Around the Green Around the Green Finger, and Has Been Awarded an Incredible Achievement for Golf Club Who Is Part of the Team Follow As Usual

Around The Green Around The Green finger, and has been awarded an incredible achievement for Golf Club who is part of the team follow as usual. and commitment shown by our Other loyal supporters were Mid Anglia Kent winner of 2012’s photo comp Tom and on behalf of the section from Immingham that have won Pete Maybury. e-mail sponsors is greatly appreciated Bartram Mowers, Toro, Head- with the prize of a very nice bottle I would like to congratulate him. through to the National Finals of [email protected] phone and without them the golf days land, Aitkens, Scotts and Rigby of champers. If you wish to be In next month’s notes I will the annual Mail on Sunday golf 07756001187 also keep logged could not happen. Full results Taylor. Incidentally, if anyone in with a chance of a very nice be able to report on our AGM competition. They are now one into our section Facebook group can be viewed at www.bbo- brings prizes could you please tipple and indeed the prestige and the Autumn Competition at win away from a trip to Portugal. “North Wales B.I.G.G.A” greenkeepers.co.uk let Ian, or me know so that we of having your photo published Glen Gorse Golf Club and also Again best wished from the sec- The next Section golf day is can include you all in the notes. in our excellent calendar for my annual fortnight’s holiday tion to him too. the Christmas Turkey Trot. Thank you Royal Norwich for 2013, please send you entries which is long overdue. So until Looks like we could be clock- South East Dates, entry form, jobs and a super day. Hope it’s not 20 to, via email: rabforevergreen@ then I bid you farewell...... ing up some air miles this winter! Region information can be found on the years until the next time – I’ll Hope you are all well and Afternoon everyone and gmail.com , or preferable send Greg Skinner All the best for the onset of the BB&O website. only be 84! enjoying the dry weather we autumnal greetings. a disc to: Mr R. Beacham. 49 07970 095264 autumn. If anyone has any news, views Pause for thought:- are experiencing in September Now that summer is well and Eastwood Drive, Donnington, Steve Beverly, Immingham or ideas they would like to see for It may be comforting to now which is making a nice change, truly behind us and the suntan Telford, Shropshire, TF7 2LY. I Golf Club. the BB&O section then please that it’s not only greenkeep- allowing many to get their starts to fade work continues feel that our thanks must go to don’t hesitate to get in touch at ers that suffer the ‘committee greens renovations completed in earnest with our seasonal both the sponsors of our sec- [email protected] or con- syndrome’. Groundsmen get after a very difficult wet season. renovations and construction tion’s calendar, and of course tact the committee/Matt Nutter: it as well. A friend of mine was I hear that the fairways etc are programmes. our committee. Well done, yet [email protected] overruled on a job he was doing at last starting to slow down and That is if you can fit it in again gentlemen. Berks, Bucks & Oxon Alternatively keep up to date (they knew best)! have even seen signs of drought between leaf sweeping! The Hoff, totally random with what is happening in the Surprise, surprise – it went stress which never seemed likely The shifting daylight hours dude. East Of England Temple Golf Club played BB&O section by following us wrong and he got the blame for a few months ago. and consequent dark mornings host to this year’s BB&O Tacit on Twitter, Facebook and the it. I asked him how many were 2012 has been the wettest are a timely reminder of all the Our most recent golf day was North Wales Cup. The event was well sup- website. on the committee and he said summer in 100 years and mower headlights we promised held on August 2nd at Belton ported by the section with a The Stick “six”. I said that’s your problem 2nd wettest since records ourselves we would fix before the Woods. The day was kindly We are well and truly heading considerable number of trade mate, a committee should began. I am sure that you inevitable resultant extended sponsored by TORO with Nigel into autumn; I can already see representatives. With the talk of East Anglia always be an odd number and are all well ahead of the game putting surfaces. Lovatt and Chris Sellars once the leaves turning colour and the sustainability in the industry at three are too many! and have applied Fungicide to Our Summer Pairs Knockout again putting on an excellent addition of a backpack blower to the moment it was interesting to There was also a Bartrams help prevent the onslaught of competition is still going and day. Sandra and Tracey from the setting up tools also bears play and see first-hand a course Day at Eaton and about 50 souls Fusarium which will be rearing some great matches have been East Midland BIGGA were also in attendance, witness to the seasonal change. managed in such a way. turned up. Quite an eventful itself around the time of year… enjoyed by all entrants. See the Tracey joined in the golf compe- Talking of the oncoming season Conditions were blustery and day and we were all pleased to prevention is definitely better website for up to the minute So September has come tition while Sandra watched the the autumn tournament was windswept although it stayed hear that Danny Lake, Bartrams than cure so along with all the results. and gone with some very good Olympics…I mean assisted with played at St. Melyd GC on 11 dry! The long rough also meant equivalent to ‘Del Boy’ became a correct cultural measures a pre- Also, by the time you read weather bringing smiles to the the running of the day! September and the results are; scoring proved challenging. father the day before – well done ventative programme is really this we shall have played our faces of golfers and greenkeepers The results of the day were as 1st Kieran Graham and Paul Results: Keith May (The So, we all set foot on a golf mate. essential to keep your greens autumn event at Boughton Golf alike. Rearranged Golf Society follows Sandals 39pts; 2nd Charlie and Berkshire) 34 points; Mark course very few of us could In the next breath, we were disease and scar free for the rest Club so read results here next days, club invitations and the 1st Rob Welford Colin Jackson 37; 3rd Paul Rob- Green (The Berkshire) 33; Matt remember playing. Must be 20 remembering our dear friend of the season and beyond. month or on website if you can’t last of the season’s notable club 2nd Rob Bemment erts and Chris Stewart 36pts; Short (Sand Martin) 30; Phil years since we last played Royal Norman Fenwick who sadly I hope that you have all wait that long! competitions have now passed 3rd Ben Lowery nearest the pin Andy Darlly. Beeny (JSM) 29 and Richard Norwich Golf Club and what a passed away the week before. We received your application forms The football season is in full and our focus is on autumn Trade Ian Collett Only 24 played which was such a Fortmuller fifth also with 29 on treat it was. The course was in shall miss him a lot – a true gent from Gerald for the Autumn Golf flow again and my spare time renovation work in preparation Nearest Pin Roy Brittan shame as an immaculate course countback. top condition thanks to Mark and a first class greenkeeper. Day and AGM at Verulam GC on is occupied totally by running for the end of BST, the onset Longest Drive Rob Bem- with good weather and an excel- Simon Mallock won nearest Dingell and his team. The cater- He would always have a laugh October 25th. If you haven’t and my three kids to their matches of frosts and the leaf collecting ment lent meal thanks to St. Melyd for the pin with a thundering tee ing team also played their part, – sometimes a translator would would like to enter please email all over the south east putting season. As a nation we do have a The course was presented in the hospitality they showed us shot on the 8thand Graham as did the weather for a change. have been handy (that’s rich me for a copy of the application my ever-elusive low-teens golf reputation for talking about the excellent condition by Angus big thank you to Eifion Ellis and Down smashed his tee shot The main sponsors of the day coming from me, but you know form. Once again the entry fee is handicap out of reach for yet weather but this year has been and his staff and the hospitality Jacob for the excellent condition on the 12th to take the longest were Ben Burgess. Unfortu- what I mean!) only £15, exceptional value for another year. I wouldn’t have it so exceptional that absolutely in the clubhouse afterwards was of the course. drive. The guys from the Berk- nately, the halfway house went I’m sure his skills would money, so hope to see as many of any other way though. You can’t everyone has been banging on excellent. Please note Christmas tour- shire produced a strong show- missing but it didn’t spoil our have been passed on to the you there as possible as it’s sure beat seeing the honest passion about it. Once again thanks to every- nament is on 21st November ing on the day taking four of the day! The prizes were presented youngsters at Purdis and they to be a great day. So come on kids put into their football week Our annual Par 3 competition one at Belton Woods and TORO at Oswestry golf club not the top seven places. It was nearly by Stewart Edge (from Ben will remember them, and him, dust down the sticks and join us. in week out. sponsored by Rigby Taylor was for an excellent day. 7th December as posted on a clean sweep with the longest Burgess) to the following des- forever. Our thoughts and con- I would like to make you all Don’t forget our annual held at Nailcote Hall and won by Many congratulations from our fixture cards. Northern walk prize going to apprentice peradoes. dolences are with his family at aware of an amazingly loyal shindig/Turkey Trot/AGM at ‘Team Committee’,,,hmmmm. the section are due to Angus region seminar will be held on Anthony Myles! 1 – 10 Handicap: 1 Michael this sad time. servant to greenkeeping and the pristine fairways of Redlib- As a section we are very grateful MacLeod as he has now actually November 7th all details will be Johnny Beck of Sherriff Ame- Buck 40 points; 2 Richard I was going to give the scores Mid Anglia Section - Mr Peter bits on the 29th November. I to Carl Chamberlain for organis- left the section to take up the available soon. nity provided some much wel- Plummer 34 (on countback from for the Bartrams Day, but it just Robinson Head Greenkeeper at know that’s a few weeks off yet ing this event and putting in the prestigious role of Course Man- In other news Garry Hugget comed refreshments at the 13th his dad – and he also pipped seems a bit irrelevant, except to Knebworth GC. He’s reached an but please make a note in your time and effort to set it up and ager at The Belfry. When he said has moved from selling Textron Hole assisted by the Midlands Roger for nearest the pin on the say it was a good day and we all amazing milestone in achieving diaries for what, in my opinion, offer a very generous prize table. at the end of our day at Belton at John Osman groundscare to new Regional Administrator 9th. What a ride home that must raised a glass for the man who an unbelievable 50 years of is the highlight of the year. With this in mind it is such a Woods that he looked forward still selling Textron at Burrows Sandra Raper who has replaced have been!) was missing. greenkeeping service to the club Please call me if you have any shame that it was again poorly to welcoming us all again we will groundscare with a new stomp- Peter Larter. 11 – 19 Handicap: 1 Andy after starting out as a 15-year- news for this column, including supported by the greenkeepers now certainly be holding him to ing ground around the North Congratulations to Keith and Baker 36; 2 John Andrews 33 Mick Lathrope oldi n 1962. This is a feat that I any personal achievements or of the section. This did include the offer! West area. He has also been Mark who go forward and will 20 – 28 Handicap: 1 Ian ‘The doubt will ever be repeated and news from your clubs. me admittedly, but the numbers Congratulations this month chosen to play for the Welsh represent the Section at Irvine Maestro’ Willett 38; 2 Steve can announce that as he loves Don’t forget to call me if you for events are rapidly dwindling, also go to Rob Welford of Cleet- senior, that’s two consecutive Golf Club in the BIGGA National Freestone his job so much has taken the need any additional help over although I am hoping that work- horpes Golf Club. He has won years an accomplishment of Championships. Trade & Guest: 1 Graham option to stay on for another the winter with any of your loads will afford people the time a place in the World Finals of which I know he is exceedingly Our thanks must go to all the Kemp 2 T Mills three years. Well Done Peter you projects. Again, see website for to attend more events next year. the Audi Quattro Cup in South proud. staff at Temple who did a fan- Nearest The Pin: 1st Reg Section are a credit to the industry. details of services on offer. As I’m sure you will have read Africa in December this year. All I think that’s about enough for tastic job of catering and looking Claydon; 9th Richard Plummer Notes Lastly please let me know Best of British in GI, one of our East Midland the best wishes from the section now or I’ll have nothing to write after everyone on the day and (still raking bunkers); 12th Mick of any news worthy or events Rob Holland Please email your notes to members Tom Flavelle won the in your endeavours out there. about next month, although I to Tacit for their continued Pryke steve.castle at your clubs so we can help Premier Golf very prestigious Toro Student Congratulations also go to do keep hoping to hear from you support and association with Longest Drive: 18th Graham @bigga.co.uk spread the word. Darren. 07545 424880 by the 15th of The Year competition. This is Rob Bemment of Immingham about your news, contact details the BB&O section. The support Hurran of the month [email protected]

50 GI OCTOBER 2012 OCTOBER 2012 GI 51 DewT_Layout 1 19/09/2012 16:03 Page 2

Around The Green Sussex Surrey watch us win gold in the dres- Devon and Cornwall sage competition unbelievable! BIGGA welcomes There wasn’t a dry eye left in the the following new Assistant house when our British hero members… Jonny Peacock beat his sport- Profile ing hero Oscar Pistorius in the Scotland 100m Paralympic final. John Marshall, West Section Our monthly look into the life Back to greenkeeping the Andrew McDonald, West Section of an assistant greenkeeper... last eight weeks for us have The Summer Tournament Monday September 17. I We now have all dates and Northern Region followed exactly what we’ve was recently held at Pyecombe have not been recently to the had all year. No consistent tem- venues confirmed for this Jamie Baggley, North West Section Jack Butterworth, North West Section Golf Club, but unfortunately Isle of Wight but have used perature, multi weather fronts upcoming season of events. Aaron De’Avalon, North Wales Section it was once again poorly the time in not going to finish All events will be advertised on Gwyndaf Lewis, North Wales Section coming through - how can Christopher Pinkney, Northern Section attended. The results were… building my home made any of us plan end of season the BIGGA website and in the Stephen Smith, North East Section well, well, well: wooden gazebo. The builders GI magazine. Fixture lists will renovations and preparations Midland Region 1st place - Dave Allen, Rich are in making lots of dust for all our finals events! When be sent out to all members. If Evans, Pete Smith converting our separate WC times like these come around ie you have not received one, then Kristian Allen, Midland Section 2nd place - Matt Hutchinson, into an en suite shower room please contact me. Stephen Ball, Midland Section tighter budgets and not being Tom Coulson, Midland Section Chris Ahier, D Burchell for our second bedroom and able to prepare our courses the Please make sure that all Nigel Green, Berks/Bucks & Oxon Section William Green, Berks/Bucks & Oxon 3rd place – Nigel Everett, Pete also refitting our bathroom. All way we know how, we all need your contact details are up to Section Crossley, Mel Ward donations to the make Brian’s date with BIGGA HQ, this year Adam Hallifax, Midland Section to stick together. Don’t be afraid Liam Harris, Mid Anglia Section The longest drive went to Dorking property liveable will to pick up the phone and call we plan to reduce our costs by Sharon Morris, East Midland Section John Cole from John Shaw be very gratefully received. The only emailing details of events James Percy, Berks/Bucks & Oxon your neighbouring golf club Section Machinery. It was the only front garden now needs some ask to borrow bits and pieces, to our members. If you are not Jamie Wright, Berks/Bucks & Oxon Name: Anthony Stockwell Section fairway John found. Nearest turf so I hereby apologise to and pick each others brains receiving invites to our events, Age: 24 the pin was won by Dave Hinks any local club that loses a small because between us we can then please contact BIGGA with South East Region Club: The London Golf Club and the longest drive on the 9th part of one of their greens, my prevail. up to date contact details. Position: Assistant Tom Emmence, Sussex Section to Larry Lamb Pearman. Well gardener has only recently Team Match results Our first meeting is at East Paul Fagg, Kent Section Greenkeeper done everyone! Many, many been released on probation. North Wales 3 South Wales Devon GC on Thursday 11 Oliver Hook, Kent Section Nickname: Stocky Ivor Isted, Surrey Section thanks to Mark Day from Tacit That is it for this month for October. Paul Newcombe, Carl McCreath, East Anglia Section Dew-T calls! 1 - thank you to sponsors who were our sponsors for the no-one out there in green- Countrywide and Farmura Course Manager, has made Craig Peterson, Surrey Section 1. How long have you been Alasdair Spence, Kent Section day. Once again Mark provided keeper land has contacted Environmental. some significant changes to the greenkeeping? 5 years brilliant prizes. Our thanks me with any news but in next South Wales 4 South West course in the last few years and South West/South Wales also go to Pyecombe Golf Club month’s edition there will 2 - again thank you sponsors has agreed to do a short presen- Region 2. What was it about the for their wonderful hospitality be a full report on the match Countrywide and Farmura tation to the attendees explain- career that attracted you? I Ian Barnett, South Wales Section and great food. between Surrey, Essex and Environmental. ing why these changes have Philip Bowler, South Coast Section love golf and anything practical Jon Funnell, Devon & Cornwall Section The next event will take place Sussex at Lingfield Park GC Thanks also to all patrons been made. Paul will be leading Phill Hughes, Surrey Section in nature on Thursday, 11th October and Surrey greenkeepers v the a Course walk for those who Daniel Partridge, South Coast Section of the section, without your Adam Rogers, Surrey Section at Crowborough Beacon Golf Reps at Richmond GC. support prizes and events like are not playing golf. Golfers will Joseph Sexton, Surrey Section Turf grass managers have 3. If you weren’t a Club with tee times starting at Please do not hesitate to con- these couldn’t take place thank be playing for the “Don Hunt” Stephen Springthorpe, South West little or no control over the greenkeeper what do you Section 11:50. The cost will be £19 per tact me for any advice or news you. Trophy and Avoncrop Amenity Tim Vines, Surrey Section conditions that cause dew. think you’d be? Teacher head. All enquiries should be as my Tacit mobile phone no and Sibelco will be sponsoring Sean Welch, South Coast Section Our Next Event Adam Young, South West Section However, the application of Dew-T during times when dew sent to Competition Secretary, continues to be 07879474038 October 11th at Clyne Golf the Event. Our Section AGM will 4. Which task do you most formation is expected will provide excellent prevention. Pete Smith at pds@btinternet. or by email brian.willmott@ Club AGM starts at 11am fol- be held at the end of the day’s For more information on enjoy doing and why? Hand com. I would personally like to hotmail.co.uk lowed by golf at 1pm. Please events. This will be a very inter- new members log in to Dew-T has a twin mode of action. First, it is effective in watering to try and create as welcome Pete to our section. I Brian Willmott guys book this time in your esting and enjoyable meeting at the Members’ Area of the reducing water tension, thus preventing dew formation and consistent surface as possible BIGGA Website. know he will bring some great calendars and try and support one of our best courses in the secondly, it bonds strongly to the waxy leaf surface allowing ideas from his previous section the AGM to air your views and Section. Please contact me asap 5. Which task do you least South West & moisture to run off. where he was Chairman and support section golf event. if you wish to attend. enjoy doing and why? Hand Treasurer. Wales Region October 26th St Pierre Golf Our November event will be watering with soggy boots! Our AGM will be held at the held at Bowood GC, Cornwall, Club our inaugural South Untreated Dyke Golf Club on Thursday, Wales Dinner and Dance will on Wed 7th November. Rob 6. What one thing - other than South Wales 29th November. A nine hole take place. Many tables have Cook, Course Manager, is a a pay rise - would improve the competition has been organ- been taken by patrons and regular attender at our meetings greenkeepers’ lot? Further ised with tee times from 12 other sections - if you would and has worked hard to improve Treated improvement in training and noon and the AGM commenc- like a table please contact the surfaces at Bowood. Golfers with Dew-T education for all ing at 2:30pm. Rob Hudson Gareth Knight 07595988512 will be playing for the “Bayer has arranged both the golf and to reserve your place. Cup” and the day will be spon- 7. Hobbies? Spending time with Independent Trials 2011 a buffet tea at no charge to our Many thanks for reading any sored by Bayer Environmental my family and 2 dogs G members. news or views please contact and Sports Metals. Again, please Applying Dew-T Prevents dew formation for up to 14 days I would once again ask all Good morning all, firstly me at any time. contact me asap to secure a G Allows mowing operations to begin earlier 8. Favourite Band? Supergrass in the Sussex Section to drop apologies for missing last Kind Regards place at the event. G Provides a cleaner leaf cut me line, ring me or email me month’s deadline not to be Look forward to seeing you all Peter H G 9. Which team do you support with any news of interest to the missed again! How fantastic at our events! Assists in cultural disease management (football or otherwise)? My section. Let’s hear your news! and inspirational has the George Pitts G Replaces costly, time-consuming switching hometown Woking FC Cheers for now, last eight weeks been with Section Section Secretary Eric Green the Olympic and Paralympic Bigga Devon & Cornwall 10. What is your claim to Beauport Park Golf Club games. I have never seen so Notes 07929 754401 G fame? I beat Monty in a recent 01424-214600 many people enthusiastic Please email your notes to [email protected] steve.castle Dew T putting challenge 07805-024001 and uplifted by some many @bigga.co.uk DEW CONTROL [email protected] sports. For me being a grown by the 15th of the month man jumping out of my seat Freefone: 0800 424 919 Web: www.rigbytaylor.com eMail: [email protected]

52 GI OCTOBER 2012 DewT_Layout 1 19/09/2012 16:03 Page 2

52 GI OCTOBER 2012 Diary of Events BTMEfor its 24th year, at the Harrogate Internationalis Centre,back 22-24 January 2013 Details of your Section’s forthcoming events in 2012 can be found here...

Date Event Venue Contact

OCTOBER

October 11th Midland Region – Greetham Valley Golf Sandra Raper Tel: 07866 366966 or Email: Whitemoss Inter-Section Club [email protected] Golf Day October 11th Devon & Cornwall Section East Devon Golf Club George Pitts Tel: 07929 754401 or Email: gpitts. Don Hunt Trophy & AGM [email protected] October 16th East Anglia Golf Day Ely City Golf Club Ian Willett Tel: 07929 205398 or Email: info@ biggaeastanglia.co.uk October 17th Northern Region Bingley St Ives Golf Sandra Raper Tel: 07866 366966 or Email: Whitemoss Inter-Section Club [email protected] Golf Day October 18th BIGGA & GCMA Chipping Sodbury Golf Karen Drake, Weston super Mare Golf Club, Email: Educational Seminar Club [email protected] October 18th Midland Section Event Druids Heath Golf Club Andrew Smith Email: andysmithace@hotmail. co.uk incorporating: October 23rd East of Scotland NPTC Murrayfield Golf Club Stuart Ferguson Tel: 07961 630553 or Email: Update Edinburgh [email protected] October 25th Mid Anglia Section Golf Verulam Golf Club Richard Saunders Tel: 07773 206553 Day and AGM The NOVEMBER BIGGA November 6th Midland Regional Forest Hill Golf Club, Sandra Raper Tel: 07866 366966 or Email: 20-23 January 2013 Conference Leicester [email protected] November 7th Devon & Cornwall Section Bowood Golf & Country George Pitts Tel: 07929 754401 or Email: gpitts. Turf Management BIGGA Seminars Event Bayer Cup Club [email protected] & Workshops November 7th Northern Regional Phoenix Sports Club, Sandra Raper Tel: 07866 366966 or Email: Conference Rotherham [email protected] November 12th STRI Regional Training – Moor Allerton Golf Club Rachael Godfrey Tel: 01274 565131 or Email: Pests, Weeds & Diseases [email protected] November 12th STRI Regional Training Best Western Gleddoch Rachael Godfrey Tel: 01274 565131 or Email: – Technical Turf Manage- House Hotel & Golf [email protected] Exhibition ment – Part 1 Spa – West Scotland w Over 150 exhibitors showcasing the latest products November 13th STRI Regional Training Moor Allerton Golf Club Rachael Godfrey Tel: 01274 565131 or Email: 12 w -20 – Technical Turf Manage- [email protected] Network with over 7000 sports and turf professionals 87 19 ment – Part 1 w The annual must-attend event for golf greenkeepers November 13th STRI Regional Training Castleknock Hotel & Rachael Godfrey Tel: 01274 565131 or Email: – Technical Turf Manage- Country Club [email protected] ment – Part 1 November 14th South East Regional Thorpeness Golf & Ian Willet Tel: 07929 205398 or Email: info@ Free Entry Conference Country Club biggaeastanglia.co.uk November 15th South West & South Wales Oaktree Arena, Jane Jones Tel: 01454 270850 or Mobile 07841 TO BTME 2013 Regional Conference Highbridge, Somerset 948110 or Email: [email protected] and a simple ONLINE November 15th Midland Region TEAM Burton on Trent Golf Sandra Raper Tel: 07866 366966 or Email: registration process CHALLENGE Club [email protected] - FROM September 2012 November 15th North West Section Event Wilmslow Golf Club Chris Sheehan at Email: jsheehan@blueyonder. www.btme.org.uk co.uk

OCTOBER 2012 GI 55 Diary of Events BTMEfor its 24th year, at the Harrogate Internationalis Centre,back 22-24 January 2013 Details of your Section’s forthcoming events in 2012 can be found here...

Date Event Venue Contact

OCTOBER

OCTOBER 2012 GI 55 s Trainin er g p C e o Greenkeepers e m

k m

e t

e r Training Committee e

G intheshed

David Golding, GTC Education Director, Q d Our monthly puzzle page to keep you u re with a monthly update ality Assu entertained when you take a break...

This month David Golding, GTC’s Education Director, updates CROSSWORD QUICK ‘NINE HOLE’ QUIZ readers on his work within the European Greenkeeping 1) Where was the first Ryder Cup most European teams in the Ryder Education Unit (EGEU) and why the British greenkeeper training held? Cup? structure seems to be now attractive to 2) Which European has played in 7) Whose image is featured on the more countries… at least five Ryder Cups without top of the Ryder Cup trophy? losing a singles match? 8) Ben Crenshaw snapped his Whilst Britain has battled industry for the industry RIGHT: The 1987 issue of 3) Who is the youngest ever Ryder putter in half during a match at the for many years to have a In maintaining the National Greenkeeper featured BIGGA’s first ever educational event Cup player? 1987 Ryder Cup. Which two clubs Government and employer Occupational Standards (NOS), did he use to putt with afterwards? recognised greenkeeping the GTC has an advisory panel with 4) Name the only two-time major specific education and representatives from BIGGA and winner in the last 50 years to have 9) Who has served as a Ryder Cup training structure, we must the Quality Assured Centres and never played in the Ryder Cup. captain the most times? never be complacent, even Training Providers though ‘our’ system is now The NOS ranges from the basic 5) How many majors had Jack much sought after especially tasks an apprentice would learn on Nicklaus won before he played in Quiz compiled by Steve Castle – in golf developing countries their first day of employment to the his first Ryder Cup? drop him a line on steve.castle@ The message therefore is that knowledge and skills a competent the per-capita levy introduced bigga.co.uk and let him know how employers and greenkeepers must manager should possess The GTC is funded by: 25 years on, greenkeeper train- 6) Which player has featured in the you got on! continue to work in harmony to The NOS can be viewed on the ing in Britain still benefits from maintain standards for greenkeep- GTC website and it is from the NOS funding to the GTC by means of ers that certificates, qualifications and annual grants from the three Brit- MONSTER That is why the GTC, through the workshops can be developed ish Home Unions, the PGA, the PGA SUDOKU Home Unions and BIGGA, are an It is this British model that, in my European Tour, BIGGA, special Across 2 Management tactic of Fill in the grid so ideal model for other countries to role as Standards Director for the projects with The R&A and income 1 Globular underground barring employees from the that every row, every consider European Greenkeeping Educa- from the Quality Assured Centres plant stem (4) workplace until terms are column and every It is now nearly 20 years since tion Unit, I am promoting to other and Training Providers 3 Book used by a agreed (7) 4x4 box contains the I ‘left’ BIGGA to front the GTC countries looking for advice and In recent years, we have seen philatelist (5,5) 4 Waterproofed canvas (9) numbers 0 to 9 and although many have questioned guidance new organisations established to 10 Become liable to (5) 5 African people of Kenya the letters A to E. the reasons for two separate organ- I guess, after many years in the represent the Golf Course Owners 11 Other name of Haile and Tanzania (5) isations, BIGGA and the GTC sector, I shouldn’t be surprised to and they too, are very important, as Selassie (3,6) 6 Presenter of Gardeners’ A brief reminder is that, whilst learn that, in many countries, the the percentage of proprietary clubs 12 Presenter of Gardeners’ World following the death of BIGGA admirably represents employer representative bodies are has increased in Britain World from 1979 until his 11a (4,10) greenkeepers, it is the Home nowhere to be seen, leaving any The GTC and the EGEU will death in 1996 (5,8) 7 Unconventional youth of Unions who represent the golfers greenkeeper training to the Green- engage with all organisations that 14 In full, WC (5,6) the 1950s (7) and golf clubs - the employers keeping Association, if there is one! have a stake in the standards of 16 Fast food chain founded 8 Surname of comedy In the main, the Home Unions It has to be said that there is still greenkeeper training by Colonel Harland Sanders writer who had a long-stand- have traditionally only represented the same commitment from the The education and training (3) ing performing partnership the private members clubs but, as greenkeepers in many countries to options for both golf club employers 17 Floor mat with deep pile with Denis Norden (4) Golf Course Owners Associations improve the standards of education and greenkeepers in Britain range (3) 9 First and most SUDOKU have been established to represent and training from work-based to residential, 19 US general-interest successful single from the Fill in the grid so the proprietary clubs, the Unions However, sadly, I have to report online, seminars, workshops, publisher, quoted as the 10cc album How Dare You! that every row, every have become very much aware of that it is a picture all too familiar and conferences, together with world’s largest (6,5) (3,3,4,4) column and every 9 the need to ensure that all employ- with the pre-BIGGA days and the tremendous support from those 21 Planned murder of, 13 Children’s quiz show box shape contains ers are represented when it comes restructured GTC in 1993 Contact Details companies with specialist staff, all especially, a public figure (13) hosted by Michael Rodd (6,4) the numbers 1 to 9. to such matters as greenkeeper Prior to the golfer per-capita committed to quality standards 24 Issuing forth (from) (9) 15 Making an appearance; training levy of 2p, introduced by the UK David Golding The outcome is that we are now in 25 Brand of fine English embarrassing (7,2) Here in the UK, in order to achieve Home Unions and matched by The GTC Education Director a position to help our colleagues in porcelain and bone china (5) 18 Ford car whose Government recognition and, with R&A in 1987, it was through the 01347 838640 [email protected] the world of greenkeeping and also 26 French island territory of third-generation model was it, any funding support for training, efforts of many volunteers working learn from those countries where the West Indies (10) re-badged Scorpio (7) the industry has to show employer tirelessly in the days of the BGGA, GTC Aldwark Manor there is a structure that works well 27 Destructive disease of 20 Type of clothing which support SIGGA and EIGGA that thankfully, Near York Regrettably, these are very few cereal grasses (4) is part of the NATO phonetic Puzzle The GTC has certainly punched BIGGA, with professional adminis- YO61 1UF but we must be willing to share best alphabet (7) Answers its weight in meetings to ensure tration, really came to the fore www.the-gtc.co.uk practice and the GTC and EGEU Down 22 Town of NW Ireland, on greenkeeping has an education, Indeed, 1987 was a momentous will be doing just that at every 1 (Fitting of a) false tooth birthplace of W B Yeats (5) page 65 training and qualification structure turning point for greenkeeper You can follow the GTC on opportunity anchored to adjacent teeth 23 Large mass of floating ice training BIGGA was formed and developed and maintained by the Twitter @TheOfficialGTC (10) (4)

56 GI OCTOBER 2012 OCTOBER 2012 GI 57 s Trainin er g p C e o Greenkeepers e m

k m

e t

e r Training Committee e

G intheshed

David Golding, GTC Education Director, Q d Our monthly puzzle page to keep you u re with a monthly update ality Assu entertained when you take a break...

56 GI OCTOBER 2012 OCTOBER 2012 GI 57 BACK IN TIME Do you have any old artifacts from days gone-by?

Perhaps your grandad was a greenkeeper and keeper – and in 2007 the victor was has something stored away in the loft? Maybe Avon Bridges. an Association tie, or a journal? If so we would Above all, the long-term success love to hear from you. We are particularly of many of the winners proves that interested in the early part of the last century, all the finalists have a bright future but anything you have would be worth in greenkeeping. considering for future editions of this article. Please contact us on 01347 833800 or email DAVID NORTON’S STORY Elliott Small, BIGGA Past Chairman, Just three years after winning [email protected] Toro Student Greenkeeper the 1990 Student Greenkeeper of the Year title, David Norton (main right) was Head Greenkeeper at The Belfry. of the Year Special1987 This graphically demonstrates the impact the competition can INSET ABOVE: 1992’s winner Barry Rhodes have on a fledgling career. looks back at cuttings of greenkeeping news from days gone-by. 2012 is a landmark year, He was a 21-year-old assistant Back in time greenkeeper at Beverley & East being the centenary of Greenkeeping Associations, as well as 25 years since BIGGA was formed. Riding Golf Club when he clinched This month, in another Special Feature, we take a look back at over two decades of the Toro Student the title, and the following January he headed to the Winter School for Greenkeeper of the Year Award – and speak to one of the very first winners who explains how his Turfgrass Managers course at the victory gave his fledgling career a huge boost University of Massachusetts. 1989 saw the opening Over two decades on David can broadcast from little-known still recall the details of the “fantas- satellite TV station Sky, the tic” trip stateside – and describes Church of England vote to how it played a huge role in both his allow female ministers to personal and professional develop- be ordained and Nick Faldo ment. become the first ever English He said: “Firstly I was flattered to winner of the Masters. be nominated, then on the day of The last year of the eighties also the final I made sure I was honest. I saw the first winner crowned of the think it’s tempting to say what you Toro Student Greenkeeper of the think the interviewers want to hear, Year – a delighted Mark Proctor. but I didn’t do that. I tried to give The accompanying piece in the logical answers. November edition of ‘Greenkeeping “I was delighted to win it, and Management’ – as this magazine the trip to America was fantastic was then known – described how in every way. The educational side Mark would partake in the ‘Winter was terrific, and the social side to his home town of Beverley, School for Turf Grass Managers’ at was too. I was only 21, it was my the University of Massachusetts. where he is still Head Greenkeeper first trip to America, and I learnt so today. He’s also Group Golf Course The article added that Mark was much. It stood me in good stead looking forward to his first plane Manager for Q Hotels who have four professionally and personally. It courses across the UK – including journey, and also tucking into an genuinely helped me develop as a American ‘whopper’! the course at Aldwark Manor. young adult. Finalists are still asked to produce 1992 winner Barry Rhodes was “It also gave my career a big boost. pictured on the front cover with a report on a specific aspect of this I was offered a job at Mid Yorkshire course as they were in 1990. the winner’s shield – and the first Golf Club in Pontefract off the back winner this century was Jonathan David has plenty of sound advice of it, which I accepted, and I then for young greenkeepers at the Cleland, now Course Manager at applied for a job at Gleneagles. Elderslie Golf Club. beginning of their careers. “Technically, I didn’t have “Being able to see things logically Celebrating in 2005 was Alan enough years of experience to go Pierce – who is now a Master Green- from both a golfer’s perspective for that job but they considered me and a greenkeeper’s perspective is because they saw I had Student vital. So play golf! It doesn’t matter Greenkeeper of the Year on my CV. whether you’re good or bad, it They had around 500 applicants increases your appreciation of and I got down to the last two but courses. just lost out. “Look at as many different “However, getting that close to courses as possible and think a job at such a prestigious course about what’s good and what’s bad. helped my confidence massively That ensures you can avoid the bad and I soon got the job at The Belfry. and try and implement the good “Also, don’t be despondent if you on your course. You also have to get to the final and don’t win. A remember every golf course is dif- nomination still does wonders ferent – what works on one may not for your CV and I know many of work on another. the finalists have gone on to have “The biggest thing is don’t be superb careers.” afraid to ask questions. Get as In 1995 David moved to Forest much knowledge as you can and Pines Hotel and Golf Resort close use this to your advantage.”

58 GI OCTOBER 2012 OCTOBER 2012 GI 59 BACK IN TIME Do you have any old artifacts from days gone-by?

58 GI OCTOBER 2012 OCTOBER 2012 GI 59 BUYERS’ GUIDE

IRRIGATION Buyers guide ALL WEATHER SURFACES CONSTRUCTION DRAINAGE FIRST AID

categories  The TAS TRIMMER Look at the latest... SPRINKLER HEAD MAINTENANCE  Second Hand Machinery AND SAFETY MADE EASY • AERATION from £23 +VAT ...for sale • ALL WEATHER SURFACES  All popular  www.bigga.org.uk/classifieds • ARTIFICIAL GRASS   sprinkler,    valve box • ANTI SLIP    & marker • BUNKER CONSTRUCTION  GOLF COURSE SPECIALISTS www.jsmd.co.uk sizes tel. 0845 026 0064 • CLOTHING/FOOTWEAR   GOLF COURSE CONSTRUCTION • COMPACT TRACTORS REMODELLING & RENOVATION • CONSTRUCTION GROW IN & MAINTENANCE • DRAINAGE SPORTSGROUND CONSTRUCTION • FINANCE & LEASING Tel. 01722 716361 • FLAGS www.mjabbott.co.uk ADVERTISE HERE  • HEDGES/TREES  from as little as £250  • IRRIGATION  GOLF COURSE  DESIGN : INSTALLATION : MAINTENANCE for a FULL 6 MONTHS, • IRRIGATION CONSULTANTS DRAINAGE Pitch Construction : Piped Drainage Systems : Sand Slitting MACHINERY Blec VibroPitch Sand Ba Constructionnding : Koro Surf a:c iPipedng : Vertid Drainageraining : Top dSystemsressing : Overseeding • LAKE CONSTRUCTION Sand Slitting : Blec Vibro Sand Banding : Landscaping full colour, please call Stourton Forestry Koro Surfacing : Vertidraining : Topdressing : Overseeding If it’s drainage, it has to be Duncan Ross! LINERS If it’s drainage, it has to be Duncan Ross! Jill on 01347 833 832 or BUNKER CONSTRUCTION Coring without the mess! • MACHINERY FOR SALE Willow Farm, email Traditional Red Cat Lane, Burscough, Ormskirk L40 0RF Stourton Forestry is a small, friendly company • MACHINERY WANTED Applety Bri01257dge, Wigan, 255321Lancashire WN6 9DT THINK t 01257 255321 f 01257 255327 e [email protected] [email protected] and e ofﬁ[email protected] based in central Lincolnshire. We work throughout • RUBBER CRUMB drainage www.duncanrosslanddrainage.co.uk the East Midlands and often travel further afield. • SOIL FOOD WEB Lytag banding We have many years of experience working on • TOP DRESSING prestigious courses throughout the country and • TREE MOVING of greens and fairways Scan irritech limited here for can help you with all aspects of tree and woodland Independent Irrigation Consultants management. • TREE CLEARANCE Golf Coursethe solution Drainage Golf Course Drainage or call us on We specialise in tree planting schemes and offer a • TURF RENOVATION Specialist Specialising in:- Survey / Design / Installation / Greens / ● Existing system evaluation complete design, planting and maintenance service to EQUIPMENT Fairways / Bunkers / Complete Courses 0113 267 7000 For fast and friendly UK ● System design & upgrade • USED MACHINERY Plastic Pipe / Turfdry Drainage System www.greentek.org.ukservice call: enrich your course without the hassle. We also help you The bunker lining solution ● Project management access grant funding: depending on certain criteria, you • VERTIDRAINING HIRE 01344 621654 Tel: 01785 812706 For fast and friendly Nationwide Service Melvyn Taylor E: [email protected] can receive up to £4,800/ha which usually covers costs • WASTE/WASHWATER www.theblinder.com Contact Melvyn Taylor: 01283 551417 on 01283 551417 Contact Roger Davey on: www.northstaffsirrigation.co.uk 07836 259133 / [email protected] IRRIGorAT 07836ION 259133 with change left over to put towards club funds! TREATMENT 01823 690216 Stourton Forestry also undertake a wide range of www.turfdry.com www.turfdry.com www.irritechlimited.co.uk woodland management operations, including small scale CONSTRUCTION work with low impact machinery – ideal for sensitive S P E E D C U T sites such as golf courses. We can help you manage your ALL WEATHER SURFACES C O N T R A C T O R S LTD Philip Dixon Contractors Ltd Photo courtesy of Rudding Park existing trees by thinning overcrowded areas, felling and Repton Short Course ‘Signature Island Green’. Established 1978 Sportsturf Drainage Specialist restructuring. If you have significant areas of woodland, SPORTSTURF & a long-term management plan may be appropriate and Drainage • Construction • Renovation GOLF COURSE we can also advise on the grants and licences that are applicable. PREMIER ALL-WEATHER SURFACES FOR GOLF . CONSTRUCTION IRRIGATION SPECIALISTS Timber can often be sold to offset costs. Hardwood . DRAINAGE DESIGN & SUPPLY . RENOVATION timber is particularly in demand for firewood, and large, Slitting • Banding • Maintenance INSTALLATION straight trees can be valuable for planking. If you have suf- Oxford 01865 331479 Tel 01772 877289 (Preston, Lancs) MAINTENANCE ficient quantities, timber can be marketed as roundwood www.speedcutcontractors.co.uk Email: [email protected] or we can advise on adding value yourselves, including www.dixondrainage.co.uk Tel. 01722 716361 processing material for biomass boilers. Tel. 0116 2696766 www.mjabbott.co.uk While mature trees contribute enormously to the Scotland Based landscape and wider environment, they can also become Huxley Practice Tee at St Andrews Links Meiklem Drainage unstable and dangerous. Landowners have a legal duty to Top quality practice tees, golf course tees, putting protect people from harm caused by their trees. A survey & pitching greens, pathways, patios, cart tracks and lawns professionally designed and installed. Contractors Ltd by our professionally qualified tree safety expert will Sportsturf Drainage Specialists ADVERTISE HERE identify any trees that pose a significant risk and make Tel: 01962 733222 Golf Courses - Sportsfields LAKE CONSTRUCTION LINERS sensible, pragmatic recommendations to manage your [email protected] from as little as £250 www.huxleygolf.com Drainage * Construction liability. DRAINAGE SPECIALISTS * Slitting/Banding for a FULL 6 MONTHS, We are always happy to discuss your requirements, DESIGN & INSTALLATION Contact Meiklem Drainage on: please do not hesitate to e-mail ([email protected]) PRIMARY SYSTEMS full colour, please call Look at the latest... T: 01383 830217 Supply and installation of plastic or call us on 01507 578 080. SAND SLITTING liners for golf lakes and ponds Second Hand Machinery M: 07808 897 300 GRAVEL BANDING Jill on 01347 833 832 or ...for sale [email protected] Tel. 01722 716361 email Tel: 01206 262676 www.bigga.org.uk/classifieds www.meiklem.com www.mjabbott.co.uk [email protected] www.geosynthetic.co.uk

60 GI OCTOBER 2012 OCTOBER 2012 GI 61