure your club is where the club members, with a specific number hopper lays down his roots.

JANUARY 2010 GI 25 FCeaOUtRuSEre Feature Match Made in Heaven

26 GI JANUARY 2010 Match Made in Heaven The relocation of the World Match Play Championship to Finca Cortesin was an incredible coup for the relatively new course. But as Mark Alexander finds out, bringing one of the richest tournaments in golf to Spain wasn’t all plain sailing

JANUARY 2010 GI 27 COURSE Feature

Finca Cortesin is a new, luxury “All departments of my game resort located an hour’s drive were strong: the new driver seems south of Malaga. to be going really well, my short The course itself slipped under game was pretty sharp and there the radar when it opened in 2006 were some shots out there that which is surprising considering the really paid dividends.” quality of Cabell Robinson’s routing But Finca has far more than just through two wide ravines. Finca’s length up its sleeve. The greens fortunes changed however when it typically have narrow approaches succeeded Wentworth in hosting flanked by deep bunkers. The 18th the World Match Play Champion- is a prime example with no less ship in October. Not surprisingly, than nine bunkers surrounding the interest in the young upstart began putting surface. Bearing in mind, to pick up. this is a 567-yard, par five finishing It was after all big news - opening hole that plays up hill all the way, a new course in Spain’s saturated you get some idea of the demands southern fringes is one thing, but placed on the players. opening one and then securing a The 15th is another stormer. This European Tour event is something sweeping dogleg left covers 452 else. It was a move that also prized yards and has its apex protected by one of the richest tournaments in five sprawling sand traps. Played golf from Wentworth’s steely grasp, from elevated tee positions across a which at a time of manic cost cut- ravine and up an imposing slope to ting has to be admired. a green with incredible views, this “The initial business plan hole tests players’ courage as well included the idea of hosting a big as their brawn. tournament so the course has been There are plenty examples of designed to be a championship epic holes at Finca which demand Being thrust into the media course, with its length,” said Javier accuracy and length off the tee, but spotlight has certainly helped Finca Reviriego, Director General of Finca the added threat of a stiff breeze gain valuable column inches and Cortesin. off the Mediterranean makes it an alluring TV coverage, but as Revir- “It’s not a course for everyone.” intriguing place for competitive golf. iego admits, there were also risks At 7,445 yards off the back pegs, In fact, the risk-and-reward strat- involved. Finca certainly has the length to egy that permeates its way through “When you host something like challenge the very best tour players, the course began when the decision this, you better be prepared,” he as Ross Fisher found on his way to was first made to bring the match warned. clinching the title against Anthony play tournament to the Med. “Especially in a situation like we Kim; the first to be won away from “It was earlier than we had have where everybody will compare Wentworth since the tournament’s expected but the opportunity to us to Valderrama and Wentworth. It inception at the Surrey course in bring a very prestigious tourna- Javier Reviriego, Director was certainly a way of putting us on General of Finca Cortesin. 1964. ment to Finca was too good to miss. the map quickly, but it could have Describing his victory as a “long, We couldn’t say no,” said Javier. also worked against us if we weren’t grueling week”, the 28 year old “The last year has been hectic prepared. We only have one chance admitted the course tested every with the golf course. We’ve had to to make a first impression, so we part of his game. do things that would have normally wanted to make sure everything “This course is very demanding, taken three or four years to complete was perfect.” not only mentally but also physi- but we decided to do it because it The man in charge of ensuring cally,” he said. was too good an opportunity.” perfection on the course is Ignacio

28 GI JANUARY 2010 Soto, Finca’s Head Greenkeeper. age with gravel. Unfortunately, After 14 years plying his trade at some parts of the course weren’t courses like Valderrama and Soto originally done properly.” Grande, he moved into construc- But the course’s drainage was tion and in January 2009 was merely an aperitif to the main bulk employed by Finca as a consultant of work that had to be completed to oversee the course preparations. before the World Match Play Seven months later he was offered Championship could take place. the job as Head Greenkeeper, and For instance, despite the gloriously he hasn’t looked back since. If the undulating landscape that affords truth be told, he hasn’t had time. wonderful views over both the Med “There was a lot to do on the golf and an impressive mountain range course - until they hired me, there that acts as a suitably dramatic wasn’t a Head Greenkeeper,” he backdrop, the site was blighted by admits. One of his first jobs was electricity pylons that serviced a sorting out the drainage. nearby village. If a European Tour “The sub soil is a 100% expanded event was to be held at Finca, the clay – it’s like plastic so it doesn’t pylons had to go. take any water. Whenever we get a “All the wires went under ground,” lot of rain, it runs through the two said Ignacio. ABOVE: The glorious greenery and mountainous surroundings of Finca Cortesin - the top layers, so we need proper drain- “It was a big job and very expen- new, luxury resort located an hour’s drive south of Malaga.

JANUARY 2010 GI 29 COURSE Feature

sive, costing around €8 million. But playing and drainage conditions. your buggy (which is absolutely ABOVE: Ignacio Soto, the golf course wouldn’t be the same To rectify the situation, we’re using essential). The attention to detail Finca’s Head Greenkeeper, if it hadn’t been done because you a fairly new technique where we would be unnerving if it wasn’t for stands proudly in front of his immaculate course. now have beautiful, uninterrupted clean the bunker by taking out all the considered approach taken by views to the sea.” the sand, gravel and drainage, and the staff who convince you effort- The work to rebuild holes 11, 12 put in a polyethylene sheet into all lessly that their intention is to make and 13, through which the pylons the contours of the bunker right up your stay as pleasant as possible. crossed, was started a year after to the edge. We then put the drain- It seems this policy has been the course opened. It was essential age on top of the sheet and on top wholeheartedly embraced by if disruptive work, and it wasn’t of that we put a plastic net which Ignacio and his 25 greenkeepers the only change needed to host a allows the bunker to drain but who busy themselves preparing premier event like the World Match won’t let the clay or gravel back up. the course and, more importantly, Play. On top of the net, we’re depositing undertake improvements that “We changed the grass on the new, silica sand, which is different would send shivers down the back green aprons,” Ignacio explained. to our old sand. It’s like crushed of many others. “Originally, they were fescue. marble. It’s a looser, cleaner sand “Irrigating this course is very It wasn’t the right type of grass which creates much better playing complicated,” he continued. “We because the water quality isn’t conditions.” have a lot of undulations so we suitable and it’s very difficult to At a cost of €30/m2, the sheet- have many different levels to water. play out of. So we changed it to 419 and-netting option isn’t cheap, Getting the right amount of water to Bermuda, which we use on the but it is necessary and was being the right area is very difficult. That’s fairways, tees and rough.” implemented right up to the start why we have 2,000 sprinkler heads In fact, only the greens escaped of play. to adjust.” about the author the Bermuda treatment, covered “I hope to have all the bunkers Finca Cortesin is the rarest of golf Mark Alexander is an instead with L93 bentgrass. The done for next year,” said Ignacio. resorts. It has set its standards at award-winning golf transition from fescue to Bermuda “It’s a big job, but it’s the worst the highest levels and is delivering course photographer and established journalist around the fringes took eight area of the golf course right now, on them across all departments. who works for magazines, resorts and architects. months and was completed well and the bunkers will only get even Nowhere is this more evident than Brought up in St Andrews, ahead of the build-up to the tourna- worse if we don’t do anything about on the golf course where perfection it seemed inevitable that he would work in the golf ment. Cutting it a little finer was the it. But it’s not just for the tourna- is the goal and attention to detail is industry although initially work to rebuild the 116 bunkers, ment, it’s something we want to do the norm. his work took him to London and various roles 30 of which were completed in time to improve the course generally.” The World Match Play Champi- in publishing. Since then for the World Match Play. What immediately strikes you onship is set to be played at Finca his work has appeared in various golf publications “More or less all of them had about Finca Cortesin is the quality of until 2011 with a possible three- not to mention a host of websites and corporate problems with clay bases,” Ignacio the service that extends throughout year extension. marketing literature. He explained. the resort from the front-of-house If the resort’s first effort is any- balances his photographic work with writing and “Due to the heavy rains and staff through to the club house and thing to go by, one of the richest occasionally a round of golf underground water, the clay mixes finally to the welcoming smile the tournaments in golf might have – with a camera never too far away. readily with the sand creating bad attendants give you as you pick up found a new permanent home.

30 GI JANUARY 2010 Unlock the potential of greenkeepers

Become a key sponsor The funding provided by Golden and Silver Key supporters means that BIGGA can continue to produce training and career aids including DVDs, CD Roms, ﬁ eld-guides, as well as refunds for training fees, subsidised learning and development courses, the lending library, careers advice, posters and manuals. To ﬁ nd out more, contact BIGGA HOUSE on 01347 833800

I really wanted to develop my education but had to fund my own training, so I contacted BIGGA to ask for ﬁ nancial support. A refund of my course fees has enabled me to complete my chainsaw maintenance and cross cutting, felling of small trees and my PA6 spraying certiﬁ cates. I really do appreciate what BIGGA, with the support of the Golden and Silver Key Companies, has done for my career.

Murray Mannall, Greenkeeper

The support for this fund has enabled BIGGA to enhance the value of being a member, and it has previously given many greenkeepers the opportunity to further develop their careers. As an association we owe our Golden and Silver Key sponsors a huge vote of thanks.

John Pemberton, Chief Executive

Thankyou to the following who supported the fund in 2009

Gold Key Individual Members: Andy Campbell MG CGCS; Sam Langrick; Christopher Lomas MG; Iain A Macleod; Frank Newberry; W J Rogers; Tom Smith; Lee Strutt MG Silver Key Individual Members: Ade Archer; Iain Barr; Hamish Campbell; Steve Dixon; Paul Jenkins; Robert Maibusch MG; Richard McGlynn; Stephen Pope; Jason Sarna; Steven Tierney; Neil Whitaker; Graham Wylie

KEY SPONSORS_FP NEW.indd 1 18/12/09 11:20:34 The first of a new series in which James de Havilland takes a closer look at the intricacies of current machinery The anatomy of... a Greens Mower

The John Deere 2500 greens mowers have a great deal in common, but are very different mowers...

Built around essentially the same running gear as the established John Deere 2500B greens mower, the ‘hybrid’ 2500E is now a well established model in the UK. Here we take a closer look at both models, outlining what they share and where they differ.

32 GI JANUARY 2010 Feature Step-by-step Analysis... John Deere 2500 greens mowers

Brushless reel motors are well proven and liked for their ability From the operator’s point of view, there is little to tell the to deliver precise cut speeds. As with all greens mowers, 2500B and 2500E apart from the seat. The latter mounted on a Deere places great emphasis upon quality of cut. Note the sloping rail to raise it as it is adjusted back. Steering column rolerl brush; users can specify a range of cutting unit options. adjusts for reach.

Traction motor pump on the 2500E is the same design as At a modest 2,250 engine rpm, the powerful alternator on the Below the command arm is a small cubby which can have used on its all-hydraulic sibling, the 25000B... 2500E will deliver enough ‘juice’ to power the cutting units at a net cover. Greens mowers are designed to be light and (continued on next page) the desired cutting speed. In work, the engine can be throttle compact, but a bit of storage space never goes amiss. Users back, cutting noise and fuel consumption. can choose between smooth and tread pattern tyres.

Calling the hydraulic- The electric advantage is important. We can demonstrate electric John Deere 2500E a the system works well and can ‘hybrid’ mower is somewhat Because these two greens reduce operating costs. But quality misleading. Most of us mowers share the same cutting of cut remains the most important associate the word’ hybrid’, units, chassis and engine, John issue”. at least in the automotive Deere is well placed to argue the So does the 2500E do a ‘better’ sense, with a vehicle that has case for and against electric drive. job than the hydraulic 2500B? an engine with a large battery On the downside, current electric Short answer. No. More considered pack to power electric drive systems do add a bit of extra weight answer is that the 2500E may motors. and it is fair to say there is better offer some advantage. The cylinder The engine provides generating industry wide expertise in the speed can be precisely matched power to keep these batteries topped understanding of hydraulic drive to the job in hand and full motor up, chiming in when either more systems. torque chimes in as soon as power ‘oomph’ is required or when the On the plus side, the electron- is applied. This ideal for mowing batteries are in need of a charge. ics and components used on the as it ensures a cutting unit is up The John Deere 2500E is dif- 2500E are now well proven. If to speed pretty much as soon as ferent; a powerful 48 volt, 90 amp something goes wrong, swapping power is switched on. alternator directly powers the failed components is not difficult. “Although we can argue the cylinder electric motors. There are There are no hydraulic fluids to merits of electric over hydraulic no batteries involved and drive deal with either. But this is not as power we tend to look at more obvi- to the wheels is via conventional important as the way in which the ous advantages,” added Henry. hydrostatic drive. 2500E cuts grass. “A key feature of the 2500E is It is important to get this point “With a greens mower, the priority that it can be operated with the established from the outset as there is quality of cut,” said Henry Bredin, engine running at a reduced speed. are still those who think the 2500E John Deere’s UK Product Market- This cuts noise and vibration and, carries a heavy battery pack. In fact ing Manager - Turf Equipment. of equal importance, can reduce the 2500E and all hydraulic 2500B “When we talk to customers fuel use too”. are pretty similar weight wise, the about the 2500 series this is our It is always difficult to say by just ‘electric’ models having a weight starting point. The fact we offer how much any given 2500E will penalty of perhaps 22kg or so. electric cylinder drive on the 2500E save on diesel, but Deere suggest

JANUARY 2010 GI 33 Feature

... the 2500B having three independent pumps to power the cutting unis, the raise lower function and steering Both 2500 models have Command Arm daiagnostic and more A common control theme is part of Deere’s design, the respectively. advanced ‘under hood’ diagnostic system. Light pulses will flash command arm retaining a yellow colour for throttle controls in a set sequence to identify key faults, such a a faulty engine and orange for engaging drive. Genral ergonomics of Deere (continued from previous page) glow plug. mowers is well liked by operators.

Separate travel pedals feature on both the 2500B and 2500E. As with most manufactuers, john Deere makes subtle design ... of 2010 model year 2500 mowershaving been refined to As with any item of kit it can take a while to get used to tweaks to its mowers year on year, the catcher mounts... ensure even less weight is passed back to the units when the differant control types, particularly is you are used to a ‘heel catcher is full. and toe’ pedal design. fuel use can be cut by up to 30% ‘B’. The only caveat is when it comes when compared to the ‘B’ model. to pressure washing. Electronic To back lap or not to back lap In practice, the 2500B hydraulic systems of any type are not over motors need the engine to spin at fond of moisture. There are those who suggest back lapping is a shortcut rated speed of 3,000rpm for the to destroying the relief grind on a fine turf mower and, as hydraulic pump to deliver the right Summary such, something to be avoided at all costs. flow. John Deere suggest back lapping can be a useful On the 2500E the alternator John Deere charges a premium tool in helping to keep a cylinder sharp, and judicious generates enough juice to spin the of around 6% for its 2500E. In back lapping can extend the period between needing to cylinders at the right speeds with practice, most operators suggest regrind. just 2,250rpm engine speed. The this is worth paying not just for “A relief grind is used by all the key fine turf mower only time the operator will want to the ‘E’ offering potential savings in manufacturers,” says Henry Bredin. apply full throttle on an ‘E’ is when operating costs but also for the way “At John Deere we see back lapping as a useful tool to travelling between the greens, the in which the mower operates. help keep cylinders and bottom blades sharp. traction motors demanding full Downsides to ‘E’ ownership? “It is not an alternative to spin grinding and maintaining flow if the top travel speed is to be Deere is candid enough to admit a relief. In practice, a light back lap may extend the period achieved. that they have learned a great deal that a cutting unit will deliver a premium quality of cut. since they introduced the 2500E Back lapping is not designed to restore a cutting edge to a So what else is different? into Europe in 2004, early issues blunt cylinder and bottom blade”. causing dealers and Deere, at The back lapping procedure Langar, more than a few headaches. Graph to show back lapping can help retains optimum cut quality (see red lines) differs slightly between the 2500B But the 2500E is now a well refined and 2500E. In broad outline, the product, and an ideal alternative to hydraulics on the ‘B’ relies upon a the 2500B. micro valve to prevent the cylinders “We offer end users a choice. stalling when the back lapping The 2500E may not suit some golf paste is applied. No extra interven- courses. But where these mowers tion is required on the ‘E’. have been in use for a number of Is that it? Well pretty much, yes. years, feedback has been positive. The ‘E’ does not need any special Those that have an ‘E’ are unlikely tools to look after and can be to buy a ‘B’ at replacement time,” treated pretty much the same as a said Henry.

34 GI JANUARY 2010 Feature

ABOVE AND LEFT: Cutting units. Set up to cut exactly level John Deere 2500 greens mowers come in two variants, the John Deere will set the cutting units of its 2500 series ‘conventional’ all- hydraulic 2500B and greens mowers in the factory so they run exactly parallel ‘hybrid’ 2500E. This uses to the ground. a 48 volt alternator to drive brushless electric This is critically important in ensuring each unit will motors to power the cut at exactly the same height as its neighbour and units. The wheels use the same hydraulic ensure an even cut height across the working width of system as 2500B. the mower. In practice, it may be necessary to fine tune the units that have been in service for a while, fine parallel adjustment being built in to each unit. It is a small detail, but Deere claim this enables a 2500 mower to deliver a top class cut even when the cutting units have been in service for several years. Outline specifications: John Deere 2500B and 2500E greens mowers

Type JD2500B JD2500E

ENGINE Yanmar IDI Diesel TNV70-XJGM Yanmar IDI Diesel TNV70-XJGM Power 14.6 kW (19.6 hp) @ 3,000 RPM 14.6 kW (19.6 hp) @ 3,000 RPM Number of Cylinders 3 3 Displacement 784 cc 784 cc Fuel capacity 29.9 litres 29.9 litres WEIGHTS AND DIMENSIONS Wheelbase 129.5 cm 129.5 cm Tread Width 101.5 cm 101.5 cm Turning Radius, Uncut Circle 45.7 cm 45.7 cm Weight (less fuel and operator) 637.3 kg 659 kg

CUTTING UNITS Number 3, Patented offset design 3, Patented offset design Size 56 cm (22 in) 56 cm (22 in) Back lapping On Board Micro with speed Variable adjustment control Clip Frequency 0.71 mm/kmh (0.045-in per 0.71 mm/kmh (0.045-in per mph) with 11 blade reel; mph) with 11 blade reel; 1.14 mm/kmh (0.072-in per 1.14 mm/kmh (0.072-in per mph) with 7-blade reel mph) with 7-blade reel Front Rollers Optional, smooth, grooved Optional/smooth, machined or spiral grooved, or spiral

Cylinder diameter 12.7 cm (5 in) 12.7 cm (5 in)

Bottom blade adjustment Blade-to-cylinder Blade-to-cylinder

Height of Cut 2.0 – 19 mm (5⁄64 – 3⁄4 in) or 2.0 – 19 mm (5⁄64 – 3⁄4 in) or 16 Slight unit offset from the centre line is designed to help counter the ‘triplex 16 – 32 mm (5⁄8 – 1.25 in) – 32 mm (5⁄8 – 1.25 in) alternating the direction when doing the clean up cut will ensure the unit’s ring’; Number of Blades 7 or 11 7 or 11 do not follow the same path each time the green is mown. wheels Cylinder speed User preference User preference

JANUARY 2010 GI 35 WimbledonAdvert 14/12/09 10:17 am Page 1

Winning products... Smashing prizes!

Win an unforgettable ‘Wimbledon Weekend’ courtesy of Rigby Taylor Rigby Taylor is serving up a fantastic double for be on hand to explain how to enter the competition. visitors to their stand during Harrogate Week. An It’s not just reserved debenture seats that the winner exciting new product launch and a fantastic will receive but a hospitality package that includes competition where the prize is a pair of Centre champagne reception, à la carte luncheon, afternoon Court tickets for the 2010 Wimbledon Lawn Tennis tea with strawberries and cream, complimentary bar, STAND C23 Championship. car park pass, souvenir programme and more. And, if that wasn’t enough, the winner also receives The competition will be held over the first two days Rigby Taylor Ltd overnight accommodation at a top London Hotel. of the exhibition (19-20 January) and the winner will www.rigbytaylor.com Just visit the Rigby Taylor stand C23 where staff will be announced at 4.45 on the Wednesday.

* Only bona fida, practicing greenkeepers, groundsmen, landscapers and local authority amenity employees will be eligible to enter. Feature

A Rookie’s Guide to Harrogate Week

You’re about to attend your first ever Harrogate Week and are understandably apprehensive about how you will get on. This Rookie’s Guide to Europe’s Biggest (and best) Indoor Sports Turf Week will help sooth the nerves, according to Scott MacCallum.

It can be a daunting prospect one of the popular Workshops and the Region or sponsored by one of if you are facing it for the making sure you have a room in one the companies within the industry very first time. You’ve of the many hotels, guest houses and you can book a place on that listened to countless stories, or B&Bs. It’s always best to speak either free or for a charge that would increasing in frequency and with your BIGGA Regional Officer– beat any other method of getting to decreasing in believability, as numbers are in the magazine – to your destination. January approaches and with see if any block bookings or other If you drive, you can take advan- Christmas now behind you arrangements have been made of tage of the Park and Ride Scheme, Harrogate Week is about to which you can take advantage. You open Tuesday, Wednesday and start. will have also pre-registered for the Thursday, which enables you So how do you make the most of week to prevent you from having to to park on the Yorkshire Show trip and what can you expect from queue to get into the Halls on Show Ground on the outskirts of the town your first ever visit to the “Greatest mornings. free of charge and take a free bus Show in Sports Turf”. Getting to Harrogate cannot to the Exhibition Halls. It means To make the most of the week, be easier. Again, speak with your you avoid having to pay parking you will have booked your Con- Regional Officer and ask what charges in Harrogate. Even if you tinue to Learn programme well in options are available. It may be that are staying in a Hotel it may be advance securing your place on a bus has been arranged, either by worth considering as some of the

JANUARY 2010 GI 37 Feature

Hotels now charge to leave a car in your way to Harrogate International the day and met up for dinner in a their car parks. Centre and the Queen’s Suite where local restaurant that evening you So you’ve arrived at the fabled your Workshop will take place. are more than ready to “Hit the North Yorkshire Spa town, checked Once you have registered with the Halls” the following day. into your room and are ready to BIGGA staff and grabbed your first With so much to see it is best to start your Harrogate experience. coffee you will meet your tutor and take a little time to sit down and What next? your fellow students. plan your campaign. Well, if you have arrived the eve- If you haven’t met any of them Another useful tool in this regard ning of the night before to be in good before you can be sure that by the is the Harrogate Week website – time for the start of your Workshop first break you will be firm friends harrogateweek.org.uk – where you you are in for a treat. A stroll into – such is the togetherness created can pre-register but where you can town for a bite to eat is always an by approaching a new challenge or also take advantage of the Product experience. Chatter in the bars and task as a group. From that moment Guide which will give you a guide as restaurants has a real agronomic on Harrogate will never again be a to what you will see in the Halls. flavour and wherever you look you daunting prospect but merely one There is a load of useful informa- will see familiar faces – colleagues which sits penned into your cal- tion on the site and it is well worth from your Section or people who endar until the final date has been logging on regularly to see what’s you recognise from the magazine ticked off and you can meet up with new. or website. your friends again. Once you have arrived you can But you will be no outsider. Har- With CPD points on offer, and the use the map you are provided rogate Week is the most inclusive quality of the trainers used at Har- with either at the Show or in your of all events. No fellow turf profes- rogate Week top notch, the Continue magazine and find out in which of sional is left to sit in the corner of a to Learn programme is unrivalled the Halls the companies you wish room alone, at least not if they don’t in Europe and by taking advantage to see are located and plan the order wish to be. However, an early night of the Workshops and some of the in which you hope to visit them. is a smart move as you will wish excellent Fringe Seminars which There is a good chance the person to be on top form for the start the have become a part of Harrogate you wish to see will be involved with next day. Week in recent years a career boost someone else when you get to their In the morning, after a hearty is often a consequence. stand but it is still best to plan your Yorkshire breakfast, you will make Having made new friends during visits. An ad hoc approach can

38 GI JANUARY 2010 Tips for Harrogate Week easily lead to you missing out a That said it is will worth consid- • Speak with your Regional Officer when you decide to chunk of the show not going on to ering the BIGGA Social Night on attend Harrogate to see if there are accommodation and/or a stand you had originally intended the Tuesday night which is a fun travel opportunities in place. visiting. evening. This year is has a Wild A show is the ideal opportunity to West theme, featuring gaming • Make sure you book any Workshops you wish to attend clinch a deal for a piece of machin- tables with a prize to the person early to avoid disappointment. Popular Workshops do book ery or product as often there are who accumulates the most chips, up extremely quickly. ‘Show Deals” available which can arcade games and a bucking end up saving you quite a bit of the bronco. • Pre-register. It will avoid you having to queue up at the Halls club’s budget. Seeing representa- When you return to your place when the Show starts. tives at Harrogate is also an ideal of work it would be a wise move to opportunity to set up demos at your write a report on your Harrogate • Take advantage of the Park and Ride Scheme if you are place of work for later in the year trip outlining what you learned bringing a car to Harrogate. when you will be able to see the from your Workshop and how it machines operating in their natural will benefit you in your day-to- • Don’t be shy. You are only the “Newbie” for a very short time environment. day life and what you gleaned and everyone is very quick to bring you into the fold. As you will have discovered from from your time in the Halls – earlier in your week much of what new machinery or materials • Decide upon whom you wish to see during the Show in you take for the Week is what goes that may improve the product advance and plan accordingly. Wandering around looking on “après show” in the bars and for which you are responsible. for a company wastes time and there is a lot to pack in restaurants but it is wise to ensure It may be something that during Show days. that you don’t burn the candle at you can put into your budget both ends and are sharp for the once you’ve given it a success- • Write a report for your employer on your return identifying following day. ful demo. what you learned and have taken from your time away in More often that not your visit will The last thing you will see Harrogate. have been funded or part-funded when you leave the Halls will by your employer and you owe it be the dates of Harrogate • Enjoy yourself! But always remember the reason you are to them to make as much of your Week 2011 and you will be in Harrogate. show hours time as you possibly desperate to return with all can. your new found experience

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Troublesome turf weeds in South Australia

Dr Terry Mabbutt travels to the other side of the world in his search for exciting new turf weeds.

First visit to a new country ability to colonise turf which is not weeds in South Australia include and climate on the other side the most weed friendly of environ- a high proportion of non-native of the world always provokes ments. With the UK behind me and species arriving as contaminants excitement at the prospect of still carrying some botanist’s ‘bag- or escaping from gardens and sub- hitherto unseen plants, even gage’ I arrived in the Adelaide Hills sequently adapting to turf. Some if they are troublesome turf of South Australia intrigued about which originated in cool temperate weeds. what weeds I might find growing climates like the UK appear to have Like many plant scientists I in turf. discarded their normal perennial started out as a botanist trained I was not to be disappointed. habit to become annuals, thereby to appreciate plants for what they Turf in this relatively wet and mild allowing survival as seed through are in their natural environment, southernmost area of South Aus- the long hot and dry South Austra- but graduated out of necessity into tralia up to 700 metres above sea lian summer. applied disciplines. These included level is forced to contend with many Rosette and matt-forming weeds managing plants growing in the different weeds on par in range, with creeping stems (stolons) or wrong places such as amenity grass number and frequency to the UK. tap roots and fine-leaved plants and fine professional turf of golfing This is not surprising since apart (grasses and non-grasses) are green quality. from three to four hot dry summer clearly at the same advantage as in That apart some plant species months (December to March) turf the UK. However, there are visibly have become so well adapted to turf grass and weeds grow relatively but more Australian turf weeds that for all intents and purposes they unrestrained. with underground stems as bulbs are in their ‘natural’ environment. Distance and climate apart the and corms. They grow in winter, Bellis perennis (common daisy) in same attributes which make for flower in spring and go dormant in the United Kingdom immediately successful weeds in UK turf apply summer. As such they are clearly springs to mind. Moreover, you can in South Australia, and in some well adapted to exploit good grow- appreciate such plants for their cases to the very same species. Turf ing conditions in winter and spring

JANUARY 2010 GI 41 L&D Feature

Cape dandelion is a classic rosette turf weed Creeping oxalis is a serious weed of close cut

Flat weed (cat’s ear) appears to be a bigger problem Lamb’s tongue (ribwort plantatin) and trifoliate burr medic

One leaved Cape Tulip, pretty as a picture but a weed nevertheless The leaves of onion grass blend in well but its pink

42 GI JANUARY 2010 L&D Feature

and subsequently survive adverse by wind, animals, on clothing and ful given new plants that can grow summer conditions. Moreover most significantly by grass cutting from root fragments. bulbs and corms are an ideal mode machinery. Cape dandelion pos- A similar relationship exists for of reproduction and spread. Many sesses a tap root but apparently two plantain turf weeds, ribwort like sparaxis/harlequin flower not robust enough to survive the plantain (Plantago lanceolata) (Sparaxis sp) and one-leaved Cape summer months. called lamb’s tongue in South tulip (Moraea flaccida) [all garden Other ‘big’ rosette-forming turf Australia and common plantain (P. escapes] produce stunning spring weeds of the Asteracea need no major) called broad leaf plantain. flowers highly prized in UK horti- introduction to UK groundsman In spread, frequency and size rib- cultural and garden industries, but because Australia was ‘cursed’ wort plantain outstrips broad leaf for South Australian greenkeepers with early introduction, by seed plantain, which is opposite to the and groundsmen they are simply or through contaminated soil situation in the UK. weeds. by Taraxacum officinale (British Ribwort plantain covers turf The following account describes dandelion), Hypochoeris radicata with multitudes of rosette-forming some of the most frequently seen (common cat’s ear) and H. glabra plants which block sunlight and weeds of turf in the Adelaide Hills (smooth cat’s ear). smother grass plants beneath, it’s area of South Australia some 20km In the UK dandelion is more well developed tap-root facilitates south east of the capital Adelaide. widespread and frequent than cat’s year round survival in South Aus- All were observed and photo- ear but the opposite appears to be tralia. graphed in amenity turf. Australia the case in South Australia where Ability to maintain the same has a vibrant sports turf industry they do not appear to be as robust perennial ‘lifestyle’ exhibited in its with a sophisticated arsenal of her- or free flowering as those in the native cool temperate (UK) environ- bicides, its ‘guns’ apparently not yet UK, although the flowering period ment appears to be secret of its spiked to the degree experienced is much longer and may extend success as a turf weed in South in the UK courtesy EU (European over the entire year. As in the UK Australia, putting the plant at rela- Union) legislation. Weeds men- Taraxacum officinale is a perennial tive advantage over similar rosette tioned here can establish in amenity with robust tap root and apparently weeds including other plantains. grass, wide area sports turf including fairways and poorly managed professional turf. However, like the In the UK dandelion is more widespread and frequent UK only a minority of turf weeds than cat’s ear but the opposite appears to be the case are likely to be frequently seen in close-cut, well-managed profes- in South Australia where they do not appear to be as sional turf. robust or free flowering as those in the UK. Rosette forming weeds able to withstand the summer heat Stems above and below ground Cape dandelion, Cape weed or and drought. Cape marigold (Arctotheca calen- Cat’s ear is called ‘flat weed’ in Creeping Oxalis (Oxalis cornicu- dula) is a classic rosette-forming Australia due to its large flat basal lata) is perennial weed spreading turf weed of the family Asteraceae rosettes of leaves, and appears quickly in all types of turf and (Compositae) with an extremely more widespread, frequent and particularly persistent in low cut rapid growth rate. Deeply lobed larger than in its native UK turf grass due to flat stems (stolons) basal leaves lay flat on the ground environment. Plants spread at that creep across the soil invari- up to 25cm in length when fully speed smothering and killing turf ably escaping the mower’s blades. grown, thus translating into mas- grass underneath. Its broad basal Trifoliate leaves of three heart sive rosette diameters of 50 cm. And leaves form large flat rosettes that shaped leaflets together with the all the more impressive because merge to cover sizable areas to leave running stem habit makes creep- Cape dandelion unlike other related ‘dead spots’ when the plants die. H. ing oxalis look just like a clover, but turf weeds (eg. English dandelion) is glabra has maintained its annual it comes from a completely different an annual herb in South Australia habit. plant family called the Oxaldicaeae and clearly unable to survive the The more common H. radicata (Wood Sorrel family). The plant summer drought unaided. is predominantly perennial as in is additionally called yellow wood Like many others is an alien spe- the UK, but in drier areas of South sorrel because of its yellow flowers cies in this instance a native of the Australia adopts an ‘annual habit’, which though small are conspicu- South African Cape with a similar expiring in summer after seed set ous in close-cut turf. Seed capsules Mediterranean-type climate. and dispersal. shaped like miniature cucumbers Cape dandelion dies out in the Cat’s ears are therefore common throw ripe seeds several feet in all summer heat and drought after even in the drier areas where the directions further aiding dispersal shedding its high seed load. Seeds tap root is unable to survive the and spread. germinate in autumn and plants summer drought. H. radicata and O.corniculata is a locally abun- grow rapidly throughout the mild H. glabra are normally difficult dant weed in the UK called ‘Sleep- wet winter months. Key to survival to distinguish and widespread ing Beauty’ found mainly near and spread is its prolific spring hybridization between the species gardens from where it migrates into and early summer flowering when makes this virtually impossible. turf. In Australia it is completely poorly managed turf suddenly Limited infestations are con- cosmopolitan turf weed with many becomes a carpet of large bright trolled by severing tap roots 2-4 sub species making its exact alien brash daisies with light yellow ray cm below soil level using dedicated origin unclear. (outer) florets and black/purple hand-tools. Same procedure can be Other Oxalis species found in disc (inner) florets. used for dandelions using similar South Australian turf include O. Seeds are covered with pale brown but deeper-penetrating tools, but purpurea (purple or large flowered wool which clearly helps dispersal as in UK is generally less success- wood sorrel) native to South Africa.

JANUARY 2010 GI 43 L&D Feature

Plenty of Poa (winter grass) and a single ‘shining’ Purple flowered wood sorrel persists and spreads by corms

Soursob is one of the most difficult weeds to control Three cornered garlic grows literally everywhere

Its stunning carmine-coloured including woods, waste-land, gul- matt-forming leguminous weed is flowers open in the sun and hardly lies in gardens and in turf. Three just as widespread and problematic make for a classic turf weed but this cornered garlic (Allium triquetum) as it is in its native UK environment. garden escape is still a plant in the after its three-sided flower stalks White clover adopts the same wrong place at the wrong time and and native in the Mediterranean perennial habit despite shallow as such a weed of turf. It lacks the and Soursob (Oxalis pes-caprae) rooting. Spread is by stolons (run- stolons of creeping oxalis but has with striking yellow flowers and ners) which root at the nodes of underground stems (corms) pre- native to South Africa, can quickly the ground hugging stems where senting their own problems for weed invade and take over whole areas they come into contact with the persistence. Limited infestation of amenity turf. Soursob, so called soil. White clover’s ability to adapt can be removed by hand-digging because of the sour acidic taste to most soil types together with a because the corms are in a shallow of its leaves and flowers, has a relatively long winter flowering situation just beneath the surface long underground stem bearing period (May to September) clearly of the ground. numerous bulbs making it one of helps ensure its success as a turf Underground stems (bulbs and the most difficult weeds to control. weed in South Australia. corms) are clearly to the advantage Soursob thrives in infertile soil and There are other closely related of any turf weed in South Australia is suppressed by sound fertiliser matt-forming leguminous weeds with three to four months of extreme programmes. such as Burr Medic (Medicago heat and drought. Two bulb/corm Few areas of turf grass outside denticulate), a larger and more bearing species, both non-native the tropics escape white clover robust looking version of UK turf’s garden-escapes and now invasive (Trifolium repens) and South Aus- black medick (Medicago lupulina).. weeds, grow literally everywhere tralia is no exception. This classic Like white clover this southern

44 GI JANUARY 2010 L&D Feature

European native has small trifoli- too distant from the Allicaeae (onion and flowers profusely throughout Golden Key ate leaves, the middle top leaflet on family). Onion grass is a small erect winter, finally seeding in spring Sponsors a longer stalk than the other two. perennial herb bearing extremely when heads can cause an uneven Flowers are small yellow-orange fine linear leaves with thickened playing surface on the fine turf and pea-like in solitary clusters on edges and a prominent midrib. You such as golf greens. Perennial types thin axillary stems. would not know it was there until of winter grass can become estab- Burr medic lacks the stolons of spring when turf starts to sparkle lished in some fine turf situations. white clover but compensates with with numerous tiny ‘star-shaped’ (6 Winter grass continues to thwart an efficient annual habit includ- petals) pink or rosy purple flowers. those greenkeepers striving for ing prickly seed pods possessing South Australian turf facing hot 100% bent-grass playing surfaces. hooked burrs which attach them- dry summers and wet but essen- It remains widely present on greens selves to virtually anything they tially frost free winters offers the (average golf green throughout Aus- touch. ideal ‘meeting point’ for grasses of tralia has been variously estimated Burr medic is becoming more both temperate and tropical origins. to comprise 40-80% Poa annua) problematic with high infesta- As such it has become overbur- and is common on fairways. Silver Key Sponsors tions slowing down mowing and dened with alien grass species from ‘Summer grass’ infestation is increasing the volume of clippings. almost every part of the world, with mainly by Paspalum dilatatum Successful management requires rough grass weeds in turf generally a tufted perennial tropical grass effective control before plants come divided ‘winter’ grass or ‘summer’ originating in South America. It is into flower during spring. grass depending on when they grow nominally frost sensitive but since Grass plant look-alikes and the and reproduce. South Australian winter tempera- real thing Main ‘winter grass’ requires no tures rarely fall below freezing it can Plants with grass-like growth introduction. Poa annua (called survive winter in a dormant state. habits and leaves have a real ‘winter grass in Australia) crops Moreover it is relatively drought advantage as turf weeds, not least up everywhere in South Australia tolerant and a combination of because they are difficult to detect where it behaves as a winter annual watering and high nitrogen during and therefore manage. as opposed to a summer annual summer sees growth and infesta- One such weed is onion grass or in the UK. It flowers in winter and tion take off. Seed is sticky and Guildford grass (Romulea rosea), dies out in summer, although some spread easily on shoes clothing another South African native and perennial sub species are reported and grass cutting machinery. so called because its leaves look like on golfing greens. Strict hygiene with machinery and This article comes to you courtesy of the those on onion or chive seedlings. As in the UK controversy contin- footwear scrupulously cleaned BIGGA Learning and This monocotyledonous species ues over its value as a constituent of after working in Paspalum-infested Development Fund. with bulbs (corms) is from the plant golf greens. Winter grass germinates areas of turf is essential to minimise Thankyou to all our key family Iridaceae, and therefore not in the autumn and grows quickly seed dispersal and weed spread. sponsors

www.harrogateweek.org.uk

at Harrogate Week 2010 Sunday 17 to Thursday 21 January 2010

ndustry e Turf I d Fin s an ort Sp he r t fo nt Visit our ve Harrogate Week E page on... n o ti a c u Venue d E Harrogate ip International h Centre s g a North Yorkshire l F England e h T

HW10AD_CONTLEARN_190x136(type_area).indd 1 20/10/09 14:45:47

JANUARY 2010 GI 45 VOLUNTEERS WANTED

FOR BIGGA SUPPORT TEAM The Open Championship, Old Course, St Andrews, July 15-18, 2010.

This is your opportunity to work at wood College, Cupar, - but after that trans- members only. Younger members, relatively The Home of Golf and be available port to and from the golf course, shared new to the Association, will also be actively to assist the St Andrews Links accommodation and meals will be provided considered. Management Team with the for the duration of the Championship. To apply please complete this application preparation of the course and be a You will be expected to report for duty by form and send to: Scott MacCallum, BIGGA part of the on-course team which 5pm on Wednesday, July 14, and be avail- HOUSE, Aldwark, Alne, York, YO61 1UF. accompanies each match ensuring able until the close of play on Sunday – a For further information contact Scott on: bunkers are raked in a correct and meal and bed and breakfast will be supplied 01347 833800 or email: [email protected] professional manner. for the Sunday evening and Monday morn- Closing Date for applications for The Open It will be your responsibility to make your ing if required. Support Team is February 1, 2010, and you way to the team’s base for the week – Elm- This opportunity is open to full BIGGA will be notified later in the month.

Name ...... Yes No Golf Club ...... I have been a BIGGA member for more than three years.....q.....q Position ...... Age...... I serve, or have served in the last three years, on a Section/Region Committee...... q.....q BIGGA Mem Number ...... I am enrolled on BIGGA’s CPD Scheme...... q.....q Email Address ...... I have attended three of the last five Harrogate Weeks...... q.....q Mobile Number ...... I am/have been a member of the PGA I have applied for/appeared Championship Support Team...... q.....q on the team at: Applied .Successful I am willing to be a mini bus driver Turnberry, 2009...... q...... q...... (You must have held a full driving license Royal Birkdale 2008...... q...... q...... for three years and be over 25 years of age.)...... q.....q Carnoustie 2007...... q...... q...... Hoylake, 2006...... q...... q...... I am an overseas Member...... q.....q St Andrews, 2005...... q...... q......

Note: A place on the team is open to all full BIGGA members but priority will be given to the more active members. Subject to the availability of sufficient numbers of experienced team members no regular team member will be selected for more than three teams in succession. A limited number of places will be made available to overseas members. Please ensure that you have spoken to your golf club or Course Manager prior to applying and have arranged the time off. Should you be chosen you must send a passport picture of yourself to BIGGA HQ as the R&A now have photographic ID for all Open Championship workers.

46 GI JANUARY 2010 GKI LF3800 A4 ad:Layout 1 10/12/2009 15:33 Page 1

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Getting Back to the Cutting Edge

Former greenkeeper and current lecturer, Jonathan Knowles, raises an old question: Is greenkeeping horticulture, agriculture or ecology?

Is greenkeeping horticulture, and green hardness. lishing greens were also included, agriculture or ecology? Not long after, Canaway & Baker and this, for me, is where the study Not my question, but a (1992) tested five common turfgrass is very interesting. The largest pro- consideration that was raised species and tested which grasses portion of Festuca spp. was found around 20 years ago. It was provided the ‘fastest’ paced greens. in greens less than 5 years old, and suggested in a paper at the A sward of Festuca rubra ssp. the dominance diminished over the Proceedings of the World Litoralis was the fastest surface, age of the greens with the ingress of Scientific Congress of Golf while Poa annua consistently was P. annua. Moreover, a later study 1990 that greenkeeping the slowest in the trials. (Hagley et al,. 2002) found that management has much in A few years later, a large study older greens greater than 70 years common with functional was carried out (Baker et al., 1995); were populated with the perennial approach of ecology. in part they investigated what grass P.annua var. reptans. It’s an interesting point isn’t species inhabit UK golf greens. I believe most greenkeepers will it? Canaway (1990), additionally More than half the greens were agree and will have experience in offered a succinct golf greenkeeping dominated by P. annua. The Fes- seeing a newly established green management plan that centred on tuca spp. was found on the Links whether turf or seeded go from playing quality. The playing quality and Heathland. Agrostis spp. had high a content of Festuca spp. to an was defined as a study of the ball around a third coverage on more apparently very low representation. roll, ball impact behaviour (spin), than half the greens. Young estab- Why is there a diminishing of the

48 GI JANUARY 2010 Feature

Festuca over the time, while weeds heights of cut for the golf green. ABOVE: The TORO Turf inaccurate perception of the sward ingress? Should this be a question However, it is not usual for authors Evaluator for measuring the composition by an inspection of a effective height of cut of greenkeeping practices and is to state whether it is an effective ‘walk over’ compared with the Opti- this related to a holistic manage- height or a bench setting measure- cal Quadrat. ment principle, as suggested? ment. If it is a bench setting being How does this matter? Well, in While I accept that greenkeeping recommended then the variables consideration, how can the effec- and the condition of a golf green is of soil moisture content, grass tiveness of an over-seeding program subject to many, many variables, coverage, grass type, and machine be measured, without an accurate the aims of my research was to type/weight need to be equated so starting point or a measure for evaluate whether cutting heights that the resulting effective height is the present coverage? Then, the can have a negative effect on the optimum for health and play. natural progression is to be able to sward, viz. encouraging P.annua, The species composition of the value the maintenance regime that disease, and slow putting speeds green was then measured using is implemented, for example, is the etc. an Optical Point Quadrat, with the regime causing a positive or nega- In the research, more than two- species being recorded at a random tive effect on the establishment of thousand grass identifications hundred per green, see Plate 2. This the desired species? were made across twelve differ- also allowed an opportunity to delve These findings were consistent ent golf courses of England and into the head greenkeeper’s mind, with Baker et al,.(1995) where a Scotland. An understanding of the and compare their perception of significant proportion of the head mowing practices was needed from the composition with the findings greenkeepers distinguished a each site, this involved looking at of the Optical Quadrat. A third of poor green from a quality one by the bench setting and the effective the head greenkeepers considered the number of bare areas, and not height of cut. P.annua to be less than 65% cover- the species composition or playing The bench setting is the set up by age, however most perceived it to quality. adjustment of the mowers rollers to have high ground coverage. Stimpmeter readings were taken the bottom blade and the effective The observations did show at each green, again this was to height cut is simply the height at that there were cases of very high about the author affirm any trends and compare which the grass stands following a P.annua content greater than with the earlier studies of grass Jonathan Knowles has been mow a TORO Turf Evaluator was 93% coverage, but Agrostis tenuis involved in Greenkeeping species and ball roll. The readings used for this, see Plate 1. is well represented with a third of for 17 years, first as a were calibrated to the USGA recom- greenkeeper and latterly It was then important to compare the greens making up more than at Myerscough College. mendations for regular play. and test the two methods, especially a half of the counts. During the Recently he has been With the effective heights of working on a research as they were found to be different. study, most head greenkeepers project that discusses the cut categorised as low (2-3 mm), effects of cutting height on medium (4-5 mm) and high (>6 The effective height of cut was gen- were surprised by the counts of the the grass species in golf erally greater by 1 mm. How is this Agrostis spp. species and, likewise, greens and the associated mm) it was possible to analyse the trends for adapted data of the three most common spe- important? Well, we all read texts the lower counts of P.annua. It ecological methods for and research on recommended was apparent that there was an greenkeeping. cies (P. annua, Agrostis spp. and

JANUARY 2010 GI 49 Feature

Figure 1. Linear trends in the species decline and ingress over the changes in the categories for the effective height of cut.

Figure 2. Green speeds and the frequency of occurrence for the different heights of cut. The green speeds have been calibrated for ‘regular play’. The highest heights of >6 mm has provided the fastest surfaces, cutting at a range of 4-5 mm has occurred in most speed categories, while cutting at a 2-3 mm has only provided fast surfaces.

50 GI JANUARY 2010 Feature

Festuca spp.) and the composition within each category and overall, see Figure 1. It was found that there was a significant relationship between the effective height and the sward composition. In the low category, P.annua had the greatest population, and Festuca had nil. In the high category, P.annua was comparatively diminished against the Agrostis and Festuca spp. The medium category was very interesting, especially as it was the most popular category. This could be defined as the transitional zone for Festuca ingress and P.annua egress. Agrostis was shown to be in equal population between the low and medium height. However, in the high category, Agrostis out-competed the P.annua by 3:1. Indeed, in the high category, the combined Festuca and Agrostis out-competed P.annua by almost 4:1. Whereas, in the low category P.annua was out-competing Agros- tis by 3:1. This not only showed that the most popular effective height of cut was 4-5 mm, it also showed that cut used as 5 mm (more than likely a monoculture of P.annua and the ABOVE: Plate2: The Optical Point Quadrat Festuca inhabits where P.annua bench set, so the effective height associated problems with the trou- does not and vice versa. It also would be around 6 mm). blesome weed are well documented showed that Agrostis almost main- So then, what is it to be: horticul- (Adams & Gibbs, 1994 and Hagley tains a consistent status through ture, agriculture or ecology? Well, et al,. 2002). But, fast greens are the changing heights, although in conclusion there is a trend for achievable with perennial sustain- it’s very difficult to conclude that adapted holistic and functional able species. The cost of reaching raising the height of cut will lead ecological principles in turf manage- the objective of the fast putting to greens with higher proportions ment. For example, as greenkeepers perennial surface is to provide the of Festuca and Agrostis and much we recognise the Power Rule or Self- turf environment for Festuca to of this possibly relates to the mul- Thinning (Danneberger, 1993 cited thrive, in turn causing P.annua to tivariate practices of greenkeeping in Lush, 1990). In turf culture, this egress, and the Agrostis spp. can and geological location etc. can be interpreted as an increase play nurse. Remember, by cutting Importantly, however, it has been in the cutting height increases the at an effective height in the region possible to prove that a lowered leaf area and as the height of cut is of 6 mm is one of the multivariate effective height of cut will have a reduced, the density of the biomass maintenance practices. The over- P.annua composition, as shown in increases. Again, a recent example seeding of Festuca rubra spp. with Figure 1. is the Disturbance Theory (Bechelet Agrostis spp. preferable tenuis at Again, it’s worth noting the inter- & Windows, 2007), which origi- the optimum time with the general section of P.annua and Agrostis at nates from an ecological study of renovation program should also the medium category and the oppo- British Species (Grime et al, 1988), be considered. As identified (and site values of Festuca and P.annua whereby the intensity of a stress is it could go without saying), there in the low category. multiplied by the intensity of the are many variables to affect the The greens cut at an effective disturbing environment, leading golf greens’ composition, so adjust- height of cut between 2-3 mm had to vegetation that is governed by ments to nutrient input and the proven to provide Stimpmeter read- the environmental stresses. Spe- management of the precipitation ings for a fast putting surface see cifically mentioned is mowing pres- and infiltration rate will also need Figure 2. Again, this reflects a very sures, these are identified as one of consideration. Nevertheless, I do large study that was carried out in the variable disturbance pressures realise how important these factors the U.S (Throssell, 1981) indicating governed by the mowing height, are; the research revealed these that low cut greens provide a fast quality and frequency. Indeed, a were seemingly less influential on surface. Greens cut at between raised height of cut is identified as the sward composition than the 4-5 mm varied greatest in speeds a less intensive pressure on the turf cutting height. between medium-slow, medium, (Bechelet, 2008). Finally, remember to monitor medium-fast and fast. Greens cut The confirmation here is that the sward composition and ingress at >6 mm, varied between medium- changing the height of cut has a as accurately and as practically as fast and fast see Figure 2. This relationship with the species com- possible, at least randomly sample reflects the findings of the Canaway position of the sward. Of course, the species composition of the & Baker (1992) as we know that there is a relationship with cutting greens. It is at this point that true the turfgrass genii they concluded very low and having fast greens, management of sward composition as fastest are in this category, the however, this research suggests is borne, and remember, a ‘walk 1992 study also details the height of this will be a predominance or even over inspection’ will not cut it!

JANUARY 2010 GI 51 A Qu i c k Gu i d e t o ... Li n e Ma r k i n g When selecting a linemarking system, the first question to ask is: ‘Does the system suit my specific needs and budget? Peter Bridgewater discusses.

It is vital that the correct choice is made and, after careful assessment, the final selection is the one that suits your needs and circumstances.

Which system to choose, spray or transfer wheel? A system that applies paint as a spray through a spray-marking machine, is generally used in a multi pitch situation where speed and the number of pitches marked is preferred to quality of line. However, with a spray marker, the line usually only has to be marked one way as the spray covers both side of the leaf blade.

Transfer Wheel markers Transfer Wheel markers are probably used more often within the professional sporting All the various options have their support- ranks where there is more time to mark outers but there is a cost that must be justifiedEconomical Option a pitch and on which there is a consistentand in this aspect ‘You get what you pay for’. A paint with better quality ingredients, growth of grass to produce a line. which will obviously have a higher unit cost It is also important to achieve a highly visual Cost per pitch of £1.60/litre diluted in water at, say, 4 part effect, especially if the game is televised. water to 1 paint mix (5 litres in total) will be Transfer wheel application only coats one When it comes to paint selection it is just as economical as when applying 10 litres side of the leaf blade so a return pass is oftenimportant to consider the cost per pitch of the the actual cost of marking the pitch would be required, a practice that take twice the time. operation NOT the unit cost of the container. just £3.20. There will be a paint to suit every need and budget but ask questions, trial the paint and Paint selection see if it does ‘What it says on the tin!’ Don’tPresentation: just When it comes to paint selection, a massivepurchase products because that’s what you From the professional turf professional selection is available. have always purchased. to an enthusiastic amateur volunteer, pitch These range from powders that are mixed presentation is everything. The linemark- with water, pre-mixed ready to use liquids Do the maths ing operation should produce the whitest, and dilutable concentrates. straightest lines that budget and time will In addition there is the bag-in-the-box ‘Do the maths’: Paint with a low unit cost of allow. option, which has made such an impact say 0.39p/litre used neat in a transfer wheel since its launch. marker on wet muddy pitch will use around For further information contact Rigby There is also the option of putting down10 litres at a cost of £3.90. Taylor Ltd an initial line using a white marking paint This however is not the true cost as by using FREEFONE 0800 424 919 containing a dilute amount of glyphosate. a lower quality paint the pitch will probably www.rigbytaylor.com There is only one MAPP approved producthave to be marked twice doubling the costs. Preline, recommended for this purpose.

52 GI JANUARY 2010 www.harrogateweek.org.uk

The Largest Indoor Turf Maintenance and Sports Facility Exhibition in Europe incorporating... An Extensive Five Day Education Programme

Visit our Harrogate Week page on... Exhibition Education Tuesday 19 January 2010 17-21 January 2010 Wednesday 20 January 2010 Thursday 21 January 2010 hinking • Fresh T racts Venue Cont Harrogate to ts in International Centre tac on North Yorkshire n C England ur • T s es in us B r o f n io s s a P

HW10AD2_A4_BLEED.indd 1 18/12/09 10:48:56 NEW Products GI The latest products on the market reviewed A new Turbine Blower marks another chapter in AgriMetal’s history of turf care product development and gets its UK launch during UK Launch at BTME at Harrogate Week. The new heavy duty blower is Harrogate Week powered by a Kohler 23HP petrol engine and features a wireless remote control unit that provides control of the engine/turbine RPM and directional control of the air chute. Each remote control works on a unique frequency, so multiple units can be operated in the same area without suffering interfer- ence. An oblong shaped air outlet provides great directional control via the unbreakable, composite mate- rial air chute and the aluminium turbine itself is electronically balanced for years of trouble free service and performance.

www.agrimetal.com

OARS/correctOARS For the past two years, Aqua- Aid Inc. has been in dispute with its former distributors, Tower Chemicals Limited (now in liquidation) and its directors, in relation to its OARS branded product. The parties have now settled this dispute amicably. While correctOARS is no longer available for purchase, the former directors of Tower Chemicals Limited, David and Edward Goldstone, have issued an apology for any confusion caused and made a statement clarifying that: • OARS was and never has been anything to do with cor- rectOARS • CorrectOARS was not an Aqua-Aid product and was never supplied by Aqua-Aid Water Water Everywhere • Tower Chemicals is no The Raycam TrunkPump. from ported to the flood site, making and independently to remove longer an OARS distributor and Campey Turfcare Systems. it a one person job. The 3-inch the excess from troublesome Tower Sports (Europe) Limited comes into its own during in plastic centrifugal pump can standing pools of water, relieve has never been an OARS dis- these days where flooding is handle salt water and chemi- the pressure from small lakes tributor a much more regular occur- cals, has 25 feet of suction head or ponds on golf courses or in • OARS was a different prod- rance. Fully portable and PTO and can efficiently pump 1100 parks and return the site to uct to correctOARS; and driven, it can be mounted on litres per minute. its designated use as soon as Aqua-Aid and its distributors most tractors by a three point So even when the weather possible, with the minimum of are fully entitled to incorporate linkage. throws its worst at you, the fuss. the Milliken patented technol- The pump, hoses and opera- Raycam TrunkPump gives ogy into its OARS product. tor can then easily be trans- you the facility to react quickly www.campeyturfcare.com

54 GI JANUARY 2010 Toro get Tough with the New New Workman HD Series Launch Traditionally, rootzone Built to handle even the toughest include the i-beam shaped DeDion ponents and ensuring the vehicle’s mixes for intensively of tasks, Toro’s new Workman HD rear axle, an innovative automotive trouble-free long life. used sports areas Series of heavy duty utility vehicles technology that isolates the engine, Further design benefits such as have comprised of is tougher than ever. Comprising transmission and main frame from a truss-like front space frame, inte- sand amended with two-wheel and four-wheel drive all load forces, thereby eliminating grated wheel bearings and hydrau- either soil or peat to diesel options, the Workman potential overstress in these com- lic disc brakes on all four wheels for increase the water HDX-D boasts the highest total greater stopping power ensure and nutrient retention carrying load in the industry the Workman HD Series utility characteristics. together with a towing capacity of vehicles combine remarkable However, neither of up to 1,588kg/3,500lb. performance with a smooth, these resources is Replacing its predecessors comfortable ride. renewable. There is the Workman 3300 and 4300, significant interest key features of the HD Series www.toro.com in the use of green compost as an organic amendment in rootzone mixes, as it is sustainable and environmentally sound. Accordingly, Bathgate Silica Sand developed Re-Root, which has recently completed a thorough independent evaluation by the STRI on the physical and chemical properties of the product, especially regarding water and nutrient retention, drainage, grass growth and turf quality. The results obtained were compared with conventional blended sand/soil mixes. Re-root led to significantly quicker grass establishment than the sand/soil rootzone treatments. Although Saturated Hydraulic Boom Time for conductivity was measured at 213 mm/h, New Holland concentrations of the critical nutrients were New Holland nevertheless higher celebrates 45 years for Re-root than in the of involvement in conventional sand/soil the compact tractor rootzones. In particular, sector in 2010, and will Re-Root retained 40% mark the occasion by more Nitrogen. Greater launching the Boomer chlorophyll index 3000 series, featuring values were exhibited the award winning in the Re-Root turf EasyDrive continuously in comparison to the variable transmission. conventional sand:soil The tractor allows mixes. drivers to match exact Re-Root and its speed to every task counterpart Re-Dress, without being fixed to a a similarly amended gear, thus maximising Top Dressing, are now productivity. available as renewable products. www.newholland.com www.bathgatesilica.co.uk

JANUARY 2010 GI 55 SectionAround The Green Notes Please email your notes to [email protected] by the 5th of the month All the latest news from your Section Around The Green

Scottish Region writing Gordon McKie is doing a A couple of items to mention interested then contact any of similar exercise in China, along which happened over the last the committee members: Brian with Elmwood College, a report few months Central Hillan; Douglas MacIntosh; on that next month. The AGM was held at East John Barr; Brian Bolland; David A presentation by Stan Kilbride Golf Club, on October McBride; John Brown; Derek Zontek, of the USGA Green Sec- 29, and 25 people attended, Duthie; Gordon Howatt; Gavin tion, sometime in April is on the which isn’t too bad as things Jarvis; Fraser Ross and myself cards. More details later. go. Thanks must be extended I hope to hear from you in the Gordon Moir to Symbio and Rigby Taylor for near future and look forward sponsoring the day and giving to the various comments from I trust everyone had a good two excellent talks. Thanks members Christmas and New Year and are also to Brian Bolland, and East Stuart Taylor now looking forward to BTME. Kilbride Golf Club, for hosting In December, the Section had the event this is very much an interesting evening seminar appreciated. Northern Region at Elmwood with Martin Ward, The annual Match against of Symbio, talking about West the Clubmasters was held at Compost teas. This was hastily Cardross golf club on November arranged due to the short notice Happy New Year all, I hope you 2 on a pretty wet day and con- of Martin’s availability and we are now dieting hectically after gratulations must be expressed are fortunate to have good email you’re over indulgence during to John Barr and his staff for communication along with the the festive period or you’re out enabling this match to go ahead. info on our website, www.big- jogging trying to shed the few Well done lads. Four teams took North Wales gacentralsection.org.uk which pounds around the waistline. part with the matches finishing allows us to contact people in As nobody else is willing to two a piece - the clubmasters January comes but once a this way. undertake the task of penning retained the trophy as they were year and thank goodness for that To stay in the loop it is vital a few words each month and the previous winners. Could with new year resolutions that members keep us informed of the fact that the whole of last members who are interested in last if you’re lucky a couple of any changes to their contact year not a single footnote was taking part in this event next days, cold short days and longer details. This took the place of submitted I have now been year please inform a committee even colder nights but we must the appraisal training which giving the opportunity to try member as each year the club- look on the bright side (well we has now been postponed until and stir up some enthusiasm masters have at least 12 people are greenkeepers do we really the New Year, it is hoped that we within the ranks of the West available and we struggle to find have a choice but to look on will run this course sometime Section. Therefore if you have numbers. the bright side!), new year, new in February, in association with any information to pass on let The Ingliston show this start, lessons learned during the CMAE, at the same venue me know about it by contacting year wasn’t quite as busy as the last year put to practice to (Old Course Hotel, St Andrews). me via phone 07790823914 or previously seen but numbers make this coming year possibly Further details will appear on 0141-942-5554, or e mail me at appeared to be satisfactory, I the best yet. website in near future. [email protected] hope all that attended enjoyed In November, we held the In early December I was Stuart Taylor in case you were the experience and were able to Christmas tournament at Caldy fortunate to visit the Manitoba wondering. conduct their business satisfac- Golf Club and on the what Turf Conference in Winnipeg, I hope you are all keeping well torily. seemed like the only dry day in Canada, to give a couple of and looking forward to a good The Annual Dinner on that month, 56 greenkeepers presentations. Including me season this year. Hopefully the November 27, held at The Loft and guest played what can only there were only three speakers financial situation will change in Ashton Lane, was attended be described as a completely to cover the three days and it slightly in the next few months by 23 people and all who turned blemish proof course, followed was fascinating to discover that to give some optimism for the up seemed to have a good time. by a scrumptious meal in the although from different fields we future as I’m most of us have There was some comment that club house all thanks go to Carl were all advocating the practical, suffered from budget restraints. people didn’t know about the Crocher and his team for the cultural approach and also that Well, let’s try not to be to event and I would apologise if exemplary course and to the the Canadians face the same depressive, I look forward to this was the case but, at the clubhouse staff for the food and problems as we do in the UK. seeing a few of you at Harrogate same time, who did you contact warm hospitality shown to us You may think Winnipeg in this month and would pass on to find out about it, as the event all. December would have been a my congratulations to John is held each year at roughly the The results of the golf day difficult (and cold) gig but I Brown and David McBride on same time? are: 1. Stuart Yarwood (who found the 100 attendees to be receiving the Patrons’ Award One for the future will be also did pretty at the raffle table extremely motivated and enthu- and will hope you enjoy the at football match against the too although I’m not bitter… siastic which made the whole trip to the show. Thanks to our Ayrshire Section some time in not much anyway!), Ian Taylor, trip very enjoyable. At the time of many Patrons. March/April. If there are people Andrew (Acorn) Cornes and Rob

56 GI JANUARY 2010 Cooper, 84pts; 2. Phil Watson, Holt, who is based at Birchwood about and the different styles Eifion Ellis, Will Evans and John Golf Club, was pleased to accept of writing, having just joined Moody, 82pts; 3. Jez Hughes, the post and our Vice Chairman the BIGGA committee for the Johnny Evans, Peter Larter and is Peter McVicar, who will take East Midlands I now find myself Huw Brown, 82pts over from Adie in two years time. thinking franticly of things to Nearest the Pin went to Jim Two new additions to the com- write about, hoping that it at Adamson on the 2nd and Ian mittee are Mike Davie and Alec least maybe interesting to some Midland Taylor on the 17th greens. Davis. A warm welcome to you of you reading this. The AGM was also held after both. These will be the last notes Firstly, I would like to start by Well I am afraid that as usual the meal and with 27 members I will be compiling as Peter has saying a few over due congratu- I have left our notes to the very present, various reports where kindly decided to take on this job lations to David James and his last moment, if indeed not too given on the state of our Section next year. Thanks Peter. wife, Biba, for the birth of their late. The reason for such being and we’re looking pretty healthy Please think about attending son, Connor, and to Colin that here at Stratford we have and the Section committee was Harrogate this year if you can Crowther and his wife, Clare, on been reconstructing a tee and voted back on as is. bring your Green Chairman the birth of their baby daughter, laying turf that must have come We held a half day seminar at or Secretary they might be Chloe. Both babies are doing from Cockermouth in Cumbria! The Welsh College of Horticul- impressed at how professional well. So all I have time to report is the ture in Northop on December we all are. I am sure they will Our Autumn Comp and results of our Christmas event 9 on the subject of cylinder enjoy the show. AGM was held at Matlock GC held at the wonderful venue of sharpening and the importance Chris Sheehan on October 15. The damp Woburn. of sharp units in greenkeeping. and foggy day wasn’t able to Thanks to Woburn Golf Club We have to thank Bernhard’s curb people’s enthusiasm and for affording us the opportunity for giving the seminar and the a great day was had by all in to play such an internationally College for hosting the event. attendance. The day was won renowned and respected course, The bus to Harrogate is due to by Mark Blacknell, Mick Marvell as wonderfully presented by run again this year but will only and Tim Bloodworth – putting John Clarke, Course Manager, be put on if enough seats are Northern his local knowledge to good use! and his expert team. You must booked so please get your seat Our thanks go to Tim and his all be very proud of the course reservations to Jez Hughes by Hello all. Hope you’ve all had a team for presenting the course you produce, tremendous. The January 10 at the latest. good 2009 golf season. We hope in such fantastic condition and famous Duke’s Course was our Well that seems to bring us up to see you all at this year’s golf also to our sponsors for the host and what a pleasure. As to date for now but if you have events. A few changes to note event – Boughton Loam, British two tees were employed we were any news to share with the sec- on the Northern Section Com- Seed Houses, Henton & Chattell blessed with two Mr Starters, tion please get in touch contact mittee. Firstly, to thank Adam and Sheriff Amenity. our thanks to John Hammond details below. for his good work over the last The AGM was largely unevent- and Mike Whitehouse. The All the best until next month! few years as Secretary and I’m ful with Asa English, Andy Marsh main prize table was sponsored Pete Maybury petemayb66@ pleased to see him carry on as and Tim Allard standing down by Mark Chamberlain/Tacit. aol.com Treasurer. Also a welcome to from the committee. Thanks for The results being; 1. A. Jones Johnny Evans Richard Smith onto the Com- all your effort and input over the & A. Brougham; 2. T. Cheese & [email protected] mittee. past few years guys. They have R. Beacham; 3. M. Hughes & C. I hope by the time you read been replaced by Peter Smith, Lowe. N.T.P,s were sponsored by this report we will have news of Greg Skinner and Matthew both Tacit x2 and N. Tyler/Sher- your 2010 golf fixtures and a Wormald. riff Amenity x2, M. Chamberlain, date for a spring seminar. The education day that was A. Jones x2, and J. Hughes. Our Hope to see you all at BTME at held at Forest Hill Golf Club saw thanks to Turners Groundcare Harrogate. a great attendance from many for their usual halfway house North West Just time to wish all a belated golf clubs. I think everyone who refreshment (including Black- Merry Christmas and hope you attended would agree that the thorn Berry Mother’s ruin) with We held the AGM and Bert all have a Happy New Year. topics were very interesting and Russ and David. Cross Trophy at Wilmslow Golf Any news or gossip, please created great debate. It was also nice to see S. Mac- Club on December 3 contact me. I would like to draw people’s Callum, from H.Q, who played The day started well and then Frank Stewart attention to the article in last and gave a brief rundown of how down came the rain and sleet. 72 West Park Grove month’s magazine about the the organisation is addressing 41 members started but only Roundhay fund that was set up so that the current climate at this dif- 18 finished the full round. The LS8 2OY greenkeepers could possibly ficult time. winner was Tim Johnson, who Tel: 07947 401278 have a course to call their own. The results of the Aggregate works at Wilmslow Golf Club, What a dream! What an inspi- Trophy’s were calculated as; Tim also won Nearest the Pin rational idea, that if successful Best Gross: Mike Hughes. Best with the Longest Drive going Midland Region could change our industry for Nett: Gary ”Board Member” to Spencer Lloyd Pye. Many the better. Wouldn’t it be nice if Cunningham. Well done to you thanks to Bathgate’s for their greenkeepers around the coun- both and thanks for supporting sponsorship over the years. try pulled together and made the the Section over the whole year. A special thank you to Steve dream come true. And finally, just a little hint Oultram and the Wilmslow Golf If anyone has anything that into that to which I shall be Club for allowing us to have our they think is worth mentioning, considering for your thoughts AGM and golf day there every East Midlands it can be anything, anything next month, formal education year. at all then please e-mail: Andy and the opportunities that While we are on the subject of Over the three years I have de Wet at biggaeastmidlands@ greenkeeping as a profession thanks a mention to the North been greenkeeping I have always hotmail.com. not only provides, but indeed West Committee who work very read the “Around the Green” Matt Wormald influences and inspires even the hard on your behalf. We have a articles and found it fascinating most reluctant of us to rise to the new Chairman this year, Adie the different topics people write challenge and reap the rewards

JANUARY 2010 GI 57 Around The Green both professionally and person- times are yet to be confirmed but strategically placed lakes, wispy or would like more information ally. Should anyone have any I will keep you posted. We were rough and wind make this a real about the section and forthcom- thoughts on such please contact going to have an extra golf day challenge. Combine that with ing events in 2010 you only have me on; sean.mcdade@homecall. this year but we couldn’t find its natural beauty and you have to log in to bbogreenkeepers. co.uk . Thank you Dave, but you another venue within walking all the course you’ll ever need, a co.uk your cyberspace details will have to wait until next month distance of the others! perfect end to 2009 as the Sec- and e-mail address with the mate. Such requires more that a The Section Committee would tion relished the chance to play Secretary Adam King who will few hours of consideration, it’s also like to take this opportunity this wonderful course. only be to pleased to keep you not a foundation mate; it’s what to thank Frank Scullion, of A record turnout of 108 was informed and up to date. Adam a foundation’s for! Dunstable Downs GC, most recorded to battle it out for can be contacted on ajk@radley. Wishing all a happy new year, sincerely for his contribution to The Avoncrop Cup in Texas org.uk Sean McDade the Section. Frank is stepping Scramble format, followed by a See you all at BTME in a few down from the committee this roast dinner and AGM. Barry weeks time and wishing you all a year after many, many years of McCluskey, from Avoncrop, great start to the New Year! service looking after the mem- presented the 1st prizes and the Mark Day bers interests and enabling the results were as follows: [email protected] Section to function effectively. First place went to The Magic Thanks very much Frank, it is Pencil Team who named them- very much appreciated and we selves Making Up The Numbers Mid-Anglia wish you well. from Maidenhead GC with 55.9; South East I look forward to seeing those second place to the Golf and Turf Region Happy New Year to one and of you that are travelling to mob led by James Moore and Co all, I trust you all had a restful Harrogate for BTME later this and third to The Angry Mob from This year’s South East and peaceful Christmas. Let’s month, let’s hope it doesn’t Sonning GC. Region’s Annual Gentlemen’s hope that Spring comes early snow. TTFN The putting green competition Dinner will be held at Walton this year and any troubles you Craig Spooner run by Peter Helps, from Turner Heath Golf Club on Friday, encounter are minor ones. Sorry craig.spooner@limagrain. Groundcare, was won by Sean March 5. it’s a little while after the event co.uk Haynes representing Bearwood For details or entry forms but here is the report from the Lakes GC please contact South East Autumn Tournament held at A big thank you goes to The Regional Administrator Clive Mid-Herts Golf Club on October Leaderboard Group and Adam Osgood on 01737 819343 mob 7. A field of 34 contested the King, our Secretary, for co-ordi- 07841 948410 or cliveosgood@ event and the weather was not nating this excellent venue and yahoo.co.uk bad at all. 39pts was enough to for the courtesy of the course BMW PGA Championship secure victory for P. Compton, which providing the Section Anyone wishing to volunteer from Stevenage Golf Club, B,B&O with fantastic golf and catering to be a part of the BMW PGA with Nigel Phelan, St Andrews facilities which were enjoyed by Championship Support Team Hospitals GC, on 37pts coming Another year is over - Happy all on the day. for the final two days of the a good second and D.Hodkin, New Year to you all. The season A big thank you to Nigel and Championship at The Went- Knebworth GC, in a respectable of 2009 has passed and the Shawn, and all the greenkeeping worth Club on Saturday May third with 36pts. There were nativity plays and panto’s are staff for preparing the course to 22 and Sunday May 23, should prizes for Nearest the Pin on all now just a faded memory. Father a first class standard and ensur- contact Clive on the above num- five par threes with Geoff James, Christmas has hammered his ing we all had a great day out. bers. A limited number will also Geoff Fenn, Nigel Phelan, Kevin credit card – eaten one to many Thank you to all our sponsors be required as an emergency Armstrong and Steve Mason mince pies and now down to throughout 2009. We have had squad for the opening two days proving to be the most deadliest Turkey pot noodles and Sudoko great support from the trade Thursday May 20 and Friday eyed dicks. puzzles to keep him occupied which has included Sheriff, May 21. Rob Catlin and Dave Murphy, during tea break with a small Avoncrop, Tacit, Vitax, Rigby Clive Osgood from Pareto, were the generous glass of homemade pink Gin in Taylor, Turner Groundcare, Golf sponsors of the day and a big the evenings to look forward to & Turf, Browns, Amenity Land thank you to you both for not and soothe those memories of Solutions, Headland, Banks, only sponsoring the event but last years resolutions which bit ETT and Speedcut Contractors. for your long and continued the dust. Welcome to 2010. The Annual General Meeting support over the years of the The Christmas Turkey Trot followed and Sid Arrowsmith Section. got off to a good start! On a mild was re-elected as Chairman for Jody Wilson and his team winter’s morning in December the Section followed by Chris Surrey must also be congratulated as the BB&O Section had the plea- Lomas, Vice Chairman; Adam the golf course was in exceptional sure of visiting The Oxfordshire King, Secretary; Frank Booth, Sunday, December 6. The order, as it is all year round. As a GC for this year’s AGM and Treasurer); Alec McEndoe, following should have appeared fairly regular visitor to the club, Turkey Trot. Simon Marsh (Education), Matt in the December edition. I do I have seen the course improve The Oxfordshire, set in the Smith, Matt Nutter as commit- not know why it was missed as and develop over the years and rolling hills of the Chilterns, is tee helpers with yours truly as it was emailed on time. Please I know that the members are located approximately 45 min- the scribe for another year. read on for belated news. suitably proud of their course. utes drive northwest of London Clive Parnell has joined forces Saturday, November 7. I am Thanks also go to Mid-Herts on the outskirts of the historical with Amenity Land Solutions sure you will all be pleased to Golf Club itself for their kind university town of Oxford. after Gem Professional ceased read that since my Baltic cruise hospitality and making us feel Designed and built by the trading last year, its nice to see I have not just been enjoying most welcome. world-renowned architect Rees Clive up and about and we all myself driving around in my This year’s competitions are Jones, his first in Britain. No wish him the very best in his van, visiting customers, I have pencilled in for Aspley Guise expense has been spared in new position. had to endure two further short GC, Stocks GC, Berkhamsted creating this beautiful course. If any member has any news holidays. The first was a long GC and Ashridge GC. Dates and A tactical blend of bunkering, or views they would like to share, week-end at Studland Bay,

58 GI JANUARY 2010 Around The Green

Dorset. The weather was warm and for his age, reasonable and sunny and nearly warm good looks has at last entered enough for a visit to the nudist the higher echelons of our beach. Not to participate, of greenkeeping world. I write course, but merely to observe this with the deepest respect and ponder the idiosyncrasies of and I know that you must all John the human psyche. be feeling that when next you The second break, just a few meet this aficionado of grass Pemberton days later, was a Wednesday and everything green, including to Sunday visit to France, in Dollar Spot, that his humorous Chief a village called Chatelleraut, and talkative nature will not Executive between Tours and Poitiers. have been affected having now Plenty of food, wine and a game earned that great honour to be of golf. A visit to a chateau called Mr John Ross MG. I hope everyone has enjoyed the Christmas break and that and on the Sunday home on Ken Cooper will retire on there are not too many sore heads left over from the New Year empty toll motorways that only December 4 after 36 years at celebrations. resemble the M25 at 4 o’clock Kingswood GC. Ken previously The first few days of January are when many, well some, in the morning. That’s holidays worked at Burhill and Banstead of us try to keep our New Year’s resolution, but how long over until Christmas and then Downs and will retire with his does it last? From personal experience whether it’s a diet to another long sea voyage to the wife to a flat in Banstead Village. counteract the excesses of turkey and treats at Christmas Isle of Wight. Many will know Ken’s son Steve, or work on that short game to knock a couple of shots of the Whilst I was in France, the who is deputy at Silvermere GC. handicap somehow by the end of January good intentions annual England v Scotland Tony Kyle, Surrey Downs GC, slowly seem to slip by the wayside. As I sit here in the middle of golf clash occurred at Hankley and his wife, Samantha, have December writing my column to beat the rapidly approaching Common GC and I understand been so busy looking after twin editorial deadline I have convinced myself that 2010 will be from Tony Bremer that a grand boys, Logan Aston and Quinn different. Why will it be different? I’m determined to enlist the day was had by all, especially George who arrived on February help of family and friends. the English team. Ronnie 26 and 27 and their other three BIGGA is in a similar exception to the rule and while Christie would not answer my children that Tony forgot to tell all exhibition space at Harrogate 2010 is fully sold, the text enquiry from France as to me about the happy event. A Association needs the support of its members and the sports the outcome and only told me to belated congratulations to you turf industry if it is to prosper. concern myself with not upset- both. We have had donated some issues of Golf Greenkeeping, ting our European colleagues. The Greenkeeper v Secretary the official publication of the British Golf Greenkeepers’ My assumption that England Golf encounter was played at The Association, dating back to the later part of 1982 and early were victorious proved correct Berkshire GC in November and 1983 and its is surprising in reading them how many articles and the result, I later learned, ended in a friendly draw 3 all. and features are topical today. Headings such as ‘ BGGA reject was England 4 - Scotland 2. That Only one of our pairs appeared proposed IOG merger’, ‘How secure is the Greenkeeper’s job?’, I was not able to play, I hope will to play for the Secretaries by ‘Greenkeepers at cross roads’, and ‘Head Greenkeeper sacked not stop me from being selected losing their match 6 and 4 and it by Committee’ could all have written in the last 12 months let next time, for I know Tony was would be ungentlemanly of me alone 26 years ago. particularly upset that my golf- to divulge their names. Needless The following is a direct quote from an editorial from ing expertise was not available to say that Tony and Anthony February 1983 and I hope it gives you food for thought: this year. must both practice more if they “Never has there been a time in the history of golf and the Mummy of the month is Caro- hope to be picked next year. greenkeeping profession for a more united front. We have seen line Wales, who gave birth to The Turkey Trot results will over the past ten years a wind of change in the economics of Freddie, 6 lbs. 12 oz on October appear in February’s Edition as our lives which could well develop into a hurricane. 2. Daren Wales, husband and the deadline for January is on Golf courses will no longer remain the cosy club supported Course Manager at Clandon December 5. by a few wealthy members who are content to keep their club Regis GC was, he informed me, Brian Willmott exclusive and did not mind paying for it. Golf Clubs, or rather a major player in the proceed- Golf Courses, are fast becoming part of the sporting leisure ings but now needs time to rest business and with business comes capital investment and the and recuperate. expectation of profit.” Retford was the venue for the The article continues by pointing out the need for Northern six hour lawnmower greenkeepers to improve their image, improve training and race and Surrey’s answer to education and encourage management development. Jenson Button, Steve (Basher) It concludes with the statement: “The turf trade in general Bush and his 24 inch Atco lawn- Kent could help and in fact some of the big names in industry do mower were 1st in his group. make a significant contribution to the training and education Steve, Head Mechanic at St. Happy New Year! of greenkeepers, but the good Lord only helps those who help George’s Hill GC, finished 12th Now that silly season is over themselves and all greenkeepers should give considerable overall, having raced 140 miles and hopefully all the extended thought to their own future and the direction they would like in six hours. Some say you have families have left your respective it to take.” By my way of thinking that sums up the situation to be mad to race a Formula 1 domiciles relatively unscathed, today very well, it seems that some things never change which vehicle - what do you have to be you can start to concentrate on perhaps reflects the general apathy that still exists in some to race a lawnmower? restoring some sanity to your part of this very traditional industry. We all know that the wind That was all, so read on once daily lives. The psychological of change is blowing. Do yourself a favour and take advantage again for January 2010. tolls taken by excessive Christ- of the many education related opportunities that BIGGA Have you heard the news? Of mas pleasantries can leave us presents, that way you can help shape your own future and course you have, how can any all emotionally drained and, I perhaps that of your employer. Surrey member not be aware find, that there is no better cure Will I see you in Harrogate? that we have in our midst a man than going out on the verti drain whose knowledge, persistence and punching a load of holes John Pemberton, Chief Executive

JANUARY 2010 GI 59 Around The Green into various parts of the course. the day, however, and as dusk course in an outstanding condi- man on the committee I’m sure, This has the double benefit of fell as we played the last holes, tion. With the course having though he will still be joining us relieving the pent up frustra- another successful event had been closed the day before due on our golf days over the coming tions of having an over-bearing been added to the annals of our to flooding it was a remarkable months and years. urge to throttle your nearest and Section’s history. Results were achievement and our thanks go Also to Antony Kirwan, who dearest and restoring health to as follows: 1. Russ Bain 43 pts to him and his staff for the hard has decided to have a year of rest stressed areas of your courses. (and winner of Scotts Shield); 2. work and presentation that we from a major roll on the commit- The vagaries of the wettest Nick Leach 42 pts; 3. Rob Hol- all remarked on. tee? He will be missed, as he has winter for a long time are playing land 42 pts The winners, though I heard a a big contribution to the section havoc with many of our courses Longest Drive went to Michael few murmuring the words “ban- in the way we have progressed and anything we can do when Wigstone. dits” at the prize presentation forward on our golf days, bring- conditions allow to shift some Team Rumble competition were as follows:- ing computerisation into results of the excess water has to be was won with a massive 127 The AGM and Winter Team and handicapping. paramount to restore the play- points by Paul Rudkin, Darren Event at Orsett GC. Format: Thank you to both of them ing surfaces. Burton, Nick Leach and Russ Progressive Stableford. for what they have done for the Many thanks to the 40 or so Bain. 1. Ben Scrivener, Tom Bowens, Section. of you who attended our AGM at Again, many thanks to all who Steve Crosdale, C Bowens. 124 Next year’s events are also on the end of November. Kev and I attended and contributed to pts; Jeff Taylor, Rob George, the website, starting with our both appreciated the vote of con- making it such a great occasion. Neil Stopps, Noel Kettle. 121 Seminar and then the first golf fidence in our respective roles I look forward to seeing you all pts; 3.Richard Dunmow, Kyle event, The Spring Trophy at and now with Glenn Kirby on at Princes Golf Club in March. Smith, Malcolm Smith, Neil South Essex Golf Club, Tues- board to arrange more educa- Please keep tabs on all up to the Tutton. 118 pts. day, April 27. tional events, we are confident of minute information at our very Longest Drive, Tom Brook. If you do have any news for the strengthening the Kent Section regularly updated website www. Nearest the Pin, Tom Smith. website or for GI, please contact to its fullest. Details of the meet- kentgreenkeepers.com and This year’s Greenkeepers me on 07764 862 337 or via ing are all on the website as is remember if you have any news, Order of Merit was won by Stuart email [email protected] the fantastic fixture list for this views or pictures for it then Rodgers. Arnold Phipps-Jones year. We put a fair amount of leg please contact me and I shall The Trade Order of Merit was Press Officer work into securing these venues be happy to post any items you won by Neil Peachey. so please do your best to sup- wish to be shown. The Essex Section wishes to port as many as possible. We are Nothing else to add other than thank all those at Orsett Golf now sourcing host courses for to sincerely wish you all the very Club for a fine day, the cater- 2011 so if you’re up for it please Best of British for the coming ing staff did us proud and our let us know. year. thanks to the Club Captain The Turkey Trot that preceded Rob Holland Steve Biggins for his vote of the AGM was a great day as thanks and wishes before we London normal. A strong contingent of started the AGM. Plus all those Kentish greenkeepers flocked to that helped to fill our raffle table Firstly I would like to wish a Birchwood Park for the annual for the evening. Happy New Year to all of you in extravaganza. Thanks to my To our sponsors of 2009:- the Section. guys for helping to produce a Avoncrop Amenity Products I know it has been along time course worthy of the multitude - Bailey’s of Norfolk Ltd - Banks since the London Section has of our peers who made the pil- Essex Amenity Products Ltd - Blade put anything in the ‘Around the grimage to Dartford. After the Amenity Ltd - CMW Equipment Green’ but I am going to try and recent poor weather we were We are into a new year and Company Ltd - Collier Turf Care produce reminders of education blessed indeed by some lovely Essex has a slightly changed - Ernest Doe & Sons - Fieldfare days, golf days and any other winter sunshine and as Kev and Committee, at the AGM and Amenity LiquiTec - GM Amenity news. I’ve got a lot to talk about I took up our usual positions at Winter Team event at Orsett Golf - Golf Mats UK - Grasshop- for once this month. the back of the group after com- Club on Tuesday, December 1. per Horticultural - Headland I am writing this before the pleting the days organisational Mark Stopps, of Bentley Golf Amenity Products - Limagrain Turkey Trot which is being held duties, it was clear that high Club, was elected as your new UK - Prime Irrigation Ltd - Rigby at Sandy Lodge Golf Club so I will scores would be the order of the Chairman. Dominic Rodgers, Taylor Ltd – Scotts - Tey Farm have the results in next months day as players competed for the Warley Park Golf Club, as your Systems - P, Tuckwell Ltd - Vitax issue. I would like to thank Lee Scotts Shield. Secretary, plus Andy Cracknell, and Writtle College. Cox for writing last year’s notes. Given the role of Master of Cer- Orsett Golf Club, to the position We thank you all very much There has been a slight emonies for the day was James of Competition and Handicap for your support over the past change to the London Section. Watson, of Headland Amenity, Secretary. The following stay in year. Rob Phillips, from Sandy Lodge, whose voice resounded far and their former positions of Trea- The Section also wishes to has stepped down as our Chair- wide as players were announced surer Tom Smith, Paul O’Kane, thank Clive Osgood our Regional man after eight years on the onto the 1st tee. Also at the first Education and Arnold Phipps- Administrator for his support to committee. tee to send us on our way with a Jones as your Press Officer. the section over this last year. We have enjoyed some little seasonal cheer was Mark All contact details are on the Lastly, I must thank Martin wonderful golf tournaments and Amanda Brown, of MAB committee page on the website. Forrester, our long standing and really good education days Groundscare. After a strong A write up of the minutes from Secretary who has decided to over the years, so I would like to front nine we were met at the the AGM are available on the stand down from the position thank Rob for all his time and 10th by MAB again but this time website. after such along time. Martin effort to keep the Section going. with a very welcome barbeque The day started with a slight was an instigator in the forma- Don’t worry, Rob will remain as and yet more cheery beverages frost but soon warmed to give tion of the Essex Section some Treasurer on the new commit- to revitalise the happy throng a pleasant day though there 13 years ago and he has put tee, he won’t let the purse strings as they took to the trickier was a nip in the air as the day in a lot of hard work over his go just yet! Birchwood back nine. The qual- progressed. Don Clark, our years on the committee. We will The new Chairman is Aaron ity of our players prevailed on former Chairman, presented the miss him as Secretary and wise Percival who has been Rob’s

60 GI JANUARY 2010 Around The Green

Vice this year. Aaron has just formance of putting surfaces. In section or any events or news had a baby boy this year. So con- South West and the afternoon the 55 attendees you would like me to include in gratulation to him on that, hope South Wales were given a presentation on these “Around the your getting your sleep! The new “Rescue” selective herbicide by Green” notes.Happy New Year! look committee being headed by Region Simon Barnaby. Simon was George Pitts, Section Secre- Aaron is as follows: Matt Plested working for Syngenta during tary. Secretary and Around the most of the trial period and gave 07929 754401 Green notes. Lee Cox Education a very honest and comprehen- [email protected] and Tournaments. Rob Phillips sive presentation on how the Treasurer ant the Committee product can be used and on Members are Jamie Lomas, Phil the results of all the trial work Jones, from Supergrass, and leading up to its arrival on the Barry McCloskey, from Avon- Devon and market. This was followed by a crop. The trade members are Cornwall presentation by Steve Gingell out and about. They will be able which continued on from the dis- to keep us in touch with what is Hello all! Firstly I apologise play of equipment for evaluating South West going on and what people want that there hasn’t been any the performance of your putting from the Section. “Around the Green” entries for surfaces. Steve explained how Hey everyone, I hope you’re There is a new drive from the our Section for the last couple by benchmarking and setting all well! What a great time of new committee to do more edu- of months. There has been a few out realistic performance targets year this is, dark mornings... cation and to give you as much changes to our Section with new along with regular recording early evenings...and wet miser- notice to when and were the golf personnel coming in and roles of performance, that this can able days. But don’t let me get days will take place. within the section changing. My be used to plot progress and you down, it’s not all doom and Remember this is your sec- name is George Pitts, Course evaluate your maintenance gloom we do have something to tion too and there is funding Manager at Yelverton Golf Club, programme. Thank you to both look forward to. As I write this for education. Tell us what you and I have taken over as Section speakers on the day for very month’s letter we have Christ- want to learn and we will try to Secretary from Abi Crosswood, interesting and thought provok- mas just around the corner and organise something for you. who has started an internship ing presentations. The Golf com- then New Year after that. New So far organised for 2010, The in the States with her first place- petition was won by Roy Dow, Year’s great, it a real chance to Spring tournament, May 20, at ment at Augusta National. Abi 38pts, from Chulmleigh GC, re-write the last year and start Ealing Golf Club. I know we have has also completed her Foun- Kevin Pitts, 37pts, from Fingle all over again. Myself, I just the 2mm debate at Harrogate dation Degree with a merit, so Glen, was second and Andrew want to do everything I’d done this month, which should be thanks to Abi for all the hard Dunstan, 37pts from Newquay in 2009, but this time just a bit good but this will give you the work she has done for the Sec- came in third. Kevin Pitts won bigger and bit better, can’t go chance to see what Greg Evans tion, congratulations and good the longest drive with Richard wrong that way!? has been doing with his greens! luck for the future. Someone else Parker, from Ilfracombe, win- Many congratulations from Also this is the National quali- who has stepped down from the ning the Nearest to Pin. A huge the Section to Matt Hawker, fier. The first and second place committee is Jeff Mills. Jeff has thank you to Great Torrington Course Manager at Bristol & winners will get their expenses been very active within BIGGA Golf Club who made us all feel Clifton Golf Club, on success- paid trip to the National Tourna- over the years, both in our very welcome and helped to run fully completing 20 years of ment, which this year is at The Section and Nationally, having what was a very successful and service at this top Bristol Club. Berkshire. stood on the National Board. We enjoyable day. In this time, Matt, under the .The Summer Tournament would all like to congratulate Details of the Christmas tutelage and guidance of the will be held on July 21 at Mus- Jeff on his commitment and the meeting at St Enodoc will be in likes of John Barr and Huw well Hill Golf Club. This will enthusiasm he has shown for the next “Around the Green”. Parry, has raised through the give you chance to look how we the industry and for our Section. Our January meeting will be ranks from Apprentice Green- have changed the course after Jeff will still be representing the held at Newquay Golf Club on keeper to the position of Course the fire in 2007. We will have a Section on the Regional Board. Wednesday, January 13. The Manager. A real success story BBQ after the golf with golf dress New Committee members afternoon speaker will be Mark for both Matt, and the support welcome all day, so need for your include Tony Gooch, from Great Hunt, from “Headland Amenity”, received from BIGGA and the shirt and tie. Torrington, Steve Harris, from who will be talking about where industry in general. A huge well This we hope will allow us to Ashbury, and Brian Summers, the industry is heading over the done goes out to Matt for this, enjoy the sun! from Carlyon Bay. next 10 years. Full details of this and it just goes to show for all the We will keep you updated The last meeting held was at event and all other events for younger members of staff out on Education days once we Great Torrington Golf Club on our Section will be in the events’ there reading this, hard work finalised them and next years November 5. The day consisted of section of the website. and determination can ensure Turkey Trot. We want to improve the usual format of Golf, Course At the end of November, I you reach the very top and your this section but we need just a walk, lunch and an educational attended a Section Secretaries’ dreams can come true! little bit of help from you. So presentation in the afternoon. meeting at BIGGA HOUSE. It Just recently I bumped into please if you have any questions The day was kindly sponsored was a great chance to meet the Ali Turner, who most of you may or suggestions on the Section by Devon Garden Machinery other Section Secretaries and to know suffered from a horrible please contact us. and Scotts. Many thanks to discuss the good and bad things broken leg recently. Ali, I must You can call or use the web Tony Gooch, Head Greenkeeper that are happening within all say it was great to see you, and site www.biggalondonsection. who provided a Golf course in the Sections. We discussed it was even better knowing that co.uk. fantastic condition. The 30+ best practices and continuity of you have recovered so well from Matt Plested strong course walk was lead the Sections. I look forward to such a horrific accident. This 07818410333 by Tony and was extremely implementing some of the ideas also reminds me that I would interesting. Towards the end of discussed and working towards also like to wish Roger Neale a the Course walk, Steve Gingell, continually developing the Sec- speedy recovery, twice in one from the STRI, displayed some tion from strength to strength. year, Roger let’s just roll onto of the techniques that are being Please feel free to contact me 2010 shall we... made available to quantify per- regarding any issues within our I would like to welcome Jamie

JANUARY 2010 GI 61 Around The Green

Blake, Roger Ashby, Dan Taylor, Roger Roberts, John Collinson and Joe Willcocks all from Broadway GC. They have just recently transferred to our section from the Midland section. You guys will be a great addition South Wales to the section!!!! Just recently I attend a secre- After a week of heavy rain we taries meeting at BIGGA HOUSE, were fortunate to have a beauti- this included a one night’s stay ful, if slightly chilly day, for the in the glamorous Aldwark Hotel. Christmas competition at Pyle The Bigga Training & Development Manual, For those of you that have never and Kenfig. The course was in sponsored by John Deere, is an invaluable tool for had the opportunity to visit the superb condition thanks to the everyone working within the greenkeeping industry. Aldwark Hotel, well let me be efforts of Paul Johnson and his the first to tell you how amazing staff. this place is. The food was great, Results: 1. (Vitax Shield) Kerry our rooms were fantastic and Jones, Carmarthen Hedgehog FREE UsE FoR MEMbERs we were made very welcome by Trust; 2. Andrew Roach, Hav- the staff. I arrived there on the erfordwest; 3. Rhys Norville, The bIGGA Training Sunday evening after a terrible Newport,.Nearest the Pin. Jamie drive, which took me over four Probert, Pontardawe. Longest & Development Manual hours. Anyone been up the M1 Drive. Steve Lloyd,,Burghill. recently? If you haven’t don’t Best Trade/Guest. Peter Lacey. This online manual provides users with the information bother! It’s 20 miles of 50mph, Silver Salver Award for the best they need on recruitment, induction, training and career not what I wanted on my Sunday aggregate score for the season, progression using video clips, written information, down- evening. To top it off when the Andy Roach. loadable documents and useful web links. average speed limits did come to Thanks go out to Joe Crawley, an end the heavens opened up from Vitax, for sponsoring the A valuable membership benefit the manual can be ac- and there’s me driving with the day and for his efforts in putting cessed via the bIGGA website on the Education, Jobs’ wipers on full blast going even together the superb prizes; to and Members’ areas. simply log in using your surname slower than I previously was. Club Captain, Richard Hurne, and bIGGA membership number on the Home page. However all was forgotten when for presenting the prizes. I arrived to the hotel bar to find To all the wonderful cater- Designed around a theme of 18 holes users can gain ac- Chelsea v Arsenal on the box, ing staff and last but not least cess to training records, job specifications, job descrip- I remember thinking to myself to Paul (PJ) Johnson and his tions, sample contracts of employment, appraisal forms “this is what Sundays are all Greenkeeping team for produc- and details of continuing development. about!” On the Monday morning ing a superb golf course for us we had our Section Secretaries’ to enjoy. How to access the BIGGA Training & Development Manual meeting. This is when it became Joe Crawley also advised me 1 Go to the BIGGA website www.bigga.org.uk a really worthwhile trip as it’s that this year’s sponsorship of 2 Click on the Members area, the Jobs page or the Educa- great to say that BIGGA are the Section will be their last as tion page and click on the BIGGA Training Manual link. always trying to move forward they now intend to sponsor the 3 Enter your login details and select the BIGGA Training & and get the very best for you as Association nationally via the Development Manual from the left hand menu. the members. This was also a Silver Key membership. 4 The Training Manual will load and the user can click on pretty good eye opener for me, it So I would like to thank Vitax Enter the Site to view a welcome video or can select 1–9 was great to meet the people who for their sponsorship of the or 10–18 on the top menu bar. do the work at BIGGA and to Section which goes back to at 5 You can progress through the manual hole by hole or go see how the generally day to day least the early ‘80s, when Colin straight to the hole you wish to view. You can also skip to running goes. Thanks everyone Murphy, was their Rep! Since holes 10–18. at BIGGA house for this. then we had Allan Stow, myself 6 When you select a hole you will be presented with a Could I please remind every- and Adie Masters so it’s a bit like window that explains what that hole is about. You can then one that if you move house or the end of an era. select from the bottom tabs, video or sub-text (download- change your phone, e-mail On the education front I believe able documents and links). address or anything to please that the winter series of evening 7 When clicking on a downloadable document it will auto- matically open in your default word processor. This can inform the HQ or even drop lectures will start in January. then be amended, updated and saved to your computer’s me an e-mail. I would hate for More information soon. hard disk or printed and filed in your personnel files. you guys to miss out on any In closing, I would like to information or events because thank the Section’s sponsors for of this, thank you!!! On the final 2009 who were: Countrywide, note, your stories can also make CWC, Farmura, Inscapes, some great reading. Feel free Keith Morgan Mowers, RT, to drop me an e-mail anytime. Scotts, Tacit, Tower Europe and Look forward to speaking to you Vitax.! soon. Also thanks to Section One final remind...Spell Secretary, Steve Chappell, for check...check, Grammar.. all his work and congratulations check... on becoming Regional Chair- Adam Matthews man. adam.l.matthews@hotmail. Ceri Richards co.uk 07831 168645

62 GI JANUARY 2010 Diary of Events Details of your section’s forthcoming events in 2010 can now be found here...

January Wednesday, February 17 Wednesday, March 17 ‘Recent developments in chemicals for The Devon and Cornwall Section has use on sports turf’. Paul Clifton, of Bayer arranged a golf event to be held at Mullion Wednesday, January 13, Environmental, will be giving a presentation Golf Club. Contact George Pitts gpitts. ‘In at the deep end’ a presentation by Keith covering recent developments in chemicals [email protected] Exton, Head Groundsman of the Swalec for the use on sports turf. Venue is Pencoed Stadium Cardiff, home of Glamorgan CCC. College (Bridgend) and starts at 7:00pm. Wednesday, March 17 Venue of the event is Taff’s Wells Rugby Arranged by the South Wales Section Club and will start at 7:30pm. in conjunction with the IOG South Wales Site visit to Ffos Las Racecourse, Car- Arranged by the South Wales Section Branch and is sponsored by Countrywide marthenshire. A chance to have a look in conjunction with the IOG South Wales Turf & Amenity. Contact Steve Chappell around only the 3rd racecourse to be built Branch and is sponsored by Countrywide [email protected]. in the UK in 80 years in the company of Turf & Amenity. Contact Steve Chappell Clerk of the Course Mr.Tim Long and Man- [email protected]. February 2010 aging Director David Thursfield. Ffos Las is – Date to be advised. located near Kidwelly and the visit starts at Wednesday, January 13 5:30pm. The South West Section is organizing Arranged by the South Wales Section The Devon and Cornwall Section has an Excavator Training Course (novice in conjunction with the IOG South Wales arranged a golf event to be held at Newquay driving course). Contact Adam Matthews Branch and is sponsored by Countrywide Golf Club. Contact George Pitts gpitts. [email protected] Turf & Amenity. Contact Steve Chappell [email protected] [email protected].

Tuesday, January 19 March April The North Wales Section will be arranging a bus to travel to Harrogate Week. This will Tuesday, March 2 travel from the North Wales area and can Wednesday, April 14 Scottish BIGGA Conference, Carnegie pick up in the North West Section by prior Conference Centre, Carnegie College, Dun- Site visit to 2010 Ryder Cup Course at arrangements. Contact Jeremy Hughes fermline. Speakers include; Henry Bechelet, the Celtic Manor Resort. Director of Golf [email protected] STRI, Richard Windows, STRI, Greg Evans, Courses & Estates Management Jim McK- Ealing GC, Gordon McKie, Course Manager, enzie will be showing us around the first January 2010 Old Course, St.Andrews Links, Lee Strutt, golf course to be purpose built to host the Course Manage GWest, Gleneagles, Paul Ryder Cup. following the tour there will be – Date to be advised. Kimber, Golf Course Architect. Contact a presentation when Jim will be joined by The South West Section are organising Peter Boyd [email protected] Chris Sealy to discuss the Ryder cup at a Manual Handling training course. Con- Valhalla in 2008. tact Adam Matthews adam.l.matthews@ Thursday, March 4 Arranged by the South Wales Section hotmail.co.uk in conjunction with the IOG South Wales The South Coast Section has arranged Branch and is sponsored by Countrywide an education section seminar to be held at Turf & Amenity. Contact Steve Chappell Canford Magna Golf Club. Contact Chris [email protected]. February Bitten [email protected] Thursday, February 11 Wednesday, April 14 Friday, March 5 The East Midlands Section has arranged The Devon and Cornwall Section has a golf event to be held at Erewash Valley Golf arranged a golf event to be held at Torquay South East Region Annual Gentleman’s Club. Contact Andy de Wet biggaeastmid- Golf Club. Contact George Pitts Dinner to be held at Walton Heath Golf [email protected] [email protected] Club. Contact Clive Osgood cliveosgood@ yahoo.co.uk

Wednesday, February 17 Wednesday, March 10 The Devon and Cornwall Section Spring More dates for your Workshop entitled “The Life Beneath Your The Kent Section has arranged a golf event diary next month Feet”, to be held at Duchy College. to be held at Princes Golf Club. Contact Rob Contact George Pitts Holland [email protected] [email protected]

JANUARY 2010 GI 63 Membership Tracey Maddison, Head of Membership, provides a departmental update

Welcome to 2010 2009, the Government has changed the way we deal with problems at BIGGA welcomes the I would like to take this work. following new members opportunity to welcome you to a new year and to thank all the There is now: Scottish Region many BIGGA members who • Less emphasis on the mechan- Contact Details Ralph Carson, West currently volunteer in one role ics of how to manage disciplin- Tracey Maddison Anthony Farrell, West or another to help the team at ary issues, grievances and [email protected] Gavin Jones, Central Des Kerr, East BIGGA Headquarters. Without dismissals Brad Anderson Chen Kuang Yan, East their valuable help, advice and • More flexibility to resolve prob- [email protected] Ajay Malhorta, East Callum Mathewson, Central countless hours of volunteer lems at an early stage and in a Tel: 01347 833800 (option 1 for Membership) Naomi Newlands, East work your Association would way that suits you best. Richard Plested, North not be what it is today. Phillip Snellin, Central By working closely with your Encouraging better and more Regional Offices Section committee the membership direct workplace communication Northern Section team are looking forward to a suc- will reduce the chance of problems Scotland & going to an employment tribunal. Northern Ireland Scott Hall, Sheffield cessful and prosperous new year. Peter Boyd But the best people to promote Acas (Advisory, Conciliation and Tel: 0141 616 3440 any membership professional body Arbitration Services) has produced Mobile: 07776 242120 [email protected] Midland Section are the members themselves. the new Acas Code of Practice on disciplinary and grievances Northern & Midland Thomas Ablewhite, East of England Please encourage your fellow Peter Larter greenkeepers or groundsmen procedures, which provides basic Tel: 01476 550115 Matthew Clark, Berks/Bucks & Oxon Mobile: 07866 366966 Sam Davies, Berks/Bucks & Oxon working on sports turf to take a look practical guidance to employers, [email protected] Jason Gowland, Berks/Bucks & Oxon at what BIGGA can do for them. employees and their representa- Duncan O’Connor, Berks/Bucks & Oxon South East tives and sets out principles for Clive Osgood Membership Renewals handling disciplinary and grievance Tel: 01737 819343 Mobile: 07841 948410 South East Section situations in the workplace. [email protected] Traditionally, BIGGA used to Phillip Bannister, Essex operate a membership year that For full details of the Acas Code South West & Wales Andrew Darnell, Essex Jane Jones Peter Driver, East Anglia Tel: 01454 270850 ran from January to December, of Practice and to download a free Tom Keen, East Anglia Mobile: 07841 948110 but to allow more flexibility BIGGA copy, go to www.acas .org.uk/drr [email protected] Mark Lambert, London now operate a rolling year. This Barry Mann, Essex Tom Murray, East Anglia means that a new member will gain BIGGA has produced a “Guide Christopher Wight, Essex 12 months membership from the to Problems at Work” help sheet to month of joining BIGGA. advise members of the procedure S West/S Wales Section However, if any member has an used regarding a grievance or Peter Boyd Peter Larter expiry date, for example, December disciplinary at work. This can be John Critchley, South Coast 31 or January 31, which doesn’t downloaded from the Members Frederick Saunders, South West Area of the BIGGA website. Nicholas Thomas, South Wales fit in with their personal circum- Ricki Worrall, Devon & Cornwall stances and wish to change to a Christy Worthington, Devon & Cornwall different month please contact the Welcome to new members Clive Osgood Jane Jones Membership Department directly so that we can discuss your options As well as welcoming new mem- with you. bers on this page each month, we We are also finding that some will be reproducing this list with a teams of greenkeepers, at the same bit more information, i.e. Golf Club golf club, have differing expiry and job (as per BIGGA categories) dates; if your golf club wishes to pay on the Members’ Area of the BIGGA Other for membership of BIGGA for all Website. useful the greenkeepers at the same time, The Members’ Area of the BIGGA numbers again, please contact the Member- Website holds a vast amount of (Full Members only) ship Department so that we can useful information for BIGGA discuss your options. Members. As well as details of full Personal Accident Helpline 02075 603013 membership benefits and educa- Greenkeepers Legal New workplace problem- tion information there is access to Assistance 0800 177 7891 solving process a Bulletin Board, where, questions Greenkeepers Support and queries and conversations are Services 0800 174 319 Following the Dispute Resolution held regarding all sorts of useful Debt Counselling Helpline Promoting Best Practice Review (DRR) and since April 6, and interesting topics. 0800 174319 in Sports Turf Management

64 GI JANUARY 2010 Assistant What’s Profile your number? Each month we take a light hearted look Our regular and random profile of an industry figure into the life of an assistant greenkeeper... continues with this month’s lucky number...

When he’s not Tim Webb, of Tacit, is starring in photo- shoots, promoting under the spotlight... major brands on his headwear, Macca 1. What is your position within the company? enjoys football and Managing Director going out for a run. For relaxation he 2. How long have you been in enjoys chilling out to the industry? 18 years. the sounds of post- grunge-pop-rockers, 3. How did you get into it? As Tacit grew larger than a “one The Foo Fighters! man band”, actually my father and my mother, my father asked me to join the company. Name: Scott McAuley There’re now nearly 30 of us here. Age: 27 Club: Woodbury Park G&CC, Devon 4. What other jobs have you done? Position: Senior Greenkeeper When I first left school I was a Hod Carrier, then went to Nickname: Macca Middlesex University to attend the High Level tennis Centre for Great Britain, even managed to scrape a degree while I was 1. How long have you been greenkeeping? there! Then decided rugby was my game and went on to play 10 years for Wasps and Saracens while Marquee Erecting for a job, finally settled down to teach outdoor education in Cumbria, 2. What was it about the career that attracted you? finished up as Deputy Headmaster at a school for children I always liked the outdoor life and I enjoyed greenkeeping with emotional and behavioural difficulties while doing a from the moment I started out Masters Degree in Special Needs.

3. If you weren’t a greenkeeper what do you think you’d be? 5. What do you like about your current job? A Countryside Ranger or an Environmentalist Being involved with a side of golf that is very hidden yet crucial to the game and its development. Creating new products 4. Which task do you most enjoy doing and why? and thinking outside the box, being busy and being under I was given a project to build nine artificial tees for my NVQ3 pressure. The guys I work with. that I am doing at Duchy college and I enjoyed the planning, ordering and the building – everything from start to finish 6. What industry changes have you seen during your time? The whole industry is more professional; everybody from 5. Which task do you least enjoy doing and why? the top down expect higher standards, courses are in better Digging drainage lines by hand. We have a sand stone soil condition all year round, greenkeepers are now much more with a high clay content so it sticks to everything making it a aware that is the little things that make the difference. slow job. 7. What do you like to do in your spare time? 6. What one thing - other than a pay rise - would improve I like playing golf, Sailing, watching Wasps and Sunderland the greenkeepers’ lot? - my two teams, watching sport generally, whether at a A mini digger (no more hand digging drain lines) professional level or my children at school. Keeping an eye on my small flock of Soay sheep. Having a BBQ with friends. 7. Hobbies? Football, running 8. Where do you see yourself in 10 years time? Fat and content. 8. Favourite Band? Foo Fighters 9. Who are your best friends in the industry? The guys that have believed in Tacit from its beginning and 9. Which team do you support (football or otherwise)? have stuck with us. Too many to mention but they know who Tottenham Hotspur they are.

10. What is your claim to fame? 11. What do you consider to be your lucky number? 1996 Ten Tors expedition I was on the news for being one of 9 - Once a scrum half always a scrum half. the few teams to finish in worst weather recorded 12. Pick a number. 9 Tim has picked David Snowden, of Agronomic Services

JANUARY 2010 GI 65 intheshed Our monthly puzzle page to keep you entertained when you’re forced indoors..

CROSSWORD QUICK ‘NINE HOLE’ QUIZ

1. Who won the 1910 Open Golf 6. Which lady, associated with Championship and where was it Calcutta, was born in 1910? played? 7. Where will the US Open 2. What famous comet was Championship be played in 2010? photograph for the first time in 1910? 8. What was the name of the Dudley Moore film in which he co-starred 3. Which well supported football with Bo Derek? team won the 1910 FA Cup? 9. Barney Oldfield set the land 4. Which of the following golf clubs speed record at Daytona Beach in is the odd one out? Haggs Castle; 1910. How fast was it: 131.7 mph; Royal Montrose; Abergele; Old Fold 141.7mph or 151.7mph? Manor and Wetherby?

5. Who was the British Prime Minister in 1910?

MONSTER SUDOKU Fill in the grid so Across Down that every row, every column and every 1 Unwilling to take risks (8) 1 Cloud with rounded peaks 4x4 box contains the 5 African antelope with and dark, flat base (7) numbers 0 to 9 and ridged, curved horns (6) 2 Final offer or demand (9) the letters A to E. 10/11 Derogatory term for 3 Pocket-sized device for mature woman attired in an playing digital music files (4) attempt to appear younger 4 Meiosis, litotes (14) (6,7,2,4) 6 Rules of religious 12 Central character of observance beginning with Hugh Lofting’s childrens’ the Ten Commandments books (2,8) (6,3) 13 Act resulting in false 7 Inspection of accounting incrimination (3-2) practices (5) 15 Excite pleasurably (9) 8 Spartan, strict (7) 17 Bound, under obligation 9 Compilation of romantic SUDOKU (9) fables by Sir Thomas Malory Fill in the grid so 18 Giant of the sea (5) - anagram of TO HALT that every row, every 20 Minimalist design motto MURDERER (2,5,7) column and every 9 (4,2,4) 14 Exclusive right (9) box shape contains 22/24 Interpret that which 16 Mythological king who the numbers 1 to 9. is not explicitly stated led Greeks against Troy (9) (4,7,3,5) 17 Former name of the 25 Submerged (6) Indonesian island Sulawesi 26 Status of the comedy (7) character Norman Stanley 19 Customer (3,4) Fletcher (8) 21 Smooth fabric or rayon or silk (5) Puzzle 23 Asset, useful or valuable Answers quality (4) on page 63

66 GI JANUARY 2010 HUMAN RESOURCES

BIGGA’s Health & Safety series produced by Xact www.xact.uk.com Snow and Ice Clearance

Each year, many employees, members and visitors suffer Exhibition dates for the personal injuries as a consequence of slipping and falling on ice and snow. next three years... It is a popular misconception that an occupier cannot be held liable for failing to clear snow/ice, but can be held liable once an attempt at clearance has been made and then someone is injured. 18-20 January 2011 The true position is that a Club/ employer/occupier can be held liable for ‘failing to act reasonably’ in order to prevent accidents. The 24-26 January 2012 key word is reasonably. It is far easier to defend yourself or Club by 22-24 January 2013 saying that you recognised that a slipping hazard existed and acted responsibly to minimise it, than you recognised the risk but did nothing in case someone tried to sue you. The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Occupiers Liabil- ity Act place a responsibility upon the Club/Employer/Occupier, so far as is reasonably practicable, that the means of access and egress from its premises are maintained in a condition that is safe and without risk to either its members, employees or other persons. BIGGA The approved code of practice which supports the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations states that “arrangements should be made to minimise risks from snow and ice. This may involve matting Job Shop entrances to prevent snow and ice being carried into the Clubhouse, at Harrogate Week 2010 gritting and snow clearing of pathways and where required closure of some pathways and routes within the Club boundary.” Employers, Owners and managers of establishments are What does the future hold in store for responsible for ensuring that the means of access to their establishment is safe for both employees and visitors and that adequate you? arrangements are made to ensure that the risks from snow and ice are minimised. It is recognised that it is not possible to remove immediately every piece of snow or ice. It does however, require Explore the wide range of pportunities those responsible for the premises to exercise careful judgement and prioritise de-icing and salting of key access and egress routes. It from all aspects of the turf industry by is important to remember that once routes have been identified as visiting the Job Shop on the BIGGA needing to be cleared and initial clearing/gritting has been done that this is carried on and they are not allowed to refreeze giving glassy, Stand in Hall B icy surfaces. Which are potentially an even greater slip hazard

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QUIZ ANSWERS:

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2. Halley’s Comet Halley’s 2. 1. James Braid at St Andrews St at Braid James 1.

CROSSWORD MONSTER SUDOKO SQUIGGLY SUDOKO

JANUARY 2010 GI 67 BUYERS’ GUIDE

Buyers AERATION guide Want to sell categories Second Hand • AERATION Machinery? • AGRONOMY • ALL WEATHER Advertise all your machines SURFACES For only £30 per month • BRIDGES www.bigga.org.uk/classifieds • CLOTHING/FOOTWEAR Or call Kirstin on • CONSTRUCTION 01347 833800 • DE SILTING • DRAINAGE • GRINDERS • IRRIGATION • IRRIGATION CONSULTANTS TOPTURF IRRIGATION • LAKE CONSTRUCTION IS THE LEADING DEALER LINERS INSTALLER & SERVICING AGENT • MACHINERY FOR SALE FOR OTTERBINE BAREBO • PLANT AERATION EQUIPMENT 2006, 2007 & 2008 • PUMPS • RUBBER CRUMB Call us on 0044 (0) 870 8720081 Help For Council’s • SLEEPERS www.ttirrigation.co.uk • SOIL FOOD WEB • TOP DRESSING ‘Unplayable’ Pitches • TREE MOVING AGRONOMY • TREE CLEARANCE Help is at hand for Local Authorities forced to cancel • TURF B Jamieson football matches following the late summer drought, • VERTIDRAINING HIRE Golf Advisors Ltd and now faced with unplayable surfaces as rain turns • WASTE/WASHWATER them into mud. Bruce Jamieson Golf Advisors Ltd, is an TREATMENT established company offering expert advice on; Lynda Green, Operations Director of Terrain Aeration, who ● Golf Course maintenance ● Tournament preparation & presentation can remember similar conditions following the summer of ● Machinery selection 2006 says that provided ground staff have managed to open ● Budgeting ● Staff recruitment up the top 4” of the surface, the company’s Airforce Terralift ● Soil & turf analysis ● Establishment of new golf courses machines will be able to de-compact the entire area to a depth Contact: Bruce Jamieson of one metre, rejuvinating the soil structure and dispelling Forth House, Bracknell Lane, Hartley Wintney, Hants, RG27 8QP AERATION Telephone: 01252 844847 surface water. “The Airforce Terralift machine is ideal in these circumstances as its JCB breaker gun (used to break up road AERATION surfaces) hammers the hollow probe one metre into the soil AERATION ALL WEATHER SURFACES however hard and compacted it has become. With alternative TERRAIN equipment, in these conditions the spikes have a tendency to bounce and so not reach the required depth.” she explains. TERRAIN Once the Terralift’s probe has penetrated one metre into the Turf and Trees subsoil a controlled blast of compressed air is injected fractur- 10” drill aeration PREMIER ALL-WEATHER SURFACES FOR GOLF ing and fissuring the soil as it makes its way to the surface. 1m air injection Importantly, on the tail end of this air blast dried, milled 1m soil coring seaweed is released which sticks to the walls of the fractures, Air excavation swelling and contracting, creating movement within the soil and keeping the air fractures open. “The groundsman’s surface aeration should link into our Tel: 01449 673783 Turf and Trees www.terrainaeration.com treatment,” Lynda continues “and once the system is up and [email protected] running the re-juvinated soil structure will sustain the grass Huxley Practice• Tee Fresh at St Andrews Air… Links soil saviour roots during drought and provide natural drainage during Top quality practice• tees, Air golf injection course tees, toputting one metre depth wet weather.” HYDROJECT AERATION & pitching greens,• pathways, Relief patios, of waterlogging cart tracks AERATION AND CHEMICAL and lawns professionally designed and installed. For further information contact Terrain Aeration on INJECTION SERVICE (WITHTERRAIN NO SURFACE DISTURBANCE) • Relief of compaction panning Tel: 01449 673783 or visit their website at: Tel: 01962 733222 KEITH DRIVER [email protected]• Injecting air around tree roots www.terrainaeration.com (SPORTurfTST URFand CONTR TreesACTOR) Tel:01273 679994 Mobile:07958 532008 www.huxleygolf.com• Addressing drought and disease 10”124 Wdrillarren Raerationoad, Woodingdean, Brighton BN2 6DB 1m air injection • Soil coring to one metre 1m soil coring Air excavation • Bio-remediation of 68 GI JANUARY 2010 hydrocarbons Tel: 01449 673783 • Air excavation of tree root www.terrainaeration.com layout [email protected] • Soil drilling within top10” depth Contact Lynda Green for further information on our services including the deep drill Tel: 01449 673783 www.terrainaeration.com [email protected] ANTI-SLIP CONSTRUCTION DRAINAGE DRAINAGE

SureTread Advertise here Anti Slip Solutions! from asGolf little Course as £250 Drainage Ideal for sleeper steps, Golf Course Drainage Specialist decks and walkways Golf Course Construction Survey / Design / Installation / Greens / for a FULL 6 MONTHS, Fairways / Bunkers / Complete Courses Remodelling & Alterations For fast and friendly UK • Slip resistant –reduces slips and falls Plastic Pipe / Turfdry Drainage System full colour, pleaseservice call call: • Easy to fit / no maintenance Water Engineering For fast and friendly Nationwide Service • Effective in wet and oily conditions Kirstin on 01347Melvyn 833 Taylor 832 [email protected] • Helps to comply with H & S issues Contact Melvyn Taylor: 01283 551417 on 01283 551417 www.lakelandearthworks.com or email 07836 259133 / [email protected] or 07836 259133 01400 251605 [email protected] 07900693705 www.turfdry.com New horizons for maintaining your environment T 01604 764800 E [email protected] Visit www.bigga.org.uk and check out the latest chat Traditional ARTIFICIAL GRASS from the AGRONOMY greenkeeping industry drainage and

 Lytag banding    of greens and fairways          Construction Remodelling DESIGN : INSTALLATION : MAINTENANCE     Water Features  Pitch Construction : Piped Drainage Systems : Sand Slitting Blec VibroPitch Sand Banding Construction : Koro Surfacing : Piped : Vertidraining Drainage : Topdressing Systems : Overseeding Sand Slitting : Blec Vibro Sand Banding Tel: 01604 468908 Koro Surfacing : Vertidraining : Topdressing : Overseeding If it’s drainage, it has to be Duncan Ross! Tel: 01785 812706 Fax: 01604 474853 If it’s drainage, it has to be Duncan Ross! E: [email protected] www.deltagolf2000.co.uk AFTww wad>.nor thBiggastaffsirr ig40x40mm:.ation.co.uk 6/5/ 180 Ruskin Road, Kingsthorpe, Appley Bridge, Wigan, Lancashire WN6 9DT Appley Bridge, Wigan, Lancashire WN6 9DT Northampton NN2 7TA t 01257 255321 f 01257t 01257 255327 e [email protected] 255321 e office@duncanrosslanddrainage.co.ukwww.duncanrosslanddrainage.co.uk www.duncanrosslanddrainage.co.uk

   Specialists AFT Trenchers Ltd in Golf PHILIP DIXON AFT45 Course Contractors Ltd Est. 1978 For compact tractors from Construction Sportsturf Drainage Specialists 20hp With chain or slitting wheel, augers Golf Course • Sportsfield or conveyor to quickly install Drainage • Construction • Renovation JOHN GREASLEY LIMITED drainage systems, pipes or cables Slitting/Banding • Vertidraining as and when needed. “Ashfield House” • 1154 Melton Road Groundbreaker • Sand Master Syston • Leicester • LE7 2HB Tel: +44(0)1787 311811 Topdressing • Overseeding Email: [email protected] Tel: 0116 269 6766 Spraying • Cultivation www.trenchers.co.uk Mobile: 07836 553899 Fax: 0116 269 6866 Tel: 01772 877289 Fax: 01772 877479 (Preston, Lancs) www.dixondrainage.co.uk FINANCE & LEASING

DRAINAGE Scotland Based CLOTHING / FOOTWEAR 2010 Machinery Finance Meiklem Drainage No Deposit Greenkeeper Contractors Ltd Payments from April 2010 Wear SPEEDCUT CONTRACTORS LTD Sportsturf Drainage Specialists www.gkwear.co.uk SPORTSTURF Golf Courses - Sportsfields Drainage * Construction *New and used equipment* Construction Call today for a quote Shop Online Drainage * Slitting/Banding 25% Discount for Renovation Contact Meiklem Drainage on: 01620 890200 Golf Finance Ltd BIGGA Members - Register Now Sandslitting T: 01383 830217 4 Church Road

FOR FREE CATALOGUE Contact: Kevin Smith M: 07808 897 300 North Berwick E: [email protected] EH39 5NP Phone 01334 653733 OXFORD 01865 331479 All finance subject to status licensed credit bokers Written detail on request.

JANUARY 2010 GI 69 BUYERS’ GUIDE

GRINDERS IRRIGATION IRRIGATION CONSULTANTS Advertise here from as little as £250 for a FULL 6 MONTHS, irritech limited full colour, please call Independent Irrigation Consultants Kirstin on 01347 833 832 Specialising in:- ● Existing system evaluation or email The Ultimate ● System design & upgrade [email protected] Design & installation of irrigation ● Project management Driving Range systems for all sportsturf & landscaping projects. Contact Roger Davey on: Ashford: 01233 619 290 01823 690216 Bristol: 01454 415 428 Phone: 01427 874200 www.irritechlimited.co.uk Visit www.bigga.org.uk Cirencester: 01285 652 272 Fax: 01427 875333 and check out the Devizes: 01380 730 003 latest chat from the Guildford: 01483 286 837 AGRONOMY LAKE CONSTRUCTION LINERS greenkeeping Reading: 01189 884 888 industry

Liners for lakes, ponds and storage lagoons from the Want to sell UK’s leading contractor LEADING THE WAY IN IRRIGATION Comprehensive advice Second Hand • DESIGN regarding design and www.listerwilder.co.uk • INSTALLATION construction of water areas Machinery? • SERVICING Advertise all your machines FOR GOLF COURSES, STADIA, Tel: 01206 262676 RACECOURSES, BOWLING GREENS, www.geosynthetic.co.uk For only £30 per month To advertise within PRIVATE GARDENS & LAKES. www.bigga.org.uk/classifieds Greenkeeper International Please call 0870 8720081 Or call Kirstin on www.ttirrigation.co.uk MACHINERY FOR SALE 01347 833800 please contact Kirstin on 12471A Lely Ireland SQRL classified 4 01347 833 832 or email PLANT [email protected] FOR SALE. Advertising rates: New Turfmech SQRL 600. Sellf--propelllled debriis 1/4 page - £570 collllector for greens,, tees and sports surfaces.. 1/2 page_ £790 D EDUCE Full page - £1500 R TO * Proven growers of hardy AR CLE nursery stock, call for advice on your next grounds planting / Visit www.bigga.org.uk landscaping project. and check out the latest chat Sales hotline: 01728 745145 from the AGRONOMY [email protected] greenkeeping www.johnwoodsnurseries.co.uk industry Main Rd, Pettistree, Woodbridge, Suffolk IP13 OHH ** IIncclludeess ffullll maanuffaacctturreerr’’ss waarrrraanttyy..

RETAIL £10,695+VAT HEALTH & SAFETY NOW £6,000+VAT RUBBER CRUMB Contact Dermot on 00 353 87 6820183

 BIGGA GCMA SMS Lely Ireland Limited, Kilboggin, Nurney, Co. Kildare The use of RUBBER CRUMB on Registered as a user and Tel: 00 353 (0)45 526170 grass as top dressing has been using the system? Email: [email protected] Irrigation www.lely.com granted a PATENT in the UK and Xact can act as your Ireland under Number EP0788301BI External Competent Person providing: TEBBUTT ASSO.  LIQUID ASSET ARE THE LICENSEES • Onsite Support • Risk Assessments & Control MANMANAAGGEMENTEMENT Look at the latest... with CROWN III rubber crumb Turf Measures Reinforcement, the licensed product • Action Plans Call Lely: 01480 226848 or Second Hand Machinery • Ongoing Audit Service email: [email protected] Contact Tebbutt Asso. ...for sale on 01253 342003 or Fax 01253 346644 Contact Xact on 0845 665 3006 www.toro.com www.bigga.org.uk/classifieds e-mail: [email protected] www.xactgroup.co.uk www.tebbuttassociates.co.uk

70 GI JANUARY 2010 VERTIDRAINING TOP DRESSINGS TURF VERTIDRAINING HIRE HIRE

20 years of golf turf experience 5 golf grades including high bent Greens on USGA rootzone, RTF for stabilisation/drought tolerance, Wildflower Turf, and new Low Maintenance turf Tel: 01904 448675 www.turf.co.uk

To advertise within Advertise here Greenkeeper International from as little as £250 please contact Kirstin on for a FULL 6 MONTHS, 01347 833 832 or email full colour, please call Want to sell [email protected] Kirstin on 01347 833 832 Second Hand Advertising rates: or email Machinery? 1/4 page - £570 [email protected] Advertise all your machines 1/2 page_ £790 For only £30 per month Full page - £1500 www.bigga.org.uk/classifieds WASTE/WASHWATER TREATMENT Or call Kirstin on 01347 833800 Hydrotech Solutions

FOR ALL YOUR BULK SUPPLIES • Golf Machinery Wash Water Treatment NATIONWIDE DELIVERIES Specialist Growers of Advertise here • Positive Filtration – Non-Biological 01858 464346 / 433003 Turf for Golf Courses • 200 + Systems Installed Worldwide from as little as £250 • Simple, Low Cost Installation www.banksamenity.co.uk Rootzone Turf for Greens Grown on USGA rootzone, for a FULL 6 MONTHS, • Low Running Costs top-dressed throughout the year, full colour, please call Shirley Aldred & Co.Ltd and mown at 6mm. Tel: 01925 758099 Suppliers of high quality Predominantly bent sward Kirstin on 01347 833 832 Fax: 01925 757519 www.grassgrabber.com granular charcoal for over 200 years Turf for Tees, Surrounds, or email Email: [email protected] ■Use one of the oldest ■ Totally organic product Approaches and Fairways products known to man ■ Large stock levels Various mixtures including [email protected] to treat black layer ryegrass/fescue, 100% fescue, of all grades Visit www.bigga.org.uk ■Prevent thatch build up and bent/fescue grown ■Delivery anywhere in and check out the ■Improve drainage mainland UK within on sandy loam topsoil. and rootzone 3-4 days latest chat NEWNEW forfor 2010 2007 from the AGRONOMY Tel: 01433 620003 TurfRTF for turf bunker for pathways revetting greenkeeping Fax: 01433 620388 and bunker banks.lining. industry TeesTees supplied and laid, with optionaloptional precision laser lasergrading. grading. Tel: 01652 678 000 www.tillersturf.co.uk

Look at the latest... Second Hand Machinery ...for sale www.bigga.org.uk/classifieds

JANUARY 2010 GI 71 RecruitmentFeature

Cheshire West & Chester Council Regeneration & Recreation The Club Car and TORO Distributor in the Middle East is the market leader in the Region. A career Grounds Maintenance Supervisor opportunity has arisen to experience ex pat life in a dynamic and demanding part of the world. £19,126 - £21,519 p.a. Appointments will be for one year, but a long term This post is subject to job evaluation career is available to the correct candidate. Cheshire West and Chester Council have a vacancy for a qualified and experienced person to undertake the management of the grounds maintenance facilities at Knights Grange Sports Complex, Winsford. These include a superb 18 hole Golf Course; 2 Grass Tennis Courts; CLUB CAR SALES PERSON 1 Multi-Use Games Area; 14 Football Pitches and an Athletics Track.

The successful applicant will be working in our Abu Dhabi, UAE office. You must be suitably qualified and be experienced in all aspects of golf course management. A practical knowledge of modern machinery, together with the necessary skills to lead and motivate staff is essential. You must The vacancy would suit a person with a couple of years golf industry have significant supervisory experience and be certified in the application experience and with a strong outgoing personality. Product training of pesticides and be working towards, or have formal training to National will be provided, so product knowledge is not essential, but having the Diploma in Sportsturf Management, Green Keeping or equivalent. personality to support customer needs is critical. The post involves unsocial hours including evenings and weekends

to suit the operational needs of the course. TURFCARE MECHANIC For further information please contact Pam Littler on 01606 552780. Closing date: 29th January 2010. The successful applicant will be working in our Doha, Qatar office. To apply visit www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk

The vacancy would suit a person with at least 5 years golf course or Application forms to be returned to [email protected] or apply online. agricultural machinery experience. Product responsibility will be for both TORO turfcare machinery and Club Car. For any enquires please email [email protected] or call 01244 972503. TAX FREE PACKAGE Please quote job reference number CWC396 in all correspondence.

Sorry no CV’s. Salary paid will be tax free in addition to accommodation allowance, We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applicants from all sections of the community. company vehicle and UK return tickets.

Please send your CV and covering letter to: [email protected] Visit: cheshirewest andchester.gov.uk

Candidates will, ideally, possess appropriate green keeping qualifica- Course Management Opportunity tions, and have a proven history of success in a similar position.

Applications are invited for the newly created position of The salary for this position is negotiable and quality living accommo- Course Manager at Chesterfield Golf Club. dation can be provided as part of the package, if required.

This is a private members club which celebrated its This is a once in a lifetime opportunity – Please feel free to organise a centenary in 1997, and has a prestigious 18 hole par 71 visit and see for yourself. parkland course situated on the edge of the peak district.

The vacancy has arisen as a result of a management team reorganisa- tion which has been undertaken to build on the excellent reputation of Applications, in writing, including a full CV, must be sent to:- the course and to improve and enhance it. The successful candidate must be an expert in his/her field and is expected to be a hands-on The Secretary, person who is capable of leading, organising, motivating and manag- The Chesterfield Golf Club Ltd., ing an experienced greenkeeping team that is committed to providing Matlock Road, a course worthy of the name of Chesterfield Golf Club. Walton, Chesterfield, The Course Manager will be responsible to the Club Chairman for Derbyshire, all operational and greenkeeping duties, which will include:- S42 7LA

- Managing golf course policies and procedures. E-mail address: - Recommending and designing golf course features. secretary@chesterfield golf club.co.uk - Negotiating and commissioning golf course projects - Ensuring compliance with legislation relating to employment, health Telephone No. : 01246 279256 and safety and the environment. - Preparing and managing financial budgets. Closing Date: 05/02/10 - Chairing the Greens Sub-Committee meetings - Attending General Committee and Finance Meetings

72 GI JANUARY 2010 RecruitmentFeature

• Preparing for The Barclays Scottish Open event in July 2010 Mechanic/Workshop Manager • Operation and maintenance of We are currently seeking an experienced mechanic to join our professional an extensive fleet of turf grass and committed course management team. The successful candidate maintenance equipment will be responsible for the full maintenance of our fleet of predominantly • Intergrated pest management Jacobsen equipment. (IPM) The applicant must have sound knowledge of grinding equipment, with This could be a fantastic a high standard of mower setup, being essential for this championship opportunity to gain valuable holding venue. Good communication skills are necessary along with the experience and expand your ability to keep up to date accurate records. We are looking for enthusiastic, knowledge in turf grass and Applications in writing, enclosing a CV to: hardworking individuals to join environmental management. Marcus Weaver, Course Manager our team during the 2010 golfing Machynys Peninsula Golf & Country Club, Nicklaus Avenue, Machynys, Llanelli, Carmarthenshire SA15 2DG season. You can find further information about Loch Lomond on our web Loch Lomond boasts some of the page www.lochlomond.com most breathtaking scenery in the world of golf, with the Scottish ROMFORD GOLF CLUB Highlands providing a perfect To apply for a position or find out Previous Open Qualifier Course backdrop to an exceptional more information please email 7,100 yard parkland golf course or post a covering letter and C.V designed by Tom Weiskopf and along with minimum 2 references. Assistant Greenkeeper Jay Morrish and located in the to: Candidates should have the following qualifications and attributes: North West of Scotland NVQ level 2 in sports turf. Two years Greenkeeping or other horticultural Mary Danielsen, Golf Course experience. A sound knowledge of the skills commensurate with the role of an Experience and Training would and Estate Administration Assistant Greenkeeper. An ability to work individually and as a part of our existing include Manager, Loch Lomond Golf team. Enthusiasm, motivation and a keen eye for detail. • USGA Greens and Turf Club, Rossdhu House, Luss (by Spraying certificates PA1 / PA2 and PA6 would be desirable. Management Alexandria), Dunbartonshire Salary according to experience. • Estate and Environmental G83 8NT Scotland. Please apply in writing with full CV including current salary. Management Closing Date for applications 29th January 2010 • Drainage installation Email The Secretary, Romford Golf Club, Heath Drive, • Construction projects [email protected] Gidea Park, Romford, Essex. RM2 5QB

Deputy Course Manager Required For Beautiful South Devon WANTED! Cliff Top Course QUALITY TRAINEE GREENKEEPERS FOR WORK / TRAINING ON THE BEST GOLF COURSES Qualified to NVQ Level 2 or higher IN THE USA Commencing - 1st April 2010 MUST BE ENTHUSIASTIC AND MOTIVATED Closing date – 5th February 2010 MUST BE 19-28 YEARS OLD, SINGLE, HAVE AT LEAST NVQ 2 OR ONE YEAR OF Please apply in writing or email with CV and 2 references to:- FULL TIME TURFGRASS EDUCATION Nigel Blenkarne, Director of Golf, Bigbury Golf Club, Bigbury-on-Sea, South Hams, Devon, TQ7 4BB GOOD WAGES AND PLENTY OF OVERTIME [email protected] PROGRAMS FROM 6 TO 18 MONTHS HELP WITH VISAS, TRAVEL PLANS AND INSURANCE

PLACEMENT AND ACCOMODATION ARRANGED OPTIONAL TURF CLASSES AVAILABLE

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Online jobs go to Mike O’Keeffe / John Beardmore The Ohio Program, www.bigga.org.uk Suite 360, 700 Ackerman Road, Columbus, Ohio, 43202, USA

For instant online advertising please contact Telephone: 001-614-292-7720 Kirstin on 01347 833 832 Fax: 001-614-688-8611 E-mail: [email protected] Part month £300 See us on the GCSAA Full month £500 www.ohioprogram.org stand in Harrogate The website is updated regularly with new vacancies Get online now!

JANUARY 2010 GI 73 OOnn thethe SoapboxSoapbox AA vehicle new vehicle for people for people within within the industry the toindustry express to their express viewpoint their viewpoint

Jonathan Smith, of The ity, enthusiasm and passion for the superb edge and ability to manage our golf course and actually very worthy and rewarding estate. I will honestly reflect on weaknesses, Golf Environment Group, career I have chosen. seeking advice and support to address offers some suggestions for 3. In doing this I will attend education them. I will not allow misinformed people to New Year’s Resolutions... events and provide constructive feedback to continue to assume golf courses are sterile, my Association. artificial, synthetic landscapes with huge 4. I will strive to work even more closely resource inputs. I will turn this on its head So the finer particles have just settled with our Club Manager or Secretary. I will by walking the walk, and then talking the on another festive season. be a team player. As this businesses leading talk. Creating a course that provides a high Like me you’ve probably had to loosen you decision makers, we will sit down together quality golfing experience, is ecologically belt by at least a couple of millimetres (“Eh! and plan out what we would both like to see rich, resource efficient and a stunning golf What? Did someone say two millimetres? achieved. We will devise tactics that make landscape. Bloody idiots”). sure the cynical, ill-informed fools (I mean 11. The tool I will use to streamline my The good Scottish flock among the customers) that populate our bar and play environmental action, and to present our greenkeeping congregation will no doubt our course, don’t dictate our businesses commitment and performance with cred- have exposed themselves to far too much pace of play. ibility, is the most productive available.. pleasure for their Calvanistic convictions, 5. I will explore environmental issues and GEO Certification (register free on line at and will currently be found in sheds whip- sustainability more closely, and embrace them www.golfenvironment.org/certification). ping themselves with switching rods. as a way to improve my performance, my prod- Now if you’ve just read that, then it means Resolutions designed to herald a new era, uct, my profile and my golf facilities profits. you’ve just said it - at least to yourself. So announced with bravado in the wee small 6. I will no longer view them as a hassle, take the next logical and highly valuable hours, will either have lost their initial piz- as something to be negotiated around, kept step, and make it happen during 2010. zazz, or may already have been broken. at arms length or avoided. Instead I will Make this year the year of low carbon; “I will read all the Disturbance Theory approach the subject with positivity in the high ecosystem golf. papers! I will establish a log of staff training belief that I might actually be able to drive With best wishes for success from the Golf efficiencies and present a Environment Organisation, (whose own better golf experience while resolutions by the way are to support golf in lightening the overall foot- improving its performance, provide practi- ‘tis the Season... print of our operations; cal solutions and appraise and recognise 7. I will start by evaluating credible achievements.) needs! I will secure a budget for a new wash- just how much amenity grass I maintain. I pad! I will not use a preventative! I will attain will reflect objectively on our grassing plan an 80/20 sward composition on the 3rd, and seek opportunities, even if they be small 8th and 17th greens!” and multiple, to relax management, save (NOTE, if you’re publicly stating these time and money, increase habitat, improve kinds of resolutions in front of friends and course character, texture and atmosphere family then you clearly should have taken a and improve water quality - all through one longer vacation). simple and carefully applied policy decision But, if you happen to be struggling for that we will not over maintain areas that resolutions as you look forward to another don’t need it. year among your extended family of green- 8. I will involve people around me. I will keeping colleagues, here’s a few feel good not allow environmental management to ideas you might like to consider. be my sole responsibility. I will engage with Say out loud … (ideally in front of your full colleagues in the clubhouse and the club Board of Directors or Committee) professional to see if between us we can “This year … find ways to reduce waste and energy use, 1. I will help golf lose its image problem. and to better communicate on course man- Golf has one, for various reasons, and agement and environmental issues with a unfortunately that means I have one too. unified voice; Unbelievable as it may sound, people living 9. I will use that team to help put together around golf courses think of my team and I a simple but effective environmental plan Jonathan Smith is the Chief Executive as eco-vandals that are marauding around - that summarises the environmental of The Golf Environment Group our exclusive patch, drawing up dastardly qualities of our site, sets out our policies for schemes to deliberately harm wildlife and addressing priority issues and then sum- to contaminate soil, water, air and anything marises the projects and specific practical Jonathan Smith else we can pass a boom over. actions we will take to improve our perfor- 2. I will make a stand for the greenkeeping mance. professional - not by bemoaning others, but 10. I will let people know what I do and by demonstrating my own knowledge, abil- why I do it. I will be confident in my knowl- The views expressed within On The Soapbox are not necessarily those of Greenkeeper International

74 GI JANUARY 2010 Chipco final 09 14/12/09 4:13 pm Page 1

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