• MANAGEMENT COURSES • ENGINES • PESTICIDES DISPOSAL • FINANCING NEW GEAR JUNE 1992

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Official publication of the British & International Golf Greenkeepers Association JUNE 1992 mmInternational CONTENTS Another winner Use the post-paid Reader Reply Card facing Page 42 for further information on for Westurf the products and services President advertised in this issue. Just The Rt. Hon. 'Enthusiasm' is the word state the companies' Ad Ref Viscount Whitelaw numbers and leave it to us. K.T., C.H., M.C., D.L. which sums up South West ADVERTISERS' INDEX BIGGA BOARD OF MANAGEMENT and South Wales' trade Chairman: Roy Kates a quick reference guide Vice-Chairman: John Crawford show, with over 1,000 Ad Ref Page BOARD MEMBERS visitors and healthy trade AF Trenchers 203 4 Ivor Scoones George Malcolm Brian D Pierson 40 27 Harry Diamond Barry Heaney support. David White Briggs & Stratton Hugh Parry Paddy McCarron 225 20 John Millen George Barr reports from Long Ashton Cleveland Sitesafe 56 8 EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Golf Club Page 29 D&E Turf Maintenance Neil Thomas B.A. 323 42 EDUCATION OFFICER Devenish 307 42 David Golding Dixon & Holliday Management Courses have so much to offer 214 24 EXHIBITIONS/MEMBERSHIP Elwell Buildings 366 8 OFFICER You chance to book your place on a selection of week-long Esso 367 22 Debbie Savage FAF 368 17 courses aimed at improving the greenkeeper's lot Page 26 Fairway Golf Accessories 369 8 Farmura 88 16 Further boost for profession Fen Turf Dressings 168 29 International The future's looking good with more donations to the Hole in White 350 30 EDITOR Greenkeeper Education and Development Fund Page 4 JH Hancox 370 20 David White Lely (UK) Ltd 61 43 Tel: 0323 891291 • Fax: 0323 895593 % Lease Management Services Grand by name... 371 17 DESIGN/PRODUCTION EDITOR Maxicrop 174 30 Tim Moat Littlestone Golf Club's Malcolm Grand is gearing up for the Modus T 62 2 Tel: 0904 610611 • Fax: 0904 643074 Pattisson 35 24 BIGGA National Golf Tournament Pages 18-19 SALES AND MARKETING MANAGER Rhone Poulenc 59 4 Bill Lynch Scandor Landscapes Tel/Fax: 091 413 7218 338 8 Which engine - petrol or diesel? Toro Irrigation 79 44 ADVERTISING SALES EXECUTIVE Town & Country 358 15 Carol Dutton We look at pros and cons Pages 23-25 Watermation 33 27 Tel/Fax: 0207 570117 Colleges • 6,31 Buyers Guide • 35*38 PRINTING DEPARTMENTS Classified • 38 Hi-Tec Print, Unit 7, Universal Crescent, Recruitment 7, 31, 39-41 Houghton Road, North Anston Trading Letters Why do companies offer brochures but not price Estate, Dinnington, South S31 7JJ lists? Is golf turning into a water sport? All these Tel: 0909 568533 • Fax: 0909 568206 and more in our premier postbag Pages 24-25 Greenkeeper International is the official mag- Faces and places John Souter meets another BIGGA, a giant bridge azine of the British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association and is published for Aldwark Manor golfers... It's the page which monthly at BIGGA Headquarters, Aldwark tells you what's going on Page 5 Manor, Aldwark, Alne, York Y06 2NF. Around the Green Updates from our regional correspondents. Find Tel: 03473 581/2 • Fax: 03473 8864 out what's happening Pages 31-34, 42 Please address all advertising, subscrip- tions and address changes to BIGGA. Contents may not be reprinted or other- COVER PICTURE: Littlestone Golf Club, venue for BIGGA's National i closer look wise reproduced without written permission. Golf Tournament. See our feature on Pages 18-19 f at what Return postage must accompany all materials T Greenkeeper submitted if return is requested. No respon- International can do to promote sibility can be assumed for unsolicited mate- YOUR business rials. The right is reserved to edit submissions Here's what one of our before publication. advertisers has to say about Circulation is by subscription. Subscription The BIGGA Turf Management Exhibition and the industry's most effective rate: UK £29 per year, Europe and Eire £39. Seminar Programme is now recognised as the magazine: The magazine is also distributed to BIGGA industry's most significant indoor event. "Kubota are major suppliers members, golf clubs, local authorities, the turf Contact Debbie Savage on 03473 581 for a to the turf care industry and industry, libraries and central government. BTME BIGGA Turf Management BTME 1993 Information Pack and find out our compact tractors are Exhibition and Seminar widely used on golf courses Editorial Offices Programme 1993 how your company can take part. throughout the UK. All magazine contributions should be sent to: Greenkeeper International The Editor, Greenkeeper International, 13 provides a vital link between Firle Close, Seaford, East Sussex, BN25 2HL. Greenkeeper Education ourselves and the Tel: 0323 891291. Fax: 0323 895593. purchasers of golf course Although every care will be taken, no respon- and Development Fund equipment." sibility is accepted for loss of manuscripts, Launched by Viscount Whitelaw at BTME 1992, - BRIAN HURTLEY, photographs or artwork. Opinions expressed the Fund provides the key to the future for Vice President - Director, greenkeeper, golf club and game. Individuals and Kubota (UK) are not necessarily those of the Association and no responsibility is accepted by the Asso- companies can join the Golden Key Circle and Silver Key Circle. For details, contact BIGGA on 03473 581 Find out more: ciation for such content, advertising or prod- BIGGA call Bill Lynch uct information that may appear. GOLDEN KEY CIRCLE COMPANY MEMBERS: GOLDEN KEY on 091 413 7218, Iseki UK Ltd • ICI Professional Products • Toro Irrigation Carol Dutton ISSN 0961 - 6977 Lely UK Ltd • Rufford Top Dress Supplies Ltd and SILVER KEY on 0207 570117 © 1992 British & International Kubota UK Ltd • Lindum Seeded Turf • Hardi Ltd. CIRCLES r BIGGA HQ on 03473 581. Golf Greenkeepers Association Support grows for Education and Development Fund Cash pours in to boost profession's future The Greenkeeper Education and Develop- forward to seeing Gor- teur golf. It is non-profit making and donates ment Fund continues to grow. don, Norman and Elliott large sums to golfs governing bodies towards Former members of the British Golf Green- sporting their attractive international match expenses. keepers Association will be interested to note silver key ties. It is also most pleasing to report that the that the Trust fund established to administer A donation of £1,000 first donation has been received from one of the funds of the former Association has now has been received from BIGGA's sections. A cheque for £200 was been finally wound up by the Trustees and a the Golf Society of Great recently presented by the Scottish Region second and final cheque paid into the Educa- Britain. In expressing Central Section and BIGGA Vice-Chairman tion and Development Fund. The fund has every good wish and John Crawford, who is also Secretary of the benefitted thereby to the extent of encouragement for the Elliott Small Central Section, reports that the donation £22,611.53 and this has provided a firm base Association's work, the Golf Society is was made possible by the section setting-up for the new fund to move forward and fur- pledged to support the amateur game and in its own Education Fund a few years ago and ther advance the status of the profession and pursuance of this sees the furtherance of the that hopefully donations such as this can be standards of golf course management. Over aims of the Association as highly appropriate. continued in future years. Executive Director, the last five years the Trust Fund has been Neil Thomas, Executive Director comments: Neil Thomas commented: "I am delighted at wisely administered by Alan Gamble, Ivor "This most welcome donation is further evi- Central Section's initiative and it is the sup- Scoones, Alan Kite and the late Water Hee- dence of an increasing momentum within the port now forthcoming from our membership les. The thanks of all members are due for game to support BIGGA's aims and objec- which will give a real boost to the fund. Con- their stewardship. tives. This donation follows a previous dona- tributing Regions and Sections will be pre- Following the report in the May magazine tion in 1991 and the Association's Board of sented with plaques in recognition of their that Gordon Child and Norman Exley have Management wishes to express its great support. The progress of the fund since its become members of the Silver Key Circle, appreciation to the Society." launch by our President, Viscount Whitelaw, another Regional Administrator, Elliott Small The Golf Society of Great Britain was at the BTME in January has exceeded my has joined them in membership. It is particu- founded in 1955 by the late Sir Aynsley expectations and enhanced promotion and larly encouraging that Association members Bridgland of Princes Golf Club and aims to financing of educational programmes in the wish to support the new fund and we look promote goodwill and the interests of ama- future new seems assured." The expert at your fingertips! The fairway

DATACHEM is an easy-to-use computer software to better drainage package to aid in the safe, accurate and efficient use of amenity pesticides. The complete range of trenchers DATACHEM is packed with a range of features for today's modern golf course beneficial to the pesticide The 6-39 and the 8-45 - low cost self-propelled user in any amenity and trenchers give positive traction where sports turf situation. ^^m wheeled drive units cannot operate - trenches up to1200mm wide down to DATACHEM can be 2B 1 metre deep with soil collection operated on most IBM conveyor option, compatible computers give a clean efficient job and is available on either every time. 5.25" or 3.5" disks. For more details: Phone Sion Price on 0277 261414 ext: 272 or send coupon.

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Address B-30 TRACKED TRENCHERS A Vibratory mole plow/ trencher Three models to suit all applications now available - ask for details. and all soil types - the complete Phone answer to heavyweight trenching. AF TRENCHERS LTD Rhone-Poulenc Environmental Products AD Edgworth Road, Sudbury C010 6TG Regent House, Hubert Road, S ^ REF Tel: 0787 311811 Fax: 0787 310888 Brentwood, Essex CM14 4TZ ( fP RHONE-POULENC 203 Who and what are moving on and moving in, in the greenkeeping industry

• The Golf Course Superintendents Association of America and Graham Paul. Graham is well known through several (GCSAA) has announced that it will open a fully-staffed years with Rhone-Poulenc and takes over most of North office in Singapore to manage membership activities and London, Essex and Suffolk. John spent several years with services in the Pacific Rim countries. Services will include Supaturf and takes over the South Midlands area. All four education and training, certification, publications, confer- are BASIS certificated, as indeed are all members of the Sta- ences, trade shows and research - the same as in the United Brite sales team. States. Their new operations will cover Japan, Guam, Tai- • Willie Arnold, long time Toro Man' in the north of Scot- wan, Hong Kong, China, Korea, The Philippines, Thailand, land, has moved to larger premises. His new address is Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Australia, New Zealand and Poynerneuk, Pitgair, by Turriff, AB5 37RZ. Tel: 08885 624. India. • Visiting the Shetlands recently, Scot- • Congratulations GCSAA President William R. Roberts said emerging gov- tish turfgrass consultant John Souter and good luck to Bob ernmental interest and concern over environmental and happened upon a ferry which connects Lupton, long time secretary of BIGGA development issues are driving the need for long term edu- the Shetlands to one of the northern North Section, on his cation and quality control throughout this region. GCSAA isles called Yell. Imagine his surprise appointment as currently has a growing number of members in this area. on discovering the ferry was named BIGGA Northern Nearly 4,000 golf courses are in operation and hundreds BIGGA. The explanation is that there Region Administrator, taking over from more are planned or under construction. are two islands around Yell, one called Howard McAddey. Bigga - the big isle; and the other Bob, aged 38, is called Langa, the long isle. The ques- the course manager tion must be posed - will members be at Cleckheaton & District. He joined the able to negotiate advantageous terms? BGGA some 23 years • Otterbine Barebo Inc., the acknowledged world leaders in ago and has always water quality management and based in Emmaus, Pennsyl- been a stalwart supporter of the vania, USA, are currently advertising their products in our cause', having been a magazine and of course you can contact them direct. long standing North Nearer to home, however, Golf Course Services of Market Section committee Harborough look after their business in the UK and you can member and serving specifically in 'The contact Mike Walker on 0858 463153. Not only will this Chair', and as take the strain off your telephone bill, but you won't have to secretary/treasurer. take account of the time difference across the Atlantic...

• Golfers at Aldwark Manor, built in 1876 and headquarters of BIGGA, had to give way to a giant crane recently as a 30 tonne 60 metre span bridge was eased into place between the fairways. Engineers used a 500 tonne mobile crane to lift the steel frame timber decked bridge, which now stands as a splendid course feature and access for golfers and maintenance machinery over the River Ure, running through the picturesque 6,171 yard Par 71 parkland course. This operation brings to an end a two-year project to extend the original nine holes (opened in 1978) to eighteen, and is the first new bridge to span the Ure since 1887, when Ald- wark Toll Bridge was re-constructed. The full 18 holes are now in play, making Aldwark Manor one of the few new courses in the region to be actively encouraging new members. Continued improvements to the golf and hotel complex has seen membership rise steadily and this now stands at 300 for the original nine-hole course. Aldwark's new owners, Chessingham pic, awarded the bridge design and build contract to Beazer Construction NW Ltd, who in turn appointed Ove Arup and Partners to act as When?! construction engineers and designers. January 18-22!

Sharp Fabb Mullins Paul • Sta-Brite Supplies Ltd announce new appointments to the board and two new territory sales managers. Sales manager Chris Sharp is now sales director, and Mike Fabb is con- firmed as general manager and a board director. In addi- tion, Sta-Brite's sales force has risen to seven with the appointment as territory sales managers of John Mullins GREENKEEPERS TRAINING COMMITTEE

APPROVED COLLEGES The Greenkeepers Training Scheme has appointed thirteen colleges in Britain and FOR GREENKEEPER Ireland as Centres of Excellence for Golf TRAINING Greenkeeper Training. Surely the best way to invest in the future is to invest in people. Training and education are the greatest motivating factors. A more articulate and educated Elmwood College workforce will inevitably lead Cupar, Fife, Scotland. to greater rewards and an (0334) 52781 awareness and recognition of Contact Carol Borthwick the greenkeepers profession.

Langside College Buchanan Drive, Rutherglen, Glasgow, Oatridge Agricultural College Scotland. Ecclesmachan, Broxburn, (041)647 6300. Scotland. Contact (0506) 854387 Fax: (0506) 853373 Colin Urquhart Contact Steven Miller

Lancashire College Myerscough Hall Bilsborrow Cheshire College of Agriculture Preston and Horticulture Lanes Reaseheath, Nantwich, Cheshire. (0995) 40611 (0270)625131 Contact Contact Dennis Mortram Martyn Jones KHNBHHSS^KHHRNHH Teagasc National Botanic Gardens Askham Bryan College Glasnevin, Dublin 9 Askham Bryan, York. Ireland. (0904)702121 (0103531)371 636 Tel: Contact Nick Bisset Contact Pat Suttle

Welsh College \ Northop Warwickshire College Mold Moreton Morrell, Clwyd Warwick. Wales (0926) 651367 (035286) 861 Contact Contact Graham Wright Andy Cole

Oaklands College St. Albans, Sparsholt Herts. College (0727)50651 Sparsholt, Contact Ian Merrick Hants. 096 272 441 Contact Cannington College Bob Young Cannington. Bridgewater, Somerset. (0278)652226 Contact Nick Rigden Plumpton College Plumpton, Lewes. (0273)890454 Contact a^^^^ David Blackmur RECRUITMENT See also Pages 31, 39-41

FORNHAM PARK GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB HEAD GREENKEEPER

18 holf Golf Course under construction, This is a key appointment, central to a major programme due to open Spring 1994 of expansion at this forward thinking, innovative Club. require Applicants should have at least five years' experience in a similar position, together with excellent HEAD technical knowledge and the ability to achieve the highest standards of course management.

GREENKEEPER In addition we shall require proven man management skills enabling the Head Greenkeeper to lead with knowledge of modern USGA green specification, and motivate a small, committed team and to generate and full green irrigation knowledge. ideas and provide positive input into our planned Post to commence I September 1992. programme of improvements. Salary negotiable. For the successful applicant this represents a fine No accommodation. career opportunity, with excellent remuneration Applications in writing and full CV by I July 1992 to: package (no accommodation). B W Craven Esq Director Please apply in writing enclosing a full CV and current Golf Course photograph with references to : Yafforth Road, Yafforth, Sean Clark Director of Golf DL7 OPE Fornham Park Golf and Country Club Fornham All Saints Bury St Edmunds Suffolk IP28 6JQ

Woodbrook Golf Club requires a HEAD GREENKEEPER Heworth Golf Club Our head greenkeeper is retiring after 40 years (Tyne & Wear) service. Applications are invited for the position of We need a successor to maintain the Club's reputation as one of Ireland's premier courses - which has hosted many championships over the HEAD years.

The successful applicant will be a fully GREENKEEPER qualified, experienced greenkeeper, with managerial skills. He must demonstrate sound knowledge and practical experience of good to become part of our enthusiastic greenkeeping, equipment maintenance, staff course management team. organisation, supervision and motivation, and a proven record of golf course management. Applications with CV to: Please send written applications with full CV The Secretary by fax to: Heworth Golf Club The Secretary/Manager Jingling Gate Woodbrook Golf Club Heworth Fax: 010 3531 282 1950 Gateshead NE10 8XY VANDAL RESISTANT UTTER BINS ^^ SECURE STORAGE Beat the elements with the Fairway Tee Tidy - new style, UNITS vandal resistant litter bins. SECOND TO NONE FROM Two sizes, 25 litre and 50 litre, have hinged, positive locking lids and quick-change bin liner. Tee tidy's tough, galvanised steel construction can also be powder colour coated to meet customer requirements. FGA offer the patented Ground Gripper System for rapid and trouble-free securing of bins and other golf course furniture, fencing, sign posts and poles. Temporary or permanent fixing. Time and cost saving without need for concrete or other hard surface fillers. Many other benefits. For more information on the Ground Gripper, Tee Tidy and the widest range of golf course furniture available nationwide, contact Mike Smith at FGA. Cleveland Sitesafe Ltd,Park Farm,Dunsdale, Guisborough, Cleveland TS146RQ Fairway Golf Accessories Limited Tel. 0642 475009 Fax. 0642 471036 14, Ashleigh Close, Butts Ash, Hythe, Southampton S04 6QP AD AD REF Tel. 0703 845839 Fax. 0703 207496 REF 369 56 Golf Course THE GREENKEEPER'S CHOICE Construction New Golf Courses Alterations

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Lanascap* Industries PHONE NOW on 021-553 5723 (24 hrs) Scandor Hensting Lane or fax on 021-5801172 Fishers Pond Nr Eastleigh Hampshire S05 7HH Tel: (0703) 692422 Elwell Buildings Ltd AD LANDSCAPE & SP0RTSGR0UND CONTRACTORS REF Fax:(0703)601555 AD 204 Oldbury Road, West Bromwich, West Midlands B70 9DE 338 REF 366 Established over 150 years. he old saw about not picking Tup a 'lost' ball until it has stopped rolling is one that has an ironic ring of truth on many golf courses. Indeed, one course abut- ting a 'difficult tenant' council housing estate with an unusually high crime rate reported no less than 300 incidents of common theft of golf balls in a single sea- son - helplessly witnessed by players as they hacked their way round the outer perimeters of the battlefield. Such thefts are not unusual, and are certainly not restricted to impoverished areas, though this Club's membership upon a novel if tedious method well protected by deadlocks and for combating the crime: Four- properly installed heavy hinges - balls split into two groups with if in any doubt, ask your local the first pair hitting toward the crime prevention officer to visit second, strategically positioned at and follow his recommendations. 200 yards. When the first pair On the subject of fuel, lubricant come alongside their balls the or weedkiller, greenkeepers will defenders walk back to the tee be all too aware of the havoc that and hit to the area protected by even a slight spillage on greens their opponents. It works, but at can cause, and one recent act of the cost of tediously long rounds vandalism reported will serve to and added frustration in an remind of the dire consequences. already frustrating game - not A disgruntled former employee surprisingly, foursomes are now broke into the sheds, purloined increasingly popular! Earlier what what was later discovered to attempts at installing heavy chain be gramoxone, and spilled the link fencing topped with barbed contents over a green, wiping out wire had proven abortive, the a large area. It was necessary to miscreants simply hacking their cut out the offending area and way through or burrowing under completely re-turf, a costly and the fence. A further unwritten law heartbreaking exercise. at this Club forbids members buy- Combating crime has never ing balls from any casual on been an easy task, but there are a course sources, no matter how The battle against destructive forces few ground rules which the wise cheap they may be. greenkeeper will want to see Ball theft is the thin edge, often performed in daylight, are Canine defecation on turf is implemented. At all vulnerable though the demons that manifest not easy, for the riders can be unpleasant to say the least and points of wheeled entry the instal- themselves in the nightmares of exceedingly swift when con- urine can cause severe scorching. lation of very solid precast con- most greenkeepers are of a far fronted by authority - though one Additionally, a rampaging dog crete posts can deter all but the more grim nature. One major good ruse used to superb effect hell-bent on hunting rabbits or heaviest of vehicles, whilst the source of vandalism is that of the was the thrusting of an umbrella wildfowl can cause untold dam- digging of deep and wide outer ill-titled 'joyriding' of stolen cars - between spokes, the resulting age in short time. Incidentally, perimeter ditches will stop all with a golf green an inviting tar- damage seen as a very real deter- have you noticed how dog owners vehicles save those that can be get for drag strip accelerations rent. so often resemble their 'pets' ? lifted, and the laying of 'sleeping and hand brake turns. There is Less traumatic though equally If your trolley shed is open to policemen' on all approach roads nothing joyful in the resultant frustrating is the stealing of pins the elements, this can be an invi- will cause added frustration - misery and damage, which can and yardage markers, these often tation for malicious invasion deterrents all. On private roads, range from deep surface rutting to lobbed into deep rough. The obvi- which often culminates in wheels the fitting of iron gates will stop broken irrigation pipes and almost ous answer on all high risk sites is being strewn over a wide area most intruders, who will be always involves loss of play for to remove pins at end of play and and trolleys drowned in the near- thwarted upon finding their way several weeks - longer if the act to install permanently fixed mark- est pond or stream, or thrown locked and barred at night. takes place during the winter ers (heavy timber or stone are through windows of the club- Why do vandals especially tar- when grass just cannot heal itself. best), embedding them deeply house or maintenance shed. get golf courses? Is it that they Increasingly the villains are not into the ground with cement. Maintenance sheds have always mistakenly perceive golfers as content with just taking out one Vandalism is not totally presented their own special secu- some kind of rich kids on the green and delight in ruining sev- restricted to hooligans, for on rity problems, since they are often block: hurt the rich and you hurt eral at once, on occasions culmi- many common land courses Joe located (indeed, hidden) in ordered society? I have a theory nating in rolling and burning the Public is not above setting up a remote areas away from watchful that vandalism stems from the stolen car on the green. picnic for himself and his family eyes. Here the rule must be to attitudes of couldn't-care-less par- Cars are not the only cause of on a green, with cricket stumps ensure maximum security at every ents, giving vent to violence, wheeled damage however, for embedded in the fine turf for 'the point of entry, barring all win- anger and frustration from their many courses with large open kids to enjoy themselves'. I well dows and immobilising machinery unloved offspring. Theories apart, areas away from the clubhouse remember on one occasion accost- whilst keeping fuel, lubricants, if you are victim to vandalism and have been hit with a lesser version ing such a gathering, only to be tools and valuable equipment all else fails, consider the course of skid-pan antics, these in the told in no uncertain terms to b— additionally locked away in bullet of action taken by one Club, that form of younger brethren with off! proof chests or brick built rooms of vigilante patrols over the peak mountain bikes or lightweight Few would deny that free roam- with very stout doors. Never for- hours of 10pm to midnight. Even pseudo dirt track motorcycles, ing dogs are another problem, get that a flimsy door can easily the most persistent vandal jibs at who have discovered that bunkers and it is hard to find suitable be smashed open with a fire extin- being caught and a posse on the and adjacent contoured areas words of discouragement when guisher or similar heavy object, so war-path will often prove the ulti- make ideal tracks for performing the fangs of a Rotweiller or simi- ensure the door itself is very stout mate deterrent. 'wheelies'. Control of these antics, lar beast are slavering for action. hardwood or steel reinforced and DAVID WHITE GREENKEEPER INTERNATIONAL June 1992 9 In his opening speech to THE YEAR OF together with a personal nominee of work has been undertaken both 1991 began in the chairman. within the Association and through the membership, fine style with Autumn sees three major educa- participation in wider developments the now well- tional events centred on Aldwark. throughout the game. We currently Executive Director established West- The Toro 'Student Greenkeeper of have thirteen approved colleges urf, and though the Year' Award gave us a most with over 1,000 students on Craft NEIL THOMAS was in marred this time worthy winner in Brian Story of Sil- Level courses and a number of col- by poor weather loth on Solway. This is an Award leges running a Phase III - Supervi- buoyant mood in it did little to Scheme which stimulates much sory course and some also a Phase dampen spirits. This show meets a interest and competition and can IV Management course. During the reporting a year of real local need in the West and con- only be for the good of greenkeeper last three years BIGGA has seen the sustained growth and tinues to attract both enthusiasm training generally. The ICI 'Green- need for higher qualifications, from the region and from those keeper of the Year' Award went to specifically HND/Degree level development, one in traders who rightly see it as a valu- David Whitaker of Wisley and he courses. Recently the first submis- able shop window. Every credit, was a most worthy winner given the sion for an HND in Golf Greenkeep- which BIGGA made a then, to Gordon Child and his ener- developments at Wisley during ing was received for our getic team. 1991. David proved an excellent observations and another is pend- 'significant impact7 The Iseki Tournament was a huge ambassador at the recent GCSAA ing. The first HND course will be up success, continuing to cement rela- Conference and Show in New and running at Cannington College in the UK... tionships at regional level and cul- Orleans. October and November this year. Demand will ultimately minating with triumph at the saw five weeks of Management determine the need for such wonderful final staged at Hillside. Courses running and representing courses, but I would suggest that Members were unanimous in prais- the major element of our in-house initially no more than two in Eng- ing this fine course and echoed the training programme. It is a fact that land and one in Scotland would be view that the Iseki event is one that many greenkeepers are inhibited in the optimum need. In Scotland five would be sorely missed should it terms of attending college and the colleges are working jointly to cease to be staged. As members courses are a welcome alternative. establish an HNC course as a fore- know, Colin Gregory was the driv- Aldwark is ideal for courses of both runner to a full HND course. ing force behind Iseki and he has practical and theoretical nature and Progress is being sustained and this now moved to pastures new. That one can foresee a growth in the will further enhance the high stan- stated, we will make every effort to future. dards that prevail in Scotland. ensure the continuance of this tour- As we moved to the turn of the Greenkeeping as a career is becom- nament, which has been a corner- year all roads pointed to Harrogate ing attractive but it will only capture stone of greenkeeper golf since and the BTME. The Exhibition and the interest and imagination of 1988. Seminar programme at Harrogate is future generations if it can offer The Open Championship at Royal the focal point of our year. The sound training up to and including Birkdale in July was a time when industry has supported the exhibi- degree level courses. This must be favourable comment was voiced for tion since its inception and it is of our aim and we will be encouraging our support team, suggesting that major importance to BIGGA's the various bodies to support the both in appearance and conduct our finances. The industry in supporting system and concentrate resources professional image was greatly our exhibition has a right to expect through the approved colleges. enhanced. the Association members to support Work is advanced on the prepara- For the National Tournament to its own exhibition. We have a lot tion of a greenkeeper training man- be staged at Royal St David's in going for us at Harrogate - this ual, commissioned by the GTC. This August it was a personal thrill and year's event was without doubt an is being compiled by a Working gave considerable pleasure to wel- outstanding success and it is fast Party with a major input from the come those who had never crossed becoming the premier event within approved colleges. Initial concentra- the border. They were not disap- the industry - so make sure that its tion is at craft level before moving pointed, for the event was voted by future is not jeopardised by apathy onto supervisory and management many as the best ever, culminating and non-participation. levels. BIGGA is represented on the in a grand banquet and Welsh Much interest was expressed at Lead Body for Amenity Horticulture choir in full voice! A stunning few the GCSAA Conference and Show in and this manual will become the days for which we cannot thank ICI New Orleans in magazine subscrip- basis for National Vocational Quali- Professional Products enough in tions, membership and the BTME. fications in greenkeeping. BIGGA is providing support and active partici- The presence of BIGGA on an inter- actively involved in establishing pation. national stage is important as green- NVQs for the profession and the As we moved towards autumn, keeping develops worldwide and NVQ system will play an important there was a marked increase in whilst we now enjoy fine relation- role in answering national training activity beginning with the Ran- ships with the US, Canadian and needs and in enabling individuals to somes International staged at Ful- Swedish Associations, there is a develop their potential to the full. ford. In October came the annual clear need to consolidate our posi- Much is happening educationally Kubota Challenge at the Belfry, an tion in Europe where many green- - maintaining the momentum of event in which the Greenkeepers keeping associations are still in their progress will not be possible unless have won six times out of nine - this embryo stages. significant advances are made in year we defeated the EGU by eight Coming to the National Education financing courses and training pro- matches to nil! Your Board sees a Conference at Cirencester, this has grammes. need to broaden the basis of selec- most certainly become a prestige Two pence remains the princely tion for such events, which need to conference and, like Harrogate, a sum (per member) collected by the be used to promote the Association focal point in our year. For the first Home Unions and paid annually to as well as the playing of golf. It has time a sell-out occurred with a num- the GTC - yes, just 2p goes into been decided to widen selection ber of latecomers disappointed. The greenkeeper education and training. away from just results in the lecture programme is comple- Last year this produced a sum of National Tournament and although mented by much greenkeeper £16,042 which was matched by the golfing ability will be a considera- debate and each year it is noticeable R&A. In addition a £5,000 contribu- tion, regions will now be asked to how many attendees return home tion was received from the PGA nominate one member of the team enthused for the future of the pro- European Tour. £37,000 then is the both as a golfer and ambassador. fession. sum currently available to in This will provide five of the team, Whilst the major events, awards, the education and training of green- which will be completed with the exhibition and conferences have keepers. Over and above this we are overall nett winners at the National undoubtedly further advanced the dependent on sponsorship and Tournament and Iseki Final, Association, much developmental BIGGA's own resources to June 1992 award schemes and courses. Finan- attending a formal national occa- moting the education and training fear will only be overcome through cially, it's a sorry state of affairs but sion, to dress in tie and jacket of the of greenkeepers. Those agreements involvement - in education, with there may be some hope not too far Association and to follow the guide- are very welcome and I would sug- BIGGA and in interaction with fel- ahead, emanating from 'The Way lines on shoes, slacks and shirt'. Jan- gest mutually beneficial. They gen- low greenkeepers. That is the way Forward', last year saw the forma- uary 1992 has now passed and we erally work well and over a period ahead. tion of the Joint Golf Course Com- are some way from achieving this - of three years have stood the test of Golf in the is mittee (JGCC). BIGGA supports the look no further than the recent Iseki time. The danger we face is of some now a wealthy game - that is unde- new structure - quite simply it has or Ransomes Tournaments for companies perceiving others gaining niable. The distribution of that to be made to work if desperately proof. Since 1987 we have sought to benefit from their relationship with wealth is totally out of proportion. needed resources are to be made present our members professionally the Association to their exclusion At the top end is the pro tour gener- available for education, training and at such events, with BIGGA sweaters and in time this could have a polar- ating vast sums of money, but research purposes. Regrettably from and shirts provided and on occa- ising effect. The launching of the adopting an insular approach and our view, the new structure has not sions blazers and ties have been new Education and Development seemingly showing little concern for got off to an auspicious start and lent. The Constitution must now be Fund marks another significant the development of the game as a there is a clear need for an end to implemented. Greenkeepers have advance for the Association. Finan- whole. As we go down the scale we the prevailing 'politics' along with a made great strides in presenting cial contributions will now channel bottom out with junior golf and the united approach if the new structure themselves professionally but there the resources of the game and the Association constantly seeking fund- is to offer lasting benefits to both is still some way to go - even now industry into one central fund which ing and support. If support is not education programmes and much we are talking of perhaps only 20% will enable the promotion and forthcoming what future lies ahead needed research within the game. who take pride in their appearance financing of educational pro- for the golfing stars of tomorrow In terms of education and train- with some 80% adopting a laissez grammes, scholarship awards and and what will be the quality of the ing, let me conclude on positive faire approach to the detriment of training aids for the benefit of the golf courses on which they play? notes. It is pleasing to report that themselves and their Association. greenkeeping profession. The The work of the new JGCC will be the presentation of the first Master 1991 proved a good year - the enhancement of knowledge and substantial, it must address key Greenkeeper Certificate was made first good year- for our magazine technical expertise will in turn lead issues and the solutions it puts for- by Viscount Whitelaw at BTME. It is since 1987. Its content and to higher standards of course ward will have fundamental effects not easy to obtain, and let no-one presentation have been management. on the future of the game in the UK. doubt that the award indicates that widely applauded Nearly five years on we There is no doubt that the game the recipient has achieved the high- throughout the can stand up and be is now demanding ever higher stan- est standards of excellence within industry whilst proud of our dards in course maintenance and the profession of greenkeeping. At there has been a achievements. Yet presentation - it is the technically the outset of the Association in constant effort there is much to experienced course manager who 1987, BIGGA signified its intent to to improve and be done. We will best be able to meet the make education a number one pri- to reflect the must start by required standards. In turn he will ority and without any doubt the needs of the examining be rewarded by a more realistic best exemplification of BIGGA carry- profession. critically assessment of necessary salary lev- ing out its intent is the MGC. Many We could where we els within the profession. We can golf Clubs are now aware of and not have are falling view the future optimistically - understand the Scheme - this is chosen a down before there are now tremendous job very important - and our experience harder criticising opportunities, but for those obtain- indicates that they will support year, in others. Our ing these top positions there will those employees who set out to the midst biggest need to be more study and applica- obtain the Certificate. Club of reces- problem tion, as well as a grasping of oppor- responses to BIGGA plans and pro- sion, to can be tunity. This way lies the path to grammes have generally been posi- bring the summed up success. tive. However, there is evidence that magazine in one word The demands made on green- for every greenkeeper who com- in-house. - apathy - keepers today never cease to amaze plains that his Club will not support The indus- the apathy me. The depth of technical knowl- his education, there are probably try has of members edge needed to be successful in the two or three Club secretaries who remained particularly in profession is extensive and ever will say that they haven't been supportive seeking edu- increasing. There are heavy physi- asked and were they asked would and levels of cational better- cal demands. There is still much willingly support the staff con- advertising ment. Whilst ignorance on the part of Club com- cerned. have been sus- this can be seen mittees and members to be toler- At the end of 1991, it was pleas- tained - this as a product of ated and overcome each day. I ing to announce that our numbers augurs well for the past attitudes stand committed to improving the now exceed 4,000, giving us a future. We are in within Clubs, many of position of greenkeepers and the strong membership base though highly competitive our members really do greenkeeping profession and with no room for complacency. For business and the maga need to wake up to oppor- BIGGA will not be deterred in tak- whatever reasons we lose some 500 zine has to be run on strict tunities now becoming avail- ing the profession forward to its members each year. It is quite true commercial lines. This is happening able. Many of them lack the rightful place at the forefront of the that we are on a growth curve and we are more than maintaining confidence to pursue those opportu- game - when all is said and done because the number of new mem- our own. nities having in the past adopted the the most important employees of bers each year exceed that figure. I have mentioned the industry traditional role of knowing their any golf Club are the greenkeeping Perhaps this is normal, with mem- and out there many companies who place. Our Management Courses are staff. bers leaving the industry and being have historically supported the pro- designed to instil the self-confidence Finally, my special and sincere replaced. That being the case, there fession are experiencing very hard needed to march into the secretary's thanks to our chairman, George are still large numbers who are not times. The great majority recognise office and make a case for financial Malcolm, for all he has achieved members. If every member went out the benefits of on-going relation- support in the pursuit of training during his year of office. I have and brought one fellow greenkeeper ships with individual greenkeepers and qualifications. The pendulum is enjoyed his steadfast support dur- into membership just think of the and with our sections. It is in many swinging and we can no longer ing the year and no-one should be in impact. ways a small and closely-knit indus- wholly apportion the blame to reac- any doubt of the Membership of the Association try where everyone knows everyone tionary and narrow-minded golf extent to which brings many pleasures and benefits and amidst the competitive rivalry, club committees. Again there is fear George has pro- - it also brings obligations. Mem- a camaraderie exists. Many green- - fear of the agronomist; of the club moted the Associ- bers abide by a Code of Ethics, but I keepers are at ease with company secretary; of the green committee; ation. On behalf sense that this Code lies dormant in reps and pressure selling is rare and of change and of the unknown. It is of you all, I con- most files. Our Constitution states generally unwelcome by our mem- debilitating, insidious and can be clude by thanking that 'After five years from the incep- bers. At National level we benefit career-long. Greenkeepers should George for all he tion of the Association, each full from a small number of sponsorship have nothing to fear and here we has done and member shall be required, when agreements, primarily aimed at pro- get to the heart of the matter. Such achieved. GREENKEEPER INTERNATIONAL June 1992 11 Nice and

eing an island nation, it is natural enough [that many of us should regard the likes of Jacques Delors, the wheeling and dealing behind closed Maastricht doors and the infuri- ating parochial dictats of Brussels based Euro- crats with a fair degree of cynicism. When the long running debate over our entry into the European Community becomes a final reality on the 31st December 1992, will it, we wonder, really turn the key to fresh opportunities for anybody prepared to cross the threshold? In my opinion, the short answer is 'Yes', especially for those of us involved in a whole range of activities which collectively forms an industry geared to supporting the game of golf. Entry into the community of twelve will pro- vide a wider choice of employment and free- trade opportunities: for greenkeepers, golf club managers, golf course architects, con- structors, contractors and manufacturers of equipment and machinery essential for the well-being of today's golf course development, CEDRIC JOHNS management, preparation and on-going main- tenance - providing the Eurocrats are kept at goes on the trail of bay! Such opportunities are not only real, they entente cordiale have been on offer - and in many instances, taken-up - ever since golf started to become popular on the Continent. In the mid-1980s for example, agronomist George Shiels was asked to oversee the standards of greenkeep- Spanning some eighty-odd years, those son organisation have not only been employed ing and course maintenance at the Monte events happened decades after the game of on golf course work in Bordeaux and Toulouse Carlo Golf Club. This eventually resulted in the golf had become an organised sport in this but have also opened an office in Paris to ser- on-the-spot appointment of Mike Merrick, a country. Little wonder then that when it comes vice the French golf market. "Languages are a young English greenkeeper, as "Le Boss" of to the finer points of construction, preparation problem - especially when we receive very greenkeeping affairs on the slopes of Mont and maintenance of golf courses, the rest of detailed specifications from developers over Agel, home of the Monaco Open tournament. Europe eyes Britain with respect. We have a the Channel" says Mark Pierson. "Discussions At that time, Mike didn't speak a word of history, tradition and knowledge of the game at architect, developer and especially hotel French. Having accepted the opportunity to with which they cannot compete. group levels are easier" he says, "for most busi- broaden his career, he later told me that he Why, for example, do you think that this ness people use English". Nevertheless, Mark is spent the entire flight time from Nice back to magazine carries advertisements from golf working hard studying both French and Ger- Heathrow wondering how he would cope - Clubs in France, Germany, Italy and other man. "Our standards of golf course construc- and equally important, just how his wife European countries inviting British applica- tion are usually much higher than those would react to his news! tions for the position of head greenkeeper? accepted in other countries, yet surprisingly Twenty-odd years earlier, the late Sir Henry Being an island nation - and a moderate peo- we are finding that our cost projections are Cotton was taking advantage of his vast pro- ple - we tend to overlook our own strengths. lower", he concluded. fessional playing experience and imagination We are not too enthusiastic about blowing our In Pocklington, Yorkshire, fine turf special- to create new golf courses in Portugal. own trumpets - but this is no time for mod- ists Inturf say that although they are fully com- Going back even further in time, Bob Buck- esty. We can and should get out there and mitted to existing developments in the UK and ingham, head of Hampshire-based Toro show them a trick or two! Eire they are fully aware of the potential of the machinery sales for Europe, tells me that golf Some already have. Mike Greaves, whose European market. As managing director, course mowers manufactured by his company Bucks-based company, Agripower, builds and Derek Edwards, put it, "I believe that Europe have been exported into Germany for over 40 maintains sports pitches and golf courses, will be good for us - both as individuals and as years. views the advent of European free-trade as a a nation. Our present commitments mean that Exceptional cases you may think, but are positive step forward. "We have recently car- we cannot seriously promote ourselves in they? Remember if you will that the game of ried out work on a French golf course - our European markets until late '93. Nevertheless, golf has its origins buried deeply in our sport- first involvement across the Channel - and I we currently have plans to open a new opera- ing history. We were building and caring for see this development as a good opportunity to tional base in Kent - when established, it will golf courses long before Bleriot's flimsy aero- extend our interest into Europe." give Inturf the perfect entree via the Channel plane was the first to stagger across the Chan- In the neighbouring county of Oxfordshire, Tunnel". nel in - when was it, 1907? White Horse Construction Limited say that Dr Peter Hayes of the Sports Turf Research That was long before Germany's revolution- they have received several enquiries from Con- Institute is equally positive. "We have been ary diesel powered train, the 'Flying Ham- tinental Europe. "We have made no real providing advisory services throughout Europe burger' broke all existing pre-war railway attempt to promote ourselves - as yet - but we for a number of years. Indeed, the demand for speed records - and even longer still before are keeping a close eye on the developments," our services is increasing simply because of a General Franco led Spain into his bloody, mili- reports the company's contracts manager, lack of local expertise on the other side of the tary based dictatorship. Kevin Smith. Down in Dorset, the Brian Pier- Channel." However, in the context of turf, Dr 12 GREENKEEPER INTERNATIONAL June 1992 New faces does it... join BTME Steering

Hayes expressed the opinion that even setting it will be taken over by professionals. "Europe Committee aside the possibilities of restrictions being or not, it will all come down to money" says imposed on the exportation of soil, the sheer Jim. "The game will deteriorate into a profes- Two new members have joined the 1993 weight of large deliveries might be uneco- sional lottery - run by and for professionals." BIGGA Turf Management Exhibition Steer- nomic. In his view, British turf suppliers would Greenkeeping? "There are some very good ing Committee. find it worthwhile establishing a link with a young people coming through" he says. Lorna Tyson, from Lancashire College similar, existing company and grow turf on the "Hopefully, they will not be compromised by and Arthur Wood, from Iseki UK, were Continent. Equally, the possibility of problems the dictats of commercially minded introduced at the Committee's first meet- arising when British companies get involved in entrepreneurs motivated by the wrong rea- ing for the 1993 event, at Aldwark Manor other European countries can be real enough, sons." on May 21st. he suggests. Talking of greenkeeping, David Whitaker, The June 1st deadline for space alloca- In Germany, specifications for golf course course manager at Wisley, made some perti- tion had prompted many exhibitors from construction are very much allied to German nent comments related to his experience 1992 to confirm their place for the 1993 based DIN standards - which differ from our gained during a two and-a-half year stint at event, the meeting heard. Together with own BSI requirements. This raises the question Golf du Domaine Imperial, an 18 hole Swiss new companies currently being allocated of Brussels style bureaucracy! Negotiations are course. In charge of a 9-hole in this country space, the Exhibiton halls are rapidly fill- already under way (with the Sports Council and keen to better himself, David jumped at ing up. and the STRI batting for the UK) to endeavour the chance of going to Switzerland. "I didn't The Seminar Programme is now taking to reach agreement on the new Franco-Ger- speak French and my support team of locals shape, together with the Social Pro- man driven CEN standards, which will set the had never seen a golf course before - never gramme, but details are still to be specification for the construction of greens. mind worked on one!' he says. finalised. "Watch this space!" says Debbie At present, standards for the construction of Nevertheless, David soon got to grips with Savage, BTME Exhibitions Officer. soccer and hockey pitches and tennis courts his dual problems and says that he soon devel- Because of the big success in January, are being debated. As an example of what this oped his labour force into a working team - the Old Swan will once again be desig- entails, Dr Hayes tells me that Germans are who wanted to learn more. Like so many nated BIGGA's Exhibition and Conference seeking to establish a standard for soccer young greenkeepers, David moved - in his Hotel. Rates have yet to be finalised, but pitches - similar to the 'super' levels laid down case to Switzerland - to broaden his experi- price increases are expected to be modest for the Olympic Stadium at Munich. ence but not to stay indefinitely. "I always and may not be increased at all. One can imagine the reaction of UK Parish knew that I would return to home soil at some A BTME newspaper is again to be pro- or Town Councils or other local authorities time" he says. duced for distribution to the trade. Com- faced with the costs of providing 'park's In David's opinion, countries such as France, panies planning to exhibit at the 1993 pitches' equating to those standards of excel- Germany and Belgium are waking up to the event are invited to submit information lence! The STRI takes the view that providing needs of providing greenkeeper training. "Lots and photographs for publication. a grass pitch is able of producing an even of chaps went for the money," says David. For more information on the 1993 bounce of the ball, has sufficient traction "Now, thanks to the efforts of BIGGA, salary BTME, or for a copy of the Information (grip) and that drainage is good, the actual levels in the UK are catching-up fast." Pack, contact Debbie Savage on 03473 components used in its construction is of rela- British greenkeepers eyeing EC countries 581/2 or by fax on 03473 8864. • BTME 1993 Steering Committee members are: Neil tively no great import... should also bear in mind that many of the new Thomas, Bill Lynch, Debbie Savage, BIGGA; Linda Man- Golf courses? Dr Hayes is of the opinion that developments are based on America practices ning, Arthur Wood, Iseki; Richard Bishop, Karen Smith, this important area will not be discussed and - sand based greens, creeping bents and wall- Ransomes Sims & Jefferies; Mike Coleman, Fuchsia finalised for another two or three years. to-wall irrigation. These types of courses call Print & Publicity Services; Rachel Semlyen, Rolawn; David Palmer, Supaturf Products; David Boothby, Lely As might be expected, that doyen of British for a radically different approach compared to (UK) Ltd; Roger Mossop, ICI Professional Products; greenkeeping practices and construction meth- traditional UK turf management techniques. Jonathan Harmer, Farmura Environmental Products; ods - Jim Arthur - has his own views on the In the final analysis, Europe is of course all Jonathan Gaunt, Golf Course Architect; Richard Manby, subject. "Bureaucrats and politicians are med- about people, so the last word on the subject Joe Manby Ltd; Lorna Tyson, Lancashire College; Colin Gregory, Hardi Ltd. dling in matters which are beyond their com- goes to BIGGA's Education Officer, David prehension," says Jim, referring to attempts by Golding. "Europe has come to us for green- Brussels to standardise everything - never keepers" says David, "especially since we have mind golf. He continued, "British architects raised the level of education to the point and constructors, some of the most experi- where many young greenkeepers are of out- Modus T set up enced people on the European scene, are standing management calibre. "In contrast", apprehensive about the underlying implica- he continues, "little formal training is, or has machinery factory tions of the Euro-CEN standards relative to been, available to young people in countries golf course design and construction. There is like Germany, Spain, France, Portugal or Hol- The new management at Modus T have been no logic in Eurocrats wasting their time and land". keeping a low profile while setting up their our money trying to impose themselves by cre- Equally he confirmed that BIGGA approved 10,000 sq.ft turf machinery factory at Wem in ating 'rule book' standards which will apply to colleges are increasingly aware of the potential Shropshire. both construction and the management of golf importance of golf on the European continent. "Having a 24 year old engineering company up our sleeves meant that we knew what to courses. Because they have no real experience This autumn, Cannington College (Somerset) do, but I definitely had trouble separating my or tradition of the game they are being blinded is introducing an HND educational programme 'upmilling scarifiers' from my 'cast iron fish by the American way of doing things. They linking European studies with greenkeeping plates", says MD Adam Greaves. Design engi- perceive target greens as the ultimate way that courses. Elsewhere, other colleges have set out neering work on redesigning the Powercore golf should be played this side of the Atlantic. to encourage the use of a second language. and Tri-Master products is completed, with the Unless we dig our heels in, we British are in Yes, the signs are good for those with a posi- Powercore Mkll prototype undergoing exten- danger of selling our birthright down the tive attitude, n'est pas! sive field trials. Inherited quality shortcomings river!" have now been remedied across the range and • The author, Cedric Johns, is an ex Fleet Street all parts are dispatched within 24 hours. Over-riding Brussels, CEN and all that, Jim journalist who now runs his own marketing con- Details, Tel: 0939 233213. is convinced that the game of golf as we know sultancy. He is also the editor of 'Pipelines'. As well as the damage which may may kill or sometimes stimulate be caused to golf greens and other turfgrass growth (Figure 1). areas of the course by pest and dis- ease attack, there are also many Recommendations for control physical & chemical causes of dam- The procedures to be imple- age/injury which may occur. Obvi- mented when physical or chemi- ously it is important to be able to cal damage occurs to golf greens distinguish between physical, chem- depends very much on the exact ical and biological causes of dam- cause of the problem. It must be age as this has strong implications stated at the outset that the best in the development of an appropri- solution is in the preventative ate remedy. In this article, NEIL sense, ie. not to let it happen in BALDWIN, the STRI's plant pathol- the first place! When this is under ogist describes some of the more the greenkeepers control, ie. common sources of injury to golf operations such as fertilising, greens and discusses ways of min- spraying pesticides and machinery imising the damage should a prob- maintenance, then naturally pre- lem occur. vention is the best policy. How- ever, animal damage and amage to golf greens may vandalism cannot be predicted Doccur for any number of and consequently minimising the potential reasons. For example, damage caused is the only practi- the damage may be deliberate cal solution. such as vandalism, or accidental With all types of chemical such as chemical or fertiliser scorch the greatest chances of suc- scorch due to mis-application at cess are if the problem is identi- the wrong time or at too high a fied soon after it has occurred and rate. The use of modern turf care action taken immediately. In the machinery with engines contain- case of spillages of fuel, oil, pesti- ing mineral oil and operated by cide concentrate or hydraulic fluid hydraulic controls can lead to then removing chemical deposits accidental spillages onto the by blotting with absorbent paper green surface. Also, animal urine or by using a proprietary material from female dogs or foxes may such as the flowable formulation scorch severely. These various of 'activated charcoal, which has sources of chemical damage are recently been marketed. The next amplified below. stage is to wash off the turf sur- face with copious amounts of Vandalism water applied to the spilled mate- Unfortunately nowadays, vandal- rial. Addition of a wetting agent ism is of common occurrence on may prove beneficial at this time. many golf courses, particularly The wetting agent 'new improved those in which the public has free Turfex' contains label instructions access due to rights of way estab- for dealing with spillages of toxic lished on the course, or on inner chemicals. This washing proce- city courses which are surrounded pie, spillages of petrol or diesel which they come into contact. For dure may work well if done soon by housing. Vandalism may come (due perhaps to an over-filled example, heavy rain shortly after after the spillage has occurred, from many sources, for example tank) may be the source of the application may wash the total however, if one or two hours have disillusioned contractors have problem. Drips or spillages of herbicide off the path or other passed before the spillage is been known to wreak havoc on hydraulic fluid from leaking or area to which it had been applied, noticed the damage will have the turf areas under their care, as split hydraulic pipes may also especially if the treated area is on been done and severe turf injury have club members who on occa- occur. Field trials at STRI (Figure sloping ground (Figure 3). will be the result. sion feel hard done by, thus seek- 2) are currently investigating the Some of the worst scorch prob- ing revenge. In many cases the use of new organic-based oils Fertiliser scorch lems are caused by total herbi- cause of turf injury by vandalism which are claimed to be less phy- Dry weather (as we have seen cides being applied to golf greens, may be readily identified. If a totoxic than mineral oils. over the last three growing sea- where of course their application burnt-out car wreck is found in sons) or whenever turf is drought was not intended. The problem is the middle of a green then the Chemical scorch stressed, are the conditions under at its worst when a residual herbi- cause is obvious! However, in Perhaps the most important con- which fertiliser may scorch if not cide, eg. simazine, atrazine or many cases identifying the toxic sideration when using pesticides watered in after application (Fig- sodium chlorate, has been substance applied is not easy. is to read the label and follow the ure 5). As the symptoms of fer- applied. In these situations the Identification of the toxic sub- instructions carefully. Under nor- tiliser scorch bear an uncanny STRI undertakes a laboratory stance used, ie. whether it only mal usage chemical scorch due to resemblance to those of fusarium 'growth test' whereby grass lasts in the short-term or whether over application of pesticides is patch disease, great care must be seedlings are grown in contami- it is residual, is vital as this has a rare. However, over application taken to identify the problem cor- nated soil. Failure of seedlings to direct bearing on control methods due perhaps to incorrect sprayer rectly. establish or poor rooting may (see later). One of the most diffi- calibration may cause severe indicate the presence of a residual cult to solve cases I have seen is problems. Certain turf treatments Animal damage herbicide, in which case the only where greens were scorched using such as wetting agents are widely Burn marks due to animal urine, solution is to remove damaged a dry ice fire extinguisher, realised known to scorch fine turf if not particularly during the night by turf and soil below and then only when the equipment in ques- watered in after application, as foxes, may be a problem. Charac- repair the whole area. If, how- tion was found in adjacent heather! demonstrated in STRI field trials teristic symptoms are of circular ever, the problem is due to a non- (Figure 4). Thus the correct use of patches, brown or straw coloured residual herbicide, eg. paraquat or Machinery pesticides and other chemical in the centre, with a lush green glyphosate, then renovation and Despite high standards of machin- treatments must be emphasised. peripheral ring. This scorching overseeding will probably suffice. ery care and maintenance being Extreme care must be taken in the effect is due to the fact that ani- • The author, Dr Neil Baldwin, is the norm on many courses, sadly use of total herbicides as these mal urine contains soluble salts, the Sports Turf Research Institute's accidents do happen. For exam- chemicals will kill any turf in urea and other compounds which Plant Pathologist. 14 GREENKEEPER INTERNATIONAL June 1992 ..

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Town fa Country

3. Total herbicide run-off causing severe damage SPECIALIST CONTRACTORS IN TURF MAINTENANCE "What's going on down there ?

4. STRI field trial evaluating wetting agents for scorch effects

Hydroject™ 3000 Compaction on Greens and Tees etc "in need of aeration"? Get the new Hydroject working for you all year round! Also our Vermeer TS 44 Tree Spade is for hire - transplanting trees on site economically. Call on Town & Country For a competitive hire rate, and professional service within the UK and all European countries. Unit 4, Brainwood Farm, Cooksmill Green, Roxwell, Essex CM1 3SJ 5. Fertiliser scorch, sometimes confused with fusarium patch disease Tel: (0245) 248402 • Mobile: 0831 634644 • Fax: (0245) 248449 very buying decision means to the asset? Under purchase the outset, expressed either as a rate ever, it makes good sense to use a Esomeone must make a financial options title passes to the purchaser of interest or as a repayment in number of different sources of funds decision. A greenkeeper can put either immediately (cash and loans) pounds (£s) per thousand bor- to spread the cost of investment and enormous effort into researching the or at some later date (hire purchase rowed. However, the real cost is to relieve pressure on existing lines best machines for the course and and other deferred sale options). only known when all the costs and of credit. Finance companies, often making a selection after carefully Under 'hire' options (eg. leasing) the benefits, eg. tax concessions and subsidiaries of major banks, provide evaluating demonstration perfor- title never passes to the hirer, but cashflow advantages are taken into a choice of lease and purchase facili- mance and price. But if the person that is not to say that Clubs which account, together with any special ties at competitive cost to fund vehi- responsible for the financial decision lease lose out. Some could have a fees charged in connection with the cles, machinery and fixed says 'We can't afford it', then the lot to gain, particularly when the facility. For example, an arrange- equipment. proposal, irrespective of its value, is overall cost of funds is taken into ment fee charged by a bank for a • Cashflow: halted. account. loan or the percentage rebate of There is a popular misconception All too often a Club can afford it, Where the Club is aware of the rentals passed to the lessee at the that a deal done for cash must be but ignorance of the funding alter- funding alternatives and is prepared end of the lease. These are costs the best deal, but will a new natives means that decisions are to consider them, the question then which are not immediately obvious. machine work any harder because based on the assumption of a fixed becomes 'What is the best way to Interest too, can be expressed in a you pay cash for it on day one? financial 'pot' to cover all invest- fund it?' and there are a number of variety of ways. Simple interest Instead, paying cash 'up-front' prob- ment for the year. As a result, capi- basic criteria that a Club can apply expressed as a Flat Rate Percentage ably places an additional strain on tal is rationed to balance investment to make a better financial decision: always looks more attractive than existing lines of credit. It can even priorities- against the need for any • Cost of Funds: the corresponding True Rate. There- increase the overall cost if the funds substantial increase in membership Price and cost are two different fore to compare the cost of one are borrowed on overdraft. Better to subscriptions. Put simply, fixing the concepts. For example, you know finance deal against another, tech- plan investment with repayments clubhouse roof may defer a decision the price of a machine the day you niques like Discounted Cashflow are matched to income. Monthly pay- on a new greens mower. buy it, but you only know what it valuable, even to non-commercial ments may be fine for most busi- There is an amazing array of cost the day you sell it. That is after organisations. nesses, but not for organisations funding sources - from cash to you have totalled-up the running • Availability of Funds: with seasonal income. The size and banks and finance companies - but costs, including repairs and mainte- For most Clubs the first call for timing of payments should be fixed the funding options can be divided nance - not to mention how well it additional funds will be the bank, in advance to minimise impact on quite simply into 'Buy' or 'Hire'. The performed under different condi- either for working capital through cashflow and to fit in with budgets. key difference between the two is tions. It's the same with funding. current account and overdraft facili- For example, it may be better for who retains title (legal ownership) Lease or buy, you know the price at ties or for longer term loans. How- many Clubs to make payments in

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AD Gl.6.92 REF Post Code _ _ Tel No:. Farmura Limited, Stone Hill, Egerton, Ashford, Kent TN27 9DU. Telephone: Egerton (023376) 241. , REDUCE YOUR February, March and April each the supplying dealer. year that fit in with subscription Whilst zero percentage finance is income. Spreading the cost, rather attractive, don't overlook longer JIN^NCIAL HANDICAP than making one big payment each term alternatives. If you intend to year, also takes pressure off cash- keep a machine for five years, why flow. not pay for it over the same period. Sometimes things happen that Where low cost funds are available fall outside existing plans and bud- it may pay to lock into funds with a Every Golf Club increasingly has conflicting gets. For example, a tractor breaks true cost well below bank base rates calls placed upon its valuable working down and repairs are uneconomic for as long as you can. In addition, compared with replacement. A care- the fixed payments will help you capital. So the need for a totally dedicated fully structured lease or hire-pur- budget more accurately. leasing service has never been greater. chase agreement can put a new Capital investment is essential if tractor on course in mid-season Clubs are to deliver what the mem- Lease Management Services provides an with payments timed to coincide bers want - whatever that may be. with the following years subscrip- One thing is certain, with increasing exclusive range of competitive funding tion income. This reduces stress on playing demands being made on options to help Golf Clubs equip to meet the current lines of credit. In addition, every course, the green staff need using credit instead of cash does not up to date machinery and equip- demands of the present day. reduce your bargaining power, ment to cope and that means addi- because the supplier is not aware of tional investment. So, when putting We also have extensive vehicle purchasing how you intend to fund the a proposal to committee, or making powers enabling us to source any car of your machine. your own evaluation, look beyond • Investment Incentives: the technical justification for the choice at advantageous prices. Excluding low cost loans or machine, to the way in which it can grants that may be available (eg. be funded. So contact LMS today to discuss all of your brewery loans) substantial savings • The author, Eddie Henderson, is a equipment and vehicle requirements, and at can often be made by acquiring director of NMB Farm Finance. He is machinery and equipment on low also the current captain of the Agricul- a stroke your club could be enjoying these tural Engineers Association Golf Soci- cost Lease or Hire Purchase finance ety and a member of Aldwark Manor benefits... available with the machine through Golf Club.

IMS DEDICATED SERVICE COURSECARE LM5 NO CAPITAL OUTLAY FINANCE IMS 100% TAX DEDUCTIBLE IMS FIXED COSTS FLEXIBLE FUNDING FOR GOLF COURSE MACHINERY AND INPUTS IMS SIMPLE BUDGETINcN^ • LEASE PURCHASE IMS EASY TO ORGANISE • LEASE FINANCE Gl.6.92 • CONTRACT HIRE NAME, • GROWCASH INPUT POSITION. FUNDING CLUB ADDRESS Whatever your finance needs, short or long term, machinery or inputs, contact FAF on 0800 378655 for advice, support and a really competitive quotation. POSTCODE.

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FAF) LEASE MANAGEMENT SERVICES LIMITED, ESHER HOUSE, ESHER GREEN, ESHER, SURREY KT108BU. TEL: 0372 467711 FREEFAX: 0800 282374 A member of the National Westminster Bank group AD Farming and Agricultural Finance Limited, New Agriculture House, Barnett Way, REF Barnwood, Gloucester GL4 7RT. Telephone: (0452) 371911. 371 AD HEAD OFFICE QUOTELINE 0800 378655 REF 368 by DAVID WHITE It is not surprising that greenkeepers look to great locations for their own National Championships; and a quick perusal of previous sites upon which our champions have been crowned will reveal no weaknesses in that sphere, our quest being always for challenging courses that bring out the best in the best players. Littlestone is no exception, located in that corner of Kent noted for its fine turf - a veritable gem of a links course so close to the sea we snuff the salt deep in our nostrils. It is a wonder- ful test of golf, playing host throughout its 104 year history to a multitude of championships, including use as a qualifing course for The Open. This attraction as a championship site is easily explained, for though at first glance Littlestone appears to be wide open and begging to be murdered, it defends its honour with subtlety rather than great length and has an unusually high number of outstandingly fine holes. The fairways are quite wide, the turf a delight; and the greens are always swift but never impossible - and therein lies the rub. The greens are quite small, they are well defended by bunkers that properly defend - indeed every single one of its 94 strategic bunkers (added to at various times by James Braid and Alistair Mackenzie) play an absolute part in giving the course its reputation, this despite arguments that rage over the modern ball and its 'lengthy' nature. Add to this the breezes that sometimes snarl in over the English Channel, with their propensity to dry out those holding characteristics found inland; and you have a course where finesse beats the erratic slogger every time. Malcolm Grand, the Club's dedicated head greenkeeper, is of the opinion that the run-up shot - the bump and run - will be the shot to practice; and as one who has dedicated all his work- ing life to his craft whilst spending the majority of his time on linksland courses, his opinion is one would-be champions will do well to heed. Meeting him was a real pleasure, made the more so by his immediate declaration that greenkeeping is a career that gives him huge pleasure and satisfaction, and when I learned that this love had been forged from early links with Rye - just down the road from Littlestone - where his father was in charge of the victuals at that famous Club, it came as no surprise. Taking up the story, Malcolm told me that without parental pressure - though heeding Dad's sound counsel - he opted for the attraction of working in golf and joined the Rye greenkeep- ing crew under Frank Arnold, straight from school at 17, a move he has never regretted. There must be something about the magic of the place, for the 'Grand' invasion of golf contin- ued when Malcolm's younger brothers, Simon and Garth, both took up greenkeeping careers at Rye; and though Simon has now moved to Highgate as first assistant, Garth remains a dedi- cated Rye man, working under Trevor Ockendon, who took over as head when Frank Arnold retired. In the event, Malcolm left Rye following six very happy years in which he learned his craft well, moving for the first time to an inland course at Newark, though Malcolm and Trevor Ock- enden remain good friends to this day, sharing in the same delights and challenges of managing true linksland golf. Joining Newark as first assistant, Malcolm was to work a dif- ferent type of course entirely, one where lushness prevailed and where tree planting (necessary following the front nine coming under the plough during World War II) was a seemingly contin- uous activity. Two years as first assistant was followed with promotion when head greenkeeper Les Bakin retired; and for a further six years Malcolm was the 'main man' - in his own words, 'a happy time at a happy Club'. Inevitably for a Southerner, the urge to return to one's roots remained strong, though it was quite by chance that Littlestone came to Malcolm's attention. On a visit in 1986 to attend his sister's wedding at Rye (where else!) he heard on the Grand3 I Malcolm! 'grapevine' that Littlestone were seeking the though links golf is different - with its humps ment, but I have a sneaky feeling he'll be services of a head greenkeeper and hot-footed and hollows, its bounds and ricochets - it is relaxing come sundown on August 12th. along for a pow-wow with secretary Bill Bai- this very difference that makes it attractive 'Will you be 'tricking' up the course in any ley, who offered him the job straight away! beyond measure. The green committee at Lit- way, creating anything out of the ordinary?', I I asked him if he had inherited any problems tlestone do well to insist upon maintaining the asked. He grinned - 'I'll look to make it as at Littlestone, the answer being a categoric no! status quo, for once a links course is allowed tough as its 6,424 yards can play for those 'The course was in lovely condition', he said, to degenerate (not too harsh a word) into three days, but at-Littlestone in August the 'indeed, just as it has always been'. Offering an lushness and 'green grass at any price', the weather will do all the tricking for us. The opinion as to this phenomenon, he suggested quality that is links golf is lost forever! course can and probably will dry out to an that perhaps it was because in the so-called We talked of visits from the STRI, Malcolm extent that will make it 'fiery' and the run-in boom years when everyone was mucking their pointing to the advisory reports eminating approach shot will be called for, though play- greens up by applying fertiliser by the truck- from agronomist David Stansfield and suggest- ers may get a false impression from the grassy load, Littlestone had the good sense not to ing that nothing much had changed over the fairways on the first five or six holes. There is waste their money. 'Are you still mean with years. 'From Jim Arthur's earlier visits, when no logical reason why these fairways should fertiliser', I asked, to which Malcolm grinned he was agronomist for the R&A Championship yield more grass cover - perhaps it's how before replying, 'the fertiliser reps get fed up Committee, down to the present visits of David reclamation from the sea has left us - but we calling on me, for we use so little. Last year we Stansfield, the same sensible, logical and often need only to gang-mow just these six, used none at all save a liq- workable ideas still per- leaving the rest! Green speed will also be dic- uid 50/50 feed dressing sist, he said, 'Jim Arthur's tated somewhat by nature, which means fairly on the greens - just to policies are still very fast - or downright rapid if the drying winds keep them pretty - and much with us, albeit writ- take control! I rarely need to cut lower than you can see for yourself ten with a different pencil 3/16" on the mainly fescue/bent surfaces. how good they are'. - nothing much changes, We've a wee bit of Poa annua, but I verticut Indeed, I have to admit which pleases me'. the life out of it - weekly if the greens look as those Littlestone greens Malcolm has had one though they can stand it - and the slit-tiner putt as well as they look, big surprise this year, a gets used regularly, with as many passes as which is very well indeed; pleasant one but a sur- possible, from the end of summer 'till spring. and would opine that this prise nonetheless. I asked The greens drain freely and we never have any might also be down to the him when he first learned surface water even after a downpour, never- intelligent use of water. about the BIGGA Champi- theless I run the Vertidrain over every two Throughout those afore- onships coming to Little- years or so - largely as a safety measure'. mentioned boom years stone. 'When you shook Malcolm is confident that if the weather Littlestone was without my hand four months holds to form - which means little rain - tight automatic irrigation, and ago, on the first of your lies will be the order of the day, which will although they now have photographic visits', was please the better players no end. He has this facility, the past two his candid reply. 'When supreme confidence in his loyal staff; with first years have seen drought you came and said to me assistant, John Stickels, having no less than 22 orders enforced, with "getting ready for the big years service with the Club - a veritable God- minimal night-time water- one?", I thought you were send. 'They're a fantastic crew: dedicated, ing only. Though forced referring to the English loyal, and very hard working - I cannot praise upon them, this is in many ways a blessing for Ladies Stroke Play Championship, which is them highly enough' - commendation indeed! the predominating bents and fescues, kept to here at the end of July. I didn't let on to you, perfection principly by the use of the hand- but I had no idea; and it was only when I got held hose. home and found my latest copy of Green- 'I'm very happy with the Watermation sys- keeper International that I realised you were 5 Tractors: (2) John Deere 3 Lloyds Paladins not kidding!' (1) Kubota (2) Old Inter- 1 6' Perfect rotary tem installed, complete with TW2 controller, nationals 1 each Cushman drag-net, and it's a boon if used intelligently', says Mal- It says something for the man that he took 2 Cushman trucks top-dresser, sprayer, colm, though he chuckled when recalling early this surprise in such good spirit, and as he was 2 Ransome180s multi-depth aerator and conversations with the installer: 'how does all quick to point out, 'we are always ready for 1 Jacobsen Tri-King brush. 2 sets Ransomes Hydraulic 1 Ryman Sod cutter this high-tech stuff work?' he asked, 'don't the big occasion anyway, my policy being that Mounted 5s 1 John Deere brush cutter know', came the reply! He has it mastered the course should be as good for a monthly 1 set Ransomes 214 1 McConnel Ditch-King now, thanks to some schooling at a Waterma- medal as a British title championship. Big rough-cut and thatching 1 Royer Power Screen tion training session, though he thinks the real events don't frighten me, but I would be kid- reels 1 Compost shredder 2 Toro greens mowers 3 Tipping trailers learning is largely down to experimentation ding you if I didn't feel a little apprehensive at (GM3 & GM300) and using the system - playing with it. the thought of being judged by my peers - I've • Machinery is shared with the adjacent Warren course. \ If I am allowed another opinion here, I no holiday booked until the event is history which is also maintained by the Littlestone team. An addi- would suggest that Malcolm's avowed credo - and I'll be on tenterhooks until the BIGGA tional nine holes at the Warren have recently been con- minimal watering at a rate just enough to keep Championship is over - then I'll either be structed by Malcolm Grand and his crew. the grass alive, is extremely sound indeed, for sacked or relaxed!' He laughed at this com- etrol or diesel, which is best? Of course the answer depends Pon so many variables but probably the most important of all would be the type of equipment to be powered. A solidly built, heavy diesel engine could be suitable for the larger ride- on commercial mowers but is it right for equipment that travels over sensitive greens and other fine turf? Perhaps a lighter, qui- eter, vibration-free OHV petrol engine is a better alternative. The advantages of petrol over diesel can be summarised as fol- Now that the original motor 180 engine is lows: Typically a 12kw petrol engine will weigh only 32kgs, obsolete, a kit has been developed to fit the reducing the chances of equipment leaving ruts or compacting Kohler Command 12.5 H.P. engine as a the surface. As the petrol engine tends to be more compact it replacement. allows equipment manufacturers to reduce the overall size and The Command engine gives more weight of the equipment. power and costs less to run. Low noise levels: Comparing like for like a petrol engine will be A usable machine quieter than an air cooled diesel so it is often necessary to build for the price of an expensive enclosures to reduce noise levels from diesel engines engine makes to acceptable levels. economic Lower vibration: Modern petrol engines such as Briggs & Strat- ton's Vanguard 16HP V-Twin have very low vibration giving high levels of operator comfort and minimising the need for a reinforced chassis and mounting plate. Better starting: Especially in cold weather the petrol engine Get the facts from: will normally start easier than the diesel due to its lower com- pression ratio and the higher volatility of the fuel. AD J. H. Hancox Ltd., Alcester Road, Portway, Fuel economy: This is the area where the diesel usually has the REF 370 Birmingham B48 7JA. Tel: 0564 824343. biggest advantage but the latest OHV petrol engines are up to 30% more fuel efficient than the older side valve designs. And of course they can all run on unleaded fuel, which now costs about the same as diesel. The fuel consumption for a 12kw petrol engine running on a typical 50% load would be approxi- mately three quarters of a gallon an hour. AT THE HEART OF Lubrication: Modern petrol engines now have pressure lubrica- tion systems with external oil filters - just the same as their A WINNING diesel cousins. COMBINATION The environment: Improved carburettor design has resulted in lower emission levels and catalytic converters will soon be available for some engines. Most petrol engines can also be run on environmentally friendly LPG (Liquid Propane Gas). Equipment manufacturers often offer a choice of engine allowing prospective purchasers to make the decision them- selves on which type of power unit is most suitable for their operation. n recent years there have been many improvements in Ilightweight, high speed diesel engines which make them suit- able for purposes for which they would not have been consid- ered a few years ago. The diesel unit, because of its high compression ratio - often in the region of 20:1 - has to be a robustly constructed engine which in turn is one of the factors that leads to a long service life. Often they are now of a size that makes them interchangeable with an existing petrol engine which is fitted to an expensive piece of machinery. Diesel advantages: Amongst the advantages of the diesel are a much lower combustion chamber temperature leading to far longer valve and piston ring life, less dilution of the oil on the cylinder bore during cold starting and a very much improved fuel consumption. If 'red' diesel is being used, fuel bills can be the name you can trust from cut by as much as 75%. It is normal for a diesel engine to run for 1,500 hours before it needs decarbonising and the injector cleaned and reset and a further 1,500 hours before a rebore needs to be considered. As many engines are built to have two or three overhauls in their lives, a total life of 10,000 hours is not an unreasonable expectation. This, together with the out- standing fuel economy, will repay the extra first cost of a diesel Briggs & Stratton UK Ltd, Hubert Road, Brentwood, Essex CM 14 4JE engine many times over. The essential advantages of the diesel Tel: (0277) 262552. Fax: (0277) 262547. Telex: 995295. engine are: Robust construction, long engine life, good fuel economy and reliability. Then the question is, can I get an engine to fit my machine? The answer is most probably yes, as engines are now available in a very wide range of configurations from single and twin cylinder air cooled units which can be obtained in horizontal or vertical crankshaft form through multi-cylinder water cooled units. Engines are available with drive from either or both ends of the crankshaft and with additional PTO's for hydraulic pumps. Starting can be by rope, recoil, hand crank or battery. Power ratings can be from about 5hp onwards with very good torque characteris- tics. As much machinery used on golf courses is imported from America (where fuel is cheap) the use of high horsepower petrol engines goes by unnoticed. In the UK, however, petrol is very expensive, particularly in relation to gas oil or 'red' diesel, so much so that a diesel engine can more than pay for itself in fuel saving in less than a year. If these savings can be made on a long life engine for one piece of equip- ment, imagine the scale of economy when a whole fleet of golf course equipment is considered; and as every course manager and greenkeeper will know, cost is of paramount importance. All courses have tractors and therefore diesel fuel will be readily obtainable. Its extended use will reduce the quantity of highly inflammable petrol that needs to be stored at any one time. Now that diesel engines are made to be more readily started, many of the small units can be as easy to start on the recoil as a petrol engine. The multicylinder indirect injection engines have heater plugs and many or all of the features found on modern automotive diesel engines to ensure that they are trouble-free cold starters. The diesel no longer need be regarded with suspicion, for it can be easily started, is reliable, economical and has a very long service life. There is a type and configuration for that expensive equipment with a long life, low fuel con- nearly every job on a golf course. As we have already seen, sumption diesel engine. engines can be bought from small air cooled single cylinder • Greenkeeper International acknowledges the assistance versions to multicylinder liquid cooled units with their own given in compiling this comparison feature from Briggs & radiators. Now is the time of year to consider re-engining Stratton (petrol) and Tecnamotor (diesel).

Enginby HUGHe TILLE efficiencY y means less pollution says one leading maker of such engines. Another result in better ignition, - thus a cleaner, quieter uel economy was the prime goal for engine manufacturer suggests that one gallon of diesel burn and improved fuel efficiency. Fdevelopment a few years ago but now the will do the work of three gallons of petrol, simi- Solid state or electronic ignition has made a goal posts are in front of lower emissions and pol- larly he estimated the service life of a diesel to be dramatic improvement in both the reliability and lution control - reflecting demand by customer, twice or three times as long, perhaps 10,000 performance of small petrol engines. Most people user and the general public. In particular the golf against 3/ 4,000 hours. This may be exaggerated have also been converted to low octane unleaded playing public is expecting mowers to be seen as the latest petrol engines also have improved fuel without real trouble. Many of these petrol (but only if essential), but not heard nor smelt, consumption and a longer service life. A number engines now have automatic decompression sys- (nor should they smoke or otherwise pollute the of American manufacturers have been a little tems which dramatically reduce the effort atmosphere). For the operator there are also tardy in adapting their machines to diesel - required to start them, this is particularly notice- health and safety hazards in noise and toxic and because 'gasoline' is cheap (in America). In the able with recoil starters, but it also applies to key obnoxious emissions which have to be avoided. UK, diesel has many advantages and prime rea- starting. Because the engine spins more readily so Development is also taking place in engine man- sons for specifying it include the ease, safety, and is it quicker to start -making 'first pull' starts more agement systems which offer considerable scope convenience of storing. Considerations over of a reality. The saving in broken cords and frus- for improvement in engine efficiency, the main whether to specify diesel or petrol must also look tration can be quite real too. factor restricting their introduction appearing to at annual running hours: some machines will Diesel engines are now available from about be cost and acceptability. never put in sufficient hours to justify the extra 5hp, and while they are more expensive than an There is a clamour for bio-degradable and syn- cost of a diesel engine. Significant advances have equivalent petrol version they may now be very thetic oils though this ideal has yet to match the been made in petrol engines, and petrol is still little heavier. Air cooled versions can be expected reality. There has been rationalisation in the the predominant fuel for pedestrian operated to be noisier that an equivalent liquid cooled ver- number of makes of small engine used in turf equipment, and because weight, simplicity and sion, but the deeper note of the diesel may be machinery, perhaps as smaller makers fall behind cost are usually important, most are air cooled. more acceptable than the more penetrating tone in R & D and marketing, and today is the day of Much noise has been designed out by better bal- of an air cooled petrol engine. the lightweight, high speed, compact diesel anced components and improved ignition cham- The latest generation of diesels, particularly engine, especially for the professional who values bers, and the trend is towards overhead valves for ride-ons etc., are likely to be compact multi- the greater economy and reliability they offer - so which, while more complex and expensive, do cylinder water cooled designs, and these * 23 GREENKEEPER INTERNATIONAL June 1992 21 YOUR BUSINESS WILL RUN SMOOTHER AFTER AN OIL CHANGE.

* ki

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QUALITY OILS

REF 367 21 will be seen more and more widely on golf courses as manufacturers ranges expand. These engines are inevitably of the indirect injec- Liquid cooling provides tion type which means they have a pre-combus- tion chamber. This 'feature' may be lost on the average greenkeeper, whose main interest is whether they work reliably. What he will notice is that indirect injection engines (usually) need the added advantages air in the cylinder to be pre-heated (with a glow- plug) before they will start, whereas the direct injection design, prevalent on tractors, will nor- and wheels, ensuring these are maintained at the also speculated that equal problems come from mally happily start after a few turns of the starter speed set by the operator. Huxley's experience is the additives and pollutants, often toxic heavy - battery drain is about the same either way. Indi- that the EDC unit responds faster and more posi- metals, which are in the oil. rect injection is slightly less economical on fuel tively than the mechanical governor on the Several firms are offering synthetic lubricants, although paradoxically it is actually more fuel engine, and they claim quieter operation, reduced particularly greases or special purpose lubricants efficient, it is also significantly quieter with a engine loading and lower fuel consumption. The such as chain-saw oil. Teflon and other additives lower level of particulate emissions - ie. smoke, - unit was proven in similar hydrostatic drive appli- are available which can reduce friction and thus telling advantages which come from the better cations in the construction industry. Turbo-charg- wear - claims are many, but few are actively 'sold' controlled and relatively slower burn of the fuel. ing is also becoming increasingly acceptable, and by either engine or oil suppliers. A major problem Despite the extra complications of radiator and while in the first instance it was seen as a way of with engine lubrication is that the oil has such a circulation system and the extra cost, the majority increasing the power of an engine, by 'blowing' multitude of tasks to perform: to clean, intercept of compact diesel engines have liquid cooling, extra air into the cylinder, it does offer a method and hold in suspension the products of combus- usually water. The significant advantages of this of improving combustion efficiency and so reduc- tion and wear, transfer heat (from piston etc), are in providing a more effective medium for heat ing emissions. Turbo-charging places greater bur- protect against corrosion and reduce noise as well transfer, and by providing a sound deadening dens on the oil, however few manufacturers are as lubricate. Typically there may be nine different jacket around the noise generation combustion now specifying specific oils for diesel and turbo- additives to augment the base 'oil' in these duties. chamber. If radiators and so on are an abhor- diesel engines. Reducing emissions also includes Most engine oils are now multi-purpose, in rence, or unsuited for other reasons, perhaps an reducing crankcase emissions - a major source of other words, suitable for both petrol and diesel air cooled petrol engine is the better option. pollutant, and this means better ring sealing, and engines, normally aspirated or turbo-charged. It The 'engine management system' on most lower oil consumption. Lower oil consumption may be possible to save money by going for a small engines is a hand/foot throttle and mechan- has a down side - there is less 'topping up' to cheaper oil if none of your engines requires a ical governor with advance and retard mecha- replenish the additives in the oil. At the same high performance oil, but the saving is so small nism. Motor racing is pioneering electronic time engine manufacturers are trying to extend that the wisdom of this must be questionable - controls which sense more parameters faster, and their service intervals. If there is a lesson to be and if you upgrade to a new diesel mower or as well as the setting of the throttle and the learned it is that the less often one fills or refills tractor you may be left with a drum of oil which engine's revs they can monitor load and power the sump the better quality of oil one ought to you should not use in it. Most of these refine- demand to give a faster response and significantly buy. One major lubricant manufacturer told ments (in engine and oil) came by evolution better fuel efficiency. The first (and currently Greenkeeper International that they have looked rather than by revolution, and it is only when you only) manufacturer to use electronic engine con- (and continue to look) at oils on the golf course consider today's technology against the engine in trol in the turf industry is Huxleys with their Elec- (literally as well as metaphorically). Their conclu- your ten year old mower that you realise the tronic Drive Control (EDC) on the Huxtruk. While sion is that bio-degradability has limited value, as strides technology has made - nor is there reason not fully integrated into the engine this unit con- much of the damage from oil spillage comes from to believe that the next decade will not bring fur- trols engine and hydrostatic transmission accord- suffocating the leaf and root of the grass, thus a ther advances. (As a point of interest, my mower ing to the power and speed demands of the PTO wetter and water may be the best answer. They is 33 years old!) Correct approach to chemical OBITUARY Joe Gillett - usage: sensitive and sensible always proud areful chemical selection and weed control down herbicides. This eliminates the use of Cprogramme planning will do much to atrazine and simazine but maintains a high level of his 'calling' answer the growing public and legislative pres- of weed control from a single application at a sures related to herbicide use in sensitive areas, comparable cost to a triazine-only programme. It is with regret that I now inform according to Mark DeAth of weed control spe- "Finally, the most economic option is to use fellow BIGGA members of the cialists Nomix-Chipman. triazine mixtures. Although this will control death of Joe Gillett, the much Speaking on the options for environmentally- weeds over an entire season from just one appli- respected head greenkeeper of St friendly weed control at a specialist water qual- cation, it carries the greatest risk to local water Annes Old Links Golf Club from ity seminar in London, Mr DeAth advised local supplies. No official restrictions have yet been 1953 until 1981. authority and amenity managers to examine placed on the use of triazine mixtures, but it is Joe, as all who knew him will their options in detail. With the choice being widely accepted that curbs will soon apply." surely recollect, was a great char- between residual and non-residual herbicides, DeAth went on to outline factors which gov- acter and a skillful golfer who there are four primary strategies available to ern the choice of weed control strategy, includ- played with great enthusiasm, specifiers today, he said. ing the availability of labour, the need for especially remembered as a wor- "The ultimate in environmental acceptability operator safety and the application equipment thy winner of the Ransomes Tro- is to use non-residuals only. This will obviously to be used. phy at Wallasey in 1971. have a higher cost in that at least two applica- With herbicide application becoming as Joe came from a family of green- tions will be needed each season to give an important as chemical choice in achieving the keepers and began his illustrious acceptable level of weed control. However it best balance, he defined the key application career in 1931 at the Fairhaven also poses the least risk of water contamination. needs. Systems should maximise labour produc- Golf Club. He was always proud of "Another option is to alternate between resid- tivity, minimise spray drift and operator con- his calling and it gave him great uals and non-residuals, using a residual in a sin- tamination, maximise chemical use and pleasure to see his chosen profes- gle application one season followed by a minimise chemical disposal problems. sion grow from strength to non-residual which may require several applica- "Whatever strategy is chosen, there are a strength. tions the next," he continued. "This will reduce number of operating guidelines which should be We are all proud to have known the chemical burden on the environment while followed to minimise the risk of water contami- him and on behalf of all his many maintaining good weed control." nation," he concluded. "If there is any doubt, friends and members in BIGGA, I "The third possibility is to combine non- seek professional advice from suppliers and send our deepest sympathy to his atrazine and simazine residuals with knock- ensure that all advisers are BASIS qualified." wife, Barbara, and to his family. GEOFF WHITTLE Letters to the editor are always welcome. They should be signed and carry the writer's address and telephone number. The editor reserves the right to edit letters for length, clarity, libel and good taste. Please send letters to: The Editor, Greenkeeper International, 13 Firle Close, Seaford, East Sussex BN25 2HL

Manufacturers & Suppliers of J 'Jli'ii J "J^ilrj^j iifjjss Golf Course and Driving Range Equipment.

Aluminium posts and inset panels have made these colourful • To my knowledge, most head ate strategies are used and problems new tee plates an attractive addition to the wide range greenkeepers prepare annual bud- addressed. Our younger greenkeep- already available, and were well received by the visitors to the gets for their respective Clubs and, ers who feel their exam mark is Harrogate Exhibition once approved, work within below their ability at practical accepted limits. To do this effec- greenkeeping may well have a spe- tively one must have up-to-date cific learning difficulty and should prices and I am thus bound to ask get specialist testing as soon as pos- 'why is it so difficult to get these sible, as help should be available. from stockists?' The test for adults can cost around Writing in late April, I have £25 and there is often a waiting list received just one 1992 price list, to endure. However, if a specific and this came through the pages of learning difficulty is established, Greenkeeper International. When help can be obtained in many areas requesting lists the excuse offered is and examining boards can allow often that they are still 'at the print- extra time and/or make a greater ers' or 'one will be sent' (still wait- allowance for spelling/grammar ing!) and I am prompted to ask: errors in such cases. why are they not printed at the I think more discussion needs to same time as brochures, which are take place on the subject in order to always in abundant supply? remove the cloud of academic fail- PATTISSON & CO LTD Do stockists resist sending them ure from some of our able workers. for fear of price comparisons, or are How can the Association help? 342 Selbourne Road, Luton, Beds LU4 8NU they just saying to themselves What can a head greenkeeper do if Tel: 0582 597262. Fax: 0582 505241 'greenkeepers need the products he believes one of his staff has a anyway, so why bother?'. dyslexia problem? I would like to think this letter More information about resources will bring me some price lists, and is available from local Dyslexia Insti- would urge suppliers to send tutes - details in local phone books brochures only when they can be - or contact the Dyslexia Institute, backed up with prices. 133 Gresham Road, Staines, Mid- NIKKEN KNAPSACK PROBLEMS WITH SAM MORRISON Head Greenkeeper, dlesex TW18 2AJ. BRUSH CUTTER/MOWER ONE SINGLE Royal Aberdeen GC, Scotland RICHARD HEASLIP The Nikken fitted with its unique hover SOLUTION Hainault Forest GC, Essex • hood gives total flexibility and freedom • I am writing to you to raise the SUCCESSFUL of movement, giving a very neat finish subject of dyslexia. Over the last • I read with interest the articles to your bunker slopes and banks. MOWING OF STEEP BANKS & couple of years we have been in the (May G.I.) about water features on The operator can either mow from inside SLOPES THAT process of getting help for our son, golf courses. Certain points led me the bunker mowing uphill or mow from COVER MOST BUNKERS aged ten. Well, what has this to do to wonder how hazards such as the top reaching down into the bunker, • with greenkeeping people you may these are now influencing the both achieved with total ease. NO ENGINE ask? I shall try to explain. design of new courses in the British Flying sand is no problem with Nikken FAILURE DUE TO FLYING We came to realise that our son Isles. At Bank House they have 18 due to all sensitive components being SAND THAT was having learning difficulties, par- holes and a driving range in a lim- protected and out of harm's way on CAUSES MOST operator's back, which only weighs 12lbs. REGULAR ticularly in reading, writing, and ited site of just 120 acres. I presume Edges can be quickly and neatly trimmed MACHINE also in short term memory, that most of the 13 lakes must be BREAK DOWNS by removing the hood, attaching a small • although he had no trouble solving used as safety zones between fair- 4-tooth blade and MAINTAINING A practical problems. We took him to ways, as opposed to being created finally rotating the NEATLY the Dyslexia Institute for assess- for irrigation storage purposes or as handle through TRIMMED ADJOINING ment. The report confirmed our part of the strategy of the course 90 degrees. EDGE WHERE fears - in spite of an IQ of 120, spe- design. GRASS MEETS cific learning difficulties were iden- SAND . I cannot admit to having visited tified. the site, but the article gives the It was in conversation with the impression that the lakes are not in psychologist that she told us the naturally occurring depressions Institute had been consulted by an which would normally collect sur- agricultural college to advise of face water, especially when they are ways they might identify and help merely two feet deep. students who have problems. It had What most interests me is the rea- become apparent to the college that son for creating all these lakes. I agriculture tends to attract a higher presume it is the 'Florida influence', than average number of people who as a majority of the resort courses in have some form of learning problem Florida feature lakes highly, but and greenkeeping must be included why? Is it to make the courses more in this. difficult, or to improve the payabil- Send for details now to: DIXON & HOLLIDAY LTD With more and more emphasis ity of the course, or is the real rea- AD | Unit 22, Bassett Down Ind. Estate, Hay Lane, Swindon, Wiltshire SN4 9QP placed upon written examinations, son to provide further income for Tel. Sales: 0462 700547 • Works: 0793 845199 • Fax: 0793 845191 this, in some circumstances, could the developer in the resale of 'lake preclude individuals with natural balls'? I think so, especially as they flair and ability from advancing to are becoming an increasingly prof- their full potential unless appropri- itable product in most pro's shops 24 GREENKEEPER INTERNATIONAL June 1992 btte/v J rJu\s j^jyj: 2J wni^y npusi J "J'/uhnmj te ~fhb> Wuy J vvusi^

nowadays, often selling at a pre- two footer to take the Champi- attended a seminar organised by the I am pleased to say some were mium. One resort course I know on onship by a shot, which he confi- Kent Golf Union at Rochester and very keen for BIGGA to provide the outskirts of Norwich undertakes dently holed. Cobham GC, aimed at secretaries more information on training - per- several dredging operations Had Nicklaus' tee shot drifted into and captains. David was invited to haps encouragement for us to move throughout the year, a highly prof- a lake as opposed to the gorse, the talk on Greenkeeper Training, forward and do more. Finally, may I itable exercise. Championship would have been something that would have perhaps thank Brian Evans and the KGU for Surely this relates to the type of over before they had even reached been unheard of at such an event in a cracking event - I can't wait for the past. Other speakers included course being offered to the golfer - the final green. And what an anti- the next one, for it is clearly what is Keith Wright, secretary of the EGU, the developers of 'Pay-as-you-Play' climax that would have been. needed to enhance co-operation, on the role and objectives of the courses are keen to keep players My point in writing is an attempt communication and response to Union, Henry Wylie on the diversity moving as swiftly as possible. If a to explain that there will always be 'The Way Forward'. of golfing organisations and Derek golfer hits his ball into a lake, he a strong objection against the move PAUL COPSEY Head Greenkeeper, Pulford on the role of the County doesn't have a choice - the ball is towards golf as a water sport. It Barnhurst GC, Bexleyheath, Kent Unions. Much time was devoted to irretrievable, he has to forget it and may well appeal to golfers in the the speakers and delegates were play another. This means that five USA but I fail to see it gaining • The 'concerned greenkeepers' of involved in what turned out to be a minutes are not otherwise spent nationwide approval in Britain. fairly lively debate, mainly inspired West Sussex GC raise an important looking for a ball in deep rough or Firstly because of increasing prob- by David's address. It would be fair issue in your May edition. Our com- scrub and it keeps the golfers mov- lems relating to water shortages and to say that a minority of the dele- pany gave consideration to the ing. (Unless of course the golfer to restrictions set by the NRA, and gates embarked on a spree of problem of container wastage at the keeps playing each subsequent shot secondly because of the British 'greenkeeper bashing.' design stage of our green foliar into the lake!) golfers' reluctance in having to keep feed, Agrimaster, and we opted to This, however, has a detrimental buying new balls. The usual chestnuts came to the reduce the number of plastic con- effect on the standard of the golfer. Do not misunderstand me, fore: 'why do greenkeepers need tainers in circulation while offering How can a player ever become pro- though, because invariably, care- training? They then ask for better a high nutrient input at the same ficient at shots from different and fully located and well designed wages and conditions or are time. In the result one 25 litre con- varying lies if the only hazards on water features on a golf course can poached by other courses or organi- tainer of our concentrate proved the course are water, closely mown provide the perfect effect or setting. sations'. 'One of the newly con- sufficient for treating 18 golf greens, semi-rough or widely spaced staked Depending upon the character of structed greens on my course is thus greatly reducing wastage, stor- trees. Where is the rough and deep the site, a lake can be considered to appalling, it must be the green- age space and handling. rough? be useful for several functions: in keeper's fault (even though he From time to time we have recov- I feel that the element of surprise providing a positive outlet for didn't build it!) and what yard stick ered empty containers from some of is, effectively, being removed by drainage purposes; as part of the can we use to show ineptitude and our larger users but transportation incorporating an excessive amount strategy of the golf course design sack him!' Also 'why do greenkeep- and cleaning costs (including invest- of lakes into a golf course design. when a natural depression exists; or ers need managerial, accounting ments in equipment) make this a Maybe this is best explained by the for storage purposes for an irriga- and computer skills to cut grass' - discouraging proposition. Perhaps following analogy: two golfers tee tion system. Ideally, though, the lat- this from the odd secretary no doubt the plastics industry should itself off down a par 4 hole, one hits his ter will not be visible from the main fearing for his job. These comments take some responsibility for the ball straight, the other slices into the playing areas. were vigorously countered by Keith recycling of packaging materials. rough and scrub. The latter finds to It is up to the architects of these Wright, Brian Evans (KGU), David However, we acknowledge the legit- his surprise and great pleasure that new courses to convince the devel- and myself, and it is clear that the imate concerns of West Sussex GC his ball has come to rest in a clear- opers that there are alternative ways Golf Unions and perhaps the major- and remain willing to discuss the ing - allowing him a shot to the of creating a hazard. In many cases I ity of delegates actively support our matter with any interested parties. green, with a chance of halving or regard a lake as a 'cop-out' - where efforts for a strong force of well ROGER WEST even winning the hole. He has, in the architect lacks the imagination trained, educated and skilled green- Technical Director, Agriland Ltd. effect, been given a reprieve, but he to provide something more stimulat- keepers. Bournemouth, Dorset has still got to be able to play a ing. One of the keys to all this will be good recovery shot to take advan- I appreciate that the flow of communication, with this seminar • In July of this year my husband, tage of the situation. This makes for golfers through these new facilities demonstrating how in the past this Eric Palmer, will have served 50 exciting golf. A lake allows for one has to be maintained, but surely has been sadly lacking. I read the years as a greenkeeper - 41 of those result only - unplayable: reload! As there has to be some compromise journals of the EGU and the Secre- as a head greenkeeper. a hazard it is so final, whereas deep somewhere and by this I mean to taries Association and it is clear During his career he has worked rough will always provide for the provide some thick rough (or from reading them that we all suffer on just three courses, Sitwell Park in possibility of another result - that heather and gorse) in strategic loca- the same problems and difficulties Rotherham, Abbeydale in Sheffield, which is based on an element of tions on the course to give the golfer in carrying out our duties. These and his present Club - Hickleton luck or good fortune. something to really get his teeth seem to be the haphazard way some near Barnsley. Thinking back to some of the into. Clubs are organised, the lack of His dedication to his work cannot most exciting Open Championships, JONATHAN GAUNT BA (Hons) Dip LA. funds available and the lack of be surpassed and he is and always this element has always provided Golf Course Architect, Forest Gate, active management policy in some has been a credit to his profession. spectacle. Take, for instance, the London areas. He has seen so many changes over memorable final rounds of Watson As Keith Wright was at pains to the years and I feel justly proud of and Nicklaus at Turnberry in 1977. • For those sceptics amongst us point out, the EGU is the most him - indeed I have learned quite a The result was uncertain right down who sometimes question the stand- poorly funded Union in Europe, lot myself. to the final putt, and it almost ing and direction of our Association, although it caters for more golfers Eric has been nominated by his swung in Nicklaus' favour after he whilst suffering from a seemingly and offers a greater service - and as first assistant for the 'Greenkeeper made a remarkable recovery shot terminal dose of apathy, I would the gent with the dodgy greens also of the Year' award, but notwith- from a fortunate lie amongst the like to report on our (BIGGA Kent pointed out, he would like to have standing this I feel his 50 years of gorse and then proceeded to hole Section) strides forward and the an agronomist look at them, but his dedication deserve recognition. his putt for a three from the edge of recognition we are receiving. Club and committee couldn't find MRS MARGARET PALMER the green. Watson was left with a David Wood and myself recently one cheap enough! Balby, Doncaster, S Yorkshire (EEPER INTERNATIONAL June 1992 25 In just a week at one of our Management Courses, greenkeepers can pick up a fantastic wealth of knowledge, new ideas, techniques and tips from top industry experts. Don't miss outV

- DAVID GOLDING, BIGGA Education Officer Join the buzz! BOOKINGS are now being taken for Management Courses Autumn/Winter 1992: TIMETABLES the BIGGA Management Courses - fast becoming recognised as the | Year 1 16-20 November 1992 or 23-27 November 1992. Delegates per week: 20 best events of their kind through- 9am - 12 noon 1.30pm - 4.00pm 4.30pm - 7.00pm out the entire industry. Delegates arrive at BIGGA How to manage your time more Introduction to computers: Monday And thanks to the continued financial HQ for lunch at noon effectively: David lllingworth Fred Robinson support of Kubota UK and the Greenkeep- Computers: continued Grasses for the Golf Course: Communication workshop: Tuesday ers Training Committee, the in-house Fred Robinson Andy Newell STRI Nick Bisset, Askham Bryan College courses will once again be held at Aldwark Conservation on the Golf Problems associated with the maintenance of Greens, Tees, Wednesday Manor. In stylish surroundings delegates Course: Robert Taylor, STRI Bunkers, Surrounds and Fairways: STRI speakers will be able to gain valuable knowledge, Thursday Health & Safety Update: Jon Allbutt pick up new ideas and exchange views with their counterparts on other courses and Turf Grass Diseases: Delegates depart following lunch Friday STRIspeaker some of greenkeeping's top names. 1 Each day: Coffee break: 10.30am • Lunch: 12 noon For six weeks commencing in mid-Octo- Year 2 2-6 November 1992 or 9-13 November 1992. Delegates per week: 20 ber, Aldwark Manor - home of BIGGA HQ - will be buzzing with all that's happening to 9am - 12 noon 1.30pm - 4.00pm 4.30pm - 7.00pm make tomorrow's greenkeeper better Delegates arrive at BIGGA Assertiveness: Frank Newberry Report Writing: Frank New- Monday equipped than ever before. HQ for lunch at noon and Lesley Moore berry and Lesley Moore

Verbal Presentations: Frank Leadership: Frank Newberry Presentation: Frank New- This is the fourth year of the courses. Del- Tuesday Newberry and Lesley Moore and Lesley Moore berry and Lesley Moore egates who have attended in the past will be aware of the need, therefore, to book Wednesday Health & Safety at Work Act 1974: Jon Allbutt early. It's a rolling programme, so book Preparing a Health & Safety Statement of Safety Policy/Preparing a Risk Assessment straight away for your next year. If you Thursday (COSHH-FEPA): Jon Allbutt haven't already witnessed the superb facili- Fertilisers: What are the Delegates depart following lunch ties at Aldwark Manor, apply today for Year Friday Options? David Lawson, STRI Each day: Coffee break: 10.30am • Lunch: 12 noon One. Priority will be given on Years Two, Tea break: 4pm • Dinner is served at 7.30pm Three and Four to delegates who have attended in previous years. Year 3 26-30 October 1992. Delegates per week: 20 Attendance at each week's course quali- 9am - 12 noon 1.30pm - 4.00pm 4.30pm - 7.00pm Delegates arrive at BIGGA fies delegates for eight Credits to go Monday Job Interview Writing and Assessing CVs towards the Master Greenkeepers Certifi- HQ for lunch at noon cate. Tuesday Team Development Managing Performance: Paul Whiteley and Frank Newberry Remember, there are no examinations to Finance: What are the Wednesday Surveying: Robert Everett, STRI take at the end of the Management Course. Options? Keith Jaynes Your learning process comes from the qual- ity daytime sessions - and from informal Thursday Construction of Golf Greens: Brian D Pierson, British Association of Golf Course Contractors discussion in the bar afterwards. Preparing and Implementing a Course Delegates depart following lunch Friday Policy Document: David Stansfield, STRI Cost per week, to include accommodation Each day: Coffee break: 10.30am • Lunch: 12 noon Tea break: 4pm • Dinner is served at 7.30pm (twin bedded rooms), all meals and tuition fees is £280 +VAT = £329. Year 4 19-23 October 1992. Delegates per week: 20

To reserve your place, complete the 9am - 12 noon 1.30pm - 4.00pm 4.30pm - 7.00pm

pre-paid postcard in this Delegates arrive at BIGGA Marketing and Customer Monday Advanced Public Speaking magazine. If you have any HQ for lunch at noon Care

queries or you need more Negotiating Skills: Paul Tuesday Working Under Pressure: Paul Whiteley and Frank Newberry information, call Sue Gud- Whiteley and Frank Newberry geon on 03473 581/2. There are only limited Wednesday First Aid places available and Health & Safety at Work Update: Jon Allbutt interest is always high: Thursday

book straight away to Presenting a Course for Championships: Delegates depart following lunch Friday Bruce Jamieson, PGA European Tour avoid disappointment. Each day: Coffee break: 10.30am • Lunch: 12 noon Tea break: 4pm • Dinner is served at 7.30pm VERTIDRAIN HIRE CALL THE EXPERTS

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Watermation Ltd FOR THE BEST IN Tongham Road, Aldershot Hants GU12 4AA AD Tel: (0252) 336838 Fax: (0252) 336808 REF AUTOMATIC IRRIGATION 33 UJ-VJlD ili^ iiujjiijj/ij GREENKEEPER siir.riiiirjjjljjjj iii/i supplb/s Luyjjj "Jisjj BUS ROU HEPS TURHI9 N here is a perversity in big business that belies process they picked up irretrievable debts to the the investors the day after CVA (March 27th) and Tgood sense in that it feeds and flourishes on tune of £80,000. In particular, one single com- this is held in escrow until the Inland Revenue bad news, with the world of fine turf certainly no pany (owing the major part of that £80,000) can OK figures (which they know are right, but exception. One company rubs its hands with glee went into liquidation only to start up in business the Civil Service can be so slow...) when creditors as another reports falling dividends or losses, a again the following week! In a sentence, Chris will receive payment. contrariness difficult to understand when one opined that this practice was obscene and should Inevitably there has to be some sacrifices at all appreciates that almost any bad news in a given be illegal. Rightly and visibly angered, he further levels, and the company has taken a long, hard industry may have a knock-on negative effect. suggested that his anger is not just a personal look at itself and brought in economies to become Taking this a stage further, I still wonder how thing, for he knows of other companies where the altogether leaner and meaner. The company is many companies talked themselves into recession same thing has happened, rather a frustration for now run by Chris Bradshaw and Richard Pick- by taking too much notice of the doom and the injustice of a system which allows the miscre- ance, the finance director originally put in by gloom fed to them in the 'heavies'? ants to pull a 'fast one' and then re-form the same investors to act as their 'policeman' and now a What is even more surprising is that bad news company under a different name on the same shareholder. Chris pointed out that the recession moves faster than good, gathering rumour upon premises, using the same assets and employing had hit their business hard but late, coming very embellishment upon innuendo as the story travels the same people. Since company law dictates that quickly and effectively reducing prices for the ser- down the line. Thus it was with the snippet which this is not an illegal practice, there is a total vice they provide by about 20%, not by any circulated less than two months ago, purporting impotence to get back at them - or for that mat- reduction in material, labour or running costs, to tell of the demise/bankruptcy/closure/ insol- ter; to get even! but simply from gross profit, in order to remain vency/receivership of Lawn Tech, the Lawn on a competitive Roll company. This was a story that had my tele- . JHHM What they definitely could not afford to do is phone humming for several days, versions chang- fund any more bad debts. Specifically, their major ing with the tide. debtors came from outside the fine turf area - My nature is to sniff out the truth and I was from landscaping to be more precise - and from therefore heartened by the suggestion of Andy I n discussions within the fine turf industry they now Church, the ex-Tottenham Hotspur head Ji realise that this sector is one in which to tread groundsman turned sales manager for Lawn IfBfcn l mrjm^M very warily indeed, to be treated with caution or 1K 1 jjr Tech, who ventured the idea at Westurf that the indeed suspicion. true telling of their story would do much to clear They will now concentrate predominantly on muddied waters, whilst perhaps serving as a salu- golf, cricket, bowling and the like - and will look tary lesson to others on the perils that lufk for the with an eagle eye at total ability to pay. Chris unwary when conducting business in the 1990s, admits they were often so eager to get business together with the miserable inconsistencies and Jjm *' that they were reluctant to press overly hard for utterly unfair laws prevailing in company liquida- payment. 'It seems silly now', he says 'and we'll tion. not make the same mistakes again'. To begin at the beginning, readers should This debt left the company strapped for cash Other economies include trading down on understand that Lawn Tech are not turf produc- going into winter - an obvious leaner time in the costly company vehicles - Chris has changed ers, rather they are the inventors and manufac- turf industry - and their position was rapidly from a 4WD Nissan to a much more practical turers of Big Roll turf laying machinery and worsening. They were left with three alternatives. pick-up, which can be used by anyone and is a independent suppliers and layers of turf grown by Perhaps the simplest was insolvency but the con- veritable workhorse for carrying machinery - and others within the industry, notably Inturf. Their sequences for this were too miserable to contem- slimming down on staff by utilising well trained work is the laying of big rolls in a controlled fash- plate. The next was to struggle through, which self-employed landscapers to augment the perma- ion, undertaken for the contractor doing the job was just possible, though in doing so they would nent turf laying team of six. An air of complete on a given site. They began by developing their be putting others at risk if they failed and there- optimism prevails where just six weeks ago there new machinery in 1990, completing trials by the fore of hurting creditors even more by going was despondency. end of that year and founding the company down in a much bigger way. The final option was Summarising, their future looks decidedly proper in March 1991, funded by independent to enter a Corporate Voluntary Arrangement brighter and the feeling is that the recession is sources. At the beginning there was almost uni- (CVA), a system whereby a deal is made with easing. Perhaps, Chris suggests, this is in part due versal scepticism about whether the system creditors to pay what is derisively called a 'divi- to the country feeling more settled about the would work, even from Inturf, though they were dend' - a part payment of the debt, though sub- political future, quite irrespective of the colour of eager to be proved wrong and Inturfs managing stantially bigger than any resulting from government. On the business front their 'phones director, Derek Edwards, intimated that if it insolvency - with an assurance that since the have never been busier and deliveries of new proved successful the machine could change the creditors were effectively helping the ailing com- machines are taking off - two scheduled for Swe- face of the industry and his company certainly pany to stay in business, they would obviously be den and a veritable gaggle off to the United wanted to be where the action was! the first to benefit when the corner turned and States, where they have taken a storming market Taking up the story, Chris Bradshaw, the com- the company became self supporting. The CVA lead. pany's sales director, told of a successful first method can only be entertained when a company New, innovative companies often need more year when from a standing start they laid no less can demonstrate to the courts (putting aside its than a modicum of good luck to set them safely than 500,000 square yards, mainly fine turf for immediate financial problems) that it is a viable on their way; and certainly they can .do without greens and tees. Being totally frank, he also business with a future. being stripped bare by unprincipled crooks. Time admitted that in being very hungry for business With a few rather piddling exceptions, the will tell if the formula is right now, but there can the company failed to look carefully enough at creditors rightly opted for CVA and have been be no denying that the will to succeed at Lawn some of those they were working for, and in the most supportive. Added funds were provided by Tech is alive and well. 28 GREENKEEPER INTERNATIONAL June 1992 here is little doubt that dreaded recession is coming to an Westurf is here to stay, end. growing both in quality Quite apart from well supported and stature with each trade stands, demonstrations of new Tpassing year. As a meeting place for and established turf care machinery greenkeepers and green chairmen in were seen to be very busy indeed, the South West and South Wales kept buoyant by a constant stream the excellent site at Long Ashton of enquiries and helped by an exhi- Golf Club knows no equal, and as a bition of tempting equipment pre- shop window for greenkeeping sented in colourful fashion. products and services it is undoubt- As is to be expected, the impor- edly reaching the parts that other tance of education was highlighted shows cannot reach! by the representation of Canning- It is hard to put a finger on its ton, Sparsholt and Pencoed Colleges success, but if there is one word that from the South West and South sums up Westurf '92 to a tee that Wales region, along with the Welsh word must be enthusiasm. This was college of Mold and backed up for evident in the enthusiasm generat- the first time by the welcome ing from the hard working trio com- appearance of an STRI stand, prising Gordon Child, Ivor Scoones manned enthusiastically by Tim Col- and Hugh Parry, who worked like clough, the 'man on the spot' for Westurf Trojans to ensure that not a single those in the West. Report and pictures by DAVID WHITE thing was left to chance, and to a Both BIGGA and IOG stands were team of willing helpers who were as kept busy with a constant stream of well drilled as any army - parking members dropping by, and it is cars, directing traffic and making good to see the friendship between visitors feel very welcome indeed, the two Associations still thriving in despite a chilling wind which kept this region - indeed Ted Cavell of everyone on their toes. the IOG was most helpful in adding The trade were equally enthusias- support to the worthy efforts of Gor- tic in voting the event well worth- don Child - many thanks, Ted. while and this was borne out by With over one thousand visitors increased participation, with 66 through the gates by mid-day, Gor- exhibitors taking up 92 stands and don can feel justly proud of Westurf including many first time attendees. and, glutton for punishment that he Informed gossip around the stands is, he is looking forward to repeat- was of an upturn in business and ing the whole exercise on April 28th

traders general optimism indicated 1993, even though organising this BIGGA winners selected to play in the Barenbrug International Golf Trophy that perhaps the worst of the event is no lightweight task. received their tickets from Barenbrug's Michel Mulder

Richard Horner, Better Methods Europe Old comrades meet up again The putting contest on the ICI stand Andy Hardy of Gem Products

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L are inclusive of gostagejacking and VAT. Photocopy this form, or usea £lain_sheetof£ager,Jf you doiVt want to cut up^our magazine, j 30 GREENKEEPER INTERNATIONAL June 1992 AROUND THE GREEN

Keeping in touch with news and comment from the regions

Will section reporters please note: Final copy date credits - all useful additions to your CV. Thanks are also due to Chris James of Erring- for inclusion ofAround The Green' material in the There are a few moves around the section: tons, and to Toro for providing lunch. August issue is July 1st. Gary Dyson takes over at Darrington and Adrian Our Spring Tournament at Wollaton Park on Holroyd moves from Lightcliffe to Ripon. I hear April 28th attracted 54 entrants, and a competi- NORTHERN they are both about to join us and I look for- tive day of golf produced some excellent scor- Everyone should now be flat-out cutting, slit- ward to seeing them soon. I am also losing my ing. Winners in each section were: Greenkeepers ting, dressing etc., and I guess you must all be own right-hand man, Robert Gee, who is mov- - (handicap 0-9) 1st Russell Allen, 2nd Phil Ref- too busy to play in our golf events, for they are ing just up the road to Lightcliffe as head man. I fin, 3rd Glen Miller, (hep. 10-18) 1st Phil Jen- not filling up very well. I'll give you a further suppose he will be forever on my doorstep bor- nings, 2nd Jamie Bedford, 3rd Clinton Hare, reminder of these: Invitation Day at Shipley rowing tackle, but best of luck anyway to (hep. 9-24) 1st Adey Porter, 2nd Ian Dunmore, Northcliffe GC on Wednesday, 19th August Robert, Gary and Adrian. More very good news 3rd Mark Bindley. The trade/associate winner (members must be accompanied by one of their is that Bradford's Ralph Smith has returned to was Mike Franklin. Many thanks to all the staff Club officials). Autumn meeting at Scarborough work after long illness. Hope to see you soon at Wollaton, and to those section members who Southcliffe GC on Wednesday, 30th September. Ralph, back amongst your friends in the section. helped to organise an enjoyable day. We also need names of those wanting to play A potential disaster was averted when the We are pleased to welcome the following new for the section in the Roses Match. This is fully location for our spring 'do' was cancelled just 12 members: Paul Sumpter, Kibworth G.C. Barry sponsored so all you have to do is get there (and hours before tee-time. Fortunately, Ganton GC Gostinshie, Western Park G.C. Jeffrey Cassidy, win!). The venue for this is Stockport G.C. on kindly agreed to let us play at short notice and Western Park G.C. Steven Linthwaite, Western Friday, 28th August. Names to me by 'phoning we thank them for accommodating us so very Park G.C. Matthew Buckley, Oakmere Park G.C. 0274/590463 please. well. The qualifiers were: Div. 1 - E Walsh, R and Andrew Richardson, who is a student mem- A recent event was our annual dinner dance Gee, M Hannan and M Lealman. Div. 2 - E ber at the Lancashire College. where 26 people enjoyed a fine evening with Paley, L Nelson, C Garnett and R Johnson. Div. Finally, it gives me the greatest pleasure to good food and wine and excellent company. Of 3 - L Kirkbright, A Gamble, D Cockburn and M offer congratulations to Graham Arnold on his those attending, 12 were colleagues from the Bryant... all of which means that last year's completion this year of 25 years at Erewash Val- trade; so only 14 greenkeepers and wives out of 'champ', Telford Jarvis, is out! ley. I understand (from the king of the second almost 600 greenkeepers and wives on my list Cleckheaton GC have appointed Andrew helping, Mr Barsby) that this is also Graham's turned up. Come on you guys out there, this is Fowler as deputy course manager to replace silver wedding anniversary, so congratu- * 32 your section, please support it. A lot of work Robert Gee and 'yours goes into planning events for your benefit and if truly' is resigning as sec- BIGGA didn't exist we would all be back to tion secretary to take on RECRUITMENT See also Pages 7, 39-41 square one with poor wages, poor opportunities, the post of regional poor education and poor conditions. We have administrator. My thanks come a long way, but support is needed to keep to everyone who helped Hirst Priory Golf Club the momentum going. me during my time in (South Humberside) I am trying to organise a first aid training office. course for the autumn. I'm sure it must be useful BOB LUPTON invite applications for the position of (not to mention possibly life-saving) to have at least one trained first-aider on every Club staff. EAST MIDLANDS The course can be undertaken in a few ways, Firstly, a belated note of HEAD GREENKEEPER either at your own Club or at one venue. Also, a thanks to Peter Jones and Applicants must be experienced in course management in order to number of options are open with half day, one Phil Helms at Collingtree supervise the construction of greens on this new course. day, two day and four day courses all available. Park for entertaining the Please give this matter some thought and ring section back in March. This is a good opportunity for the right candidate to become me if you are interested. I need to know num- I'm sure this well involved in the early stages of construction. bers as soon as possible to enable me to organ- attended visit was an eye- Applications in writing to: ise what you want. Certificates will be issued on opener to many, seeing Mr P Fitzgerald completion of the course whilst those aiming for such good surfaces so Saxon Willows, Carrhouse Road, Belton, Nr Doncaster DN9 IPG Master Greenkeeper certification will gain 3 early in the season. GTC APPROVED COLLEGES Garesfield Golf Club Vacancy: HEAD GREENKEEPER

Applications invited for a Head Greenkeeper of proven ability to take responsibility for all course management and future development.

Quality Day and Block Courses for Greenkeepers to give you Negotiable competitive salary offered to applicant with necessary technical an—d managemen Your career t dependexpertises o.n it experience and commitment.

— Write or 'phone for our Course Directory Apply in writing with CV to: Hon. Secretary The Registrar, Warwickshire College for Agriculture Garesfield Golf Club, Chopwell, Tyne & Wear NE17 7AP • Horticulture • Equine Studies, Moreton Morrell, Warwick CV35 9BL. Tel: 0926 651367 Closing date: Sunday June 21st 1992 31 lations are doubly in order. In recogni- may be put off writing for fear of retribution in a tion of his services, Graham is shortly due to fly AROUND THE later issue. I am sure it does not look good to out to Disneyworld for a holiday sponsored by non-members who read these letters. the Club. Best wishes Graham, and IAIN MACLEOD don't worry about the flight, for after a few pints of Ilkeston anaesthetic, GREEN SURREY I'm sure all will be well! Foxhills GC were our hosts for the recent Spring TONY HOWARTH Meeting, which consisted of 36 holes over the Longcross and Chertsey courses. Despite the MIDLANDS excellent condition of both courses, coupled On April 7th the Midlands Section played their with fine weather, the scores were unusually Spring Tournament at Stourbridge GC. The day high: Overall winner - D Barnes 143. 2nd - J started out with rain and though this continued Hunter 152. 3rd - N Whitaker 153. Scratch - R for most of the day it did not prevent us from your membership card. This competition is Christie 153. Trade - B Wilmott 164. Best a.m.- enjoying a well prepared course, for which we included with our spring and autumn tourna- N Shade 72. Best p.m. - M Yolston 77. thank the Stourbridge green staff. Congratula- ments for the aggregate trophy sponsored by Thanks were extended to Foxhills for their tions to Steve Wood, who won the nett prize Aitchens. All enquiries for this tournament to excellent hospitality and courtesy of the facili- with an excellent come-back in the afternoon; Paul Pearse, 1 Swan Close, Poynton, Stockport ties, along with praise for Nevill Shade and his and to Paul Loffman, who was the low gross SK12 1HX. Tel: 0625 859258. staff for presenting the courses so well. In addi- prize winner. Finally, if you have any news, tion, our thanks to those trade members who Our thanks to Stourbridge GC for the courtesy views or problems - please call me kindly contributed to the prize table. Iseki quali- extended to us, along with our best wishes to on 051 7245412. fiers will be notified shortly and are reminded them for a successful period of celebration in BERT CROSS that the regional finals will take place on July this their centenary year. I would like to also 6th at Chelmsford GC. If you cannot play on this thank the many people - both individuals and NORTH SCOTLAND day please notify Derek Walder in order that companies - who again gave support and help The section committee held a meeting at Nairn reserve players may participate. in running this tournament. GC recently, with a full turn-out and a lively By now the Huxley Bowl should be well under Both our knock-out competitions were drawn evening ensuing, thrashing out section business. way and I would request that winners convey at the Spring Tournament, revealing some inter- Our thanks to Nairn GC for the use of their the results to Derek promptly, in order that the esting matches. These are scheduled to be plush conference room. competition be kept moving. played by certain specified dates and Hopefully, by the time you read this report we ROGER TYDEMAN competitors are requested to keep to will all have had some warmth to go with the them. Should you have any queries, recent rains - this to encourage life into the CLEVELAND my 'phone number is 0789 762912. grass up here in the North. Late springs follow- Are you happy as a greenkeeper? Are you a DEAN CLEAVER ing on from relatively mild winters are becom- member of BIGGA? Are you a qualified green- ing the norm; and at my Club - Tain GC - the keeper? Phase III is a supervisory block release NORTH WEST course is getting much busier in the winter with course at college and even if you think Phase IV Caldy GC on the Wirral peninsular played host week-end golf choc-a-bloc. The result is that is too advanced, you should never stop learning this year to the annual tournament between the greens get no rest before the new season arrives. or training. The colleges want students, so talk North West Section and the North Wales Sec- Thus far we are coping, but maybe an enforced to a course tutor. Above all don't under estimate tion. Rick Fletcher and his staff had manicured period of rest will need to be considered in the yourself, for college staff are very, very helpful. this lovely and very testing course to perfection, future. We are back to full staff with the return Try a greenkeeper training course and surprise and although the weather was not at its best the (from a 4 month working holiday in Switzer- yourself with success. course certainly was. Many thanks to Rick and land) of John Urquhart, now an accomplished Golf courses need trained people to help them his staff and to Caldy GC for allowing us the skier and sporting a bronzed look. train others. Training never stops and the plea- courtesy of their magnificent course. Next month will see The Open Championship sure is both in individual success and in helping The result of the match was 5-3 to North at Muirfield, when I am looking forward to once others to obtain success. Go forward now and Wales, and our congratulations to Terry Adam- again being part of the Greenkeeper Support contact your college with a view to improving son and his team. Enjoy your win, boys - it will Team. I hope to see a few more North members your career - book in for September. Above all; be your last! I would like to thank everyone who involved this year, for it really is a great week talk to a BIGGA section secretary, your Club sec- played (even though some were dragged in at for renewing old friendships and forming new retary, your head greenkeeper or someone who short notice), for making the day a very pleasant ones. you know will guide you and help you to one. During the run-up to the match and due to It has not taken Mike Wilson of Kingussie long improve your professional status. Best of all be unforeseen circumstances, our sponsor reluc- to regain his place in the North District Golf smart, clean, polite and create a good image. tantly had to pull out, leaving us with the prob- Team since his return from Wales. He joins Polished shoes and the wearing of a BIGGA tie is lem of who would pay for the meals. There was other regulars, Steve Macitosh (Muir of Ord) a good way to start. Play golf and see if the no need to worry, for a knight on a white horse and George Paterson (Fortrose), to give us course is as good as you prepared it. Finally, (in the form of Andy Hardie from Gem Profes- greenkeepers a good representation in the team. remember that Clubs pay college expenses and sional) arrived to pick up the tab. Many thanks In fact 'yours truly' was invited to play last in Phase II you are trained for spraying qualifi- to both Andy and Gem for saving the day. September, but only when someone else failed cations as well. Howard McAddey, a former treasurer on the to appear and the game was being played at BRUCE BURNELL NW committee and regional administrator for Tain. I hesitated to accept and my chance was the Northern Region, has had to relinquish his lost, with one of the selectors standing in by MID ANGLIA administrative post due to pressure of work. I using my clubs while his wife brought his own On March 10th our members visited Lloyds of would like to take this opportunity to thank sticks over. Letchworth for a factory tour and demonstration Howard for the sterling work he has put in dur- Congratulations to Willie Milton, long time of their machinery range. This proved to be an ing his term of office, and hope that once the North member and ex treasurer, on his election informative, enjoyable and hospitable day, for pressure is off a little he might join us on the to life membership of BIGGA. This is a just which many thanks to all at Lloyds. NW committee once again. reward for all the time he gave on our behalf. April 21st saw the first of our golf tourna- The ISEKI regional final has been changed The July report will feature the section outing at ments, a 27 hole Iseki qualifier played at Veru- from Cleckheaton GC to Bury GC and the date is Montrose and the first four winners of the 200 lum GC, St Albans. Although the date chosen now Monday June 29th. All qualifiers will have Club. was difficult (the first day following the Easter been informed. The Summer Meeting is at Finally, on a personal note, I would like to break) some 28 members entered with the fol- Worsley GC on Thursday July 9th with the tee express disappointment at the content of some lowing results: Handicap 0-9 R McKeown, G reserved from 1.30pm till 3pm. Soup and sand- letters in recent issues of our magazine. It seems Boulton, G Bruce, C Brook and A Freeman wiches will be served at 12.30pm with dinner to me that 'slagging off a previous contributor is (reserve). Handicap 10-18 A Grew, E O'Hanlon, and prize presentation in the evening. Proper no way forward for a professional association. N Whitaker, G Smith and J Chapman (reserve). dress is essential and you must also bring along Constructive criticism is one thing, but members Handicap 19-28 M Ellis, J Cassidy, R Saunders, D Piggott and I Jones (reserve). Those who Glen GC for the start of our annual Spring Tour- qualified will compete next at Brockton Hall GC, AROUND THE nament. This was the first time that many of our Stafford, on July 16th. The event was won by members had played this excellent course for Alan Grew with a score of 107-12, Neil Whitaker until this year it had been a municipal. Our was second with 108-14 and third was G Boul- thanks as usual go to the captain and committee ton with 108-8. The longest drive was Geoff GREEN for the courtesy; the catering staff for the excel- Smith with 260 yards and nearest the pin on 17 lent meals and to head greenkeeper George was G Boulton. Paterson and his staff for the condition of the Many thanks to Geoff and his team for prepar- course. Fifty six members, guests and trade ing the course and to the officers and staff at attended and the lucky winners were: Best nett Verulum GC, particularly the vice-captain, who G Ferguson (Royal Musselburgh). 1st class C bought wine for us to enjoy along with an excel- Graham (Goswick). 2nd class S Melville (Lothi- lent meal. Cheers! Let us hope this occurs at all anburn). 3rd class G Hobbs (Torphin Hill). Vet- future events! Many thanks also to Colin from the training front will be Extended Emergency eran W Blair (Kingsknowe). Guest J Lockerbie Rigby Taylor for his hard work and organisation, First Aid and Safe Use of Chainsaws. All training (Baberton). Trade K Hunter (Frews). Knockout not forgetting their sponsorship of the tourna- days carry certificates and qualify for M.G.C. T Murray and S Crawford (Ratho Park). ment. credits, further details on application to the sec- Iseki Qualifiers. Two of our members have moved Clubs retary (home 'phone number 0285 651908). 1st class: C Graham, A Holmes, P Bowden and S recently: Phil Quarmby has left Beadlow Manor The next event is the Summer Tournament at Crawford. 2nd Class: G Ferguson, S Melville, J to become head greenkeeper at Mentmore GC, the Cotswold Hills GC., Cheltenham, venue for Neilson and R Bullock. 3rd Class: G Hobbs, A while Mark Ellis, who was previously at Woburn this years' Gloucestershire County Gordon, W Armstrong and A Forrest. Reserves: G&CC has joined Phil as his deputy. I'm sure all Championships. I'll look forward to 1st Class: G White. 2nd Class: I Bell and R members wish them every success in their new seeing you all then - well turned out, Frame. 3rd Class: P Black. These players will be positions. naturally. notified of future arrangements in due course. Finally, a reminder about the Summer Tour- PAUL WORSTER Future Events: nament at Bedfordshire GC (Biddenham) on Tuesday, June 23rd. Scottish at Kingsknowe GC. July 7th. All entries must be with Chris Brook by SHEFFIELD Thursday, August 6th. Willie Woods at June 15th by entry form only. His telephone The winter lectures have now come to a close. Swanston GC. number printed in April was incorrect and you The section thank Rotherham GC for the sup- Tuesday, Sept 22nd. Autumn Tournament at should note the correct number: 0462 442488. port they have given so willingly in allowing us Newbattle GC. PAUL LOCKETT to use their facilities, also to David Milbourne, Thursday, Oct 1st. Half day tournament at Gif- Rotherham course manager, for making sure ford GC. SOUTH WEST everything was in order prior to us all arriving. Wednesday November 25th AGM at Kingsknowe "Shut the gate and keep out the draught" went The April lecture was on the Rules of Golf, GC. the cry, only to fall on deaf ears. The early warm and for those members that did not attend, you Friday December 4th. Annual Dinner Dance. spring weather took a nose-dive at Swindon GC missed a real treat. Mr Peter Greenhough, a Section News: as a gale lashed the course for our section Iseki member of the R&A Rules Committee gave us a Things have been very quiet over the past few Qualifier. All competitors deserved a prize just superb lecture. Thanks must go to Derek Neve, months, with no movements on the job front. for finishing, never mind the scores, for it was the head greenkeeper at Brough GC, for inno- Membership has increased and we are hopeful not a round I would care to repeat too often. vating not only a worthwhile talk but also an that the trend will continue. Six committee Still it all goes to prove one thing: if you're enjoyable one. When Mr Greenhough had fin- members attended the Association AGM at York going to buy an Iseki tractor, make sure it has a ished he said he would be pleased to answer any on April 6th and our own committee meetings cab! The course was extremely well presented, questions from the floor. The response was very are being held on a very regular basis, thus which is more than I could say for some mem- encouraging, in fact you had to be quick to get ensuring the smooth running of the section. The bers of our party. Please, please remember when your say. Oh, by the way, no cross out balls to committee for this year is: Chairman, CJ Yea- you are out with the Association, you are repre- be used in BIGGA tournaments, they are not on man, Vice Chairman, P Ormiston, Secretary, W senting the profession of greenkeeping and the the list of approved golf balls. Penalty-disqualifi- Blair, Handicap Convenors, G Wood and S right image is all important. Our grateful thanks cation. Greenwood, Social Convenor, S Dixon, General to Swindon GC for their hospitality, and apolo- EDUCATION: David Golding will help us Committee, J Neilson, T Murray and R Hogarth. gies for the one or two problems encountered arrange a day in our area to enable members to WILLIE BLAIR during the day Thanks also to Iseki, the main be trained in basic first aid. In view of FEPA and sponsors, also to ICI & Avoncrop for prizes. The COSHH I feel we must take advantage of this DEVON & CORNWALL results were : 1st A. Johnson (Saltford) 96 -28= offer. If any member is interested, please let me Our guest day meeting was held at Launceston 68. 2nd D. Summerell (Castle Coombe) 88- know so that I can make the appropriate GC on April 8th, with April showers turning into 16=72. 3rd L. Johnson (Saltford) 96-22=74. arrangements. Tel: 0298 81337. a monsoon just days before our meeting and The team for the South West Regional Finals COMPETITIONS: Please note all entry fees making arrangements very difficult. My thanks on 17th June is: Division 1 - P Godwin (5), J must be paid for by the closing date on the entry to Clive Ralph for his sterling support and I hope Kane (6), K Millar (4), C Fudge (3), and P form. he hasn't yet pulled out all his hair yet! Our Thorne (4). Division 2 - M Swales (10), M Gray RAFFLE PRIZES: At each lecture or golf event thanks also to George Bailey and his merry men (11), S Montacute (15) S Earl (12) and J a raffle will be held and any member wishing to for all their hard work in making the course Scoones (18). Division 3- A Johnson (28) L donate a prize is asked to bring it along. Contri- playable. Johnson (22) M Powell (26) J Leigh (23) and P butions will be much appreciated. On the day itself, the sun shone for the first Cox (24). Reserves are L Millar (4) J Farley (16) TO THE GREEN CHAIRMAN: The goals of our time in weeks and all 22 pairs enjoyed playing and C Sealey (28). (BIGGA) members for the golf Club are the on the well presented course whilst competing All good wishes to David Summerell as he same as those of your members... a high quality for the Jacobsen Salver. Prizes were kindly takes up a new post in Spain, after bringing the course of which we can all be proud. With a lit- donated by C R Willcocks and West Horticul- prestigious Castle Coombe course almost up to tle help from Mother Nature and patience and ture, both being dealers for Jacobsen turfcare its opening. Congratulations to Pat Smith, co-operation from the membership, we will equipment in Grasscare Manager, T H White, on the birth of obtain both our short and long term goals. Devon & Cornwall. Following an excellent lunch his daughter, Hannah, also to all twelve of our TO THE GREENKEEPER: Hold your head up Mr R Chitty of Willcocks and Mr P Smith of first FEPA trainees on successfully completing high; and you will be calm, confident and West Horticulture presented prizes to the lucky the foundation module training day and the sub- assertive, whatever happens to you. Remember, winners: 1st A Cann and I Downing (Bude sequent exam. Grateful thanks to Bristol & what you think you will be you will become. Guests) 67 points and the Jacobsen Salver. 2nd Clifton GC for generously allowing us the use of GOOD LUCK. B Ridgeway and K Broad (Greenkeeper & Guest) their clubhouse and machinery shed for this pur- JANE RYAN 66 points. 3rd R Parr and B Heggie (Green- pose. keeper and Secretary) 65 points. I look forward to receiving more applications EAST SCOTLAND Our thanks to Launceston GC and all their for similar courses during the autumn. Also on A cold windy day greeted our arrival at The staff for making our day so successful, * 34 33 also to John Mitchell, who spent most you are on the receiving end, with the best news of the afternoon checking cards. As this meet- AROUND THE always coming from the bar when talk gets to ing concluded our '91-'92 winter programme I the nitty-gritty regarding our beloved green would like to thank all our many trade friends committees. The latest is the story of a head who, as usual, have supported our meetings so greenkeeper who found his pay frozen until the generously. Long may they continue. I would GREEN rest of head greenkeepers in East Anglia catch also like to thank all members who attended our up with him. A bit like saying to the manager at meetings over the winter, for without their sup- Sainsbury's you've got to wait until the manager port the section would be the poorer. of The Happy Shopper catches up!' - Who says To those who were unable to attend, communism is dead? What will they think of we look forward to seeing you next next... answers on a postcard please. winter, when you may be sure a On a sad note I must report the death (just warm welcome awaits you all. before Easter) of Russell Allison, groundsman at RICHARD WHYMAN Will all members remember the handicap cer- Norwich City FC for 40 years. On behalf of all tificates and membership cards MUST be shown members of the East Anglian section I extend NORTH WALES at ALL competitions. A £5 deposit must be sent our deepest sympathy to his family, especially to Our first competition of the season was held at for each competition, which will be set aside his son (also Russell) who is himself a grounds- Caldy GC on the Wirral; where the North wales toward the entry fee and evening meal. Please man (third generation) at NCFC, following both section played the North West in some very spir- take note: anyone not sending a deposit will not father and grandfather. Russell's stories were ited matches. The result doesn't really matter, be allowed to play in the competition. legendary, he was a fine man and will be sorely but we won! Thanks to Caldy GC and its com- PHIL SWAIN missed. mittee and members for allowing us to play our MICK LATHROPE match, and our congratulations to Rick Fletcher SUSSEX and his staff for a course which was in excellent The first section competition of '92 was held at CENTRAL SCOTLAND condition. We hope to see Bert Cross and some Seaford (Blatchington) GC - what a treat! The The section's Spring Tournament was held of the North West lads on our patch again next course was in superb condition, the weather just recently by courtesy of Crail Golfing Society at year, and in the interim we wish you all a good perfect and the views over the English Channel Balcomie Links, Fife, and despite the atrocious season. and the South Downs were brilliant. Just a weather some 46 members and guests had an I would also like to wish Alan Sharp and his shame there were not more members to enjoy enjoyable day. Some were merrier than others staff all the best on the opening of Chirk G&CC the day. and perhaps this was due to 'liquid insulation' in April. Finally, I would like to hear from any The day started with an 18 hole medal round against the cold and rain - which helped. Prior members of the South Wales section who might sponsored by John Shaw Machinery, with the to our tournament, the east coast of Fife had be interested in a match against our section. following nett results: 1st Stuart Shelford (Ifield been experiencing its driest spring for twenty Please write to me with your views to 33 Mill G&CC) 67. 2nd Chris Reed (Crowborough GC) five years: then the following day the weather Lodge, Llandegfan,* Menai Bridge, Anglesey. 69. 3rd Peter Ray (Haywards Heath GC) 71. The returned to normal - perhaps someone up there LL59 5YB or 'phone me on 0248 713490. Once trade/guest prize was won by Geoff Yelland of was trying to tell us we should have been work- again, I would welcome calls from any members Rigby Taylor with 72. ing instead of enjoying ourselves. who have any views or queries, or indeed any- Following lunch our golf continued with a The prize winners were: Scratch and M.&M. thing they wish to say within these section Stableford round sponsored by Rigby Taylor, the Trophy - R. Wilson, Kinross, 72. Nett and Souter reports. results being: 1st Duncan Haste (East Brighton Trophy - D. Peddie, Alloa, 67. First class: 1st. D S PROCTOR GC) 40 points. 2nd George Barr (Ham Manor (handicap) C. McKay, Crail, 69. 2nd. N. GC) 33. 3rd Andy Paynter (East Brighton GC) Ballingall, Lundin G.C, 72. Second class: 1st. A. SOUTH WALES 31. The trade/guest prize was won by Gary Robertson, Grangemouth, 70. 2nd. N. Rawlin- St Mellons GC in Cardiff was the venue for our Ogilvie of Parkers with 34. Iseki qualifiers will son,St. Andrews, 74. Trade: I. Thomson, Provan Spring Meeting, held on April 9th on a warm be notified by post in due course. Chem. 73. Guests. A. Howson, Grangemouth, sunny day. Such was the weather that some of Many thanks to Seaford GC for the courtesy of 70. Stewart's Quaich, A. Purdie & C. McKay, us might have cast our thoughts to all the work their course; and to Bob and his staff for their Crail 143. we could have been doing on our courses. That splendid efforts. Our sincere thanks go to the secretary and stated, the competition was not one of the best The next section event will be on June 10th, captain of Crail Golfing Society for presenting attended, which may well have been due to the an 18 hole afternoon match at Copthorne GC. the prizes in the evening, to the club steward weather plus those who cry-off with illness at MARK WILTON and staff for looking after us so well in the club- the last moment. The event was our Iseki quali- house, and to Allan Purdie and his green staff fier, with the following results: Winner (Cardiff EAST ANGLIA for having the course in such excellent condition Cup) Adrian Panks -71 (won on countback). Our 1992 season got off to a good start when 41 so early in the season. 2nd Malcolm Davies 71. 3rd Leslie Hallett 74 players dusted off their clubs for the medal Best wishes for a speedy recovery go to John (on countback) 4th Tony King 74. 5th Hugh round at Bungay, which is a pretty little place (if Henderson, formerly of Dunfermline GC, who Parry 75. Low Gross- Steven Price 79. Prizes you stay straight) kept in good shape by Mick was taken ill recently. Hope to see you back at were donated by Gem Professional, Steve Elms, Mean and his men. section events very soon, John. Avoncrop Amenity Products and ICI, for which We had three handicap sections (good, not so Congratulations and every success in their new grateful thanks. good and keep practicing) for the Iseki qualifier, appointments go to Graeme Downie and Ronnie On behalf of the members I would like to with the nett results being: (0-9) 1st Dave Cunningham, who have taken over at Braehead thank the committee and members of St Mel- Wilkinson 68. 2nd Alan Carter 69. 3rd Peter and Dunfermline respectively. lons GC for allowing us the courtesy of their Howard, 4th Mike Fance. (10-18) 1st Dave The annual prize draw dinner has been course and facilities throughout the day, also to (HG) Wells 2nd Mike Verlay. 3rd Steve Norris. arranged for December 4th at Sterling GC, with the steward for attending to our liquid refresh- 4th Sam Sylvester. (19-28) 1st Tom Smith. 2nd Ernie Walker, former secretary of the SFA, as ments and Mr Gooch for providing the fine food Toddy Huddlestone. 3rd Mike Stead. 4th Ernie our guest speaker. More details will follow in which was enjoyed by us all. Hart. A good day out was had by all and our the coming months. Finally I would like to congratulate head thanks to Bungay and Waveney Valley GC for a JOHN CRAWFORD greenkeeper Steven Price and his staff for the lovely day. good condition of the course so early in the sea- 'Uncle' Sam would once again like all replies BUCKS, BERKS & OXON son. regarding golf tournaments back on time please, Now that summer has arrived I expect you will ISEKI qualifiers: (0-9) S Price (4) M Jones (7) H and NO 'phone calls at 10.30pm the night all be too busy to read this column, so this is my Morgan (8) A Jenkins (9) M Davies (10) reserve before - I am NOT joking! Alan Carter is now golden opportunity to put in anything I choose! P Swain (11). (10-18) A Panks (12) T King (12) the man to moan at when your handicap is Seriously, the busy time is probably just as well, H Parry (15) P Lacey (16) N Owens (180 mutilated, for he has taken over the job from for there is not too much happening at the reserve D Jones (12). (19-28) T Garland (19) S Steve Freestone (with Steve's blessing, I might moment - which leads me nicely into my first Lindsay (19) B Price (20) R Kitcher (20) L Hal- add). duty - an apology for the absence of a BB&O lett(24) reserve P Long (24). Something to smile about or cringe over if report in May. This was simply a mat- »*• 42 The most cost-effective way of reaching readers of Greenkeeper International. Simply ring 03473 581/2 and ask about an alphabetical category listing: the cost starts from the equivalent of under £23 per month.

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IRRIGATION TECHNICAL SERVICES All leading manufacturers equipment M GERMINATION SHEETS maintained and serviced • Fault finding • FROST PROTECTION SHEETS Construction on all cable systems • Cable detection • -IRRISERVE- • TARGET NETS Irrigation system troubleshooting • Spring IRRIGATION ENGINEERS Drainage • PERIMETER NETTING start up - Winter shut down • Contractor Installation, Sales and Service AVAILABLE FROM training. Stone Picking ALL GOOD DISTRIBUTORS North West of England, covering Contact Stuart Mills, Lancashire and Cumbria Verti-Draining TILDENET LIMITED Tel/Fax 0202 874216 Contact: Paul Rimmer Longbrook House, Ashton Vale Road, 43 Pinehurst Road, Tel: (0772) 601534 Bristol BS3 2HA f West Moors, Dorset Tel: (0272) 669684 Irriserve, Unit 9, Twin Lakes Industrial Park, Tel: (02406) 6776 •ROVED TOflO SERVICE CENTRE Fax: (0272) 231251 Bretherton Road, nr Preston PR5 7RF for all aspects of , GOLF COURSE IRRIGATION CONSTRUCTION *E2frT • Installation • Service MATERIALS. • Extensions and Improvements Good stocks of top quality 20mm Washed Breeze ARTIFICIAL GRASS • Pumping Systems Ash, well tested and approved for footpaths and small roadways. The leading supplier of TEE MATS Oundle Road EXCELLENT drainage and clean to walk on, ideal & PUTTING SURFACES Lutton for growing new turf. Quick rooting. Samples on MONEYSTONE request. Screened path gravel available, golden from Peterborough Britain's brown in colour. Alan Bracey & Son PE8 5ND (All other materials supplied). most popular, Sport Surfaces Tel: Oundle (0832) 272450 24 hours Order No. Tel: 0860 513846 80 Station Road, Broxbourne, Unit No. 3, Fittells Yard, Spurlands End Road, top quality Herts. Tel: (0992) 460807 Gt. Kingshill, High Wycombe, Bucks HP15 6JA. FLANDERBLADE LTD Tel: 0494 715858 • Fax: 0494 713060 BUNKER SAND Fax: (0992) 442946 Specialists in golf course irrigation 20 Whiteacre, Littlehampton, NATIONAL SUPPLIERS West Sussex BN17 7JA Tel: (0903) 724545 Tel: Alderley Edge (0625) 584571/ Full member of B.T.L.I.A. 585143. Fax:(0625) 586130

MONEYSTONE ARTIFICIAL GRASS BUNKER TEE MATS SAND & PUTTING SURFACES FROM Granular and Free Draining Delivered loose bulk, all parts. CARPETITION LTD. For cheapest prices contact: 14 Kaffir Road, Edgerton, Jim Burrows at Huddersfield HD2 2AN. Tel: (0484) 428777 East Midlands Area M & B SUPPLIES Fax:(0484) 423251 Installation, Sales and Paynter Street, Fenton, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffs ST4 3JL Service Tel: (0782) 598383 Everton, Doncaster, DN10 5DR Fax: (0782) 598174 Tel: (0777) 817410 ARC BUCKLAND INDUSTRIAL MINERALS DAWI1HERS ASHWELL Sand and Silica Company Established 1964 Suppliers of PLANT SALES LIMITED COMPLETE RANGE OF TOP DRESSING HORTICULTURAL SANDS Timber Division VARIOUS GRADES OF SCREENED Ral LOAMS AND TOPSOILS Contact Lynda Jordan Criton Industrial Estate, Stanford Road, Orsett, BUNKER AND WASHED SAND The unbeatable partnership Essex RM16 3DH Buckland Sand & Silica Co. Telephone: 0375 892576 Fax: 0375 891736 Honeypot Farm, Honeypot lane, in golf course irrigation Reigate Heath, Reigate, Edenbridge. Kent HOW TO KEEP YOUR TEES u/az 665433 (office) RINGW00D, HANTS, BH24 3AS Surrey RH2 9RG IN PLACE Tel: (0737) 240I5I 0860 543370 (mobile) Tel: (0425) 472251 FIRST Buy your long life Jarrah 0732 867770 (fax) Fax: (0425)472258 SECOND Buy your Tee section I and 3" angle THIRD Telephone 0375 892576 Ashwell T. & G. TURF Plant Sales who have all the RMC. IRRIGATION SERVICES above in stock now CASE TRENCHERS 8 Whitcliffe Grove, Ripon, FOURTH If you need crossing sleepers, North Yorkshire HG4 2JW telegraph poles, RSJs or 12" steel Suppliers of all grades of sand TRENCHEX PLANT SALES Tel: (0765) 2941 (0423) 864963 tubes, we have these in stock and gravel drainage media. Dove Fields, Uttoxeter, Staffs. Full member of B.T.L.I.A. Depot in Midlands and South Fax: (0889) 563140. Transport nationwide arranged HALL AGGREGATES (South East) LTD Tel: (0889) 565155 RMC HOUSE, CANNING STREET, RAILWAY SLEEPERS MAIDSTONE, KENT ME14 2RX A National 8'6" x 10" x 5" Tel: (0622) 761281 CROSSING TIMBERS Fax: (0622) 692433 Irrigation Service 12" x 6" up to 16' long Price quoted for number required. Consultation Free Tel(0233) 625121 or 620277 Fagg's Fleet, Whitfield Road, Professional Planning and Ashford, Kent TN23 1TY mium Design For High Quality Cultivated Turt harvested in conventional Quality Products square yard rolls, and on the big roll turf laying system

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Call Roger Davey GRADSALL INTERNATIONAL LIMITED on (0460) 41939 Grasslands Manufacturers of the SSI00 Screener/Shredder Specialist Seed Grown. Turt Producers Covering the SOUTH EAST. OCMIti 9 Farlough Road, Dungannon, Grasslands Turt Farm, Ashford Road. New IRRIGATION • Northern Ireland BT71 4DT Romney, Kent TN28 8TH Tel Fax (0679) 67130 Solutions you can trust Tel: 08687 40484 • Fax: 08687 48823

MOWER ACCESSORIES OUICKSIGNS LTD Embossed aluminium and engraved signs for the course, clubhouse and pro shop Manufacturers of high Pinewood Road, Ash, Aldershot, Hants GUI2 6DG quality lawnmower Complete range of dried graded Tel/Fax: (0252) 341360 blades and cylinders. silica sands for all purposes. "The Tops in Top Dressing' Suppliers of spares and Contact John Deavin at The finest quality accessories. Jg SHELLEY SIGNS LIMITED. 39 Hockliffe Street, top dressings and sands 65 Forncett Street Leighton Buzzard, KNTRANCK. T MAKKI KS & GKNKKAI SIGNS. Sheffield S4 Bedfordshire LU7 8HB. IN H1GHI Y DURABI I GLASS RKINFOROI) HI AS! IC Tel: (0525) 372201. EATON-ON-TERN, MARKET DRAYTON Tel: 0742 765825 Fax: (0525) 851572. SHROPSHIRE, TF9 2BX. Fax: 0742 765855 Telex: 825868 Tel: 0952 541483 Fax: 0952 541755 FEN TURF DRESSINGS LTD for Fendress Top Dressing Fendress Superfine Improve your course's water supply and Exonomy Dressing ROSS OLIVER reduce your water costs Rootzone Mixes SPORTS GROUND CONSTRUCTION WATER SUPPLY & FILTRATION LTD. Screene4 Fensoil AND MAINTENANCE Specialists in well drilling, filtration Fine Screened Sedge Peat and irrigation systems. The most comprehensive service in VERTIDRAIN MACHINERY Kiln Dried Sand Tel: (091) 488 7558 the south west including SLIT DRAINAGE EQUIPMENT Bunker Sands - screened soils Fax: (091)488 1877 • VERTI-DRAIN for Greens and AVAILABLE FOR HIRE Sportsgrounds 2 Angel Court, High Street, Contact Peter Holmes, • STONE PICKING Mkt. Harborough, Leicestershire 10 Carson Road, Buyers' Guide entries bring results. • RYAN HOLLOW TYNER Tel: (0858) 464346/433003 Gainsborough, Lines DN21 2RE Call 03473 581 for details • SAND SPREADERS Fax: (0858) 434734 Tel: 0427 613035 • Mobile: 0831 359394 • DIRECT DRILLS Contact: Ross Oliver, Greystones, Trebudannon, Cornwall TR8 4LP BAILEY& Tel: (0637) 880257 or (0841) 540222 OF Classified NORFOLK E & S SP0RTSGR0UND For Sale supply CONTRACTORS Professional Turf Dressings Only a sample of our services: AERATORS for the Profession Drainage Classon Model 800 Tractor Mounted Richard Campey 1 Verti-Drain 48" Aerator, fitted with standard /2" GOLF TURF DRESSINGS Tines, complete with Core Collector. KUBOTA 2150 HST fitted Lewis Approved formulations for use in Overseeding Landlugger Loader 4 in 1 bucket and Ex-Demonstration Unit. Current price Construction and on the finest greens, Sand Spreading Lewis Backhoe Turf tyres, only 130 £7,390, only £4,950. tees and fairways. hrs. As new (List over £20,000) Contact: RICHARD VEITCH Multipower Equipment, Effingham, available for £11,250.00 S AND 39 Knox Green, Binfield, Bracknell, All requirements catered for including Surrey KT24 5NA. JOHN DEERE 755 c/w Front Loader Berks RG12 5NZ lime free. Kiln dried sands available. Tel: 0372 453411. Fax: 0372 456552. and mid mtd deck. Low hours £6,250.00 SCREENED TOP SOIL Tel: 0344 860690 KUBOTA 8200, Agric tyres, low hrs Including the finest Black Fenland Soil. GRASS CUTTING £3,950.00 Screened loams to customers' EQUIPMENT individual specifications. FORD 1210, Turf tyres c/w Agar mid Toro Hydroject, Vertidrain Coremaster 12 Lawn Genie pick-up Mower, cuts and We also produce and supply root zone mtd rotary deck £4,150.00 and Ryan Greensaire + Core Harvester, collects almost any length of grass mix and always have vast stocks of MF 240, Turf tyres, tidy £3,950.00 Charterhouse, Sisis and Gill Overseeders, and leaves a good finish. 48" model, cockle shells for immediate delivery Ransomes 2I4 and Beaver 3Q8 Fairway Ex-Demonstration Unit, 3-Point FORD 4110 4WD, Turf tyres, only 730 DELIVERIES NATIONWIDE Scarifiers. Large range of tractors from 16 - Mounted PTO Drive. £1,750. hrs, immaculate £10,350.00 60 HP, as well as machinery for sale. BAILEYS OF NORFOLK Multipower Equipment, Effingham, FORD 335, Turf tyres, tidy £4,650.00 Brick Kiln Road, Hevingham, List and further details from: Surrey KT24 5NA. RANSOMES TURFTRAK 21D. Norwich, Norfolk NRIO 5NL Tel: 0372 453411. Fax: 0372 456552. Ex Demo low hrs, c/w front mtd triple Tel: 060 548 607 mowers and rotary deck - as new Mobile: 0860 661603 £9,750.00 Large selection of gangmowers, triple mowers, spikers FAIRFIELD TURF LTD and scarifiers available. Quality topdressings, Tel: 0260 224568 For further sands, rootzones & topsoils Fax: 0260 224791 details m 06794 731 Fax: 06794 737 NEW and UNUSED mRFE— mm Machinery Ltd 1x 5ft Turf maid Sweeper Collector.-, P.O.A. VERTIDRAINING and HOLLOW CORING HIRE 1x 7ft Turfmaid Sweeper with the G.A. 30 For the largest Collector P.O.A. For Contact Peter Bloodworth selection of 1x 5 Gang Gangmaster TURF DRESSINGS WORTH DRAINING Mower. 6 bladed Cylinders Cornbecks Farm, Irnham, Grantham, • refurbished Fixed & Floating Heads. ROOT ZONE MIXES Lincolnshire Tel: 0476 84266 Hydraulic Folding ...P.O.A. SCREENED TOP SOILS professional Tel: 0823 666471 BUNKER SANDS turf machinery. HORTICULTURAL SEWARD TURF MAINTENANCE COMPOSTS AMENITY GRASS SEED MIXTURES ' No. 1 in the NORTH Telford Way, Kettering, Ten years experience Tel: Northants using only the best. 2 x 1,5m and (073081)5775 Tel: 0536 510515 1x 2.5m verti-drains; Coremaster complete with collector, or fairway overseeder F3X" Contact Michael Seward Rufford on (0904) 765949 night or day (073081)5844 TOP-DRESS SUPPLIES Britain's No. 1 for HERONEIEliP) Ex-Demonstration & Used IHIREI Machinery For Sale Inter Seeds Limited QUALITY Thorn Farm Evesham Rd. Inkberrow Worcs. WR7 4L|. ISEKI TA 530 4WD TRACTOR 36 HP CAB SERVICE (Solihull) Ex-Demo Tel. 10386)793135 Fax. 103861792715 SHEER VALUE FOR Vertidrain, Moore Sportsfield KUBOTA B8200 ROLL BAR 500 hours ISEKI COREMASTER 12 Ex-emo MONEY Over-Seeders, Verti TORO 216 FULLY REBUILT Nucks Wood Quarry, Wiggins Lane, Over-Seeder for Greens & Tees, RANSOMES MOTOR 180 New 16 HP V- Rufford, Nr Southport, Lanes L40 lUj. Toro Aerators, Case Trenchers Twin Engine FREELANCE COPYWRITER SISI AUTO-ROTORAKE Choice of two Tel. (0925) 232476 & Sportsfield Slitters etc. MULTICORE TRACTOR MOUNTED Specialist in Amenity HOLLOW CORER & Agriculture industries offers Contact: Doug or Ron Johnson ROYER SOIL SHREDDER New engine help with your press releases/ ROYER POWER SCREEN Tel: (0564) 772597 TORO 70's and 108's Choice adverts/magazine JACOBSEN GREENSKING Greens & & brochure entries/user stories/ CONWED Thatching Units You expect to read a corny BEAVER LM368 GANGS Twin Roll Units company literature. Competitive TURF REINFORCEMENT message in this space - so here it is - TURNER 40 FLAILMOWER rates, satisfaction guaranteed. 'for the fastest turf production' CHARTERHOUSE VERTI DRAIN BUY A BUYERS' GUIDE GREENS MODEL Contact: WEST MIDLAND TURF GROWERS IN GREENKEEPER Glyn Bryan, Michaelmas Tel: (074-631) 247 Fax: (0746) 767331 INTERNATIONAL - IT WORKS! EFG GARDEN MACHINERY House, Aston, Oxon OX18 2DJ. Call 03473 581/2 Halifax, W. Yorks 0422 882165 Tel/Fax: (0993) 851559 RECRUITMENT The City of Rochester Upon Medway DEPUTY The City Council's Direct Services Organisation has recently won the 5 year contract for the Management of the Deangate Ridge Sports Complex and are now HEAD seeking a HEAD GREENKEEPER GREENKEEPER Qualified

Applicants must be fully experienced in modern greenkeeper greenkeeping methods, possess a recognised required for qualification, have practical knowledge of modern machinery and irrigation systems and have ability to Championship motivate staff. Links. The person appointed will also be part of the management team for the complex. Salary by negotiation. Salary negotiable. Rented housing accommodation may be available. No accommodation. Application and job description can be obtained from the Personnel Services Manager, Civic Centre, Strood, Applications, with full C.V., to The Secretary, Rochester, Kent ME2 4AW. Telephone Medway (0634) 732706 WEST LANCASHIRE (24 hour answering service). Interviews will take place during week commencing GOLF CLUB 13th July 1992. HALL ROAD WEST • BLUNDELLSANDS Closing date: 29th June 1992 LIVERPOOL L23 8SZ.

EAST SUSSEX NATIONAL GOLF CLUB

East Sussex National Golf Course Venue for the 1993 GA European Open

Set in the beautiful rolling countryside of the South Downs in quality of the condition of its two eighteen hole courses, three the heart of East Sussex, the East Sussex National Golf Course hole teaching academy and practice range and this is an is looking for an Assistant Superintendent to join its team of excellent career move for an ambitious and confident hardworking, conscientious staff. greenkeeper who can demonstrate sound and positive team management, self motivation and a willingness to learn new With 4/5 years experience and a minimum qualification of methods and techniques. City and Guilds stage I and II, the successful applicant will be required to motivate and supervise staff, and take Please apply in writing enclosing a current CV to: responsibility for programming and overseeing the day to day maintenance of one of the 18 holes under the guidance of the Ken Barber, Golf Course Manager, East Sussex National Golf Course Superintendent and Course Manager. The East Sussex Course, Little Horsted, Uckfield, East Sussex TN22 5TS. National Golf Course prides itself on the high standard and Closing date: 30th June 1992.

More RECRUITMENT on Pages 7 and 31 GREENKEEPER INTERNATIONAL June 1992 39 RECRUITMENT

HEAD Thurlestone Golf Club GREENKEEPER HEAD required for GREENKEEPER South Wales parkland, required at this well known, picturesque championship course Golf Club on the South Devon coast; due to impending retirement of current holder. (This is a proprietor owned club)

Successful applicant should have suitable In addition to organisational skills, a thorough qualifications and experience in all aspects knowledge of modern greenkeeping machinery is of course management and be available to required, together with the ability to motivate take up position by end of the year. staff.

Salary negotiable. No accommodation. Salary by negotiation.

Apply in writing with full CV by 31st July 1992 to: Applications to: The Secretary, Thurlestone Golf Club, The Administrator, Fairwood Park Golf Club, Thurlestone, Kingsbridge, Fairwood, Swansea SA2 7JN South Devon TQ7 3NZ Telephone: (0792) 297849

The Wildwood Golf Club HEAD wish to appoint a GREENKEEPER Reporting to the Course Manager, you will be responsible for the operation of planned course maintenance HEAD programmes for the Brabazon and Derby golf courses with a team of 15. GREENKEEPER Aged 25+ you will have at least two years in a similar position, possess City and Guilds in Greenkeeping Levels 1 and 2 and Spraying Certificates PA1 and PA2. Applications are invited for the position of HEAD You will also be looking to develop your skills towards the GREENKEEPER at this prestigious new golf course 1993 Ryder Cup. in Surrey. The course construction is complete and it Temporary live-in accommodation may be available, will be open for play in August 1992. salary negotiable for the right candidate. Applicants must have the necessary experience to take this course through the grow-in establishment Please apply in writing with CV to: period. The successful applicant will be directed by Melanie King, Training & Personnel Jack McMillan & Associates - only persons of Manager, The Belfry Hotel, Lichfield Road, Wishaw, North Warwickshire B76 9PF proven ability need apply.

Applications in writing with full CV to: Closing date 30th June 1992 JACK MCMILLAN The Wildwood Golf Club Horsham Road, Alfold, Cranleigh, Surrey GU6 8JE DEVERE HOTELS RECRUITMENT

Sene Valley Golf Club

require a QUALIFIED ASSISTANT GREENKEEPER

Due to an industrial dispute in the postal services, This 18 hole private members club is seeking an applicants for the position of experienced greenkeeper with City & Guilds or equivalent qualifications to join an existing staff of five. Course Manager (May issue) Salary negotiable. No accommodation. are requested to fax applications to: Applications in writing with full CV to: L J Meade Fax: 010 353 61 301028 The Manager If you have any difficulties please telephone. Sene Valley Golf Club, Sene, Folkstone, Kent CT18 8BL Tel: 010 353 61 301015

GREENKEEPERS AND COURSE MANAGERS Seeking a career move? SBTOOQDB is an agency designed to help you meet your requirements. Confidential and effective service requires a For further details contact: HEAD GREENKEEPER for a 9 hole course and par 3 pitch and put, and a planned additional 18 hole course. Applications in writing with full CV to: Managing Director, Kingsway Golf and Leisure Centre 84a Guarlford Road. Malvern, Worcestershire WR14 3QT Cambridge Road, Melbourn, Nr. Royston, Herts SG8 6EY Telephone (0684) 569204 Telephone: (0763) 262727 Employment Agencies Act Reg. M4363

> Hunley Hall Golf Club, Brotton, East Cleveland Fife Regional Council - Education Committee require a Elmwood College Cupar Fife FULLY QUALIFIED Horticultural Division HEAD GREENKEEPER LECTURER IN GREENKEEPING AND GREENKEEPING MANAGEMENT as soon as possible Salary Scale £12,924 - £20,127 FOR A NEW COURSE UNDER CONSTRUCTION Applications are invited for this newly created post. BIGGA Rates of Pay Applicants must possess a Degree or approved Diploma and have relevant No accommodation. experience in Greenkeeping or Groundsmanship and preferably a background of experience in a training role. Apply in writing with full CV to: Application forms and further information are available from the Principal, OCM Associates Ltd Elmwood College, Cupar, Fife KYI5 4JB, telephone (0334) 52781. Applications should be returned by 30 June 1992. The Studio Invitations to attend for interview will be issued by 17 July Mid-Boreland, Kirkcudbright DG6 4UY and interviews will be held on Wednesday 12 August 1992.

t Tike B otley Park Hotel and Country Clul> Woking

requires a Golf Club

HEAD GREENKEEPER requires For our two year old 18 hole golf course, set in beautiful A recently trained young greenkeeper to join a happy Hampshire countryside. The successful applicant will have experienced team on mature heathland course. suitable qualifications and experience in all areas of course Excellent equipment and staff facilities provide a management. Ability to manage and motivate staff, organise congenial position with good rates of pay and work programmes and to have a good eye for attention to prospects. Local man preferred. detail. No accommodation. Applications in writing including salary expectation and a full CV to: Mr G Aymes, General Manager, The Botley Park Hotel and Country Please write giving details of experience to: Club, Winchester Road, Boorley Green, Botley, Hants S03 2UA. The Secretary, Woking Golf Club Telephone: 0489 780888 Pond Road, Hook Heath, Woking, Surrey GU22 0JZ

More RECRUITMENT on Pages 7 and 31 GREENKEEPER INTERNATIONAL JUNE 1992 41 34 ter of there being little to report (again), this because your section is run efficiently by a AROUND THE COMING UP great committee (and knowing my luck, none of them will read this!). Now on to business. July 16th-19th: The Open Championship - We will require names of greenkeepers who Muirfield, Scotland would like to play in our section matches. These GREEN include fixtures against Mid Angliai, BB&O secre- August 10th-12th: BIGGA National Golf taries & captains, and including one or two oth- Tournament - Littlestone GC, Kent ers in the pipeline. So - don't delay, rush your name forward together with Club and handicap, September 8th-10th: IOG Trade Exhibition - to Dave Porter, c/o Ray Clark, Flat 1, Temple Peterborough, Northants GC, Henley Rd, Maidenhead, Berkshire SL6 iLiif mt< September 24th: ISEKI Championships 5LH. On behalf of all section members I congratu- greenkeeper who warned us about the 'gators in Final - Coventry GC, Warwickshire late Roy Kates on becoming the national chair- the everglades at the bottom of the course! man of BIGGA and on receiving the fine red Prize winners: Scratch -G Brown, Turnberry, 75. October 12th: TORO/PGA European Tour blazer. I'm sure we'll see him sporting it at many Handicap 1st class: - 1st J Devlin, KCDC, 82- Student Greenkeeper of the Year Award of our golf days and section functions. Last, but 12 = 70. 2nd W 'Arthur' McMeekin, Turnberry, - Aldwark Manor, York not least, a little note from Bob Woodward 79-7=72. 3rd H Diamond, KCDC, 79-6=73. 2nd requesting that those wishing to make contact class:- 1st J Johnstone, Turnberry, 93-20=73. October 14th-15th: KUBOTA Challenge - should call him at home after 6pm on 0628 2nd S Wilson, Western Gailes, 93-18=75. 3rd D The Belfry, Sutton Coldfield, Warwick- 664512. Please, don't call him at work as it is Whiffen, Dumfries & Country, 89-14=75. Trade shire difficult to get messages on time - thanks. D Duthrie, 77-6=71. New member, A Gallagher, RAY CLARK Skelmorlie. October 19th-November 27th: BIGGA Man- It is with regret that I report the death of Jock agement Courses (six weeks) - Aldwark AYRSHIRE Robertson, ex head greenkeeper at the Troon Manor, York Our spring meeting was held on April 30th at Municipal courses. Jock was a real character and Irvine Ravenspark, where we were welcomed will be sadly missed by his many friends in the November 11th-12th: IOG Scotsturf Trade with a persistent downpour upon our arrival at greenkeeping world. Exhibition, Edinburgh, Scotland 9am. After long deliberation (about five min- On the move: John Kinder is coming to us; utes!), it was decided to dismiss the morning moving from the Bushes in Paisley to Dumfries November 12th-14th: Golf Course Europe round in favour of some welcome discussion and Galloway. Robert Johnstone is moving from '92 Show - Monte Carlo and a few rounds of pool and dominoes. A wise Ardeer to Newport and John McLaughlin is decision, as it turned out to be at least playable moving from Turnberry to assistant head at November 24th-26th: Golf International in the afternoon, although not for 'yours truly'. Dumfries & County. 2000 - Sandown Park, Esher, Surrey Many thanks for the efforts of the bar and Finally, we all wait with bated clubhouse staff for altering things to suit us, to breath for the invitations to arrive for December 7th - ICI Professional Products Cunninghame DC for the use of their course; the grand opening dance at George's Premier Greenkeeper Award: Finals - and to the greenkeepers for their sterling work new 'mansion' at Turnberry. Aldwark Manor, York. in keeping the course open. Also to the young DUNCAN GRAY D&E TURF MAINTENANCE LTD FAIRWAY AERATION THE EASY WAY On 30 and 50 cubic square yard loads we would be very surprised if the massive savings available during our limited offer weren't acceptable to you. Simply give us the opportunity to impress you with a quote!

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They know how cockleshell...... can save time and money ...doesn't damage mowers ...always looks clean - especially after rain THE TORO FAIRWAY AERATOR ...can be used on all your paths, right up to the edge of the grass SHELTON CAMBRIDGE SAND GROOVER ...can be put directly onto sand and stays on the surface TRILO MINI VACUUM/SWEEPER/SCARIFIER DEVENISH LTD. Suppliers of shell sand and top soil Are Your Fairways on ZERO Maintenance? 60 Hambro Hill, Rayleigh, Essex SS6 8DH For Hire "U" Drive or operated Tel: 0268 743866 • Fax: 0268 743867 Nationwide deliveries Contact: Dave Stephenson, D&E Turf Maintenance Co. Ltd., St. Johns Schoolhouse, Central Parade, Shildon, Co. Durham DL4 1DL. Tel: 0388 772844 Evenings 0836 376944 Hire. YEARS IN AD A NATIONWIDE SERVICE CONFORMING TO BS 5750 AD REF REF BUSINESS! 323 307 100 TORO Relieve Turf Stress (AndYours!) ... and now Toro the leaders of Turf Maintenance Technology proudly introduce a revolutionary conceptto the practice of aeration ... TORO HYDROJECT 3000

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To find out more about the truly exceptional HydroJect 3000 phone or pop the coupon in the post and TORO will be delighted to let you have 'facts and figures' that will amaze you and why not... we're the world leaders! / ^ - J* /P TORO distributed by LELY (UK) LIMITED ••••' J* AD Station Road, St Neots, Huntingdon, Cambs PE19 1QH /J REF Fax: 0480216167 Tel: 0480 76971 61 THIRST 1 QUENCHER.

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MEMBER OF Think irrigation. Think Toro. BRITISH TURF Toro Irrigation Limited & LANDSCAPE Unit 7 • Millstream Trading Estate • Ringwood IRRIGATION Hampshire • BH24 3SD Telephone: 0425 • 476261 ASSOCIATION