2 weeks to BTME 2015 Greenkeeper International GI Published by the British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association £5.50 JANUARY 2015
Inside... BTME 2015 - Are you READY? THE BIGGA TURF MANAGEMENT EXHIBITION AT HARROGATE 18-22 JANUARY 2015 Also... Eddie Bullock Also Inside... BACK TO SCHOOL : REMEDY OAK : FINANCE L&D NEWS Welcome from BIGGA
BIGGA
BIGGA President Sir Michael Bonallack, OBE
BIGGA Board of Management Chairman Chris Sealey Vice Chairman Thank you Les Howkins BIGGA Past Chairman Tony Smith BIGGA Board Members Rob Welford, Stuart Greenwood, Arnold Phipps-Jones, Jeremy Hughes, Kenny MacKay, George Barr, John Keenaghan see you in 2015 BIGGA Chief Executive Officer Jim Croxton
The Association would like to thank all of our BIGGA Partners and BIGGA BIGGA General Manager Tracey Maddison Education Supporters for their fantastic support throughout last year. Your [email protected] invaluable backing underpins the Association’s considerable investment BIGGA Head of Member Development Sami Strutt in Continuing Professional Development and all our educational activity. [email protected]
We urge members to support them in 2015 and beyond. Contact Us BIGGA House, Aldwark, Alne, York, YO61 1UF [email protected] www.bigga.org.uk Tel – 01347 833800 | Fax – 01347 833801 BIGGA Welcome Celebration at BTME 2014
Greenkeeper International A big year for BIGGA The official monthly magazine of the British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association Limited. A very Happy New Year to all our BTME is just around the corner and the Production members and friends, let us hope that signs are extremely good that we will Design & Brand Executive 2015 is a good one for the greenkeeping enjoy a fantastic conference, exhibition Tom Campbell and golf industries and builds on the and the various associated social and Tel – 01347 833800 reasonable progress of 2014. networking events that are part of our ext 513 [email protected] It is shaping up to be a big year for BIGGA; annual festival of greenkeeping. the proposed new Governance structure The Continue to Learn programme has been Editorial we hope the membership will adopt at the very well received, and I am delighted that the Communications Executive forthcoming AGM will help the Association to signs are pointing towards record numbers of Steve Castle be more coordinated and focused at all levels, delegates. Continue to Learn has had a Ryder Tel – 01347 833800 ext 510 and put succession plans in place to ensure Cup flavour to it recently and I’m pleased this steve.castle @bigga.co.uk our future. continues in 2015 with both Steve Chappell’s The Young Greenkeepers Committee, who review of the 2014 Gleneagles event and also Advertising meet formally for the first time later this month an insight into how Chris Tritabaugh plans on Business will provide both our team and board members preparing Hazeltine National for 2016. Development Manager with the insight to better serve the needs of Jill Rodham Tel – 01347 833800 the next generation of BIGGA members. We I am particularly looking forward to the ext 519 will also continue to provide further member Fax – 01347 833802 BIGGA Welcome Celebration on the [email protected] benefit opportunities and increase our Tuesday evening of BTME.
Printing educational activity at Section, Region and The opportunity to celebrate all that is Warners Midlands Plc, The Maltings, Manor National levels. good in the greenkeeping industry amongst Lane, Bourne, Lincolnshire PE10 9PH Tel – 01778 391000 | Fax – 01778 394269 friends and colleagues is one to savour and I After a challenging few years BIGGA is am delighted that our guest speaker, Andrew Contents may not be reprinted or otherwise reproduced without written permission. now in a stable and positive business Cotter from the BBC, has agreed to share tales Return postage must accompany all situation - all aspects of our activity are in from the golfing industry. I know we will be materials submitted if return is requested. No responsibility can be assumed for unsolicited growth. royally entertained. materials. The right is reserved to edit submissions before publication. At their recent meeting, which took place at I look forward to seeing very many of you in Although every care will be taken, no Woodhall Spa, the headquarters of England Harrogate for BTME. responsibility is accepted for loss of manuscripts, photographs or artwork. Opinions Golf, the Board of Management commenced a Enjoy the read. expressed are not necessarily those of the formal Strategic Planning process, which will Association, and no responsibility is accepted for such content, advertising or product take shape over the next few months. information that may appear. Circulation is by The ambition is to produce a Strategic subscription. Subscription rate: UK £50 per year, Europe and Eire £65, Rest of the World Plan that will provide a clear direction for the £95. The magazine is also distributed to BIGGA members, golf clubs, local authorities, the turf Association and also detail very clearly to the industry, libraries and central government. wider golf industry the role BIGGA and its members intends to take to positively influence the sport. All members, as well as our industry partners and commercial clients, will be consulted to ensure the Plan is one that suits
Individual Contributors: Steven Tierney MG, Chris Lomas MG, Andrew Campbell MG CGCS, W J Rogers, Sam the entire industry. I hope you are able to take Langrick, Espen Bergmann, Nick Gray, Steve Dixon, Richard McGlynn, Douglas Duguid, Jaey Goodchild, Michael ISSN: 0961– 6977 the time to give us your views and help shape Beaton, David Barker, Greg Evans, Frank Newberry © 2013 British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association Limited the Association’s future. Jim Croxton, BIGGA CEO
@BIGGALtd JANUARY 2015 GI 3 CONTENTS GI A look at what’s inside the magazine this month JANUARY 2015 BIGGA TURF MANAGEMENT FEATURES EXHIBITION
20 BTME 2015 Preview The latest from the exhibitors, and Welcome Celebration news
32 Do you encourage the intimacy factor? BTME speaker Eddie Bullock writes
36 Join the Support
Team at Wentworth A1 Agronomic Services A28 Amenity Sales A59 Soil Harmony B19 Britrisk Safety Ltd B48 Charterhouse Turf C12 Turfkeeper.com C48 Complete Weed Control M9 Ransomes Jacobsen A2 Vitax A29 Aquarille A60 Countrywide B23 British & International Golf Machinery Ltd C14 JUB Holland C49 Verde Sports Ltd M10 Better Billy Bunker A5 DENNIS & SISIS A30 Cleveland Sitesafe Ltd A61 Gambetti UK Greenkeepers Association B50 Eagle C15 Highspeed Group Ltd C50 Profusion Environmental Ltd M11 Barcham Trees Plc A6 MTS Golf & Utility Vehicles A31 Ultra Soil Solutions Ltd A63 Green-Tech Ltd B29 Greenkeepers Training B52 Syngenta C21 BMS C51 Aqua-Terra Europe M12 Durabunker Ltd Apply to be a volunteer greenkeeper A9 Rain Bird Europe SNC A32 Hurrells Seeds B1 Grillo Agrigarden Ltd Committee (The) B54 Everris Limited C22 GCOA & GRN-OGRO C52 Sibelco M14 GCSAA A10 Ecosolve Ltd A34 Tarmac Topsport B2 Perrot B30 Delta-T Devices B56 Lloyds / Hunters C23 Barenbrug UK Ltd C53 KUHN Amenity Pro M15 Golf Club Managers Association A11 Nomix Enviro A35 The Grass Group B5 Maxstim B31 HDK Electric Vehicles B58 Campey Turf Care Systems C27 Hunter Industries C54 Bailoy Irrigation Controls M16 Toro - Lely (UK) Limited at the BMW PGA Championship A12 Custom Agronomics A45 Germinal Seeds GB B7 Symbio B32 Tines Direct B59 Trimax Mowing Systems C28 Talbot Farm C55 Lastec UK M17 Sports Metals Ltd A16 Blec Global Ltd A46 Bayer B9 Lindum Turf B34 Sherriff Amenity B78 Baroness Mowers C30 Headland Amenity Ltd C56 Double A / Tru-Turf M18 True-Bot.com A17 GREENACRES Artificial Grass A49 MJ Abbott Ltd B10 Humber Palmers Fertilisers B36 STRI C1 Huxley Golf C34 Netafim UK C58 Wiedenmann UK Ltd M19 Sports Maintenance A18 Farmura Ltd A51 Tillers Turf B11 Sheltons Sportsturf Drainage B37 Ground2Control FEATC2ur SoutersE Sports Ltd C35 GBR Technology Limited C61 Wessex International M20 John Deere A19 Aquatrols A52 Spectrum Technologies Solutions B38 Engo Group PREVIEWC4 Border Sports Services Ltd C37 Askham Bryan College C62 Rigby Taylor Ltd M28 GGM Groundscare A20 Johnsons Sports Seed A54 EnviroMonitors B12 Merrist Wood College B39 Bradshaw Golf Buggies C5 Ecobunker Ltd C38 TurfCare M4 Bywater M29 Gianni Ferrari s.r.l. A22 European Turfgrass A55 Aitkens Sportsturf Ltd B13 Myerscough College B42 Garfitts International Ltd C6 Yamaha Motor (UK) Ltd C39 Limagrain UK M5 Turfdry 38 Finance your fleet Laboratories A56 Groundsman Industries Ltd B17 Compo Expert UK Ltd B43 Indigrow Ltd C8 County Sport Surfaces C41 True Surface by Turfline M6 Perennial A23 CRL - Clive Richardson Ltd A57 Inturf B18 Scotland’s Rural B44 Bernhard & Co Ltd C10 Green-Tech Ltd C42 Global Turf Equipment UK Ltd M7 Institute of Groundsmanship X A27 Maxicrop UK A58 Greentech Sportsturf Ltd College, Elmwood Campus B46 Waste2Water Europe Ltd C11 KAR UK Limited C47 XL Horticulture Ltd M8 Belchim Crop Protection Ltd 46 Machinery tips from John Deere 22 GI JANUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd 22-23@BIGGALtd JANUARY 2015 GI 23
40 Back to School How a two-man greenkeeping team REGULARS 2 weeks to BTME 2015 are scoring top marks GREENKEEPER 42 A Greenkeeping 3 Welcome from BIGGA INTERNATIONAL 20-22 Published by the British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association Remedy 6 Chairman’s Word GI £5.50 JANUARY 2015 JAnuArY 2015 News from Remedy Oak Golf Club 8 Newsdesk on their greens replacement project 14 Membership News 18857aF15725 Car Park DL _Layout 1 07/03/2011 10:39 Page 1 46 Moment of Truth 16 L&D News Henry Bechelet and Dr Andy Owen 60 Around the Green from Everris - trials on your course 68 Greenkeepers 48 Get with the Training Committee 18-21 Programme XX XX X 70 Buyers Guide JAnuArY 2015 Welcome Celebration 20-30 32 46 Driving & ParkingWe’re delighted in to HeadlandHarrogate announce Amenity that this year’s advises you how How to find us 72 Recruitment Welcome Celebrationto plan keynote a fertiliser speaker programme is BBC sports broadcaster Andrew Cotter. How to find the Harrogate 74 @BIGGALtd Harrogate is located centrally on the UK map with ready access Andrew has commentated50 New onYear, many prominent New Fleet Around Harrogate to London and Edinburgh. A first-class motorway network, golf events for the BBC since 2000 including International Centre Inside... OnceEat you’ve outarrived in Harrogate, movingKubota’s about compacttown and machinery mainline rail, sea and 24-hour air links ensure that Harrogate is The Ryder Cup, The Open, The Masters and The @BIGGALtd BTME 2015 - ARE visitingSome nearby fine eateries towns in and villages couldn’t be easier with A new page featuring the best Tweets and pics from the industry 0%* ableHarrogate to offer is located all the centrally benefits on the expected UK map withof a ready truly access global location. – don’t forget to tag @BIGGALtd to give yourself a chance of being featured! YOU READY?Finance Women’s Open. 0+2 Annual Harrogate’sHarrogate versatile – booking andis regular public transport network. Parking at Payments to London and Edinburgh. Our favourite tweets 1st Payment THE BIGGAMarch 2015 TURF He has also kept52 viewers Focus and onlisteners Ryegrasses entertained this month... Harrogate has excellent rail and air links with regular train @Glen37Chris recommended @BIGGALtd loving the turfgrass MANAGEMENT @Graeme_Roberts For more information and to view bus timetablesBarenbrug visit on ryegrasses A first-class motorway network, mainline rail, sea and information fi le @Graeme_Roberts1 EXHIBITION AT and informed during the Olympics, the Paralympics, It’s mornings like this that are what services to and from London King’s Cross via York and Leeds winters all about @BIGGALtd HARROGATE www.harrogateanddistrict.co.uk 24-hour air links ensure that Harrogate is able to offer all the @HighspeedGroup B.E.D. Come and see @HighspeedGroup 18-22 JANUARY @ #BTME @BIGGALtd in January tennis and rugby. 2015 to win our SPECIAL SPECIAL (www.nationalrail.co.uk) and Leeds Bradford International prize!!! #greenkeepers 2015 benefits expected of a truly global location. @CaddingtonGolfC Also... Modern English Fun supporting the @BIGGALtd EDDIE BULLOCK He’s sure to be54 an enlighteningGrowing, and entertainingMowing MidAnglia section Xmas scramble - met some good industry pals! Back Airport is only 20 minutes from Harrogate with a regular bus to tree planting! @LAPUMagazine ALSO INSIDE... Harrogate has excellent rail and air links with regular train @avrogreenkeeper @ThePointHGK BACK TO SCHOOL : REMEDY OAK : FINANCE Tel: 01423 568600 Good day @stenodocgolf for D&C speaker to round off an evening celebrating the best @BIGGALtd Xmas bash always Disc Zone... what it means and Spraying good to catch up with fellow service into Harrogate. For details about travelling to Harrogate Harrogate greenkeepers. #toiletlock services to and from London King’s Cross via York and Leeds bed.ltd.uk @avrogreenkeeper GI_JAN_15_v6.indd 1 Highlight of my career @the_iog Take Control of Premium Cut Quality of the greenkeeping industry. awards @BIGGALtd greenkeeping 22/12/2014 16:17 achievement of the year. Thank you Our NEW generation of Fairway Mowers redefi ne cut quality You need to display a parking disc in yourDr Terry Mabbett writes by public transport visit www.transportdirect.info and combine it with uncompromising productivity. Take adv antage (www.nationalrail.co.uk) and Leeds Bradford International @mgturfcare of our latest innovations like eHydro operation, TechControl @BIGGALtd north wales great day management and SpeedLink cutting unit adjustment. Achiev e the at wallasey gc course in superb cut quality your course desires with the NEW A-Series. Entry to the Welcome Celebration is FREE, and @CampeyTurfCare condition thanks to @richie_stevo for hitting me on the elbow from 60yds!!! windscreen. Discs are free of charge and Airport is only 20 minutes from Harrogate with a regular bus @CaddingtonGolfC Bistro Pierre @LAPUMagazine it will take place in the Royal Hall ofP the Harrogate Story of the Day continues the NEW countdown to @BIGGALtd BTME available from HIC Reception, Box Office, service into Harrogate. 2015 #btme2015 British and International Golf 58 We Want You @TurfProUK
French Also in the TP Briefi ng today the GA
Car P International Centre on Tuesday 20 January at 5.30pm. industry is counting down to @ OFFICIAL DISC ZONE BIGGALtd ‘s BTME in January GOLF COURSE EQUIPMENT
SUPPLIER _LET14_ 14 For details about travelling to Harrogate by public transport @BIGGAMidlands LF Ok guys and girls who is coming local shops, hotels, tourist information and _GO available for Golf & Bo wls clubs in the UK onl y. The offer includes a ll golf Tel: 01423 533070 * The fi nance offer is NG to Harrogate with @BIGGALtd in y vehicles and JD attac hments. Offer is avail able
mercial mowing, utilit GreenkeepersE 1 Association & turf equipment, com
Join the BIGGA Open Support vary 0. 2 Hours January for BTME we could meet . Rates/payments may until 28th February 2015. Finance is limite d to 60% of retail value ill International T where applicable. An administration fee w 007 up for a debrief :) ax and cost of funds. VA From London: to refl ect changes in t 6 bject to status. Terms and be charged. We may withdraw this offer at any time. Finance is su TS @jenky0 JohnDeere.com councillebistrotpierre.co.uk/ offices. Take note of the time limit, No return visit www.transportdirect.info 38 42 conditions apply. F or further information contact your local Jo hn Deere dealer. Team 2015 @BIGGALtd 54 74 GI JANUARY 2015 within 24 hours M1 - A1(M) - J47 signposted KnaresboroughXX and then follow XX X 22.09.14 11:44 1 22/12/2014 17:58 TS60070_1_ENGGB_Golf14_LET14_PGA_210x297.indd this varieslocations/harrogate throughout the town centre. By Car From London: GI_JAN_15_v6.indd 74 ZONE N1 the Harrogate signs. The town centre is divided intoDOWNLOAD zones, M1 - A1(M) - J47 signposted Knaresborough and then follow you mayCattlemens not park in the same zone more Fromthe Harrogate the North: signs. A1 - J47 signposted Knaresborough and then Tex Mex 4 GI JANUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd followFrom the the North:Harrogate A1 - J47 signs. signposted Knaresborough and Centre @BIGGALtd JANUARY 2015 GI 5 than once during any 24-hour period. Tel: 01423 561456 THE BTME APP Fromthen follow the theEast: HarrogateM621- signs. A1(M) - J47 signposted Knaresborough cattlemens.co.uk andFrom then the follow East: M621- the Harrogate A1(M) - J47 signpostedsigns. Blue Badge Holders Knaresborough and then follow the Harrogate signs. From the West: M56 - M62 - A1(M) - J47 signposted BlueChez Badge la Vie Holders can park free of charge in all of the From the West: M56 - M62 - A1(M) - J47 signposted Knaresborough and then follow the Harrogate signs. and in the town centre Council’sFrench Off Street car parks and On Street car parking bays. Knaresborough and then follow the Harrogate signs. The Tel:Blue 01423 Badge 568018 must be displayed so that the Badge Number and chezlavie.comExpiry Date are visible. There is no time limit. Newcastle BlueDrum Badge & Monkey Holders can park free of charge and for a maximum of 3 Seafoodhours on single or double yellow lines providing the vehicle A1 (M) is notTel: causing 01423 502650 an obstruction to other road users or pedestrians. M6 A validdrumandmonkey.co.uk Blue Badge must be displayed as detailed above along with a parking disc showing time of arrival. Harrogate Harrogate Brasserie Leeds York PleaseEnglish check all signs and roadDon’t markings forget to download when parking the BTME 2015 app ✈ M62 yourTel: vehicle. 01423 505041 which is available to download for iPhone, iPad M18 harrogatebrasserie.co.uk and Android devices! This is the quick and simple Manchester way to keep up to date with Europe’s premier turf M1 Bus Lucia’sStops exhibition on your smartphone. AlongItalian busy roads an illegally parkedFeatures vehicleinclude: Event can infodelay / Exhibitor 50 peopleTel: 01423travelling 500071 on a bus. Vehiclesinformation parked / Speaker illegally details / oftenHall plans / Full preventluciawinebar.co.uk/ buses and larger vehiclesagenda offrom the weekmanoeuvring / Sponsors detailssafely Birmingham and harrogatecan restrict the driver’s vision...You can please also create let yourbuses own use Calendar them! which will ensure you don’t miss anything during what is Please note we are not running a park and ride or hopper William and Victoria sure to be another packed week. The Harrogate service this year. Dragon Road Car Park will be available from PenaltyEnglish Charges (PCN) International Centre boasts free wi-fi access Tuesday to Thursday with limited free parking for exhibitors A PenaltyTel: 01423 Charge 521510 Notice willwhich be issued will enable for delegates any vehicle to access the internet and visitors on a first come first served basis contraveningwilliamandvictoria.com the traffic regulations.throughout There the week. are two levels of charges, £50 and £70. If paid within 14 days these will be King’s Road, Harrogate HG1 5LA Telephone: +44 (0)1423 500500 reduced to £25 and £35. Email: [email protected] Avoid the queues - pre-register for BTME 2015 - www.btme.org.uk DetailsFor on morehow and where news to pay and a Penalty updates Charge will be follow BIGGAwww.harrogateinternationalcentre.co.uk on Twitter @BIGGALtd given on the back of the PCN together with a payment slip. Designed by www.chilli-uk.com @BIGGALtd JANUARY 2015 GI 21
GI_JAN_15_v6.indd 21 22/12/2014 17:01 BTME 2015_Layout 1 15/12/2014 12:02 Page 1 Chairman’s Word National Chairman, Chris Sealey, gives his thoughts for the month
An unforgettable year ends at BTME
at Wentworth in May, and the BIGGA to support them whenever possible. National Championship at Liphook in Also, everyone at BIGGA remains hugely October. Both of these events were hit by grateful to the trade members who support torrential rain either side of what turned us in dozens of ways – from exhibiting out to be a pretty decent summer. at BTME to supporting our educational However, teams at both facilities events. pulled together and they should all be The BIGGA Partner and BIGGA hugely proud of their efforts to produce Education Supporter programmes have beautifully presented golf courses. proved very beneficial for both sides, Other highlights included the building on the long-term success of the celebrations marking the 25th Gold and Silver Key initiative. anniversary of Toro Student Greenkeeper A huge thank you must go to all at of the Year, where it was wonderful to Chippenham Golf Club, and in particular catch up with so many previous winners, General Manager Leighton Walker, my and particularly pleasing to see that Deputy Seb Cavilla, Steve Randall, and so many have chosen to remain in and to my long-suffering partner Pat for progress through this great industry. their support. Also thank you to Jim It has been terrific to chair such a Croxton, Tracey Maddison, the Regional committed and enthusiastic Board of Administrators and all the team at BIGGA Management, and I strongly believe House. the Association is heading in the right BTME in general is on the up and up, “BIGGA was invited to support the Gleneagles direction. and I’ve heard so many comments about Education is booming, with Continue not only how the show is buzzing but also team and the volunteer greenkeepers at The to Learn going from strength to strength, how approachable and professional the Ryder Cup for the whole week - for the first time” our revamped CPD system engaging BIGGA team are, so well done all. Who said... more members than ever before and even But it is important not to rest on seminars presented to greenkeepers our laurels, the industry is constantly “Microlite is one of the All too soon, it’s time for me to business as well as meetings with England to positive results. John Deere, Toro and during the Ryder Cup. changing as was shown by the IOG’s best fertilizers I have put together my final Chairman’s Golf and local section representatives. Ransomes Jacobsen are returning to The Future Turf Managers’ Initiative recent decision to move the date of Saltex Word column. It has been a truly On Tuesday evening I headed home, BTME 2015. The Board has concluded a is really making its mark as the third and relocate it. ever used” unforgettable year, and it’s been an then on Wednesday I spent the day comprehensive governance review and the event approaches, the GIS Show sees BTME 2015 is bound to be emotional absolute privilege to meet so many working at Chippenham. I was at work most successful set of accounts for years the opportunity for further education for for me as I hand over to Les Howkins members of BIGGA, industry partners again Thursday morning, before leaving at have been recorded. some members and other events such MG, Course Manager at The Richmond and valued clients. lunchtime to head to Milton Keynes for the The Ryder Cup at Gleneagles stands as the GCSAI Conference demonstrated Golf Club. I am sure he will be a brilliant It has been an incredibly busy year, IOG Conference and Awards in partnership out, and the fact BIGGA was invited to how vital education is becoming (thanks Chairman. an enormous amount of time has been with BIGGA where I had the privilege of support the committed team and the to their president Michael McFeely and See you in January for what is sure taken up on general board business and in accepting one of the Awards on behalf volunteer greenkeepers on site for the his wife Liz for their fabulous hospitality to be another memorable BTME…and representing the Association. of Ian Kinley, Course Manager at Royal whole week - for the first time - shows during our time in Dublin). I also feel we’ve sadly my last week as Chairman. I will be I’ve loved the experiences and meeting Porthcawl. how our recognition in the industry is really strengthened our relationships spending more time at Chippenham – I new people, but I’d like to share my I left early the next day to return to increasing. What a fabulous week. The with the likes of the GCSAI, FEGGA and don’t know if that’s a relief to the team schedule for the first week of December as Chippenham, totalling 620 miles driven same could be said of The Open at Royal GCSAA. there or not! We’ve had a good year, an example of how busy it has been. for the week, and worked the weekend to Liverpool. The BIGGA Open Support Team I’ve tried to get around as many of opened new holes for play, we’re now I left home at 6.30am on a Sunday ensure the course was where I wanted it to really stood out, not just because of their the Regions and Sections as possible – preparing to install a bore hole, and I to drive up to Woodhall Spa Golf Club, be. As I’ve said, there are many fantastic brightly coloured shirts on some of the apologies to those I’ve missed. I’ve enjoyed have to say I am looking forward to more headquarters of England Golf, for our benefits to being BIGGA Chairman, but days, but because of their commitment, the Regional Conferences and various hands-on greenkeeping in 2015. final Board of Management meeting for the time spent away from home, and long professionalism…and a real sense of fun Section events. Thanks to all the members hours travelling should not be overlooked! and enjoyment too. who go out of their way and use their 2014. Contact details We had 48 hours of Governance, All the hard work from the Board, and Hard greenkeeping work came to the own time to organise golf days, seminars Email Chris at [email protected] Strategic Planning and regular Board everyone involved with BIGGA, has led fore during the BMW PGA Championship and fundraising events and I’d urge you or contact him direct on 07817 294632
6 GI JANUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd JANUARY 2015 GI 7 BTME 2015_Layout 1 15/12/2014 12:02 Page 2
BIGGA AND JACOBSEN POSTER CAMPAIGN NEThe latest newsWSD from around theE globeSK Within this edition of GI you will find the first of four posters we will be issuing throughout 2015 aiming to educate golfers at your club. WINTER PLAY GI The posters, supported by BIGGA ON GOLF TRIBUTES TO MIKE BEARDALL Partner Jacobsen, are intended for BIGGA members to place in their GREENS Everyone at BIGGA was saddened to clubhouse notice boards to explain to hear of the death of Mike Beardall, members and visitors why greenkeepers former editor of The Groundsman aerate, topdress, put winter greens in magazine. place…all topical issues through the year. An avuncular and cheerful figure, Mike Each poster is designed to be was a terrific supporter of many of the eye-catching and informative, containing industry’s events including BTME, and briefly summarised key points on hugely popular and well-respected among greenkeeping projects during the the turf industry press. seasons. Pitchcare’s Peter Britton has written the This follows on from the success of our following tribute: recent Pitchmarks poster which raised “It is with much sadness that we inform awareness in clubs of this serious issue, The use of temporary greens preserves the you of the passing of Mike Beardall, and became very visible on social media. surfaces of the main greens and provides an the former editor of The Groundsman Remember this is still available to acceptable alternative to closing the course download by clicking on the ‘Education’ • Frozen plant tissues are easily bruised by • Bruised and damaged grass is at greater magazine. golfer’s feet and are identi ed by black risk of disease attack tab on the BIGGA website and visiting the “Tofootprints help BIGGA members• Playing on severely educate frozen or wet greens “Mike began his career in journalism • Long-term damage can take place when may lead to a thinning of grass cover working on the Banbury Guardian ‘Pitchmarks’ tab on the left hand side. theirplay resumesclub after members a sudden thaw on the importance in Oxfordshire, and worked on other Commenting on the poster initiative, ofThe maintenance decision to play on procedures winter greens is andnever takenthe lightly - the above factors are always taken into consideration newspapers as a reporter, feature writer Karen Proctor, Ransomes Jacobsen’s effects on the long-term playability of and, later, production editor of Surrey recently appointed Marketing their courses, we are delighted to sponsor and South London Newspapers Ltd. and Communications Manager – the production and distribution of these “In the Eighties he joined the Daily International said: “One of the most posters. This is further evidence of our Mail group as a sub-editor on Weekend contentious issues between club continued support of BIGGA and its members and the greenkeeping team is members.” magazine, later becoming chief www.ransomesjacobsen.com www.bigga.org.uk sub-editor. In 1982, he worked on the course maintenance and the perceived or If you have any feedback regarding launch of the Mail on Sunday, and also actual disruption to the playing surfaces the posters please contact steve.castle@ undertook sub-editing on the Sunday that it involves. MJ14-068 Winter Greens poster.inddbigga.co.uk 1 16/12/2014 15:40 Express, Daily Express and the Daily Star. “In 1987, he became editor of the GREENKEEPER Middlesex Chronicle and deputy group editor of Surrey and West London JOINS BAYER Newspapers Ltd. In 1990, he became editor of the West Sussex Gazette and, Bayer has appointed Greg Collins Who uses... in 1991, as managing editor of Merlin as National Account Manager for Publications Ltd, launched a national Environmental Science in Ireland. He Impact XP linemarking business magazine for homeworkers brings with him 17 years of practical called Home Business followed, in 1992, hands-on experience. paint on a by a magazine for small businesses called Greenkeeping is in his blood. world renowned Your Business. Choosing to follow in the footsteps of “In 1995, Mike launched Oakfield his two brothers by starting his career sporting arena Media, offering a full publishing, public as a greenkeeper, he went to study at relations and media training service. He Elmwood College in Scotland in was part of the team providing media 1992. training programmes for EMAP and other Greg then moved to Germany to work magazine publishing groups. as an assistant greenkeeper for two years “As part of his publishing portfolio and for a further three years as head he became editor of The Groundsman, greenkeeper at Schloss Schwobber Golf the official magazine of the Institute of Hotel. He then returned to Ireland where is a great opportunity, and I’m looking Groundsmanship – a post he held for he was head greenkeeper for 11 years at forward to getting into my new role, and eleven years, until December 2006. Charleville GC, Cork. working with the team and supporting “In recent years, Mike occupied He will be managing all commercial our key partners. his time by producing newsletters “Mike was a ‘gentle’ man in every sense “He was the consummate professional products and working with Bayer’s “My previous experience will provide and public relations material for a of the word, He handled adversity in both and will be sorely missed by all who distributors in Ireland, providing both a thorough understanding of the number of companies, including P&O, his business and private life with dignity knew him. advice and expertise. greenkeeper’s and groundsman’s The Fowler Group, DJ Turfcare and and always made himself available to “All of our thoughts at this time are On his new appointment, Greg said role; enabling me to offer the very Speedcut Contractors, as well as writing industry colleagues, with the minimum with his son Ben, his daughter Kate and there is a strong team dynamic at Bayer best technical support and advice to assignments for consumer and trade of fuss, when support and assistance was two young grandchildren, Harmony and an exciting career path ahead. “This customers.” magazines and newspapers. required. and Ed.”
8 GI JANUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd JANUARY 2015 GI 9 BTME 2015_Layout 1 15/12/2014 12:02 Page 3 GI NEWSDESK GREENKEEPERS HONOURED AT IOG AWARDS
FLAXBY COURSE TO CLOSE Recently, the 11-strong greenkeeping has worked hard and put in a great deal staff at The Flaxby Park Golf & Country of time and effort into developing and Club, located close to Harrogate, North improving the course. In 2014, many Yorkshire were informed that the 27-hole members and guests commented that the facility will close permanently from March course was in the best condition it has 31 2015. ever been, reflecting the sustained level It has been reported that the owners of of commitment to mature the course over the site are planning to build 2,500 homes the past decade. on the location. Daniel, who was involved in the The main course, which opened in construction and growing in stages prior 2004, was sown with creeping bent to the course opening in 2004, and his greens and was billed as one of the finest experienced, qualified and dedicated in the country. Ambitious plans to host team, are now looking for employment European tour events and even a Ryder options as they prepare to close the course Cup were made. for good at the end of March. Golf Course Superintendent Daniel If anyone is interested in employing Burrows and his team are naturally very any of the team, please contact disappointed with the news; the team [email protected] The winners of the inaugural awards of the Year award with Ben Evans from variety of species on to the site. As a for golf greenkeeping excellence have Altrincham Golf Club. qualified beekeeper, he has established been announced at the Institute Stuart (pictured) became Head hives on the course and trained other of Groundsmanship (IOG) annual Greenkeeper at Dunstanburgh Castle, course managers in this area. Industry Awards, in partnership with a links course on the North East coast BIGGA CEO Jim Croxton said: “BIGGA BIGGA. situated on National Trust land, aged 18. was thrilled to be invited by the IOG In a prestigious awards ceremony at Managing a small and equally youthful to be part of the awards evening. The Milton Keynes’ stadiummk attended by greenkeeping team on a tight budget, he’s opportunity to celebrate greenkeeping more than 380 of the UK’s and Europe’s implemented an ambitious and progressive achievements is always welcome and to do leading groundscare experts, as well as action plan to ensure excellent surfaces all so at such an august occasion was a huge dignitaries from the governing bodies of year round. plus. Who achieves... sport and influential sports administrators, Ian Kinley and team at Royal Porthcawl “The three winners in the BIGGA the winners of the three golf categories pipped Scott Fenwick, Steve Chappell and categories demonstrated great skill, huge Great success with were: the Gleneagles Ryder Cup greenkeeping passion and extraordinary commitment to BIGGA BASF/Sherriff Amenity Young team to the Baroness Championship providing excellent surfaces for golfers of R9 seed on an Greenkeeper of the Year - Stuart Imeson, Greenkeeping Performance of the Year. all levels. internationally Dunstanburgh Castle Golf Club In January and February this year, “The range of facilities nominated also BIGGA Baroness Championship Royal Porthcawl on the South Wales coast vividly showed the incredibly diverse acclaimed ground Greenkeeping Performance of the Year - Ian was so badly affected by flooding that at nature of the greenkeeping industry. Kinley and the team at Royal Porthcawl the height of the bad weather the first Congratulations to all the winners and Golf Club three holes were under ten feet of water. nominees in all the categories.” BIGGA Ransomes Jacobsen This was just a few months prior to the IOG chief executive Geoff Webb added: Greenkeeping Achievement of the Year - British Senior Open, yet the team pulled “We are particularly pleased that this year Edward Ainsworth from Avro Golf Club together and the tournament took place as BIGGA has worked with us to promote The IOG annual Industry Awards, scheduled to great praise from organisers excellence in greenkeeping, to mirror the in partnership with BIGGA, recognise and competitors alike. high standards of groundsmanship that leadership, innovation and outstanding Edward Ainsworth contested the the IOG Industry Awards have showcased achievement across every aspect of Ransomes Jacobsen Greenkeeping for the past six years. groundscare – from grassroots pitches Achievement of the Year award with Rhys “All award winners demonstrate the to professional stadia from both the Butler from Royal St David’s Golf Club. skill and dedication of the teams and NEW SCOTTISH CHAIRMAN professional and volunteer sector. Edward is leading the way in individuals who - week in, week out in all The new Scottish Chairman is Jim Paton, Head Greenkeeper at West Kilbride Golf This year, for the first time, three golf environmentally sustainable course weathers - make such a vital contribution Club. Jim, from the South West of Scotland (formerly Ayrshire) section takes over greenkeeping categories were added. management, promoting diverse wildlife to sport.” the reins from Andy O’Hara. During the handover, Jim paid a glowing tribute to Stuart Imeson contested the BASF/ through creating several new wildflower Congratulations to the winners, and to Andy and added that he hopes to continue his good work over the next few years. Sherriff Amenity Young Greenkeeper areas. This has helped encourage a huge all the greenkeepers who were nominated.
10 GI JANUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd JANUARY 2015 GI 11 GI NEWSDESK
Turfcare Equipment
NEW MAN AT NEWQUAY Congratulations to Dan Kendle who has been appointed Head Greenkeeper at Newquay GC. Dan makes the move to the Cornish links course from TOP LINE UP AT SCOTTISH CONFERENCE Woodhall Spa Golf Club, where he has worked as a greenkeeper The Scottish Conference will be held on After lunch our chairman Jim Paton will since March 2000. Six years Tuesday 3 March at the Carnegie Conference provide his address and will present a small ago he became First Assistant Centre, Dunfermline. We have another token of congratulations to our Toro Student of Greenkeeper at the Hotchkin fantastic line up this year and remember that 6 the Year candidate. Course at Woodhall. CPD credits are available to those that The stars and stripes will be out again when He said: “I used to live in attend! Dr Stan Kostka presents ‘Getting the Balance the Cornwall area and this Firstly Gordon Irvine MG will discuss the Right’. Stan works with another of our patrons, seemed the perfect opportunity ‘Discovery of Askernish’, a true hidden gem on Farmura Environmental, and we are delighted to return, I’m really looking the Island of South Uist. This is a unique part to have him come along on the day to present. forward to making my mark. of golfing history and is sure to be interesting to Finally, we all know that the European “The location is stunning with all delegates. Team successfully defended the Ryder Cup a nice course set-up. The greens This year, the conference has a distinctive at Gleneagles in 2014 so what would be are good, mainly bent-fescue, American theme. Our next presenter is better than to have Steve Chappell, Head but I think they can be improved Carmen Magro who will provide a talk titled Greenkeeper return to give us his thoughts on even further. There is a lot of ‘Perfecting your Rootzone to Optimise Turfgrass the success of the week and what challenges competition from other courses Performance and Health’. cropped up along the way! nearby so it’s vital that our Our thanks to Greentech (Scotland) for Further details on the conference can be standards are high.I’m a big arranging Carmen’s participation in the found on the BIGGA and Scottish Region’s believer in basic greenkeeping conference. websites, including the booking form. principles so there will be Robert Patterson from Royal Aberdeen Alternatively contact John Young, Regional plenty of hollow coring and Golf Club will close the morning session by Administrator via email on johnyoung@bigga. overseeding. It’s a big change providing his views on his club’s successful co.uk for further details. from Woodhall Spa, but I’m holding of the Scottish Open in 2014. John Young relishing the challenge.”
DUMFRIES AND GALLOWAY TURF CLUB Members in the Dumfries & Galloway area recently created a Turf Club that will arrange regular get-togethers to maximise education To see the very latest high quality golf course opportunities and increase mowing equipment visit Baroness on Stand B78, engagement with the Hall B association. A course walk was arranged BTME 2015, 20 - 22 January 2015 at Southerness Golf Club Baroness mowers - Quality on Demand! on 19 November with 23 in attendance. They were treated to a short presentation by Dave Woodbyrne (Head Greenkeeper) and a tour of the course focusing on the work that the greens team www.baronessuk.com have completed to target some drainage issues.
Kyoeisha UK Ltd. a subsidiary of Tel: 01256 461591 Kyoeisha Co. Ltd. of Japan 12 GI JANUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd Find us at BTME Stand M9 Membership The latest news News from BIGGA DONATIONS ROLL IN FOR THE BIGGA BENEVOLENT FUND A huge thank you to the Sussex section who raised £750 for the Contact Details BIGGA Greenkeepers Benevolent Fund – which we will again be Tracey Maddison General Manager raising money for at BTME. traceymaddison@ The section’s final event of 2014 bigga.co.uk was held at Worthing Golf Club Elaine Jones with an excellent turnout of 83, and Membership Executive [email protected] the proceeds from the day’s raffle Rachael Duffy added to other raffles throughout Events & Membership the year allowed them to make the Executive generous donation. The cheque [email protected] Tel: 01347 833800 was presented to BIGGA CEO Jim (option 1 for Membership) Croxton by South East Regional Administrator Clive Osgood. You can follow BIGGA on Sussex are just one of the Twitter @BIGGALtd sections who have raised an impressive amount of cash for the Fund in 2014. BIGGA Sussex Section secretary Pete Regional Offices Smith said: “The money raised for this extremely worthy cause is a Scotland tremendous effort from all of the & N. Ireland guys that have attended events John Young 07776 242120 this year. [email protected] “Their support has been Northern fantastic in 2014 and they’ve dug Sandra Raper deep into their pockets every time 07866 366966 [email protected] we’ve come round rattling tins! @sandra4bigganor “We have been building the Midland section back up and now have over Roger Butler Nestled on a seaside perch in the It’s no surprise that Castle Stuart 30 people attending every event.” 07525 593 359 Scottish Highlands, Castle Stuart uses the Jacobsen ECLIPSE 322 on [email protected] Pete added that any help within KING OF THE Golf Links is a truly extraordinary golf their greens. Because when you’re the Section is always welcome South East destination. Home of the 2011, 2012 Scottish golf royalty, only the best turf a say on what happens in the Many sections have already Clive Osgood and urged anyone interested in Section, this will benefit everybody. raised funds in 2014 which shows 01737 819343 and 2013 Scottish Open, the course equipment will do. social, educational or golf events to 07841 948410 Our door is always open.” excellent support from the BIGGA [email protected] debuted at No. 56 on Golf Magazine’s contact him. Anyone wanting to help the Membership. Also thanks to the @cliveosgood Top 100 Courses in the World list. For more information about He said: “We have a four-man Section please contact Pete on many individual contributors who Jacobsen products, visit committee and we’re keen to hear South West & 07748 776761 or have also donated through their South Wales www.jacobsen.com. fresh ideas and for people to have [email protected] membership renewals. Tracey Harvey CASTLE 07841 948110 [email protected] GREENKEEPERS’ BENEVOLENT FUND NEW BIGGA We will again be collecting donations to the BIGGA Greenkeepers OTHER USEFUL Benevolent Fund at BTME – show your support to this extremely DATABASE NUMBERS worthy cause by purchasing a green wristband. (Full Members only) Please note that we are For a minimum donation of £2, you can contribute by buying a hoping for our new database Personal Accident Helpline wristband from the BIGGA Stand B23, in the Queen’s Suite during 0207 2048952 FOR A LEGENDARY PERFORMANCE to go live in the new year, so Continue to Learn and there will also be collection tins placed around Greenkeepers Legal please bear with us regarding ON YOUR COURSE, CALL 01473 270000 the Halls inviting donations. Assistance any delay in the processing 0800 177 7891 BIGGA has identified the need for such a Fund to assist current or of membership renewals and Lifestyle Counselling Helpline past members and their dependents who have suffered hardship - www.ransomesjacobsen.com application forms. Thank you. 0844 770 1036 financial or otherwise – so please donate if you can. www.arclegal.co.uk/carefirst GI/CS1/01/2015
14 GI JANUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd
GI CS1 BTME.indd 1 11/12/2014 14:56 www.advancedtt.com L&D News SOON TO BE REVEALED The latest from the Learning and THE NEW KID ON THE BLOCK
Development department at BIGGA The INFiNiSystem™ already gives more functionality than the competition in a pedestrian unit, and is the only one capable of battery power. The new 30” sets to continue that superiority. Learning & Development and training, supported by funding your future. News has the latest updates our BIGGA Partners, BIGGA Contact the Learning & See the real thing at BTME 2015 on The Grass Group stand, A35. on CPD and everything related Education Supporters and Development team at BIGGA to greenkeeper education Individual Contributors – House for more information. SMART cassettes for ultimate turf 10 management LEE SAYERS IS LATEST BIGGA Power sources for maximum MASTER GREENKEEPER 2 flexibility Machine widths, Congratulations to Lee Sayers, 22”, 26” and 30” for Course Manager at Mid Kent Golf 3 more productivity Club, who is BIGGA’s 65th Master Greenkeeper. It caps a wonderful few weeks for Lee as he’s also been selected TM to join the latest BIGGA Delegation sponsored by Bernhard Grinders so will be heading to the Golf Industry Show in Texas. Lee began studying for the Master Greenkeeper Certificate in March 2013 and passed his case study earlier this year, but unfortunately failed his technical exam. He recently retook this and has now been awarded the title ‘MG’. He said: “I’m really pleased because I worked very hard to get through the process. I’m 45 and I’ve got three kids so it was a case of locking myself away for a couple of hours every night whilst I got stuck into the books. “It’s nearly 20 years since I sat down and took an exam so it was a tough challenge, but I’m delighted all the hard work has paid off. I did The Master Greenkeeper Certifi cate is awarded to those it for my own benefit, I wanted to greenkeeper members of BIGGA who have reached the highest do something to improve myself, Individual Contributors: Steven standards of greenkeeping and golf course management. and I feel I’ve proved that age is no Tierney MG, Chris Lomas MG, Andrew Campbell MG CGCS, W barrier. It’s been hugely rewarding, J Rogers, Sam Langrick, Espen It is a prestigious industry award gained by and I’m a better greenkeeper for Bergmann, Nick Gray, Steve Dixon, · Experience as a greenkeeper Richard McGlynn, Douglas Duguid, doing it.” Jaey Goodchild, Michael Beaton, · Through formal and informal training Lee added that his fellow green David Barker, Greg Evans, Frank · Golf course management assessment Newberry staff, members and board of · A rigorous, two-part examination directors at the club are hugely Contact Details proud of his achievement and I took locally thanks to Hadlow of weeks” that greenkeeping was All Full, Associate and International Sami Strutt members of BIGGA are eligible to join backed him all the way. College. I would also like to thank what he wanted to do. He moved Head of Member “Several MGs I spoke to my family and friends for all their on to another Australian course - Development and earn Stage 1 Credits. Applicants 07818 405606 must be Course Managers during the process were all very support.” Cottesloe - before returning to the [email protected] (Superintendents)/Head Greenkeepers encouraging, especially Dan Lee left school at 16 and had UK and joining Royal Blackheath. Stuart Green to progress to Stages 2 and 3. McGrath MG who really set me on brief careers in banking and He then spent four years at The Head of Member Learning my way when I was considering the advertising before emigrating to London Golf Club before securing [email protected] Do you have what it takes? Download an undertaking. Australia with his wife aged his first Head Greenkeeper role at @Stuart_BIGGA George Pitts application form at www.bigga.org.uk by “The team at BIGGA House 21. Hemsted Forest Golf Club. Deb Burnett Master Greenkeeper clicking on Education. were always on hand to answer He took a greenkeeping role at He then returned to The London L&D Administrator [email protected] any questions and assist with the a course called Rangeview and Club before joining Mid Kent as 01347 833800 (option 3) inspection and exam details which said he realised “within a couple Course Manager in 2003. www.bigga.org.uk
GI13_MG_1.2_v2.indd 2 13/06/2013 12:01
16 GI JANUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd JANUARY 2015 GI 17 L&D NEWS
CPD NEARS 1000 We’re delighted to announce that we are approaching 1,000 members using CPD. At the time of going to press, 944 members were engaged with our revamped CPD programme and we also have 165 CPD Approved members. Stuart Green, BIGGA’s Head of Member Learning, said: “These figures show a massive increase in the take up of the new CPD BARONESS LEVEL 3 programme. “This reflects how much more SCHOLARSHIPS REMINDER FTMI DEADLINE NEARS accessible CPD is and also how The latest Baroness Level 3 Scholarship has been awarded to a Don’t forget that you only have until 30 Communications, budgeting, leadership, members are realising CPD is a groundsman – Craig Carolan from Warwick University. January to apply for the Future Turf Managers team management, CV Writing and interview very valuable tool in their career The kind support from Baroness means that you can get financial Initiative 2015, made possible by Jacobsen. techniques and volunteering. development. support to study a Level 3 Diploma in Work-based Horticulture (Sports To put yourself forward for this fantastic A nominator will be required to validate all “We’re now hoping to break the Turf - Greenkeeper) or an SVQ Level 3 Sports Turf Management. educational opportunity visit www. applications, and a panel from BIGGA and 1,000 barrier very soon which SCHOLARSHIPS BIGGA member Craig said: “Because of my role as a Deputy Head surveymonkey.com/s/FTMI15-Applicant. Jacobsen will select the successful would be a real milestone for the Groundsman I feel the Level 3 will provide me with more knowledge in Congratulations to Robert McDowell of Wishaw Golf The application will take around 15-20 delegates. programme.” my current position and also with my career progression.” Club who has become the latest recipient of a Higher minutes to complete. Only BIGGA members can apply, and For more on CPD, and if you For more details on Baroness Scholarships, and all of our Funding Education Scholarship supported by Jacobsen. FTMI 2015 will take place on 24-26 March applications will only be taken via the link have any questions, please Opportunities, visit the BIGGA website, click on the ‘Education’ tab and Robert will be studying a HND in Golf Course Managa- 2015 at Ransomes Jacobsen’s Ipswich HQ, and above. If you require any further information, contact the L&D Team or email scroll down to ‘Funding Opportunities’ on the left hand side. ment with Elmwood College through distance learning. subjects include: please email [email protected] [email protected] Application forms can be found in the member’s area of the website.
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Syngenta UK Ltd. Registered in England No. 849037. CPC4, Capital Park, Fulbourn, Cambridge CB21 5XE E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.greencast.co.uk Medallion TL® is a Registered Trademark of a Syngenta Group Company. Medallion TL (MAPP 15287, PCS 04188) contains fludioxonil. All other brand names used are trademarks of other manufacturers in which proprietary rights may exist. Use plant protection products safely. Always read the label and product information before use. For further product information including warning phrases and symbols refer to www.greencast.co.uk. ©Syngenta AG September 2014. GQ 05648. 18 GI JANUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd JANUARY 2015 GI 19 Distributed in the UK and Ireland by Everris Limited, Tel: 0844 8094470 Email: [email protected] Web: www.everris.com PREFeaVItuEreW PREVIEW A look ahead to the BIGGA Turf Management Exhibition in Harrogate, 20-22 January 2015 20-22 JanUARY 2015
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18-21 JanUARY 2015 Welcome Celebration Driving & ParkingWe’re delighted in to Harrogate announce that this year’s How to find us Welcome Celebration keynote speaker is BBC sports broadcaster Andrew Cotter. How to find the Harrogate Harrogate is located centrally on the UK map with ready access Andrew has commentated on many prominent Around Harrogate to London and Edinburgh. A first-class motorway network, golf events for the BBC since 2000 including International Centre OnceE you’veat outarrived in Harrogate, moving about town and mainline rail, sea and 24-hour air links ensure that Harrogate is The Ryder Cup, The Open, The Masters and The visitingSome nearby fine eateries towns in and villages couldn’t be easier with ableHarrogate to offer is located all the centrally benefits on the expected UK map withof a ready truly access global location. Harrogate’sHarrogate versatile – booking andis regularWomen’s public Open. transport network. Parking at to London and Edinburgh. He has also kept viewers and listeners entertained For morerecommended information and to view bus timetables visit HarrogateA first-class has motorway excellent network, rail and mainline air links rail, seawith and regular train and informed during the Olympics, the Paralympics, services to and from London King’s Cross via York and Leeds www.harrogateanddistrict.co.ukB.E.D. 24-hour air links ensure that Harrogate is able to offer all the tennis and rugby. (www.nationalrail.co.uk) and Leeds Bradford International Modern English benefits expected of a truly global location. He’s sure to be an enlightening and entertaining Airport is only 20 minutes from Harrogate with a regular bus Tel: 01423 568600 Harrogate has excellent rail and air links with regular train Disc Zone... what it meansspeaker to round off an evening celebrating the best service into Harrogate. For details about travelling to Harrogate Harrogate services to and from London King’s Cross via York and Leeds bed.ltd.uk of the greenkeeping industry. You need to display a parking disc in your by(www.nationalrail.co.uk) public transport visit and Lwww.transportdirect.infoeeds Bradford International Entry to the Welcome Celebration is FREE, and windscreen. Discs are free of charge and Airport is only 20 minutes from Harrogate with a regular bus Bistro Pierre it will take place in the Royal Hall ofP the Harrogate available from HIC Reception, Box Office, service into Harrogate. French International Centre on Tuesday 20 January at 5.30pm. Car local shops, hotels, tourist information and DISC ZONE For details about travelling to Harrogate by public transport Tel: 01423 533070 2 Hours International From London: councillebistrotpierre.co.uk/ offices. Take note of the time limit, No return visit www.transportdirect.info within 24 hours M1 - A1(M) - J47 signposted Knaresborough and then follow this varieslocations/harrogate throughout the town centre. By Car From London: ZONE N1 the Harrogate signs. The town centre is divided intoD Ozones,W NLOAD M1 - A1(M) - J47 signposted Knaresborough and then follow you mayCattlemens not park in the same zone more Fromthe Harrogate the North: signs. A1 - J47 signposted Knaresborough and then Tex Mex followFrom the the North:Harrogate A1 - J47 signs. signposted Knaresborough and Centre than once during any 24-hour period. Tel: 01423 561456 THE BTME APP Fromthen follow the theEast: HarrogateM621- signs. A1(M) - J47 signposted Knaresborough cattlemens.co.uk andFrom then the follow East: M the621- Harrogate A1(M) - J47 signpostedsigns. Blue Badge Holders Knaresborough and then follow the Harrogate signs. From the West: M56 - M62 - A1(M) - J47 signposted BlueC Badgehez la Vie Holders can park free of charge in all of the From the West: M56 - M62 - A1(M) - J47 signposted Knaresborough and then follow the Harrogate signs. and in the town centre Council’sFrench Off Street car parks and On Street car parking bays. Knaresborough and then follow the Harrogate signs. The Tel:Blue 01423 Badge 568018 must be displayed so that the Badge Number and chezlavie.comExpiry Date are visible. There is no time limit. THE SHOW OF THE YEAR Newcastle Over one hundred exhibitors For up to date news from the more, including more on our unrivalled BlueDrum Badge & M onkeyHolders can park free of charge and for a maximum are once again preparing to For updates on exhibitors, including new products, Continue to Learn Education of 3 Seafoodhours on single or double yellow lines providing the vehicle A1 (M) descend on Harrogate for the BTME 2015 follow new innovations and competitions Programme. is notTel: causing 01423 502650 an obstruction to other road users or pedestrians. M6 turf exhibition which kickstarts us on Twitter @ which will all be featuring at BTME It also contains a full list of exhibitors A validdrumandmonkey.co.uk Blue Badge must be displayed as detailed above along each new year in the industry. BIGGALtd, and 2015, visit www.btme.org.uk, click on alongside their Stand numbers – and with a parking disc showing time of arrival. Harrogate The Harrogate International Centre use the hashtag the tab on the ‘Media’ tab on the left, simply flick over to the next double Harrogate Brasserie Leeds York is again the location for BTME 2015, #BTME2015 then click on ‘Press Releases’. page spread for the full Hall plans. PleaseEnglish check all signs and roadDon’t markings forget to download when parking the BTME 2015 app ✈ M62 which runs from 20-22 January 2015. The website is also an excellent The opening times for BTME 2015 yourTel: vehicle. 01423 505041 which is available to download for iPhone, iPad M18 Dozens of familiar names from port of call for anything else you’d are 9am-5pm on Tuesday 20 January harrogatebrasserie.co.uk and Android devices! This is the quick and simple Manchester every corner of the industry are joining like to know about the exhibition from and Wednesday 21 January, and way to keep up to date with Europe’s premier turf M1 new exhibitors in a literal A-Z of turf Media to Travel and Accommodation 9am-4pm on Thursday 22 January. Bus LStopsucia’s exhibition on your smartphone. management. and Useful Contacts…and much Don’t forget there is still time to AlongItalian busy roads an illegally parkedFeatures vehicleinclude: E canvent infodelay / E xhibitor50 Where else can you visit exhibitors pre-register for the exhibition and avoid peopleTel: 01423travelling 500071 on a bus. Vehiclesinformation parked / Speaker illegally details / oftenHall plans / Full who cover aeration, club management, the queues. preventluciawinebar.co.uk/ buses and larger vehiclesagenda offrom the weekmanoeuvring / Sponsors detailssafely Birmingham drainage, education, fencing, Simply visit www.btme.org.uk and and harrogatecan restrict the driver’s vision...You can please also create let yourbuses own use Calendar them! which BIGGA click on the ‘register now’ icon on the will ensure you don’t miss anything during what is grinders, health and safety, irrigation, Please note we are not running a park and ride or hopper right hand side. William and Victoria sure to be another packed week. The Harrogate landscaping, mowers, pest control, TURF service this year. Dragon Road Car Park will be available from We look forward to seeing you for PenaltyEnglish Charges (PCN) International Centre boasts free wi-fi access renewable energies, spraying, tractors Tuesday to Thursday with limited free parking for exhibitors MANAGEMENT what is sure to be another memorable A PenaltyTel: 01423 Charge 521510 Notice willwhich be issued will enable for delegates any vehicle to access the internet and waste management, to give you and visitors on a first come first served basis just a small flavour of what to expect? EXHIBITION week in Harrogate. contraveningwilliamandvictoria.com the traffic regulations.throughout There the week. are two levels of charges, £50 and £70. If paid within 14 days these will be King’s Road, Harrogate HG1 5LA Telephone: +44 (0)1423 500500 reduced to £25 and £35. Email: [email protected] Avoid the queues - pre-register for BTME 2015 - www.btme.org.uk DetailsFor on morehow and where news to pay and a Penalty updates Charge will be follow BIGGAwww.harrogateinternationalcentre.co.uk on Twitter @BIGGALtd given on the back of the PCN together with a payment slip. Designed by www.chilli-uk.com 20 GI JANUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd JANUARY 2015 GI 21 BIGGA TURF MANAGEMENT EXHIBITION
A1 Agronomic Services A28 Amenity Sales A59 Soil Harmony B19 Britrisk Safety Ltd B48 charterhouse Turf C12 Turfkeeper.com C48 complete Weed Control M9 ransomes Jacobsen A2 Vitax A29 Aquarille A60 Countrywide B23 British & International Golf Machinery Ltd C14 JUB Holland C49 Verde Sports Ltd M10 Better Billy Bunker A5 DENNIS & SISIS A30 cleveland Sitesafe Ltd A61 Gambetti UK Greenkeepers Association B50 Eagle C15 Highspeed Group Ltd C50 Profusion Environmental Ltd M11 Barcham Trees Plc A6 mTS Golf & Utility Vehicles A31 Ultra Soil Solutions Ltd A63 Green-Tech Ltd B29 Greenkeepers Training B52 Syngenta C21 BMS C51 Aqua-Terra Europe M12 Durabunker Ltd A9 rain Bird Europe SNC A32 Hurrells Seeds B1 Grillo Agrigarden Ltd Committee (The) B54 everris Limited C22 GCOA & GRN-OGRO C52 Sibelco M14 GCSAA A10 ecosolve Ltd A34 Tarmac Topsport B2 Perrot B30 Delta-T Devices B56 lloyds / Hunters C23 Barenbrug UK Ltd C53 KUHN Amenity Pro M15 Golf Club Managers Association A11 Nomix Enviro A35 The Grass Group B5 Maxstim B31 HDK Electric Vehicles B58 campey Turf Care Systems C27 Hunter Industries C54 Bailoy Irrigation Controls M16 Toro - Lely (UK) Limited A12 custom Agronomics A45 Germinal Seeds GB B7 Symbio B32 Tines Direct B59 Trimax Mowing Systems C28 Talbot Farm C55 lastec UK M17 Sports Metals Ltd A16 Blec Global Ltd A46 Bayer B9 lindum Turf B34 Sherriff Amenity B78 Baroness Mowers C30 Headland Amenity Ltd C56 Double A / Tru-Turf M18 True-Bot.com A17 GREENACRES Artificial Grass A49 mJ Abbott Ltd B10 Humber Palmers Fertilisers B36 STRI C1 Huxley Golf C34 Netafim UK C58 Wiedenmann UK Ltd M19 Sports Maintenance A18 farmura Ltd A51 Tillers Turf B11 Sheltons Sportsturf Drainage B37 Ground2Control C2 Souters Sports Ltd C35 GBR Technology Limited C61 Wessex International M20 John Deere A19 Aquatrols A52 Spectrum Technologies Solutions B38 engo Group C4 Border Sports Services Ltd C37 Askham Bryan College C62 rigby Taylor Ltd M28 GGM Groundscare A20 Johnsons Sports Seed A54 EnviroMonitors B12 merrist Wood College B39 Bradshaw Golf Buggies C5 ecobunker Ltd C38 TurfCare M4 Bywater M29 Gianni Ferrari s.r.l. A22 european Turfgrass A55 Aitkens Sportsturf Ltd B13 myerscough College B42 Garfitts International Ltd C6 Yamaha Motor (UK) Ltd C39 limagrain UK M5 Turfdry Laboratories A56 Groundsman Industries Ltd B17 compo Expert UK Ltd B43 Indigrow Ltd C8 county Sport Surfaces C41 True Surface by Turfline M6 Perennial A23 crl - Clive Richardson Ltd A57 Inturf B18 Scotland’s Rural B44 Bernhard & Co Ltd C10 Green-Tech Ltd C42 Global Turf Equipment UK Ltd M7 Institute of Groundsmanship A27 maxicrop UK A58 Greentech Sportsturf Ltd College, Elmwood Campus B46 Waste2Water Europe Ltd C11 KAR UK Limited C47 XL Horticulture Ltd M8 Belchim Crop Protection Ltd
22 GI JANUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd JANUARY 2015 GI 23 PREFeaVItuEreW
NEW BENTGRASS BLEND FROM GERMINAL PRODUCTS Germinal will announce at BTME Focus on the new products on show at the that its new Browntop bentgrass BIGGA Turf Management Exhibition 2015 blend, AberMajesty – which offers greenkeepers improved disease resistance and year round visually stunning greens – is now available in the UK. AberMajesty is a blend of two home-bred Browntop bentgrasses, 60% AberRoyal and 40% AberRegal, and is the NEW FROM JACOBSEN latest addition to Germinal’s Grade ‘A’ range of golf-specific seed Following a review of their marketing strategy, Jacobsen have taken mixtures. the decision to return to BTME on an annual basis. Their policy will AberRegal is Germinal’s newest be to alternate between small and large stands, so for 2015 they will bentgrass cultivar, and follows have a limited presence, but will return in 2016 with a more significant hot on the heels of AberRoyal, the stand. UK’s first home-bred Browntop. The focus on Stand M9 will be the Jacobsen MP493 wide area The commercial release of rough mower, one of the first two machines in a series of new AberRegal has been eagerly mowers, manufactured at their European headquarters in Ipswich. anticipated in the UK as it offers The MP range, powered by 49hp and 65hp Kubota diesel engines, greenkeepers a greater choice of will eventually provide multiple mowing options from a single design UK-bred cultivars, and promises platform. improved shoot density, fineness The Jacobsen MP493 batwing mower features three, all new rotary of leaf and unrivalled winter and decks, manufactured from high strength, lightweight steel with a 150 summer greenness. mm break-back system on the wing decks help prevent damage. Bred at IBERS (the Institute Also on display will be the Jacobsen Eclipse2 petrol-electric hybrid of Biological, Environmental and walking greens mower with frequency of cut technology that provides Rural Sciences in Aberystwyth) unrivalled consistent mowing across all greens. as part of the institution’s UK-based amenity seed breeding programme, AberRegal was bred from material originally collected from Kent. As such, it perfectly complements AberRoyal which Stand was originally sourced from West M9 Wales. “AberRegal and AberRoyal work well together by offering a blend of bentgrasses which will thrive on soil and sand based greens anywhere in the UK,” explained Richard Brown, Amenity Sales Manager for Germinal. “It provides greenkeepers with Stand improved genetic diversity and a A45 sward with higher overall disease resistance against key threats material was collected from initial performance. “We started AberRoyal, AberRegal and such as Red Thread and Fusarium. Marden Meadow in Kent in using AberRoyal at The Chase five AberMajesty are available “AberMajesty is also the 1995. “Since then, a long series years ago to improve the quality exclusively via Germinal. The perfect solution for year-round of selections have been made of our greens,” he explains. “It’s recommended sowing rate is 8 to golf courses where visually to enhance the cultivar’s turf been a consistent performer for us 12g/m2 (80 to 120kgs/ha). The stunning greens are demanded by performance,” she says. “It has but we are always on the lookout recommended overseeding rate is players, even during the depths been extensively tested at the for new cultivars to avoid creating 5 to 8g/m2 (50 to 80kgs/ha). of winter when the ability to Sports Turf Research Institute a mono-culture of grasses. We BTME competition: fertilise for enhanced greenness (STRI) and has subsequently were therefore eager to add to celebrate the launch of is not possible. By combining achieved National List registration. AberRegal to our own list of AberMajesty, Germinal is holding AberRoyal’s winter and summer AberRegal was selected for its cultivars. a spot-the-ball competition at greenness scores of 6.8 and 6.6 characteristic density of turf, “We over-seeded a number BTME, with a first prize for one with AberRegal at 6.9 and 6.9, disease resistance and longevity of greens with AberMajesty at lucky winner and a guest to attend greenkeepers can be confident to produce a high quality, 100% the end of last summer and have the 2015 Open Championship at their greens will remain as verdant British variety.” been suitably impressed by how St Andrews on 19 July 2015. The as possible throughout the entire Long-time AberRoyal user, it has performed. It germinated full prize includes two tickets to year.” Simon White, Course Manager extremely reliably and has watch this final day’s play, plus a AberRegal was bred by Sheena at The Chase Golf Club in established itself fantastically complete hospitality package for Duller, Research Scientist and Staffordshire, has already used well, adding a greater depth of the day including a complimentary Plant Breeder at IBERS, who AberMajesty and has been greenness and consistency to our bar and food. For a chance to win, explains that the original plant pleased with the new mixture’s greens.” visit Germinal on Stand A45.
24 GI JANUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd JANUARY 2015 GI 25 PREFeaVItuEreW
NEW LINE-UP FOR VITAX Supaturf’s new line-up of marking machines which will be on Stand display on Stand A2 features the TXE 606 and 353, delivering A2 enhanced performance and even easier operation. Also joining the team is the new generation Briteliner Arrow, transfer wheel technology for today’s turfcare demands on natural or synthetic turf. Keeping many of Britain’s golf courses in the green is Vitax Enhance, an innovative range of bioactive fertilisers that includes microgranular and liquid products tailored to fine turf areas like golf greens and fairways that now embraces a water-soluble option. The winner of The Big Draw, to be announced in the run-up to BTME, is due to be presented with a superb set of Supaturf’s just-launched stencils, designed for marking out pitches, car parks and other public areas for events and sporting fixtures - plus the Supaturf aerosols to go with them. Pick up the ‘bible’ of WIDE VARIETY FROM linemarking on the stand – the Stand complete guide to marking out. C2 SOUTERS SPORTS Souters Sports, one of the UK’s leading assembling a first-class team consisting of Dukes in St Andrews, Cruden Bay, Gleneagles, specialist sportsturf contractors, will be proven, talented professionals trained in all De Vere Carden Park and Fairfield Golf Club exhibiting at BTME 2015 on Stand C2. aspects of golf course construction. amongst others. In addition, the team has Renowned for providing sports ground Combined with a significant and ongoing two shapers with over 30 years’ experience, construction, land drainage and sports pitch investment in market leading equipment, it who have an esteemed reputation of shaping CAMPEY CONTINUE TO LEARN SEMINAR renovation services of the highest quality. The is easy to see why more and more course architects and committees’ visions alike. Campey Sales Director Simon Gumbrill will be centres, and how world renowned clubs such rotors will feature heavily, as will the Air2G2 company caters for clients of all sizes, however managers are now turning to Souters A number of the company’s experienced delivering a seminar during Continue to Learn at as Real Madrid have perfected environmentally which has had a fantastic response from users large or small. Sports. staff will be on hand at BTME to advise industry BTME 2015 on the changing techniques for fine friendly and efficient techniques to remove in its first year in the UK. Serving a wide range of sports turf services, The team has proven its experience and professionals on any construction, drainage or turf maintenance across Europe. unwanted thatch and rogue grasses. The new VGR Topchanger offers an Souters Sports have spent a number of years expertise at a variety of golf clubs including The irrigation-related issues. The seminar, free for BIGGA members who Simon will be discussing how you can adapt alternative approach using the power of water have pre-booked (go to www.btme.org.uk for these methods to make real changes to your to de-compact the soil and create an excellent, more) entitled From Real Madrid to Your Golf golf course in order to promote your preferred healthy environment for grass roots to thrive. Course will be held on Tuesday 20 January at grass species. Other products on display will cover all NEW CHAPTER FOR CHARTERHOUSE 2.15pm. Campey Turf Care Systems will be exhibiting aspects of natural turf maintenance including A new chapter in the history of Charterhouse It will look at how new methods of turf many of the machines used to achieve the the Dakota 410 in special edition livery, Vredo Turf Machinery will unveil itself at BTME 2015 management have rapidly developed in results as described by Simon on their Stand – Super Compact seeder, Imants SandCat and on Stand B48 when ‘Green’ joins ‘Red’. For European football stadiums and training B58. The Koro Field TopMaker with Universe® the Imants ShockWave 155. the first time at BTME, Graden machines will complement the Redexim equipment for the care and maintenance of natural turf surfaces. The Graden range of verticutters are renowned for their depth of cut as well as their ingenuity Stand with products like the Contour Sand Injector (CSI) – a scarifier/aerator with the ability to scarify B58 to any depth between 1mm-40mm, whilst simultaneously backfilling the grooves with either sand or a combination of sand and seed. From the Redexim stable comes innovative machinery like the Verti-Quake 2516 - a linear aerator which decompacts the soil via 18 rotating off-set blades. Charterhouse will also be displaying the DS800 topdresser from their highly successful Rink range. This twin-disc topdresser spreads material up to 15m wide and can successfully operate light, heavy or wet applications. The DS800 has a hopper capacity of 0.8m3, a working speed of 19mph and the benefit that the spreading pattern and density - determined by the tractor spinner and conveyor belt speed - Stand can all be controlled easily from the tractor seat. B48
26 GI JANUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd JANUARY 2015 GI 27 PREFeaVItuEreW
Stand SHERRIFF AMENITY SUPPORT A46 CONTINUE TO LEARN
Stand B34
Leading UK turf care and sports equipment A three-day course is conducted by the pesticides. It is important to support education suppliers Sherriff Amenity will once again be STRI’s Head of Research Dr Ruth Mann, which within the industry as well as also helping to holding the BASIS Foundation Award in Amenity serves as preparation for the final exam to be support education at the show.” and Horticulture at BTME 2015. The company held in Harrogate during the exhibition. With As well as playing a vital role in the education will also be showcasing a new online Turf Report support from Bayer and Everris, the award is programme, Sherriff Amenity’s experienced and Education Platform on Stand B34. undertaken by a wide variety of professionals staff will be out in force on stand B34, providing The BASIS Foundation Award in Amenity and including candidates from golf clubs and other invaluable advice to greenkeepers, course Horticulture has been a resounding success landscape and amenity organisations. managers and turf professionals. With an at the exhibition over recent years with an Commenting on the importance of education extensive range of fertilisers, chemicals, grass impressive pass rate. This is set to continue at at an industry trade show like BTME, Sherriff seed, dressings, sprayers and golf course BTME 2015, with Sherriff Amenity committed Amenity’s Marketing Manager Kevin Whitby equipment, Sherriff Amenity has the perfect to raising the knowledge of pesticides among said: “We see this as a practical way of solution to achieve tees, greens and fairways of professional users. promoting a professional understanding of the highest standard. BAYER GO FOOTBALL CRAZY
World-class freestyle footballer Jamie The focus this year is very much about the Steve explained that Bayer’s customer MacDonald will be showcasing his skills on two key products Interface and Merit Turf for portfolio is growing. NEW FROM TILLERS TURF Bayer’s Stand (A46) at BTME. With a history use on the professional upkeep of golf courses “More greenkeepers are choosing New, for the first time ever at BTME, on Stand A51, is Tillers’ Poa Greens turf. of innovative stand attractions, Jamie’s across the UK, both of which are growing in Bayer products to compliment their turf Stand Poa Greens turf is grown on USGA sand to ensure compatibility with the appearance is sure to wow visitors at the event. popularity. management programmes, to ensure their A51 rootzone. But, unlike a pure fescue/bent turf, Poa Greens is more compatible with BTME is one of Bayer’s most important “Interface, which is very popular with courses are in optimum condition for each and older greens with a Poa/bent sward composition. This means that both the look events in terms of engaging greenkeepers in the greenkeepers and course managers, is an every use.” and the speed of the new green will be similar to the other greens on the course. industry. innovative turf fungicide due to the way it’s The appearance of Jamie on the stand also Other highlights on the stand include the ‘often copied but never equalled’ The creation of a stand which is interactive, formulated. The unique StressGard Formulation highlights the link with other sectors of turf revetting turf, and our wildflower turf. Now in its fifth year of production, revetting fun and informative will ensure that Bayer are Technology from Bayer delivers excellent management. turf is seeing increasing demand from links courses throughout Europe. The able to reach out to their customers. disease control and grass protection, leading to “There are a lot of similarities between the golf perennial wildflower turf is being specified as a means of successfully introducing “Talking to greenkeepers and course visibly healthier grass,” Steve added. sector and turf management in other sectors biodiversity on the golf course. On hand will be the avuncular Adam Pounds to managers and giving them advice on turf Steve said that their popular granular such as football, so this is an opportunity to answer any questions and to provide quotations. management is what we do, so their feedback insecticide, Merit Turf is also a key product disseminate this message, as well as it being a Joining Adam will be Richard Owens, formerly Course Manager at Boston is crucial. This is why we put a lot of thought for course managers. “Used for the control of fun attraction on stand. West GC, who joined Tillers Turf in 2014 having won Conservation Greenkeeper into creating an innovative and interesting stand chafer grubs and leatherjackets, Merit Turf is the “Ultimately, we want a stand which is of the Year Award. Richard, a keen environmentalist, will explain why Tillers Turf at BTME,” explained Steve Bishop, Product only dual control product for use against both engaging, and draws visitors in, so we can talk is a sponsor of the STRI Golf Environment Awards, and will show visitors how to Manager for Bayer’s professional turf and of these pests, in this sector, and is extremely to the people who matter - our customers - and maximise nature on the golf course. amenity portfolio. effective.” this is of utmost importance to us.”
28 GI JANUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd JANUARY 2015 GI 29 PREVIEW Inject some life!
The Graden CSI is very versatile. Firstly it is the ultimate machine to penetrate through the upper surface to remove thatch and increase drainage. Secondly it has the ability to inject sand at the same time – and then combine it with seed to make a hat-trick! Find out more about the Graden CSI today.
See us at BTME 2015 - Stand B48 COMPLETE WEED CONTROL IN THE Designed for durability Stand C48 DRIVING SEAT www.charterhouse-tm.co.uk | 01428 661222 Complete Weed Control (CWC), the UK’s largest safety guidelines. It is this professionalism which so why not visit Stand C48 to receive some weed control contractor, will be at BTME 2015. ensures that course greens, tees and fairways fantastic tips on tackling winter conditions? Visitors to the Harrogate exhibition will be able look their best at all times. With winter in mind, more information will be to find out more about the specialist services on A number of Complete Weed Control’s available on Complete Ice Control; which was TriCure AD offer by visiting Stand C48. experienced staff members will be on hand at formed in response to the overwhelming need The company will once again be holding ‘The BTME to offer valuable advice to all attendees. for a professional, reliable and trusted local More results Stig Driving Challenge’ at BTME where visitors Although we are into the dark mornings and gritting service to deal with snow and ice will be invited to set a ‘hot lap’ on the Top Gear evenings, pests and diseases don’t stop for worries using the best tools and technology Avoid the queues and track. The CWC Stig will set the best time each a holiday- in fact, they become more active; available. less application morning with prizes being offered for the fastest pre-register for time set from each day. The company, which has over 50 offices BTME 2015 at throughout the UK and Ireland and also BTME DEBUT FOR operates its exceptional franchise scheme, began its war on weeds in 1972. In the years Stand that followed, Complete Weed Control went GIANNI FERRARI M29 from strength to strength and demonstrated Gianni Ferrari will be exhibiting the new Turbo Z 322 www.btme.org.uk its commitment to spearheading the Diesel at BTME for the first time on Stand M29. marketplace by investing heavily in research and The new Turbo Z 322 D has many additional benefits development. to its petrol equivalent, such as reduced running costs Complete Weed Control’s technical expertise associated with diesel engines. Although fitted with a has been recognised throughout the UK and powerful diesel engine, it still retains the same compact For more news and has resulted in many golf clubs turning to the design. It boasts hydraulic lift for attachments company to keep their courses in pristine enabling the machine to mount kerbs and See us at updates follow BIGGA on condition. With an extensive range of services pavements with ease. BTME 2015 available including moss control, weed control, It is also compatible with the new 132 on stand C30 Twitter @BIGGALtd disease management and cosmetic spraying, cm Dual-Cut™deck which allows the A multi-rate it’s no wonder that some of the UK’s most operator to switch between mulching surfactant effective prestigious clubs have chosen Complete Weed mode and rear discharge mode in one on sand, soil and Control. simple move. The technology of weed control and spraying organic matter applications is quite sophisticated these days and knowing when and how to apply the 01223 597834 BIGGA appropriate product is absolutely vital as it can [email protected] TURF speed up eradication and save time and money. www.headlandamenity.com All of Complete Weed Control’s work MANAGEMENT the missing piece that is undertaken by a rigorously trained and makes all the difference! experienced team who adhere to strict health & EXHIBITION
30 GI JANUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd JANUARY 2015 GI 31 CUSTOMER SATISFACTION
There are many clubs that are exemplary in motivating their employees to focus on membership results. Do you encourage There is no more valuable advertising than word of mouth advertising and with social media the field has obviously expanded. People believe what their family, the intimacy friends and neighbours say about a business or facility, and they remember it for a long time. It is also true that very few people will complain - directly. They simply factor? take their business elsewhere. A business operation generates word of mouth advertising, whether the management is aware of it or not. Satisfied customers tell four to five people of their positive experi- ence whereas dissatisfied custom- ers tell 9 to 12. So the question is, what are customers saying after they have experienced your club’s services? The basis of all positive word of mouth advertising is providing excellent products and services. This is also the basis for success of most marketing and advertis- ing. Loyal customers will notice the quality and sincerity of how welcoming and consistent their experience is. The devil is most definitely in the detail and it is more often than not the tiny touches that end up count- ing the most. Most golf facilities fulfill their customers’ expectations but people will talk about you if you surpass their expectations. For example, I recently had an experience at a course where I was playing, and not unusually for me I was searching Eddie Bullock, Turf Managers’ Conference presenter 2015, is for a ball in the rough. an expert in golf facility management. This month he focuses A greenkeeper on a rough mower on welcoming golfers to your club and how the whole team drove up, and my first thought was to feel pressured that I was hold- can play a part in ensuring customer satisfaction to prevent ing him up. But on this occasion golfers heading elsewhere he stopped the mower, got off and helped me find my ball, giving the impression he genuinely wanted me to enjoy my round – a fantastic Talent spotting is one of my their club; do they engage me and apathy is what members and sharing the vision and values of the income, what the expenditures are, about the author example of a small detail making a pastimes. When visiting golf make me feel that, even as a guest, guests receive. It surprises me organisation?! who the board members are, what difference. clubs, I am looking for that I belong? when I discover how many clubs Key messages create the internal their responsibilities are, etc.? If Widely recognised as an It won’t surprise you that I’ve told sparkle that immediately Successful clubs ensure that don’t deliver a thorough induction drive to deliver the expectations to authority on the emerging there is no sharing of information everyone this little tale! Do the little engages me. When I find a welcoming atmosphere is inte- into their businesses. Clubs that the customer, no matter what busi- trends within the global golf about the business then it is easily industry, Eddie has spoken few extra things, and you will have examples of it, I have a grated into all activities of their do so recognise how critical such a ness you are involved with. at many leading business interpreted as “they don’t want to and association conferences. loyal members and guests that tendency to examine each and business, so that focusing on their process is. Knowledge is not only key, but share it with you, so why or how can His main area of focus is recommend you to their friends, every one of this new breed members and guests becomes part And that doesn’t mean a ‘quick also it is critical for each and every golf club hospitality and the you care?” effect this has on business neighbours and family. of talent, just to find out how of the club’s way of life. tour around the facilities, here’s one of the club’s employees. Yes, operations. Becoming a great organisation You want the underlying philoso- much product knowledge they Alas, this experience is all too your uniform, now go to work’ EVERYONE needs to know about He is a mentor and requires the sharing of information, consultant who has helped phy of your culture to be that any have about their organisation. infrequent. Instead, at some clubs, attitude. the business to understand what many golf businesses to enabling staff to become partners visit that does not provide “ The Inti- How old is the club? How many you can receive a lacklustre wel- Can you imagine Manchester the business represents. They need flourish. He shows younger in the business. businesses how to thrive macy Factor” - the desire to tell it to members are there? How long have come from the front of house, but United, Chelsea, Real Madrid or to be business partners and elevate and larger businesses how Progressive global clubs share to become leaner, fitter and someone - is a missed opportunity. they been with the club? Do they is it their fault? Are they really to Bayern Munich signing a player, their presence. their passion, their knowledge and more successful. Through Every customer is not profitable take control - do they naturally blame? welcoming them, then directing If the goal is efficiency, consistent a combination of his embrace a learning culture within knowledge and intuitiveness, their operations. They ensure that or even desirable; some people have transmit the ‘warm welcome’ factor Moreover, has anybody invested them to the dressing room and message and common practice, Eddie provides clear unrealistic expectations, and will and make me want to be with time to make them excited and suggesting they interact with other it is vital to share. For example: assessment, guidance and relevant business knowledge is solutions. not be happy no matter what. This them? Do they take ownership energised about their workplace? members of the team on the way the team wants to know how the Find out more at shared so everyone will know where is true in every business. and feel responsible for my stay at If not, then it’s no surprise that to see how they do things without club is marketed, how it generates www.eddiebullockgolf.com the club is going.
32 GI JANUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd JANUARY 2015 GI 33 CUSTOMER SATISFACTION
Unequalled. JUST GOT UPGRADED
On the other hand, regular cus- their positive recommendations tomers that become unhappy actu- about your course. ally have the potential to be your Many golf clubs need to remove best advocates. Statistics suggest their barriers to service and hospi- that when customers complain, tality, and focus their objectives on business owners and managers delivering customer results. This ought to get excited about it. The would enhance the whole experi- complaining customer represents ence by developing the right people a huge opportunity for more busi- for the club service environment. ness, and there is often nothing a The prerequisite of progressive golfer wishes to complain about employees in any business is hon- more than the course itself. esty from their employers, and the When you resolve problems to opportunity to learn new skills that the satisfaction of these customers, will set them up for their future. they will become your loyal sup- The new generation is thirsty to porters, and will spread positive edge ahead and develop their CV Five important tenets word of mouth advertising for you. by adding new competencies they THE NEW, EVEN BETTER STW COMPACT TRACTOR SERIES It’s human nature. We respect didn’t previously have. 1) Smile people that admit mistakes and When a new employee is hired 2) Make Eye Contact correct the situation. within an organisation, whatever 3) Use Names We give them the benefit of the its size, they should enter as if it’s a 4) Spend TIME to connect Step up into new levels of comfort, reliability doubt in the future, and we tell university of learning. Their initia- 5) Always say Thank You others that they fix their mistakes tion must include: coaching them and performance with the new STW compact and keep their promises. It leads to to have a service mindset and guid- This process is unlikely to be tractor series from Kubota. Scan the great customer loyalty. If you really ing them to exceed expectations successful unless the organisation QR code recognises the value of talent iden- for more want to stand out, go in search where possible. From mowing to loading, the new STW is an unequalled performer. Amazingly quick information tification and development, and of the unhappy golfer that never Asking them how can they and impressively powerful, it’s lightweight and compact design delivers outstanding makes it part and parcel of every complained. constantly look for opportunities efficiency with minimal surface impact. If you want people to say great to provide more than people antici- manager’s responsibility. things about you, find and fix the pate - going above and beyond the Organisation leaders at all levels Heavy duty tasks are light work thanks to the STW’s high torque, low noise Kubota problems that he or she didn’t call of duty. have to be constantly communicat- diesel engine plus a host of standard features including the exclusive Bi-Speed turn identify. Ask for feedback from your That initial approach should also ing the message, similar to my old for enhanced and effortless operation. golfers, and follow up. You will win include the five important tenets schoolteacher Miss Carruthers, advocates and friends; and they will that are non negotiable, particu- who had to constantly and force- Now available with a panoramic, spacious and air-conditioned cab, the STW offers IMAGES from The Turf fully repeat her message! actively influence other people with larly for all direct customer contact: Managers’ Conference 2014 class leading visibility and operator comfort. Why settle for less. Be unequalled.
EDDIE IS PRESENTING AT THE TURF MANAGERS’ CONFERENCE 2015 ON MONDAY 19 JANUARY 2015 AT THE CROWN HOTEL, HARROGATE. TO BOOK YOUR SPOT VISIT WWW.BTME.ORG.UK See it now at your Kubota dealer. For more information or to find your local dealer call: 01844 268 000 or visit: www.kubota.co.uk 34 GI JANUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd
GREENKEEPER INTER STW 210x297mm.indd 1 12/12/2014 16:03 WENTWORTH 2015 Feature Join the BMW PGA Championship support team
Now is your chance to apply to join the volunteer BIGGA greenkeeping support team for the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth in May
BIGGA has provided a support A course preparation team of 15 is Light clothing and refreshments team for this event for many required 19-24 May. Match raking are provided and a small marquee years and volunteers are again takes place 21-24 May. is provided as a base adjacent to the required for all four days of For the first two rounds there are first fairway on the West Course. this the flagship event of the approximately 52 match rakers, Please note that no accommoda- European Tour. and for rounds three and four, 40 tion is provided at this event. The 2015 tournament is between are needed. To apply, please fill in the applica- 21-24 May, and an early morning This is another superb develop- tion form and return to: prep team of 15 volunteers are ment opportunity on both a profes- Rachael Duffy at BIGGA House, required for the full week as back up sional and personal level, with a Aldwark, Alne, York YO61 1UF by to Kenny Mackay and his team at fantastic camaraderie developing the closing date of Friday 27 March the prestigious Surrey venue. between the team. 2015.
Name I am available for: ...... Full week...... q Golf Club ...... Thursday...... q Position Friday...... q ...... Age...... BIGGA Membership Number Saturday...... q ...... Sunday...... q Home address ...... Preference given to members who can do most/all days ...... Yes No ...... I have been a BIGGA member Email Address for more than three years...... q...... q ...... Mobile Number I serve, or have served in the last three years, ...... on a Section/Region Committee...... q...... q
Please email in a head and shoulders photo to I have attended three of the last five BTMEs...... q...... q [email protected]...... q Polo shirt measurement; chest...... I am/have been a member of the Open Are you available for the Early Morning Prep team from Championship Support Team...... q...... q Monday?...... q I have been a member of the BMW PGA q q
IMP O RTANT INF Championship Support Team......
Note: A place on the team is open to all full BIGGA members but priority will be given to the more active members. We welcome applications from members from all Regions, but priority will be given to members from the South East. Please ensure that you have spoken to your golf club or Course Manager/Head Greenkeeper prior to applying and you are definitely available. To apply please fill in the application form, enclose a passport photograph and send to Rachael Duffy, BIGGA House, Aldwark, Alne, York YO61 1UF. The closing date is Friday 27 March 2015.
36 GI JANUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd JANUARY 2015 GI 37 Feature JOHN DEERE FINANCIAL How to finance your fleet
Finance case study: Bawburgh Golf Club Glen Lodge
The comprehensive machinery fleet at Bawburgh Golf Club Glen Lodge in Norfolk was renewed in 2014 with Norwich-based dealer Ben Burgess on a six year John Deere Financial hire purchase agreement, covering more than 20 machines including greens, fairway and rough mowers, Gator utility vehicles and compact tractors for use by Course Manager Gary Beckwith, five full-time staff plus an apprentice and driving range assistant. “With the combination of ongoing low interest rates and subsidised finance, this deal was a no-brainer,” says new General Manager Gary Stangoe. “The club has been able to plan and budget for an agreed sum of money going out annually, while knowing there will be no nasty surprises down the road. “This builds in a good bit of security for us while the co-owners Robert and Jo Barnard continue to invest more widely in developing the club facilities overall – our capital’s not completely tied up and we can sensibly tackle other projects. “If you think most clubs must have on average a dozen or so machines in the shed, it would take eight to 10 years to replace the entire fleet – you’d never catch up if you simply bought one machine a year at around £20-£30,000, compared to budgeting a similar sum These days most capital equipment is financed, whether for annually over the life of a finance programme. It’s all about fixing costs, use by golf courses or sports grounds, in fleets or as single and the deal is even more bulletproof when you factor in the two-year purchases. This article highlights the increasing use of planned warranty – you know all your costs, all the way to the next replacement. It’s also good to have the reliability that new technology provides.” replacement finance as a way of making the most efficient use of your machinery without breaking the bank
As a division of the company to help golf clubs and other cus- include dealer maintenance and finish, something club members what is being spent each year on John Deere Financial offers a that builds the equipment, tomers to access the finance they repair cover for selected machines. and visiting players notice straight new equipment, spares and repairs. choice of hire purchase, finance John Deere Financial is need to purchase new equipment John Deere’s PowerGard coverage away.” While many owners and lease, operating lease and contract uniquely and ideally placed and keep their businesses running options enable dealers to carry out a In any purchasing deal involving operators do have a handle on hire with maintenance. The leas- to provide a full range of efficiently and cost-effectively. complete maintenance programme finance, it is important that a total their annual budget and the cost ing and contract hire options in financing options for John “These competitive finance to a fixed budget, depending on the package is discussed from the very of spares and repairs, the often particular can help those clubs Deere golf course and other solutions can be tailored to suit plan chosen by the customer. start. huge expense of downtime is rarely that operate on a partial or full VAT turf maintenance machinery the individual cash flow needs of “In recent years we have found Things such as the dealer accounted for. With a planned exemption basis. These options sold by the company’s dealer the business and provide flexible that an increasing number of golf network and parts back-up, the replacement programme, this key allow clubs to pay VAT on the network. and affordable ways to maintain a clubs, worried about the rising cost machines and their suitability for element of the whole life cost can be repayments, which can help cash “We are committed to finding the reliable and up to date fleet of top of maintaining and servicing older the job, warranty and finance are predicted far more effectively. flow enormously. right financing solutions for all our quality equipment. machines, are taking up replace- only some of the areas that need With John Deere equipment, Another significant consider- customers, particularly in the cur- “They are also designed to make ment finance schemes,” says to be considered, and all have an for example, carrying a two year ation is that when equipment is rent economic climate,” says John it convenient for customers to Cameron. effect on the final outcome. warranty, this means on a three bought for cash, if the customer Deere Financial’s UK general sales acquire the latest technology, such “Instead of buying one or two The first and main criteria any year replacement programme you cannot claim back the VAT, the full manager Cameron Renwick. as hybrid electric mowers with items of equipment each year for operator or manager of equipment can fairly accurately predict most amount including VAT has to be “Financing new equipment can Quick Adjust cutting cylinders or cash, a financed package deal can needs to fully understand are of your costs for the first two years. paid; whereas with operating lease help any business to forecast and advanced amenity turf sprayers, enhance the entire turf mainte- exactly what machines are being A tailored finance plan matched to or contract hire, John Deere Finan- fix their capital investment costs, which are also backed by depend- nance fleet by spreading the cost used, what workload they usually More information the life of the machine means that cial can calculate repayments on while also taking advantage of the able service and support from the over a fixed period – and another encounter, how they have been and a second case replacements can be made at the the pre-VAT amount because it latest available technology. The local John Deere dealer.” benefit is there will be an immedi- funded previously, what (if any) study next month right time before any major costs holds the title to the goods and can programmes we offer are designed Financing packages can also ate improvement in the quality of replacement plan is in place and are incurred. claim the VAT back.
38 GI JANUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd JANUARY 2015 GI 39 Feature BACK TOFe SCHatOOureL
opened up the course, and the next ended up at the front of the green.” stage was reshaping the rough.” He added sarcastically “that was He admitted he’s a perfectionist fun”. So how did this small team with a keen eye for detail even by cope? greenkeeping standards. “We basically put everything else “I’m almost obsessive when it on hold for two weeks and concen- comes to greenkeeping! Everything trated on clearing everything up. has to have some sort of a shape to Luckily the weather did improve a it. I don’t like jagged mown edges, little, and we managed to get the everything has to have flowing course in decent shape for the Cup.” curves and be smooth and tidy. Alec was helped during that “Our longest hole the sixth, period, and for most of his time at Back to which is 418 yards off the whites, Bradfield, by Dan Woodcraft, before was like a runway; straight, boring. Dan recently found a position at So we changed it. Wentworth. Alec is full of pride as he “We made it wider for the higher describes how Dan is now further- handicappers and pinched it for the ing his career at one of the world’s lower handicappers. You always most prestigious courses. find it’s the lower handicappers “I’ve always made it clear to who have the loudest voices when anyone on the team that I would school they want things done! That way it’s never stand in their way if they fair for the lesser golfers yet still a wanted to move on, and I’m so decent test for the better ones. pleased for Dan. He was terrific to “Some of the low handicappers work with and I know he’ll do really Steve Castle headed back to were driving the green on another well in his career. par four so we stopped the fairway “Aaron has replaced him. His school as he investigated how short and put in about ten yards of background is more on grounds a two-man greenkeeping team rough. I haven’t seen many people rather than golf courses, but he’s drive the green since we’ve done young, enthusiastic and keen to are scoring top marks at a that. The greens are a bent/poa learn.” nine-hole course within the mix, they’re in good shape but you There’s no committee at Brad- grounds of one of England’s always want to improve.” field – instead Alec reports to an Alec would have liked to have Estates Manager who in turn works most prestigious public made further changes by con- with the Bursar who is in charge of schools structing new bunkers – the course the purse strings. currently has just nine. But he’s “If I want anything I have to ask forbidden from doing this as the for it, but I’m learning how to ask course is situated in an Area of for it differently. I go in armed with Outstanding Natural Beauty. as much information as I can and The biggest challenge of Alec’s basically present a case. I’ve gained career arrived unexpectedly in in confidence with that and I think 2007, a few short months into it’s a really important skill for any his tenure as Head Greenkeeper. greenkeeper to have.” Much of the country was battling Alec was born in Edinburgh devastating summer floods at that and is a passionate Hearts FC time, and Bradfield did not escape. supporter, but moved to the south A small ditch which normally of England with his family when trundles quietly alongside part of he was three. His early career was the course was transformed into spent mainly in construction and a raging torrent by heavy rain, landscaping before he gained an carrying logs, branches and silt interest in greenkeeping and joined through the grounds and parts of Bird Hills Golf Club. the course. He was halfway through his Level As well as wrecking the college’s 2 NVQ in Sportsturf when the club reception area, the water washed made major staff cutbacks – which away a couple of access bridges, included Alec and several other causing land close to a fairway to greenkeepers. He’s phlegmatic collapse and entirely emptied one about what happened, and com- bunker of all its sand. In total, 50 pleted his Level 2 before finishing Heading into the Berkshire Somewhere in this huge com- 1998 and has six par fours and cut with gang mowers and it was tonnes of silt was dumped on the his Level 3 in 2010. village of Bradfield conjures plex, almost hidden by several three par threes. a bit ropy. Even though I was an front of the sixth fairway. All this “These things happen, and it’s up images of Harry Potter immaculate looking football The greenkeeping team is Head inexperienced Head Greenkeeper, came a fortnight before the club’s led to me ending up here which is and Hogwarts – or possibly pitches, is a nine-hole golf course Greenkeeper Alec Horsburgh, his I knew a few simple steps would biggest comp of the year - The Presi- a really enjoyable place to work. I James Corden’s wide-eyed maintained by just two full-time assistant Aaron Parfitt plus two improve it pretty quickly. The first dent’s Cup. have the minimum of interference wonder at seeing Oxford or greenkeepers. of the college’s groundsmen, who step was to get a new mower and Alec recalled: “The water took here and I feel I’m really making Cambridge for the first time in An impressive 300 members alternate weekly bringing the team cut the grass with something that everything with it – small trees, my own mark on the place, even ‘The History Boys’. Bradfield play here, many of them lecturers, up to three. Alec joined in 2007, and wasn’t a gang mower! branches, bridges, logs…the col- though I’m never satisfied. College is a boarding school, teachers and various other employ- said his main challenge at that time “There were several rough areas lege was also badly flooded. “When Dan and I joined here complete with imposing ees of the college, and it’s a small, was to give the course some much- of the course that had basically “I was amazed when I saw the we had around 170 members, two gothic buildings, and its pupils undulating course full of character. needed definition and character. been abandoned, covered in thistles bunker that had been emptied. You years later it had increased to 300 are renowned for performing Designed by Donald Steel, it was He said: “To be honest, the and nettles. We cut all this out and could see the base, there was no which reassures you that you’re Greek plays. opened by Bernard Gallacher in course was boring. Everything was strimmed it all down. This really sand left in it at all. All the sand had doing a good job.”
40 GI JANUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd JANUARY 2015 GI 41 REMEDY OAK GOLF CLUB A greenkeeping Remedy
How the team at Remedy Oak Golf Club completed the mammoth task of replacing all of the club’s greens - with help from Agronomic Services Ltd
Q Rob, could you outline the and Angus granulars in a three project you undertook at stage process; prior to lifting turf, Remedy Oak in the summer of prior to relaying and post laying. 2014? I found these programmes and A 18 greens in seven weeks! the process of application critical to Originally we planned to core out the success of the recovery program 18 greens to 1.5 hectares in total, for the turf. David was a big support but it turned into much more. We in the run up to the first turf being closed for seven weeks and firstly, lifted and throughout the construc- we lifted the existing greens turf tion period. by hand, placing it as close to the His knowledge and understand- green as possible. We then cored ing of what we were trying to achieve out the old rootzone to the gravel was invaluable. carpet using White Horse Contrac- tors, checked all the drainage and Q Looking back would you repaired or replaced any damaged prefer to seed import turf or areas. use the existing turf? We then imported 100 tonnes A Like most clubs, we are a of 2/6mm gravel to top up the commercial business so we looked gravel carpets plus 350 tonnes of at the option of whether to seed, 90/10 rootzone per green to give import turf or use the existing turf, us finished levels of 100mm deep and we chose to relay the existing gravel, and 300mm deep rootzone turf. consistently across the greens. If I had had the option of a longer We then returfed the greens in the grow in period and knowledge of the same manner as they were lifted. weather in advance I would have There was so much work involved. chosen to seed. But, up to this point 1500 tonnes of commercial timber the results have been stunning. was extracted, and 180m of sleeper wall revetment was installed on Q What were the project’s two holes. Two in play ponds were highlights, and if you were deepened and reshaped, and new giving advice what would it “I received a lot of help to pull this project off, but special fairway drainage was installed on be? mentions must go out to Steve Evans (Foreman for White one hole and the driving range. A The weather was terrific but I Horse Contractors) who nothing was ever a problem to, and like to think this was no fluke. The Murray Long for his help and support. A giant shout out also Q Why did you decide to work construction period was chosen to the whole Remedy Oak team especially Ed Cary and Rob with Agronomic Services Ltd? because recently it had been our Wills, all you guys were awesome.” A During the lead in time to the driest time of the year. We now have Rob Hogarth, Course Manager, Remedy Oak Golf Club construction period it was extremely a set of fully performing golf greens important that we prepared the turf which are free draining and they ABOVE: Combined team of Q How many of your team for disaster’ – but they were bril- Q You’re a great advocate of Visually we can see the difference greenkeepers and club staff to the highest possible standard have really been tested recently by were involved? liant. foliar feeding, why is this? within 24 hours and in winter it prior to lifting, and achieve the best heavy rainfall. A I felt I could meet our targets There was a real team spirit and A We recommend true foliar feed- really is the only satisfactory possible root depth to enhance the The aim is to bring all the greens with a team of 20. We have 12 passion to do the job well. This has ing as opposed to soil liquid feeds method of being able to stack recovery period. back into play by early April greenkeepers so I had to find eight pulled our team closer together and which are often confused. carbohydrates and feed the plant. I interviewed several companies (weather permitting) six months extra staff. given everyone a new found respect The feed enters the plant just like Foliars bypass the root system, who I felt could deliver the complete from the end of the construction. As the clubhouse was closed for each other’s job roles. a doctor’s IV drip into the patient. making pH, microbes, nutrient package, and decided to work with Key advice is to plan, plan and as well as the course during this When a patient needs nutrients but tie-ups, temperatures and other David Snowden from Agronomic plan! Also, speak to greenkeepers period we decided to utilise the Next, GI spoke to David Snowden, is unable to ingest them naturally factors irrelevant. Services. He assisted in designing who have worked on similar project chefs, bar staff and golf pros to lift Managing Director of Agronomic the doctor will administer an IV Liquid soil and granular prod- a Foliar and Granular programme before for important tips, which is and lay the turf. Services Ltd, to discover why he - this is precisely the idea behind ucts rely on root uptake whereas using the Floratine range of foliars something I do very regularly. Some may say this was a ‘recipe believes prescription is so important. foliars. foliars are taken into the plant
42 GI JANUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd JANUARY 2015 GI 43 FeREaMtEuDYre OAK GOLF CLUB
via the leaves bypassing soil and root health issues. The differences between a foliar and a soil liquid product can be established by the quality of the raw materials, appli- cation rates and spray volume and utilising a very fine spray mist. Better Moisture Distribution
Q Why is it important to analyse the soil and water? A This helps us understand the limitation of the growing medium and then balance the soils to ensure that the soils perform to their opti- mum. We can identify what is in reserve i.e. the soil and also what is in solution and therefore has the potential to be available for plant uptake. Better Playability It is also vital to analyse the water source as this can have a major impact on spray applications and nutritional balance in the soil.
Q What methods do you use, and how do you interpret the results and therefore prescribe the correct medicine? Q How would you sum up your A We take the soil and rootzone approach and how did you samples and send them for analysis become involved at Remedy Better Soil Health using the services of Ana-Lync who, Oak? I think, provide the most accurate A We recognise not one solution and comprehensive soil evaluation fits all and listen to our customers in the industry today. who understand and know their Ana-Lync use an extensive turf far better than we ever could. system to regionalise the soil evalu- We were thrilled to be invited to ation, taking into account various propose a nutrition plan to encom- soil, water and environmental con- pass all three phases of the project. ditions, this combined approach I then met with Rob to discuss the to understanding soils allows us proposal and explain my method- to see them in a more complete or ology. Rob was very focused in his three dimensional light. approach and his understanding of what was required meant that he Q You specialise in oxygen was able to make an informed deci- products, why do these work sion. It was a privilege to be involved. so well and did Remedy Oak use them? A Yes, as part of the overall plan we prescribed Oxy-Rush. We now Better Root Growth offer a full range of oxygen products depending on what our customer is trying to achieve. This may be on greens or fair- ways whether it’s thatch reduction, removal of black layer and algae The World’s or to reduce or replace physical Leading aeration. In some cases physical aeration Soil Surfactant is not possible due to pressure to produce year round golf and Oxy-Rush has proven to be a valid alternative in these cases. This can save turf managers time and money when the calculations are made and it has the additional benefits to the soil, which then in turn improves nutrient uptake. It’s a win-win situation, fortunately we have the science and STRI test results to prove our Oxygen prod- www.aquatrols.com ucts work as well as testimonials from the industry.
44 GI JANUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd Feature COURSE TRIALS
‘It is all in the design’ Images are very valuable – try to To design your experiment you photograph at the same time every need to follow a few simple rules. To day, from the same orientation. start with, be clear on what you are Take images between two plots trying to find out (whether it works, and build up an image bank of how it compares etc). the trial. Try to develop a process This will dictate which products whereby the images are taken in you are wanting to evaluate. It is a set order, on set dates. Data col- usual to run a ‘control’, which is lection is all about being organised an area with nothing (or just water) and consistent. applied. The control area provides a check Data interpretation on what would have happened A well-planned, designed and without any product being applied, executed trial can produce some so the true treatment effect can be powerful data. You do not need to assessed. be a scientist to make a clear inter- Another key rule would be to pretation of the results. replicate the treatments where pos- Simple bar charts showing sible. Applying the treatments to differences between treatments different areas will help to confirm are informative. A line graph the consistency of effect. Ideally, a showing change of effect over time minimum of three replicates should can be really effective for decision be planned for each treatment. making. For testing multiple treatments, Even a string of images can there should not be any order to your create a powerful message as to applications and each treatment whether a product is useful or not. should be assigned a plot randomly Sometimes the very fact you have to avoid any bias. It is important to put a product down and assessed give everything an equal chance. it regularly allows you to make a really informed decision on its ‘Data is king’ performance. Plan to collect data regularly, By carrying out a few informal Moment note measurement days in your trials each year you can begin to of truth diary and try to stick with them. understand the effect the treat-
As the new year begins, Henry Bechelet and Dr Andy Owen from Everris discuss how you can set up simple trials on your course to discover valuable data – rather MAIN: A greens trial string out than believing the hype of the latest turf ‘fad’ for treatment
INSET: Trial plots marked out and ready for assessment
Every year there seems to be products properly to learn about ‘Garbage in, garbage out’ It could be the corner of a Assessments can be simple, for ments are having on your surfaces some new fad, wonder product them and get better at what we do? So, if you want to carry out trial about the author practice putting green, an area of about the author example scores for turf colour (1–10 to help you perfect your mainte- or technique that becomes How about we tell you how? This work on your course to test a new fairway or a tee which doesn’t see scale), or turf quality (1–10 scale) nance programme. fashionable with greenkeepers. could be the next big thing! product there are a few steps to a lot of use. are commonly used. They tend to emerge on the consider. If you want meaningful If possible, choose an area close Percentage of surface affected Trials are important forums, be advocated on social ‘Seeing is believing’ results then you need to set up the to your office as you will need to visit by disease, number of weeds, and We hope that we all agree that if media or have a seductive If you’re interested, it is perfectly trial correctly. regularly to assess progress. amount of earthworm casting we are to make progress then we sales message to make them possible to carry out small informal Firstly, any product testing will Carrying out your own on-course would be other examples of data need to evaluate the performance especially tempting. trials on your golf course that could need to be done under realistic con- experiment does not have to be time easily collected. of our products properly. The wave of interest might even help you decide whether or not a ditions, at the right time of year, on consuming but it will take some If possible, measured data could At Everris we test all our prod- be compelling enough for us to try product works and if it is worth the recommended area of use and time to set up the trial, apply treat- be collected too. Soil moisture ucts and base our formulations on Henry Bechelet Andy Owen this new thing in the hope that a adding to your maintenance pro- under appropriate maintenance. ments and make assessments, so Andy is a soil scientist and content measured with a moisture trial data. We think that this helps new miracle has arrived and we will gramme. Any shortcuts here will just pro- After working in the turf plan accordingly. agronomist. He began his meter, green speed, surface hard- us make the best products on the and amenity sector for career carrying out contract all make some progress. And then, With the right planning and a duce meaningless results and lead over 20 years, Henry then Perhaps the trial responsibili- research into plant protection ness or smoothness, could equally market but you don’t have to take little bit of attention to detail you joined STRI as a trainee ties could be shared among team products before joining STRI well be assessed if they are relevant our word for it. after a couple of years, the miracle to a misinterpretation of the situa- agronomist. He then became as a research officer. He’s usually stalls. can test the claims and gather tion. Don’t bother with a bad trial Northern Technical Sales members as part of ongoing spent the past eight years to the treatments being applied. If you are interested in setting Representative for a fertiliser passing his expertise on to Collect data and immediately up on course product testing trials We then lose interest and some- some data yourself to allow you to set up. Consider what areas are supplier. He rejoined STRI in CPD or a work-based learning the next generation of turf thing else comes along to take its make informed decisions about the available and what time you have. 2000 as an agronomist before course. managers as a Lecturer in write it down or record it on your but need some help getting started joining Everris as Technical Sportsturf Agronomy at place and we are all none the wiser. effectiveness of the product on your Not everyone will have the luxury of Sales Manager. He is a Whatever you choose to do – plan Myerscough College. He is smartphone. Add it to an Excel data then please get in touch – henry. How about we stop doing this? How golf course, under your unique a turf nursery to carry out a trial, so familiar industry figure and it carefully and the results will be now International Technical sheet as soon as possible to keep [email protected] or andy. hugely popular speaker. Manager at Everris. about we actually evaluate our conditions. select an area of your course. useful, and hopefully enlightening. the data organised. [email protected]
46 GI JANUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd JANUARY 2015 GI 47 Feature FERTILISERS
Next, a strategic fertiliser pro- disease during its most prevalent gram does not just take account of period. soil nutrient status and the needs Using plant protectants and of the grass plant going forwards. plant elicitors as a preventative It also takes into account any measure can help to minimise management practices and practi- disease and in turn, reduce or even cal elements that have an impact eliminate fungicide inputs. on the day-to-day running of the Without addressing turf nutri- Get with the facility. tion, plants in warm winters can Many clubs will hold an impor- stress, weaken and lose colour. tant tournament or event and will This weak plant is then slower structure the program to make to respond in the spring and is sure the turf is looking its absolute more susceptible to disease. The best at this point in the year. aim must be to maintain a strong, Solid fertiliser products are often healthy plant throughout this time programme undesirable during the summer to ensure a consistent dense sward months as they can be easily seen in will result in the future. the sward if they don’t break down Last but not least, the potential rapidly, and can interfere with the cost of any fertiliser regime must playing surface. Liquid or soluble be established at an early stage. Planning a fertiliser programme? Then there are five basic INSET BELOW: Soil sampling products might be more suitable Clubs have to operate within tight during this period and can be budgets and the emphasis must be things to remember according to Headland Amenity’s Andy ABOVE RIGHT: Selecting the Russell, who says if you ‘Fail to measure, then you should right type of fertiliser is key applied rapidly and unobtrusively. on getting the best result possible RIGHT: Soil sampling and Another issue that should be for the best possible cost. plan to fail’ investigation helps structure a considered is the application of Fertiliser bag prices must be good fertiliser programme. products around planned aera- compared carefully as the amount tion. The programme should be in each can vary. 25kg bags are Top of the list is to always Without this, we have little idea taken into account when planning and, as we know, the weather is structured to take account of these common but 20kg or even 15kg are carry out a soil analysis, and whether the existing availability fertiliser inputs. hugely unreliable. So the likelihood periods, ensuring the turf is not available, making it important to do then remember that any of nutrients will be sufficient to In addition, a quality soil test is, that the programme which you stressed before the operation and the sums to calculate what is good programme you prepare, is a maintain the plant going forwards will also report other parameters and your advisor will initially pro- ensuring rapid and strong recovery value for money. guideline only. Thirdly, plan and over time, and you can’t moni- such as organic matter content, duce for a ‘given’ set of conditions, post-maintenance. Another cost implication will around your management tor the effect of the program on the cation exchange capacity (CEC), will have to adapt at some point to With seemingly milder autumns result from the application rate practices and don’t neglect residual soil nutrition. salt concentrations and good old take account of weather extremes and winter periods, plant nutrition used. High analysis products often winter nutrition. Lastly, For most consistent results, tests pH. Whilst these things will have a or fluctuations. through this time is key. Low rates can have an advantage as they may consider the real cost of should be carried out at around the bearing on any proposed fertiliser The key to this is to have a good of nitrogen can be applied where be able to be applied at lower rates fertilisers. same time of the year, but frequency additions they may also highlight understanding of how each product soil temperatures allow and growth (where granule size allows) – thus The starting point when putting will depend on the soil type in use. the need for some other cultural works and why it is suitable under a is occurring. providing better value. together a fertiliser programme is As a guide, new sand dominated and maintenance operations. given set of conditions. In addition, applications of Soluble fertilisers can be a soil test to measure the available USGA greens may need annual However, when putting together For example, urea-based fertilis- plant protectant nutrients (e.g. extremely cost-effective in com- nutrients in the soil. testing, at least in the first few a plan or programme of fertiliser ers will not function as well in cold, potassium, calcium) can help to parison with some liquids, however Apart from the immediate impact years, whilst an older, established applications, it is a common mis- early-season soils so if the winter is strengthen the plant and minimise they carry an increased time/ of understanding the existing clay-based green may only need take to think that once written on still around in March or April you stress. labour element in preparation. nutrient status, it will serve as a testing every three years or so. paper the plan cannot be flexible. may need to stick with low rates of Focusing on the autumn period Clubs who can purchase materi- benchmark to compare to future The soil test will highlight any Indeed, it must be flexible! more immediately available forms specifically, recent research carried als ahead, and for the whole season, results to understand any chang- available nutrient deficiencies or Growth and development of grasses of nitrogen to promote develop- out at STRI shows we can tailor can reduce unit costs where cash ing trends. indeed excesses and these can be is hugely influenced by the weather ment. nutrient input to help manage flow allows.
48 GI JANUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd JANUARY 2015 GI 49 COMPACT KUBOTA
Arguably the most sought-after the elements; a heating and cooling feature on Kubota’s utility vehicles system and radio console. is its unique dynamic braking, Alongside the RTV-X900, Kubota which provides additional braking also launched its new STW Series power and greater driving control compact tractor, an updated and on descents. improved version of the existing New year, This specification remains key STV range. The STV Series has to the range, whilst the new model been popular in the amenity turf is fitted as standard with a high sector since its launch, but the rigidity frame, which helps to new range improves on the existing isolate passengers from noise and offering in both performance and vibrations whilst also ensuring the operator comfort. new fleet machine is durable enough to carry The STW Series includes three heavier loads. Limited-slip front new diesel tractor models: STW34, differential and locking rear dif- STW37 and STW40, all of which are Versatile and hardworking machinery ferential brakes help reduce wheel available with an optional factory- spin, allowing greater control in wet equipped cab. The addition of the is essential for all landscape conditions. 12V power socket is another nice professionals. Kubota’s new range of The new X-Series utility vehicle feature, allowing users to recharge compact machinery promises has an impressive 10.4” travel smartphones or other electronic height, allowing the vehicle to glide devices. much in 2015 over lumps and bumps, resulting in All three models feature hydro- its unrivalled status in the market static power steering, which means for ground clearance. This is a key a tighter turning circle and a USP for operators, especially when reduction in operator fatigue when working with fine turf and across carrying out front loader work. undulating terrain. Standard with the STW Series is Height adjustable front and Kubota’s unique Bi-Speed Turn, rear suspension ensures the cor- a feature which allows operators rect vehicle height is maintained, to enjoy quicker, smoother and depending on load, and the fully tighter turns, whilst also minimis- independent suspension system ing potential damage to ground offers impressive ride comfort and surfaces and fine turf. quality. Arguably the crowning glory of all Kubota’s latest vehicle also builds Kubota machinery, and part of the on the range’s already impressive reason for its enduring popularity, load and towing capability with an is its diesel engines. Fitted on the increased maximum capacity of one STW Series and all of its tractor tonne, including a 15.2 cubic foot and groundcare machinery as cargo bed. Loading and unloading standard, the STW engine delivers can often be a challenge, especially a stable output of 2700 RPM. if manual operation is required. The The machine’s large torque rise is addition of a hydraulic lift bed on handy when working at low speeds the RTV-X900 means heavy loads and for operators needing to travel can be dumped in seconds, helping swiftly between sites. to save operator time and improve The STW Series has the fastest safety. maximum travel speed in its class The introduction of the RTV- - 34.1KPH. The new range features X900 is a big step forward in the 2-speed rear PTO and 1-speed mid development of diesel-powered util- PTO to maximise performance ity vehicle. Improved vehicle control regardless of the task, from mowing and fewer gear shifts are just two through to front loader and trailer improvements on the model, work. Its large hydraulic pump thanks to Kubota’s transmission capacity, with a flow rate of 30 l/ gearing - just two forward speeds min, is also ideal for a wide variety (high and low), plus neutral and of implements. reverse. The appeal Kubota’s compact Kubota (UK) celebrated 35 professional landscaper’s arsenal, of tasks and to cope with the more added benefit of a host of new Some of the biggest changes on tractor range and its utility vehicle years in the UK market last either through hire or purchase, varied workload. features. the RTV-X900 have been made offering continues to grow among year, an anniversary which and Kubota has grown in promi- In response to this shift, Kubota The new RTV-X900 is fitted with inside the cab, with the introduc- golfing and landscaping profes- was cause for celebration nence in this market over the last released its innovative the RTV900 a robust and powerful 21.6HP, tion of 60:40 split-bench seating; sionals. Long days and extended not only because it was a key decade. - the first 4WD utility vehicle to 3-cylinder liquid cooled diesel power steering; an easily accessible seasons – this year being a prime milestone in the development The utility vehicle market is one feature hydrostatic transmission engine, ensuring dependable parking brake; generous under- case in point – means that the of the brand in the UK but also that Kubota has made significant for safe hill climbing and controlled performance in even the most seat storage compartments and a working year is increasingly being due to some key new product inroads in. ascents. challenging weather conditions or digital metre cluster with bright, stretched out and as such and the launches. The company was quick to spot Keen to build on the success of its terrain. easy-to-read instructions. demand on the tools tasked with At the close of 2014, Kubota the gap in the market brought predecessor, Kubota launched its Variable hydraulic transmission The RTV-X900 also features a carrying out the work is intensify- released two new products - the about by the dip in the appeal of latest utility vehicle, the RTV-X900 has been improved, too, with a new vertical-opening front window ing. RTV-X900 utility vehicle and quad bikes in the mid ‘00s; there last year, the new model boasting advanced VHT-X, which offers for easy access to the cab and Investing in a reliable, hardwork- the STW Series compact tractor. was a growing appetite for a safer all the same rugged build quali- a wider torque band and large enhanced dumping as well as a ing and versatile fleet of machines Both compact tractors and utility machine with more muscle, a ties and superior reliability as the coolers to boost performance and host of custom options including will stand industry professionals in vehicles are key items of kit in the greater capacity to carry out a range original RTV900, but with the durability. side doors for full protection from good stead for the coming year.
50 GI JANUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd JANUARY 2015 GI 51 Feature RYEGRASSES
disease, mowing height, shade, the new “gold standard” for summer The future of ryegrasses? nutrient input and drought when sports ryegrasses. The newest addition to our choosing your blend of ryegrasses. Not only is it ranked #1 on Table portfolio of golf mixtures is Extreme Such constraints significantly L1 in Turfgrass Seed for mean per- RPR, a blend that supplements the influence the capability to tolerate formance and fineness of leaf, but it benefits of Bar Extreme with revo- wear. In almost all circumstances, also has the palest genetic colour of all lutionary Regenerating Perennial a combination of varieties - a tai- available ryegrasses (see Figure 3). Ryegrass technology. lored synergistic seed mixture - will This is of huge advantage in Barenbrug-bred RPR cultivars outperform any individual cultivar. summer sports, when ryegrasses such as Barclay II provide a new For instance, our most popular are often maintained in mixed dimension for the species by golf rye blend Bar Extreme is species swards with paler being able to produce determi- formulated to offer predominantly grasses such as red fescues and nate stolons as they develop and a balance of wear tolerance, close- Poa annua. grow. mowing ability and aesthetic qual- The ability for Barolympic This development allows peren- ity (fineness of leaf and mid-green to blend in aesthetically to this nial ryegrass to spread further into colour). environment, whilst dramatically its surrounding area, potentially This differs entirely to a mixture improving the wear tolerance of the repairing gaps in the sward as they like Bar Sprint (for equestrian surface will be invaluable to sports appear. sports) where speed of establish- turf managers. This is great news for anyone ment and recovery are of far greater If ryegrasses are needed to com- using ryegrass for divot repair concern. bine heavy wear tolerance and close or overseeding by mechanical mowing, selecting a synergistic means such as a disc seeder, as Choosing perennial ryegrass blend of varieties like Bar Extreme RPR has the ability to “fill in” for golf is recommended. more quickly than conventional When considering ryegrass The adoption of Bar Extreme varieties. varieties for use in golf, fineness as a divot mix allows successful RPR has been used with phe- of leaf is a particularly important repairs to be made earlier and nomenal global success for winter Focus on trait. There is a strong correlation later in the year and has even been sports pitches, and now course between fine leaf width and the shown to extend the playing season managers and head greenkeep- ability of a cultivar to tolerate the when used on tees for a prolonged ers have access to this exciting lower heights of cut associated with period. development in a dedicated blend golf. In addition, commonly in golf, If combining ryegrasses with for golf. ryegrasses are blended with fine fescue for medium/fine turf appli- fescues – put simply, the finest rye- cations, selecting a variety with the Conclusion grasses look far better aesthetically finest leaf possible and pale-green In conclusion, it can be seen that Ryegrasses in a mixed sward. colour is often considered best in my view, the bold opening state- Figure 1 highlights the remark- practice. ment should actually be a maxim able breeding achievements during Bar Platinum blends 30% Baro- for all golf course managers. the last decade which have created lympic with 70% fescue to offer By adopting perennial ryegrasses Dr David Greenshields, Research and Development Manager at Barenbrug, an unrivalled portfolio of extremely Figure 1 (BELOW GRAPH): a good degree of wear tolerance in the right areas, there is huge fine-leafed cultivars for golf. Fineness of Leaf scores of whilst maintaining exceptional turf potential to improve turf quality selected ryegrass cultivars from focuses on the potentially huge benefits of ryegrasses on the UK’s golf courses Bargold, and more recently Bar- Table L1 Turfgrass Seed 2014, quality and aesthetics. and playability across the course; signum and Barolympic have all set scored on a scale 1-9, with 9— The blend contains #1-rated finest leaf, 1 = broadest. just make sure to select the right new standards for the species. Chewings and slender creeping fes- varieties for the job, and if in doubt, In terms of practical usage in distinct range of cultivars in blends A bold statement to start; in Figure 3(BELOW LEFT): Colour cues Barlineus and Viktorka and ask our experts! my opinion, perennial ryegrass golf, their ability to germinate at far and mixtures specifically designed Introducing the next data for palest and darkest has been used with great success Please contact Dr David Green- to meet these varied demands. ryegrasses from Turfgrass usage should form part of lower temperatures and establish generation of ryegrasses Seed 2015; combined data from on all areas of golf courses, includ- shields, Barenbrug Research & every golf course maintenance faster than fescues and bents has For example, ‘wear tolerance’ is a Barolympic looks set to become Tables S1, L1 & G4. ing greens. Development on 01359 272000. programme in the UK. enormous implications in allowing difficult characteristic to quantify. For most facilities, it’s an abso- turf renovation to be performed It is most commonly assessed by lute necessity and even on the best outside of the summer playing analysing visually or by objective drained sites with minimal play, season. Even maintenance-wise means how much ground cover there will be areas that suffer from they have significant benefits, persists after a period of artificial factors such as wear or shade that producing far less thatch than or real wear. Barenbrug undertake result in turf loss of other grass spe- other species, despite having higher wear trials at many of our Research cies and the subsequent invasion nutrient demands. Stations, including our trial site at of Poa annua. The key is to select Cropvale in Worcestershire and at the right ryegrass cultivars for the It’s all about the blend Bingley as part of the BSPB Turf- job, and target their use to specific Specific applications and envi- grass Seed Booklet assessments. areas. ronmental conditions demand In terms of individual cultivars, different characteristics and Barorlando and Barcristalla have Benefits of ryegrass over other performance capability. Within the excelled in recent years. turfgrass species ryegrass species, characteristics Different wear actions impact Potential benefits of perennial such as tolerance to wear, drought, varying degrees of damage, ryegrass over more traditional disease, salt, shade, mowing whether through high footfall on summer sport turf species are well height, cool temperature growth, golf courses or the demands of a documented. Their far superior leaf width, colour and recovery tee. Environmental conditions and following stress vary considerably. maintenance programmes also wear tolerance and ability to sur- Got a burning question? vive in cold and damp rootzones The extensive ryegrass breeding Get in touch with Dr David impact on the capability of a culti- Greenshields, Barenbrug var to withstand wear pressure. has already resulted in their almost and applied research and develop- Research and Development ubiquitous use in clay-dominant ment programme at Barenbrug Manager for in-depth technical Wear tolerance must be consid- advice. Tel: 01359 272000. cricket squares and tennis courts. enables us to offer greenkeepers a www.barenbrug.co.uk ered alongside such pressures as
52 GI JANUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd JANUARY 2015 GI 53 TURF DAMAGE
A well understood set of factors makes sports turf particularly susceptible to disease, with some like heavy footfall setting turf apart from most, if not all other plant production systems. That said, frequent high intensity mowing is probably the single biggest, albeit unavoidable, factor predisposing professional turf to disease at the hands of wound- infecting pathogens.
Factors affecting infection Intrinsic to sports turf is the ‘eternal’ thatch layer of dead and dying grass tissue at the base of the sward, and the feeding ground for a large number of different fungal saprophytes - the majority of which stay in saprophytic nutrition mode. However, a few ‘loose-cannon’ pathogens like Microdochium nivale (Fusarium patch) and Col- letotrichum cereale (anthracnose) may lay in wait before exploding into full-blown parasitic modes to cause economically damaging levels of disease in response to changing environmental conditions and the dynamics of grass growth. Next is the perpetual pressure on turf managers to make greens look great day in, day out with colour the most important but often the most superficial of players’ demands. Greenkeepers are well aware of the double-edged nature of lush green grass growth but pres- sures to keep fine turf appearing pristinely green with quick fix fertilisers is always there, and over- egging the nitrogen will invariably create ideal conditions for turf disease. In late spring and early summer when grass growth takes off is the time to reduce nitrogen. Also on the list is wear and tear mostly from the pressures of play but additionally the fleets of wheeled vehicles and machinery Growing, mowing essential for contemporary sports turf management. Of course, these machines This month Dr Terry Mabbett are generally on the turf almost looks at the ‘cutting edge’ of turf every day. Acute stress caused by physical damage to grass plants and fungicide disease and examines the many and chronic stress caused by soil different ways in which golf courses compaction reduce the resilience of sports turf to fungal infection and experience turf damage disease development. Damage which can open the way for fungal infection comes in a spraying wide range of forms. From obvious examples like the cuts, tears and abrasions as collateral damage There is an interesting set of inter-relationships between from aeration, de-compaction and grass growth, mowing and de-thatching programmes, to much fungicide spraying (Picture courtesy Syngenta) more subtle forms of damage.
54 GI JANUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd JANUARY 2015 GI 55 Feature TURF DAMAGE
Classic fall-out from the latter is new clean-cut wound is inflicted Contact protectant versus mowing on turf disease manage- protected by fungicide moving out gain entry via the foliage logically the anthracnose pathogen exploit- cell sap rich in sugars and soluble systemic suppressive ment. of its reservoir within the rest of the require more exact spray applica- ing turf grass plants bruised by golf nutrients exudes to form discrete fungicide A key benefit of systemic fungi- plant and into the new leaf growth. tion. Fungicide deposited on the balls landing on the green. It is not droplets at the cut surface. The growing, mowing and spray- cides is that once inside the leaf, An extra potential benefit is foliage will perform the intended uncommon to find anthracnose Wound pathogens are therefore ing scenario for contact protectant the actives form a protective shield protection of the cut leaf ends. Sap function but any running off into appearing in autumn as tiny and presented with prime points and fungicides is relatively simple and from within while inhibiting and seeping from cut ends as discrete the soil is essentially lost and discreet round patches correspond- routes of entry into the leaf and straightforward. suppressing established infections droplets may contain systemic wasted. ing to grass plant bruising from the a favourable substrate for spore These traditional fungicides inside the grass plant. fungicide. Systemic fungicides able to force of impacting golf balls. germination, infection and disease remain on the leaf surface as spar- Curative and eradicant are terms enter the grass plant through Once a green is infected with a establishment. ingly soluble deposits to protect the frequently used to describe the Growing, mowing and the foliage and the roots are cor- prolific spore producing pathogen A less appreciated dimension to leaf by killing the fungal pathogen capability of systemic fungicides, fungicide spraying respondingly less sensitive to spray like Microdochium nivale (Fusar- mowing is loss of fungicide from on at some point during the spore ger- although it is doubtful whether any Relationships between growing, specifications including higher ium Patch) wheeled machinery will or inside excised portions of leaves mination and leaf infection process. will completely eradicate a fungal mowing and fungicide spraying are volume rates resulting in run-off simply spread the infection across and placed there to protect the Mowing will automatically infection from within the grass of immense practical significance or any wash-off effects of rainfall or the golf green. leaf against infection or to manage remove fungicide adhering to plant tissue. in practical turf management. irrigation before fungicide deposits When used on Fusarium- existing fungal infections inside the those distil leaf portions excised as Systemic fungicides can provide Essential to the equation is choice are properly dry. infected greens carrying excess plant. clippings and new leaf growth put a protective function while on the of contact protectant or systemic So, there is the opportunity for surface moisture, fungal spores are Mowing carried out at times of on by the plant after mowing will surface of the leaf and before the suppressive fungicide in relation to roots to have a second bite at the freely spread and the disease can high disease risk will almost cer- remain unprotected until the next active fungicide molecules gain the rate of grass growth. fungicide cherry. subsequently show up as tramlines tainly be cutting grass which has fungicide spray. entry into the plant. There is no point in using a It is instructive to know the time across the green corresponding to previously been sprayed with a As regards effect of fungicide systemic fungicide when growth period for a particular systemic The design and development ABOVE: Get it wrong and diseases wheel movements. fungicide product. of systemic fungicides which like Fusarium Patch shown here loss from mowing there are several is slow or non-existent because fungicide to penetrate the cuticle Careful consideration of fungi- first appeared in the early 1970s will soon ‘get away’ (photo: Bayer) distinct advantages of using a sys- efficient uptake through leaf or root and epidermis and move into leaf The cutting edge to turf cide fate in relation to mowing is brought a whole new dimension to ABOVE LEFT: Mid-summer temic fungicide. First benefit relates requires grass to be in an active tissue. and fast growing turf grass is not disease important on three counts. The turf disease control. the time or the place to be using to the truly systemic fungicides and state of growth. Mowing too soon after spraying All that said, the single biggest fungicide is there for a purpose - Superior versatility of systemic contact protectant fungicides their subsequent movement into all Equally there is no mileage in may remove a disproportionate clear-cut factor contributing to turf disease control - and if removed in fungicides for turf disease control is ABOVE RIGHT: As the autumn parts of the grass plant (following using a contact protectant fungi- amount of systemic fungicide if the disease is removal of leaf tips every the clippings it cannot do the job. afforded by their ability to be taken period comes to an increasingly absorption by the foliage and/or cide during periods of rapid grass product is still on the surface of the ‘bitter’ end and grass growth slows time mower blades clip the surface, Turf fungicides are an important up by the leaves and/or roots and right down, a contact protectant root system). growth because within hours of grass plant. product to ‘see’ the turf safely and on a daily basis when growth is and costly element of sports turf be moved around inside the plant through the winter is the most Mowing will still remove the application there will be new leaf This problem should not arise fast, playing pressure high and turf management and mowing fungi- to a greater or lesser extent. appropriate choice of fungicide same several mm of leaf but only surface unprotected against dis- with a contact protectant fungicide management accordingly intense. cide-treated grass is unavoidably By the same token systemic fun- RIGHT: Greenkeepers are well take with it a miniscule amount of ease. provided it is applied at an appro- Mowing may only sever several throwing money onto the clippings gicides tend on balance to buffer aware of the need to consider the systemic fungicide. New grass Contact protectant and systemic priate time, which is during periods mowing schedule in relation to the mm of grass leaf but each time a heap. the impact of fungicide loss from timing of fungicide sprays growth put on post-mowing will be suppressive fungicides which only of low or zero grass leaf growth.
56 GI JANUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd JANUARY 2015 GI 57 FeOPaENtu SUPPre ORT TEAM Feature We want Join the BIGGA Open Support Team at the home of golf you in July 2015
Now is your chance to join during the tournament itself. You summed it up when he said “You BIGGA’s Open Championship may also be required to help out must apply, try and get picked Volunteer Support Team for with early morning preparation and enjoy it for yourself. The best the 144th tournament at St work and evening divot duties moments of my life are my wedding Andrews in July 2015. until the end of the final round on day, the birth of my son and now The R&A have again asked BIGGA Sunday 19 July. walking up the 18th on the final to supply a Support Team of volun- It’s intense and tiring, but a day of The Open. As I walked over teer greenkeepers and The R&A will superb professional and personal the bridge at the end I was really again be providing accommodation, development opportunity, and quite choked because it hit me it food, refreshments and uniform. also an excellent chance to meet was all over.” This team, made up of full BIGGA the home greenkeeping team and To apply, please fill in this applica- members, will support the home other BIGGA members from across tion form in full and return by post greenkeeping team at St Andrews. a huge variety of courses. to Rachael Duffy, BIGGA House, Arriving on site on Sunday 12 Tony Bartram, Greenkeeper Aldwark, Alne, York, YO61 1UF by July, members of the team will be at The Richmond Golf Club, was Friday 30 January 2015. The team required to rake for the players a member of last year’s team and will be announced in February.
Name I have applied for/appeared ...... on the team at: Applied .Successful Golf Club ...... Royal Liverpool, 2014...... q...... q...... Position ...... Age...... Muirfield, 2013...... q...... q...... BIGGA Membership Number Royal Lytham & St Annes, 2012...... q...... q...... Home address Royal St George’s, 2011...... q...... q...... St Andrews, 2010...... q...... q...... Yes No ...... I have been a BIGGA member for more than three years.....q.....q Email Address ...... I serve, or have served in the last three years, Mobile Number on a Section/Region Committee...... q.....q ...... q Passport photo attached?...... I have attended three of the last five BTMEs...... q.....q Waterproof measurements; waist...... leg. length...... Polo shirt measurement; chest...... I am/have been a member of the PGA Are you available for the Early Morning Prep team from Championship Support Team...... q.....q Monday 13th July?...... q q Sunday final night (19th July) accommodation required?... I am willing to be a mini bus driver (You must have held a full driving license Any specific dietary needs?...... for three years and be over 25 years of age.)...... q.....q If so please state...... IMP O RTANT INF Please declare any medical issues we should be made aware of I am an overseas Member...... q.....q ......
Note: A place on the team is open to all full BIGGA members but priority will be given to the more active members. Subject to the availability of sufficient numbers of experienced team members no regular team member will be selected for more than three teams in succession. A limited number of places will be made available to younger members and overseas members. Please ensure that you have spoken to your golf club or Course Manager prior to applying and have arranged the time off. To apply please fill in the application form and enclose a passport photograph and send to Rachael Duffy, BIGGA House, Aldwark, Alne, York YO61 1UF. Closing date is 30 January 2015. You will be notified by the end of February if you have been successful.
58 GI JANUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd JANUARY 2015 GI 59 Section Notes Please email your notes to All the latest news from your Section, steve.castle After over a decade reporting the Section News, Sean @bigga.co.uk McDade has taken well deserved retirement. Many will by the 10th in your new-look notes pages... of the month be left with fond memories of his eccentric news items over the years, and for that we are grateful. Thanks Sean, Midland it was memorable! The Section wish Keith Swan a happy retirement from his role as Deputy Course Manager at Penn Golf Club. Keith joined the greenkeeping team while a member of the Club in the latter stages of his working life and Around the green proved invaluable, showing great commitment to the Club. Enjoy retirement Keith!
BB&O Avoncrop Amenity. Good luck in your new venture. The Turkey Trot was held at Frilford Heath GC in Great attendance for our Christmas Comp at Glyn Neath GC Contact your Section correspondent with news, December. The course was in fantastic condition, thank heavy rain the previous night, but the course held up extremely events or anything else for Around the green... you to the team at Frilford who looked after everyone well, excellent condition. superbly. In particular our thanks go to Sid Arrowsmith Results: 9th Big D – Clive Moran 12th & Peter Lacey on the 15th, and his team for a truly great course. Results: 1 Ted’s South West Longest Drive -Ian aka The mighty Kinley, Best Trade Peter Lacey, Boyz captained by Ted Lewis, 2nd And the Winners Are Main Comp: 3 Big D, 2 Marc Anderton, 1 Rhys McDonough. The led by Simon Banks, 3rd 4 Skins led by Tony May. section’s fixture list for 2015 will soon be sent by email or your The AGM was held before the meal with the board & South preferred method of contact. If you have news for GI please call me re-elected. Matt Nutter will continue as secretary until on 07429 315987 or Email. BB&O - The Stick MID ANGLIA MIDLAND EAST OF ENGLAND EAST MIDLAND a replacement is found. Congratulations to Matt who bboscribe@gmail. Darren Mugford Dave Collins Steve Beverly Matt Gilks becomes the Chairman for the Midland Region. It was com or Matt Nutter d.mugford@ greendave2004@ steveimmingham@ [email protected] Wales SOUTH COAST bbosecretary@gmail. rigbytaylor.com hotmail.co.uk aol.com also great to see Regional Administrator Roger Butler. Turkey Trot at Barton on Sea - we would all like to pass on our com Hope everyone had a good Christmas and look forward to thanks to Tony Gadd and his team for the course, it was in terrific seeing you all at this year’s events. Contact your Section correspondent with news, condition. Events Coming Up events or anything else for Around the green... Also thanks to the Clubhouse and catering staff for making us MID ANGLIA feel very welcome and dishing up a great meal. Results: 1 Brock EAST MIDLAND On 10 December we held our Turkey Trot at Ashridge 1, Kevin Glass, Jackson Ainley and Doug Spencer, 2 Remedy 1, Don’t forget the Midland Seminar in February! GC where 92 golfers attended. Thanks to Ashridge Rob Hogarth, Pete Corrick and Matthew Clarke, 3 Ed Cary, Gareth GC for hosting for the superb food and hospitality. A Thomas and Rich Mortimer. Nearest pin Tony Gadd, longest drive MIDLAND massive thank you goes to James Camfield and his team Phil Nason. There are lots of events this year, more details coming up, check the for providing everyone with a wonderfully presented I must also add that our score was ticking along nicely until we website course. Results: 1 V Holt, R Holt, S Cherry and S Ketch stepped onto the 18th tee facing the island green - we sent down with a net score of 57 and a handicap of 2. 2 L Thorpe, SOUTH WEST – SOUTH COAST – DEVON & SOUTH WALES www.biggamidlandsection.co.uk or on Facebook. Jaey Goodchild Russell Riley, CORNWALL Andrew Hatcher three into the water! For any info regards future events please D Thompson, D Griffiths, R Marsden 58.8. 3 S Gregory, j.goodchild@ rriley@countrywide Cameron Mcmorrin andrewhatcher1@ bowood.org farmers.co.uk cjmcmorrin@gmail. msn.com check our website [email protected] or email rriley@ G James, A Cussial, S Hall 59.1. Nearest the Pin on the com countrywidefarmers.co.uk News 8th – R Moggeridge and on the 11th hole was J Gubb.
SOUTH WEST EAST MIDLAND EAST OF ENGLAND Events Coming Up Yet again there was a sterling turn-out for the Christmas East Midlands has seen some changes, with a new committee and Unfortunately due to the ‘weather bomb’ that Tournament held at Cirencester Golf Club. A substantial amount lots planned for 2015. The new committee is Nigel Colley (Rothley exploded over us we had to cancel the Christmas Texas SOUTH COAST was raised for the Greenkeepers Benevolent Fund through the Park GC) as Chairman, Andy Marsh (Charnwood) Vice Chair. Andy scramble at Cleethorpes GC. It’s always difficult to plan have you put your shorts away yet? Asa English is Secretary, Chris South Coast Seminar 18 February, again to be held at raffle, thanks to Nobby for all his efforts in organising. for a competition this time of year as who knows what Weir (Market Harborough) Education, Martin Hickling (Rothley) is Milton Abbey School, with some good speakers including A big thank you to Richard and all of the team at Cirencester and the weather will bring us and how it can change so Treasurer, Chris Taylor (Willersley) also Education and Matt Gilks Rob Hogarth and Greg Evans. to committee members Joe and Lucy for their efforts in ensuring dramatically in a day or so. success on the day. (Farol) trade rep, I will also be writing the notes so any stories please Rob had managed to get the course looking good for us SOUTH WEST Congratulations to two of our members who have been awarded contact me [email protected]. until the weather turned. We are looking into rearranging The section is sad to lose Ash Robinson from Market Harborough A valuable opportunity for certified chainsaw operators sponsored attendance to BTME 2015. The section place was it early next year, details TBC. who is heading to a private school after 10 years service in the section to undertake refresher training has been organise awarded to Tom Wright from Long Ashton GC and the region place he will be missed. for January. Dates are yet to be confirmed allowing went to Elliott Nichols from Cotswold Hills GC. From the Autumn event at Coxmoor winners on the day were flexibility in scheduling. Please contact Paul Worster Martin Hicking, Jordon Baker and Geoff Fenn. Congratulations, it ([email protected]) or Stuart Bowman (s.bowman@ Thanks to Sponsors would be great to see some more faces in 2015. thornburygc.co.uk) for details. The East Mids Facebook page is going well and all are invited Please keep an eye out for the South West fixtures list SOUTH WEST to send images and info over. We would also like to thank Carl to be published shortly after Christmas. All of our Section Many thanks to our South West Section 2014 Patrons: Chamberlin and Simon Banks who are committed to help supporting events are open to members of other sections, please feel Sportsmark, Greensman, Irritech, Headland Amenity, the section going forward. free to attend as everyone is welcome. Countrywide, Farmura, Ecosolve, T H White and Indigrow for their BTME is fast approaching and we look forward to seeing you
invaluable support of South West Section events and training. all there at some point. Hope you and your families have a great News Christmas and New Year. Welcome New Members SOUTH WALES MIDLAND The regional conference was a huge success with great A fab day was had at Blackwell for the Christmas pairs competition Joshua Gunn, Greenkeeper, Lee-on-the-Solent Golf Club, Gary speakers, very low numbers attending from our section, kindly sponsored by Working Turf, a lovely sunny day on a great Cole, Assistant Greenkeeper, Romsey Golf Club. but lots planned for this year, we just need more support. course in fabulous condition. Congratulations to Rhys Thomas Congratulation to Ian Kinley and his team at and his team and a special thanks to all our sponsors. Results:1 J Royal Porthcawl GC, they won the BIGGA/Baroness New International Members - USA Chamberlain & R Thomas 2 T Cheese & H Middlebrook 3 E Stant & Championship Greenkeeping Performance of the Year M Stevens 4 G Hugget & D Fellows. Nearest the pin: 2nd D Fellows, Award at the IOG Awards. Erin Stevens, CGCS International Greenkeeper, Emerald Dunes 6th E Stant, 9th J Chamberlain, 13th J Moverley, 18th H Brooke. For Rhys Norville is the new Sales representative for Club, Kaye Pierson, International Greenkeeper, Pinehurst Resort. photos visit www.facebook.com/BiggaMidlandSection
60 GI JANUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd JANUARY 2015 GI 61 Around The Green Around The Green
Myself and Bruce had the privilege of being invited out in great condition and a wonderful Christmas dinner a good financial end to the year, the section has donated £1000 with the National Board after their meeting at Woodhall afterwards. A big thank you to Craig Gibson [Course from funds to the Greenkeepers Benevolent Fund. Spa recently. Manager] and Paul Densham [Director of Golf] for making It was good to get an insight into how the board the day so special. The winning team were Rob Catlin, ESSEX operates and some of the upcoming things that are going South East Matt Corbould, Mick Catlin and Thro, on 57.9. Close The AGM and Christmas Texas Scramble were held at Orsett to be introduced in the next year or so. behind was Craig Gibson, James Boyle, Matthew Cohen Golf Club with 14 four man teams. Results: 1 Boyce Hill Golf Club It was also a good chance to get some ideas across and myself on 58.8 and in third Stuart Playle, Andy 60.2, 2 Banks Amenity 60.9, 3 Frinton Golf Club 61.9. Nearest directly from our section as well as the usual tales of woe Dormer, Michael Elderfield and Keir Grimmer on 60.8. Pin Wayne Wilson and Steve Crosdale. Greenkeeper Golfer of the from our courses from this time of year. Year – Ross Sturridge, Boyce Hill Golf Club. Trade Golfer of the Rob Welford (Cleethorpes GC Course Manager) is the EAST ANGLIA Year – Steve Bush, Ernest Doe & Sons regional board member so our section has a direct link Once again the Thorpeness Turkey Trot was a great Our thanks to Perry Lowe and his greenkeeping team, the to the Board should anyone wish for him to raise any day out, due mainly to the tireless efforts of Ian Willett. course was in great order. All the players were very grateful for the issues. 28 teams played on a top rate course - well done mate. hospitality shown by the staff of Orsett Golf Club. Our thanks also It was also good to meet Roger Butler, our new regional Pretty close results: 1 The Ice Age 4 Peter Howard, Brian go to the Captain and members. administrator. On behalf of the committee I would like to Contact your Section correspondent with news, Lindores, Nick Staff and Peter Cooney on count back The Committee members elected for the next year were: President welcome him and look forward to a long and prosperous events or anything else for Around the green... 58pts. 2 Rushmere Hackers Michael Buck, Terry Mills, – Martin Forrester, Chairman – Ian Wood, Secretary – Arnold relationship with him. Paul Smythe and David Driver 58. 3 Willetts Wonders Phipps-Jones, Treasurer – Tom Smith, Competitions – Antony Best wishes to Ash Rycroft who is leaving Cleethorpes Chris Guy, Mark Barber, Laurence Staff and Geoff Kirwan, Sponsors Representative – Richard Freeman (Toro), two GC at the end of the year to take up a position at Barber 58.2. 4 Virley’s Viscounts Mike Virley, Ian Palfey, positions are still available - Education and Committee Member. Wentworth. Ash has spent two years as an apprentice Danny Barton and Russell Rayner 58.3. with Rob and will be a great addition to the team down Nearest the Pin: 2nd Graham Shillings, 7th Ed there. Pickford, 10th Edward Clarkson, 16th Nick Chase. Thanks to Sponsors Hopefully as many section members as possible will be Nearest the Pin in Two: Laurence Staff! EAST ANGLIA visiting BTME. A section meeting will be held to finalise SURREY KENT SUSSEX EAST ANGLIA Essex LONDON Then came the AGM. I think we finally agreed to give Mark Day Rob Holland Chris Mick Lathrope Arnold John Wells Thanks once again to our very generous trade members who plans for the year. If anyone has any ideas for education £500 to charity from the kitty. We thanked all the clubs mark@ premiergolf Humphrey lil.lathrope@ Phipps-Jones j.wells1@sky include CMW, Toro, Ransomes Jacobsen, Aitkens, Rigby Taylor, opportunities, seminar days or golf days or would like to daylinks.co.uk 2012@hotmail. chris@collier- ntlworld.com essexbigga@ .com for accommodating us this year, and thanked all the co.uk turf-care.co.uk talktalk.net Ernest Doe, Bartram Mowers, Tacit, SGI, Headland, Sherriff volunteer for the committee please get in touch. trade for their continued support, which is probably our Amenity. life line. Events Coming Up We need a few more venues for next year. So far we Thanks to Sponsors have Newmarket Links, Dunston Hall and Aldeburgh. SUSSEX Thanks to all sponsors of the Turkey Trot, particularly ernest Doe The prices next year for these events will be £25, except LONDON and Lister Wilder. A big thanks to all the sponsors of the section for MIDLAND the Turkey Trot which will be £30. Thanks to Working Turf for all your turf care need Next year’s courses in spring and summer will be at Highgate and their continued support throughout the year. All existing officers were re-elected. The President’s including laser leveling, and for sponsoring the Blackwell Bush Hill Park, further details TBC. prize went to a young man, Kevin Leech, who Colin saw Christmas Pairs. Contact them at www.workingturf. Education for 2015: Three short sessions which are free and include very ill in hospital. He is a young greenkeeper with a KENT co.uk or call them on 01733 241510. Also thanks to all tea/coffee and a snack are all at Mill Hill GC 12.30 until 2pm. More Many thanks to Lister Wilder who provided the refreshment young family. We wish him a speedy recovery. our regular sponsors for raffle prizes and nearest the pin. details:7 January ‘Rules of Golf That Affect the Greenkeeper’ by Louis buggy at Redlibbets. Matamara Herts County Golf Union Secretary [a must for younger staff!) 4 February ‘Irrigation/the many years of running an Irrigation SUSSEX BB&O 28 November saw the Turkey Trot held at Worthing Turkey Trot was kindly sponsored by T H Whites & company’ by Stuart Sanders of SJS Irrigation. Welcome New Members Golf Club. Many thanks to George Barr for all his work Ransomes Jacobsen. Without the continued support of 25 February ‘Chemicals/getting the best performance from them’ in arranging this and also to all his team for presenting Wendy Moffatt, Affiliate, Merrist Wood College, Stephen Ramsay, our sponsors the golf days would not happen, so a big John Beck and Mike Williamson of Sherriff Amenity. such a fine course on the day. Pete Smith, Ryan Hyder, Affiliate, Root2Shoot Greenkeeping Services Ltd, Justin Clark, thank you to them. The Big day at Oakland College Smallford is on 17 February with 4 great speakers covering the V’s first with by John Ross MG on Vibration John Ross and James Briggs won with 62 pts. Beating Deputy Head Greenkeeper, West Middlesex Golf Club, Heath the teams from Mitchells and Pyecombe Golf Club into MID ANGLIA and noise at work. Second is Steve Chappell on Volunteering and the Taylor, Greenkeeper, Minchinhampton Golf Club, Robert Durrant, 2nd and 3rd respectively both with 61pts. Greenkeeper, Enfield Golf Club, Daryl Tedstone, Greenkeeper, Thanks to all the reps who continue to support the Ryder Cup, third is Laurence Pithie MG on Vision, and last but not least Limpsfield Chart Golf Club, Anthony Sunney, Greenkeeper, West events and for their raffle prize donations. the Stella Rixon from STRI on Variation changes in GK in the last decade. KENT Middlesex Golf Club, Brian Lisle, Greenkeeper, Stonelees Golf We would like to offer special thanks to Mark House 18 March, Billy MacMillan will be demonstrating the Dry Jet sand Nearly 50 of Kent’s finest gathered at Redlibbets. Centre, Michael Harris, Greenkeeper, Royal Mid-Surrey Golf from Ernest Doe for keeping everybody refreshed at the injection system at Muswell Hill GC. Despite incessant rain for the six weeks prior to the Club, Innes Blight, Greenkeeper, Royal Mid-Surrey Golf Club, halfway house. Christmas golf day 8 December 2015 Moor Park. event Kev, Mark and the Redlibbets crew had managed Christopher Hoar, Greenkeeper, Guildford Golf Club, Donny A massive thanks to our Sponsors of the section for Don’t forget BTME - a great time to meet fellow greenkeepers, advance to present the course in superb condition. Results: 1 Reece, Groundsman, Ascot Racecourse, Scott Lea, Groundsman, 2014: ALS, Headland Amenity, Avoncrop Amenity, your knowledge and keep up to date with new products. Richard Larkin 41pts (wins Everris Shield), 2 Chris Fulham Football Club, Reon Sanford, Head Groundsman, Ascot Farmura, Rigby Taylor Ltd, Amenity Technology, Witchlow 40, 3 Dave Bass 39. Longest Drive: Matt Racecourse, Joe Curtis, Assistant Greenkeeper, Knole Park Golf Tuckwells Machinery. KENT Daniels. Nearest pins Dan McGrath and Michael Club, Aaron Taylor, Assistant Greenkeeper, Park Wood Golf Club,
2015 Events: Roberts. Trade: Chris Boakes. Taylor Allbut, Assistant Greenkeeper, Croham Hurst Golf Club, Welcome New Members Royal St. Georges Golf Club - 10 March Thank you to everyone for your continuing support of Graeme Jones, Assistant Greenkeeper, Muswell Hill Golf Club, Faversham Golf Club - 14 May me and Kev in our roles of organisers of section events. Anthony Dineen, Assistant Greenkeeper, Top Meadow Golf Club, Daniel McClaren, Greenkeeper, Ladbrook Park Golf Walmer & Kingsdown GC – 19 September A big thank you to all our trade members who have Paul Kenward, Assistant Greenkeeper, Cobtree Manor Park Golf Club, Thomas Shortley, Greenkeeper, Ladbrook Park Redlibbets Golf Club - 26 November supported so generously over the past year. It is through Club, Greg Mewett, Assistant Greenkeeper, Cobtree Manor Park Golf Club, Damien Wiskin, Head Groundsman, North their commitment that our section continues to exist Golf Club, Stuart Reece-Ford, Assistant Greenkeeper, Maldon Golf Oxford Golf Club, Ellis Wellstead, Assistant Greenkeeper, SURREY and is able to host subsidised events and educational Club, Harry Hart, Assistant Greenkeeper, Lee-on-the-Solent Golf Oxford Golf Club Ltd, Jacob Smith, Assistant Merrist Wood College seminar has been organised prior to BTME. This possibilities. Club, Aaron Davies, Assistant Greenkeeper, Wisley (The) Golf Club Greenkeeper, Alfreton Golf Club, Craig Potts, Assistant event is free and a chance to earn CPD credits. Details on the new Surrey Plc Greenkeeper, Coventry Hearsall Golf Club, Chris website. If any club can host a golf day, Scott Roberts will be keen to hear SURREY Hodgkinson, Course Manager, Carus Green Ltd, John from you. Congratulations to Graeme Roberts who has earned a place on the BIGGA Delegation to America. Parry, Greenkeeper, Wrexham Golf Club, Christopher Please send your news and photos in to your Moores, Greenkeeper, Macclesfield Golf Club, Richard For this year if you are unfortunate enough to walk the Stanwix, Greenkeeper, Bamburgh Castle Golf Club, News longest walk or come last in any of the golf days, you will section correspondent or Steve Castle Chris Jones, Greenkeeper, St Annes Old Links Golf Club, be expected to sharpen your 7 iron and represent Surrey [email protected] by the 10th Myles Davies, Assistant Greenkeeper, Heswall Golf Club, LONDON in the Tri section event between Essex, Kent and Surrey of the month Josh Crackett, Assistant Greenkeeper, Blackwell Grange Tuesday 9 December saw the section play its Xmas tournament at later in the year. Golf Club. Essendon Golf and Country Club, and we were all treated to a golf course Surrey Facebook is up and running, check it out! After
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anything golf to education, get in touch and we will make The committee is: Chairman - Scott Reeves (Leyland GC), sure it gets put forward. Within the Section we have two Vice Chairmen - Chris Gibson (Dunham Forest GC), John very able and enthusiastic board members: Martin Woods McLoughlin (Grange Park GC), Secretary - Chris Sheehan - [email protected] 07766 884405 & Pete Newton - (West Derby GC), Treasurer - Billy Merritt (DCT Leisure), Northern [email protected] 07855 377989 Membership Officer - Nick Gray (Bathgate Amenity), Golf There have been lots of things happening starting with a Organiser - David Weir (Rigby Taylor), Education Officer Toro training day held at Mowden Park arena in Darlington. - Gwynn Davies (The Mere), GI Correspondents and The seminar covered after cut appearance and a sprayer Communications Officers - Tom Wood (Sportsturf Tutor refresher. This was a quality day organised by Lloyds Ltd. Myerscough College) & Tim Johnson (Wilmslow GC). Next was a free seminar held at Scarthingwell Golf Club, which covered an update of the BIGGA constitution, a NORTH WALES discussion on dealing with committees and STRI providing Thanks to Wallasey GC for their hospitality in allowing a talk on managing soils for surface performance. This us to hold our Christmas event there, also thanks go event was well represented by the Cleveland Section and it to Chris Peddie and the lads for an exceptional course. Contact your Section correspondent with news, was good to see everyone there. Results: 1 Dave Austin, James Hampson, Ritchie events or anything else for Around the green... Free events are popping up quite regularly - valuable Walker and Andrew Cornes 89pts, 2 Rich Shields, John benefits of being a member of BIGGA. In the past I Carmichael, Harry Kemp and Jim O’Connor 87, 3 Martin questioned what BIGGA did for me other than provide Lee, John Corbitt, Nick Roberts and Mike Hughes 86, 4 me with a magazine every month. It wasn’t until I started Phil Watson, Chris Peddie, Dan Fitzgerald, Dan Gale 86, 5 to get more involved that I realised what the Association Ian Murphy, Alan Carson, Zach Parry and Dave Hird 85. actually did. It provides chances to network socially and We also ran a course walk on the same day and a big professionally, improves your working knowledge through thank you has to go to Lee and Jason for their informative NORTH EAST NORTH WEST CLEVELAND NORTHERN SHEFFIELD North Wales regular free seminars, not to mention the BTME and insights. Glen Baxter Tom Wood Anthony Andy Slingsby Ian Whitehead Pete Maybury glen.baxter@ & Tim Johnson McGeough andy.slingsby98@ admin@ petemayb66@ Continue to Learn programmes. Sorry if that sounds like a The AGM was held at Wallasey, your committee now rigbytaylor.com tomwoodtmw@ amcgeough@ googlemail.com hillsborough aol.com gmail.com/tim_ aol.com golfclub.co.uk bit of a rant but I suppose it is! looks like this: President Terry Adamson, Chairman/ [email protected] Competition highlight of 2014 was the first ever Section Treasurer Carl Crocher, Golf coordinator/Board victory in the Northern Region Whitemoss Eco Inter member, Jeremy Hughes, Magazine notes/Text Alerts Events Coming Up Section Competition, held on a fresh September morning Pete Maybury, Education/Seminars Rhys Butler and at Northumberland Golf Club. Well done to M Woods, P Paul Lowe, Membership Neil Oxton, Handicaps Andrew The British Rootzone and Top Dressing CLEVELAND Hargreaves, D Cuthbertson and B Walker! Cornes, Social media Simon Ashford, Committee secretary 11 March 2015 at Chester le Street Golf Club – FREE Seminars and The Christmas Golf Day was held at Cleveland GC. It David Wilkinson, Trade rep John Mooney. Please feel free Manufacturers Association (BRTMA) is the workshops to be confirmed. was a cold but enjoyable day. The format was stableford, to contact us with any section queries we are here to help. trade body representing manufacturers full handicap with the best two scores counting. Results: Congratulations to Miles Todd for getting a place on NORTH WEST 1 A McGeough, A Whitby, I Leversuch 73pts. 2 L Hunt, D the BIGGA Bernhard Delegation, Rhys and Paul will be of Rootzones and/or Top Dressings, all BTME 2015 – don’t forget to pre-register to avoid queues! Thompson, P Legg 67, 3 S Waters, I Pemberton, M Woods smelling a seminar talk out of that visit I’m sure. of which must conform to a standard 67, 4 A Reed, T Maddison, A Russell 64, 5 J Warlow, B NORTH WALES Walker, N Blesic 60, 6 R Douglas, B McGratten 46. Longest SHEFFIELD approved by the Association’s appointed We are again this year running a coach to BTME on Thursday 22 drive R Douglas. Nearest the pin M Woods Christmas comp at Bondhay GC Results: 1P Hobson Testing House i.e. USGA or UK guidelines. January, there may still be seats available please contact me or Jeremy 36 pts (countback), 2nd L Greveson 36, 3 S Piggot 34. Hughes as soon as possible if you are interested. NORTH WEST Trade prize P Fell. Nearest pins were M Robinson, A Seminar planned for 18 February at the Deeside campus of Coleg Congratulations to Mark Hillaby, Course Manager Whittingham, P Hobson, L.Greveson. Cambria, speakers and subjects to be announced. at Macclesfield GC for winning the Bert Cross Trophy Congratulations to Michael Burgin from Normanby Christmas Competition at The Wilmslow GC. Secondly Hill GC who has been selected for the John Deere TPC SHEFFIELD congratulations to Warren Bevan for becoming Course Sawgrass Support Team The AGM will be on Wednesday 18 February at Grange Park Golf Club Manager at Bearwood Lakes, the committee thanks him for at 6.30pm. There seems to be a lack of interest within the section so if his hard work and support over the years. Thanks to Sponsors BRTMA is made up of the anyone has got any ideas or anything you want bring up please come Finally congratulations to Edward Ainsworth, Course along. Manager at Avro GC, for winning the Greenkeeping following members: Achievement Of The Year Award at the IOG/BIGGA Awards. CLEVELAND Prizes for Christmas golf day provided by Greenlay. The AGM took place on November 11 at Wilmslow GC. News Raffle prizes supplied by Everris, Tacit, ERH and Amtech • Baileys of Norfolk Ltd and the money raised was donated to the BIGGA NORTH EAST Greenkeepers Benevolent Fund. • Banks Amenity Products Ltd Winter bring a bottle competition held at the Dunstanburgh Castle • Bathgate Silica Sand Ltd links, results: 1 G Baxter, 2 M Latham, 3 J Friar. Congratulations to NORTH WEST Simon Pearce from Alnwick GC on his monumental score of 3 points! The Section would like to thank all sponsors for 2014. • Boughton Loam Ltd Thanks to Stuart Imeson and his team for the superb condition of the Thank you to Bathgate Amenity for sponsoring the Prizes golf course, and to Dunstanburgh GC for their hospitality. for the Bert Cross Trophy competition. • Bourne Amenity Ltd Massive congratulations to Stuart Imeson on being awarded Young • Garside Sands Greenkeeper of the year at the IOG/BIGGA awards. This comes after NORTH WALES Dunstanburgh won the National Club Golfer Greenkeeping team of the We would like to thank the following companies for • Mansfi eld Sand Co Ltd year. Great achievement for the young team of Stuart, James Thorpe and sponsoring the coming year: Whitemoss Amenity, • Roffey Brothers Ltd Dan Wilkin! Symbio, Rigby Taylor, Germinal Seeds, Bathgate silica Congratulations also to Michael Gunn who has recently achieved 25 sand, MG Turfcare, Farmura Environmental, BMS Golf • Sibelco UK/Rufford years service at Tyneside GC, well done Michael! The North East section Luton, Campey Turfcare, Sherriff Amenity, Cheshire Turf still has vacancies for committee members, anyone interested should Machinery, Turner Groundcare, David Williams Golf • Tarmac Topsport email Simon on [email protected] Design, Allturf and Osprey Water Management. CLEVELAND Welcome New Member The AGM was held on 1 December and was attended by 18; with a w: www.brtma.com Section of just 84, this isn’t a bad take up. One of the main talking points Maurice Cotter, Assistant Greenkeeper, Carus Green was improving communication through the Section on to Regional and e: [email protected] Ltd. National boards. So if you have any concerns or matters of interest from
64 GI JANUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd JANUARY 2015 GI 65 Around The Green
Drumpellier GC receive the west section award. Thanks go to John Young for organising the event, to Stirling GC and also Alistair Connell for his Commonwealth Games seminar. Please contact me if you have any news on stuart.taylor@glasowgolfclub. Scotland com, 01419 425554 or 07790 823914, alternatively contact Used Machinery Gerry Bruen on [email protected] especially if you have not forwarded your current e-mail address, or you could visit the blog at http://westsectionbigga.blogspot.co.uk/ • Professional Golf Equipment SOUTH WEST OF SCOTLAND • Fairway mowers, greens and tees After much deliberation and discussion with members, it was agreed to rename the section South West Scotland. This was unanimously agreed at the AGM in October and it is hoped that mowers, Gator utility vehicles etc. this will lead to greater engagement with members throughout Contact your Section correspondent with news, the region including Dumfries, Galloway and the Isle of Arran. • Walk behind greens mowers events or anything else for Around the green... Thanks to Euan Grant for his support of the Association in the section and region during his time at Turnberry. Euan had been elected as the section’s chairman but has decided to take Visit our website to see our regularly on a new role with the grow-in of JCB’s planned golf course in Staffordshire. We wish him every success. updated used machinery listings at: Frank Clarkson, Course Superintendent at Dundonald Links, has agreed to become Chairman of the section with immediate www.farol.co.uk/groundcare
CENTRAL SOUTH WEST OF EAST NORTH WEST effect. Frank is looking forward to the challenge and is hoping to Gordon Moir SCOTLAND Scott Corrigan Robert Patterson Stuart Taylor build on the work started by Jim Paton and Euan. James Parker Gordon.moir@ Amanda Dorans & scottcorrigan4@ grassman351@ stuart.taylor@ standrews.org.uk Ian Smith aol.com aol.com glasgowgolfclub. from Ranfurly Castle has taken on the role of Education Officer amanda.dorans@ com lochlomond.com for the section. / iansmithgm@ The South West Section took part in a course visit to Loch Whether you’re looking after the back garden, or the hotmail.co.uk Lomond recently. We were treated to an excellent presentation ‘back nine’, we have a machine to suit your needs. by David Cole MG, Director of Course and Estate Management, Events Coming Up before Dave and Peter Haggarty treated the members to a Milton Common, Thame, Oxfordshire 01844 278843 walk around the course focusing on the continuing drainage Hinckley, Leicestershire 01455 638960 FarolLtd @FarolLtd WEST improvements. We would like to thank Dave and his team for Shefford, Hungerford, Berkshire 01488 648552 Scottish conference at Dunfermline on 3 March 2015, as usual their fantastic hospitality. e-mail: [email protected] a fine collection of speakers will be there and definitely worth a A new Facebook has been created for the section titled BIGGA Midhurst, West Sussex 01730 819981 visit. South West Scotland and we hope that our members contribute. Byfield, Daventry, Northamptonshire 01327 264844 www.farol.co.uk CENTRAL CENTRAL The Section are looking at holding an evening seminar in early Happy New Year to all our members and the Patrons who to mid-February, somewhere in the Angus area perhaps where supported us through 2014. members could invite other greenkeepers along from that area Our best wishes to Allan Patterson as he leaves The Castle Point of Play who aren’t members. More information will be emailed out and Course to take up his new position as Courses and Estates Tee Markers appear on our Facebook page as soon as we have things in place. Manager at Trump Turnberry after close on 10 years working Drive towards recycling for St Andrews Links. Allan has been a regular attendee at many from £3.95 News of the Section events over the years and his contribution will be missed. WEST EaglePlex Bin with optional ball washer and tee plate Happy New year to all and best wishes for the coming season, Thanks to Patrons here’s hoping it will be as good as the last 2 years or would EaglePlex Marker that be tempting fate? At this time we can reflect on what has SOUTH WEST OF SCOTLAND Hardwood happened through the year and the memories, the passing of We would like to thank David Carson from Rigby Taylor and Option friends and colleagues, the celebrations of weddings and births or Graeme King from Hugh King & Co for providing presentations at achievements. our AGM. Optional logo plate On that note I would like to mention the celebration of Nairn Brown Company having been in the business for 50 years last Welcome New Members Recycling sections Lift up Lid August, a very reputable company supplying superb service with Tee Caddy Marker a smile at all times, congratulations to them and I hope 2015 is slightly less traumatic. Rich Mackay, Affiliate Member, Stuart Tait, Greenkeeper, I would also like to mention Charlie Goodall of Balmore GC who Renaissance Club, Scott Eddie, Greenkeeper, Scotscraig Golf sadly is no longer a member but was for a very long time a good Club, Robert Mathieson, Head Greenkeeper, Machrihanish Golf supporter of the section and events. He has been unwell recently Club, Brian Scott, Head Greenkeeper, Blairgowrie Golf Club, and we do wish he recovers from his illness soon. Wayne Bendall, Student, SRUC (Elmwood), John McCaughley, Assistant Greenkeeper, Drumpellier Golf Club. The annual night out for the west section started off at a bar Manufactured in the UK Upright Marker near Charing Cross moving onto Mister Sings restaurant with 34 people turning up, everybody seemed to enjoy themselves. A few at the Eagle Plant pubs were visited after that and some merriment experienced, well done to Gerry Bruen and Alan Jack for helping to organise a good Please send your news and photos in to your Hardwood from £225 night. section correspondent or Steve Castle Best wishes for the coming season and nice to meet up with [email protected] by the 10th CONTACT EAGLE FOR MORE INFORMATION EaglePlex from £179 Alan Finlay at Partick Thistle and Jim Caldwell of Sandyhills, I’m t + 44 (0)1883 344244 e [email protected] w www.eagle.uk.com Octagonal Marker glad things are going well Jim. of the month (+ Delivery and VAT) The Patrons lunch was held at Stirling GC on 11 December which was very well attended and saw Andrew Orr from
66 GI JANUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd JANUARY 2015 GI 67 THE BRITISH AND INTERNATIONAL GOLF GREENKEEPERS ASSOCIATION s Trainin er g PRESENTS p C e o Greenkeepers Training e m k m The BIGGeST eVer eDuCATIon offerInG AT ConTInue To LeArn n
i
e
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e Committee r e G Anthony Stockwell, Sports Turf Assessor at Hadlow College,
Q d on greenkeeping apprenticeship reform and how golf club u re ality Assu employers’ and student greenkeepers’ needs are met
A former colleague once said to me “If you’re not progressing forwards, you’re going backwards”. He was referring to ongoing personal development in the workplace. Reflecting on this quote, it is indeed easy to apply this to either the individual, whatever that individual’s work situation may be, or to organisations and their response to the market, whatever that market may be. The definition of moving forward on the whole means participat- ing in Continuing Professional oVer 100 exhIBITorS froM ACroSS The InDuSTrY Development activities or growth within your job role with increased responsibilities. CPD is the foundation to assist with the development of the new Special thanks must go to Dr. Su this movement and elevating an standards. Hodgson, Darren Cuddihy, Jack individual’s career. There will be an improved oppor- Sims, Adrian Handbury, Richard I often think people are par- tunity for turf managers to be more Japes, James Bledge, John Ross ticipating in CPD without realising The GTC is funded by: involved and engaged in the learn- and Graeme Roberts. Hadlow Col- that they are doing so, even by read- ing process. This will strengthen lege has also had enquires for the ing this magazine’s educational and triangulate the learners’ 2015/16 winter so the future is section, you, as the reader are experience between the training looking bright too! participating in a form of CPD and provider, employer and apprentice. In the November edition of that should be encouraged. Hadlow College continues to Greenkeeper International, a list Applying this quote to the recent move forward and pave the way of conferences and speakers was work of the GTC and the Trailblazer for training greenkeepers and announced and we at Hadlow will movement, it is very positive to hear those within the turf industry. continue to work with BIGGA’s such positive moves forward in the This winter, in association with the Kent Section to ensure seminars current situation with changes to BIGGA Kent-section, Hadlow is and workshops are available on the qualifications. offering free evening classes. specialist subjects to compliment The new Levels 2, 3 and 4 stan- The seminars are being staged on the more formal courses, qualifica- dards that are being developed will four dates through the winter on a tions and apprenticeships offered take education and training to a range of current topics. Full details by the college. whole new level and ensure the of the dates and speakers can be My last pause for thought goes future of greenkeeping apprentice- found on the BIGGA and GTC back to the initial quote “If you’re ships is strengthened. websites under the events section. not progressing forwards, you’re These are very exciting times Hadlow has invited external going backwards”. I would encour- ahead for those within the green- Contact Details speakers who are specialists in age readers to reflect upon how you PLuS The Turf MAnAGerS ConferenCe, SPeCIAL GueSTS AnD More keeping industry, especially those their own particular field within can move forward at a steady and considering employing apprentices David F. Golding GTC Education Director our industry. There is an interest- accelerated pace if desired. or looking to invest in their staff. and Standards Director, ing range of greenkeeper speakers Many people wait for opportuni- The continued work of the GTC, Greenkeeper Training intertwined with other skilled non- ties to happen whilst others make working in collaboration with 01347 838640 greenkeeping members of the turf things happen through planning, BIGGA Turf MAnAGeMenT exhIBITIon BIGGA, England Golf and City [email protected] industry profession. identifying goals and acting upon and Guilds is great to hear and the GTC Aldwark Manor Without the commitment and plans. It’s a willingness to improve significance of the government’s BIGGA PRESENTS BTMe 2015 INCORPORATING CONTINUE TO LEARN Near Alne expertise of these individuals these that drives us forward. Business Innovation and Skills York YO61 1UF seminars would not be possible. I Sometimes people wait for oppor- AT THE HARROGATE INTERNATIONAL CENTRE accreditation is significant and will would like to extend my thanks and tunities to fall their way. However have a positive impact on the future www.the-gtc.co.uk ConTInue To LeArn 18-21 JANUARY 2015 www.greenkeepertraining.com gratitude to the guest speakers who some doors will open only if they of our industry. are supporting Hadlow and without are pushed. Turf MAnAGerS ConferenCe 19 JANUARY 2015 In terms of training apprentices, whom these seminars would not be Anthony.Stockwell@hadlow. the role of the golf course manager BTMe 20-22 JANUARY 2015 You can follow the GTC on possible. ac.uk , Tel: 01732 850551 is evolving and moving forward Twitter @TheOfficialGTC Visit btme.org.uk and click register now Visit btme.org.uk and click register now
68 GI JANUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd
BTME AD.indd 1 01/10/2014 17:46 BUNKER CONSTRUCTION DRAINAGE IDRRRAIGINAATIGONE TREE MOVING Tree Spade & To advertise contact Golf Course Drainage Telehandler Hire James Golf Course Drainage Specialist BUYERS’ GUIDE Survey / Design / Installation / Greens / Fairways / Bunkers / Complete Courses For fast and friendly UK To advertise contact James on 01347 833 832 on 01347 833 832 Plastic Pipe / Turfdry Drainage System service call: For fast and friendly Nationwide Service Melvyn Taylor or email [email protected] or email Contact Melvyn Taylor: 01283 551417 on 01283 551417 07836 259133 / [email protected] or 07836 259133 Categories... AERATION / AGRONOMY / ALL WEATHER SURFACES / ANTI SLIP / BUNKER / CONSTRUCTION / [email protected] www.turfdry.com www.turfdry.com CLOTHING FOOTWEAR / COMPACT TRACTORS / CONSTRUCTION / DRAINAGE / HEDGES/TREES / IRRIGATION / IRRIGATION CONSULTANTS / LAKE CONSTRUCTION LINERS / MACHINERY WANTED / RUBBER CRUMB / SOIL FOOD WEB / TOP DRESSING / TREE MOVING / TREE CLEARANCE / TURF USED MACHINERY / VERTIDRAINING / 01603 628251 WASTE / WASHWATER TREATMENT CONSTRUCTION www.benburgess.co.uk
Photo courtesy of Rudding Park Repton Short Course ‘Signature Island Green’. AGRONOMY TURF MACHINERY WANTED ARTIFICIAL GRASS The Tines Shop for Drainage experts good value, high quality Design & installation Invicta Groundcare Tines & Bedknives Primary pipe systems Sand slitting Equipment Ltd PATHWAYS Find a broad range of Tines Gravel banding and Bedknives online from We buy used golf Specialist Growers of As the winter weather is under way, non-sand filled options are available to The Grass Group preparations to ensure that courses suit different areas of the course. If fixed Tel. 0116 2696766 Call 01722 716361 Turf for Golf Courses Delivered to your door www.mjabbott.co.uk will be playable right through till Spring securely this will remain in place for years course machinery www.tines-shop.co.uk Rootzone Turf for Greens are getting underway. It is important to come. The installation is very similar to Grown on USGA rootzone, not to neglect pathways especially if that of natural turf. Tel: 01638 720123 Contact: Steve Dyne top-dressed throughout the year, money is tight. Artificial Grass is a cost FLAGS Tel No: 01474 874 120 and mown at 6mm. effective solution despite common 4. Low Maintenance Email: [email protected] Predominantly bent sward misconceptions. Once Artificial Grass has been installed Turf for Tees, Surrounds, Artificial grass could benefit your club, there is very little maintenance required. To advertise contact Approaches and Fairways Invicta4x1.indd 1 7/5/10 15:29:46 Various mixtures including bring in extra revenue and increase your Simply ensure that leaves are brushed ALL WEATHER SURFACES Golf construction experts TOP DRESSINGS ryegrass/fescue, 100% fescue, profits. off to prevent moss and keep the grass James and bent/fescue grown looking green. However, if left unattended Golf course construction on sandy loam topsoil. Remodelling & renovation 1. Muddy Paths Put Players off and moss should appear, it is easily on 01347 833 832 Bunker revetting turf Est. 1988 Grow in & maintenance FOR ALL YOUR BULK SUPPLIES A lot of work is carried out through the removed with various moss killers without 40mm thick Artificial surfaces NATIONWIDE DELIVERIES year to ensure that the course is in tiptop damaging the surface. You now have a or email Small or big roll All-Weather Surfaces For Your Golf Club 01858 464346 / 433003 Free loan of big roll condition. However, the golfer still has to mud free pathway all year round. Call 01722 716361 www.banksamenity.co.uk get both to the course and from one hole to * Pathways * Golf Mats www.mjabbott.co.uk laying frame * Tees * Fairway Mats [email protected] another. Cheap, quick fixes for these paths 5. Versatile & Hardwearing * Putting Greens * Accessories Tel: 01652 678 000 are often used. In the long run these aren’t A properly installed artificial grass Ensure the course is playable all year round www.tillersturf.co.uk cost effective and players are put off on pathway is substantial enough for the IRRIGATION many occasions. Would you want to walk golf course machinery to drive over - the M.Downes across a mud bath? same path can be used for tractors, Earthworks mowers, buggies, trolleys, golfers and the • Golf Course Construction Services 2. Cost Effective Solution greenkeeper. Not only does it withstand • Green and Tee Reconstruction irritech limited USED MACHINERY Artificial grass doesn’t cost as much this constant traffic but is also suitable for • Lakes and Reservoirs • Cart Paths Independent Irrigation Consultants as people presume. It’s a bit like buying playing from if a ball should land on the • Bunker Remodelling • Drainage Specialising in:-
a cheap car. It may cost less initially, path. Tel: 01254 831666 Fax: 01254 831066 • Lakes and Reservoirs ● Existing system evaluation Email: [email protected] ● www. but it is expensive to maintain and has 07753 856510 01829 781767 System design & upgrade to be replaced much sooner. If a a more 7. Sound Resistant www.verdesports.com [email protected] ● Project management usedturfmachinery.com expensive car had been purchased it would One of the benefits of artificial grass is have cost less over 20 years and would that it provides a surface, which is silent Contact Roger Davey on: have freed up time considerably, along and comfortable to walk on, allowing the 01823 690216 DRAINAGE www.irritechlimited.co.uk with a lot less stress. Artificial Grass may golfers to concentrate on their shot without PREMIER ALL-WEATHER SURFACES FOR GOLF GI_JULY13_BG_MDOWNES_4x1.indd 1 26/06/2013 13:23 appear expensive at the outset, but there the distraction of a noisy path. WASTE/WASHWATER is minimal maintenance required and it Traditional Pioneering the development and TREATMENT should last up to 20 years once installed. 8. Natural Appearance production of high quality sand-based products for over 150 years The green staff now have more time to The attractive green surface of the drainage and concentrate on the course. All in all giving artificial grass blends well in to the course Lytag banding long term cost benefits. surroundings. This enhances a wide variety of areas that look and feel like of greens and fairways 3. Easy Installation natural grass without the associated wear Huxley Practice Tee at St Andrews Links Irrigation experts Artificial Grass is easy to install and or maintenance problems. Top quality practice tees, golf course tees, putting Design & installation can be carried out by the green staff Taking all these points in to & pitching greens, pathways, patios, cart tracks Maintenance & support themselves. As long as a free draining base consideration your course would now and lawns professionally designed and installed. Online shop for spares Contact Sharon Morris on is in place the artificial grass can simply remain open all year round, which in Tel: 01962 733222 Water storage reservoirs 07932342044 or email Tel: 01785 812706 be laid directly over the compacted soil turn generates revenue and increases [email protected] E: [email protected] Call 01722 716361 [email protected] or stone sub-base. Both sand-filled and profitability. www.huxleygolf.com www.northstaffsirrigation.co.uk www.mjabbott.co.uk www.mansfield-sand.co.uk
HB_14_MANSFIELD SANDS_1.4.indd 1 21/10/2013 12:11 70 GI JANUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd JANUARY 2015 GI 71 Recruitment Recruitment U S A U S A Technical Sales Representative FAST TRACK TO THE FUTURE ! Competitive Salary plus vehicle TRAIN ON A TOP 100 GOLF COURSE IN THE USA ! Due to retirement DGM are looking for a highly motivated and BE PART OF THE CREW FOR A US PGA TOUR EVENT ! ambitious self-starter to take over an established customer base in Somerset and the Dorset Borders. IMPROVE YOUR LONG TERM CAREER PROSPECTS ! Advertise your GAIN VALUABLE EXPERIENCE & KNOWLEDGE FROM THE Main Responsibilities BEST SUPERINTENDENTS IN AMERICA ! • Manage our existing customers and promote our portfolio of turf recruitment here and ground care products and services. GUARANTEED TO GET YOU AHEAD OF THE • Actively seek new customers and opportunities to expand the COMPETITION business. REQUIREMENTS: ... and online for one month • Give technical support to our customers. Trouble shoot, minor CLEAN DRIVING / DRUG RECORD maintenance, training and carrying out demonstrations. MUST BE ENTHUSIASTIC AND MOTIVATED • Network with end users, institutes and trade associations. MUST HAVE AT LEAST NVQ 2 OR ONE YEAR OF FULL TIME TURFGRASS EDUCATION • Solid sales experience with ability to communicate technical information. Good mechanical knowledge, essential. PROGRAMS FROM 6 TO 18 MONTHS HELP WITH VISAS, TRAVEL PLANS AND INSURANCE • An understanding of the turf care and ground maintenance at www.bigga.org.uk/careers PLACEMENT AND ACCOMMODATION ARRANGED markets. Ideally some knowledge of turf science. AVERAGE WAGE $2,200.00 PER MONTH • The ability to communicate effectively at all levels. OPTIONAL ONLINE TURF CLASSES AVAILABLE from £595+vat for an 1/8 advert • Based in and with a geographical knowledge of the area. FOR MORE DETAILS CONTACT: • A clean, full UK driving licence. Mike O’Keeffe, The Ohio Program Telephone: 001-614-688-5653 Contact Jill Rodham on If you have the necessary skills, experience and enthusiasm please send your CV to: E-mail CV to: [email protected] www.ohioprogram.org/applynow/IA.php 01347 833 812 Email: [email protected] DGM, Kerswell Gardens, Newton Road, Torquay, TQ2 7HX
Would you like to join a sales team of an exciting, fast growing company? KAR UK Ltd, with Head office located in Manchester, are a leading irrigation equipment wholesaler. As part of our continued growth strategy we are looking for an additional Head Greenkeeper member to join our sales team and manage regions throughout the UK. Regions are yet to be decided. It will not be necessary to work out of Head office on a day to day basis Southwick Park Golf Club but a home/satellite locationnorth or Birmingham would be an advantage. Godfreys are John Deere’s leading Turfcare equipment specialist Godfreys are John Deere’s leading Turfcare equipment specialist Southwick Park is a private members club with a delightful 18 hole course set in Our primary drive is Horticultural, last year the company broadened its field into representing Kent, Sussex, Surrey, Berkshire and South London. representing Kent, Sussex, Surrey, Berkshire and South London. beautiful parkland surrounding Southwick Lake. Located close to Portsmouth, the Turf. KAR UK Ltd now supply & support a product range within the Golf, Sport and course has been established since 1977 and offers excellent practice facilities. We are Landscape market. This is an exciting opportunity to grow with a dynamic company, Due to the expansion of our sales team, we are looking for a meet new people, travel & develop yourself. Due to the expansion of our sales team, we are looking for a looking for a well-motivated Head Green Keeper to lead a small but experienced and highly motivated, dynamic individual with a proven record in sales. hard- working team. The position would suit a Deputy / Assistant Greenkeeper or an It is essential the successful applicant can present themselves professionally in a The successful candidate will be customer focused, organised, highly motivated, dynamic individual with a proven record in sales. existing Head Greenkeeper who is looking for new challenges. sales environment, be self-motivated, organised, provide good manners in all working ideally experienced in the use of CRM, word and excel software, The successful candidate will be customer focused, organised, The position requires the following skills and qualifications; conditions, have bounds of enthusiasm and not shy away from sales targets. with experience in selling or operating within the golf or land ideally experienced in the use of CRM, word and excel software, Experience within the Turf / Horticultural market would be an advantage, Irrigation with experience in selling or operating within the golf or land Essential knowledge would also be advantageous although training would be offered to the right management industries. candidate. A full UK driving license is essential. management industries. NVQ L3 in in sports turf management AREA SALES MANAGER PA1, PA2 & PA6 spraying licence Please send your application via email to Jimmy Sandison, [email protected] – GOLF & SPORTS TURF PRODUCTS Competent in the understanding and application of COSHH regulations SOUTHERN REGION SALES MANAGER Knowledge of routine machinery maintenance requirements To sell new and used turf equipment primarily into the golf and sports - COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS Have a sound knowledge of golf course irrigation systems turf markets along with associated service contracts to new and Head Greenkeeper Desirable Waltham Windmill Golf Club, Grimsby existing customers. To have the ability to use and demonstrate these Responsible for the delivery of the Kent & Sussex commercial products effectively. Preparation of quotes, understanding finance At least 8 years’ green keeping experience Waltham Windmill Golf Club is a parkland golf course with 5 lakes constructed in 1995 to sales business plan through the management of external area Chain saw qualified products and communicating to a pre-determined level are all USGA standards. Due to the retirement of our head green keeper we are looking to recruit sales representatives. Assisting in the structuring and delivery of IT literate with knowledge of MS Word/Excel an energetic and experienced Head Greenkeeper to continue the development of this preferred requirements. The successful candidate will have strong equipment proposals to clients. Ensuring that the sale process beautiful course. Applicants should be self-motivated, committed and hardworking as well people skills, be organised and have a basic level of IT competence. and CRM tool is used effectively. Operating a number of direct Behaviours as having the necessary experience and ability to lead a team in maintaining and raising Highly motivated and committed the standards. We have specific vacancies in Kent & Sussex but welcome applicants accounts within a sales territory. A proved track record in the Strong leadership qualities The candidate should have: A keen eye for presentation and attention to detail, Experience from within and around our trading territory. We offer a competitive successful management of people is required. Good interpersonal and communication skills of USGA greens, Qualified to NVQ3 or equivalent, Spraying certificates PA1, 2 & 6, A high salary and reward significantly on success. Full product and system Adaptable and flexible to the needs of the Club level of competence with modern greenkeeping machinery, Fully conversant with current training will be given together with a period of guaranteed commission Please visit our website www.godfreys.co.uk for a detailed job Health & Safety Regulations, Strong leadership and communication skills. Applications in writing with a full CV to; allowing for the successful candidate to be fully trained. description. Please apply in writing or email with full CV and covering letter stating why you would be a The General Manager, Southwick Park Golf Club, Pinsley Drive, Southwick, Nr suitable candidate and your salary expectations to The Secretary, Waltham Windmill Golf Please visit our website www.godfreys.co.uk for a detailed job description. Fareham, Hampshire, PO17 6EL Club, Cheapside, Waltham, Grimsby, DN37 0HT Applications should be made by emailing a CV & covering letter to Or email with CV attached to; [email protected] Applications should be made by emailing a CV & covering letter to By email to [email protected] [email protected] Closing date 31st January 2015 www.southwickparkgolfclub.co.uk [email protected] Closing date 31st January 2015 Closing date for applications 10th February 2015. Closing Date: 19th January 2015
72 GI JANUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd JANUARY 2015 GI 73 @BIGGALtd A new page featuring the best Tweets and pics from the industry – don’t forget to tag @BIGGALtd to give yourself a chance of being featured! 0%* Finance
Our favourite tweets 0+2 Annual this month... Payments 1st Payment @Glen37Chris March 2015 @BIGGALtd loving the turfgrass information file @Graeme_Roberts
@Graeme_Roberts1 It’s mornings like this that are what winters all about @BIGGALtd
@HighspeedGroup Come and see @HighspeedGroup @ #BTME @BIGGALtd in January 2015 to win our SPECIAL SPECIAL prize!!! #greenkeepers
@CaddingtonGolfC Fun supporting the @BIGGALtd MidAnglia section Xmas scramble - met some good industry pals! Back to tree planting!
@LAPUMagazine @ThePointHGK @avrogreenkeeper Good day @stenodocgolf for D&C @BIGGALtd Xmas bash always good to catch up with fellow greenkeepers. #toiletlock
@avrogreenkeeper Highlight of my career @the_iog awards @BIGGALtd greenkeeping Take Control of Premium Cut Quality achievement of the year. Thank you Our NEW generation of Fairway Mowers redefi ne cut quality @mgturfcare and combine it with uncompromising productivity. Take advantage @BIGGALtd north wales great day of our latest innovations like eHydro operation, TechControl at wallasey gc course in superb management and SpeedLink cutting unit adjustment. Achieve the condition thanks to @richie_stevo @CampeyTurfCare cut quality your course desires with the NEW A-Series. for hitting me on the elbow from 60yds!!! @CaddingtonGolfC @LAPUMagazine Story of the Day continues the countdown to @BIGGALtd BTME NEW 2015 #btme2015
@TurfProUK Also in the TP Briefing today the industry is counting down to @
BIGGALtd ‘s BTME in January OFFICIAL GOLF COURSE EQUIPMENT @BIGGAMidlands SUPPLIER Ok guys and girls who is coming to Harrogate with @BIGGALtd in January for BTME we could meet * The fi nance offer is available for Golf & Bowls clubs in the UK only. The offer includes all golf up for a debrief :) & turf equipment, commercial mowing, utility vehicles and JD attachments. Offer is available until 28th February 2015. Finance is limited to 60% of retail value. Rates/payments may vary to refl ect changes in tax and cost of funds. VAT where applicable. An administration fee will @jenky0 be charged. We may withdraw this offer at any time. Finance is subject to status. Terms and
conditions apply. For further information contact your local John Deere dealer. JohnDeere.com TS60070.1 ENG_GOLF14_LET14_PGA
74 GI JANUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd
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The Toro® greens package
for Perfect Greens Only Toro has the full package of turf equipment to make your greens look and play like the best.
THE GREENSMASTER eFLEX 2100 AND GREENSPRO 1240
When it comes to producing greens that everyone wants to play, Toro is just perfect. And now, with the fantastic new GreensPro 1240 dedicated greens roller, Toro is the only TORO manufacturer with the full greens’ maintenance equipment package. It means that, for every IRRIGATION job – from cutting, rolling and aerating to top dressing and spraying – there’s a quality Toro machine to help you produce the perfect green.
Full details at www.toro.com For a free onsite demonstration, call Lely on 01480 226800
GREENSMASTER GREENSMASTER PROCORE PROPASS MULTIPRO FLEX 21 TRIFLEX 648 200 5800
Lely. Your partners in turfcare. Call 01480 226800. Lely not only brings you Toro. Talk to us, too, about TYM compact tractors and Otterbine water management systems.
Toro Commercial Products are distributed by Lely (UK) Limited, St. Neots, Cambridgeshire PE19 1QH. Tel: 01480 226800 | Email: [email protected] | www.lelyturfcare.co.uk | www.toro.com