• Toro Student of the Year 2008 • Health & Safety: Noise Awareness • BIGGA National Championship, sponsored by Kubota £5.00 • Your Drainage on Your Golf Course NOVEMBER | 2008 Chipco 08 (new approval) 28/10/08 09:50 Page 1
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CHIPCO® GREEN contains 250 g/l iprodione. ALWAYS READ THE LABEL.USE PESTICIDES SAFELY (MAPP 13843) (PCS 02714). CHIPCO is a registered trademark of Bayer. © Bayer Environmental Science 2008. BIGGA President Sir Michael Bonallack, OBE
Board of Management November 2008 Chairman – Kenny Mackay Vice Chairman – Peter Todd Past Chairman – Billy McMillan
Board Members Regulars Jeff Mills, Gavin Robson, Archie Dunn, Ian Willett, Tony Smith, Elliott Small, Mark Dobell 4 - 8 News
Chief Executive – John Pemberton 9 GTC Email – [email protected] 10-11 Industry Update Communications Manager / Editor – Scott MacCallum 12 Membership [email protected] Email – An update on Membership matters Sales Manager – Rosie McGilvray Email – [email protected] 13 Education Sami Collins updates us on Learning and Head of Learning & Development – Sami Collins Development matters Email – [email protected] 14-15 Learning & Development: Membership Department – Tracey Maddison Improving A Native Prairie Grass For Turf Email – [email protected] By Eric Watkins
Contact Us 46-47 New Products Post – BIGGA House, Aldwark, Alne, York, YO61 1UF Email – [email protected] 49 What’s Your Number Website – www.bigga.org.uk Tel – 01347 833800 | Fax – 01347 833801 50 Human Resources Tip
51 In the Shed Greenkeeper International’s Puzzle Page
The official monthly magazine of the British 52 News from the Chief Executive & International Golf Greenkeepers Association 52-59 Around the Green Editorial Communications Manager / Editor – Scott MacCallum 66 As I See It… Tel – 01347 833800 | Fax – 01347 833801 National Chairman Kenny Mackay’s monthly column Email – [email protected]
Assistant Editor – Melissa Jones Tel – 01347 833800 | Fax – 01347 833801 Features Email – [email protected] 16-18 Splish, Splash. I Was…Er, Playing Golf? Design The National Championship, sponsored by Kubota, didn’t Design and Production Editor - Tom Campbell enjoy the best of weather but when it came to the golf the Tel – 01347 833800 | Fax – 01347 833801 cream certainly rose to the top. By Scott MacCallum. Email – [email protected] 20-22 The Final: Toro Student Of The Year 2008 Advertising Sales Executive – Kirstin Smith Once again, the level of entrants for this year’s Toro Student Tel – 01347 833800 | Fax – 01347 833802 of the Year competition surpassed all expectations. Email – [email protected] Melissa Jones reports…
Printing 24-25 Looking To The Future Warners Midlands Plc, The Maltings, Manor Lane, By John Pemberton Bourne, Lincolnshire PE10 9PH Tel – 01778 391000 | Fax – 01778 394269 26-27 Team Work And Team Building: Rudding Park Golf Club By Melissa Jones Contents may not be reprinted or otherwise reproduced without written permission. Return postage must accompany all materials 29-31 Noise Induced Hearing Loss: submitted if return is requested. Raising Awareness For Greenkeepers
No responsibility can be assumed for unsolicited materials. The By Herbert Barker right is reserved to edit submissions before publication. 32-35 Living On The Edge Although every care will be taken, no responsibility is accepted for Scott MacCallum travelled all the way to the eastern edge of loss of manuscripts, photographs or artwork. England to a golf club which has a history of producing fine greenkeepers – North Foreland. Opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the Association, and no responsibility is accepted for such content, advertising or 36-37 Making The ‘Appliance Of Science’ Simple product information that may appear. Scott MacCallum visited Scotts’ Levington Research Station and learned just how much goes into producing the products Circulation is by subscription. Subscription rate: UK £47 per year, you use on the golf course. Europe and Eire £60. The magazine is also distributed to BIGGA members, golf clubs, local authorities, the turf industry, libraries and central government. 38-40 Keeping The Bits You Don’t Mow Trim By James de Havilland ISSN: 0961– 6977 42-44 Your Drainage On Your Golf Course © 2008 British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association By Geoffrey Davison
Greenkeeper International 3 Why not drop us an email with any news, press releases or new product updates you have – Send them to Melissa ([email protected]) Welcome 10 YEARS ON…
Earlier this week I was standing, camera in hand, taking a picture of Prince Edward unveiling the plaque to commemorate the opening of the new Bernhard NORRIE WHYTOCK TROPHY & Co offices in Rugby. It was 10 years ago, give a week, that I was standing, camera in hand, taking a picture of Prince Andrew, as he unveiled the plaque August saw BIGGA Scottish Region return to Auchterarder Golf Club for their to commemorate the opening of BIGGA HOUSE. annual Team Competition, featuring the five Sections within Scotland. Auchterarder was one of the few places in Scotland not affected by I remember the occasion because the Prince actually told me it was the weather and this must have delighted the organisers of the Johnnie the worst picture of a plaque unveiling he’d ever seen – he wasn’t looking Walker Tournament at Gleneagles only a sand wedge from the fairways of at the camera and the plaque was still covered - and we all trooped back Auchterarder Golf Club. to the plaque and did the picture again. In mitigation it was due to a The Central Section were hoping to make it three in a row, but with a borrowed, but unreliable, digital camera, but I genuinely felt that having blustery wind and tough pin positions, it took its toll on some of the teams. taken the worst picture of Prince Andrew in action ever was a great claim The ever-reliable North Section finished in 2nd place on a total of 100 points. to fame and have dined off the fact since. I’m currently awaiting comment The team comprised Hugh McLatchie, Peterhead GC; Warren Beveridge, from Prince Edward to discover if I’ve improved any! Ballindalloch GC; Muir Ross and Fraser Downie, both Peterculter GC. The worthy winners, after their one and only success 10 years ago, were the So much water had flown under the bridge since the opening of BIGGA West Section with a winning total of 105 points, Team Captain, Douglas HOUSE on October 21, 1998, not least that Neil Thomas, the Executive McIntosh, Cathkin Braes GC; Brian Hillen, Drumpellier GC; Alasdair Read Director of BIGGA, at the time is no longer with us. and Alan Syme, both Williamwood GC. The winning Captain Douglas thanked Bayer and their Scottish Neil had steered the Association from its inception in 1987 to the stage representative Kenny Liddell for their continued sponsorship of the event. that new offices were necessary and was extremely proud of the strides Thanks go to the Captain and officials of Auchterarder for the courtesy BIGGA had made. He continued at the helm until he was taken seriously and facilities of the golf club and to the Secretary Barry Johnston for his ill with a brain tumour in mid 2003 and died the following February. As assistance in organising the event. I write Seve Ballesteros is fighting a brain tumour, and our thoughts go Special thanks to Archie Dunn and his staff for all the hard work and out to Seve and his family, and this again brings back memories of Neil, congratulations in presenting the course in such excellent condition despite and his proudest day when the new offices were opened. the many days of rain they have had to endure this season. Next year’s event will once again be held at Auchterarder Golf Club on Two of the other honoured guests back then were former Deputy Prime Thursday, August, 20, 2009. Minister under Margaret Thatcher and BIGGA President Viscount Whitelaw and Secretary of the R&A Sir Michael Bonallack, who was to take over as Peter J.Boyd President when Viscount Whitelaw died the following year. Regional Administrator
The magazine that marked BIGGA HOUSE’s opening, November 1998, contained a report of the Hayter International match held in Atlanta, Georgia; an article by Laurence Pithie MG on the benefits of having a dedicated Golf Course Mechanic; a piece on Ramside GC, in the North East, and an article by Roland Taylor - who, sadly, is also no longer with us, on gang mowers and how they are drawing towards retirement.
National Chairman at the time was Gordon Child, who 10 years on, is still in fine fettle – using two new hips to propel him around the golf course, often in a score below his age!
In many ways 1998 seems like only yesterday but in other ways it’s a lifetime away. Where will we all be on October 21st, 2018? is a question to be asked with quite a bit of trepidation bearing in mind the people mentioned above who are no longer with us. However we can all hope that we’ll be enjoying the fruits of our labours, lying back, soaking up the sun on some Caribbean island, safe in the knowledge that we are financially secure and that our savings and investments are locked away somewhere safe.
There’s a novel thought for November, 2008. OUR APOLOGIES
In the last issue (October) of GI, regrettably, some of the text was missing from the article ‘Making the Appliance of Science Simple’; because of this error, we have reprinted the story this month in full.
4 Greenkeeper International NEWS
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freezing, foam hot laser, water; hot steaming, microwave, brushing. and the with control of method effective cost most the be to requiring and longer taking methods other out more frequently. carried Consequently Consequently we are unable to support it. We do that hope, suitable however, amendments will be made as the negotiations continue this autumn.” headquarters, a include faced being currently challenges other use. amenity on of restrictions tightening called to healthcare facilities and there are elements complete a like would who Parliament the within areas. amenity in control chemical on prohibition Government the that you reassure to like would I on based being as measures such view not does a such the debate.” said and 2009 in early or year this later conclude work would Directorate Safety Pesticide the that with and advise stakeholders on arrangements legislation. new implementing for on the research he had undertaken looking for weeds. controlling of methods non-herbicide NO GOVERNMENT GOVERNMENT NO EU FOR SUPPORT PESTICIDE ROUTE negotiations currently underway in Brussels on chemical regulation. Forum the Government Minister with responsibility for Executive. Safety and the Health have not proceeded as we would have wished. a deliver opinion, our in would, text emerging The excessive an to access remove could which regime corresponding any without pesticides of number reduction in risk to the environment or human health. sustainability. of concept the with compatible not
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sent his team out ready to win at all costs. all at win to ready out his team sent pair won the game by 1 hole and gave the trade the gave and hole 1 by game the won pair victory of 4 - 2. overall an team trophy the accepting gratefully left, Cooper, Gary Walker. Allan losing skipper, from next back be will greenkeepers the but year, a for back claim the cup. to year by the Immingham greenstaff, despite a morning a despite greenstaff, Immingham the by of rain and a greensmower hydraulic oil leak. arrived teams the as out came sun the However, on Howkins Les however player, a of withdrawal late manfully took on the role of last man standing against the trade pair of Larter Peter and Ian James. three matches, but the greenkeepers won the next two games to leave them needing a point in the valiant efforts of Les up the 18th, the trade greenkeepers greenkeepers and trade of the East of England battle do to Club, Golf Immingham at met Section fourth their in match. annual Allan been this year’s trade team, led by new skipper Gary “Azinger” the ANNUAL TRADE MATCH ANNUAL TRADE
In its Clubhouse Golf Group of the Year The Golf Group of the Year category in category the The of Golf Group the Year Crown Golf has been named Clubhouse Golf Clubhouse named been has Golf Crown Throughout the two days, golf was only A host of celebrities including Jamie Redknapp, Jamie including celebrities of host A To obtain a booking form for the accommodationthe for form booking a obtain To In 2009 Harrogate Week Seminars are free are Seminars Week Harrogate 2009 In The Scottish Region is pleased to offer the
through through the £100m redevelopment of the St Resort Cornwall. in International Mellion operational excellence in sales and marketing, and a major contribution to the game’s legacy special special open days for women and children, which includes an innovative new disabled teaching disabled new innovative an includes which programme, grass roots golf development via strong strong membership growth, investment in the network, Academy its of launch the through game application, Crown Golf was able to demonstrate demonstrate to able was Golf Crown application, Company, De Vere and Exclusive Hotels. Exclusive and De Vere Company, excellence. Crown Golf was successful in a group a in successful was Golf Crown excellence. Club The Leisure, and Golf Burhill contained which Clubhouse Awards recognises venue and operationaland venue recognises Awards Clubhouse at an annual industry awards dinner hosted by magazine. Clubhouse Group of the Year for the second year in succession in year second the for Year the of Group
SECOND YEAR RUNNINGSECOND YEAR BEST GOLF GROUP FORBEST GOLF GROUP top-class entertainment. top-class interrupted by a gala dinner, charity auction and auction charity dinner, gala a by interrupted charities - Leukaemia Research and Cancer UK. Research Scotland on September 15-16. The event raised event The 15-16. September on Scotland more than £ 132,000 for Beefy and Ronan’s the exclusive the Archerfield exclusive Links Golf Club in Paul Paul Collingwood took part in Sir Ian Botham and Ronan Charity Keating’s Golf Classic at Matt Dawson, Michael Vaughan, Keith Duffy andDuffy Keith Vaughan, Michael Dawson, Matt
CHARITY CHARITY ALL IN THE NAME OF [email protected] contact the Regional Administrator, Peter J Boyd Boyd J Peter Administrator, Regional the contact or 242120 email: 3440/07776 616 on: 0141 in the 2009 Harrogate Week Booklet. Week the 2009 Harrogate in of charge. The workshops that are available can available are that workshops The charge. of be viewed on the Harrogate Week website and Breakfast in en-suite rooms on 19, 20 and 21 2009. Cost will be £165. January, (formerly, Moat House Hotel). The accommodationThe Hotel). House Moat (formerly, & Bed nights Three 19.January Monday, from is following package for the Holiday Inn, Harrogate Harrogate Inn, Holiday the for package following HARROGATE WEEK 2009 HARROGATE Why not drop us an email with any news, press releases or new product updates you have – have you updates product or new releases press news, with any email us an drop not Why ([email protected]) to Melissa Send them News
GREAT SUPPORT FOR NEW OFFICE OPENING GRAHAM WOOD HRH The Earl of Wessex officially opened the new Bernhard & Co offices in front of staff and invited guests at a special ceremony in October. A Charity Golf Day in support of Graham The Earl was shown around the new offices in Rugby and watched a grinding demonstation
NEWS Wood, who spent 32 years as Head Greenkeeper presented by UK Sales Manager, Steve Nixon, before being introduced to the staff and the various at Dunbar Golf Club, and 37 years in all, held at the guests who had flown in from all over the world to commemorate the day. club in September, raised a substantial amount “Our visit by Prince Edward was the culmination of a lot of hard work and detailed planning by of money towards his welfare. many of our Rugby based team. It goes without saying that the honour of having His Royal Highness Graham suffered a stroke early last year and come to open our offices is something I and all the Bernhard team feel immensely proud of. was hospitalised until very recently when he was It was also a well deserved recognition of the Queen’s Award for Enterprise. allowed home. This event also gave us the opportunity to bring several very important industry representatives The money raised will go towards a powered together from across the world. We were proud to host senior executives from the GCSAA, FEGGA, wheel chair and other aids to making Graham’s GCSAI, and FEGGA as well as several well known industry leaders at the opening ceremony, reflecting life as comfortable as possible. our interest in promoting international relations. An added plus was the initiative to involve Land Rover The Charity Day was organised by the golf club, in our celebrations who hosted the group of international visitors at the Land Rover Experience and with a great deal of help from Stuart Greenwood, provided several vehicles for the week.” Graham’s close friend and Course Manager at nearby North Berwick Golf Club, it attracted a huge field – with a double shotgun start, and 54 teams, some starting on several tees, to accommodate the many who wanted to support the event. The greenkeeping industry came out in force to support with many companies supporting the event. Among the celebrities to take part were footballers, Pat Nevin, Murdo McLeod, Darren Jackson, David McPherson and Billy Dodds; rugby stars Doddie Weir and Duncan Hodge and former Leader of the Scottish Conservative Party, David McLetchie. As well as the golf there was an auction, full of attractive lots, conducted by former Scottish Rugby Captain and Dunbar resident, Peter Brown, and a raffle. Graham’s wife, Helen, and daughter, Lisa, were in attendance in the evening as Club Secretary, John Archibald, announced how much money had been raised. Dean Cleaver, of FEGGA; Kenny MacKay and John Pemberton, of BIGGA, Tracy Coburn and Michael Loughran, of the GCSAI chat with the Earl and Stephen Bernhard.
ENVIRONMENTAL DEMANDS FULFILLED BEAUTIFULLY
Ashe Warren Farm has become a leading grower of Wild Flower Turf, the fastest growing medium in the UK for diverse uses such as landscaping projects on domestic and commercial sites as well as civil engineering schemes and green roofs. This breakthrough in technology is the result of a combination of soil-less turf with native wildflower seeds, grown on a compost bed. Advanced research and many trials have given this turf the guarantee of establishing a wildflower meadow, using a specialist seed mix that acts as a weed suppressant, a production process that does not require the turf to be cut resulting in an undamaged root structure and best of all, a turf that requires very little maintenance. Ashe Warren Farm, originally an arable farm, has expanded this specialist turf to such an extent that it is now converting more land to cater for the local, national and sometimes international demand.
6 Greenkeeper International A COURSE WITH A DIFFERENCE
The much awaited Ransomes Jacobsen International Golf Course was opened officially by the Major of Ipswich last month. The three hole course, designed by Howard Swan and James Edwards,
of Swan Golf Designs, will give Ransomes Jacobsen staff the opportunity to NEWS road test new equipment in their own back yard and offer guests the chance to put their short game through the toughest of examinations. In addition to Swan Golf Design the course benefited from support from Rainbird Europe, who supplied the irrigation system; Tarmac Topsport, who provided all the rootzone material, and Barenbrug, who were responsible for all the various grass types used. Each hole has a different construction so that machinery can receive different tests. Recently appointed Head Greenkeeper is Rory Ferguson, son of Ipswich Town’s Groundsman, Alan. Rory works on site four days a week and the remaining day at Writtle College. “This has been a great project and we are so pleased with the result, which reflects the quality of the team we put together,” said RJ Managing Director, David Withers. “We have about 1000 visitors a year coming through our Ipswich facility and we can now demonstrate our machines as well as our acknowledged environmental leadership,” he added. The three holes, Heather, Sand and Water measure 93, 82 and 49 yards respectively off the back tees and they are built round a superb water feature. The 1st green has Bar 2, a slender creeping red fescue, chewings fescue and two browntop bents. The 2nd, Bar Fescue, a mixture of two slender creeping red fescues and two chewings fescues with the 3rd, an all browntop bent mixture of 50% Barking and 50% Heriot. Each of the tees boasts different mixes.
The Major of Ipswich, David Hale, cutting the ribbon in the presence of David Withers.
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Vitax’s Dial-In for Perfect Hydration competition Hydration Perfect for Dial-In Vitax’s Standing in for his colleague Head Greenkeeper, Greenkeeper, Head colleague his for in Standing Grant Moran, Assistant Greenkeeper at ETL European Turfgrass Laboratories Ltd Laboratories European Turfgrass has survey followed by a recommended, tailor-made recommended, a by followed survey hydration programme incorporating Aqua-Aid products. was was open to all turf managers opting for a site David Fraser, who won the Vitax Dial-In for Perfect for Dial-In Vitax the won who Fraser, David Hydration competition, Grant will spend three night one least at including America in days full of out heading before Apple Big the in hotel a in golf. day’s his enjoy to town his way to New York his this to way New month, York on a four day Valley Pine either at golf day’s a including trip free Winged Foot. or Mortonhall Golf Club, Edinburgh will be winging winging be will Edinburgh Club, Golf Mortonhall SCOTTISH GREENKEEPER GREENKEEPER SCOTTISH AMERICAN TOP PLAYS COURSE 8 Greenkeeper International 8 Greenkeeper to to gain full accreditation for what is commonly- referred quite quite a well-known face at Harrogate and other turfgrass and educational events. trade announced the recent appointment of Sharon worked has Sharon Manager. Laboratory as Bruce as them of many years, 10 than more for ETL at already is she so Manager, Laboratory Assistant NEW MANAGEMENT MANAGEMENT NEW APPOINTMENT
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can you on Email [email protected] [email protected] Email on sector feel contact David direct at the GTC “our” you Rest assured the GTC will meet these needs these meet will GTC the assured Rest If are We regularly the reviewing Industry We at the GTC are planning for the future Planning, Planning, budgeting and are marketing must we tighter, get budgets club golf many As the opportunity to train to become managers - and - managers become to train to opportunity the courseat management. stop not do skills these who Managers Course several know already We courseoff responsibilities additional on taken have required they skills added the to listened we and job roles. their new into moved they when CourseGolf, of Directors with discussions through employers. and Managers, providers training of Directors to ManagersCourse bridge help that the GTC. contact Golf please Skill Sets as seen on our website and we need industry input. another that’s but - budget our includes that and Father to letter my write to time it’s maybe story, Christmas! included included in both vocational and academic qualifications. Short courses covering these subjects will also be included on programmes BIGGA. by organised management skills which in modern today’s Course Managers job role are the norm, but for territory. new many, ensure
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In this month’s article David Golding, the GTC’s Education Director, gets into the festive spirit (not)! the festive into gets Education Director, In this month’s article the GTC’s Golding, David you should
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PGA and European Ryder team Cup around colleagues “The World Parts Centre is at the heart of our worldwide dealer and customer support network – network support customer and dealer worldwide our of heart the at is Centre Parts World “The “The result has enhanced the experience of golfers who use our services. Regular Quintic visitors Quintic services. our Regular use who golfers of experience the enhanced has result “The “JCB Service is very proud to have been chosen for this Queen’s Award, which is the 23rd for the the for 23rd the is which Award, Queen’s this for chosen been have to proud very is Service “JCB The recent upgrade the to all-weather putting Huxley green installed at Dr Paul Hurrion’s Quintic Quintic’s of element important an is green putting all-weather Huxley the 2003, in originally Laid measurable produced has surface putting all-weather Huxley latest very the to green the “Upgrading HRH The Duke of Gloucester recently presented a Queen’s Award, marking export achievement, to to achievement, export marking Award, Queen’s a presented recently Gloucester of Duke The HRH JCB Service – based at the PartsWorld Centre – in received the Uttoxeter Queen’s for Award The – Award in the category International Trade – was presented to Group CEO Matthew Taylor which includes facilities in Paris, Madrid, Singapore, Shanghai, Sao in Paulo, Savannah the USA and India. Very shortly, our new Moscow warehouse will be fully operational - and next on our list are the and Czech Republic include three-time Major Championship winner, Padraig Harrington, along with other members of the of members other with along Harrington, Padraig winner, Championship Major three-time include European ALL-WEATHER GREEN HELPS TOP GOLFERS FINE TUNE TUNE FINE GOLFERS TOP HELPS GREEN ALL-WEATHER THEIR PUTTING STROKE leading UK’s the of one Hurrion, Dr said services, consultancy and analysis training, sports professional analysts. performance and consultants science sports improvements ROYAL VISITOR PRESENTS QUEEN’S AWARD TO JCB JCB TO AWARD QUEEN’S PRESENTS VISITOR ROYAL SERVICE partsJCB Service the world. service and providing around of customers thousands for back-up to 2006. 2004 and between cent 36 per than more by sales overseas after increasing Enterprise the to contributed who employees the of many by attended Centre Parts World the at ceremony a at success. JCB Group. It is well-deserved recognition of of the achievement the andpeople gathered here today their putting laboratory has resulted in even better ball roll on a surface that remains consistently true and true consistently remains surface that a on roll ball better even in resulted has laboratory putting conditions. weather of irrespective year, the throughout even The Duke, left, presents the Queen’s Award to JCB CEO Matthew Taylor.
in to new its to IndustryUpdate designed tournament is doors UK
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not or As well as a new engine and power products power and engine new a as well As While the rest of Kawasaki Motors Europe’s Motors Kawasaki of rest the While The global Japanese manufacturer has put in put has manufacturer Japanese global The Kawasaki’s Engine Kawasaki’s and Products Power Because the system is internet based, members based, internet is system the Because administrative valuable a also is Intelligentgolf All the details of every birdie, bogey, par, A new on-line management system for golf golf for system management on-line A new Intelligentgolf, the brainchild of software larger larger team has been put in place under the Kawasaki’s for Manager Product Senior of direction business Products’ Power and Engine European Jack Ford. create a dedicated department to develop these develop to department dedicated a create future. the in areas business key a and a Europe for structure, new department European headquarters in the Netherlands, the the Netherlands, the in headquarters European products power and engines the move to decision administrative The new division which has moved from Amsterdam from moved has which division new The London. just outside operates now the from conducted be to continue will business place a new structure for the development of the of development the for structure new a place business. products power and engine company’s Division European NEW EURO HQ 10 Greenkeeper International Greenkeeper 10 administering every facet of the game – anytime, – game the of facet every administering anyplace, anywhere at the convenience of the administrators. tool, tool, designed to be easy to use so that it is no longer necessary to have one person sitting at in keying clubhouse the of corner a in PC old an scores. Instead it creates a hierarchical ofway matches and tournaments and even download certificates.handicap which is then available for all the club’s registered club’s the all for available then is which view. members to can review their stats, book tee times, enter which they have played. have which they system the into logged are worse or double-bogey developer developer and creator Jamie Abbott, enables players to see where other players have scored well clubs – www.intelligentgolf.co.uk clubs - – offerswww.intelligentgolf.co.uk an advantage to their members on the course as off as well it. GOLF ADMINISTRATORS GOLF ADMINISTRATORS ALSO WILL TOOL DREAM AN EDGE GIVE PLAYERS
INDUSTRY UPDATE INDUSTRY UPDATE
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We look forward to seeing the full 18 holes holes 18 full the seeing to forward look We “We are delighted that the objective in Information Information about ‘Schools for Africa’ Karnataka the at course championship The The original Thomson Peter course has unveiled be will layout 72 par yard 7100 The design the to given been has attention Much A special skid- gold-painted Bobcat S175 A being children the with link the emphasise To first the raising the bar at KGA has been achieved and that and achieved been has KGA at bar the raising the completion inclement most the in even playable proving are weather. of said Howard. soon,” opening a week later, on Saturday, December 13 2008, at 2008, 13 December Saturday, on later, week a over hand to party Christmas company annual the representative a to bid winning the for cheque a of UNICEF Belgium. www.schoolsforafrica.com at available is INDIA NEW THE REVEALED! play for ready be will Bangalore in Association Golf project. renovation afterthis month, two-year a Swan his and Swan Howard by redesigned been the to completely rebuilt and team Designs Golf most modern of standards and performance expectations. irrigation and bunkering, tees, greens, new with throughout. grassing with new together system of that, so features water course’s the enlarging and monsoons, Indian Southern the of worst the in even play. the course quickly for recovers ALL IN THE NAME OFALL IN THE NAME CHARITY steer loader will be auctioned later this year to Bobcat dealers in Europe, Middle East and for ‘Schools the for funds raise to (EMEA) Africa Africa” the in initiative latest the is loader Bobcat unique and EMEA Bobcat between collaboration 3-year UNICEF Belgium. reception the at display permanent on put be will area Republic. loader golden the of auction the UNICEF, by helped Day. Nicholas’ St before day the close to timed is to invited be will auction the winning dealer The Brussels in headquarters EMEA Bobcat the to come
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wanted “We With The company will partner in the production of international Sustainability Guidelines for New Golf New for Guidelines Sustainability international of production the in partner will company The aware environmentally an are “We said: Jacobsen Ransomes at Director Managing Withers, David Ransomes The opening of the garden marked the culmination of almost 10 years planning and fund-raising by fund-raising and planning years 10 almost of culmination the marked garden the of opening The Formally opened by his grand-daughter, Sally Fleming, the memorial garden has as its centrepiece its as has garden memorial the Fleming, Sally grand-daughter, his by opened Formally The
striking first light in saw organisations. strategic and practical guidelines for the planning, design and construction of golf courses, which will which courses, golf of construction and design planning, the for guidelines practical and strategic be of value Developers, to: Investors, Designers, Course owners, and Governments Environmental partner to proposal GEO’s accept to recycling of redundant mowers and turf maintenance equipment, known as ELMO. We are delighted delighted are We ELMO. as known turf and equipment, mowers of redundant maintenance recycling Golf Course Sustainable STRI’s DVD.” Management this is much more than a marketing slogan. We are totally committed to the ethos of sustainable golf sustainable of ethos the to committed totally are We slogan. marketing a than more much is this clearly our and demonstrated supporthave and the Award as Golf sponsorsEnvironment of BIGGA’s organisation and market our products using the strap line ‘Driving Environmental Performance’, but but Performance’, Environmental ‘Driving line strap the using products our market and organisation Development.
through COMMITMENT TO SUSTAINABLE GOLF RE-AFFIRMED COMMITMENT TO SUSTAINABLE who the Harry Ferguson Celebration Committee, a group of Ferguson and Massey Ferguson tractor enthusiasts tractor Ferguson Massey and Ferguson of group a Committee, Celebration Ferguson Harrythe a hand. in spanner and grew up in County Down, Northern Down, County in up Ireland. grew and in the creation of a memorial garden less than 50 metres from the farmhouse in which he was born born was he which in farmhouse the from metres 50 than less garden memorial a of creation the in (GEO) latest project. project. latest (GEO) FERGUSON MEMORIAL GARDEN RECOGNISES LEGACY OF HARRY HARRY OF LEGACY RECOGNISES GARDEN MEMORIAL Learning Development & Mark Humphrey, East of of East Humphrey, Mark England Martins,Paul Mid Anglia International Germany Boettcher, Lukas Gary of Ireland Republic Collins, Anders Germany Linnet, France Marker, Carsten Sweden Lars Stenberg, South East Region Kent Brealy, Samuel London Brown, Christian Bullock,Sean Surrey London Burrowes, Iain Essex Cox, Rob Essex Eady, Sean London Eckett, Sean Kent Ellis, Stephen Harwood,Ben Sussex Surrey Kenny, Thomas Surrey Mann, Michael Smith, Kent Timothy Surrey Snewin, Tom Essex Neil Stopps, London Sullivan, Brian Surrey Thatcher, Lewis Region Wales S West/S West South Eddolls, Trevor Hicks,Carl South Wales Coast South Jupp, Mike Milburn-Anderson, Bradley West South Peter Boyd SCOtland & Northern ireland 0141 616 3440 Tel/Fax: Mobile: 07776 242120 Email: [email protected] Peter Larter northern & midland 550115 01476 Tel: Mobile: 07866 366966 Email: [email protected] Clive Osgood south east 819343 01737 Tel: Mobile: 07841 948410 Email: [email protected] Jane Jones south west & wales 270850 01454 Tel: Mobile: 07841 948110 Email: [email protected] Midland Region Midland Bangham, David Gary Buckle, Anglia Mid Buckle, East of EnglandPaul East Midland Corden, Nathan Anglia Mid De’Ath, Freddie Michael & Berks/Bucks Grant, Oxon Martin Mid Anglia Green, Berks/Bucks Horwood, Stuart & Oxon This month BIGGAThis month welcomes the following new members... Scottish Region West Anderson, David North Dixon, Sam Hood, Central Ross East Kelly, John West MacDonald, Craig East Oliver, George East Thomas, Steven Northern Region Austick,Ian North East North East Barker, Duncan Blank,David North West East North Clough, Ian Richard North Coulson, East East North Harness, Matthew West North Harrison, Adam East North Hetherington, Jack Martin,Allan North West North Wales Parry, Karl BIGGA’s Regional Administrators BIGGA’s
for
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ha”
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have Justine De Taure Email: [email protected] Other useful telephone numbers numbers telephone useful Other (for greenkeeper members only) Personal Accident Helpline 02075 603013 Assistance Legal Greenkeepers 0800 177 7891 that
some
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Remember, as a member of BIGGA you are entitled to a 50% discount discount 50% a to entitled are you BIGGA of member a as Remember, We are pleased to announce that David Anderson, a new BIGGA Member Member BIGGA new a Anderson, David that announce to pleased are We Will be held during Harrogate Week on Wednesday, January 21, 2009 2009 21, January Wednesday, on Week Harrogate during held be Will With Tracey Maddison Tracey Brad Anderson Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] CONTACT US CONTACT By telephone - 01347 833800 (option 1 for Membership.) 12 Greenkeeper International 12 Greenkeeper reaction there is certainly something of interest for everybody. Don’t leave leave Don’t everybody. for interest of something certainly is there reaction today. book minute, the last it until in the West Scottish Section, has won the ipod and Michael Grant at Swinley Swinley at Grant Michael and ipod the won has Section, Scottish West the in both. you to done 6233, well of the Nokia is the winner Golf Club, Forest Winners of the September Prize Draw open to all members, however, only full Greenkeeper Members are entitled are Members Greenkeeper full only however, members, all to open to Remember vote. to bring your current membership card to gain entry. support appreciated. your every is greatly effortPlease make attend; to at 5.15pm in the Queen’s Suite, Harrogate International Centre. The AGM is AGM The Centre. International Harrogate Suite, Queen’s the in 5.15pm at day workshop and the seminars are free. Visit www.harrogateweek.org.uk www.harrogateweek.org.uk Visit free. are seminars the and workshop day information. more for BIGGA Annual General Meeting (AGM) when booking a one-day workshop and 55% discount when booking a half- a booking when discount 55% and workshop one-day a booking when area to Harrogate Week 2009’, which, hopefully, you have had the chance to read. to chance the had have you hopefully, which, 2009’, Week Harrogate to Inside …at Harrogate Week, which is fast approaching, the dates dates the approaching, fast is which Week, Harrogate …at January 22, January 18 – Thursday, for your diary are Sunday, 2009. BIGGA Members save money… BIGGA Members save AN UPDATE FROM BIGGA’S MEMBERSHIP DEPARTMENT FROM BIGGA’S AN UPDATE Membership me”,
MEMBERSHIP Learning & Development
Key Sponsorship: Unlock the potential of Greenkeepers Sami Collins, Head • South East - The of Learning & Beaconsfield Golf Club The funding provided by Gold and Silver Development, provides • Best New Entry - Silloth on Key Sponsors is used to produce Solway Golf Club training and career aids, DVDs, CD Roms, a departmental field guides and provide refunds update… • Special Initiative - for training fees and subsidised learning The last month has Bearwood Lakes Golf Club LEARNING & DEVELOPMENT and development courses. The seen the Definitive Guide funding also helps support seminars, to Harrogate Week hit the Caldy Golf Club will be the workshops, courses, the lending streets, the final of the Toro recipient of a cheque for £2000, library, careers advice, posters and Student of the Year Award and the Scotts Weather Station, a manuals. the results of the BIGGA Golf plaque for their clubhouse and Environment Competition, all in for a year, the Trophy. Many young greenkeepers owe their all a busy month for us here in The Best New Entry, Special career progression to the assistance Initiative and Regional Winners they’ve had from the Learning and the Learning and Development Development Fund. An equal number of Department. By the time you will all be awarded a cheque for established greenkeepers have also been read this Rachael and I will £500 and a plaque. able to access the fund to continue have taken a deep breath and The presentation of the their professional development thanks to have hurtled headlong into the planning and prizes will take place on Tuesday, January 20, the donations of the Gold and preparation for Continue to Learn at Harrogate 2009 at 10am as part of the Opening Session Silver Key Sponsors. Week 2009. and Awards Ceremony at Harrogate International Without all the political voting experienced Centre. THANK YOU TO THE FOLLOWING at the Eurovision Song Contest, I’ll get down to The following golf clubs have been Highly KEY SPONSORS the results of the 2008 competitions: Commended and will be sent a certificate:
Toro Student of the Year 2008 • Hankley Common Golf Club • Minchinhampton Golf Club Having seen the front cover of this magazine • The Bedfordshire Golf Club you’ve probably guessed that the winner of the Golden Key Award and the Scholarship to the University of Congratulations go to all the winners. Massachusetts, is Mathew Wormald from Luffenham Heath Golf Club, representing Brooksby College. Learning and Development Updates Congratulations go to Mathew and to his course tutor Richard Barker. Richard will be joining the Higher Education Scholarships BIGGA group attending the Golf Industry Show in New Orleans in February 2009. The runners-up who will be attending the The most recent scholarship has been awarded to Golden Key Individual Members James Lindsay – Foundation Degree in Sports Turf JH Greasley; WJ Rogers; Andy Campbell MG, CGCS; Continue to Learn Education Programme at Iain A Macleod; Tom Smith; Frank Newberry; Harrogate Week 2009 are James Canham, from Christopher Lomas MG, Lee Strutt MG. Gstaad Golf Club, representing Myerscough College Library Books and Paul Carella, from Bothwell Castle Golf Club, We have added one new book to the library representing GOSTA Training Ltd. in the last month: Congratulations go to all the finalists who The Computer Book – Getting Things Done presented themselves in a truly professional on Your PC. Windows Vista Edition. Silver Key manner. Free Books BIGGA Golf Environment Competition As mentioned in my article in September, 2008 we have some duplicate library books available to members, free of charge except for postage and packing. The list of books, with the p&p cost The judges of the BIGGA Golf Environment can be found at www.bigga.org.uk/education/ Competition completed their deliberations and free-books/. the results are: • National Winner - Caldy Golf Club Don’t forget Harrogate Week! Regional Winners: • Scotland - Loch Lomond Golf Club Silver Key Individual Members Ade Archer; Steven Tierney; Paul Jenkins; Iain Barr; Richard • Northern - Fairhaven Golf Club McGlynn; Steve Dixon; Sam Langrick. • Midlands - The Enville Golf Club For Workshop availability and information on • South West & South Wales - Royal St David’s the Continue to Learn Education Programme contact Golf Club Rachael Duffy on: 01347 833800 ext: 522.
Greenkeeper International 13
that Fig 1
Yields diseases plants seed.
any
of
find
to
identified We are continuously are We quantities order yet
cleaned. and in
not have (See Fig. 2) Fig. (See sufficient
we tolerance
produce to This species can survive in very dry conditions;dryvery in survive can species This Although Although turfgrass quality is the primary
drought
breeding breeding goal of our programme, in order to be be must cultivar turfgrass a consumers, by used able from our nurseries in and 2007 2008 indicate that seed production in Minnesota should be produce can it if unknown is it however, possible; can that seed of amounts adequate economically harvested be efficiently however, it may do so by going dormant. Turfgrass Turfgrass dormant. going by so do may it however, only cannot that grass a prefer would managers during green stay also but conditions, drysurvive stress. We are screening our breeding material for are able to maintain green color throughout of stress. periods rust species, this with problem major a are that conditionscertain under appear do spot leaf and plots turf our in selecting for disease resistance in our breeding populations.
summer
tolerance,
traffic
and
By Eric Watkins (wear Turfgrass establishment Turfgrass may also become It is clear that this grass has several traits that traits several has grass this that clear is It turf invasion. weed increased and density due to tough vascular tissue that is found in the the in found is that tissue vascular tough to due some have may trait This leaf. junegrass prairie advantages amount high the however, etc.); tolerance, stress mowing a after seen be can that shredding leaf of turfgrass to managers unacceptable be would (See Fig. 1). a major issue in this species. The slow vertical greatly can which junegrass, prairie of rate growth attractive an it makes frequency, mowing reduce is trait this While environments. low-input for option slowalready-establishedturf, an in advantageous poor to lead can establishment during rate growth Challenges make it a potentially great low-input turfgrass. that challenges several are there Unfortunately, will need to be before overcome our goal of a useful turf cultivar can be accomplished. The with encountering are we that challengeprimary native germplasm is very low mowing quality
developed
specifically
species
IMPROVING A NATIVE NATIVE A IMPROVING this of
cultivar Prairie junegrass has several attributes that that attributes several has junegrass Prairie
Grass species that are native to North AmericaNorth to native are that species Grass PRAIRIE GRASS FOR TURF FOR GRASS PRAIRIE 14 Greenkeeper International Greenkeeper 14 germplasm native to North America that can be be can that America North to native germplasm lawns, home parks, roughs, course golf for used low-input roadsides. fields and athletic and and Sharp, 1994). have We initiated a prairie ultimate the with programme breeding junegrass goal being the development of a cultivar using ‘Barkoel’, released by Barenbrug Holland, was the was Holland, Barenbrug by released ‘Barkoel’, first was cultivar this however, turfgrass; a as use for (Alderson Europe from ecotypes with developed tolerance of droughty and alkaline soils, tolerance soils, alkaline and droughty of tolerance temperature high and low of survival areas, sandy of 2000). (Dixon, rates growth reduced and extremes, irrigation, irrigation, limited nitrogen application, and no applications). insecticide or fungicide including:turfgrasslow-input useful a it make would 2000). Based on data that has been collected perform to appears species this years, recent in (no conditions low-input under Minnesota in well (Mintenko et (Mintenko al., 2002). The species is widely United western the of much throughout distributed found be also can it and (Hitchcock,1950) States throughout much of Europe and Asia (Dixon, grass native to the Great Plains of the United successfully be to potential the shown has States, environments lower-input in turfgrass a as used should be better able to cope with our environment our with cope to able better be should and could lead to overall reductions in inputs Prairie water. and pesticides, fertilisers, as such junegrass (Koeleria macrantha), a bunch-type
In the United States, increasedIn the United States, the on focused been has attention environmental effects of turfgrass areas such as golf courses and home lawns. In Minnesota, the most well-known of phosphorus on ban the efforts is these Twin the in turfareas for fertilisers Cities metro area (Horgan et al., been since has legislation This 2003). counties 82 all include to extended of the state. Plant breeders need to course golf for options new develop that so greenkeepers and managers commonly-used of restrictions further affect negatively not do inputs turfgrass the golf industry in the US. Learning & Development & Learning
LEARNING & DEVELOPMENT LEARNING & DEVELOPMENT
Fig 4 fertilization phosphorus a Developing Mintenko, A.S., S.R. Smith, and D.J. Cattani. Cattani. D.J. and Smith, S.R. A.S., Mintenko, Hitchcock, A.S. 1950. Manual of the grasses the of Manual Hitchcock,1950.A.S. Bierman, and C.R. P. Rosen. Horgan, B.P., Alderson, J., and Sharp. W.C. 1994. Grass (Ledeb.) macrantha Koeleria 2000. J.M. Dixon, pro parte, K. gracilis Pers., K. albescens auct. non auct. albescens K. Pers., gracilis K. parte, pro Ecol. 88:709-726. DC.). J. of the United States. 2nd ed. USDA Misc. Publ. 200. 2003. training program for golf course personnel. J. 41:www.joe.org. Extension 2002. of evaluation Turfgrass native grasses for the northern Great Plains region. Crop Sci. 42:2018-2024. University of Minnesota (USA). Eric received his Ph.D. in Plant Biology from Rutgers University in New His Jersey. research focuses on the development of low-input turfgrass cultivars for involve activities Research climates. cold in use cool-season several of improvement germplasm Kentucky fescue, tall including speciesturfgrass focus major A ryegrass. perennial and bluegrass as such grasses native breeding is research his of tufted and macrantha) (Koeleria junegrass prairie hairgrass (Deschampsia cespitosa) for use as turfgrass with involved also is He turf. low-input and cultivar evaluation other turfgrass science research. Eric teaches three undergraduate turfgrass science courses. References varieties in the United States. Lewis Publishers, FL. Boca Raton, Pers. (L.) cristata K. Domin, alpigena (K. Schultes Eric Watkins Eric is Watkins an Assistant Professor in This project would not be possible if not for the for not if possible be not would project This The ultimate goal of our project is the release the is project our of goal ultimate The Developing a new cultivar of any grass takes grass any of cultivar new a Developing United United States Golf Association, United States ResearchAgricultural – Agriculture of Department Foundation, Grounds and Turf Minnesota Service, Graduate the from programme Grant-in-Aid the and School, University of Minnesota. About the author the Department of Horticultural Science at the research is important because it is imperative that imperative is it because important is research optionsviable with provided are managersturfgrass for low-input As environments. environmental andcourses golf increase, to continues awareness required,often and expected, be will areasturf other and fungicides fertilisers, as such inputs reduce to insecticides. Improving the genetic potential of a native species such as prairie junegrass may solve future turf management dilemmas that concerns. environmental to due arise Acknowledgments organisations: following the from support generous collections collections throughout North America. We are junegrass prairie expanding on working currently research efforts by collaborating with other researchers throughout the US. Once we are there cultivar, turfgrass viable a develop to able will also need to be research conducted on the of the species. management proper Conclusion can that cultivar junegrass prairie improved an of greenkeepers and managers course golf by used be an to lead will This managers.turfgrass other and environment improved and reduced costs. This evaluations will evaluations be advanced in our breeding programme. after Eventually, several years of breeding and evaluation, a group of elite plants of this species. cultivar a new will constitute Future Plans several years; this is especially the case for a somewhat undomesticated species such as our years, few next the During junegrass. prairie programme will continue to make germplasm resistance, vertical growth rate, leaf texture and and texture leaf rate, growth vertical resistance, currently are that trials Other tolerance. drought evaluations production seed include progress in these in well perform that Plants trials. turf and (See (See Fig 3 Fig 2 . 4). Fig. (See
field the
in
winter one through We have used material from our collections collections our from material used have We When collecting, we are primarily focused on focused primarily are we collecting, When The major limitation when developing a breedinga developing when limitation major The include leaf density, colour, mowing quality, disease quality, mowing colour, density, leaf include unique traits that can be utilised in the breeding breeding the in utilised be can that traits unique evaluating are we that Characteristics programme. genotypes and lines in our collection that possess that collection our in lines and genotypes Currently, we are collecting data on mowed spaced mowed on data collecting are we Currently, individual are there if determine to order in plants to to establish multiple research trials that will challenges. breeding aforementioned the address along with germplasm from government collections government from germplasm with along Evaluation traits. harvested seed is then for evaluated important gone The best plants are then allowed to cross and seedlings seedlings are transferred to a breeding nursery where they are allowed to cross once they have Seeds are collected from plants in native stands native in plants from collected are Seeds Eventually, greenhouse. the in planted then and of seed production even under dry, hot conditions. conditions. hot dry, under even production seed of , Nebraska, and Colorado. and Fig 3), Nebraska, amounts high and colour good exhibit that plants in in North Minnesota South Dakota, Dakota, have collected throughout the north central United United central north the throughout collected have collections made have we point, this To States. be developed. During the past several years, we we years, several past the During developed. be programme for a ‘new’ species is the availability availability the is species ‘new’ a for programme of germplasm from which a useful cultivar can Germplasm FEATURE
SPLISH, SPLASH. I WAS…ER, PLAYING GOLF?
The National Championship, sponsored shelved and became a Stableford on the opening represented by Sales and Marketing Director for by Kubota, didn’t enjoy the best of day with a one day medal on the second, over Tractor and Groundscare Products, Dave Roberts, weather but when it came to the golf the East Course. and Colin Hennah, the local Area Manager. Colin the cream certainly rose to the top. The rain had begun on Saturday night and had to stand in on the photographs when Dave had Scott MacCallum reports from East didn’t stop until the middle of the Sunday afternoon to leave on Monday morning for a meeting. Sussex National GC. but it didn’t stop the greenstaff from preparing But despite everything some great golf was First things first. No-one drowned or was a superb test for a field of very talented BIGGA played and history made as +1 handicapper, blown away. I say that because the weather on members. With preferred lies in operation tee David Simpson, from Crieff GC, became the first the opening day of the 2008 BIGGA National shots were producing splashes of water when man successfully to defend the BIGGA Challenge Championship, sponsored by Kubota was such they landed and balls were plugging all over the Trophy, and thus become the Champion Golfer of that either scenario was perfectly feasible. course. It makes it all the more remarkable that the the Association for the second time in a row. The rain and wind combination was truly greens were as fast as they were true. Countless Playing with two other +1 handicappers David horrendous and it is a tribute to East Sussex players were racing their ball past because they emerged on top with a fine round of 74 giving him National’s Course Manager, Scott Litchfield and couldn’t equate the horrible conditions with greens a two shot advantage over the rest of the field. his men, that they got the West Course playable of such pace. “I wasn’t expecting to win as I’d been poor at all. The Championship was sponsored for the most of the season but I’m absolutely delighted to As it was, the two day medal competition was second successive year by Kubota, who were become the first person to defend the title.
16 Greenkeeper International FEATURE
Neil Geiring, Archie, and Scott Litchfield enjoy a laugh
Kenny Mackay tees off
“I’d much rather have played it over 36 holes being fought out among the elite golfers in the with the word “National” attached to it is special but the weather was against us but I’d say it was field, the Challenge Cup for Best Nett was a realistic while it’s against my peers on some very special a better test of golf than last year and the field target for the majority of the field, and it was a golf courses,” said David. was stronger with more low handicappers in it,” closely contested affair. He was five over at the turn and in good shape said David, who along with his work colleague The man who emerged with the spoils was 14 and then went par, bogey, par bogey to give himself and fellow competitor, Tom Adams, had a 12 handicapper, David Fellows, Course Manager at a real chance but a double bogey, double bogey hour drive to get home, arriving at 7.30am the Cocks Moors Wood GC, with a score of 70. finish meant he just scraped home. next morning. Ironically the first time I saw David play during “I’d targeted bogeying every hole on the way David scrambled well over the early holes the Championship was on the 3rd of the West home but it didn’t quite happen but that’s why until he got into the swing, but he felt that he had Course the previous day when he four putted. I’m a 14 handicapper.” missed a few opportunities on the way home. He obviously used that day to hone his game On that four putt the previous day David took “The greens were superb, but extremely tricky for a determined assault on the main event the the positive from it. to read,” he said. following day. It worked! “I knew then that it was all about the putting “I am hoping to return to Burnham and Berrow Fellow David – Fellows – had finished in the and getting the speed of the greens and I worked on next year to try and make it three in a row but it prizes a couple of times in the last four years but that. It was down to hard work and luck on the day,” will be a tall order,” said the 30 year-old. this year rose to the top. said David, for who next year’s venue of Burnham With the destination of the Challenge Trophy “It’s the biggest thing I’ve ever one. Anything and Berrow is one of his favourite courses.
Greenkeeper International 17 FEATURE
All the trophy winners
The Associate Competition was a real nail- made full use of home advantage clinching an the Monday,” said Dave Roberts. biter! Andrew Cornes, of Acorn Golf, finished like a eight shot win over the Midland Region. “Congratulations to David who won the train, with a magnificent final four holes, including Next year’s BIGGA National Championship consecutive title for the first time I believe. I am a par at the intimidating final hole par-4, to claw will be played at the superb Somerset links of sure that made the long journey home to Crieff his way to the top of the leaderboard and lift the Burnham & Berrow GC, near Weston-super-Mare, much shorter. The organisation by BIGGA and the inaugural BIGGA Challenge Bowl. on October Monday 5 and Tuesday 6, 2009. excellent facilities at East Sussex National, made The Sunday Stableford actually suited the “It was great to be involved with the National this a special event again and all of us at Kubota players closer to the rear of the field as the weather Championship again this year, to see some familiar were very proud to sponsor the tournament again,” improved dramatically after lunch and Brian faces as well as meeting many new competitors. said Dave, who showed his own golfing prowess Robinson, of Belton Woods GC, took advantage Although the weather did its best on Sunday, with a few holes in the slightly better weather on with a superb 37 pts. there was no dampening the commitment and the Sunday afternoon in the company of John The Regional Team Trophy was played for enthusiasm of the players in the competition, and Pemberton and myself. over the second day and the South East Region they were rewarded with some great weather on
RESULTS
BIGGA Challenge Trophy (Best Gross) – David Simpson, Crieff GC, 74 Handicap Prizes 2. Lawrie Tremlett, Lewes GC, 76, (BIH) +1-5 Mark Blacknell, Nottingham City GC, 73 3. Gary Burgess, Grange Park GC, 76 (Nett) BIGGA Challenge Cup (Best Nett) 6-12 Graeme Millar, Pitlochry GC, 73 (Nett) – David Fellows, Cocks Moors Wood 13-24 Stuart Playle, Sandy Lodge GC, 81 (Nett) GC, 70 Nearest the Pin, Mark Blacknell, Nottingham 2. Darren Burton, North Foreland GC, 71 City 3. David Badham, Stockley Park GC, 73 Longest Drive, George Morgan, The Mendip GC BIGGA Challenge Plate (Stableford) – Brian Robinson, Belton Woods GC, Regional Team Trophy 37pts 1. South East. 445. J. Hughes, 76; B. Wallis, 76; 2. Antony Kirwan, Lexden Wood GC, 36pts M. Henderson, 75; D. Badham, 73 G. Branchett, BIGGA Challenge Cup winner, David Fellows 3. John Ganley, North Warwickshire GC, 35pts 74; D. Burton, 71. (left) and BIGGA Challenge Trophy winner, 4. Chris Bitten, Stoneham GC, 34pts David Simpson (right). BIGGA Challenge Bowl 2. Midland. 453. S. Scott, 76; J. Ganley, 78; K. (Associate Prize) MacKay, 77; M. Blacknell, 73, B Holt, 79; D. Fellows, 70. – Andrew Cornes, Acorn Golf, 82 (Nett)
18 Greenkeeper International GL40_260x87.qxd:Layout 1 6/10/08 13:11 Page 1
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Greenkeeper International 19 THE FINAL: TORO STUDENT OF THE YEAR 2008 FEATURE
Once again, the level of entrants for this year’s Toro Student of the Year competition surpassed all expectations and it was up to the judges to make some tough decisions in a fierce final at BIGGA HOUSE. Melissa Jones reports…
As a student having to juggle both Executive of BIGGA; Jeff Mills, from the BIGGA Common GC, Farnham; Barrie Lewis, from Ratho work and study requires hard work and Board of Management; Peter Mansfield from Park GC, Edinburgh, and Greg Wellings, from dedication. This year’s finalists are a Lely (UK) Ltd and Sami Collins, BIGGA’s Head of Stockport GC, Cheshire, were put out of their prime example of what time and effort Learning & Development. misery as BIGGA Chief Executive, John Pemberton, can achieve. After an exhausting, nail-biting wait, finalists: announced this year’s winners. Eight anxious greenkeepers visited BIGGA James Canham, from Golf Club Gstaad, Switzerland; Overall winner and Toro Student of the Year HOUSE on September 15 to be quizzed and Paul Carella, from Bothwell Castle GC, Uddingston; 2008 was Mathew Wormald (24) representing probed within an inch of their lives and given the George Pendrich, from Scotscraig GC, Tayport; Brooksby College. task of completing a report on Aldwark Manor Mathew Wormald, from Luffenham Heath GC, Mathew’s amazing prize involves an eight- GC (evaluating nine of the holes). On the judging Lincolnshire; David Jones from Tadmarton Heath week trip to the USA, where, for six weeks, the panel this year were: John Pemberton, Chief GC, Wigginton; Graeme Roberts, from Hankley University of Massachusetts will be home, as he
20 Greenkeeper International THE FINAL: TORO STUDENT OF THE YEAR 2008 FEATURE
Back row L to R: Peter Mansfield from Lely (UK) Ltd, BIGGA Chairman Kenny Mackay, Graeme Roberts, Jeff Mills, BIGGA Board Member Tony Smith, Barrie Lewis, David Jowes, BIGGA Head of Learning & Development Sami Collins, BIGGA Chief Executive John Pemberton. Front row L to R: George Pendrich, James Canham, Mathew Wormald, Paul Carella, Greg Wellings.
completes a residential turf management study Assistant Greenkeeper at Weston Park GC. time and met a fantastic group of people. I would course. The trip also includes visits to the Toro “The award serves as inspiration to all student also like to thank Bothwell Castle Golf Club’s Garry Headquarters in Minneapolis, the Toro Irrigation greenkeepers with enthusiasm and ambition. It’s Anderson, Head Greenkeeper, Alasdair McDermid, Division and to the GCSAA Golf Industry Show in a memorable and highly rewarding experience; a First Assistant, Stewart Carbray, Assistant and New Orleans next February. credit to both BIGGA and Toro,” said James. my lecturer, Iain Forbes and GOSTA Training Runners up were James Canham (22) Paul, who is currently working towards his Ltd, for supporting me through my education,” representing Myerscough College and Paul Carella NVQ Level 3, has worked at Bothwell Castle for said Paul. (20) representing GOSTA Training. four years now, taking on the role of Assistant James and Paul both win a trip to Harrogate James was a blast from the past (as far as this Greenkeeper. Week 2009, where they will be invited to attend competition goes), 2004 saw him claim runner- “I would like to thank BIGGA and Toro for the Continue to Learn Education Programme as up position at the age of 18, while working as an organising and running the final. I had a great well as the social events.
Greenkeeper International 21 AND THE WINNER IS…
2008 Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year winner, Mathew Wormald, couldn’t be happier and feels as though he’s finally found his path in life. Melissa Jones reports…
Mathew has always had an interest in golf but greenkeeping was the last place he expected his career to take him. “I went to university not knowing what I wanted
FEATURE to do and opted for a business and marketing degree, as that offered a wide spectrum of management and I knew it would stand me in good stead for almost anything,” explained Mathew, who has a handicap of 18. After finishing university Mathew went to London to work as an Estate Agent. “I was awful at it. I couldn’t lie and didn’t sell many houses,” laughed Mathew. “I decided to come home. I worked at a farm for a couple of months, during this time I saw the vacancy at Luffenham Heath advertised, I applied, got the job – the rest is history.” Mathew has been at the club for two years now and feels as if he has finally found his path in life. “It’s awesome, I love it. Greenkeeping makes me burn inside. Every single aspect of turfgrass management you can think of excites me. It’s just so interesting and indepth,” enthused Mathew. Toro Student of the Year 2008 Mathew Wormald representing Brooksby College. At the end of this month Mathew will have completed his Level 2 in Sportsturf Management my college work, it’s been 18 months of hard with irrigation. It’s time for British greenkeeping at Brooksby College with the help of tutor Richard graft to get here.” to embrace it and move forward.” Barker – BIGGA Chairman 2002. It seems that preparation was the key to Appreciative of the support that BIGGA have “It’s nice that the college is now getting some Mathew’s success. given him, Mathew is also keen, after he has been publicity. To win the award coming from Brooksby “For the final interview I explored every single in greenkeeping for a number of years and been is even more satisfying, I hope it makes people sit area of the competition. I phoned America to find around the world, to open peoples eyes to what up and realise how good the college is”. out what books and areas I would be studying if BIGGA is and what we do, Mathew couldn’t be more thrilled with his I got through, and bought and read a couple of “Maybe I’ll be Chairman one day, with a bit achievement and his bursting enthusiasm for them so that I had a better understanding of what of luck,” he laughed. the industry is plain to see. getting myself into.” Mathew’s goal is to become a Head Greenkeeper “People just don’t understand how passionate Mathew also came up three weeks prior to at an Open venue. Once he has achieved that, he I am about greenkeeping. I cried to my mum the final at BIGGA HQ to complete his course is keen to work on new courses and new builds, on the phone. It means that much to me that I report and phoned 2007 winner, Avon Bridges, advising people on how to manager their golf got back to my hotel room and cried. It’s been and 1994 winner, Euan Grant for their advice on course. a long two and a half days and I don’t think it’s what to look out for and what to expect at interview. “I had Royal Troon in my sight but that might completely sunk in yet. Mathew also took the time to read through our be a little too soon! I love Troon as a golf course “The only person that can hold you back is BIGGA website, as well as Toro’s. and would love to work there, it would fulfil my yourself, if you really want it, you have to go for it. “I walked into the interview and for the first childhood dream really.” Greenkeeping is a fantastic industry to be in, you time in my life I wasn’t nervous,” he beamed. Mathew wants to thank Avon Bridges and can travel the world with a career in greenkeeping “You know when you work so hard for something Euan Grant for their advice, and BIGGA and Toro if you wish. and you actually achieve it. It’s just an amazing for the opportunity of a lifetime. “It’s been so draining. It’s an amazing experience feeling. I just nailed it! It worked. When I get to “It’s just been awesome. People that have but nervewracking. I’ve been awarded the prize for go to America it’s gonna be even better. I can’t gone away disappointed need to realise they a reason - because people believe in me. I want wait to get my teeth into it and gain a better, more have got through to the final and if they want to be Student of Year for a reason and for people scientific understanding” smiled Mathew. something that bad they will eventually get it. to see me and say ‘I saw him 10 years ago and “Hopefully I’ll be able to bring some good I wish everyone the best of luck for the future. he’s done what he said he would.’ ideas back from America, amalgamate them Just to get through to the finals is a cracking “Going to America will add to the depth of what with British greenkeeping and move forward achievement for everybody.” I can learn. When I first started greenkeeping and from there.” Mathew would like to thank Luffenham Golf found out about the award it instantly became “The way technology is going, greenkeeping is Club for their support throughout the competition something I wanted to work towards. I always going to get really exciting over the next 10-15 years, and for their continued support while he is away put that little bit of extra effort in when doing with companies like Toro pushing the boundaries in America.
22 Greenkeeper International To register, book education www.harrogateweek.org.uk or fi nd accommodation, visit
Organised by BIGGA Harrogate Week 2009 For the Turf Management and Groundscare Professional • The Greatest Choice of Groundscare Products and Services • Careers Clinic with Free Advice from the Professionals • Exhibitors Covering the Whole Industry • Comprehensive Education Programme • Invaluable Networking Opportunities • Advice from Industry Experts FREE • New Technology on Display Park & Ride 20-22 January 2009
HW09AD_A4.indd 1 22/9/08 12:47:22 FEATURE
MOVING WITH THE TIMES John Pemberton, BIGGA’s Chief Executive, outlines proposed changes to the Constitution that are to be put to members at the AGM in January
Setting the Scene between greenkeeping and groundsmanship. without the backing of the members at a General Sadly the potential operational problems ruled Meeting and consultation will take place over the Some while ago the then BIGGA Board of the day and the IOG withdrew after 10 months next two months prior to the AGM in January at Management recognised the need to develop the of in-depth discussions. Harrogate. Association beyond greenkeeping into sports turf The Board is not of the opinion that if the generally. Over the years, working with the GTC Moving Forward proposed Constitution is approved by the members in particular, BIGGA has developed the formal that there will be a sudden influx of groundsmen, training and education of greenkeepers and Following the collapse of the merger talks, the who will then seek to take over the Association. There has successfully become a training provider in Board were even more convinced that greenkeepers will be a systematic recruitment programme that its own right. Much of what has been achieved and groundsman had a great deal to share and will include attractive offers to the larger golfing/ has a natural synergy with the role of the sports that the way forward for BIGGA and the sports turf sports turf establishments where membership is turf groundsman and this lead to talks in 2007 industry would be for the Association to embrace currently under represented, coupled with a drive between representatives of the BIGGA Board and groundsmen as members on an equal footing to on individual membership. Rest assured that the IOG Board, regarding a possible merger. The greenkeepers, at an equal rate of subscription. the proposals protect the rights and benefits of basic concept being that one united organisation To this end a working party has, over the last six current members who have a great deal to gain would be better placed to represent and develop months or so, been looking at how this could be rather than much to lose. the interests and education of those working in the achieved, what the consequences would be for maintenance and management of sports turf. existing members, which key industry partnerships Some of the strengths and advantages of Merger talks sparked off a great deal of could be developed and how administratively the the proposed development include: industry debate and speculation, some of which changes could be achieved. became very passionate at times. The trade At its latest meeting on October 14, the Board • A unified voice for sports turf employees companies embraced the notion with open approved draft proposals for changes to the • A better chance of having impact at Government arms and a great number of people, members Constitution to allow sports turf groundsmen to level and non-members in both camps, welcomed the become members together with a draft simplification • Enlarged local representation enabling ‘new suggestion recognising that perhaps a unification of the membership structure. The fundemental blood’ to come into the administration and should have taken place years ago. The more the governance of the Association would remain management of Regions and Sections two organisations talked the more administrative unchanged; it would remain an organisation • The opportunity for greater support for Region hurdles came to light but never were the BIGGA for its members, run at the highest level by and Section activities Board discouraged on the grounds of a mis-match its members. Nothing, however, can progress • Improved influence over the development
24 Greenkeeper International REVISED MEMBERSHIP CATEGORIES 1 Full Member Any person employed in the maintenance of sports turf at a sports facility. Split into: - Category A = Manager Category B = All other greenkeeping or groundscare employees who have gained a minimum qualification or who hold a minimum of three years continuous relevant experience.
*(Incorporating: Category A - Course Manager, Head Greenkeeper. Category B - Deputy Course Manager, Deputy Head Greenkeeper, First Assistant, Greenkeeper aged 21 years and above, Greenkeeper aged 20 and under and Mechanics) FEATURE
2 Associate Member Any person employed in the maintenance of sports turf at a sports facility and is not eligible to be a Full Member.
(Incorporating unqualified aged 21 years and over and unqualified aged 20 and under)
3 Life Member At the discretion of the Board of Management any Full Member recognized as having contributed in an outstanding manner to the Association or profession.
(Proposals for the election of a Life Member shall be made only by the Board of Management following Regional Board nomination and the election shall be by the Association in General Meeting.)
4 Retired Member Any Full Member who has been a member for a minimum of 5 consecutive years and has retired from work.
(Incorporating Retired Member (full) and Retired Member of the structure and content of national Team at Headquarters, a member of the Board (limited benefits)). qualifications of Management or a Regional Administrator. The • An enlarged membership base would increase views of the members are important and I would 5 Student Member the Association’s buying power thereby providing hope that any concerns will be addressed before Any person studying full-time towards the opportunity to improve member benefits the AGM. While there will be an opportunity to an appropriate qualification in turf • Improved financial stability through new debate the draft Constitution at the AGM I would management. commercial opportunities hope that prior consultation will keep this down to • Better provision of short training and education a minimum, so that the matter can be dealt with (Incorporating full time Students). courses on a local and national basis in a professional way. During November I, together • The opportunity to develop a National Centre with Tracey Maddison (Head of Membership 6 International Member for Sports Turf based at Aldwark Manor Services), will be attending the conferences of Any person employed in maintenance of both the South West and South Wales Region sports turf outside the UK. and the South East Region. We will also attempt (Incorporating International Course Manager and Next Steps to visit some of the Section events and will try International Member). to keep members advised of our plans through Members can obtain a copy of the proposed the Bulletin Board on our website. By the time 7 Affiliate Member Constitution upon request from the following that you read this I will have started a discussion Any person who does not come within the sources: forum on the Bulletin Board where I will respond provisions of categories 1-6 above. to Members as openly as possible. • Headquarters I have detailed, in the section on the right, (Incorporating Associate and Corporate categories of • Regional Administrators the main proposals for the revised membership membership). • Section Secretaries Categories that form part of the draft Constitution. • Any member of the Board of Management In the Board’s opinion the Association must accept 8 Honorary Member • The Members’ area of the BIGGA website that change is inevitable if BIGGA is to develop. At the discretion of the Board of (Downloadable Forms) We are all aware of the changing face of golf and Management any persons recognized unless we are proactive in managing the change as having contributed in an outstanding If you wish to discuss the contents of the then we are in danger of having to contract. Your manner to the Association or profession. document then please do not hesitate to contact Board needs your support please think carefully * notes in italics are to clarify changes to the present either myself, a member of the Management about the consequences of not giving it. structure
Greenkeeper International 25 TEAM WORK AND TEAM BUILDING By Melissa Jones FEATURE
When Head Greenkeeper, Richard As they are in charge of the operation and Three members of the Rudding Park greenstaff Hollingworth, called to say his team costs, the greenstaff have the benefit of being able are currently studying for NVQ’s and have a tutor were about to put their newly acquired to change things, if needed, as they go along. from Myerscough College, Preston visit them every skills into action and complete a four weeks to assess their work and give feed back project on their parkland course at WORK BASED LEARNING on their progress to the Head Greenkeeper. Rudding Park, I was eager to meet the Greenkeeper, David Pinder, as part of his team and check out the plans. Rudding Park prides itself on investing money NVQ Level 3 in Sportsturf, has to complete a The greenstaff commenced work on a new and time into training its staff. construction job and gain experience of planning, hole at their parkland course in September. “The whole ethos here is that everybody ordering, getting quotations and quantifying. “Building the hole is a way of helping our should be able to do everything. This allows you Therefore, this is the perfect opportunity for him greenkeepers to use the skills they are acquiring to have flexible staff, if anyone is off sick or has to put his new-found skills into action. through their studies,” explained Head Greenkeeper, an emergency there are no problems. We have Richard. 16 year olds joining us and within a space of six LEARN AS YOU EARN Building in-house the greenkeepers will be months they have been shown strimming, mowing able to construct the hole to the standards they tees and greens, cutting fairways etc, etc. Within NVQs and Apprenticeships are designed want with no corner cutting. The staff will also be six months we then have a member of staff that for employees in the industry who wish to gain able to view the construction from a greenkeeping can do nearly everything,” said Richard. competence in their operations and gain a broad and players point of view – as they are all keen It’s very much the same with education and understanding of Sportsturf Operations. golfers. They will be involved in all the decision study at Rudding. They are ideal for greenkeepers in employment making processes.” “We push our staff on to cultivate their as they are delivered in the workplace using knowledge, improve their personal skills and qualified, industry experienced assessors, and PLAN OF ACTION: the golf course. Their personal development is course content can be tailored to suit the needs key to us – the more motivated our greenstaff, of each individual student/workplace. • End of August ‘08 – areas have been marked out the happier they will be.” Tutorial times are agreed at suitable work for the hole and green. Greenstaff have begun The greenstaff are very much into team building times and all observations and assessments to chop down trees, while being sensitive to the and bonding, they go out en mass once a month take place while staff complete their usual work environment and only removing those that are to play golf, and check out other courses. activities. diseased or dead. “Everyone gets on with everyone,” enthused Achievement of a nationally recognised • September ’08 – construction started. Richard. qualification at NVQ Levels 1, 2, 3 or 4. • October/November ’09 – seeding (if the weather “It’s more of a profession for them than “Work based learning is more appropriate to our is good). just cutting grass. It’s not a 9 to 5 job that just surroundings and works best for our staff. Rather • April ’09 – seeding. generates income, it holds a genuine interest for than be in a classroom, Andrew Kenworthy comes • April/May ’10 – completed and open for play. each of them and is a career.” from Myerscough every four weeks to assess the
26 Greenkeeper International Rudding Park greenkeeping team are:
Richard Hollingworth, Head Greenkeeper David Pinder – College student NVQ Level 2 working towards Level 3 Danny Millar – NVQ Level 2 Robert Hilton – NVQ Level 2 Karl Walker – College student NVQ Level 2 James Kelledy – College student NVQ Level 2 Brandon Stanford – Currently applying
for NVQ Level 2. Commencing college FEATURE course Spring 2009 Liam Williamson - Currently applying for NVQ Level 2. Commencing college Head Greenkeeper Richard Hollingworth. course Spring 2009
USEFUL COLLEGE CONTACTS:
Myerscough: 01995 642294 www.myerscough.ac.uk
Writtle: 01245 421858 www.writtle.ac.uk
Part of the plans for the new hole. Askham Bryan: 01904 772277 students’ work and works, more or less, one to one of it and can actually SEE what is happening and www.askham-bryan.ac.uk with them without any distractions. We are able to the consequences etc. They are looking more at monitor and assess the greenkeeper’s progress the science and asking questions such as: What Brooksby Melton: from seeing the lecturer. We can plan jobs so that fertiliser do I need to apply to get the best out of 01664 850850 their job sheets criteria are met and they can use the plants? What cultural things can we do to stop www.brooksbymelton.ac.uk every piece of equipment,” explained Richard. this disease instead of spraying a fungicide? The greenstaff’s personal development is key “Matters and problems with construction Elmwood: to Rudding Park: are discussed as a group and I am explaining 01334 658856 “If the staff are motivated they are happier as we go along with the hole construction. The www.elmwood.ac.uk in their work,” said Richard. team are beginning to understanding the depth “Because the staff are physically doing the job of greenkeeping and golf course management,” Guildford College, as they go along, they seem to be getting more out concluded Richard. Merrist Wood Campus: 01483 884000 www.guildford.ac.uk
Hadlow: 01732 853261 www.hadlow.ac.uk
Plumpton: 01273 890454 www.plumpton.ac.uk
Warwickshire: 01926 318285 www.warkscol.ac.uk
Reaseheath: 01270 613242 www.reaseheath.ac.uk
Oatridge: 01506 864800 www.oatridge.ac.uk Left to right: David Pinder, James Kelledy, Brandon Stanford, Richard Hollingworth, Robert Hilton, Danny Millar and Karl Walker.
Greenkeeper International 27 The Bigga Training & Development Manual, sponsored by John Deere, is an invaluable tool for everyone working within the greenkeeping industry.
The BIGGA Training & Development Manual FREE USE FOR MEMBERS
This online manual provides users with the information they need on recruitment, induction, training and career progression using video clips, written information, downloadable documents and useful web links.
A valuable membership benefit the manual can be accessed via the BIGGA website on the Education, Jobs’ and Members’ areas. Simply log in using your surname and BIGGA membership number on the Home page.
Designed around a theme of 18 holes users can gain access to training records, job specifications, job descriptions, sample contracts of employment, appraisal forms and details of continuing development.
How to access the BIGGA Training & Development Manual
1. Go to the BIGGA website www.bigga.org.uk 2. Click on the Members area, the Jobs page or the Education page and click on the BIGGA Training Manual link. 3. Enter your login details and select the BIGGA Training & Development Manual from the left hand menu. 4. The Training Manual will load and the user can click on Enter the Site to view a welcome video or can select 1–9 or 10–18 on the top menu bar. 5. You can progress through the manual hole by hole or go straight to the hole you wish to view. You can also skip to holes 10–18. 6. When you select a hole you will be presented with a window that explains what that hole is about. You can then select from the bottom tabs, video or sub-text (downloadable documents and links). 7. When clicking on a downloadable document it will automatically open in your default word processor. This can then be amended, updated and saved to your computer’s hard disk or printed and filed in your personnel files. HEALTH & SAFETY SERIES NOISE INDUCED HEARING LOSS RAISING AWARENESS FOR GREENKEEPERS By Herbert Barker FEATURE Over the next few months Greenkeeper International will be working in conjunction Difficulty in understanding speech. with vibration testing services Fivesquared to discuss the implications of Hand Arm Vibration (HAVS), Whole Body Vibration (WBV) and Noise. Loss of high frequency hearing can also distort Number two in the series is Noise Awareness, discussing the measures that sound, so that speech is difficult to understand, greenkeeperes can put in place to prevent a loss of hearing. even though it can be heard. Hearing impaired people often have difficulty detecting differences OVERVIEW shouldn’t be ignored. It is a sign that continued between certain words that sound alike, especially exposure to noise could cause permanent words that contain S, F, SH, CH, H, or soft C sounds As with last month’s article, Hand-Arm vibration, damage. because these sounds are in a higher frequency the European Commission introduced legislation Permanent damage can be caused immediately range than vowels or other consonants. ‘harmonising’ noise levels in the workplace for by sudden, extremely loud, explosive noises. all member states, and gave each state three The majority of hearing loss, however, is usually Tinnitus years to effect this. The UK ‘version’ became gradual, due to prolonged exposure to noise. It law in the form of the ‘Control of Noise at Work is only when damage caused by noise over the Hearing loss is not the only problem. Tinnitus Regulations (2005)’. years combined with normal hearing loss - due to (ringing, whistling, buzzing, or humming in the Many clubs have implemented noise ageing - that people realise how deaf they have ears) may also occur. This condition can also lead management for greenkeepers, while others become. Hearing loss from prolonged exposure to disturbed sleep. have done little, or decided that it doesn’t affect is usually incurable. Sufferers from any symptoms of hearing loss them and have ‘shelved’ any action. Many tools, machines, and processes used in should initially report their symptoms to their This article is designed to give a brief overview industry can produce noise levels likely to cause supervisor, so that if required, appropriate health of the problems of Noise Induced Hearing Loss hearing damage to anyone within the vicinity of surveillance can be initiated. and the solutions. the noise source and in some cases, those some distance away, by reflected noise. WHO IS AT RISK? NOISE LEVELS FOR GREENKEEPERS It is safest to regard regular prolonged use of any tool or machine causing loud noise as Those whose jobs require regular frequent Our research has shown that some, but suspect. use of noise producing tools and equipment by no means the majority of golf clubs, have As a general rule, noise may damage your (hand-held or ride on), or in the vicinity of these implemented best practice management systems hearing if you have to shout over background noise machines, are most at risk. for controlling noise exposure in their golf clubs to make yourself heard, the noise hurts your ears, These occur in industries, including: and more specifically their greenkeepers exposure makes your ears ring, or you are slightly deaf for levels. several hours after exposure to the noise. • Road and railway construction/maintenance Noise can be a difficult subject to grasp, with Hearing loss can be caused by factors other • Construction numerous different types of hearing protection than noise, but noise induced hearing loss is • Forestry/Gardening/Greenkeeping available what is the best for your greenkeepers different in one important way – it can be reduced • Foundries and which type will offer the correct level of or prevented altogether. • Light and heavy engineering protection. During our recent research we found Loud noise can damage the hearing of young • Mining and quarrying that some golf clubs offer their staff different people as easily as the not so young. • Stone masonry types of protection, some golf clubs leave it to the • Wood working greenkeepers themselves to choose which type HOW DO I RECOGNISE IT? they prefer to use, but, more importantly, is the WHAT CAN I DO ABOUT IT? hearing protection offered or chosen the correct Prolonged loud noise exposure affects the tiny type and suitable for the job? hair cells in the inner ear which send electrical The ‘Control of Noise at Work Regulations signals to the brain. Once damaged, these cells (2005)’ puts obligations on employers to assess, WHAT IS IT? no longer respond to sound and so hearing control, and manage noise exposure in the decreases. workplace. Hearing loss caused by prolonged or regular The challenge is to determine which information exposure to loud noise is a widespread recognised Loss of hearing at higher frequencies. is correct and current. This can be confusing. To problem affecting many workers. protect successfully your workforce from Noise Hearing loss can be temporary or permanent. When hearing impairment begins, the higher Induced Hearing Loss it is vital that employers Temporary deafness is often experienced after frequencies are often lost first, which is why people have an effective Noise Management System to leaving noisy places, such as a club, or party. with hearing loss often have difficulty in hearing - Assess, Measure, Monitor, Control, and Manage Although hearing recovers within a few hours, this the high pitched voices of women and children. any noise risks.
Greenkeeper International 29 Harrogate Week has a new event for 2009 Non-members welcome ...The Social Night at the Majestic Hotel, Harrogate FREE Casino FREE Games Chips provided by BIGGA Bucking Rudolph Saloon Bar ShootOut Prize for the winner! Pinball machines Golf Challenge Twin Driver Sega Rally One armed bandits Ski Machine Table football Pool table Pacman Las Vegas-style Space Invaders Showgirls ...plus many more.
Drinks Promotion All for £25 Riggwelter beer (including meal!) £2 per pint! The Social Night Tuesday 20th January 2009 To purchase a ticket, call BIGGA on 01347 833800 (7pm until 10.30pm)
HW_09 SOCIAL NIGHT NOV.indd 1 31/10/08 11:47:02 Employers are obliged to provide information human ear can detect, which is 0 dB, to over 180dB, There are many types of hearing protection and training for employees to ensure knowledge of the noise at a rocket pad during launch. on the market, and employers should ensure health risks, health surveillance, noise management Decibels are measured logarithmically. This that the protection supplied is suitable for the systems, safe use of equipment, and awareness means that decibel intensity increases by units highest noise level that may be present for the of noise problems in the workplace. of 10, so each increase is 10 times the lower particular job, and employees are trained in fitting figure. Thus, 20dB is 10 times the intensity of the particular type used. Assess 10 dB, and 30dB is 100 times as intense as 10 dB. As a rough guide, an increase of 3dB doubles Selecting hearing Protection The first stage is assessment – “Do I have the intensity. a problem?” Ideally select a protector so that daily exposure This can be achieved with a simple questionnaire Frequency Weighting (A) & (C) is reduced to between 80 dB and 75 dB at the asking the present workforce whether they are ear. Avoid protectors resulting in less than 70 dB suffering from any symptoms of hearing loss. To address the way that the human ear at the ear - this is ‘over-protection’ and can cause The responses to the questionnaire will responds to sounds of different frequencies, ‘isolation’ of the operator. determine the next stage which is Health measurement of noise is given a weighting to Hearing protection is now available marked FEATURE Surveillance, involving audiometric testing. correct for this. This weighting is known as an ‘A’ with an ‘SNR’ number (Single Number Rating) Potential employees should be questioned weighting and measurements are expressed as to indicate the degree of attenuation provided on previous work which may have entailed noise dB(A). Impulse, or high intensity short duration by the protector. from power tools; and leisure activities which may sound, is measured similarly and classed as involve high noise levels. ‘Peak’ levels. Peak levels are also ‘weighted’ and MONITOR, CONTROL AND MANAGE expressed as dB(C). Health Surveillance The legislation set lower values for noise levels Daily Noise Exposure Level when it was implemented in April 2006. Employers are obliged to provide Health It is not only intensity of noise that can produce Surveillance for any of their workforce using Daily Exposure Lower Action Level 80 dB(A) hearing loss, but also the length of time exposed equipment producing noise of 85 dB or over to to that noise. During noise measurements, an prevent symptoms appearing or existing symptoms In practice, this means that workers exposed average noise level (Leq) is produced and this is from becoming worse. Noise Induced Hearing Loss to noise at this level, up to the Upper Action level, used with the time exposed to that noise, to produce is incurable and if no precautions are taken then who determine that hearing protection would be a Daily Noise Exposure Level, (L EPd ). symptoms will usually get worse with time. beneficial, can request such protection; must be If this noise level is the only noise that workers Specialist health surveillance may be necessary issued with it, but it is not mandatory to wear it. are exposed to, then monitoring and control of for employees with hearing loss symptoms, A Lower Action Peak Level of 135 dB(C) was noise levels becomes relatively simple and this will so they can be assessed as to the severity of also introduced. be the workers’ Daily Level. If, however, workers hearing loss. are exposed to several different noise levels, then Daily Exposure Upper Action Level 85 dB(A) each of these (along with time exposed) must Noise Levels of Equipment be calculated. Using suitable formulae, these In practice this means that employers must individual totals are combined to give a Total Sources from which employers can obtain issue suitable hearing protection to their workforce Daily Noise Exposure Level which is compared noise data for tools, or machines are: and this protection must be worn at, (or above) against the Action and Limit Levels, to determine this level. if workers are at risk and what appropriate action • Manufacturer’s Literature It should, however, be noted that issuing hearing to take, if necessary. • Equipment Suppliers protection for users should be considered in line There are several methods in use to manage • Internet databases with the Regulations, to prevent hearing damage noise exposure, but the simplest is a system whereby • Research Organisations – but should not be regarded as a permanent noise values can be converted into ‘points’ (using • Trade Associations solution but only as an interim measure whilst suitable formulae) and the tool or equipment is • HSE other procedures to reduce noise are considered ‘tagged’ with this information. • Vibration Consultants and implemented. The operator simply has to note the number • Measurements in the workplace An Upper Action Peak Level of 137 dB(C) was of points on the tag, and multiply by the time used also introduced. (while noise is produced) to determine how many Of these, the most accurate tends to be points have been used on each separate use of Measurement in the workplace, which gives noise Daily Exposure Limit Level 87 dB(A) tools or equipment. levels for YOUR tools or equipment operating There is a ‘daily’ maximum number of points, under YOUR working conditions. In practice this means that whatever type of and as long as this is not exceeded, then the Having obtained noise levels under working hearing protection is issued, the noise reaching operator will not exceed his daily noise level. conditions, employers should determine the highest the wearer’s ears (underneath the protection) This is an effective, real time, management noise producing tools, machines, or processes must not exceed this level. system, in use by many of Fivesquared’s clients – and attempt to re-design the job or process to A Limit Peak Level of 140 dB(C) was also including local authorities, public utility companies, eliminate the use of these tools in the processes. introduced. large construction companies, and several golf This may not always be possible, but should be greenkeeping departments. the long term objective. Hearing Protection Article written by Herbert Barker Noise Measurement & Definitions The main types of hearing protection are: – Technical Manager • ear muffs – which completely cover the ear. Fivesquared Decibels (dB) • ear plugs – which are inserted in the ear – Vibration Management Solutions canal A Division of Earlsmere ID Systems Ltd Intensity of sound is measured in decibels (dB). • semi-inserts – which cover the entrance to www.5sqd.co.uk The scale runs from the faintest sound that the the ear canal 0800 848 8052
Greenkeeper International 31 FEATURE
LIVING ON THE EDGE Scott MacCallum travelled all the way to the eastern edge of England to a golf club which has a history of producing fine greenkeepers.
North Foreland Golf Club couldn’t be welcomed back by his home provider. works I’ve got to take them to another course to much closer to continental Europe if it Dan has been Course Manager at North Foreland see one in action.” tried. Just outside Broadstairs, in Kent, since 2005 and has not regretted the decision he North Foreland has an enviable record of and set on a cliff top, the club boasts made in taking the job for one minute. producing high quality Head Greenkeepers, among some of the finest views to be found “When I looked at the club I could see the them Peter Wisbey. Peter spent 22 years at the anywhere – “A view of the sea from huge potential. For one thing it’s built on chalk club, then spent a number of years in Portugal, every tee” is the club slogan. North which is the best thing to sand – some would before returning to the post of Courses Manager Foreland had a Lookout Post during the say it’s better than sand,” said Dan, in his soft at Woodhall Spa with the EGU. Duncan Kelso, First World War which was permanently Irish accent. Course Manager at Kings Hill and Steve Byrne, manned for four years. “We are on greens all year round and we at The Wisley, both worked under Peter before And just to reinforce the fact that the course haven’t got a single drainage pipe on the whole becoming successful Course Managers in their is perched on the edge of England and closer to course. When we stripped the first bunker for own right. mainland Europe than most of Britain’s populations renovation I asked where the drainage trench Dan worked under both Duncan and Steve and centres, Course Manager, Dan McGrath, finds was, and was expecting to find shingle, but the it was they who pointed their young protégé in the that when he ventures onto the 13th green he guys said they’d never seen drainage here and direction of their former proving ground. gets a text message welcoming him to Belgian had no experienced in how to install one. When “I worked at Fota Island, under Steve Byrne Telecom! When he heads a little inland again he’s I’m showing them how a herringbone system straight from college and gained experienced of
32 Greenkeeper International FEATURE
North Foreland’s reservoir working at an Irish Amateur before going to the Maidstone to Surrey to be nearer my Crown Golf but saying that the volume of golf has increased. Old Head for the grow-in,” recalled Dan. job and it was as we were filling boxes that the We have 1100 members and over 40,000 rounds At the age of 19, and hearing of another grow-in call came through. My in-laws were packing a a year,” he said. project, this time with Duncan Kelso at Kings Hill, van, expecting to drive up the M25, and I had “The fescue doesn’t like verticutting but at in Kent, Dan took the brave step for a young lad to tell them that we’d be going in the opposite certain times of the year the rye was getting very and crossed the Irish Sea for a new life. direction.” woody so we needed something to lift it up so we “Modern grow-ins are brilliant and are the Since arriving at North Foreland Dan has went for verticutting which was good in one way best thing to learn how a golf course works,” he become more admiring of the club. but which was having a negative effect on the explained. “You couldn’t buy this site,” he explained. fescue. It was a Catch 22 situation. It was good He left Kings Hill in 2003 and joined Crown “It has a good name, is known within the history for rye but not much good for the fescue which Golf, for a short spell before the job at North of the game and was an Open Qualifier and really we’d overseeded. Foreland was advertised. Both Steve and Duncan only needed tweaking around the edges.” “So we decided on daily brushing to lift up encouraged him to put in for it. He identified that the turf was good – indeed the rye without removing it. That’s what we’ve Not having been with Crown Golf for long, Alistair Beggs, of the STRI, recently said that North done for the last two years – using a drag mat Dan was a little apprehensive about applying Foreland had the best fairways he’d seen in quite every morning. for another job but he did so and was invited some time. The one problem was the greens “I’d say we’re winning the battle very for interview. which were a combination of rye, meadowgrass slowly.” “I basically went for the interview for the and bent. Among the other tweaks, since he took over, experience and felt that I had nothing to lose. “It’s a combination that is notoriously difficult was to take a look at the staffing and the working That’s when you are most relaxed. It all went well to manage,” said Dan, whose first purchase on practices of the greenkeeping team. and a day later they called me and offered me the arriving was a Wiedenmann. “I wanted to freshen things up a bit and job,” said Dan, recalling some good news which “We can pencil tine, top dress and roll and change a few of the structures. For example, the caused a few logistical problems at home. the golfers don’t even realise we’ve been in. We’re guys had been going out cutting the greens, then “We were in the process of moving from blessed with the machinery we have nowadays, coming in for a cup of tea, going out for their next
Greenkeeper International 33 job and then coming back in for lunch. I wanted suited to the work, then send them to either to design the system and put the work out to them starting at 6am, actually working on the Hadlow or Merrist Wood Colleges,” said Dan, tender while the club chose to appoint Dan to course at 6, and I needed to know who could who revealed that he had 127 applicants for one project manage the work and appoint a series buy into the new practices – who was on side trainee position. of contactors to undertake the various aspects and who wasn’t. Everyone had the same chance “Nine times out of ten it has been successful of the project. to impress and, interestingly, it was the younger and we get guys who are keen to take advantage “We decided that we wanted a borehole and guys who left the club and the older ones who of a second chance. You find they have worked in a reservoir to take away the reliance on mains are still here. offices or factories and want a total change.” water and earmarked an area of ground to the FEATURE “I’m absolutely delighted with the motivated In addition to the fine 18 hole test of golf at left of the 8th hole for the reservoir.” and loyal team I now have.” North Foreland there is one of the finest short One company undertook the trenching and Dan has a policy of recruiting people from courses to be found anywhere, which enables laid the pipe; one dug the reservoir; another put the local area and has employed many who have many people to hone their short games or discover in the lining while another drilled the borehole. been made redundant from their previous jobs whether golf is going to be for them. There was also an electrician contracted. and are looking for a second chance. Out on the course the biggest project which “We saved quite a bit of money overall and even Dan sees a huge advantage in taking people has been undertaken in the last few years was a more by installing the sprinkler heads ourselves who have had no previous experience. new irrigation system to replace the 34 year old in-house, which was brilliant for our guys who got “They haven’t been tainted by low quality version, which drew from the mains and which a chance to do it. The pipework was all there and training so if they carry out jobs to a poor standard, leaked constantly. they had to put on the swing joints and then the and continue to do so, it’s my fault, not the fault “We’d repair one leak and 20 metres down the heads themselves.” of anyone who has trained them before. line another leak would pop up and it was always One problem emerged when an archaeological “For the first six to 12 months we train them on a Bank Holiday that it went wrong!” dig found some remains and a shelve had to from scratch in-house to find out if they are An Irrigation Consultant was brought in be left in the reservoir floor so as not to disturb
34 Greenkeeper International anything but they ended up with 850,000 gallons smothering the native grasses. of capacity. “Working with Kent Wildlife and with the “They found a spear head and a piece of backing of the STRI we are now three years into the pottery, which, between you and me, looked like programme and the results have been amazing. something from IKEA!“ It involves using a flail mower and scarified with The irrigation project was started in November, all the cuttings being collected. This is done on a 2007 and completed at the end of April, 2008. rotation cycle and the material is composted.” Dan found it a tough but rewarding period – 14 Dan has immersed himself in the area and hour days, and available and around whenever thoroughly enjoys the quality of life that working FEATURE the contractors were on-site. at North Foreland has afforded him. “But now I have an irrigation system that I “It’s great for my wife here, while our two know inside out because it was done from scratch. kids absolutely love it. We just live 200 metres The best thing we did was to get the borehole to from the beach and when I get home from work feed the reservoir and the reservoir to feed our I meet the kids and a few minutes later they’re storage tank so if the reservoir pump goes down swimming in the sea. I walk to work and I walk we still have the borehole which can go straight home. I don’t have a car. As of six months ago I to our tank. If the borehole goes down we still now do have a truck for work but I keep it on site. have the mains.” There’s just no point in taking it home.” Another on-going project is chalkland grassland Having joined the long line of talented regeneration. greenkeepers at North Foreland Dan is lapping “The site had been taken over by ivy, due to up the experience, even if he has to go through Dan McGrath no management in the long chalkland rough and Belgian Telecom to tell everyone about it.
Greenkeeper International 35 MAKING THE
FEATURE ‘APPLIANCE OF SCIENCE’ SIMPLE
Scott MacCallum visited Scotts’ Levington Research Station and learned just how much goes into producing the products you use on the golf course.
We all like things to be straight “Scotts is an extremely innovative company. metre golf greens, one built to USGA guidelines forward and get irritated when they We make a huge investment in research and and the other a traditional push up green, as well become even a little bit complicated. development across the world and right here in as other areas which replicate the various areas For example, we love it when we the UK at Levington. The development of a new on a golf course. switch on our computer and everything product can take many years, from the initial stage “The greens aren’t the best in Europe but boots up perfectly, but when there of identifying a need moving through the chemistry they’re not meant to be. We use them to test is a little glitch and it doesn’t work to testing and registration,” he added. our plant protection products for example, to instantaneously we turn into Mr Angry, Scotts was launched in 1868 when an American measure how effective they are at preventing and particularly if we are left hanging on a soldier, Orlando McLean Scott, left the Union Army treating turf diseases. Our greens are managed premium rate helpline. and embarked on a new business venture with and maintained in a way that enables us to test It’s the same on the golf course. You want the mission statement, “Farmers need, and shall those products in natural conditions,” explained to put an application on the course as part of a have, clean, weed-free fields”. OM Scott made its Dave Steward, UK & Ireland Marketing Manager, turf management programme, or to counter a name as one of the America’s leading distributors as we strolled around the impressive facility. disease which may have developed, you want to of horse-drawn farm equipment before adding a “The greens are large because we split them know that everything is in place to enable you to farm seed business to its portfolio. into three and use them on a three year rotation to do just that. You also want to know that the action In 1907 Dwight Scott, his elder son, identified give the trial areas time to recover,” he added. you are taking is going to be effective. just how important the garden lawn would become There is also an area which has been overseeded The Scotts Company, a BIGGA Golden Key in American culture and began offering grass with weeds – more expensive than high quality supporter, prides itself on using cutting-edge seed by mail order and in 1916 the company grass seed, would you believe – so prototype technology to produce effective products for use received an order for 5,000 pounds of Kentucky herbicides can be given a genuine challenge. on the golf course, and making life as simple as Bluegrass from one of the first golf courses to Among greenkeepers, Scotts is probably best possible for its customers. open in the States – Brentwood-in-the-Pines, on known for its fertilisers such as Greenmaster and “We only develop a product if we are sure it Long Island, New York. Sierrablen. The company is at the forefront of is going to improve on what is already available The UK business unit of Scotts Professional controlled-release fertiliser development and the or if it’s a new addition to the product portfolio, was formed in 1991 and is based in Ipswich. Its key roles of its scientists is to produce coatings one that is going to make a real difference to the research station, unique to the UK, is located which react in certain ways to specific temperatures end-user” explained UK & Ireland Sales Manager, a few miles away in the village of Levington. It and soil conditions. The Levington soil is high Nick Martin. covers 7.1 hectares and boasts two 2,000 square quality which is great in normal circumstances,
36 Greenkeeper International FEATURE
but to ensure fertiliser trials are not distorted by was sprayed with the promise that it would have “We see tremendous benefits in being involved. a soil rich in nutrient the Trial team - there are 15 noticeably greened up within three hours. Looking at some of the past winners they are people who work at the Research Station - have Not being able to resist a sneaky peak, we superb ambassadors for the game of golf in stripped an area and replaced the soil with a had a quick look 45 minutes later and there was showing just how much expert conservation and sand mix which is virtually nutrient-free. A small a definite difference in the sprayed patch and the environmental work goes on. There is an amazing garden shed to the side of one of the trial areas area around it. This was more pronounced when amount of diverse wildlife on a golf course that contains a £30,000 piece of reverse osmosis we did return after the full three hours. you wouldn’t get if the golf course wasn’t there equipment which, aside from something you’d Walking around the Station you can’t fail to and managed in an environmentally-responsible expect to find in a Tardis, lowers the electrical be blown away by the vivid colours and smells of manner,” said Dave. conductivity of the borehole water. That way, any some of the test plants but the experts are not In addition to environmental impact, efficacy improvements are purely down to what is being distracted by this gardening explosion they are has been at the forefront of the minds of all tested and not from any of the existing nutrients more concerned by objectively marking each plant leading chemical companies. With so much in the soil or water. to see how it measures up against its peers. attention being drawn to the game of golf and In addition to the turfed areas there are The investment in Levington is huge because European-wide restrictions on chemicals, much greenhouse areas and flowerbeds as the Station product testing in the UK is tightly controlled by research goes on to provide the most effective is used for the testing of Scotts’ consumer and the PSD. products at the lowest application rates and often ornamental horticulture products as well as those “All tests are carried out to the required replacing older products which complied with for the turf market. Indeed, testing on plants like regulatory standard so that products can be older regulations but which have been overtaken poinsettia and cyclamen can amplify any pros and registered when required. Scotts regards compliance by more advanced chemistry. cons of a test more than a test on a particular with legislation as a minimum requirement,” Keen to promote the responsible use of grass type, so there are cross over benefits to explained Dave. pesticides, Scotts has sponsored the Amenity be had from trialling such an extensive portfolio The trials, in addition to discovering whether Forum’s ‘Check Your Sprayer’ campaign launched at one site. Scotts is sitting on a new wonder product, also at Saltex. We visited the area being used to test the allow testing to see what application rates are “We promote integrated pest management company’s new seed range. optimum. Modern day pesticides, herbicides, solutions. Sometimes a chemical is not the best “We acquired the rights to the Tee to Green fungicides and the like require much lower doses option. It is just one of the tools in the kit that range and have also been developing our own than their predecessors to produce the same, or should only be used when it’s needed. That is varieties which originally came from Oregon. These significantly better results, because they used the the advice we give,” explained Dave, who added contain salt and drought tolerant varieties. We’re latest, modern active ingredients in their formulation. that their entire sales force are BASIS and FACTS carrying out extensive testing in European and UK That can only be beneficial for all. qualified to give advice. conditions and have been extremely pleased with All Scotts’ development, production and “If you have a healthy plant it is much less what we have seen so far,” said Nick, as he took operational processes are scrutinised to assess susceptible to disease, so it doesn’t need as much another opportunity to study the test plots. environmental impact and continually improve the outside help.” Scotts’ product development always has the company’s environmental profile. Key to the structure Scotts has no doubt about the benefits of being job of the end-user in mind. Greenkeepers who of the process is ISO 14001, the international a BIGGA Golden Key Supporter and contributing are under pressure to have their course looking specification for environmental management to the Learning and Development Fund. perfect prior to a tournament and to maintain its systems which outlines the requirements for “We’ve always supported education and health and appearance despite difficult winter establishing an environmental policy. As well as training not just in the golf world but also in the weather conditions look to applications of iron its own corporate responsibility, Scotts is keen to sports and the growers side of our business. as a useful tool. To highlight the benefits of promote environmental awareness among end- Just as our scientists are working hard to find the site, Trials Officer Roger Page, undertook a users and has been a key sponsor of BIGGA’s Golf solutions to everyday problems on the golf course, demonstration of Effect Iron, a product which was Environment Competition along with Ransomes greenkeepers’ learning must continue, so we’re launched at Saltex the following week after four Jacobsen, Syngenta and, as of this year, Golf pleased to support BIGGA in its ongoing provision years in development. A two metre square patch Monthly. of training and education to the industry.”
Greenkeeper International 37 FEATURE
There is no denying that trees can make a huge difference to the look, feel and playability of a course. A good mix of young and mature specimen trees is common on more recently constructed courses. Here it can pay to consider managing the younger trees. Judicious pruning mixed with re-planting and even complete tree removal needs to be thought through. Although it is not easy, try and think how the trees will impact upon the course in 10, 15 and 20 years time. KEEPING THE BITS YOU DON’T MOW TRIM By James de Havilland
Managing hedges, trees and non-mown Start mixing a work cocktail that includes length units with a reach to the tip of the saw to areas is all part and parcel of running height, ropes, chainsaws and ladders and you just under 3m. The second are telescopic units a modern course. With increased have the ideal ingredients for a trip to Casualty or that may extend to perhaps 4.50 to 5m. The saw pressure on labour and budgets, worse. Thankfully, modern risk assessment rules element, incidentally, will typically comprise a bar getting this work completed can be these practices out. Some courses will also have of 10, 12 or possibly 14”. Professional backpack a headache. But less so if you think trained chainsaw operators who know how to lop engine units, with a hydraulically powered saw, ahead and have the right kit to make branches at height safely. But what about those are also offered. These go up to 6m, but are not maintenance easier. circumstances where an overhanging branch cheap at around £950 plus. Trees really do make a massive contribution to needs tackling and there is no-one on site with Telescopic pole saws are likely to be more the golf environment, but they do bring with them the training to deal with it? versatile but also more expensive. A high quality a number of management issues. Leaves and pine It is here where a pole saw or power pruner rigid pole saw will be priced from £400, with needles in autumn, a great thirst for water in dry can be useful. Used with care, these tools can telescopic units carrying a premium of at least periods and hazards associated with low, dying remove a substantial branch without damaging £50 to £100. Reach, incidentally, should not be or fallen branches. Managing trees may not be the tree and, more importantly, with far less risk confused with actual cutting height. For safety, at the top of your agenda, but the influence they to the operator than using a chainsaw. the pruner needs to be operated at 60 degrees have ensures they cannot be ignored. Most chainsaw and brushcutter manufacturers to the branch. This is to allow the latter to fall and One area that often needs attention is dealing produce what is essentially a brushcutter power not land on the operator. with low or dangerous branches. In most cases unit and pole with a chainsaw head in place of Pole saw two-stroke engines tend to span 20 these may be fairly easy to get at. If the branch a blade or line trimmer. Indeed a number of to 30cc and 0.6 to 1.5kW output. In most cases, can be sawn off from the ground using a bow manufactures can supply multipurpose units a body harness is supplied to help support the saw, then great. The chances are there will be with hedge trimmer, brushcutter, chainsaw and weight of the tool when moving it around, but a few health and safety issues to worry about. More other attachments. support harness may also be supplied for use in realistically, lopping off a branch will certainly There are essentially two main types of work. Dedicated pole saws will be supplied with a involve getting up to the branch. dedicated pole saw on offer. The first are fixed basic shoulder harness aimed at providing limited
38 Greenkeeper International FEATURE
A tractor mounted flail hedge cutter will produce a clean cut on regularly maintained hedges, with the capacity to reduce a hedge to a manageable height even if it has been left uncut for several years. As a rule, the thicker the material a flail has to cut, the less attractive the finish will be. Pictured unit typically used by an agricultural contractor. Great for course boundary hedges.
support. This is fine for occasional use, but it will close to the trunk but retaining enough branch added importance when it comes to using an not be as effective as the more complete harness bark at its base to grow over and heal the ‘wound’. extended unit; a heavy, poorly designed trimmer designs that can be supplied by some manufactures In practice, getting a clean cut from a pole saw will soon fatigue the operator. as an option. These bear the weight of the engine is not easy simply because the saw element is a Dedicated extended reach hedge trimmers and allow the operator to pivot the saw from the long way from the operator. will come with a choice of double or single sided attachment point and onto the branch. Capacity wise, most pole pruners will tackle a blades and cutting widths of up to about 0.60m A big advantage of this system is that it spreads 40cm diameter branch if the saw chain is sharp. or 24 inches. The length of these trimmers will the weight of the pruner across both shoulders. Tackling a branch of this size is not necessarily vary, but as a guide 150 to 250cm is typical with When dealing with higher branches, however, the recommended, but it does show engine power retail prices ranging from £400 to £500 for a saw will still need to be raised out of the support is not the key issue but a good sharp chain is dedicated unit. A longer blade will weigh more to provide the necessary reach. the key. and may not be more productive. Working a pole sole is straightforward for thin, As a rule, it is always better to prune lightly lighter branches. These can be cut in one action and leave a cleanly cut truncated large branch. Multi-purpose units from the top down. Thicker and heavier branches In most cases it is best to leave cutting branches need cutting with care. It is best to cut back towards right back to the trunk to a trained arboriculturist, Arguably the best option to look for is a unit the trunk progressively in sections to reduce both particularly on specimen trees. that has interchangeable tools; these can include the weight and volume of material falling. This will a saw, trimmer, brush and light cultivator, the help protect the tree and prevent a long branch Extended hedge trimmers latter possibly being an ideal tool for fluffing up a swinging back and clouting the operator. bunker. Such units are priced from around £400 For a clean cut at the trunk, larger braches Although it is stating the obvious, the two key and make a versatile choice for a golf club. should be undercut by a third before sawing through elements to a good hedge trimmer are the power from the top. The aim is to produce a clean cut unit and the blade. But a vital aspect that turns that allows the ‘wound’ to heal quickly and prevent an effective tool into one that is easy to use and disease entering the tree. As a guide, keep the cut not over tiring is good ergonomics. This assumes
Greenkeeper International 39 FEATURE
The Stihl CombiSystem is available with four different CombiEngines, Powered by a 23.6cc two-stroke engine, the 6.2kg Echo and the eleven CombiTools. These include a choice of hedge trimmers, PPT2400 power pruner from Countax has a telescopic shaft a pruner, cultivator and lawn edger, a grass trimmer, brushcutter, that will reach from 2.74m to 3.83m. The 12” cutting unit scrubcutter, powered sweeper and bristle brush. can reach up a further 1.59m when fitted with an additional With the shaft extended using the HT-KM extension, the power extension. Tools like this are great for dealing with hard to pruner Pole Saw makes working on low branches safe and easy. reach branches.
Is your course subject to a TPO? These types are as follows: A TPO can date back to 1949, so you may 1. Individual: can be applied to an individual not be aware that tree in your care are protected. Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) are made under the tree. This will be less likely on any course that has been Town and Country Planning Act 1990 and the Town 2. Group: can be applied to a group of individual trees sold within recent years but if in doubt it can pay and Country Planning (Trees) Regulations 1999. A which, together, make up a feature of amenity to check. TPO legislation has altered in recent TPO is made by the local planning authority (usually value but which separately might not. years and continues to be reviewed. a local council) to protect specific trees. 3. Area: a type of TPO not normally made now but Although it is possible to make TPOs on any still common, as formerly this type was used Are trees within a Conversation Area trees, in practice they are most commonly used in frequently. It covers all trees in a defined area automatically covered by a TPO? urban and semi-urban settings. A TPO is to protect at the time the order was made. trees for the public’s enjoyment. It is made for the 4. Woodland: covers all trees within a woodland Conservation Areas are designated by local ‘amenity’ of the tree or woodland, and this can area regardless of how old they are. authorities for building and landscape include its nature conservation value but more TPOs are public documents and can be conservation. The definition does not cover often means its visual amenity. However, it does inspected at the local planning authority’s office, or nature conservation or trees in the broadest mean that if a tree is not visible or accessible sometimes online. Attached to the TPO are usually sense. To work on trees within a Conservation from a public place - even slightly - a TPO will not a schedule and a map. The schedule shows the Area, however, it is necessary to give notice in usually be enforced. type/s of TPO which make up the order, and often writing to the local authority six weeks before TPOs can be placed on any trees including gives details of the species of trees affected. A map undertaking any work. Some local authorities hedgerow trees but not hedges themselves. gives the location of the TPO and shows individual may place a TPO upon a tree subsequent to There are (presently) four types of TPO, although trees or areas as appropriate. How a TPO map and an application having been made to remove or any one Order can contain any number of items the Order itself are interpreted can be a bit tricky. work on the tree. which can be of one or more types. If in doubt, it really pays to seek advice.
40 Greenkeeper International
Dedicate A4 2007 28/10/08 09:52 Page 1
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Bayer Environmental Science, 230 Cambridge Science Park, ALWAYS READ THE LABEL : USE PESTICIDES SAFELY. Milton Road, Cambridge CB4 0WB Dedicate® contains 200g/lt (18.2% w/w) Tebuconazole and 100g/lt (9.10% w/w) Tel: 00800 1214 9451 Fax: 01223 226635 Trifloxystrobin.(MAPP 13612). Dedicate is a registered trademark of Bayer. www.escience.bayercropscience.co.uk © Bayer Environmental Science 2008. YOUR DRAINAGE ON YOUR GOLF COURSE By Geoffrey Davison FEATURE
Neat one-pass slit installation by sand injection Fine sand slits at close centres
Sports-turf drainage in general, and golf Until the causes are correctly diagnosed, the to change Soil Texture it is possible and very course drainage in particular, has come most effective cures cannot be established. beneficial to create and maintain a good open Soil a long way since the simplistic days of Structure. Really effective and frequent aeration is “just putting some pipes in wet areas”. essential, not only for drainage but also for healthy Question 2. root growth and good quality turf. Before making decisions about any drainage problem ask three questions and make sure that WHAT EXACTLY ARE THE MOST (d) Surface Run Off. On bare soil, surface run- the answers are made with full knowledge of up- EFFECTIVE REMEDIES? off from sloping ground is obvious. On grassed to-date technology. Only by having this approach areas it may not easily be seen, but it still happens can the best results be achieved at the lowest Answer 2. All the eight possible causes listed and must be intercepted before it reaches the possible costs. above have to be taken into account: playing surface. Swales, ditches, pipe-drains with permeable backfill to the surface or combinations Question 1. (a) Existing pipe drains. Measures such as of these may be required. repairing broken pipes and clearing blocked WHY EXACTLY DOES AN AREA HAVE A outlets are sound maintenance. It may be that (e) Sub-Surface Seepage. Many thousands of DRAINAGE PROBLEM? the existing pipes are working but that there are tonnes of water are held within the sub-strata of too few of them. However, if the pipe system is nearby, or even distant, higher ground. This water Answer 1. All wet ground is the result of rainfall, generally mal-functioning the best and most cost is under great pressure especially when it is deep recent or perhaps much earlier. There may be one effective course may be to leave it to make what- within hills. It may take hours or even centuries or more reasons why, at times, this precipitation ever contribution it can and to install a new well to make the, sometimes long, journey, but if it causes some areas to be unduly wet: designed pipe system into the area. can force its way out, it will do so. Wet areas can be formed at points where this underground (a) Rainfall in excess of the existing pipe (b) Soil Texture. Very few soils have a texture water has travelled through the sub-strata and drainage capacity. which provides ideally high permeability. The come to the surface. Deep drains are needed to (b) Soil Texture not sufficiently permeable. progressive addition of suitable sand does help intercept this flow before it reaches the playing (c) Soil Structure compacted. but basically it is a case of having to accept that surface. Pipes in the actual wet areas may not (d) Surface run-off from higher ground. the soil texture is what it is! be the answer. (e) Sub-surface seepage from higher ground. Sand slits can provide an effective soil by-pass (f) Surface “Saucers”. It is surprising how (f) “Saucer” surface contours. route for excess water. often it is not appreciated that some wet areas (g) Intensive use – eg. Pathways. are actually surface “saucers”. Surface water (h) High water table. (c) Soil Structure. Although it is very difficult cannot escape and the slopes feed it towards the
42 Greenkeeper International FEATURE
Profound aeration creates countless millions of tiny cracks and fissures Trenching to install a pipe drain
One pass narrow sand slitter Rapid, one-pass installation of small sand slits at close centre. This is often the case on greens! Adjusting areas will usually need pipes to be at not more of a soil with a texture which has a particle size the surface contours to provide run-off points is than 5m centres. distribution of not less than 75% sand can provide an effective remedy the desired high permeability. Good fertile soil The overall drainage capacity can be further may not be highly permeable, but it can grow (g) Intensive Use. Severe compaction on enhanced by crossing the pipes with sand or good strong turf; let it do that and impose the limited areas such as pathways may require very sand/gravel slits @ 90degrees to the pipes and required permeability by installing a well designed intensive drainage, or perhaps the turf could be @ 1m centres. Wider spacings are proportionately intensive slit drainage matrix. replaced by other material. less effective. Such major slits need to be 40mm to 50mm wide by 250mm to 300mm deep. (c) Soil Structure. The value of creating and (h) High Water Table. This may be a feature Tested good quality back-fill is essential. Gravel maintaining an open soil structure cannot be of the location. Lowering the level is possible but or granules can be used but only if covered by a over-emphasised. It is hugely beneficial to root expensive. A professional survey may be required. topping of good sand. Gravel or granule back-fill growth and grass health, and absolutely essential Individual wet areas can be isolated by deep ring up to surface level is not cost effective. It is soon for good drainage. mains, sometimes with an automatically controlled in-filled by fines and ceases to function. It is also pump. With the water table height reduced within a playing hazard and detrimental to the texture Yet this prime requirement rarely receives the ring, normal drainage can be installed. of the top-soil. the necessary regular and effective attention. The occasional application of a (perhaps outdated Where new pipe systems or sand slits are and not very efficient) aeration machine totally Question 3. to be installed, always bear in mind that the key fails to achieve what is required. The objective of to modern drainage technology is “intensity”. aeration is to increase the ratio of voids-to-solids HOW EXACTLY CAN THESE CURES BE Fewer drains or fewer slits cost less but are less within a soil’s structure. In order to “make space” IMPLEMENTED? effective. The design of new pipe drainage really for this to happen, an aeration machine must needs to be part of a comprehensive plan which either take out cores or, slightly and evenly, lift Answer 3. These points apply to fairways includes other measures such as sand slitting, the surface. Machines which merely make holes and rough. “Greens” are dealt with separately as ditching, etc. Sound professional advice about or slits in the turf by poking the surface really another item at 4 below, as also is “Installation” this may be good value. achieve very little. at 5 below. (b) Soil Texture. Sand top-dressing is beneficial to (d) Surface Run-Off. Inspections of individual (a) Existing pipe drains. If the existing drains the playing surface but it takes regular applications areas readily show where the water is coming are sound but too far apart, new drains can be over many years for it significantly to change from. Adjusting the surface contours by temporally installed to increase the drainage capacity by the texture, and therefore the permeability, of removing the turf and re-shaping the formation bisecting the spacings. On fairways, problem the root zone material. Only a suitable depth grades can create wide and mow-able interception
Greenkeeper International 43 FEATURE
Narrow trenching for slit drains Neat clean trenching
swales. It may be possible for these to lead to Localised areas such as part, or perhaps all, of for a club to own at least the one essential small discharge points, but in some instances ditches a fairway can be dealt with by installing a suitably specialist machine. A compact tractor mounted and/or pipe drains with permeable fill to surface deep and continuous outer ring drain. Unless a trenching machine which is capable of excavating level may also be required. pipe from this can lead to a lower outlet, it will be larger trenches for pipe laying, and also neatly necessary to construct a deep chamber which is cutting out narrow trenches for sand slits, is (e) Sub-Surface Seepage. It may be difficult in evacuated by a submersible pump controlled by always useful on a golf course. Trenching is often some cases to know exactly where the seepage is a float switch. The evacuated water will have to also needed for irrigation and other work apart coming from. Trial holes may be required to establish be fed into an outlet which discharges outside the from drainage. both the direction and depth of the flow. ring main. Normal drainage can then be installed within the ringed area which now has a lowered Conclusion. Interceptor pipe drains need to be appropriately water table. Where larger areas require major deep and backfilled with suitably permeable works, a professional survey and expert advice Pipe drains can take away excess water. back-fill. It also may be necessary to install a is required. Sports-Turf Drainage requires that this water full-depth vertical water-proof membrane on the must penetrate down to the pipes much more lower side wall of the trench before backfilling Installation rapidly than the slow rate which is permitted by it in order to arrest flow which is occurring at permeating through soil. various depths. Who does the work? There are only two options. The soil has to be (f) Surface Saucers. Turf can be neatly cut Major schemes are best carried out by proven replaced by a sandy root-zone mixture or it has to and placed to one side while formation levels specialised contractors. be by-passed by an intensive sand slit matrix. are slightly re-shaped to form one or more run-off points. With the soil cultivated and firmed, the They have the required machines and Modern Sports-Turf Drainage is not as turf can be re-placed immediately so that there experienced staff. Good contractors will charge complicated as brain surgery but it has now is only minimal interruption to play. fair but competitive prices. Major contracts will become a fairly complex technology. Scheme require substantial outlay. All quotations must be design and specification are crucial. Time spent (g) Intensively Used Areas. Depending on made to the same detailed design and specification. in considering the various points outlined in this where it is situated, there is a choice between turf Any bid which is much lower than the others is article will help to achieve the best results at the with very intensive localised drainage, or replacing always suspect and best not accepted. lowest costs. the turf with some other pathway material such as woodchip, finely chipped stone, gravel, etc. Where funds are in short supply, a lot can be Geoffrey Davison is always happy to have achieved by carefully planned in-house operations. entirely complimentary telephone discussions on If turf is the choice the drainage pipes would This is especially so on smaller areas and where any aspect. His number is 01568 797024. need to be crossed by closely spaced major sand skilled green-keeping care is required to provide slits which in turn may need to be crossed by a neat finish. Most drainage contractors really do minor slits @ 250mm centres. not want this smaller type of work. Contact Details
(h) High Water Table. Where parts of, or even A long term in-house programme can be North Staffs Irrigation – 01785 812 706 entire, golf courses have been built on areas with implemented over a period of years as and when Speedcut contractors Ltd – 01865 331 479 a high water table, there is always the temptation the green-keeping staff have the time available. Turfdry – 01283 551 417 to wish that they had been built somewhere Work need not take place when ground conditions Duncan Ross – 01257 255 321 else! However, they are where they are are unsuitable or when it would interfere with the Philip Dixon Contractors Ltd and can be very pleasant courses. playing schedule. – 01772 877 289
A high water table can be a difficult, but not Suitable equipment can usually be hired, Please also see Page 61 in the Buyers Guide insuperable, problem. but it is much more convenient and less costly section for further information
44 Greenkeeper International Turf to Aerate? Easy Does It
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Lo-Call 0845 026 0064 www.jsmd.co.uk AFT>GREENKEEPER INT 19808 aw:qx 19/8/08 16:11 Page 1
MULTI USE 45 TRAILER COST EFFECTIVE DRAINAGE • Loading hoppers and sand slitters The AFT 45 allows for quick and neat • Trench filling to the side and front trenching work as and when needed, • Topdressing at the lowest cost and with minimal • Filling bunkers and stockpiles disruption to play. • Fingertip controls AFT Trenchers Ltd Tel: 01787 311811 Fax: 01787 310888 E-mail: [email protected] www.trenchers.co.uk
Greenkeeper International 45 finish. www.etesia.com www.dennisuk.com In time for the 2009 cutting season, Etesia Etesia season, cutting 2009 the for time In Plenty Plenty of power is essential for any rotary For customers who prefer not to use diesel, the diesel, use to not prefer who customers For Leading British manufacturer Dennis has PEDESTRIAN ROTARY operator operator to adjust the mower’s travel to suit conditions. prevailing is launching the PRO51X - a rugged professional rugged a - PRO51X the launching is 51cm pedestrian rotary designed to withstand use. commercial of rigours the the in this With performance. top give to mower forefront of their minds, Etesia has chosen an power to range professional Honda’s from engine the – PRO51X the GXV160. This commercial power ample produces unit OHV air-cooled grade to deal with the toughest of grass, yet still has some in reserve. The machine is self-propelled and has variable forward speed allowing the Petrol Premier offers the opportunity to purchase to opportunity offersthe Premier Petrol an gives which mower heavyweight quality, top a striped enviable expanded its range, introducing a petrol engined petrol a introducing range, its expanded mower, cylinder Premier renowned its of version stadia, football clubs, sports with popular is which authorities. local and contractors EXPANDED RANGE EXPANDED
01788 811600 01788 www.bernhard.co.uk Bernhard & Company has launched a specially a launched has Company & Bernhard The new PTO Debris Blower comes in two Recirculating new the in feature models Three GET READY TO BE BLOWN AWAY tractor-mounted TV60RH. tractor-mounted selected selected range of new turf products featuring powerful Debris Blowers and Recirculating Turf Vacs. models, the and DB2700 DB3600. Completing the line up is the new powerful engine-driven Debris Blower DB1800, which can be by towed vehicles. most utility range Vacs Turf – the TV40 and TV60RE, which can be by towed most utility vehicles and the
the
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46 Greenkeeper International 46 Greenkeeper New ProductsNew with a sliding patented collar mechanism and fits fits belt. or bag player’s made easily to golfers enabling grip, putter the of end the secured is It bending. without pitchmarks repair down easy and inexpensive robust, practical, be would golfers. all for use to Paul Simpson, who was concerned at the damage the at concerned was who Simpson, Paul consistently caused to greens by unrepaired either were players many that Aware pitchmarks. bending found or marks their repair to reluctant an end to pitchmark damage for good. for damage pitchmark to end an idea by West Berkshire Golf Club Professional, an innovative product that they claim could mean could claim they that product innovative an FAREWELL TO PITCHMARKS FAREWELL
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The footwear you wear on the golf course the reduce you help easily to claims Gripclad benefits, Rolawn has produced a new Trade Product Product Trade a new produced has Rolawn Containing information on the Company’s The Product Guide Trade is available from the Syngenta recently launched the new fungicide, new the launched recently Syngenta
CONTROLLING THE HAZARD risk of slips and trips on sleepers, footbridges and footbridges sleepers, on trips and slips of risk any other walking surfaces simply by choosing GRP anti-slip. may may give all weather performance but do they sleeperstimber wet on slipping from you prevent wire. the chicken on tripping or NEW PRODUCT GUIDE GUIDE PRODUCT NEW Guide. expanded expanded range that in addition to turf and and seed lawn improver, soil includes now topsoil, fertiliser key each product. Depots... Rolawn action. action. The exciting introduction of Instrata will see turf for over 25 years and will include the most tackling activity, comprehensive all three-way stages of the life cycle of a broad-spectrum of turf diseases. Instrata, boasting unique contact and systemic NEW FUNGICIDE
www.broadwoodintl.co.uk www.broadwoodintl.co.uk 01794 388881 01794 Now marketed through Broadwood International, Broadwood through marketed Now 2.4m,1.8m, in available currently is ProLine The Tom Cox, the Tom author of three books: Nice Founder of The Society of Secret Golfers, Bring Me The Head Of Sergio Garcia! is ROLLER MOWERS the Wessex ProLine Series of Professional Roller Roller Professional of Series ProLine Wessex the Mowers, are proving a solution for the sports turf, local authority and amenity contractors market. demonstrations on-site with versions 3.0m and available. BRING ME THE HEAD OF SERGIO GARCIA! available from all good book shops. all from available Jumper, which was shortlisted for the 2002 National2002 the for shortlisted was which Jumper, Educating Award; Newcomer Best Club Sporting of Pop. Tribes The Lost and Peter Cox’s latest Tom book tells the story of how he golf. himself to devoted
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NEW DEEP TINE AERATOR coring plus the proven Flex-blade Core Collector Collector Core Flex-blade proven the plus coring pass. one in collect and core to Attachment quick change tines for solid, needle and hollow- and needle solid, for tines change quick Deep Tine Aerator model 30D 6150. 6150. 30D model Aerator Tine Deep no no difficulty giving a really accessible and hugely enjoyable pastime enjoyable hugely and accessible really a women. and men both for pursue to always-helpful and would-be golfers who need the guidance as as guidance the need who golfers would-be and to which path Alliss’s to humorous follow. but at regular golfers whose skills have deteriorated deteriorated have skills whose golfers regular at golf, how to maintain a consistent swing and how and swing consistent a maintain to how golf, to game, what equipment is necessary to buy and and buy to necessary is equipment what game, drawings, he describes the basic techniques of who to contact for lessons. With the aid of the aid line With lessons. for contact to who camaraderie and instant therapy. therapy. instant and camaraderie to why golf is the perfect perfect the is golf why to air, fresh scenery, breathtaking - adults for game compelling reasons as as reasons compelling as the answer to middle- to answer the as discontentment. aged practical book, Peter Alliss Peter book, practical golf promote to out sets many many years. In this new thoroughly but anecdotal audiences audiences for the BBC and ABC in America for entertaining entertaining huge TV THE GRUMPY OLD MAN MAN OLD GRUMPY THE GOLF – THE CURE FOR SHARPEN MOWERS FOR GREENER GRASS
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Jobs! Jobs! Jobs! Not just for Greenkeepers A complete range of turf industry jobs are available on www.bigga.org.uk With over 14000 visitors to our job pages every month You are sure to attract the quality of candidate required Make sure that you get the right person for the job - call Kirstin today on 01347 833832.
I wish to thank the team at BIGGA for their help “and advice in placing our advert on the BIGGA website. The good response to the advert will allow us to employ someone who we feel is ideally suited for the job. Tony Hawes, Course Manager,” Potters Bar Golf Club
48 Greenkeeper International Whats your Number?
Name: Stephen Bernhard work alongside them.” Company: Bernhard & Co Position: Managing Director/Chairman – or What changes have you seen during your time in the industry? Chief Bottle Washer?! “Two of the most significant changes I have seen in my time are the lower heights of cut and the importance of green speed. They have had a big WHATS YOUR NUMBER? How long have you been in the industry? impact on golf course maintenance practices throughout the years.” “44 years in all, where over 35 have been specific to golf and turf.” The GrassWhat doGrou you like to do in yourp spare time? “I love to paraglide in any mountain region around the globe.” How did you get into it? “My family has always been in the horticultural Where do you see yourself in 10 years time? business. I started Bernhard and Company professional from“Above the a mountain,ground suspended up under my wing and watching the condors after having worked in our landscape business, circling with me.” running the design and turf side of things.” Who do you consider your ‘best friends’ in the industry? What other jobs have you done? “I have many in this industry, but John Malinson has put up with me “In this business, there isn’t much I haven’t for a long time!” done - mechanic, machine operator, tree mover, landscape contracting, nursery production, agronomy, greenhouse manufacturer and wholesale What is your lucky number? operations - all leading toward specialisation in our area of turf maintenance. “Don’t really have one but 7 will do.” I am a qualified international truck driverThe too.” Grass Group Pick a number: “55” What do you like about your current job? “It changes constantly - and I like seeing my staffprofessional grow, taking over more from Stephen the groundhas picked Stephen up Fell from Lindon to take part in next and more of the company. I have a brilliant team and I’m very proud to month’s feature.
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Greenkeeper International 49 HUMAN RESOURCES BIGGA’s Management Support series produced by Xact www.xact.uk.com
BULLYING AND HARASSMENT AT WORK they are required to do. In that context, one man’s strong manager is One area of workplace relations that has received increasing headlines another man’s bully and sometimes the dividing line between the two in recent years is the topic of bullying and harassment at work. Indeed, can become blurred. ACAS, the government sponsored employment advice service has even However, if you consider that you are the victim of bullying and/or prepared a leaflet on the subject. harassment in the workplace then you have a number of legal remedies As the title suggests, the terms ‘bullying and harassment’ are often open to you. In the first instance, however, we would always recommend used interchangeably but, of course, conduct may constitute bullying or that your first port of call, wherever possible, would be an informal harassment – not necessarily both. discussion with your manager. Often, the perpetrator is simply unaware Harassment is defined by the ACAS Code as “unwanted conduct of the affect they are having on the victim and an informal discussion affecting the dignity of men and women in the workplace. It may be can work wonders. related to age, sex, race, disability, religion, nationality or any personal However, if this does not resolve the situation, the club is required to characteristic of the individual and may be persistent or an isolated have a formal grievance procedure which is likely to enable you to raise incident”. The key is that the action or comment is viewed as demeaning the matter with the Greens Convenor and/or the Captain of the club in and unacceptable to the recipient. order to achieve a resolution. Most of the headings contained in the definition are unlawful conduct If that fails, as a last resort, you have a right to bring a claim in the under various pieces of UK discrimination legislation. employment tribunal for constructive dismissal as long as you have at Bullying is far harder to characterise but is again defined by ACAS least one year’s continuous service with your present employer. If your as “offences intimidating and malicious or insulting behaviour, an abuse claim is not of harassment on one of the discriminatory grounds listed or misuse of power through means intended to undermine, humiliate, above, then no qualifying service is likely to be necessary. denigrate or injure the recipient”. The leaflet then goes on to give a number We would, however, caution that you do not take this step without of examples too numerous to be repeated here due to space constraints. first obtaining expert legal opinion as to your prospects of success as Further details can be had from the ACAS website: constructive dismissal is notoriously difficult to prove in an employment http://www.acas.org.uk/index.aspx?articleid=797 tribunal. The trend in recent years has been for anyone who is subject to Finally, if your health suffers as a result of adverse treatment at work management they dislike or disagree with to claim they are being then you may have a claim for personal injury. Once again, you will need to bullied when, in reality, they are merely being asked to perform the job speak to a specialist solicitor if you feel you have a claim in this regard.
The Social Night An evening of fun and games
Las Vegas-style FREE Casino FREE Showgirls Games
Drinks All for £25 Promotion (including meal!) Tuesday 20th January 2009...7pm until 10.30pm at the Majestic Hotel, Harrogate
To purchase a ticket, call BIGGA on 01347 833800
50 Greenkeeper International In the Greenkeeper International brings you ‘In the Shed’, a puzzle page to keep you entertained when the Shed weather forces you in or for when times are slow.
CROSSWORD QUICK NINE-HOLE QUIZ
1 2 3 4 5 6 1. What is the oldest stroke used in competitive swimming? 7 8 2. How many mushrooms does a bar billiards table have?
9 10 3. What is the world’s largest legal bookmaking firm? 4. What is the most travelled sports team? 5. Who first scored a century and took 10 wickets in the IN THE SHED 11 12 same test match? 6. What year did Mexico City host the Summer Olympics? 7. Who did Bjorn Borg beat for his first Wimbledon title? 13 14 15 8. What football player was known as ‘the black pearl’? 9. What is the name of the white ball in snooker? 16
17 18
19 MONSTER SUDOKU
20 21 22 23 Fill in the grid so that every row, every column and every 4x4 box contains the numbers 1 to 9 and the letters A,B and C.
24 25 D 1 5 F 8 4 2 B 0 F 7 2 C E 9 B 1 5 E 6 B D 1 26 4 3 0 8 9 9 A 6 5 8 2 4 0 E 1 7 1 3 D F A 9 Across C F 7 D 1 Usually erroneous piece of lore passed on by word of mouth (3,5,4) 0 A 3 9 Cause to become hardened to the effects of something (5) E 9 2 10 Most avaricious (9) 6 7 F 8 11 Brazilian city whose name is the Portuguese word for “Christmas” (5) D C A 8 4 6 12 Casual - or hostile - meeting (9) F 8 7 A 9 0 B 6 5 3 D 13 Name often attributed to an earliest example of the bicycle (10) A 5 B C 4 15 Operatic piece, usually elaborate, for solo voice (4) 3 B 5 2 D 17 Metropolis (4) 9 1 8 D 2 6 3 7 5 A 18 In law, such evidence that is required to correctly establish a case
(5,5) B F 7 9 4 6 3 E (c) Daily Sudoku Ltd 2008. All rights reserved. 20 Series of fourteen books used in some but not all versions of the Old Monster Daily Sudoku: Sun 19-Oct-2008 very hard Testament (9) 22 Freshwater fish, also called rainbow fish (5) SUDOKU 24 Title (meaning “sign of God”) given to high ranking Muslim clerics (9) Fill in the grid so that every row, every column and every 9 box 25 Subsequently; looking for? (5) shape contains the numbers 1 to 9. 26 Musical with Nathan Detroit as one of its leading characters (4,3,5) D 9 1 5 0 F 8 A 4 2 6 C B 7 E 3 0 F 8 7 4 2 C E D 3 9 B 1 5 A 6 Down 3 E 2 6 B4 7 3D 9 5 A 8 12 4 C 0 F 1 Constellation which contains Rigel and Betelgeuse (5) 4 B A C 6 5 3 1 F E 0 7 D 8 2 9 2 Person who unnecessarily demands physical evidence of something 9 A B D F7 C 56 5 23 8 2 4 0 E3 1 7 before believing it (8,6) 6 1 3 4 7 E 2 D C F B 0 5 A 9 8 3 Dreamer, romantic (8) 5 C F 8 1 9 0 B A 76E 6 3 D 4 72 4 In golf, a score of two strokes under par on a hole (5) 7 2 0 E A 8 4 3 9 1 5 D F 6 B C 5 Expressionist masterpiece by Edvard Munch (3,6) 1 3 46 0 C 6 5 8 9E D F 9 A 27 7 5B 6 American author who created the frequently used Bourne character (6) E 5 6 9 D 3 7 2 B 4 1 A C F 8 0 7 Funds made available for new business enterprises (7,7) 1 9 B D C 2 E 1 A F 8 0 7 3 9 4 6 5 8 Engage in astronomy or be a woolgatherer (4-4) F 8 7 A 9 0 B 4 6 5 C 2 E 1 3 D 13 Card game also called chemin de fer (8) 9 7 4 6 A 7 5 3 2 B 1 6 0 C D E 8 9 F 4 14 Elevated stronghold - Greek word meaning “high city” (9) 8 6 E F 3 4 9 C 7 B A 5 2 0 D 1 16 Napping (3-5) 3 8 19 Furniture decoration which looks like gold but is made from brass (6) C 4 9 1 8 D E 0 2 6 3 F 7 B 5 A
21 Pale, blanched (5) 2 0 D4B 5 A F 7 61 924 83 6 3 C E (c) Daily Sudoku Ltd 2008. All rights reserved. 23 Site of 1917 WWI battle, also referred to as Passchendaele (5) Monster Daily Sudoku: Sun 19-Oct-2008 very hard
5 3 4 (c) Daily Sudoku Ltd 2008. All rights reserved. Daily Sudoku: Sun 19-Oct-2008 medium
http://www.dailysudoku.com/Greenkeeper International 51
6 5 4 3 7 1 2 9 8 8 1 7 5 2 9 6 3 4 2 3 9 4 8 6 5 1 7 4 6 3 2 9 8 1 7 5 5 8 1 6 3 7 9 4 2 9 7 2 1 4 5 8 6 3 3 9 6 8 5 4 7 2 1 1 4 8 7 6 2 3 5 9
7 2 5 9 1 3 4 8 6 (c) Daily Sudoku Ltd 2008. All rights reserved. Daily Sudoku: Sun 19-Oct-2008 medium
http://www.dailysudoku.com/ News from the Chief Executive
It is now 10 years since we moved into BIGGA HOUSE and as I reflect over those years I realise how so much has happened to change the Association and to change the industry in which we all work. Scottish Region - Ayrshire BIGGA has continued to establish itself as a key body within golf and through the development of closer working relationships it has grown to Hello everyone, hope you are all well and have not succumbed to pneumonia become an integral part of the management of the game. or any similar condition due to the ridiculous summer weather! Can’t wait Greenkeepers are at long last beginning to be recognised for their for winter as it has to be better than our previous weather, surely? professionalism and their value to the club and, while there is still much Went to the doctor because I thought I had that SAD (Seasonal Affective work to be done, I would ask you to cast your minds back and look at Disorder) but he told me I was just depressed because the weather’s how things used to be in the so called ‘Good old days’. crap? The Association has enjoyed a period of growth on the back of On the bright side, we had good weather and a great time meeting up the development of golfing facilities and its improved positioning has with the County Down Greenkeepers, at The Pines, on September 19, for enabled it to influence conditions of service and the general education our annual match, now in its third year. Although the recent wet weather of all greenkeepers, not just those of its members. left the course soft in places, the greens were firm and dry - a credit to However, the halcyon days of the early to mid 90’s are over and Duncan and his staff. golf is facing some serious challenges with a changing attitude towards At our third attempt the Ayrshire Section, lads prevailed 5 1/2 to 2 1/2. club membership, environmental pressures, the demand by the golfer The match was played in good spirit, as always, however, it was definitely for better value for money and latterly a sharp decline in the economy the spirits that prevailed later that evening! to name but a few. I just want to thank Duncan for the use of the course and facilities and There is no doubt in my mind that some greenkeepers will lose their his son, Bruce, and staff for the catering at the club. I also want to thank all jobs through redundancy and as long as the employer acts in accordance the players for making it such an enjoyable day, especially the lads traveling with the law then there is nothing anyone can do. I also see some golfing over from Northern Ireland. Thanks guys. I am already looking forward to establishments closing down over the coming years, there are simply defending the Shield across the water next year. too many golfing facilities in relation to the number of players. There is The following Thursday saw us at the Pines once more for the Autumn a drive by the game to recruit and retain golfers but in reality this is not Outing and Second and final leg of the Daval sponsored Harry Diamond having much effect. Jug. Numbers on the day, it must be said, were disappointing especially It seems a gloomy outlook for the next 10 years and ‘where do we considering we’d had a dry week and weather on the day was glorious. go from here?’ you might ask. I believe that there still are opportunities There was a great atmosphere in the club after the golf and I am sure those for BIGGA and that while there is no doubt that it is not going to be present had a good day. easy, I remain positive in my thinking both for the Association and for Alec really must learn some new jokes though! Only kidding buddy! its members. Again our thanks to Duncan, Bruce and the staff there for keeping the beers As you will read elsewhere in this issue of Greenkeeper International, and soft drinks (was still not feeling too good from weekend celebrations!) the Board has approved draft proposals on the inclusion of groundsmen coming and for serving up some delicious food. within the Association that will be put to the members at the AGM in January. Results were as follows: Harry Diamond Jug - M. Lothian, 64pts. 1.1. BIGGA has come from traditional roots from a very traditional thinking R. McBeth, Pines GC, 33pts; 1.2. R. Adams, Turnberry GC, 28pts; 1.3. S. industry, it must now think wider than golf and look at developing into Higgins, Ardeer GC, 27pts; 1.4. G. Morrisson, Largs GC, 27pts. 2.1. M. Lothian, the key body for those people employed in the Sports Turf industry. Turnberry GC, 31pts; 2.2. D. Gray, Pines GC, 27pts; 2.3. P. Tulloch, Irvine GC, Working with the Greenkeepers Training Committee, and in fact as 25pts; 2.4. G. Ross Royal, Troon GC, 24pts. part of its Board structure, we have made the greenkeeper education Trade Prize - Peter Boyd, BIGGA Regional Administrator. system the envy of many other industries, both in the UK and overseas, Recently, not for the first time, I have become aware that some members and have created a model that they strive to emulate. feel they get little or nothing out of their BIGGA membership apart from their As an example of this I am hoping that very soon we will be in monthly magazine, which on the whole doesn’t justify their subscription. While a position to announce the launch of an industry specific national I can understand why some may feel this way, I believe one must look at the qualification that carries the logos of the Association, the GTC and its bigger picture to Membership. The management of BIGGA from HQ, Board constituent members. of Management, Regional Administrator’s, through to Section Secretaries If the members approve the change in the Constitution then is there and Committee member’s are, I believe, all working for the advancement any reason why BIGGA and the GTC, working with key industry partners, of greenkeepers by showing the profession to be pro-active in its approach could not develop Aldwark as the National Centre for Sports Turf? to among others, educational and environmental issues. The Association During the coming weeks you will be reading and hearing much more shows the greenkeepers’ commitment and allows us to take our rightful of the proposed changes to YOUR Association and I ask you to consider place as an integral part of the golf industry. very carefully the consequences of not embracing a change that your I like to think of membership in terms of those immortal words of John Board sees as being in the best interest of you and your professional F. Kennedy who stated, “Ask not what your country can do for you, but, what organisation. can you do for your country!” Your support is vital to the future success of your industry, think back to yesteryear and then hopefully realise that we must move with Bye for now the times and embrace change not resist it. Denis Tweddell ([email protected]) 07939 104701
52 Greenkeeper International AROUND THE GREEN
me well Jimmy pulled extremely namely Section was
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nice from things was Until next month next Until Dooner Mike 2nd Class: Winner: Chris Yeaman, West Linton, nett - 67 (Russell Cup). Cup). (Russell 67 - nett Linton, West Yeaman, Chris Winner: Class: 2nd Clayton, Stuart Trade: 72. – nett Seahouses, Holmes, Alastair Veteran: I had the privilege of golf playing with our Chairman, Stuart Ferguson, Guest Winner: Derek Winner: Bond Brunton BIH. Trade Kevin Snr. First staff his of two that say to day other the Dale from call phone a received I at held been have will AGM the news, Section this read you time the By Kevin Geddes, John Winners Pin: the Nearest follows: as are results The Thank you to West Linton Golf Club, Chris, and his staff, the course was course thestaff, his and Chris, Club, Golf Linton West to you Thank It Administrator, Regional BIGGA our to you thank big a least, means no but Last held was Tournament Golf Charity Wood Graham the 19, September On Spowart, Chic McDonald. Sweep: 1. Matty Smith 2. Ryan 3. Stott Hugh Spowart. Mclatchie 4. Kevin Macormack. Jim 2. McLatchie 1. Veterans: McLatchie. Trophy: Committee 3. Geddes John 2. McLatchie Surpise 1.3: Class McLaren. Mark Apprentice: 1:1.Class Sharp. Paul 3. Spowart Kevin 2. Stott 2:1.Ryan Class Lester. Josh 1.Scratch: Wood. Patrick 3. Fowler Kevin 2. Kirriemuir at Headgreenkeeper Nett (Best Trophy Main Mark the of winner The Sadler. Neil 2. Smith Matty clockwork his as well as share my had Thompson George reckon I although received, own! With the Golf Event and Silent Auction which a followed, substantial his family. and Graham for raised was of money amount North he that says He ‘veteran’. word the of use my about meeting last the at up is not either a are You veteran. or you aren’t. There are other names that could be used such as’ senior’ or ‘old timer’. What do you think he should could I maybe and it about me with touch in get to free Feel to? referred be printable! are if they edition, the next them in include their rekindled had Patrick and George if him asked I married. getting are Joanne that say, however did He no. said he unfortunately, but relationship may Section, the of behalf On engaged. got had Smith Matthew and O’Neill I congratulate you and fore warn you that the whole Section is expecting done. Well invite! an quite were there hopefully but there wasn’t I jealous I’m House. Meldrum day The outing. Kirriemuir the for response good a had we as faces, few a agree. all will you think I fantastic, was Kirriemuir at up: up: Stuart Ferguson, Dundas Park, Ratho nett-72. Park,Murray, 3rd: Tom nett-72 Runner up: Robbie Murdoch, Dundas Park, nett - 75. 3rd: Colin Irvine, - 72 nett Muirfield, 76. – nett – Macleod Benn Newcomer: Best Bowl). (Daval 72 – nett Scotlube, Sherriff’s. Thos. Lauder: (Tiger) Ian Drive: Long Holmes. Alister Pin: Nearest Brannan. Tom Prize: The Booby guys. done – well condition excellent in modestvery a is he course, the on out shots golf new some me taught who rate! good a at golf lessons chap will give but Stavert. George and Dalrymple Jackie Neilson, Peter. out - thanks help to hand on who is always Boyd, Peter shotgun two with participated four of teams 52 of total A Club. Golf Dunbar at my from and participating those from understand I 2pm. and 8am at starts like went and organised well extremely was event the that observations own
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The much-delayed East Section Outing was held on October 9, at West West at 9, October on held was Outing Section East much-delayed The Bowl). (Watermation 79-12-67 Linton, West Yeaman, Chris Nett: Best Gordon Moir Gordon I am sure most thoughts have by now turned to renovation and winter winter and renovation to turned now by have thoughts most sure am I The results: Scratch: Mail, Kenny West Linton, 73pts (Stewarts During During the years I knew John he was the always perfect gentleman I start this month’s report on a sad note with the news that John Eadie, John that news the with note sad a on report month’s this start I Some of us from the area were fortunate enough to be invited to Castle to invited be to enough fortunate were area the from us of Some As I write this, the weather has at least turned drier if also a little Along with many other people in the industry, some of us were at Dunbar at were us of some industry, the in people other many with Along
1st Class: Winner: Keith Burgon, Goswick, nett - 70 (Thorntrees Cup). Runner Cup). (Thorntrees 70 - Goswick,nett Burgon, Keith Winner: Class: 1st Linton Golf Club, and the following report is courtesy of Tom Murray. report is courtesy the following and Golf Club, of Tom Linton Quaich). his wife, Anne, son, Colin, and daughte,r Lorna. Our thoughts are with them with are thoughts Our Lorna. daughte,r and Colin, son, Anne, wife, his time. this sad at who was well respected and liked by all who knew him. He is survived by 17 after short a 67. he was illness, 17 the former Head Greenkeeper at Bathgate Golf Club, died on September East it opens in July 2009. July in it opens owner, Stuart McColm, Chris Haspell and their team have made a fantastic a made have team their and Haspell Chris McColm, Stuart owner, when venue popular a very prove will it and grow-in and build the with job course there on one of their preview days. It will prove to be a stunning golf golf stunning a be to prove will It days. preview their of one on there course course with tremendous views over the Moray Firth. Mark Parsinen, the Stuart, near Inverness, at the beginning of October, for a game on the new new the on game a for October, of beginning the at Inverness, near Stuart, be some pictures on the website: www.biggacentralsection.org.uk www.biggacentralsection.org.uk the website: on be some pictures wasn’t should There hole. vertidrain or core hollow a down sand brush to having than coming from Portugal and having to close the course for a day, the operation the day, a for course the close to having and Portugal from coming immediately afterwards and leaves the surface fairly smooth. The sand has sand The smooth. surfacefairly the leaves and afterwards immediately to be kiln dried and we used a tonne per green. Along with the machines aerate high pressure into the greens, but in addition, sand sucked into the hole coming to Dryjects with contractors in hired we Andrews, St at Course, Strathtyum income is down, some clubs have decided to cut spending and contractors and spending cut to decided have clubs some down, is income work programmes. Following such a wet summer aeration is probably more probably is aeration summer wet a such Following programmes. work important yet I than have ever, heard stories of because how, green fee staff go about preparing the courses. courses. the preparing about go staff colder. At St Andrews, Carnoustie and Kingsbarns, the Alfred Dunhill Links Links Dunhill Alfred the Kingsbarns, and Carnoustie Andrews, St At colder. Championship Section The course was in excellent condition although needless to say, the central central the say, to needless although condition excellent in was course The starts they raised a considerable amount of money for Graham and his family. year ago and has been unable to return to work. Dunbar Golf Club organised Club Golf Dunbar work. to return to unable been has and ago year this day for him which took the form of a Pro/Cel Am with two shotgun Head Greenkeeper at Dunbar for many years until he had a stroke over a Golf Club on September 19 for the Graham Wood Charity Day. Graham was Graham Day. Charity Wood Graham the for 19 September on Club Golf Central Around the Green
over the 2 outings) with a combined score of 141 was Mr Robert Patterson Maxton. Trade prize - Jim Smith, Visitors prize - Peter Boyd, Apprentice prize of Royal Aberdeen. Well Done. - Andrew Orr. Well done to all the prize winners. The weather on the run up to the outing had been pretty miserable. In This year’s Norrie Whytoch Trophy was held over Auchterarder Golf Club fact, the day before the competition the course was closed. When we played and for the first time the West Section won - well done to the team Douglas the course on the Thursday it was in tip top condition, despite the terrible Macintosh, Brian Hillan, Allan Reid and Allan Syme. Well done to Archie
AROUND THE GREEN weather, so full credit to Jim and his boys for being able to put on a display Dunn and his team for the first class condition of the course, thanks to Peter like that for us. Can you call off the lynch mob now Jim? Thanks. Boyd for his hard work arranging the day and to Kenny Liddell, from Bayer, It has been brought to the committee’s attention that there are still for their continued support. a number of trophies missing. If anyone has any of the following trophies A first class day was had by all at the recent Graham Wood testimonial can they please get in touch with me on: 07813889374. The Toro Trophy, day held at Dunbar Golf Club. The Section would like to wish Graham and The George Hamilton Trophy, Trades Trophy and the Apprentice Trophy. his family all the best during his time of recovery a substantial amount was Thank you. raised on the day well done to all involved. It is on a sad note that I report the death of Gavin Cameron, who was On the education front we will be arranging a seminar for spring next an Assistant Greenkeeper at Royal Aberdeen for over 11 years. Gav left year with a range of topics, also a trip to Marr Hall to see how the course the club in 2007 to work in the oil industry. It was while working in Baku, has developed in the grow in. Azerbaijan, that he tragically died in September. He proved to be a very On the training front GOSTA training, situated in Glasgow, offers a wide capable greenkeeper and hard worker. He liked a laugh and was very quick range of courses to suit all areas of our market you can get in contact on witted with the general banter. His passion was “The Dons” and there were 01415563999. many a good debate in the bothy. The staff at the club were stunned to learn Well that’s all for now see you next month of his death and on behalf of the Section and the Royal Aberdeen, us boys pass on our sympathy and condolences to his family and partner, Kara. Fraser Ross You as members of the North Section can now read about our own news 07970366355 on the BIGGA website. If you put in your membership name and number and [email protected]. then go into the members page, look at the column on the left, there is a new section called Your Pages click on it. Then click on North for our Section and this will let you into our new site which Dale updates on a regular basis, Northern Region - North East it is full of information and pictures. Any news for the next edition please drop me a line. Hasn’t he done well - that’s James Leighton, formerly a work colleague of mine at Hexham GC - James who had worked under the supervision of Ben Brookes Head Greenkeeper, Mal Lathan, for nearly three years gaining his NVQ Murcar Links GC levels 2 and 3 before moving onto Slaley Hall. There he worked with then Course Manager, David Cuthbertson, who has since moved on to Rockcliffe Hall - I believe he had tried to persuade James to move with him but he had West declined the offer, as he wanted to stay at Slaley Hall to gain experience for the forthcoming seniors tournament. Along came Steve Cram as the new Well, still no change in the weather, it was disappointing that September’s Course Manager, gave James further training and the insight of preparing forecast was good but the warm weather didn’t arrive. for a major competition. A warm welcome back to Ronnie Myles who has returned north after Well it looks like its paid off, as James applied for a job after the Seniors, a couple of years working down south, Ronnie has taken up the post of with Wentworth GC, had the interview and accepted a job as Assistant Course Manager at Buchanan Castle Golf Club - the Section wishes you all Greenkeeper - he started there on September 29 - now that’s ambition for the best in your new post. you knowing that you are prepared to move away. He has followed in the footsteps of three other greenkeepers from the Section that have moved This year’s night out will be held at the Curry Karaoke, on Friday, south in recent years, those have been: Ed McCabe and Paul McDowell, both November 28. The price will be £25 per head, this includes a 5-course from Seaham, and Craig Handyside, from Gosforth. All I can say James is meal, karaoke and disco until 1am. Come along and have a great night, best of luck, and enjoy. tickets are going fast so please get in contact to snap one up, the venue is Well other news is that with all the rain we had many courses suffering in Elderslie Street, Glasgow. with flooding. Take Rothbury having five feet of water through the clubhouse This year’s autumn outing was held over Elderslie Golf Club, it was a and workshed, resulting in all their machinery becoming totally submerged and fantastic day with 45 in attendance. Jonathan Clelland and his team did a the likes of Arcot Hall, Ponteland, having been closed for days with flooding, fantastic job, as the weather the previous day was horrendous. and Tyneside having the same problems but only playing 16 holes as their Many thanks to the Captain and committee for the use of their course, 17th and 18th have been closed. I have never seen so much surface water we would like to wish you all the best for your centenary next year. Many on those fairways, the drains just could not cope and the pond at the 2nd is thanks also to the bar and catering staff, as the service was first class. I still a lake. Let’s hope the winter is going to be kind to us for a change. would also like to mention the west Section Committee for all the hard work Barry Wilson, from Stocksfield GC, rang me to say he had been involved carried out arranging these outings. in a accident while riding his scooter resulting in him being hit by a car The prize winners on the day were: Scratch - Allan Syme; 1.1 Callum and ending up with a broken leg. I told him to get in touch with the Legal Morrow, 1.2 Jonathan Clelland, 1.3 Gerry Bruen; 2.1 John Barr, 2.2 Sandy Helpline as by the time you read this he could be claiming monies for Brolley, 2.3 Colin Kennedy; 3.1 Kevin Cross, 3.2 Craig Drummond, 3.3 Michael being off work, although it’s not a great deal but it can work out quite a bit
54 Greenkeeper International AROUND THE GREEN
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The Stevens James [email protected] The next The golf next outing is our ‘Bring A Bottle Christmas at Day’ Cleveland at these events. all see you to Hoping news) with any 214879 (07831 Charlton Terry The Christmas tournament is only around the corner taking place this this place taking corner the around only is tournament Christmas The The Autumn Tournament The and Autumn SectionTournament AGM took place at Upton Golf Welcome informing headquarters from correspondence received recently have I good a have all you hope I month, this me from all is that Unfortunately Hello again North It’s Wales! at this time of year I wish I worked on Other Groundsmen the versus ‘Greenkeepers turfcare annual the is evening That notes it doesn’t seem two minutes since I was writing the last notes. the last writing I was since minutes seem two it doesn’t notes Sheffield Doncaster Golf Club and a fantastic day was had by all who attended. I would like to give a big thanks to all the Greenstaff at Doncaster for the courseexcellent they provided. The competition was won by Darren Coop. Darren. again done Well me that all Sections have been given a space on the BIGGA website. This I events. section of members inform to newsletter a as used be can space to you directing website the on links are There soon. space this update will please then page this on like would they anything has anyone If page. our me. contact to hesitate don’t December. in again all you to I will speak and November the Cleveland Section – we thank you! you! thank we – Section Cleveland the Thanks who us recalled chatted about some several topics. of Tony his tales about his time in greenkeeping - veryI told funny. him to write a book. We also put rights! to the world Golf December Club, off3. on Tee Wednesday, 10.30 until 11.30 with a maximum of 30 places. Please book a place with 695 Pembo on: 07791 6 is address His day. the before Ian to sent be must front up tenner A 768. Court,Rosewood Marton, Middlesbrough, TS7Cleveland 8QR. Ian will not accept on money the Be day! had warned! We a great last day so year get bottle! your forget don’t and now up Pay this year! there Quiz’ 7.30pm and games daft some questions, few a have also We through. way half you enjoy. and up turn Just of laughs. lots don’t don’t know who suggested that the forward way is to remove coniferous warmly them shake to like I’d but deciduous native of favour in plantations the throat! by posted be will results and day the on up write full a and 8 October on Club column. The Green’ December’s ‘Around in attended well normally is day this 3, December on Club, Golf Prestatyn at year North W a links type course, I personally am getting a tad fed up with going into work
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Jimmy Richardson Jimmy Adam Speight Adam 07739 319060 07739 Speaking of Rigby Taylor Speaking I of would Rigby like Taylor to sincerely thank Jamie and 1. Phil Hargrave ,of South Shields GC, (local knowledge?) 39 pts. 2. Mark 2. pts. 39 knowledge?) (local GC, Shields South ,of Hargrave Phil 1. The Section Autumn was Golf held Tournament at South Shields Golf I While on the golf front can I remind you all that this years winter golf While It’s Directors the
short played in a Section event. in a Section played Alistair Whitby, Lloyds Limited. Well done to you all. all. you to done Well Limited. Lloyds Whitby, Alistair his of behalf On day. fantastic already an to added this and them by provided Applegarth, of Rigby Taylor, was victorious in the Trade section just pipping pipping just section Trade the in victorious was Taylor, Rigby of Applegarth, and Ian Pemberton, Cleveland and GC, Ian Cleveland Pemberton, was the best on the Par 3 holes. Jamie the ‘Longest Drive; Richie Hood, Houghton-le-Spring GC, was ‘Nearest the Pin’ the ‘Nearest was GC, Houghton-le-Spring Hood, Richie Drive; ‘Longest the Cooper, South Shields GC. 3. Pembo. Ian Stuart, Seaton Carew GC, whacked GC, Carew Seaton Stuart, Ian Pembo. 3. GC. Shields South Cooper, too! Thanks go to the catering staff especially from Fat Boy SlimFat (Pembo). SlimFat Boy Fat from especially staff catering the to go Thanks too! follows: as were tournament Stableford of the straight Results complimentary with their comments about the whole course. Those of us it of plenty and quality top – food the with impressed very were dined who A good turnout of 18 golfers and everyone who was played extremely know that we always say that the greens were good as a matter of courtesy of matter a as good were greens the that say always we that know but the greens were fantastic. Many congratulations to Phil and the lads. course up for the ‘Experts’ the next day. I needn’t have worried as the weather the as worried have needn’t I day. next the ‘Experts’ the for up course on Club on October 1. I feared the worst as the weather on was the Tuesday horrendous and my thoughts were with Phil and the lads trying to set the Cleveland wishing Simon good luck in his new position. good luck Simon wishing his new in as Head Greenkeeper of Marsden Golf Club. I’m sure you will all join me in in me join all will you sure I’m Club. Golf Marsden of Greenkeeper Head as off at 10am. Can you please let me have your name and entry fee in plenty in fee entry and name your have me let please you Can 10am. at off week). a least (at time of and AGM will be held at Halifax Golf Club on Thursday, December 11, teeing11, December Thursday, on Club Golf Halifax at held be will AGM and Baxter, 2. Mel Guy. Nearest The Pin: Derek Chew and Dean Gosney. Dean and Derek Chew Pin: The Nearest Guy. 2. Mel Baxter, day. The winners were: Division 1.1 Dave Collins 1.2 Dean Gosney 1.3 Rob Rob 1.3 Gosney Dean 1.2 Collins Dave 1.1 Division were: winners The day. Gee. 2.3 Division Paul 2.1 Stewart Danskin. 2.2 Trowlesdale Frank Steve Glen 1. Trade: Christie. Ken 2.3 Colley Peter 2.2 Smith Richard 2.1 Division also thank Ed Carter, and the Scotts Company, for their sponsorship of the the of sponsorship their for Company, Scotts the and Carter, Ed thank also my sources were correct. A huge thank you to Phillip Taylor, and his team, team, his and Taylor, Phillip to you thank huge A correct. were sources my must I hospitality. great and course superb a for Alwoodley at everyone and heard that the course was playing very tough and looking at the scorecards the at looking and tough very playing was course the that heard Tournament was taking Tournament place at the fantastic Alwoodley Golf Club. I have right, snow in September. That’s bad, even for Scotland! If we are in the grips the in are we If Scotland! for even bad, That’s September. in snow right, some of it! seeing mind I wouldn’t warming, of global has begun. Did we even have a summer this year? I have just returned from returned just have I year? this summer a have even we Did begun. has a North depending how long you’re off also anytime spent in hospital you will be paid Around the Green
so get your booking forms in early! I am also sure Dave Parry will give us a course we can all be jealous of on the day. It’s normally at this time of year that Andy (Acorn) Cornes reminds people East of England that are staying at Harrogate to make sure of their room reservations as they might find that they’re sleeping under the stars if they don’t! Talking about Hello all,
AROUND THE GREEN Harrogate it has been suggested that the bus that the Section runs every Firstly, this month I have to mention something that I forgot to write year to BTME be changed slightly to either leave earlier, so we have a more about in last month’s magazine. reasonable length of time at the show, or even change the day to Wednesday On August 23, members of our Section were invited to go behind the instead of the usual Tuesday - member input as to your preferences to your scenes at RAF Cottesmore to watch the work done on the Harrier Jump local committee member. Jets. This was organised by Steve Hopkins who works on the aircraft as well We are very short on local news this month, so short in fact that I actually as looking after the 9-hole golf course on the base. The day began with a don’t have any at all! Please help me out with some local interest news for talk by a couple of pilots about the work being done out in Afghanistan, next month, email and phone numbers appear at bottom of this column. talking about what the conditions are like and the sort of missions they are involved in. This was followed by a tour of the workshops where Harriers are Pete Maybury 07756001187 [email protected] completely stripped down to their shell and rebuilt with new wiring, guidance and weapons systems. It makes taking cutting units apart look like child’s Johnny Evans Johnny.evans @tesco.net play! The afternoon consisted of 18 holes of golf played over the 9-hole course built on the base. Steve Hopkins had the course presented in excellent Midland Region - Midland condition and many good comments were received on the condition of the course especially with the limitations he has to work with. Our autumn event was held at Fulford Heath GC and despite the never- The golf was followed by an excellent meal served up in the Officers’ ending rain we have all had to cope with this year, the course was in fine Mess, where beer was also available for £1.20 a pint, bless Her Majesty fetal. Our thanks to Kim and his fine team, oh and Billy for producing the and her armed forces. course so wonderfully. The results of the day were: 1.M. Hughes. 2.D. Fellows. Many thanks go to Steve Hopkins and everyone at RAF Cottesmore 3.A. Foldes. 4. R. Beacham. 5. S. Scott. 6. L. Swann. 7. S. Thompson. 8. G. for allowing us in to visit and putting on a very interesting, informative and Turner. Our thanks to Campey’s Turf Care for sponsoring the main prize enjoyable day for everybody. table. Nearest the Pin: M. Hughes and Longest Drive: S. Thompson, thanks September 24 was the date of our annual match versus the Secretaries’ to Sherriff Amenity. Also thanks to Turners for refreshments around the Association. This years venue was Radcliffe-on-Trent Golf Club. The day was course. We also held our AGM before the evening meal; your committee is well supported by greenkeepers (and a few trade ringers) and secretaries to remain as previous with the additional welcoming back of Andy Smith. alike. Many thanks go to all at Radcliffe for their hospitality. The match was There were no comments or questions raised from the floor or by proxy. Our won by the greenkeepers by 4 ½ pts to 1 ½. greatest of thanks to Fulford for affording us such a wonderful day, and I October 2 was our autumn Texas Scramble golf event and Section AGM didn’t realise that there was a portrait of me garnished with a couple of held at Belton Park. The golf day was very well supported and played on a black swan quills in the clubhouse. golf course in superb condition, especially given the weather the day before. Congratulations from the Section, and all the lads at Wrekin Golf Club, Many thanks to Gary Poole and his staff for the course presentation and to all to Andrew Dalton and his lovely bride Kelly Vaughan, who were married at the catering staff for the excellent meal afterwards. The day was sponsored the end of August - a wonderful honeymoon was spent in Sri Lanka and the by Colliers and the halfway house provided by Supatee. Maldives. However, I hear Andrew may require a change of underwear following The results were as follows: 1. A. Walker, G. Poole, C. Chamberlain, B. a water-plane flight to the island. All the best mate and congratulations on Robinson; 2. S. Beverly, R. Moody, S. Calvert; 3. G. Merrison, C. Wilkinson, your Deputy position down there in the south. P. Fell What’s this I see on this month’s calendar page, the 17th at Penn with The AGM followed the meal and was attended by roughly 25 people. mist crawling out of the dell, our Chairman must have had an art attack. Our All reports were well presented by the Chairman, Treasurer and Secretary. thanks to Whitemoss for sponsoring this month’s page - for you rootzone Several changes were made at committee level, they are, Russ Moody etc needs visit www.whitemosseco.co.uk replaces Les Howkins as Vice Chairman after Les moves down south. Bruce The Christmas tournament is to be held at South Staff’s Golf Club on Hicks replaces Rob Welford as Section Secretary after Rob decided to step December 3, with tee times starting at 10:30am and a full English breakfast down after three years in the job. Steve Hopkins has taken up the vacant from 8:30. The cost being £25, also a ‘bring a prize/receive a prize’ of £6 position on the committee. will help all to enjoy the day. It is hoped that Peter Baker (ex. Ryder Cup Vice It was also decided to increase the cost of golf days to £20 for everybody Captain and European Tour Pro) will be giving an after dinner speech and a from next year. This is because the increase in costs at golf clubs means Q & A session. However, such is dependant upon Peter’s commitments. If we currently make a loss on several golf days. It is also aimed at bringing he is unable to attend then a comedian will be employed. more money into the Section so we can provide more education and training Just a note to say the trip to John Deere Headquarters has been re- for our members. scheduled for December 11. There was also a debate over the number of golf days we currently Looking forward to seeing you at South Staff’s and wishing all a Happy have, some people thought that we have too many, with work commitments Christmas. meaning not everybody can attend every event. It was decided that as most of next years fixtures are booked that we would carry on as we are but will Sean McDade review it next year at committee level.
56 Greenkeeper International AROUND THE GREEN
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Brian Willmott Brian We played for the Cresta Cup, at Richmond GC, on September 18 and and 18 September on GC, Richmond at Cup, Cresta the for played We Craig Spooner Spooner Craig [email protected] The Surrey Turkey Trot (team event) is at Trot Betchworth The Park GC, Surrey Turkey on read you time the by that you reminding from apart folks, all that’s Well Tuesday, September 23. I’m writing this very early, for tomorrow I’m offI’m tomorrow for early, very this writing I’m 23. September Tuesday, The result of the Surrey v Essex v Sussex golf match at the Dyke GC, The next golf event will be the Turkey Trot to be held at Dunstable Downs Dunstable at held be to Trot Turkey the be will event golf next The future a hosting in interested be would clubs respective your and you If On the training and education front, the Section plans to hold a First spraying coursesVarious are also being organised for February and emailing: December 11, followed by the AGM. Any questions for the committee need committee the for questions Any AGM. the by followed 11,December date. that to prior weeks two writing, in be received, to over. truly and will be well holiday this my South East Region - Surrey on my holiday to the island of Elba and I hope that by the time I return, in two weeks, you will have looked at your atlas and found where Elba is so been. me Bonaparte where can I tell spent that have some you time there a few years ago so if it’s good enough for him it must be far too good for of me. the likes had MG, Howkins Les member, Surrey new and manager course new their had and sunny and warm dry, was weather The order. excellent in course the neither and which know don’t I - elbow golfers or tennis my for been not it sure am I - sport) any play doesn’t he that being excuse (his doctor my does that my score would have well exceeded the points24 I silently suffered But for. enough of me, I do hate it when people go on all the time about cards: the with up mix embarrassing some after was, result the themselves, 1. Dan 2. Nordsworthy, Derek Cunliffe and 3. Jim Russell. Sorry to Stuart Clayton of result the will as edition December the in appear will 26, September on the England v Scotland match at Hankley Common GC on November 5. There’s Golf Club on December Thursday, 4. Please get your entries of teams of in are Meetings event. popular a always is it as possible as soon as in four the process of being arranged for 2009 and details will follow as soon as venues extremely are We know. member committee a let please Section, the for event would it support their without and events the host that clubs the to grateful competitions. regular organise us to for be difficult three over January in held be to is course The AP1. for Course Work at Aid and a half days, with a further half-day of atexaminations/assessment, education for funds by subsidised be will course The Club. Golf Berkhamsted places 10 only are There person. per £110 around be will cost end the and Bruce Gerald contact please attending in interested are you if so available by come, first served basis. theseAgain, covered. be will courses PA6 and PA2 PA1, interest on dependent relevant other any are there if Additionally, funding. some attract also courses courses guessed it…[email protected] ask. You’ve to be afraid get together. together. get
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many just Mark Day Day Mark [email protected] Bob Wilson has been at Princes Risborough Golf Club since 1992 and and 1992 since Club Golf Risborough Princes at been has Wilson Bob Described by the club as “one of those odd stretches of land intended intended land of stretches odd those of “one as club the by Described Steve Beverly, Immingham Golf Club Club Golf Immingham Beverly, Steve [email protected] www.eastofenglandbigga.com In what turned out to be a very hotly contested competition, Steve Cherry Steve competition, contested hotly very a be to out turned what In Twenty-seven golfers competed for the Twenty-seven summer tournament held at If you have any news or views do not hesitate to get in touch, see you Congratulations to Tim Jenkins, from Chiltern Forest Golf Club, who On November 20, The Blue Course at Frilford Heath Golf Club will be the be will Club Golf Heath Frilford at Course Blue The 20, November On The November! Doom and gloom, credit crunch, rain and a soggy pot noodle, pot soggy a and rain crunch, credit gloom, and Doom November! Ending on a sad note, I would like to pass on condolences from everyone from condolences on pass to like would I note, sad a on Ending Congratulations are to be passed on to Russ Moody and Rob Bemment, Rob and Moody Russ to on passed be to are Congratulations the
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your entry form don’t delay get it in quick.it in get entry delay don’t your form pts. Miles Wood and Frank Whittle were 4th and 5th respectively on 35 pts pts 35 on respectively 5th and 4th were Whittle Frank and Wood Miles pts. and Martin by Turbayne. won both were Drive Longest and the Pin Lambert, 36 pts, on countback from third Simkin placed also Gavin on 36 emerged other trade members supporting trade other for the day. thanks to Silverstone Golf Club for hosting us. Sponsor of the day was Tacit Tacit was day the of Sponsor us. hosting for Club Golf Silverstone to thanks and producing the golf course to the highest standards despite the poor weather weather poor the despite standards highest the to course golf the producing sincerest our and year!) this that written I have times many (how conditions Silverstone Silverstone Golf Club. Credit must go Cherryto Steve and his team for Mid Anglia all soon all will remain part time at the club and promises to visit the Section events in events Section the visit to promises and club the at time part remain will retirement. great a Have his retirement. has been seen casting his spell at many a BB&O golf day over the years. Bob years. the over day golf BB&O a many at spell his casting seen been has has Bucks. in Golf Club to venue for the Turkey Trot and AGM, the club has offered us there facilities facilities there us offered has club the AGM, and Trot Turkey the for venue to host our event and this year celebrate its centenary - a perfect chance throughout the British Isles to boast 54 boast holes of championship golf. Isles to the British throughout and where stone and peat had been extracted. It was, in fact, a veritable paradise. golfer’s by indigenous were heather and gorse where use agricultural little of soil sandy are things looking up? Most certainly. looking up? things are Berks/Bucks & Oxon time. this difficult at in the East of England Section to Chris Wilkinson, of Lincoln Golf Club, on family his and him with are thoughts Our father. his of passing sudden the by Gary Cooper, of STG Amenity Supplies. Amenity of STG Garyby Cooper, to the Section throughout the year. This year the room is kindly sponsored sponsored kindly is room the year This year. the throughout Section the to who have been awarded a two-night stay at Harrogate Week 2009 for services for 2009 Week Harrogate at stay two-night a awarded been have who Around the Green
meal that’s got to be the best we’ve had this year, followed by the welcoming speeches after the dinner and the fantastic humour during the raffle, it made the end of the day a joy. Kent The results are as follows: Overall - Andy Cracknell, Orsett Golf Club. 1.1 Tony Barker, North Weald Golf Club; 1.2 Richard Dunmow, Channels
AROUND THE GREEN Hi guys, firstly a brief report on what had to be one of our best days out Golf Club; 2.1 Sam Anderson, Three Rivers Golf & Country Club; 2.2 Dougie ever at North Foreland Golf Club. Personally, I have never played a course Fernie, Upminster Golf Club. Trade - Andy Turbin - Ernest Doe & Sons; Guest - P. presented so well in this country ever. Many congratulations to Dan McGrath Lewis, Bentley Golf Club; Longest Drive - R. Surridge; Nearest the Pin - Tony and his superb team on the course condition and organisation of the whole Barker, North Weald Golf Club. day to a meticulous standard. Even the weather stayed fine for us and Vic On September 26, 10 members of the Section played in the annual Maynard’s refreshment wagon did a roaring trade in supplying the elixir of triangular Section event against Surrey and Sussex at The Dyke Golf Club, life to the tired and weary. near Brighton, Sussex. Sponsored by Ernest Doe and Sons the event was held Vic’s stocks on board were given the sternest of tests as our battle-wearied in glorious sunshine, but with a keen wind that made the golf interesting. The chairman rode shotgun on the buggy after declining to actually play golf on course was in excellent condition and I for one enjoyed myself immensely. the day due to a recent eye operation. Get well soon mate. Think I might Although Essex came last we by no means disgraced ourselves. The camaraderie try something similar soon! Thanks to Vic and Ernest Doe’s yet again for between the teams was great with lots of banter and good will. providing such a great service on the day. Thanks also to our sponsors for The results are as follows: Sussex 294 – Surrey 288 – Essex 275. providing a few prizes that were very gratefully received. We look forward to continuing this competition again next year in Results as follows: 1. Duncan Kelso, 2. Darren Burton, 3. Gary Branchett, Surrey. Longest Drive - Paul Wilkie, Nearest the Pin - Darren Burton, Trade Prize – Entries and teams will shortly be due in for the Christmas Team Challenge Larry Pearman. and AGM at The Essex Golf & Country Club on Thursday, December 4 After such a great day all I can say is the hosts of our next event have a Details and links to all our sponsors can be found on the website along very tough act to follow…hang on...that’ll be me at Birchwood! with links to other interesting sites with up to date information and other Yes, it’s that time again for our annual Christmas (sorry) extravaganza at things. the home of golf in North West Kent. This year’s shindig should be a corker Anyone with news please contact me at [email protected] or: as we are hoping to introduce a couple of fun variations into the playing 01206 852353/07764862337 format on the day as well as the usual laugh-a-minute entertainment that normally accompanies these events. As usual, we shall be competing for the Arnold Phipps-Jones coveted Scotts Shield, as well as a host of other prizes. Yes, mark November www.essexbigga.co.uk 27 in your diaries folks. Please see the website for details of the day and the all-important entry forms. We do need your confirmation of attendance/non-attendance asap please South West & Wales Region guys for the catering and also so we can organise the groupings by handicap. - South West If you haven’t done so already (thanks to those of you who have) could you please send us your email address via the contact us tab on the website Some good news to start this month, Ian Henshaw, Paul Bishop’s Deputy which will make the whole communication process so much easier. at Castle Coombe, has gained promotion and is moving to Mannings Heath Don’t forget our AGM shall also follow the golf at some point in the Golf Club, in Sussex, as Course Manager. This club is a sister club to Castle evening as well as a Christmas raffle to help smooth things over when you Coombe and is a 36-hole complex with a prestigious hotel. Ian is moving from eventually get home! this area to take up this position. Paul congratulates him on his promotion Well I need to go and make sure my course is up to scratch for all of the and wishes him well in his new post. Ian also worked for me for a while discernable clientele of the elite greenkeeping fraternity. during 1997 and I would also like to wish him all the very best. Looking forward to welcoming you on the day guys. Best of British. We had a warm welcome at Marborough for the Section Autumn Tournament and AGM on October 9. Rob Holland The course was wonderfully presented, and on a beautiful, sunny, still kentgreenkeepers.co.uk autumn day was an absolute pleasure to play. Thanks to Mark and the team for the excellent presentation job on the day, and congratulations to Robin Greaves who displayed all his management prowess by arranging to have Essex the greens hollow cored the week previously, and then had the foresight to book his annual holiday to ensure he was thousands of miles away! Only Please note this important announcement: The Christmas Team Challenge kidding Robin – the greens were still pretty darn good. Thanks very much & AGM has been moved to Thursday, December 4. to Marlborough for hosting the day – it is always a pleasure to play there. The Winter Stableford at Bentley Golf Club has just taken place with In fact, I was reminded of the mid-1970’s when Marlborough was just nine a good turn out of over 50 players taking to the start line with some good holes, and the second time around was off different tees making long par scores and quite a few disasters to report - all those ditches and the odd threes into short par fours etc. water hazard to contend with! At the following AGM, Chris Sealey gave a very upbeat appraisal of the Well done to Mark Stopps and his team for presenting the greens in year’s events and was very pleased with progress on education events in such a consistent state and the course for its excellent condition. particular. Attendance at golf events had been down slightly, which is due in Thank you to the club for allowing us to play, to the catering staff for the part to the difficult year and credit crunch etc, and he announced a radical
58 Greenkeeper International AROUND THE GREEN Greenkeeper International 59 International Greenkeeper Peter Boyd SCOtland & Northern ireland 0141 616 3440 Tel/Fax: Mobile: 07776 242120 Email: [email protected] Peter Larter northern & midland 550115 01476 Tel: Mobile: 07866 366966 Email: [email protected] Clive Osgood south east 819343 01737 Tel: Mobile: 07841 948410 Email: [email protected] Jane Jones south west & wales 270850 01454 Tel: Mobile: 07841 948110 Email: [email protected] BIGGA’s Regional Administrators BIGGA’s Section Notes - Can all notes be emailed to: [email protected] by the 5th of the month prior to publication please.Suggested word guide: 500 Paul Worster Worster Paul 837355 01453 [email protected] month next Until Sturgess Chris All details, Fixture List, and reminders etc will be sent out in late Tournament Autumn the of week the is it report this write I as folks, Hi I have had my holiday and had a great time - want to see my white Alex Macombie can now be contacted via and Facebook we all hope Please remember that I do not run the tournaments any more, Kevin If you have any news you might think useful to the Section email me winter. at: [email protected]: South Coast bits?! he and his family are doing well in Denmark, we hope to see him at the whichChristmas Tournament is being held Gadd’s at Barton-on-sea Tony 10. December Wednesday, on Club Golf glassy2003@ email: via contact be can he does, Brockenhurst, from Glass, 053054. 078559 phone: or hotmail.com at Salisbury & South Wilts so I hope you have all enjoyed the day. enjoyed all Salisburyat have Wilts so I hope you & South
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raffles Please – if you have just started using email, send me your address. Finally, in my new capacity as helping Nobby with communications, you you communications, with Nobby helping as capacity new my in Finally, On a sad note, members may be aware of the recent death of Bob Gates. Bob of death recent the of aware be may members note, sad a On Chris closed the meeting by informing everyone that he would personally would he that everyone informing by meeting the closed Chris Paul Worster Paul thanked Worster the members present for their support for the Chris Sealey mentioned next year’s National Championship, which is at is which Championship, National year’s next mentioned Sealey Chris The space
find Section
holding fourth day. Roger had asked that his thanks be recorded for the place, and Chris Chris and place, the for recorded be thanks his that asked had Roger day. admin up to you to get in touch with Nobby to register for events. All details will be will details All events. for register to Nobby with touch in get to you to up the reduce considerably will This it. to used get will we sure am I – provided mailshot mailshot only which next year, will contain the Fixture List. It will then be rest is then In easy. addition, if I send you an email, just send me a quick postal one be to likely is There it. received you’ve know I means that – reply quick email now – do it tonight - you don’t even have to say anything other other anything say to have even don’t you - tonight it do – now email quick than including your name, but it logs your address onto my system. The If If you change your existing ISP (Internet Service Provider) and get a new a me send just everyone, fact in – me to it send please likewise – address I ask the following. I ask I have email addresses for a good number of Section members, but could could but members, Section of number good a for addresses email have I will and furniture making, and playing golf at Westonbirt - where he had been been had he - where Westonbirt at golf playing and making, furniture and greenkeeper for many years. He was an Honorary Life Member of BIGGA many. by remembered will be fondly and retired in 1992, and with his wife Joy, spent a very happy retirement clock clock retirement happy very a spent Joy, wife his with and 1992, in retired 1970’s, and was a stalwart member of the Association for many years. He years. many for Association the of stalwartmember a was and 1970’s, Bob was Chairman of the Section and of the National Association in the write invitations to events. This would help immensely in boosting attendance. attendance. boosting in immensely help would This events. to invitations member’s participation that it possible to function. Paul issued a plea to all, to plea a issued Paul function. to possible it that participation member’s on pass and participate currently don’t who greenkeepers other visit to try to Any education can be organised – please specify what you want, and we will we and want, you what specify please – organised be can education Any by only is It BIGGA. in levels all at word key a is Participation on. it lay to try strength to strength, but was only made possible by members participation.members by possible made only was but strength, to strength Education Education Events he had organised during 2008. This was going from reminded the meeting that this was made possible by the generous support generous the by possible made was this that meeting the reminded Partners. Patronage of our the time to play and support the event, and in addition to a sponsored singles singles sponsored a to addition in and event, the support and play to time represented had Neale Roger team. a sponsor also would Section the – place Burnham down as Vice Chairman, and grateful thanks were recorded for all his effortshis all for recorded were thanks grateful and Chairman, Vice as down 11 years. the past over Peter Hampton, Peter as Representative. James Trade Braithwaite had stepped and Vincent & Wayne Representative; Paul Garland, Captains, as and Team Secretary. and to to continue continue to as run the Treasurer, golf competitions help from Chris Sealey, with the Patronage Scheme, and Paul Worster, with Worster, Paul and Scheme, Patronage the with Sealey, Chris from help Assistant as Neale, Roger and Fixtures, with Morgan, Tim communications; Robin Robin Greaves, as Vice Chairman and Regional Representative. This is a slight this this will replace the early tournaments. A coach will be provided - so watch watch so - provided be will coach A tournaments. early the replace will this overhaul be support BIGGA. offered to of releasing greenkeepers to attend events, and thanking the clubs for the the for clubs the thanking and events, attend to greenkeepers releasing of In the Shed ANSWERS AERATION ALL WEATHER SURFACES
CROSSWORD HYDROJECT TerrainClassified08-Saltex.qxdAERATION AND CHEMICAL 10/06/2008 12:24 Page 1 INJECTION SERVICE (WITH NO SURFACE DISTURBANCE) KEITH DRIVER (SPORTSTURF CONTRACTOR) Tel:01273 679994 Mobile:07958 532008 124 Warren Road, Woodingdean, Brighton BN2 6DB Use Airforce Advanced Terralift technology
See us at Saltex For top quality practice tees, golf Stand DA A62 course tees, putting & pitching greens, pathways, patios, cart tracks and lawns, Demo of Terralift all professionally planned, designed D 1 5 F 8 4 2 B and installed, please phone: 0 F 7 2 C E 9 B 1 5 machines 01962 733222, E 6 B D 1 email: [email protected] or visit: www.huxleygolf.com 4 3 0 8 9 TERRAIN AERATION 9 A 6 5 8 2 4 0 E 1 7 T: 01449 673783 F: 01449 614564 1 3 D F A 9 email: [email protected] C F 7 D www.terrainaeration.co.uk Advertise here 0 A 3 from as little as £250 E 9 2 6 7 F 8 for a FULL 6 MONTHS, AGRONOMY D C A 8 4 6 full colour, please call ANSWERS:F 8 7 A 9 0 B 6 5 3 D A 5 B C 5. Ian Botham4 Kirstin on 01347 833 832 1. The breastroke3 B 5 26. 1968D 9 1 8 D 2 6 3 7 5 A or email 2. 4 7. Ilie Nastase PJA B F 7 9 4 6 3 E (c) Daily Sudoku Ltd 2008. All rights reserved. [email protected] 3.Monster Ladbrokes Daily Sudoku: Sun 19-Oct-2008 8. veryPele hard · Agronomy 4. The Harlem Globetrotters 9. The Cue Ball · All greenkeeping matters · Course improvements · Staff training and recruitment ARTIFICIAL GRASS MONSTER4 SUDOKO3 2 · Budget forecasting · Design and project management D 9 1 5 70 F 58 A24 2 6 C B 37 E 3 0 F 8 7 4 2 C E D 3 9 B 1 5 A 6 Peter Jones Associates Ltd Tel: 01525 280573 3 E 2 6 B 7 D 9 5 A 8 1 4 C 0 F 6 7 www.pja-golf.co.uk 4 B A C 6 5 3 1 F E 0 7 D 8 2 9 9 A B6 D F C 6 593 8 2 4 0 7E 157 6 1 3 4 7 E 2 D C F B 0 5 A 9 8 B Jamieson 5 C F 8 11 9 0 B A 7 E 96 3 D 4 2 SALE 7 2 0 E A 8 4 3 9 1 5 D F 6 B C Golf Advisors Ltd 193 47 0 C 6 5 84E D F 9 A 62 7 B Bruce Jamieson Golf Advisors Ltd, is an E 5 6 9 D 3 7 2 B 4 1 A C F 8 0 established company offering expert advice on; 3 8 ● Golf Course maintenance B D C 2 E 1 A F 8 0 7 3 9 4 6 5 ● Tournament preparation & presentation F 8 7 A 9 0 B 4 6 5 C 2 E 1 3 D ● Machinery selection 4 6 2 3 ● Budgeting A 7 5 3 2 B 1 6 0 C D E 8 9 F 4 ● Staff recruitment All types of artificial grass ● Soil & turf analysis
8 6 E F 53 4 9 C 7 B3 A 45 2 0 D 1 (c) Daily Sudoku Ltd 2008. All rights reserved. ● Establishment of new golf courses From £7.00 a sq metre DailyC 4 Sudoku:9 1 Sun8 19-Oct-2008D E 0 2 6 3 F 7 B medium5 A Contact: Bruce Jamieson Forth House, Bracknell Lane, Hartley Wintney, Hants, RG27 8QP 2 0 D B 5 A F 7 1 9 4 8 6 3 C E (c) Daily Sudoku Ltd 2008. All rights reserved. Telephone: 01252 844847 Monster Daily Sudoku: Sun 19-Oct-2008 very hard Ideal for SQUIGGLY SUDOKO Pathways • Cart Paths tee beds • Fairways etC (UK delivery service) 6 5 4 3 7 1 2 9 8 http://www.dailysudoku.com/ Advertise here 8 1 7 5 2 9 6 3 4 from as little as £250 0845 22 11 345 2 3 9 4 8 6 5 1 7 www.grasstrader.co.uk for a FULL 6 MONTHS, 4 6 3 2 9 8 1 7 5 full colour, please call 5 8 1 6 3 7 9 4 2 Kirstin on 01347 833 832 9 7 2 1 4 5 8 6 3 or email [email protected] 3 9 6 8 5 4 7 2 1 1 4 8 7 6 2 3 5 9
7 2 5 9 1 3 4 8 6 (c) Daily Sudoku Ltd 2008. All rights reserved. Daily Sudoku: Sun 19-Oct-2008 medium
http://www.dailysudoku.com/ BUYERS GUIDE aylor Lancs) 1978 ON Master Renovation • Specialists k Est. ertidraining u 877289 V service call: . Sand Sportsfield (Preston, Specialist g Melvyn T Overseeding DIX • Cultivation • r • or 07836 259133 on 01283 551417 Ltd • • or fast and friendly UK a.o g F www.turfdry.com g Drainage 877479 out the DRAINAGE f Construction Golf Course Drainage AGRONOMY ping .bi GRINDERS 01772 Greenkeeper International 61 International Greenkeeper
ck • e w Course y Spraying e .huntergrinders.com 01207 270 316 w [email protected] chat k GRASS PROTECTION tstur opdressing 01772 w che T x www.dixondrainage.co.uk el: PHILIP Groundbreaker Slitting/Banding Golf T el: ax: Spor F Contractors latest from the green industr and Visit email: www T Drainage s D y T T L Overseeding
: : n.co.uk 06 rwa i .com and 331479 Smith a MAINTENANCE f igatio : : ORS onal 8127 01257 255327 01257 Topdressing ge Sandslitting f f : : on@aol T nd fsirr iti Piped Drainage Systems Drainage Piped banding Kevin a TSTURF ati : : Blec Vibro Sand Banding Sand Vibro Blec 01865 : : Renovation DRAINAGE 01785 Vertidraining : : Trad INSTALLATION NSIrrig tag .northstaf : : Tel: E: Sand Slitting Sand SPOR draina Drainage 01257 255321 255321 01257 greens Pitch Construction Pitch Contact: www.turfdry.com t t Ly f www Golf Course Drainage www.duncanrosslanddrainage.co.uk [email protected] Plastic Pipe / Turfdry Drainage System Plastic Pipe / Turfdry Survey / Design / Installation / Greens / Survey / Design / Installation / Greens Fairways / Bunkers / Complete Courses o BUYERS’ GUIDE BUYERS’ Appley Bridge, Wigan, Lancs WN6 9DT WN6 Lancs Wigan, Bridge, Appley 07836 259133 / [email protected] OXFORD DESIGN SPEEDCU e e Koro Surfacing Koro Construction CONTRAC Contact Melvyn Taylor: 01283 551417 Contact Melvyn Taylor: For fast and friendly Nationwide Service DRAdvert_40x40mm:DRAdvert_40
n d o D ti f e l 9 s o 6 B 6 ialists ruc G
STEMS A our 2H
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pec elton Roa elton o S C M LE7 • Remodelling eatures GEMENT SY el: 0116 269 0116 el: ax: 0116 269 0116 ax: T F Mobile: 07836 55389 07836 Mobile: ater F .mjabbott.co.uk TION & MAINTENANCE W A V CONSTRUCTION .deltagolf2000.co.uk TER MANA Northampton NN2 7T A www Tel. 01722 716361 Tel. 01722 Syston • Leicester Leicester • Syston IRRIGATION SYSTEMS IRRIGATION LAND SCHEMESDRAINAGE W el: 01604 468908 GOLF COURSE & SPORTSGROUND CONSTRUCTION RENO ax: 01604 474853 Construction 180 Ruskin Road, Kingsthorpe, T Ashfield House” • 1154 1154 • House” Ashfield CLOTHING / FOOTWEAR CLOTHING F “ www JOHN GREASLEY LIMITE GREASLEY JOHN k u . g r a.o g g ANTI - SLIP out the AGRONOMY ping .bi
ck e Tel: 023 8040 4952 Tel: w Fax: 023 8040 2563 Fax: www.gripclad.co.uk y e w chat All Spikes, Impact, Wear & Tear & Wear Impact, All Spikes, k ARTIFICIAL GRASS ARTIFICIAL w che Extremely Tough GRP Antislip Product, Antislip Product, GRP Tough Extremely Resistant to All Weathers, Corrosion, Frost, Frost, Corrosion, Weathers, All Resistant to Email: [email protected] Email: NO MORE SLIPPING ON SLEEPERS! industr latest from the green and Visit BUYERS’ GUIDE
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Liners for lakes, ponds and • Design/Advice • Servicing • New Installations • Service Contracts storage lagoons from the • Contracting • System Upgrades UK’s leading contractor • Supply & Sales The independent choice for irrigation: • PC Systems Comprehensive advice regarding design and DESIGN : SUPPLY : INSTALLATION Tel. 01765 602175 or 01765 690598 Fax 01765 603488 B construction of water areas Tel: 01603 759701 T Email:[email protected] L www.par4.co.uk I Tel: 01206 262676 Fax: 01206 262998 [email protected] Area Dealer A E-mail: [email protected] www.geosynthetic.co.uk OAKDALE Advertise here PUMPS from as little as £250 Visit www.bigga.org.uk for a FULL 6 MONTHS, and check out the latest chat full colour, please call from the AGRONOMY greenkeeping Kirstin on 01347 833 832 Phone: 01427 874200 industry or email Fax: 01427 875333 [email protected]
To advertise within Greenkeeper International please contact Kirstin on 01347 833 832 or email [email protected] RUBBER CRUMB Advertising rates: 1/4 page - £570 1/2 page_ £790 The use of RUBBER CRUMB on grass as top dressing has been Full page - £1500 12054A Splash ad 40x43 17/4/08 12:43 pm Page 1 granted a PATENT in the UK and Ireland under Number EP0788301BI TEBBUTT ASSO. ARE THE LICENSEES with CROWN III rubber crumb Turf Irrigation Reinforcement, the licensed product IRRIGATION Contact Tebbutt Asso. on 01253 342003 or Fax 01253 346644 CONSULTANTS e-mail: [email protected] NO NEED TO www.tebbuttassociates.co.uk SPLASH OUT Call Lely: 01480 226858 or irritech limited email: [email protected] Advertise here Independent Irrigation Consultants www.toro.comwww.toro.com from as little as £250 Specialising in:- ● Existing system evaluation for a FULL 6 MONTHS, ● System design & upgrade Visit www.bigga.org.uk ● full colour, please call and check out the Project management latest chat Kirstin on 01347 833 832 Contact Roger Davey on: from the AGRONOMY or email greenkeeping 01823 690216 industry www.irritechlimited.co.uk [email protected]
62 Greenkeeper International BUYERS GUIDE
k u . g r a.o g g out the AGRONOMY TREATMENT ping .bi Fax: 01925 757519 Greenkeeper International 63 International Greenkeeper
ck e w y e w chat k www.grassgrabber.com WASTE/WASHWATER 1.6 – 2.6m Vertidraining 1.6 – 2.6m For landscape and leisure 1.0 – 1.5m Earthquaking w che VERTIDRAINING HIRE VERTIDRAINING Sand spreading and seeding Sand spreading Website: www.greenfarmturf.co.uk Website: Email: [email protected] Tel: 01925 758099 Tel: or Chris 07825 329283 or Big roll turf supply/installation Big roll Call: Mark 07838 369910 Green Farm Turf Farm Green latest from the green industr and Visit Hydrotech Solutions Treatment Water • Golf Machinery Wash • Positive Filtration – Non-Biological • 200 + Systems Installed Worldwide • Simple, Low Cost Installation • Low Running Costs Email: [email protected] , d 01635 551665 eens own ounds, ootzone, www.pilimited.co.uk [email protected] es including oughout the year urf for Gr TURF ees, Surr ecision laser grading. .tillersturf.co.uk End of Lease Machinery?” oaches and Fairways NEW for 2008/9 and bunker lining. and bunker banks. TF turf for pathways and mown at 6mm. edominantly bent swar essed thr NEW for 2007 R own on USGA r el: 01652 678 000 on sandy loam topsoil. optional laser grading. and bent/fescue gr USED MACHINERY arious mixtur urf for Golf Courses Pr urf for T Turf for bunker revetting for bunker revetting Turf ees supplied and laid, with T V Gr T T Specialist Growers of Specialist Growers VERTIDRAINING HIRE VERTIDRAINING T Rootzone T Tees supplied and laid, with supplied and laid, with Tees Appr www ryegrass/fescue, 100% fescue, “Looking for Quality Pre-owned or optional pr top-dr For quality, inspected tailor-made to and your requirements, serviced look than Limited. P.I no From machinery, a further one-off purchase to a package Limited of offers full P.I a machinery, complete buyers service with Contact us today and see how we can help. specialist impartial advice. Finance & Lease Arranged Part Exchange Considered European-Wide Delivery
01347 833 832 TURF or email Wildflower Turf, www.turf.co.uk TREE MOVING Tel: 01904 448675 01904 Tel: TREE CLEARANCE from as little as £250 full colour, please call full colour, [email protected] and new Low Maintenance turf stabilisation/drought tolerance, 5 golf grades including high bent Greens on USGA rootzone, RTF for 20 years of golf turf experience FULL 6 MONTHS, for a FULL Advertise here Advertise Kirstin on t c u
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SHAPERS .banksamenity SLEEPERS OP DRESSINGS & R T Ald Tel: 07739-463397 Tel: e y ainage www r TOP DRESSINGS TOP
le www.greensandtees.co.uk Suppliers of high quality [email protected] MICHAEL “FRED” GREEN MICHAEL r ootzon ove d ove r eat black laye black eat Fineturf Products
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GREENS AND TEES 01858 464346 / 433003 DRESSINGS FOR F TEL: 01702 338686 SCREENED FENSOIL, event thatch build build thatch event oducts known to ma to known oducts BUNKER SAND & P SHAPER/PROJECT MANAGER CONSTRUCTION LTD CONSTRUCTION r r and P Imp Use one of the oldes the of one Use p to t to FENDRESS™ • New or used • Hard or softwood • Crossing timbers Shi RAILWAY RAILWAY SLEEPERS Tel: 01433 620003 Fax: 01433 620388 granular charcoal for over 200 years ■ ■ ■ Greenkeeper along the banks of the Tweed. along the banks of the St. Boswells TD6 0DE. St. Boswells before 1st. December, 2008 to: before 1st. December, GREENKEEPER VACANCY GREENKEEPER is an exclusive, private members’ sports club, set in 100 acres sports club, set in 100 acres private members’ is an exclusive, Full month £500 Part month £300 Please apply in writing, including your C.V. Please apply in writing, including your C.V. St. Boswells Golf Club For instant online Applicants should be qualified to a NVQ Level II. Applicants should be qualified to a NVQ Level Get online now! Club Secretary, St. Boswells Golf Club, Club Secretary, Spraying certificates beneficial (PA1, PA2, and PA6). PA2, and (PA1, Spraying certificates beneficial The website is updated Online jobs go to This is an ideal opportunity for a committed, self motivated This is an ideal opportunity for a committed, self motivated Kirstin on 01347 833 832 greenkeeper to impose his/her style on this gem of a 9 hole course greenkeeper to impose his/her style on this gem of www.bigga.org.uk regularly with new vacancies advertising please contact please advertising Roehampton Club Roehampton offers established in 1901 it to Richmond Park. Originally of parkland, close in the London area of sporting and leisure facilities the finest range arguably croquet courts, 5 squash courts, 4 golf course, 29 tennis including; an 18-hole to join are currently looking for a Greenkeeper We Club. lawns and Health by operations of the Golf Course to assist in the daily our Grounds department preparation of the course. ensuring the efficient the ideal candidate will possess the following Whilst full training will be given, qualifications and competencies: Maintenance. Turf in Sports • NVQ Level 2 or equivalent and PA6 PA2a, • Pesticide application – PA1, • Good communication skills. of Health and Safety. Appreciation • to HR Manager, Applications should be sent Lane, London, SW15 5LR Roehampton Club, Roehampton [email protected]. or Closing date: 30/11/2008 - - that are required. Thorndon Park Golf Club or [email protected] or 1st ASSISTANT 1st Head Greenkeeper, Robert George Head Greenkeeper, • NVQ level 2, aspiring to do level 3. • NVQ level 2, aspiring Chainsaw certificates. • Up to date spraying and and Safety regulations. • Knowledge of Health systems. • Knowledge of irrigation skills. • Computer and administrative skills. • Good communication • Good turf management. Closing date: Friday 5th December Ingrave, Brentwood, Essex CM13 3RH Ingrave, Brentwood, Please apply in writing together with C.V to Please apply in writing together with C.V Applications are invited for the following position following invited for the are Applications Salary negotiable depending on experience and qualifications. the head green keeper and further their skills and training. We have a We training. the head green keeper and further their skills and Area Sales Manager, Turf and Amenity and Turf Manager, Sales Area North England, Competitive Salary + Excellent Benefits horticultural company in the world largest The Scotts Company is the world’s are We markets. with products for both the home and garden and professional a global $3billion company and we continue to grow. The Role looking for someone to take responsibility for maximising the sales are We Products in one of our core mar for acceptance and growth of Scotts’ effort kets, Turf & Amenity. Reporting to the Turf and Amenity Sales Manager your and Turf Reporting to the Amenity. & Turf kets, key responsibilities will include: - Developing and implementing annual sales action plans - Managing all accounts and prospects - Maintain and strengthening customer relationships - Produce progress reports to communicate and share with the team - In conjunction with marketing develop sales communications including promotions for end users. represent the company in trade shows and seminars To - be successful in this role you will also have a good understanding of To Microsoft packages. Proven success in a sales role is essential, along with the self-motivation and initiative needed to achieve individual and Company goals. be advanta FACTS, will An industry-recognised qualification e.g. BASIS & geous but is not essential. Evidence of technical understanding of the nature Amenity Market will of the product range and a general understanding of the be required. The role will involve some overnight stays Benefits bonus, 26 days annual leave, a contributory Benefits include: company car, pension scheme, health insurance & excellent development opportunities Rondeau: Vicky & covering letter to apply please send CV To [email protected] skills and to be able to lead by example to carry on the high standards skills and to be able to lead The following qualification skills held by the candidate will be an advantage: The following qualification skills head greenkeeper and is able to show positive and assertive leadership head greenkeeper and is Established in 1920 Thorndon Park is a prestigious members club and is Park is a prestigious Thorndon 1920 Established in situated in Essex 10 minutes from J29 on the M25. Thorndon is a classic on the M25. 10 minutes from J29 situated in Essex Applicants will be working alongside the head greenkeeper and deputy Applicants will be working very motivated team that aspire to high standards and good team moral. very motivated team that aspire to high standards Harry Colt design and provides excellent playing and working conditions. playing and working and provides excellent Harry Colt design This is an excellent opportunity for the right person to work closely with This is an excellent opportunity for the right person 64 Greenkeeper International 64 Greenkeeper
Recruitment BIGGA Membership Greenkeeping can offer you a career for life and a lifetime of learning
Student Membership of BIGGA Harrogate Week BIGGA MEMBERSHIP (for those studying full-time) Entry to a world class trade event. The Trade Exhibition Greenkeeping is a rewarding and challenging career choice for all has over 200 exhibitors and 8,500 visitors. There ages and abilities from school leavers to those considering a career can be no better place to ‘Continue to Learn’ than change, let BIGGA help you develop your career as a greenkeeper by taking part in the education programme. Students will find much that becoming a Student Member. will demand their attention including seminars of specific interest. On production of your Student membership card you can attend the Membership of BIGGA will provide you with: - seminars FREE of charge. Not to mention the fantastic networking opportunities available throughout the whole of this week, another Greenkeeper International valuable way of learning…from those already in the industry.
The Association’s much read magazine packed with up to the minute On Course Field Guides information and features providing you with valuable research and perhaps even helping you with your assignments. Delivered FREE to To aid with your study further, Student members are entitled to receive a you door monthly. FREE copy of each of the field guides available in the series. Produced in a handy to use and read format. Thanks to the contributors to the BIGGA Membership Handbook Education and Development Fund there are five in the series: -
Providing you with an extensive guide to the products and services • Golf Course Grasses; relating to the fine turf industry and the contact deails of the major • Identification and uses of the main grasses found in golf companies supplying those products and services. The Handbook also course rough; includes a comprehensive greenkeeper membership section. • Identification of trees and shrubs on the golf course; • Identification of damage caused by mammals and birds; • The major diseases and pests of fine turf.
BIGGA Lending Library
Can’t find the book you require in your local library or College Resource Centre? Why not check our library listing to see if the BIGGA lending library stocks the title for which you are looking? The lending library is available to all BIGGA members, allowing them to borrow up to two books for up six weeks, the only cost is return postage.
BIGGA Website
Check out the latest Jobs online by visiting www.bigga.org.uk
Application Form - for an application form either download a form from the BIGGA website at www.bigga.org.uk/join/membership- forms/ or contact the membership team on 01347 833800 option 1 for membership. Chairman’s Column
WAITING FOR THE FROST
It has been a very busy month on the back of our golf tournament. I was straight off to East Sussex National Golf Club for the BIGGA National Championship, sponsored by Kubota. On arrival I was absolutely amazed with the size of the resort as a whole, the new hotel looked impressive, the whole stay was fantastic. On the Sunday morning we woke up to torrential rain, not a shock for weather so far this year, but naturally disappointing. It was decided, to be fair to everyone in this year’s championship, instead of a two day championship the competition would change to a one day Stableford competition with a new trophy as well. Monday was a fantastic day weather-wise, only turning poor towards the end; it enabled us all to see East Sussex Golf Club at its best - on that note, I would like to thank the Course Manager, Scott Litchfield, and his staff for their efforts and producing a great golf course. I would like to congratulate the winners. Firstly, the BIGGA Trophy went to David Simpson, who won it for the second year running and travelled all the way from Crieff in Scotland. The BIGGA Cup went to fellow Midlander, David Fellows. The BIGGA Plate, which was for the Stableford competition was won by Brian Robinson. And the BIGGA Bowl was won by Andrew Cornes, on behalf of the trade. Overall, a good event and it was great to see people travelling from far and wide to attend. The Board of Management meetings were my next diary appointment. We discussed the budgets, strategies for 2009, the AGM in January and for a proposed new membership structure, incorporating additional categories for fellow groundsmen in other areas of sport to become full-category members. This was supported by the Board unanimously and gives us a chance to increase our membership within the sports turf industry. I hope that with the support of the members too it will improve our standing, allowing us to not stand still and cope under the demands of the current financial climate. I also attended Stephen Bernhard’s new HQ opening at Rugby in October, in the presence of HRH Earl of Wessex. A very interesting and busy day and it was great to meet Prince Edward. A poor start to the month of October although it has started to dry up nicely with some strong winds. Frost looks not too far on the horizon, however. It is good to have a nice, dry sunny, spell, despite the cold. The biggest year, it really will be a fantastic opportunity for all our members to attend and problem for this time of year for Parkland greenkeepers is the leaves. They sharpen their skills. We are giving great initiatives, I do hope as many of you create so much work for the guys and with pressure from golfers over this as possible will be planning to come and support Harrogate Week 2009. next month or two it will be a continual job. It takes up a lot of the working Budgets! It is a tough time to be looking at the figures. Obviously, with weeks’ labour. People think we are out of season but it is as much in season all the rising costs versus the downturn in revenue, it is going to be a hard as ever with these workloads. year in 2009 and trying to set the right budgets is no easy task. I know it We are looking towards the winter and preparing for our projects in is on everyone’s mind but hopefully there will be a positive end to the year 2008/2009. I can’t believe we are heading into the fourth quarter of the within the industry and we can see improvements in this area. year already, as our planning will now concentrate on this time along with Finally, I will be attending the Icelandic Greenkeeping Conference from all the general maintenance the quieter season affords. 24-26 October. As always I look forward to meeting some new people within the industry, and I am to give a presentation on golf course management within a resort, incorporating sustainability and environmental issues. 2009 – Harrogate Week
By now you should already have seen the Definitive Guide to Harrogate Kenny Mackay Week 2009. There is so much additional education and free seminars this Chairman
Your next issue of GI will be with you by December 8th Visit our website for a full archive of BIGGA magazine issues at www.bigga.co.uk
66 Greenkeeper International
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