Anewmanatthe

Award-winning magazine of the British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association

BIGGA

July 2001 - £3.50

INTERNATIONAL

ANEWMANATTHE

CUSHMAN www. textronsolutions. com TEXTRON Central Avenue, Ransomes Europark, Ipswich IP3 9QG England. Tel: +44 (0)1473 270000 Fax: +44 (0)1473 276300 GOLF AND TURF PRODUCTS A guide to Advertisers* Index who's who Advertiser Page AGCO Ltd at BIGGA 52 Your next issue of Greenkeeper Internationa! Allett Mowers 16 will be with you by August 13, 2001 President Berkshire College 28 Sir Michael Bonallack, OBE Boughton Loam 36

Charterhouse 38-39 Regulars BIGGA Board of Management Chairman - Clive Osgood Eagle Promotions 19 Vice Chairman - Richard Barker Elmwood College 28 News Past Chairman - Elliott Small Pages 4,5,6 and 7 Fern House Marketing 36 Board Members Ian Semple Greensward 21 Paul Jenkins Inturf 7 Letters Jim Paton 36 Ian Holoran I0G - Saltex 51 David Walden ISS Irrigation Systems 31 8 Education Executive Director Educaton and Training Manager, Ken Richardson, keeps you Neil Thomas Kawasaki 21 updated on educational developments Email: [email protected] Lastec 16 Administration Manager Major Equipment 16 John Pemberton 10 Membership Update Email: [email protected] Rolawn 11

Editorial/Media Textron 2 Scott MacCallum 11 Web Watch Wessex Farm Machinery 21,31 Email: [email protected]

Education & Training Manager Ken Richardson 38-41 Around the Green Email: [email protected]

Membership Services Officer 48 Sign of the Times Tracey Maddison Sandy McDivot takes his usual irreverent look at the world of signs Email: [email protected] YOU'VE

Contact us GOT MAIL! 50 Features Listing If you've got an email account, and want to Helping you track down some of Greenkeeper International's keep up to date with the latest news and You can contact The British and previous articles events from the turfcare industry, drop us International Golf Greenkeepers an email, and we'll add you to our ever Association in any number of ways: increasing list of online subscribers. Post: BIGGA HOUSE, Aldwark, We'll then inform you of any forthcoming 50 As I see it... Alne, York, Y061 1UF features and events via email. Don't Panic! National Chairman Clive Osgood, calls for cool heads Email: [email protected] Simply send an email to: when it comes to coping with the pressures brought about by the flooding and Foot and Mouth Outbreak Internet: www.bigga.org.uk [email protected] Tel: 01347 833800 quoting your name and Membership number, Fax: 01347 833801 INVESTOR IN PEOPLE and we'll do the rest - it's that easy! Features

12 A new man at the Helm Scott MacCallum met up with Royal Lytham & St Annes Head Greenkeeper, Paul Smith, in the run up to his first Th# official monthly magazine Open Championship in charge of the British & International Golf Grefeiilceepers Association 17 Time for Tees Editorial Editor: Scott MacCallum Roland Taylor takes a look at the the world of tees mowers Tel: 01347 833800 Fax: 01347 833801 (T?) A new man at the Helm Email: [email protected] Advertising 22 Grasses for Greens Sales & Marketing Department: Steve Gingell, of the STRI, reviews the Jennifer Whichello, [email protected] options when it comes to grass for greens Cheryl Broomhead, [email protected] Meredith Foster, [email protected] Tel: 01347 833800 Fax: 01347 833802 29 Fertility Rights (not wrongs) Email: [email protected] Mark Hunt gives some useful advice when it comes Design Design & Production Editor: David Emery to planning a fertiliser regime for your greens Tel: 01347 833800 ISDN: 01347 830020 Email: [email protected] Printing (^2?) Grasses for Greens 34 Room to Grow Hi-Tec Print, Units 9-10, Houghton Road, Scott MacCallum met up with new John Deere North Anston Trading Estate, North Anston, General Manager, Clay Sherrill Sheffield S25 4JJ ISDN: 01909 550561 Tel: 01909 568533 Fax: 01909 568206

The advertising copy deadline for inclusion in the August 2001 edition of Greenkeeper International is Monday, July 16, 2001

Greenkeeper International: Fertility Rights (not wrongs) Contents may not be reprinted or otherwise reproduced without written permission. Return postage must accompany all materials submitted if return is requested. No responsibility can be assumed for unsolicited materials. The right is reserved to edit submissions before publication. Although every care will be taken, noresponsibility i s acceptedfor los s of manuscripts, photographs or artwork. Opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the Visit www«bissa*ors*uk and check out the Association, and noresponsibility i s acceptedfor suc h content, advertising or product information that may appear. latest chat from the greenkeeping industry Circulation is by subscription. Subscription rate: UK £36 per year, Europe and Eire £46. The magazine is also distributed to BIGGA members, golf clubs, local authorities, the turf industry, libraries and central government. (4?) Sandy McDivot ISSN: 0961-6977 © 2001 British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association

July 2001 Greenkeeper International 3 BIGGA survey: An excellent response

As this edition of Greenkeeper as representatives of golf clubs results that will be in the full International goes to press, Mike and greenkeepers who are not report. Williamson of MW Associates is currently BIGGA members. A lot In the meantime, Mike passes busy analysing the responses to of people have applauded BIG- on his thanks to all those who the market research survey we GA for having the survey carried took the time to respond, often The month of July is the highlight for many with reported on in March. out - and are looking forward to very fully, to the questionnaires The Open Championship acting as a magnet for "The response to the survey hearing the outcome!" and interviews. And Mike's com- golf lovers from all over the world. has been excellent," said Mike. As a first step, Mike miserations to the 569 members It is a marvellous event both on and off the course "We have received completed Williamson will be reporting key who did not win the £ 100 vouch- as it's the perfect opportunity to see the world's questionnaires from 570 BIGGA findings from the research to the er in the questionnaire prize finest exponents of the game up close and also meet members, and have conducted BIGGA Board at their June meet- draw. friends you perhaps haven't seen for the entire 12 about 150 telephone interviews ing. The Board will then decide (The lucky winner was Stephen Curtis, months. with companies and organisa- on the best way of considering, Head Greenkeeper of Richmond Park In this regard BIGGA is extremely fortunate. Not tions in the golf industry, as well and responding to, the detailed GC in Norfolk. only does me hard working BIGGA Support Team have the chance to play a key role in one of the biggest events in the sporting calendar but the BIGGA marquee is a superb base for members to Scottish National Championship meet and enjoy a bit of refreshment between watching live golf. Results Having said that, with television sets in the marquee some people do tend to settle in for an Scottish Champion. SGGA afternoon in front of the box and the delights of Challenge Cup, Scratch, Peter Alliss and Alex Hay rather than seeing the Stuart Raeburn, Tulliallan, 73. action first hand. Friendship Trophy, Best Net, This year, Lytham St Annes plays host to the Stephen Brown, Newmachar, 68. Championship, and the course has been prepared Category One, Ransomes Trophy for a Open for the first time by Paul Smith and his 1. George Thompson, Goswick, 72; 2. James McCormack, Kirriemuir, 73BIH; team. 3. Archie Dunn, Auchterarder, 73. Paul was First Assistant to Jimmy MacDonald Category Two. Pattisson Trophy. MBE last time the Championship was played there 1 .Craig Pennycuick, Winterfield, 72-, in 1996, and that experience, coupled with that 2. Colin Irvine, Muirfield, 74; acquired since he started out in the profession as a 3. Alan Russell, Torphin Hill, 76 BIH. 16 year old apprentice at St Annes Old Links, will Category 3 STRI Trophy. stand him in good stead when the media spotlight 1. Andy Wilson, Brechin, 73; falls on the course. 2. Albert Arnott, Lochore Meadows, 76; You can read about Paul's preparations for The 3. Colin Scott, Glasgow, 80. Open elsewhere in this issue but you can be sure A superb round of 73 around day and posted fine scores. Best Head GK, Dick Aitken Trophy, that the conditions which face the 156 competi- the long and testing Drumoig Although windless, the home Stuart Taylor, Glasgow, 73. tors, who tee it up on Thursday, July 19, to face Hotel Golf Resort in Fife by five of the Scottish Golf Centre test- Best Assistant, M&M Trophy, Lytham's daunting opening par-3, will be as good handicapper Stuart Raeburn ed everyone with its succession Kenneth Mitchell, St Andrews, 74. as the weather in the run up to the Championships clinched the 2001 Scottish of long par fours and fives not Best Apprentice, Souter Trophy, has allowed. National Tournament. to mention an array of par-3 s in Richard Love, Kilmacolm, 74. My first experience of Royal Lytham came in The 22 year-old First Assistant excess of 200 yards. Best Veteran, SIGGA Trophy, 1988 when Seve Ballesteros went head to head to current National Past Beautifully maintained by Ian Duncan Gray, Pines, 75. with Nick Price and produced some miraculous golf Chairman Elliott Small, played Menzies and his team the 10 Team Trophy (Best four net scores) to win. We can all recall the wonderful chip he near the back of the field and year-old course, just a few miles St Mungo Cup, North - Stephen Brown, James McCormack, Andy Wilson and played from the side of the green which all but went overhauled the scores of Stuart inland of St Andrews, required John Urquhart. in. Taylor, from Glasgow Golf Club, proficiency with every club in Trade: Pat Allan, Stewarts. In the midst of such heroics it was easy to forget and Richard Love, of Kilmacolm, the bag to achieve a score any- that Seve held the Claret Jug aloft on the Monday who had been out earlier in the where close to handicap. Guest; Scott MacCallum, BIGGA. afternoon and not the Sunday Horrendous rain caused Saturday's third round to be washed out and we all had to amend our diaries to allow for another day While this was inconvenient for many it was nothing compared to the work Jimmy Stephen Macdonald and his team, with the help of the BIGGA Greenkeeping Support Team had to do to boxes clever make the course playable for the Sunday and the Monday In such occasions people can show their at John true qualities and it was not just Seve who deserved all the acco- O'Gaunt lades that year, behind the scenes there were a great many more. Stephen Thompson, of John Hopefully Paul and his O'Gaunt Golf Club who has pre- team will not have to pull the viously reported on the success stops out to such an extent this of the bird boxes installed on the year and will have a suc- course has further good news to cessful, and quiet Open report. Championship. "So far 11 our of 14 tit boxes have been accepted and we have 84 young blue tits ranging in age from half a day to 14 days. 31 blue tits were ringed and we also had a nest containing three young great tits," said Stephen. "Out of six open fronted box- cessful," said Stephen who The majority of the boxes were es one was used and a complete works closely with Peter put up in February and March nest found, presumably used by Wilkinson of Bird life this year to give the birds time a wren," said Stephen. International, who was able to to get used to them and possi- "This was the first year for ring some of the birds. bly to roost in them. these boxes and it was very suc- PGA team: A real credit to their Association ^ THE NEWS iNtHtf

Greenkeepers came from Denmark, Scotland, Wales and England to vol- unteer their services for the Volvo PGA Championship held at The % Wentworth Club at the end of May. A" SM3N3H1^X Their work are much appreciated by the European Tour as by relieving You may have heard their caddies of the bunker raking considerable time is saved on a round, names mentioned in speeding up play to the advantage of conversation, or even seen all concerned. them in print, but have you ever They are also a great comfort to wondered who the individuals Course Manager, Chris Kennedy, who are who help BIGGA to run so apart from all the worries that he has smoothly as the leading during a Championship such as this Association in the fine turf knows that in the event of heavy rain industry? Read on... he can call on tremendous support from this team to get the squeegees out and keep play moving by keeping the greens playable. The Championship in the past has been plagued by such weather and Above: The 2001 Volvo PGA Championship Support Team relaxes with Nick Faldo was one of the reasons that the Tour Below: The team poses with new Volvo PGA Champion Andrew Oldcorn asked the Association if Greenkeeper Support could be made available for all four days this year. Thankfully that was not the case this year and the event was blessed with four days of almost continual sunshine. More volunteers would have been useful over the first two days as there were 52 matches to provide for and it was a great effort by those Greenkeepers who covered two rounds in tempera- Jim Patón tures around the eighties. There was a great atmosphere in our BIGGA Board Member little office, nobody being unkind to the Regional Administrator when he for Scotland gave exhibitions of controlled panic Name: Jim Paton and an even better one, especially on Golf Club: West Kilbride GC the last day in the hospitality suite overlooking the 18th green gener- Association Position: Board Member for Scotland ously provided for our use by the Tour, for apart from the Support How long have you been a Team we seemed to 'pick up' lots of member of BIGGA? Since its inception in 1987. Greenkeepers there just for the golf (including Jack and Rita McMillan!) Where do you hope the and who managed to talk their way Association will be in 10 years time? past security drink afterwards but I reckon the two Finally, the following conversation Having a greater regional identity On a serious side eventual winner shots that he would have incurred was overheard between a greenkeep- with full time Regional Administrators Andrew Oldcorn must feel eternally without Rob's help were worth thou- er inside the ropes, who was and their own regional offices. grateful to Rob Boyce, Newmarket, sands. accompanying the Lady Official mark- For what would you most who was the only person to see his The week seemed to run rather er during one of the days play ... like to be remembered? ball catch a brancn while he was play- smoothly especially with Andrew Being on the board at a very ing out of trees and land near him, Oldcorn and Nick Faldo posing for GK: What Club are you from? important time in the Association's development - moving into our own still in the trees and finishing up cov- the cameras with the Team. I'm sure Lady Official: Wentworth GK: Do you live on the Estate offices and taking giant leaps forward ered in leaves. As Andrew and his that all of the Greenkeepers, includ- Lady Official: Yes generally. caddie walked towards the green Rob ing Willy Harder who had made the GK: You don't live in one of these £3 For what would you least called out "Where are you going? The trip from Denmark to work all four million houses do you? like to be remembered? balls here." days, will want to return next year, Lady Official: No darling. I live in one of Some of the pictures Scott has taken Oldcorn then played a great shot hopefully with a few more volunteers these £10 million pound houses! of me for the magazine. on to the green and holed the putt. to make those first two days a little Derek Farrington Why did you take on a more At least the caddie bought him a easier. A great effort by all concerned. involved role in the running of the Association? Being more involved has enabled me to assist in bettering the lot of the Royal Iriverdivot GC*t* StripCartoonistoftheYear www.tonyhusband.co.uk greenkeeper. Name one thing which would improve the Association? If every greenkeeper joined the Association. What is your claim to fame (None, not acceptable)? Former Open Champion Mark Calcavecchia giving me his clubs after a round in the '91 Open at Royal Birkdale. Any offers? Describe BIGGA in 15 words. (15ish!) Better greenkeepers through education, Improved golf courses, Gains for members, Great social opportunities, Advances in standards throughout. Simon and Jim LOOKBACK TO Gleneagles to host new get expanded _ Back r* Turf Care Conference roles at Advanta Lapping i o p* The first ever Turf Care Conference Among the speakers confirmed are will be held at The Gleneagles Hotel Fred Green, Developer of Queenwood this November Golf Club, England, Nantucket Golf Take a time-honoured to The Conference, the brainchild of Club, USA; David McLay Kidd, ok Jimmy Kidd, Director of Turfgrass Designer of Queenwood GC and Management at Gleneagles, is Bandon Dunes GC in the USA; back through the pages of designed to appeal to and address Project Manager/Membership Greenkeeper International issues facing both the business entre- Structures, Melvin Thomas, of from a decade ago preneur who wishes to build a golf Barrelfield GC; Dr Albert Kausch, course as well as those already involved Rhode Island University; George in the industry who can turn the devel- Shiels, Consultant Agronomist; oper's ambition into reality. Melodee Fraser, Director of Research "There are a lot of different individ- - Pure Seed Testing Inc; Paul Latshaw, uals required to build and maintain a US Open and Masters Course pre- golf course each with their own area of sentation and Jan Beukema, Rain Bird expertise and all with an important role Irrigation Design and Operation. to play in the development process," The main sponsor of the Conference said Jimmy. is Textron Golf, Turf and Specialty "The Conference is the ideal spring- Products. board for representatives from each "I am delighted on behalf of Textron part of that process to meet and expand to offer our full support for the their knowledge and understanding of Conference. It's a phenomenal idea. one another's role. I am confident that the speakers from "Experts in the field of golf course the UK and USA will inspire dele- JULY 1991 design, construction, turf care and golf gates and undoubtedly nurture management will provide professional examples of good practice from day advice on each aspect of the develop- one which will benefit their golf Award for Walter Woods. ment process, taking them from the course venture and the industry in Advanta Seeds has handed Simon It was reported with great pleasure initial idea to the first tee shot," he the long term," said Peter Bell, Harrison and Jim Fulton expanded that the Association had learnt of the award of the British Empire Medal to explained. Marketing Director. roles within the company. Walter Woods in the Queen's Birthday Based in Leeds Simon is now respon- Honours List. The award had been sible for after sales in the north as well made to recognise his services both as as managing Advanta's advertising Links Supervisor at St Andrews and to and PR spend, attendance at shows the greenkeeping profession. Walter New man for Eammon Wall had played a leading part in the including BTME and SALTEX and all establishment of BIGGA in 1987 and Eamonn Wall and Co has appoint- promotional activities. had been the first Chairman of the ed Antony Strawson to its new Jim, who lives near Grantham, will Association. The magazine commented English office in the Midlands, where look after his customers in the east but on his forthright views, warmth of the company has now concentrated also manage sales on a nationwide personality and his determination to enhance the greenkeeping profession its English based consultants. basis. and the well-being of greenkeepers. It The company now has two offices, was hoped that the Association would at Dollar in Scotland and Retford in continue to enjoy his practical support Nottinghamshire. Section Event? and be able to call on his technical Antony, 30, is an experienced wood- www.bigga.org.uk/events.html expertise for many years to come. Although 'retired', Walter remains very land design and management active today both in a consultancy role consultant having worked for anoth- and as one of BIGGAs Guardians on the er company in the East Midlands for Apologies Board of Management. the last five years. He is a graduate Last month we inadvertently of Reading and Oxford Universities described the AEA as the ABE. This The Open Championship. Greenkeeper International previewed and is a native of Lincolnshire. He is was as a result of a scanning error not the Open Championship to be held at a keen mountaineer and a member picked up at a later date and we apol- Royal Birkdale with the golf course in of the Institute of Chartered ogise to the Association for any the excellent hands of Tom O'Brien Foresters. embarrassment caused. B.E.M. It is interesting to note 'Royal Birkdale's Working Calendar' at the time. Aeration: Throughout the year Tom aerates Latest news? the greens weekly, stepped up at the back Rolawn website is a real hit www.bigga.org.uk/news.html end of the year to 2/3 times a week. Top dressing: He dresses the greens once a Rolawn opened its web site just over helping us to both recruit and pro- month before The Open with a Buxton Sand Management buy of a consistent grade and particle size, a year ago and has steadily built up vide ongoing support for stockists" specified by the STRI. awareness of the site to the extent said Terry Ryan. out at AF Trenchers Verticuts: Every two weeks until two weeks that in recent months their site has "It's all too easy to dismiss tech- before the tournament. received record numbers of visits ris- nology but we believe that in the A.F. Trenchers has been the subject Turf grooming: He uses Turf Groomers all ing to 16000 page requests in May future there will be only two kinds of of a management take-over from its the time. The height is adjusted according to grass growth. alone. business. Those that develop tech- co-founders Bruce and Rodney Grass growth: Greens are cut every day. In Recent developments have includ- nology as their servant and those that Fulford. The 35 year old company January, February and March there isn't ed using the site as a means of are going out of business." will be continued to run by Harry much growth because the turf is links grass recruiting stockists for both turf and Jurgens and will be renamed A.F.T. and east winds retard development. It is the recently launched loam products, Trenchers and will continue to oper- more a case of trimming than cutting - he ate in both the domestic and exports calls it 'topping'. which are sold in to the topsoil mar- WHO USES ROLAWN 1 markets. Grass cuts: He cuts in two directions at 90 ket. Potential stockists register their BMP degrees. During The Open weeks he cuts interest via e-mail. TOPSOIL YOU BRITAIN'RolawS FINEST TU«nF The company has also appointed the greens three times a day - once early "We are delighted with progress and Look no further ...you've just Angus Macdonald, who will be morning, twice at night. the variety of ways we are able to use found the world's finest turf responsible for marketing in UK and Length of cut: Before The Open - three- sixteenths, during The Open - one-eighth of the web site. It is such a flexible medi- Ireland and to service the company's an inch. um and it is particularly interesting existing customer base and with Watering: Yes, he uses water, but only if to use it to support the development developing the plant and agricultur- absolutely necessary. of a product as basic as topsoil. We al sectors for all A.F.T. Trenchers' see the web as an invaluable aid in attachments. Rothley trespasser turned medal winner MVfrlLBAG MAlLeAn

A dog walk which took in land own- ing to Rothley Park Golf Club resulted Letters in the trespasser being offered a job at the club. Six years later that trespasser, Sue Antcliffe, now Deputy Course Manager at the club has been award- Address your letters to The Editor, ed a Medal of Excellence for her Greenkeeper International, BIGGA outstanding NVQ Level 3 work under- HOUSE, Aldwark, Alne, York Y061 taken through Brooksby College. 1UF, or email them to The medal is not just for green- [email protected] keepers but is open to everyone undertaking NVQs to Level 3 in out- door work with only a select few out Safety in the sun of the 18,000 in the category being awarded medals. If anybody else has suffered the "I finished the course last year and problems of trying to keep a fair skin, the college entered me for the award. or any other skin, protected on a long I didn't hear anything for quite a while summer day outdoors, then check and thought not more about it until out an excellent product which only the letter arrived," said Sue, 33. needs to be applied once and is effec- Her unusual entry in the green- Left to right. The Rothley Team. Jordan Roman, David Holling Paul Falk, Stav Wooding, tive for the whole day. keeping profession- she had just been Sue Antcliffe, Dave Doherty and Nick Smith. Despite covering up with hats, it made redundant from a garden centre takes the worry out of all that out- and was looking for work - says much and as Sue was doing so well, every sails at a national level. door exposure to dangerous rays. An for Course Manager Stav Woodings good at ever task and very thorough, "I like the variety of this job, no two added bonus is that it isn't sticky and ability to spot potential. she became Deputy From trespasser days are ever the same. Each day is a all that lovely bunker sand stuck to "We were stretched at the time and to Deputy in three years," said Stav. challenge and you never stop learning. your skin with normal sun products talking with Sue I thought she could "Now she is a key member of the I also like the environmental side of won't be a problem! It's a Danish sun do a good job for me. We gave her two team and I don't know how we would the job and I write articles on this in filter called P20 and it works! ... days a week and then added another manage without her," he added. the club magazine." although it needs to be applied well day and before we knew it she was Stav works a rotation system at In future Sue would like to contin- before exposure to allow it to bond working full time. Rothley Park in which every one of ue her education perhaps undertaking with your skin. "Sue then asked if she could attend the seven man team does every job. more specialist courses covering irri- college and she actually reached the "I don't look on myself as a female. gation. James Hall, currently on student regional finals of the Toro Student of I'm must one of the lads and can lift She will be presented with her medal placement in a very hot Italy. the Year Award, then my Deputy left as well as they can," said Sue, who also later this summer. PGA thanks I was privileged to be part of the Happy Birthday Pest and Disease Audit Support Team at Wentworth for the undertaken by the STRI PGA Championship and I would like Banks Amenity Products is to congratulate Derek Farrington for celebrating 40 years in the golf course and landscape industries. The number of outbreaks and the severity of pest his efforts in making the team work Founded in 1961 by Reginald and diseases on sports turf throughout the UK is for the entire four days of the Banks, the company has been currently an unknown factor so the advisory team Championship as opposed to the owned and managed by Tim Banks and research staff at the STRI have vowed to final two for which it had operated since 1981. rectify the situation. in previous years. He was ably assist- "Banks Amenity Products has Part of a surplus from the STRI's advisory work is ed by all and sundry who couldn't do been providing high quality bulk being used to fund an internal research programme materials for four decades," said into the spread and severity of pests and diseases enough for the cause. Tim. on sports turf throughout the UK and Ireland. The I personally had a great day and feel Banks Amenity Products was one programme is being co-ordinated by Dr Ruth Mann, certain that everyone else did so as of the founder members of the the STRI Turf Pathologist. well. A few more volunteers next year BAGCC (British Association of Initially the research will centre on a Golf Course Constructors) and comprehensive questionnaire which will determine I'm sure would be greatly appreciat- the newly formed BRTMA (British the major pests and diseases across the country ed. Rootzone & Top Dressing and any hot spots of certain problems. Thanks also to our standby pho- Manufacturers Association). Questionnaires have been sent to all clubs in the tographer in the shape of Mrs Today the company enjoys the UK and Ireland. Farrington. benefits of having an excellent Once the replies have been collated on a database the Research Staff reputation for supplying quality will be able to determine if there are any correlations between disease Peter Biscoe, Kent materials to some of the most occurrence and management practices or weather conditions. prestigious golf courses Initial results, showing the spread of pests and diseases will be throughout the UK. published on the STRI's website www.stri.org.uk and in the Turfgrass Bulletin early next year. BIGGA keep up the good work I want to take time to congratulate Runner-up showing for East Section National Championship all of the staff at BIGGA for excel- October 1-2, 2001 lent service, prompt action to my Royal Birkdale and Congratulations and well done to finals en route to the final where they Southport and Ainsdale GCs membership enquiry and for putting the BIGGA East Section team who were narrowly beaten 6 & 5 in the together a magazine that is informa- All greenkeepers should have received tive, up-to-date and has retained its were competing for only their second final by the Barnton Hotel who them- the brochure including application form time in the Dispatch Trophy which is selves were playing in only their for the National Championship with English feel over the 12 years I have played over the Braid Hills Golf second time in the competition. So the May copy of Greenkeeper enjoyed it. Course in Edinburgh for over 100 well done to the team. International magazine. If any member The fact that I'm in Hong Kong and years at the Braids. Last year, their first, The team consisted of four section has mislaid the brochure please can still find out what is happening contact Sarah at BIGGA HOUSE for in the UK in this industry and keep they were beaten in the 1st round but members and they were Tom Murray, an additional one. The response to put up a very good performance Ratho Park; David Drummond, date is such that early booking is a little finger on the pulse makes against one of the former winners so Muirfield; Stevie Nicol, Winterfield, essential to guarantee a place in the England feel at little closer. they did not disgrace themselves. This and Iain Laing, Kingsknowe. Championship. I take my hat off to you all. year they did even better, beating for- Well done lads and we hope you mer winners and tournament can go one better and lift the trophy Tel: 01347 833800 Ian Bruton, Skek O Country Club, Email: [email protected] favourites Silverknowes in the semi next year. Chris Yeaman Hong Kong This month, BIGGA's Education and Training Manager, Ken Richardson, congratulates the first group of successful CPD delegates, and invites entries for the forthcoming CPD year.

-^Qdn 3±VOdn ^ Greenkeeper Continuing Professional Development Education and Development

BIGGA Fund Congratulations to all of the green- successive BIGGA Certificates of CPD CPD Certificates Points GOLDEN KEY keepers who successfully achieved the will be awarded a BIGGA Diploma of and SILVER KEY Jonathan Hamlet 54 CIRCLES standard required for the BIGGA Continuous Professional Development. Gordon Irvine MG 53 Continuing Professional Development The Fund provides the key to the Ian Willett 48 future for greenkeeper, golf club and The Scheme (CPD) Certificate. The second year of game. Individuals and companies can 1. Greenkeepers must be members of Andy Campbell MG 29 the BIGGA CPD scheme commences join the Golden Key Circle and Silver BIGGA. Stuart Hogg 23 on 1 July 2001 and ends on 30 June Key Circle. For details, please Michael Smith 21 2002. 2. Applications must be on a CPD contact Neil Thomas, Executive Registration Form. Nigel White 18 Director on 01347 833800 or via The BIGGA CPD Scheme is designed John Quinn MG 17 [email protected] to encourage greenkeepers to: 3. Applicants must hold a minimum qualification of N/SVQ Level 2 or Alec Maclndoe 15 equivalent. Mark Broughton MG 13 Adapt outdated skills. 4. CPD credits are awarded for a wide Nathan Marsh 13 TEXTRON K'jbofo Keep in touch with changes in legislation. TURF CARE PRODUCTS range of education and training courses, Seve Schmitz MG 13 Show employers that greenkeepers are eg. an approved 1 day course attracts 3 Lee Strutt 13 professionals. credits, a two day course 5 credits. Antony Bindley 12 Attend the full week of education and Accumulate credits towards further training at Harrogate inJanuary 2002 Chris Carpenter MG 11 National Qualifications eg. N/SVQ, and you would receive your 10 credit lain Macleod 11 HNC, HND etc. requirement. Nigel Potter 11 Cope with change. 5. Each greenkeeper must accumulate at John Wells MG 11 Attract higher salaries. least 10 credits per year. David Winterton MG 11 6. All training must be related to National David Bougen 10 HA ITER Standards. Kevin Hodges 10 O Certificates are awarded to all those Graeme MacDonald 10 BIGGA greenkeepers who accumu- Thanks to the contributors to the Ian MacMillan MG 10 Redexim • late a minimum of 10 CPD credits BIGGA Education and Development Andy Smith 10 annually. BIGGA greenkeeper mem- Fund, (details in the panel on the right) Denis Tweddell 10 bers who have been awarded 5 the Scheme is free to all members. S3553HI BTME2002 EDUCATION UPDATE BTME2002 outline education programme YOU'VE GOT Wednesday Thursday Friday Golden Key Circle Company Members m@il! Company Tel: Head Office Seminar Session 1 Seminar Session 4 Seminar Session 6 If you've got an email account why Amazone Ground Care 01579 351155 This Keynote session will be Paul Crowe This session will be FREE not send an email to the education Bernhard and Company Ltd 01788 ß11600 FREE to all wishing to attend. Brin Bendon to all wishing to attend. department, where we can place Charterhouse Turf Machinery Ltd 01428 661222 David Winterton MG you into our exclusive education Gem Professional 01254 356611 Content TBC Andy Campbell MG Seminar Session 2 email address book. We can then Jim Moore Mike Canaway John Deere Ltd 01949 860491 keep you up-to-date with education Content TBC Seminar Session 5 Clive Osgood Hayter Ltd 01279 723444 news and events as they happen. James Beard Content TBC Kubota UK Ltd 01844 214500 Seminar Session 3 Content TBC Send an email to: Massey Ferguson (AGCO Ltd) 02476 851292 Frank Ainsworth [email protected] PGA European Tour 01344 842881 Alex Vickers Keep checking wwwjrfgg&ofgoik for the latest news on the [email protected] Content TBC Rain Bird 01273 891326 various education and training options available at BTME2002 [email protected] Rigby Taylor Ltd 01204 394888 Scotts UK Professional 01473 830492 day learning options at BTME2002 day learning options at BTME2002 Stoke Park Club 01753 717171 Textron Turf Care 01473 270000 Monday Tuesday Monday gj 22 January, 2002 The Toro Company/Lely UK 01202 319987 Individual Members National Education Conference, National Education Conference, National Education Conference, National Education Conference, Mike Eastwood, J H Fry, J H Greasley, Majestic Hotel, Harrogate Majestic Hotel, Harrogate Majestic Hotel, Harrogate Majestic Hotel, Harrogate David S Robinson, Stuart Townsend

Emergency First Aid Emergency First Aid Golf Course Design Golf Course Design ERNEST Workshop Workshop and Construction 1 and Construction 1 SISIS Environmental Management Environmental Management National Education Conference, Emergency First Aid Workshop Workshop Majestic Hotel, Harrogate Workshop IOCMIS j) Heath Lambert Group IRRIGATION National Education Conference, Environmental Management The National Education Conference includes four sessions over Majestic Hotel, Harrogate Workshop Silver Key Circle Company Members two days, including a Master Class from Dr James Beard, Company Tel: Head Office sessions on Global Warming and the Golf Course, Redesign and Emergency First Aid National Education Conference, Reconstruction of Golf Course Features and Winter Preparation. Ernest Doe & Sons 01254 380311 Workshop Majestic Hotel, Harrogate Golf Course Design 1 will be presented, by Howard Swan and Heath Lambert Group 0113 246 1313 Simon Gidman. Bob Taylor, Jonathan Smith and Fiona Mclntyre Ocmis Irrigation 01460 241939 Environmental Management National Education Conference, have agreed to co-host the Environmental Management Workshop. Sisis Equipment Ltd 01625 503030 Workshop Majestic Hotel, Harrogate Seminar speakers will include Frank Ainsworth, James Beard, Brin Bendon, Andy Campbell MG, Mike Canaway, Clive Osgood, Paul Individual Members Crowe, Jim Moore, Alex Vickers and David Winterton MG Emergency First Aid Environmental Management Clive A Archer, John Crawford, Bruce Cruickshank, Workshop Workshop Douglas G Duguid, Alan Holmes, Kenneth Jones, lain A MacLeod, Robert Maibusch MG, Richard S Watch out in further editions of this magazine and on the BIGGA Environmental Management Emergency First Aid Mullen, Elliott R Small, Steven Tiemey, Raymond J Website for more details of speakers and how to book your place Workshop Workshop Warrender, WJ Rogers, C J Yeaman The 13th BTME, held in January this year, proved to be the best ever with record attendance figures over 7,800. In our series of countdown articles to BTME2002, Meredith Foster gives some vital information for exhibitors both new and old ...

Confirmed Exhibitors Details correct as of 18.06.01

Advanta Seeds UK Ltd Lindum Seeded Turf Ltd Af Trenchers Ltd Links Leisure Ltd AGCO (Massey Ferguson) Lloyds & Co Letchworth Ltd Aitkens Sportsturf Ltd Logic Irrigation Akham Bryan College Long Equipment Ltd Allen Power Eq Ltd

Major Equipment Ltd Amenity Land Servs Ltd Dont miss Merrist Wood College Amenity Technology Mitchell Hire Ltd Angus Horticulture Arden Lea Irrigation Ltd Nickerson UK Ltd Aventis Environmental Science North Staffs Irrig Ltd Avoncrop Amenity Ocmis Irrigation UK Ltd Products Ltd Aztec Chemicals Ltd Pentagon Amenity Marketing Ltd Barenbrug UK Ltd Port Agric Ltd Bathgate Silica Sand Prestige Sports Surfaces Ltd Psd Agronomy Ltd Bernhard & Company Ltd Rain Bird Europe S.A.R.L Better Methods Europe Better Methods Europe Reasheath College Ltd Richard Campey Ltd Rigby Taylor Ltd BTME is an essential event for all Blee Landscaping Equipment Co Ltd those connected to the turfcare and, Rolawn (Turfgrowers) Ltd Boughton Loam Ltd in particular, the golf greenkeeping Rousseau Equipment Ltd Boyd Golf Course industry. 200 manufacturers and sup- Accessories Rufford Soil Technology pliers of turfcare and golf course/club British Seed Houses Same Deutz-Fahr UK Ltd related products and services were pre- Cannington College Saxon Industries sent at the 2001 show unveiling new Capari Pumps (UK) Ltd Scotts UK products, services and techniques. Charterhouse Turf Sheppy Fertilisers Ltd Machinery Shirley Aldred & Co Ltd Much more than a trade show, Cleveland Sitesafe Ltd Simon Tullett Machinery BTME incorporates extensive educa- Club Car - Ingersoll Rand Sisis Equipment tional programmes and seminars (Macclesfield) Ltd which have a broad appeal for visitors Spaldings UK Ltd to the show. The speakers are experts Dgt-Volmatic A/S Speedcut Contractors in their particular fields and include Distinct Manufacturing Sumi Agro (UK) Ltd international academics and UK Dlf Perryfields Supaturf Products Ltd greenkeeping professionals with exten- Dw Tomlin Swan Golf Designs Ltd sive practical knowledge on many of Eagle Promotions Swan Plant Services Ltd the top golf courses. There are also Elmwood College Symbio workshops on a wide variety of sub- European Turf Technology Talbot Farm Landscapes jects from golf course design, plants Ltd Ltd and soil science to machinery main- European Turfgrass Teg Environmental Laboratories tenance and computing for Textron Golf Turf And greenkeepers. Evenproducts Ltd Specialty Products Farm & Garden The Association of Golf Machinery Club Secretaries The Golf Sign Company GPS Services Ltd Til Irrigatoin Ltd Exhibitor benefits and Why not send me an email, and Gambetti Barre UK Ltd Til Irrigatoin Ltd (Hydro) details of stand bookings I'll place you into our exclusive Garfitts International Ltd Tildenet Ltd Gem Professional BTME address book. I can then Tonick Watering Ltd Geosynthetic Technology Once you have booked your stand, the keep you up-to-date with the very Toro Commercial extra benefits you will receive are: Products latest BTME news and events. Golf Car UK Ltd

Why exhibit? Tower Sport (Europe) Ltd • Free 100 words entry into the BTME Send your email to: The BIGGA Turf Management Greenlink International catalogue with optional company logo [email protected] Trelleborg Wheel Exhibition (BTME) is the largest Groundsman Industries Systems • Free 100 words entry on the BIGGA Trimax Mowing Systems indoor show of its kind in Europe Ltd website with your contact details and a attracting thousands of key decision True-Surface Rollers makers from the turfcare and golf hyperlink to your website Hayter UK Ltd course/club industry every year. • Preferential advertising rates in Headland Amenity Hunter Grinders Ltd Attendance figures increase dramat- Greenkeeper International and the Turf Seed UK Ltd ically year on year with a record 25% BTME catalogue Turfgrass Services increase achieved for the 2001 show. Irrigation Control Ltd International Ltd • Free Exhibitors manual and BTME John Deere Turfmech Machinery Ltd A comprehensive education pro- catalogue John Greasley Ltd Tyre-Line Original gramme and series of interesting Equipment Ltd • Free stand cleaning John Hinton Associates Verde Sports Ltd seminars is always in place to attract Kawasaki Motors (UK) visitors in their droves, and with • All full shell scheme stands include the Ltd Vitax Ltd BIGGA membership always on the following: Facia Board, Carpet tiles, Ken White Signs Waste 2 Water increase, the show is certainly set to melamine wall panels. Kestrel Golf White Horse Contractors Ltd grow year on year. Kubota (UK) Ltd Whitemoss Amenities Ltd L S Systems Wiedenman UK Ltd Lastec UK Ltd Wolf Garden Lewis Equipment Ltd Yamaha For the very latest BTME2002 news and event information visit: www.bigga.org.uk Lincmaster Thief Stoppers York & Martin UPDATE UPD47* BIGGA's Membership Services Officer, ASSISTANT GREEA/jq^ o- Tracey Maddison, welcomes almost 80 new Membership members to the Association and highlights some interesting facts regarding Direct Debit Profile ^vodfi aivado ^ ^imsissv

Usually the spotlight falls on the Course Manager or Head Do you do it by Direct Debit? Greenkeeper at a Club. Now it is the turn of those BIGGA now operate a Direct Debit whose work often goes unheralded to star. scheme, offering members the opportunity to spread their payments STOP PRESS over 10 months rather than having to find their membership fee in one BIGGA now have a brand new supply of waterproof suits in stock. Sizes lump sum. This facility is available for available are Medium, Large, Extra Large all members, and extra application and Extra Extra Large and they are in forms are alwavrayss available from the navy and consist of a jacket with matching membership department, here at trousers with a drawstring waistband. BIGGA HOUSE. Contact the Membership Department for more details or to make an order. Did you know... Tel: 01347 833800 Email: [email protected] • Usage of Direct Debit has grown fourfold over the last ten years. The Direct Debit mandate form is your Bank or Building Society, but • Almost 32 million people in the UK now use Direct Debit. very easy to complete, as you can see don't forget to send BIGGA a copy so from the example below: they can update their files. However, • People pay an average of six bills by Direct Debit. if you do cancel your membership What do I do if I already halfway through your membership Name: Richard Love • To use the Direct Debit Scheme, a customer must usually hold a current pay by Direct Debit? year please contact BIGGA to advise account with one of the UK's Banks or Your payments will continue. them of this. Club: Kilmacolm GC Building Societies. However, BIGGA will send out a renewal pack with a MONTHLY INSTALMENT PLAN Position: Apprentice What is Direct Debit? renewal form approximately Direct Debit is a simple, safe and one month prior to your speedy way to pay regular bills and expiry date. Your renewal Age: 21 subscriptions automatically from form will be stamped as an your bank account. "Existing D/D Account" and 1. How long have you been a you will need to check all your greenkeeper? How do I set up a Direct details are correct and make Two and a half years Debit with BIGGA to pay my any changes necessary, complete the reverse part of membership fees? 2. What education are you You will need to obtain from the form regarding payment, currently undertaking? BIGGA, and then complete, a Direct ticking the box indicating that Finished Level 2 and 3 at GOSTA Debit Instruction and return it to you wish to continue with this over the winter BIGGA together with your method of payment, obtain a Golf Club stamp or some membership form. BIGGA currently 3. Which one task do you works with a company called other form of authorisation most enjoy doing? Premium Credit and will send your that you are a working Cutting approaches completed Direct Debit Instruction greenkeeper at the Club, sign to them to forward onto your bank and return to BIGGA. 4. Which one task do you authorising them to make payments most dislike doing? from your account to BIGGA. Your Can I cancel a D¡voting fairways payments will be spread over a 10 Direct Debit? month period and will commence on If you need to cancel the the 1st of the following month from Direct Debit, simply write to 5. What job other than your membership start date e.g. greenkeeping might you have ended up doing? Membership expiry date 31st May, Professional golfer therefore membership start date is June's Monthly Membership Draw Winner

1st June, Direct Debit will commence Just introduce one or more new greenkeeping members to 1st July mmà 6. Who has been the biggest BIGGA and your name will be placed into a draw to win a influence on your career? fantastic BIGGA sportswatch. Our congratulations go to Ronnie Bunting June's winner, Alexander Donaghy of Erskine GC. r. BIGGA welcomes ... 7. What would you do to Scottish Region Bryn Roberts, N Wales Kenneth A Bagnall, Surrey Northern Ireland Phil Sharp, BB&0 improve the life of a Mark Smith, Sheffield • Tony Brace, Surrey Charles E Worsfold, Kent greenkeeper? Ian Flint, North Martin Thompson, N Wales Richard A Constable, Surrey Gary Johnston Beter working conditions, pay and William C Hudson, East Stan Todd, N West Alan Elliott, Surrey Andrew Wray Student Members Michael A Mann, North Andrew Turner, N Wales Kenneth A Herbert, Surrey education Robert McCulloch, Ayrshire Paul S Wood, Northern Simon P Lambert, S Republic of Ireland Christopher Griffiths, N West Christopher Pryde, West Matthew J Young, N Wales Jon Linscer, Í James Liversidge, Sheffield Martin R Smith, North Mark Logan, S Trevor Norris David McCaffrey, N Wales 8. What are your hobbies? David Sterricks, East Midland Region Gary A Rowe, Surrey Ross J Sullivan, Northern Golf and socialising Jamie Stewart, Surrey International Members Daniel Sullivan, Sheffield Northern Region Ian A Brown, E Midland Graham R Thatcher, Surrey Ben Bouchier, Midland Luke Thompson, Surrey Andrew J Turner, Midland Leon J Dalton, E Midland Willy Harder, Denmark 9. What do you get out of Philip T Bowler, N Wales Craig K Hallam, E Midland Darren Wales, Surrey Matthew N Chatterton, Dev & C'wall Chris Bryan, N Wales Daniel Hashie, BB&0 Golden Key Members Christopher Moran, N Ireland BIGGA? Phil R Collister, N West James E Hearn, BB&0 S West & S Wales Region Interesting magazine and golf days Mark Dineley, N West Andrew J Hill, BB&0 Tim Lawrence, AGC0 Ltd Philip J I'Anson, N Wales Lionel Jewkes, E Midland John Batchelor, S West Phil Evans, AGCO Ltd Peredur A Jones, N Wales Graham Partridge, E Midland David Baugh, S Coast 10. What do you hope to be Andrew W Jones, N Wales David B Pritchard, BB&0 Martin Frost, S West Associate Members doing in 10 years time? Ian Leversuch, Cleveland Peter D Stokes, E Midland Robert W Hughes, S Wales Greenkeeper Douglas W Neilson, N Wales Richard M Newton, S Wales Dr Mike Canaway, N West Working abroad, maybe on a golf Gavin J Parr, Northern South East Region William Owen, Dev & C'wall Phil Greenway, Midland Jamie Poole, N Wales Derek A Ross, S Coast David H Bates, Midland Stephen Reed, Cleveland Ronald K Ansall, Sussex Wyn Selby, S Wales Philip Newcombe, BB&0 Visit us online at www.bigga.org.uk

^GA ONLINE B/GG. BTME2002 will be upon us all too soon, and here at BIGGA Q 0» we're aiming to provide the most up-to-date information to both Web Watch J visitors and exhibitors with a brand new BTME microsite ... btme.org.uk: What a site for an exhibition!

Each January in Harrogate, BIGGA hold their annual Turf Management Exhibition (BTME). EMAIL With an extremely diverse range of visitor, ranging from the fine turf pro- ROUNDUP fessional right through to the golf shop pro, we must always ensure that the information produced for such an Got a question to ask or have some information or all-encompassing event can encapsu- comments to pass on? late every aspect of the show, whilst Contact us via email at the holding the attentions of each spe- relevant address below. cialised visitor group. With that in mind, we are current- Membership Services ly developing a brand new BTME [email protected] 'microsite' within the already familiar BIGGA website. Accessible for Education & Training both exhibitors and visitors alike, the [email protected] new microsite will contain specific information for both categories of Editorial/PR website visitor, which will make for [email protected] an informative and enriching web experience, containing updated exhi- Sales & Marketing bition news 24 hours a day. [email protected] Organising the largest and most and comments we receive from successul fine turf exhibition and • Company names BTME delegates, visitors and Finance/Accounts [email protected] education conference in Europe, has • Contact names exhibitors, ana firmly believe that the galvanised our commitment to pro- spread of information by traditional • Contact numbers viding both visitors and exhibitors print methods can continue to be Media Services with the most up-to-date information • Email links enhanced by digital means through [email protected] possible, and the new BTME • Web hyperlinks the internet and email. microsite will be a breeding ground • Hall location Website If you are interested in receiving details [email protected] of information about next year's • Stand location event, and with the power of the when the new BTME microsite launches, • Company profile and product internet, can, and will be updated as please send an email to: General enquiries details for each exhibitor [email protected] and include [email protected] soon as news becomes available. the word 'update1 in the subject field. Already a succesful feature on the The brand new site is set to be microsite's parent site, a customisable launched later this month, and will email request form will be available be accessible from the familiar hyper- for all BTME web-visitors to fill in. link on the BIGGA parent website By using this facility, visitors can ask (www.bigga.org.uk), but will now also to be kept informed of the very lat- have its' own website address of jLYJi yyy est exhibition news and event www.btme.org.uk information via email. An extremely This will enable faster access of spe- cl useful feature if you don't have the cific BTME information for both spare time to surf the microsite every- visitors and exhibitors alike, but will day, and would rather just have a look help maintain the inherent links on Jirs when specific information is available. under the umbrella of the BIGGA Another feature planned for the parent website. Visit www*bissa+ors*iik and check out the BTME site is a mini-exhibition direc- Every year, we are continually latest chat from the greenkeeping industry tory which will contain; encouraged by the positive feedback

The finest turf from tee to green

Medallion turf for golf tees is typically sown as Aberelf (Perennial Ryegrass) 25%, Bargreen (Chewings Fescue) 20%, Barcrown (Slender Creeping Red Fescue) 35%, Limousine (Smooth Stalked Meadow Grass) 20%.

All the cultivars we use are highly ranked in independent testing by the STRI (see "Turfgrass Seed 2001" published by STRI).

If rapid establishment, high wear tolerance and slow regrowth after mowing are important to you - specify Rolawn Medallion for your tees. Rolawn® For a quote, sample and peace of mind BRITAIN'S FINEST TURF call Rolawn on Tel: 01904 608661 www.rolawn.co.uk Above: Paul Smith prepares to welcome Tiger and his colleagues Left: The familiar Royal Lytham Clubhouse taken by Philip Medcalf Right: A commemorative plaque in honour Bobby Jones

12 Greenkeeper International July 2001 Royal Lytham and St Annes has a Championship history which is second to none, but for this year the course will have been prepared by a man in charge for his first major Championship ... A NEW MAN AT THE

Royal Lytham and St Annes Golf British Open and both British Club is a Rolls Royce among Amateur ladies' and men's Championship venues. There is bare- Championships - but he had presided ly a significant event in golf which over a finishing school whose Old Boys hasn't visited the north west coast are now Head Greenkeepers at some course and it can always be guaran- of the biggest and best clubs in the teed to produce a worthy winner ... area. Tony Jacklin, Gary Player and Seve Paul was one of these, being Jimmy's *m Ballesteros spring readily to mind. First Assistant when the Open was last So when the Open Championship played at Lytham in '96, before he left returns later this month we can expect to add management to his greenkeep- IP , more of the same. Nothing much ing credentials with a spell as Course l mm./ changes at Royal Lytham, certainly Manager at Furness Golf Club. not for the worse. Incidentally, many of those Old Boys There is one difference this year, return during Open week to add their however. A significant one, but one considerable expertise and experience which to many may only become to Lytham's own team. apparent when they see a young man "They will be rolling, cutting and standing a few yards from the soon- cutting and I'm certainly looking for- to-be-crowned Open Champion at the ward to having them with me for the presentation table on the 18th green week," said Paul. Above: Paul (centre) with the rest of the Royal Lytham greenkeeping team around 6pm on Open Sunday...no So what thoughts will be going play-off permitting. through his head when he walks out and I'm sure I'll feel quite emotional which it was closed because of frost For the Open Champion it will be a onto the 18th green with the new when it happens. I'll definitely have to and snow. thrilling moment, the culmination of Open Champion? pinch myself. "The Fylde plane is relatively flat a lifetime's endeavour ... or perhaps "Ideally I'd like all my staff to be "I always set myself high, but achiev- anyway and typically the water table even the sixth consecutive Major with me but I know that's not possi- able, targets so I always thought that comes close to the surface but this win- Championship and the third leg of the ble. I know I shall be very proud of one day I might be in the position." ter it was quite literally at the surface. mythical Grand Slam, while for new my own achievements and very proud The pride will also, no doubt, be We were continually pumping water, Head Greenkeeper, Paul Smith, it will ot the staff's achievements," mused tinged with relief after preparations for in vain really, but we felt we had to signal the end of months of prepara- Paul, as we talked in his office, some the Championship were complicated make the effort," explained Paul, who tion and hard work and confirmation six weeks before Open week. by a couple of nerve testing episodes added that he was also aware of the that he is the worthy successor to one "It will be a tremendous highlight of near Biblical proportions - flooding need for a "tread sofdy" approach to of greenkeeping's own legendary fig- which would have had Noah's ances- using machinery on the course when ures. tors dusting off their work tools and it was closed. Paul's predecessor Jimmy the Foot and Mouth Epidemic, which "To have the course closed for such MacDonald MBE, had been there and would have had Paul seriously ques- a long time is unheard of and this was done that in greenkeeping over the 26 tioning what he'd done to deserve just mv second winter here," he added years he was Head Greenkeeper. Not such a headache, but which ultimate- ruefulfy only had he prepared Lytham for some ly remained a safe distance away. The complications this introduced of its biggest Championships - four The flooding caused the course to to The Open planning meant Paul had Opens, a Ryder Cup, a Curtis Cup, be closed for a total of 40 days because to be adaptable, a skill he honed while four British Senior Opens, a Women's of it - in addition to the 16 davs for at Furness when he had to learn how «, t -

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Above: Spectators won't miss a putt, thanks to the high vantage point the seating affords Below: Lowering in the specialised seating units is a precise business • & M^-i so* l :h u- & Right: A green surrounded by some of Royal Lytham's formidable bunkers

best to maximise his resources, both the general condition of the golf course human and financial. will be the mark that I leave on the "I had laid down schedules but those 2001 Open - although that's not to went out the window and it was a case say there won't be room for improve- of prioritising what I thought were the ment. essential jobs to do ana undertake "I'm my own worst critic and there them when possible as well as target- are a million and one things that I see ing the drier areas of the course." every day that I'd like to act upon but Surprisingly, considering the amount it's a job of prioritising. There are only of standing water on the course, there so many hours in the day." were no lasting problems, at least not Indeed the golf course itself will also on the main playing areas. not be significantly different from the "There are some areas which we had one which faced Tom Lehman five to turf late on in the spring which years ago although remarkably the haven't quite recovered but these course which boasts the most bunkers haven't been in play." on the Open Championship rota has • it t ml, \ WM The golf course will not be present- added to its armoury ed markedly differently from the '96 "We now have 197 bunkers and in Open. my time here we have added one to "I don't have any particular style the left hand side of the 15th. Stan ideas for presentation and condition- Eby of European Golf Design, under- ing other than those based on sound takes course architectural alterations," links philosophy I'd like to think that explained Paul. The last Lytham Open m • • • 'tt- m • «1 V"* • f 1 • • <. • • . • . •, - ; • - - - • . • 'v : i ':4 , • V, . r' î fi ' • M > -i&n -\l <- , A* ' , - s WÎ i»^ * * t. \j y t y ) ^ t., * " : y ; ; \ ; . m>

featured 185 of the blighters and they in for the Lytham Trophy when we increased greatly, Paul is thankful that "I think one of the benefits of the were found by a total of 1618 balls were changing holes and he pointed he has an innate ability to switch off winter we have suffered is that we've during the four days of the out a few spots which I hadn't con- when he gets home of a night. not had the amount of play we'd nor- Championship, a record which kept sidered. I've always tried to switch on "I think I'm fortunate because it's a mally have and we've come into spring the BIGGA Greenkeeping Support to his, and other, knowledge and way genetic thing. I also try to keep myself with pretty good sward coverage." Team busy! of thinking. I do selectively utilise oth- on the one level all the time not get- While in a bizarre way the weather 'Apart from that there are very few er people's ideas and this, allied to my ting too negative or too positive about helped in this regard, Paul is looking changes to the course, although it may own academic achievements and expe- things. I don't think you'd be too suc- for help over the next few weeks to be a little more forgiving in places in rience, is the key to success." cessful in this profession if you were ensure the world's finest players face terms of set-up." Jimmy told Paul that he was aware thin skinned." typical links conditions when they Following in the footsteps of some- that whoever got the job would make Having said that, he hasn't particu- arrive at the course. one like Jimmy MacDonald could changes and, while saying that the larly needed a thick skin during his "Firm to hard and hard in places," have been a daunting experience but hand over was seamless, there are dif- recent spell at the Club. he says in a manner which suggests its Paul takes nothing but positives for ferences in their approaches to the job. "The Chairman is the model a links land mantra that he has been the fact that he has someone of "Jimmy was very much a people's Chairman and the Secretary has been hearing ever since his greenkeeping Jimmy's experience to call upon. person and I'd like to think I am as very helpful to me, while the mem- career began. "We speak a lot on the phone and well. I like to encourage active, con- bers, in general, have been very If that is achieved he will be a proud he says it will be a proud moment from structive opinions from the people I appreciative of the course condition man indeed as he stands at that pre- him when he's sitting up in the stand work with. I think that's important over the last few months." sentation table. watching the golf this time. because, in a positive way, it means Unlike the last two Opens at "I know it was a massive wrench for that all potential angles are covered." Carnoustie and St Andrews Paul has- Jimmy when he retired and I'm sure While accepting that the pace of life n't introduced artificial aids to protect he must miss the place but he popped in general and stresses in work have the fairways. (CONQUEROR MKJJ The Groundsmajor RoIIermower

The Allett Conqueror combines impressive work rate, total stability on banks and the ability to cut long grass cleanly, even in wet conditions • Hydrostatic transmission • Wide wheel base and ATV type rear tyres gives great traction and stability • 16HP twin cylinder engine •7" diameter, heavy duty cutting cylinders From the top of the range 17000 Groundsmajor RoIIermower to the versatile MR150 these machines AZTEC cater for the needs of all groundsmen. The Allett Aztec is a superb pedestrian cylinder mower ideal for maintaining golf greens. A range of fully floating hydraulic attatchments are available in both 20" and 24" widths

• 6 or 10 bladed cylinders with or without Groomer • Scarifier, Verticut or Brush units available 1 Changed in seconds, no tools required 8 models offering • In-built back-lapping facility 5\6\8\12' &17' cutting widths Cutting height ranges fix» m 1/2" to 10" (10 to 260mm) Allett Mowers Limited Baden Powell Road, Kirkton Industrial Estate MAJOR EQUIPMENT LTD Arbroath, Scotland DD11 3LS Phone: 01524 850 501 iafo Tel: 01241 873841 Fax 01241 877419 Fax.: 01524 850 502 www.inajor grasscare.com Email: [email protected] www.allett.co.uk e-mail: [email protected]

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Court Lodge Farm, Kenward Road • Yalding, Maidstone Kent ME 18 6JP Tel: 01622 812103 . Fax: 01622 815534 www.lastec.com Pound to a penny, a golfer will have some excuse relating to the tee's surface for a poorly played shot. The object of the exercise is to make sure that tee presentation is top rate. Roland Taylor takes a look at the many ways in which a greenkeeper can achieve this ... Time for

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The dictionary definition of a tee is - from a given number of club lengths increase in players and demand for all- Above: Preparation work goes on during a cleared spot from which the ball is from the previous hole. Evidence indi- year-round facilities. Heavy traffic on a the Benson and struck at the beginning of each hole. It cates that formal tees first appeared in relatively small area plays havoc with Hedges International is the words cleared spot' that sound the records in the last years of the compaction and this, combined with at the De Vere Belfry a discord when it comes to modern 1800s. poor drainage, does not bode well for greenkeeping. However, this statement On many of the older courses, tees a resilient turf cover. It takes a lot of becomes clearer when taken in the con- were down the list when it came to pri- abuse. The design required a tee to be text of the history of the game. orities and today this has resulted in a elevated and often no account was tak- Originally there were no actual tees and number of problems. They were not en of mowing the banking which results the rules stated that the ball be struck designed to accommodate today's in labour-intensive methods having to tee.Time fors

Below: Various attachments can be added using the cassette method

be used to keep them looking good. When it comes to mowing there are a number of choices, the most favoured system being cylinder mowing and col- lecting the clippings. A mower with a fairly high rate of cuts per metre is ideal and there are plenty of different cutting widths available to suit specific requirements. In recent years there have been a number of units introduced that use a basic power source to which either cassettes or attachments can be added. They're usually a choice of cylinder mower units with various numbers of blades plus the advantage of being able to fit other turfcare equipment such as verticutters, scar- ifiers and aerators. These machines BEAGLE PROMOTIONS

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are ideal for tee maintenance as they banking, either in the form of a hov- can be easily transported with a range er mower or wheeled model. For very of attachments by trailer or utility awkward areas it may be necessary to vehicle. When considering this type use a hand-held strimmer and the of system, the important feature to backpack versions are especially look out for is the time taken and worth considering for these types of tools required changing from one locations. piece of kit to another. Some only On large tees the fairway style of take less than a minute. unit can be used, especially if they Dare one suggest that the roller pro- have collection facilities. There are a pelled rotary mowers that are now number of smaller triple ride-on available could be considered for use mowers now available using either as an alternative mower for some cylinder or rotary cutting units and tees? These have the added advan- some of these have been specifically tage that they also pick up any leaves1 designed with tees in mind, especial- or other debris. It should be pointed ly where banking is involved. out that if this cutting system is used If new tees are being considered, the blade needs to be kept very sharp. how they are going to be cost effec- The rotary principle is suitable for tively mown needs to be addressed at .Time for

Give your tees a clean edge with a variety of products on offer

the point of planning. This will avoid A number of edging machines are to a particular hole, one that he hopes a lot of problems tnat could occur now available that would be ideal for he will not fall into - his action can after they have become established. this job. These generally use a verti- make or break what follows out on Cutting heights on tees is impor- cal-mounted blade that operates in the course. Certainly on the first tee tant, bearing in mind the volume and conjunction with an edging guide, there can be an element of fear and concentration of traffic using them. either the wheels or rollers set to the trepidation plus there is often an The leaf cover needs to be kept depth of cut. As they are not self-pro- audience of other players waiting to high so the plants can gain as much pelled the operator can gauge his tee off. The tee is the one point where nutrient as possible through photo- walking speed to obtain the best fin- golfers cannot blame the results of synthesis. Somewhere between ish. This method of edging certainly their play on the condition of the 6-13mm is the suggested scale. speeds up the operation considerably. playing surface. Why? Because the Bunker surrounds are another area It is easy to dismiss the role of tees. ball is on top of a plastic or wooden that will need special aiiention when Generally they are the first sight the peg a few centimetres above the turf it comes to mowing. Rotaries have ers have of a course, so their up- and the only time in the game when already been mentioned in respect of SA) and general appearance are it is not in direct contact with the any banking but often there is a lip important as they say a lot about the turf. Pound to a penny there will be or edge that will need to be kept rest of the course and how it is main- some excuse relating to the tee's sur- trimmed. This could be done with a tained. face for a poorly played shot, so the •air of edging shears but this is like- From a golfer's point-of-view, the object of the exercise is to make sure Sly to be a long labour-intensive tee is the starting point of a trip into the presentation is top rate. There is operation if there are a several bunker the unknown, certainly mentally and plenty of equipment on the market surrounds to be trimmed. often physically. It is his introduction to help achieve this, plus save time. >PTO DRIVEN SWEEPER WESSEV COLLECTORS Ideal for Golf Courses, / 'J.2/;J'¿ 'J .ixij Ma ; g Schools, andPrivat Privatee Estat Estatee jvidib° i Maintenance / aJJJS / iüisb

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The faster way to topdress and groom your greens and fairways

Topdress and rub-in on the same pass!

14 individual brushes for a superb finish Greens Groomer The Greens Groomer will quickly rub-in topdressing, groom give a more uniform cut on your fairways and a faster surface your turf and control grain. Its 14 separate brushes gently move on your greens. And for even quicker fairway coverage, the wet or dry sand in all directions, thoroughly rubbing it in and IT triple gaTig^ersion is in a class of its own! filling aeration holes without scuffing or bruising the turf. Use it to disperse dew and wormcasts, or before mowing to Phone OreenTeh for a FREE DEMONSTRATION INNOVATIVE TURF CARE MACHINERY DESIGNED TO SAVE YOUR TIME! TEXTRON Steve Gingell undertakes a review of the range of grasses commonly found on golf greens

Never before has there been such a range of different grass species and cultivars available to the Greenkeeper. This article seeks to clarify the usage of different grasses on greens and evaluates a number of new developments.

Traditionally speaking it is one of natures colonisers in the (bents and fescues) annual form and a survivor in the Traditionally, greens have been sown perennial form "reptans". with 80% fescue: 20% bentgrasses (by It is important to note that the desir- weight) with the aim of eventually able bent and fescue grasses producing comparable amounts of predominate in the wild where one these species in the sward. The seed- finds dryish soils, conditions of low ing mixture ratio is due to the nutrient availability and sometimes differences in seed weight between the extremes of pH. So why don't bents tiny bentgrass and the much larger and fescues survive as well as Poa fescue. An even mix of the sown grass- annua in a golf green? Probably es is, however, unlikely for a variety because Poa thrives in the conditions of reasons - not the least of which are we provide and the wear the turf is climatic influences. It is also worth subject to - it is an opportunist grass. noting that the fescue component ini- Certainly the conditions which ideal- tially dominates the sward although ly suit our quality grasses can be the slower establishing bentgrass soon difficult to manage ana do not always catches up. Throughout tne whole respond well to wear. Links courses lÉl^p establishment process, the risk of like St Andrews Old Course are tes- invading rogue grasses will prevail, tament to those desired, sandier, less particularly if early excessive wear or fertile conditions and provide stun- inappropriate management prevails. ning greens of quality grasses as a consequence of appropriate manage- Poa annua ment. Poa annua is a serious problem for To combat Poa annua the answer is many Greenkeepers. The reasons for to carefully control fertiliser and water the domination of Poa annua are com- inputs to greens and reduce to a min- plex, but are usually related to open imum where cover is maintained for swards during the main flowering sea- the wear experienced. The water- son of May-July (although flowering logged areas where Poa proliferates in occurs throughout the year). contrast to bents found in the drier Undoubtedly excess inputs of water regions indicate to a Greenkeeper the and fertiliser also encourage Poa preferred conditions for bentgrass. annua. It would be a brave person to Actions should always be taken to suggest that good maintenance prac- reduce winter water-logging by recon- tices alone will reduce Poa annua as struction, drainage etc. if you are ever to develop and sustain the desirable ately after the bentgrass seeding if Ryegrass of the Open Days or training events bents and maybe fescue grasses. Just poor soil temperatures prevail. This (Lolium perenne) provides an opportunity to visually as important will be aeration and often means that the best time to An interesting trial at the Berkshire see the performance or the various thatch control practices at appropri- ensure success from bentgrass seeding College of Agriculture Greenkeeping species and their cultivars. ate times. is between )une and August. Certainly Academy has produced a very good the key is to establish a very dense golf green surface of ryegrass and red Seed mixes Sand dominated greens cover of bentgrass in the shortest pos- rescue. The new cultivars of ryegrass In a given seed mixture, each species Heathland, links and modern sand sible time. If a little Poa invades, this can tend to look a little like fescue at and cultivar will provide a set of fea- dominated greens invariably have the can be hand weeded. If take-all is certain times of the year and seem to tures to produce a sward that meets advantage of good drainage and less avoided and sufficient water is avail- be able to tolerate mowing heights of the intended usage. For example, a excesses of nutrients allowing swards able during germination, an excellent 4.5-5 mm. They are less susceptible dense sward with all-year-round rich in the favourable grasses to be sward can soon be developed. to disease, recover well from wear and greenness or a wide-ranging resis- grown. Nevertheless the sward must Creeping bentgrass can provide a have good year-round colour. Some tance to many turfgrass diseases. The be kept dense and any operations superb putting surface with some of Greenkeepers would not be able to use of the STRI Turfgrass Seed which will open up the sward, such as the new modern cultivars which are tell the difference between some very Booklet to check the variety of char- hollow tine aeration, should be timed also better able to deal with lower fine ryegrass cultivars and the fescue acteristics in a seeds mixture is an with overseeding and top dressing def- mowing heights. However, it will in a closely mown sward. While not invaluable tool in trying to develop initely outside of the main Poa require significantly different man- a current recommendation for greens, anticipated turf performance. flowering season. agement practices than native greens. we may have to eventually reconsid- Single species swards can be risky. The risks with sand dominated This includes a higher fertiliser input, er the use of ryegrass in certain If, for example, the species is partic- greens invariably come from con- strict control of thatch, disease con- situations, particularly if there are ularly susceptible to certain turfgrass structing one or two such greens trol and management. The use of this further significant improvements in diseases, then extensive damage amongst the remaining soil based species should be considered only future cultivars. could be caused or the need for exces- greens - in such scenarios the contrast with sand rich greens. sive application of fungicides. The in management requirement will test STRI cultivar trials inclusion of a mixture of cultivars or even the best Greenkeepers. Velvet bentgrass The STR1 undertakes extensive turf even a small amount of another Furthermore such "new" isolated (Agrostis canina) grass cultivar trials with the findings species may create a more robust sandy greens often prove a disap- Velvet bent provides an extremely published in the annual Turfgrass green. pointment, certainly from the grass dense and fine sward with outstand- Seed Booklet. This publication allows composition viewpoint. ing year-round colour. A possible comparison between cultivars and Overseeding disadvantage is that it can produce species commonly used on golf sur- There is a current popular approach Creeping bentgrass excessive thatch and thus regular ver- faces. It is therefore possible to check of overseeding Poa rich greens with (Agrostis stolonifera) ticutting is required. It is expensive to the main attributes of a seeds mix- bent only mixtures. The effect of this Invariably, creeping bent greens suc- purchase and often Greenkeepers will ture and cultivars, ensuring it strategy can be slow and in some cumb to Poa annua ingress. The Poa dilute it with a more traditional bent matches its intended usage. instances a waste of time and mon- problem sometimes starts immedi- or bent/fescue mix. A visit to the trials ground on one ey. Many factors come into play in A long established Poa-rich green showing bent overseeding success determining success, not the least of by mowers. Better to use a slit seed- American name, Kentucky blue- are small patches to extensive verti- which is the subsequent management er or broadcast following hollow grass. cutting on larger areas. after overseeding. To stand any coring and top dressing, when the Ryegrasses and Yorkshire fog Yorkshire fog is a particular prob- chance of success, the seed must be seed will end up off the immediate (Holcus lanatus, which is often a lem if it successfully miniaturises and sown when the soil temperatures are surface of the green. weed grass in greens) are relatively forms large spreading patches seem- high, i.e. late spring to summer, with straight-forward to identify. However, ingly smothering all in its wake. good water availability and a reason- Grass identification the new cultivars of ryegrass can be Again, verticutting is the best way to able time period before inclement It is important to be able to iden- confused with some fescues at the reduce this problem. weather sets in. Appropriate mainte- tify the grasses in your greens. This juvenile stage as both species can nance favouring the over-sown should be to at least genus level, e.g. have a red base. Certainly Yorkshire In conclusion grasses cannot be over-emphasised - Agrostis, but preferably being able to fog can look like bentgrass but check The management of successful it is simply a waste of money to over- separate Agrostis tenuis from the leaf sheath which will have fine greens means the cultivation of the sow Poa annua with fine grasses and stolonifera and canina (browntop purple or red stripes. It is also more correct grasses. Undoubtedly it is eas- subsequently manage it to sustain the from creeping and velvet). The most hairy than bentgrass. ier to work with nature rather than Poa annua. straightforward identification (once There are many good grass identi- against it. This means choosing a Sometimes the inclusion of fescue, it is established) is via the ligule. A. fication books available, but your select number of species appropriate which is relatively quick to germi- tenuis is collar shaped, A. stolonifera Agronomist should be able to help to the green construction profile, nate, fine-leaved ana more resistant is broad peaked and A. canina very you identify the above grasses. subsequent management and envi- to many diseases common to both pointed. ronmental effects. The complete bents and annual meadow-grass, may, Fescues can be more difficult to Weed grasses management of a green needs to in certain cases, help the green adapt identify but there is less need to know Apart from Poa annua there are a question all operations and modify to a wider-range of influences. the differences between the various number of grasses able to withstand those which fail to encourage the There has been much debate on the red fescues such as Chewings and close cutting. The two worst weed desirable grasses. success of overseeding. Numerous slender creeping red fescue which grasses are perennial ryegrass (par- factors can contrive to hinder the form part of some golf greens. Poa ticularly coarse forms) and Yorkshire Steve Gingell is the STRI Regional establishment of the desired species. needs to be distinguished between fog. Ryegrass may spread from the Agronomist for the Thames Valley Region. Obviously the correct seed choice, annua and pratensis (annual and fairways and surrounds and quickly His knowledge of turf grasses comes from correct application and suitable con- smooth-stalked) as the latter some- experience in the field and through form coarse clumps of flattened grass. managing the construction of the ditions for germination will go a long times colonises greens and is a key These invariably seem to grow faster Greenkeeping Academy at Berkshire way towards success. The use of ingredient of some seed mixtures for than the surrounding green and can College. He can be contacted on 01344 broadcast seeding must be the least tees. Poa pratensis has a broad, blunt cause some unevenness on the sur- 884167. The rest of the STRI Agronomy effective ¿is much seed is removed leaf with a distinctive "blue" bloom face. Control is often difficult ranging team can be contacted on 01274 565131. from the surface by foot traffic and giving its occasionally used common E-mail: [email protected] or visit the website from some hand weeding where there www.stri.co.uk LearningEducation & Training for Professional Green keepers

As a member of the Greenkeepers Golf Course Managers should ensure Ken Richardson Training Committee, BIGGA is actively that their staff are trained to the high- Education and Training Manager, involved in raising the Standard of est standards, beginning by selecting a British and International Golf Greenkeeper Training. The range and training provider that meets the criteria Greenkeepers Association quality of training now available means laid down by the GTC. that there is a training course for every There is a clear link between education, Tel: 01347 833800 greenkeeper which should improve the training and economic success and if Email: [email protected] quality of greenkeeping and help to pro- you think that training is expensive Website: www.bigga.org.uk duce quality golf courses. then try ignorance.

The Greenkeepers Training Committee from National/Scottish Vocational the GTC. The quality of the delivery of (GTC) is continually striving to raise the Qualifications (N/SVQ's) to the more these awards by the network of GTC standards of Golf Course Maintenance academic Higher National Certificate Approved Training Providers is also and Management and they are totally (HNC)/National Diploma (ND)/Higher constantly monitored by the GTC. committed to ensuring that the range of National Diploma (HND) in Golf Course For up to date independent advice on qualifications are relevant to the Management and the Degree in qualifications, education and training Sportsturf sector and used by Employers Sportsturf Science. courses contact the GTC on:- for recruitment and by trainees for their The qualifications are continually under Tel: 01347 838640 own personal development. review by the National Training Email: [email protected] The Government endorsed awards range Organisation (NTO) in association with Website: www.the-gtc.co.uk GREENKEEPER TRAINING

ABINGDON AND WITNEY COLLEGE, Warren Farm Campus, Horton-cum-Studley, Oxford, Oxfordshire 0X33 1BY Contact: Alan Brown or John Revis Tel: 01865 351794 Fax: 01865 358931 Email: alan.browns abingdon-witney.ac.uk Website: www.abingdon-witney.ac.uk Information: Warren Farm Campus is the base for Abingdon and Wintney abingdoniwilney college Colleges education and training in Green keeping, Sportsturf, Amenity horticulture and allied land based courses for the whole of Oxfordshire. Courses include:- NVQ Levels 2&3 in Sportsturf. Decorative Horticulture and Hard Landscape. We also offer a range of short courses for the Industry including Health & Safety, pesticide training and chainsaw operation.

ASKHAM BRYAN COLLEGE, Askham Bryan, York, North Yorkshire Y023 3FR Contact: Central Admissions Tel: 01904 772211 Fax: 01904 772288 Email: [email protected] Website: www.askham-bryan.ac.uk Information: National Certificate in Horticulture, National Diploma in Horticulture (Turf Option), Higher National Diploma in Horticulture (Golf Management Option) all available full or part time. Block release courses: NVQ Level 2 Greenkeeping, NVQ Level 3 Greenkeeping and Sportsturf Maintenance, NVQ Level 4 Amenity Horticulture. Short courses: FEPA spraying, chainsaw and brushcutter courses.

BERKSHIRE COLLEGE OF AGRICLUTURE, Hall Place, Burchetts Green, Maidenhead, Berkshire SL6 6QR Tel: 01628 824444 Fax: 01628 824695 Email: [email protected] Berkshire College Website: www.bca.ac.uk Information: Full-time programmes - BTEC First & National Diploma. Part-time programmes - NVQ 2&3 Amenity Horticulture, Sports Turf (day and ^ of Agriculture block release). Short courses - Greenkeeping for gplfers, NPTC Chainsaw Competence Certificates, Spray Operators Training Courses.

BRINSBURY COLLEGE, Pulborough, West Sussex, Sussex RH20 1DL Tel: 01798 877400 Fax: 01798 875222 Email: [email protected] Website: www.brinsbury.ac.uk Information: FULL-TIME: BTEC National Diploma Horticulture (Greenkeeping option), BTEC First Diploma New Entrant Horticulture (Greenkeeping option), City & Guilds National Certificate Horticulture (Greenkeeping & Sportsground option), PART-TIME: NVQ3 Sports Turf Maintenance (Day release or work based), NVQ2 Amenity Horticulture (Greenkeeping & Sports Turf options), plus varied short courses including Chainsaw, Brushcutter/Strimmer, PA 1/PA2A/PA6A/PA9 etc.

BROOKSBY MELTON COLLEGE, Brooksby, Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire LE14 2LJ Contact: Ann Hurt/Jo Lees Tel: 01664 850850 Fax: 01664 855355 \I Brooksby Email: [email protected] Website: www.brooksbymelton.ac.uk Information: Situated on the A607 between Leicester and Melton Mowbray.Programmes \Melton College available include NVQ Level I, II, III & IV in Greenkeeping. Work based emphasis for all of these programmes. Short courses available in Arboriculture/Chainsaw work, TDLB training and Pesticide application training.

a CANNINGTON COLLEGE, Cannington Bridgwater, Somerset, TA5 2LS Contact: Terry Home Tel: 01278 655083 Email: [email protected] Website: www.cannington.ac.uk

n . " Information: BTEC Higher National Diploma in Sports Science (Golf Option). BTEC National Diploma in Sports Science (Golf Studies), Higher National Certificate Golf Course Lannington Col ICQC Management, BTEC First Diploma, BTEC National Diploma in Golf Course Management, BTEC Higher National Diploma Golf Course Management NVQ Level I and II Golf 15 Greenkeeping, NVQ Level III Greenkeeping and Supervisory Management, NVQ Level IV Greenkeeping Management, FEPA Training, Chainsaw Certification, Off-road Vehicle Certification, Greenkeeper Mechanics. Certificate in Irrigation (BTLIA) 1 week course; National Certificate in Golf Greenkeeping (1yr FT). Note: HND -2yr course HNC now 2 yr day release course.

EAST DURHAM and HOUGHALL COMMUNITY COLLEGE, Houghall, Durham, County Durham DH1 3SG Contact: Tony Milan Tel: 0191 386 1351 Fax: 0191 386 0419 Email: [email protected] k Website: www.edhcc.ac.uk Information: Full-time courses: National Certificate in Horticulture/Greenkeeping and Groundsmanship -1 year; National VvTÍ / Diploma in Horticulture Turf Option - 2/3 years. Part time courses:-Greenkeeping and Sportsturf maintenance NVQ Level 2 - Day Release. NVQ Level 3/4 Greenkeeping and y Sportsturf Maintenance Day Release. Short courses: FEPA Modules, Chainsaw certification, Tree inspection, Horticultural Machinery, Safe Lifting and First Aid.

HADLOW COLLEGE, Hadlow, Tonbridge, Kent TN11 OAL Contact: Nick Egan Tel: 01732 850551 Fax: 01732 853207 Email: [email protected] Website: www.hadlow.ac.uk Information: NVQ Level II and Level III Part-time Day Release with two periods of Block Release or evenings. Level II in Groundsmanship evenings. NVQ Level III Golf ìh Greenkeeping. BTEC First Diploma Sports Turf Management, BTEC National Diploma Sports Studies and BTEC First Diploma Sports Studies, National Diploma in Horticulture Hadlow (Sports Turf option). National Certificate: Sports Turf Management, National Diploma: Sports Turf Management, National Diploma Sports Studies, National Intermediate Diploma in Turf, Institute of Groundsmanship National Practical Certificate. Centres at Hadlow, Canterbury, Maidstone and Mottingham.

HARTPURY COLLEGE, Hartpury House, Gloucester, Gloucestershire GL19 3BE Contact: Sara-Jane Watkins Tel: 01452 702132 Fax: 01452 700629 Email: [email protected] Website: www.hartpury.ac.uk Information: Courses available: First Diploma Horticulture, National Certificate Horticulture, National Diploma Landscaping, First Diploma Greenkeeping, Certificate in Greenkeeping, National Diploma Greenkeeping, National Diploma Golf Studies, Modern Apprenticeships, Route 2 Work, NVQs available in Amenity GLOUCESTERSHIRE! Horticulture, Commercial Horticulture, Amenity / Turf, Amenity / Sportsturf, Decorative Horticulture, plus RHS General Examination, City & Guilds Certificate in Gardening, TDLB University of the West of England Assessor Awards and a full programme of amateur, leisure and day release courses.

MERRISTWOOD COLLEGE, Worplesdon, Guildford, Surrey GU3 3PE Contact: D I Rhodes Tel: 01483 884003 Fax: 01483 884001 Email: [email protected] Website: www.merristwood.ac.uk Information: Full time courses: National Certificate in Greenkeeping and Sports Turf Management, National Diploma in Greenkeeping & Sports A Turf Management. Part time courses:, NVQ Amenity Horticulture Level 2 and 3 in the work place - we come to you. NVQ Amenity Horticulture Sports Turf Maintenance Level 2, Merrist Wood NVQ Amenity Horticulture Sports Turf Maintenance Level 3 (afternoon/evening release). HNC Turf Science (afternoon/evening release). Various short courses throughout the year. t O t I f C. I Please contact us for up-to-date listings and information.

A rn , MYERSCOUGLNFORMAT,ONH COLLEGE: , Bilsborrow, Preston, Lancashire PR3 ORY Tel: 01995 642211/642222 Fax: 01995 642333 Email: [email protected] Website: www.myerscough ac uk VI VERARM L O H Ful1 time courses> BSc (Hon's) Turfgrass Science, HND Turf Science and Golf Course Management: ND Turf Science: NC Groundsmanship and Greenkeeping• First Diploma• Turf A v V V Vi Ö Science: NVQ LeV€l 2 N°W °ffer NVQ Level 4 GreenkeeP'nS Management delivered both in the work place and over the internet using the colleges new 'Mollnet System'. Also offer D32/D33 in College the work place. Part-time courses NVQ Level 2&3 Greenkeeping and Sports Turf Maintenance (Day/block release or Fast track work-based training qualification). HND Turf Science and Golf Course Management: HNC Turf Science: FEPA Short courses: Industry Training Support Course: Myerscough Turfgrass Foundation holds an annual conference and regular education seminars

NESCOT - North East Surrey College of Technology, Reigate Road, Ewell, Epsom, Surrey KT17 3DS Contact: Dr S Shaw Tel: 020 8394 3038 Email: info@nescot ac uk Website: www nescot.ac.uk Information: NVQ Levels I, II and III in Amenity Horticulture (Greenkeeping options) Training and assessment for the Greenkeepers Training Manual JVesccl Pesticides Application - Certificate of Competence. Part time, Day Release. Duration: Two years to Level II. FEPA Spraying Courses.

OAKLANDS COLLEGE, Oaklands Campus, Hatfield Road, St Albans, Hertfordshire AL4 OJA Contact: Ian Merrick Tel: 01727 737000 Fax: 01727 737752 Email: [email protected] Website: www.oaklands.ac.uk Information: Full time courses: National Certificate in Greenkeeping and Sports Turf Management Part-time courses: leading to NVQ Level 3 Greenkeeping, Modern Apprenticeships. Evening courses: leading to NVQ Levels 3 and 4. Short courses: Pesticide Chainsaw. '

PLUMPTON COLLEGE, Lewes, East Sussex BN7 3AE Contact: David BlackmurTel: 01273 890454 Fax: 01273 890071 Email: enquiries@plumpton ac uk JKSS Srïï Information: National Diploma in Amenity Horticulture (options in Landscaping and Sportsturf); National Certificate in Amenity Horticulture• First Diploma m Horticulture. Part- ,me courses: NVQ Level 1, Level 2 Amenity Horticulture in Decorative, Nursery, Hard Landscape and Sportsturf, level 3 Amenity in Decorative and Plumpton College Sportsturf, Level 4 Amenity. Also available are RHS General and Diploma and IOG National Technical and National Diploma (Int). Short courses are also available for FEPA

_ REASEHEATH JESS? Nantwich, Cheshire CW5 6DF Tel: 01270 625131 Fax: 01270 625665 Email: [email protected] Website: www.reaseheath.ac.uk Informa ion. Full time First Diploma Horticulture (Sportsturf Option) -1 year. National Diploma Horticulture (Sportsturf Option) - 2 years. BTEC Higher National Dioloma Golf COLLEGE Ma g e G0,i C 0UrS€ 0pen Learning 0pti0n NVQ Levels M ZZI^TShort courses. FEPAEKC Chemical Safety;ISZA Safe Lifting; Ti Chainsaws, Tt Off-Roadr h Vehicle Driving;Z First Aid.7 T f, ' ^keeping with Fastuvunuute Track^k^^S^S L This guide is not exhaustive and a full list of GTC approved training providers can be obtained from the GTC. The Greenkeepers Training Committee (GTC) are continually reviewing the approved status of colleges offering greenkeep- A guide to the colleges er training courses. This guide shows colleges offering courses to craft, supervisory and management levels. Anyone with a query regarding greenkeeper training should contact the Greenkeeper Training Committee at Aldwark Manor, and courses available Aldwark, Alne, York Y061 1UF, Tel: 01347 838640 or visit their website at http://www.the_gtc.co.uk

SPARSHOLT COLLEGE, Sparsholt, Winchester, Hampshire S021 2NF Contact: Ray Broughton Tel: 01962 776441 Fax: 01962 776587 Email: [email protected] Website: www.sparsholt.ac.uk Information: NVQ Level 2 Greenkeeping Practice, NVQ Level 3 Greenkeeping Supervision, City & Guilds Phase IV Management Studies, National SPARSH0LT Diplomas in Golf Course Management and Golf Studies,National Certificate in Greenkeeping and Sportsturf Management. GTC: Greenkeeping Certificate, GTC: Certificate in Golf COLLEGR* R\ I I C E C UH A M D ç U I D C Course Supervision, FEPA: Short courses, Chainsaws. Phase IV and NVQ Level 2 are offered on block release and day release. Full residential facilities available. Sparsholt college provides education and training in the land-based industries.

THE COLLEGE OF WEST ANGLIA, Milton Campus, Contact: Bob Young or Student Support at Kings Lynn on 01553 761144 Ext 271 Tel: 01223 860701 Information: The College of West Anglia offers a full range of courses for Greenkeepers including; NVQ Level 2 Sportsturf (Greenkeeping and Groundsmanship), NVQ Level 3 Sports Turf Maintenance. GTC Craft Certificate, GTC Certificate in Golf Course Supervision, TDLB Assessors awards. FEPA, Chain Saws, MOT. Other Courses: National and First Diploma in Horticulture and Garden Design.

¥ . WARWICKSHIRE COLLEGE, Royal Leamington Spa & Moreton Morrell, Moreton Morrell, Warwick, Warwickshire CV35 9BL Contact: Brian Cook Tel: 01926 318268 Warwickshire Email: [email protected] Information: Greenkeeping Courses: HNC Sports Turf & Golf Course Management (Day Release 2 year Programme); NVQ Level 2 & 3 Day I COLLEGE Release and Workbased Option (we come to you); two year ND in Horticulture with Turf Option; IOG Intermediate Diploma (evening class); Certificate in Turf Irrigation. Short Courses: Introduce your Committee to Turf Culture; Computing for the Greenkeeper; Various throughout the year - ring for details. FEPA; Chainsaw Certification; TDLB; First Aid. Also RHS General and Diploma, PAT, PA2A and PA6.

WRITTLE COLLEGE, Chelmsford, Essex CM1 3RR Contact: David Campbell Tel: 01245 424200 Fax: 01245 420456 Website: www.writtle.ac.uk Information: SPORTSTURF PROGRAMMES NVQ Level 2 - Sportsturf: NVQ Level 3 - Sportsturf Maintenance. NVQ Level 4 - Amenity Horticulture. HNC - Sportsturf Science. HND - Sportsturf and Golf Course Management. Other Programmes; First Diploma. National Certificate. National Diploma (with Sportsturf Option). BSc (Hons) Sportsturf Science and Management. BSc (Hons) WrittlCOLLEGeE Horticulture. BSc (Hons) Landscape and Amenity Management. MSc Landscape and Amenity Management. NVQ 2 and 3 Service Engineering. FEPA. Chainsaw. Tractor Driving

GREENMOUNT COLLEGE, Antrim, County Antrim BT41 4PU Contact: Declan Gallagher Tel: 028 94 426794 Email: [email protected] GREENMOUNT Website: www.greenmount.ac.uk Information: Day release courses to (a) GTC Certificate/NVQ Level II Greenkeeping and Sportsturf (b) GTC Certificate/NVQ Level III Golf Course COLLEGE Supervision National Diploma in Horticulture with Turf options FEPA, Health & Safety and a range of short courses.

TEAGASC COLLEGE, Teagasc College of Amenity Horticulture, National Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin, Dublin DUBLIN 9 Contact: Pat Suttle Tel: 00353 16376133 leagasc Fax: 00353 18040212 Email: [email protected] Website: www.teagasc.ie Information: Block release courses in greenkeeping providing Level III Certificates by the National Council of Vocational Awards. Level III Certificate in Golf Course Management. 3 year full-time course. National Council for educational awards a National Diploma in Horticulture (Greenkeeping specialistion)

Elmwood College, Cupar, Fife KY15 4JB Contact: Huw Parry Tel: 01334 658842 Fax: 01334 658888 Email: [email protected] Information: Full time National Certificate, Block Release following SVQ Level II and GTC training manual. SVQ level III Block Release and Outreach available with SVQ level IV elmwood coming soon. HNC/HND Golf Course Management available as full time, block release and distance learning. Professional development awards for football and cricket available by I COLLEGE both Block Release and Outreach. FEPA and COSHH, chainsaws, tree climbing and rescue techniques and Health and safety short courses also available. Û GOSTA TRAINING LTD, Unit 5E Clydeway Centre, 45 Finnieston Street, Glasgow G3 8JU Contact: Chris Bothwell Tel: 0141 248 2772 Fax: 0141 248 2453 Email: [email protected] Information: SVQ 1-4 and Modern Apprenticeship in all options. Attendance by day/block/evening or distance learning. From z November/March Short Courses include Pesticide, Chainsaw, First Aid, Abrasive Wheels, Manual Handling, Fire Extinguisher and Assessor training. Consultancy covering Noise Assessment, Site Risk Audits, Machinery Permit to Use, COSHH, Health and Safety Policy. J H • LANGSIDE COLLEGE, Rutherglen Campus, Buchanan Drive, Rutherglen, Glasgow G73 3PF Contact: Colin S Urquhart Tel: 0141 647 6300 O Email: [email protected] Information: SVQ, SGA, HNC, HND. Full time and part-time courses in Greenkeeping, Groundsmanship, y li Golf Course Management, Horticulture, Land and Environment and Applied Ecology. Short courses for land-based industries including Risk Assessment and Pesticides. Ml

OATRIDGE AGRICULTURE COLLEGE, Ecdesmachan, By Broxburn, West Lothian, Edinburgh EH52 6NH Contact: Steve Miller Tel: 01506 854387 Fax: 01506 853373 Email: [email protected] Information: HNC In Golf Course Management (Part-time): Full-time National Certificate in Greenkeeping and Sportsturf Management: SVQ Level II and GTC Manual (Day and Block Release): SVQ Level III Sportsturf (Day and Block Release) SVQ Level III in Ground Care Machinery, full range of I Amenity Horticulture, Landscaping and other land based subjects at HNC, National Certificate and SVQ Levels; Short Course - FEPA, Chainsaw, Forklift, First Aid.

PENCOED COLLEGE, Pencoed, Bridgend, Cardiff CF35 5LG Contact: Paul Discombe/John Sullivan Tel: 01656 302672 Fax: 01656 302601 Email: [email protected] . j M ! i » Website: www.bridgend.ac.uk Information: Courses:- NVQ Greenkeeping and Sportsturf Levels 1-3, HND in Turf Management in conjunction with the University of Glamorgan. (A irrmiiK Short Courses - include Presticides Application, Chainsaw Operation, Machinery Maintenance plus many others. Outreach NVQ II & III in the workplace. Pencoed College is Prm<*J Cfl/if'f — conveniently situated between Cardiff and Swansea J35 on the M4. IM•MA H K < Coleg Garddwriaeth CymrU WELSH COLLEGE OF HORTICULTURE, Northop Mold, Flintshire CH7 6AA Contact: Graham Wright Tel: 01352 841034 Fax: 01352 841031 Email: [email protected] £ ¿S> Website: www.wcoh.ac.uk Information: Full-time - Higher National Deiploma in Turf Management. Part-time - Day release Higher National Certificate in Turf Management. Block Week - NVQ Amenity Sportsturf Levels 2-3. Briefing Days - NVQ Level 4, TDLB Assessor Courses D32, 33, 34. Day Courses - FEPA, Chainsaw Certification, First Aid, C.I.E.H. atflegeof Horticulture Greenkeeper International

BIGGA Golf Directory

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Education and Training

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Personal Discounts Social Activities For further details, contact Tracey Maddison, BIGGA Membership Services Officer British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association, BIGGA HOUSE, Aldwark, Alne, York Y061 1UF Tel: 01347 833800 Fax: 01347 833801 [email protected]

ET HORTICULTURE AT BCA ft Enjoy your greens? elmwood Our horticultural programmes make full use of our excellent SVQ level ll/lll Greenkeeping extensive facilities and technical expertise to open the door to the wide range of exciting career opportunities S^^^ SVQ Level IV Greenkeeping within the horticultural industry and professions. Pr^ HNC/D Golf Course Management Our landscaped grounds, gardens, retail centre, glasshouses and dedicated workshops provide ample opportunities for NC Greenkeeping practical work and the development of specialist skills. The range of horticultural programmes include specialisms BNC Golf Studies to prepare you for employment at various levels, or for progression to higher education. HNC Golf Facilities Management

Programmes: I First Diploma in Horticulture (1 year) I National Diploma in Horticulture (2years sandwich) I National Certificate in Horticulture (1 year) I National Certificate in Horticulture, specialising in Garden Design (1 year/part-time) I NVQ Amenity Horticulture, Sports Turf Maintenance, Levels 2 & 3 (part-time)

Excellent resources include a six hole greenkeeping academy, extensively landscaped grounds, dedicated workshops, fine plant collection, retail centre and glasshouses. We are a BIGGA approved centre. BCA, Hall Place, Burchetts Green, All courses available Full-time, Stock Release, Maidenhead, Berkshire SL6 6QR T 01628 824444 F 01628 824695 WCA and Distance Learning W www.berks-coll-ag.ac.uk Quality Training for Leisure For further details Tel. 01334 658856 or E [email protected] & Landbased Industries [email protected] Mark Hunt gives some useful advice when it comes to planning your greens fertiliser regime Fertility RIGHTS (NOT WRONGS)^ Seldom a year goes past without the introduction of new products or new concepts in fertilisation for the sports-turf market. For greenkeepers and Course Managers, the choice is bewildering. Can these products really provide the improvements they seek or are they just fads, - here today, gone tomorrow?

To begin to answer this question, we These points all have a bearing on the Liquid fertilisers, as must first look at the basic principles amount of nutrient required in anyone the name suggests are that underpin the usage of fertilisers on year. For example, smaller greens with just that, liquid forms golf courses and the factors that need less pin positions tend to concentrate of nutrients, mixed into to be taken into account. wear and place more stress on the a spray tank and then If I was starting at a new course and sward. applied to the turf was kx)king to put together a greens If fertility is lacking, the sward densi- fertiliser regime for the coming season, ty mav suffer, allowing encroachment these are some (but not all) of the of undesirable grasses and weeds, so it details I would consider in order to follows that these types of green will 'shape' my thinking; require more nutrient than larger ones. Similarly rootzone characteristics dic- • Size and design of greens and associated tate nutrient demands. Take for wear patterns • Construction and rootzone characteristics. example a modem USGA specification Are all greens the same? (Unlikely), are green with a high percentage sand- there a mixture of types/ages of greens? based rootzone - This has low nutrient • Thatch levels, any signs of anaerobic retention and over the growing season, conditions, drainage and percolation will need a higher fertiliser input, com- characteristics. • Grass species present, sward density, pared to a soil based green. root development. In addition, such greens will also • Soil nutrient levels, pH, nutrient require a higher nutrient input from retention, etc September to March. During mild • Planned events, aeration, tournaments, etc spells of winter weather, the sand • Machinery, labour and budget availability warms up, initiating growth, which Fertility RIGHTS or /

There are many different types of fertiliser available for many different uses and application methods

requires nutrition, but because there is - solid, soluble or liquid. may be derived from sulphate of ammo- little holding capacity in the rootzone Solid fertilisers include granular, nia, ammonium nitrate or urea, or a - nutrients have to be supplied. To prilled and powdered products and are combination of some or all of these. ignore this simple fact on this type of usually applied through a pedestrian The source of the nutrient will influ- construction is a quick route to a weak spreader. ence how the fertiliser 'works', that is sward,- consistently thinning out over Soluble fertilisers normally consist of to say how quickly it is available to the the winter, prone to disease (because it water-soluble powder or prilled prod- plant, how long it will last, it's effect on is under stress) and one which takes ucts, which are dissolved in a spray tank pH, it's potential to scorch and so on. longer to regain strength and density and then applied to the turf. the following spring. Liquid fertilisers, as the name suggests Analysis isn't everything On soil-based greens, nutrient reten- ¿ire just that, liquid forms of nutrients, Just looking at the analysis of a fer- tion is better, due to their higher organic mixed into a spray tank and then tiliser tells us little about what to expect matter content and during mild spells applied to the turf. when we apply it. Take the following of weather, retained nutrients are made example. I nave two bags of fertiliser, available to the plant. That is not to Nutrient sources they both have the same analvsis on say that soil-based greens do not require Fertilisers are normally made up of the label - 8+0+0. This tells me that autumn/winter fertiliser, but just a low- different combinations and ratio's of 8% of the bag contents is nitrogen, - er level. major nutrients, usually nitrogen, phos- but what does it tell me about how the Fertiliser applications made may vary phorus and potassium (but not products will w ork? The answer is noth- in the type of product tised (liquid, sol- necessarily all three). However, it is not ing. If 1 look further, 1 see product A uble or granular), its nutrient make-up unusual to see magnesium and iron as states that the nitrogen is derived from (Quick release, slow-release or a com- part of an analysis and sometimes, sulphate of ammonia, whereas the bination) and the application rate. minor nutrients (trace elements). The product B is derived from urea. major nutrients can be derived from dif- Sulphate of ammonia provides nitro- Types of product ferent sources, for instance nitrogen in gen that is immediately available to the Fertilisers come in three main forms a conventional (quick-release) fertiliser plant and so works even if soil tem- MULTI-FUNCTION COLLECTOR with unique floating head system, for golf courses and SPHKHRII

WsMirailMii

20+YEARS EXPERIENCE

peratures are low (hence it's inclusion often used in fertilisers because it is in many autumn/winter and spring readily available and cheap, but it pos- starter formulations). It acidifies the sesses a high scorch risk compared to surface of turf, but has a high scorch potassium sulphate. Thus, two fertilis- risk. Urea on the other hand, requires ers of identical analysis may have bacterial activity for the conversion of widely different scorch risks because of nitrogen to plant available forms. This the potassium source utilised. Fertilisers in turn requires good soil temperatures derived from potassium nitrate are usu- and moisture levels. ally sulphur-free and contain nearly So if I was looking for a product to 50% oxygen as part of their analysis - apply as a spring starter to give me a both of these features are especially use- good response, after coring maybe, I ful when dealing with anaerobic would use product A. However, if I was (Oxygen-lacking) rootzone's. looking for a summer product to give Hie take-home message is that rather gentle growth and less flush, I would than just looking at the analysis of the choose product B. fertiliser, one should also look at the YOURS FOR THE ASKING sources of nutrient it is derived from to Irrigation systems, lakes and Potassium Source get an idea of how it works. reservoirs, plus servicing, It's not just the source of nitrogen that repairs and system extensions can affect how a fertiliser works and Longer term Fertilisers Hit a speciality. how it should be used. Some products release their nutrients QQUaCUR£ Potassium in fertilisers can come from over longer periods. These would 8YRTKM» i,Tl> one of three main sources - potassium include slow release, controlled release Unit 18, Downton Industrial Estate, Batten Road, sulphate, potassium chloride or potas- and organic fertilisers. They can rely on Downtc X Salisbury, Wiltshire SP5 3HU sium nitrate, and each have specific soil temperature, moisture, as well as TEL: 01 ; 25 513880 FAX: 01 725 513003 characteristics. Potassium chloride is bacterial activity (or all three) to regu- Fertility RIGHTS NOTWRC '

Different types of Potassium Nitrate Fertiliser 1. Coated (controlled release) for fine turf 2. Mini prill fir fine turf 3. Coated (controlled release) for coarse turf 4. Water soluble fertiliser 5. Standard prill for coarse turf

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late the release of nutrients over a giv- ular fertiliser is applied in the spring en period of time. Such products can and autumn, at renovation time, to pro- provide clear benefits, including the vide a long-term base feed of nutrients. saving of time and labour, avoidance of (Some products feature controlled growth flushes and low scorch poten- release potassium in addition to nitro- tial. gen). These applications provide a base Again, it is important to understand of nutrients for the season, upon which how the particular product works, i.e. supplementary applications, in the what factors it depends upon for its form of light rate granular, water-solu- release, how long it works for, etc, before ble or liquid fertilisers, can be made. making a product selection. Advantages of base-feeding include; Coated or controlled release fertilisers are one such group providing long • Granular applications can be confined to the times of year, when they interfere less term nutrition ana have become wide- with the playing surface (cutting heights ly used over the last 12 years on tees, are higher and the cutting frequency is approaches, fairways - and latterly less). greens as part of a 'base feeding' fer- • Supplementary fertiliser applications can tiliser regime. Resin or polymer coated be made in the form and at the rate the plant requires for that particular part of the products release their nutrients through season, thereby maintaining control. a semi-permeable coating, governed by • The controlled release of nutrients ensures soil temperature. a gentle supply to the plant, in line with it's As temperatures rise, more nutrient requirements, because both the grass plant is released into the rootzone, closely fol- and fertiliser are dependent on soil temperature for growth and release lowing the requirements of the grass respectively plant. Release of nutrients are unaf- • Continuous nutrient availability avoids fected by increased moisture levels, 'peaks and troughs' associated with other making such products ideal for use in fertiliser regimes, providing more consistent wet conditions. Other coated fertilisers growth and more efficient fertilisation. such as (poly) sulphur coated ureas • Excessive rainfall will not effect the release, minimising the risk of leaching, (PSCU/SCU) depend upon tempera- ensuring excess nutrients are not lost. ture as well as other factors such as soil Fertilisation on golf courses is dependent on moisture levels and microbial activity a wide range of factors, not least, the for nutrient release. weather.

Base Feeding - Knowing about the different types of A new approach fertiliser, their nutrient forms and The concept of base feeding is rela- release characteristics and applying this tively new on fine turf, but is becoming knowledge to get the best results is a accepted as a different way of applying key part of modern day greenkeeping. fertiliser, with particular relevance to high sand content rootzones. In this Mark Hunt is Fertilsier Product scenario, a controlled release minigran- Manager for Headland Amenity Ltd Following the success of the first BIGGA Delegation which took 10 BIGGA members to Vancouver for the CGSA Conference and Show earlier this year, courtesy of our friends at Bernhard and Company Ltd, 10 more BIGGA ambassadors will fly to Orlando, Florida next February for the GCSAA Conference and Show ...

BIGGA

Do you want to benefit from Will you be one of the 10 man participating in the GCSAA Bernhard and Company Ltd BIGGA Conference and Show? delegation?

If so, now is the time to seek To give yourself every chance, submit Regional selection. Just forward a personal profile - no more than one details of your career, education and side of A4, and remember this must training and a brief history of your be received by your Section BIGGA membership. You need to Secretary no later than July 31, explain why you should be selected 2001. and how you feel you would benefit from the trip. You will need to demonstrate your Good Luck! ability to represent BIGGA and the greenkeeping profession in a public relations role at an International Two BIGGA members will be selected event. from each Region and if successful It is a rare opportunity to mix all costs of travel, accommodation business, education and pleasure in and entrance to the Conference the wonderful surroundings of programme will be met by Bernhard Orlando, the Theme Park Capital of and Company Ltd. the World. You could be discussing the latest innovation on a new triple in the morning, learning of the latest developments within the industry in the afternoon and having your photograph taken with Mickey Mouse in the evening. A well rounded day by anyone's estimation!

July 2001 Greenkeeper International 33 & E

Scott MacCallum met up with BIGGA GOLDEN KEY John Deere's new American boss CIRCLE at the company's Langar base Room to

ThTnpe lasloot ninpe monthmnnthcs i n thisc counmnn.- delighterlp>lirrntp»rdi t+ro» havnoiieP lande1 innAdn hinisc new job. at the moment and in the Commercial grotry have been quite remarkablew. "Earlier in my career I can remem- and Consumer Equipment sector Floods have been followed by a dis- ber being in Fargo, North Dakota, in we're actually up 10% on last year, and ease not seen here for 34 years and as the middle of winter with the tem- that's in a down market," revealed I write we are still to see the evidence perature 30 degrees below and the Graham. that the pronouncements of a scorch- wind blowing at 60 miles an hour. I The C&lCE Division is responsible ing summer have any truth in them. started to think back to who I might for home owner products, including Into this unique set of British cir- have angered in the company. I cer- lawn tractors and walk behind mow- cumstances has arrived American, tainly don't view the UK that way as ers; commercial mowing equipment, Clay Sherrill, the new General it's an extremely important part of which comprises the compact tractor Manager of the UK John Deere head- John Deere's business," said Clay, as range plus out front rotary and wide quarters. we spoke in his new office, housing in area mowers, as well as the golf and Since taking over the reins at the a building which boasts five huge turf equipment. beginning of the year Clay has seen training rooms and state-of-the-art "So the C&CE division encompass- the Langar base caught in the middle conference facilities. es all three of these different market of a Midlands Foot and Mouth exclu- And while many have suffered sectors and right now we are ahead of sion zone - there is still a disinfectant through the financial downturn John last year which is good news," he mat at the entrance to the company's Deere seems to have continued to explained. superb building - while markets for trade relatively unscathed. For many years John Deere cast a much of the company's product have 'Actually, Foot and Mouth has not huge shadow over agriculture, and the shrunk as revenue streams at many affected our business as badly as we impact such a massive company would golf clubs have reduced to a trickle thought. It has had an impact because make if it did turn its attention to oth- thanks to extended flooding induced without Foot and Mouth we think we er areas could only be imagined. course closures up and down the coun- would have had another really good When it did turn its attention to the growth year. With Foot and Mouth market which encompasses the golf Surprisingly this has not prevented we're not going to have as much industry about five years ago it was Clay, previously the General Manager Above: Clay Sherrill, General Manager growth as we'd expected but we are not a case of half measures. A goal was of the company's Minneapolis branch, still going to be slightly above where set of becoming clear market leader, a Below: Clay with Graham Williams (seated) from turning on his heels and head- we were last year. So tnat's not bad," target which they feel they will hit and some of the John Deere team ing back across the Atlantic and he is said Clay, who, although a non-golfer, within five years. is originally from South Carolina, an "If you go back five years we were hour inland from the golfing hotbed hardly a player in the golf and turf of Myrtle Beach. business. There were three main com- To reinforce the point on the state panies, Toro, Jacobsen and Ransomes. of the market, Graham Williams, Now, with the merger of Jacobsen and Division Manager for Commercial Ransomes into Textron, there are still and Consumer Equipment and the three main players and we are one of owner of a face well known within the them and it is very difficult to pick UK greenkeeping industry revealed out who is the market leader," said some interesting statistics. Graham. "Figures around at the moment show Clay is very keen to grow the UK a decline in the golf turf business and European business as much as brought about by the flooding of possible over the next few years. something like 20%. The effect of the "Part of my own goal is to support Foot and Mouth has not been evalu- the company strategy which is growth, ated yet but budgets have been cut, and the UK and Western Europe is an that's for sure. However if we have a important part of that. We believe that good summer season I don't think Western Europe is a huge opportuni- we'll have any long term problems. ty for us. There is enormous potential There is a lot of business being done •with the amount of business that is Above: John Deere's brand new headquarters allow plenty of room to display their equipment Right: One of the custom built training facilities at the Langar Headquarters here, coupled with the ability of John move into the golf and turf market the nises the importance of Deere to increase its market share," he special nature of the industry meant minimising down time. explained. initial progress was steady rather than "Part of our commit- The delayed entry into the market spectacular. ment to customers is to was due in part to the fact that with- "Frankly it took us a while, both in keep their machines up out diesel powered products - the North America and Europe, to devel- and running to help staple fuel of the UK and Irish mar- op the products we needed to protect our customers' kets - they didn't have the product line penetrate the market and establish revenue. We a sub- to meet customer requirements. relationships within the industry itself. stantial investment in A desire to grow into a completely dif- That is key and you don't just do that parts supply and offer ferent customer base and the overnight. You must earn respect and true 24 hour turn- knowledge that there was so much credibility," said Graham. around. I think we do shared engineering technology between One of the great successes which has a better job than any- the agricultural business and the C&CE enabled John Deere to develop one else in that score," market hastened the change of focus, machinery and build relationships are said Clay. of equipment to The De Vere Belfry into four main sectors - agriculture, the feedback trips which in recent Looking ahead, John Deere aims for which this September hosts The Ryder C&CE, construction equipment and years has involved large numbers of steady innovation and evolution Cup. John Deere finance. greenkeepers from all over the world rather than any quantum leaps and "We are running an incentive pro- "Our agricultural customer base is converging on Germany and the this is likely to be seen in the area of gramme on a worldwide basis and a shrinking. We all know that there are States to ensure that the new machin- environmentally friendly equipment. number of dealers will be attempting fewer, bigger farms and fewer farmers ery being developed was what "We introduced the electric Gator to win a trip to the Ryder Cup. so C&CE allows us to grow our busi- greenkeepers wanted to buy last year which has been a big success Everyone is fired up about the Ryder ness into a completely different "The feedback sessions do produce and I can see an extension of that tech- Cup and from our point of view it will customer base yet the design and engi- tangible benefits, there is no question nology into other machines as well," be the first time that the North neering of quality power products and about that," said Graham. said Graham. American and European guys will have the services which go with them are "For example a recent success for us Uniquely among the major manu- come together," said Graham. very much our strengths," said Clay has been the 2500 greens mower facturers John Deere sponsors an The key question, however, is which "It is a pretty good mix. The con- which has been fantastically success- event in Tiger Woods' playground - side will the new General Manager of struction equipment and C&CE ful. Without the input of greenkeepers the US Tour. The John Deere Classic John Deere's Langer headquarters be business track the general economy, that wouldn't have happened. The is played on a TPC course Deere Run supporting? whether it be in the UK or USA - house whole operator station, the controls built on land donated to the US Tour "I'm supporting Europe. I go where building, consumer confidence and and adjustable steering arm came and runs in the same week as The my customers are and my customers more general factors while agriculture about purely because of feedback. We Open Championship here. are in the UK and Europe. They're the tracks the price of wheat, soya beans, went to an awful lot of trouble to ask Another event which will be of ones who sign the cheques," said Clay, corn and cattle. them what the operator wanted and great interest to BIGGA members next with just a trace of a smile. "To us it has been a superb diversi- this was designed with those guys in year is the John Deere Team fication as we have been able to spread mind," explained Graham. Championship involving the club pro- our existing skills and technology over Clay is quick to reinforce the point fessional, a greenkeeper and two club different markets," said Clay about the benefits that come from officials. Graham believes that the key to the such events. "This is an established event in the golf and turf markets was the intro- "One of the key components of our States but one of the wishes is to duction of the 2653 tees mower and product development process is the extend it worldwide and the likelihood the 3235 fairway mower. early involvement of customers. The is that two teams from the UK will be "Those two machines changed the best way to get the attention of a sent over to play in next year's event," market with their concept. Prior to design engineer is to put him in the said Clay. that, the only John Deere equipment same room as a set of customers. We But there is another golf event, in on golf courses would have been com- do exactly the same in the agricultur- which John Deere has an input, which pact tractors and out front rotary al sector,' he said. is causing huge interest all over the mowers." The company is also extremely world. 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Staff records Diaries Stock controller Course data Report analysis Time sheets Machinery logs Supplier database Maintenance logs Accounting logs 5 —^J Management For rrfore detailed information and a free demonstration CD, please contact ; Dromenagh Farm, Sevenhills Road, Iver Heath, Bucks, SLO OPA [email protected] 01347 833800 J^ Telephone: 01895 834411 Facsimile: 01895 834892 Epani Is a continually expanding company specialising in Information Technology for the game of Golf. Bringing satisfaction and enjoyment to golfers around • CUT OUT FOR REFERENCE • the world is our hi^iest priority. In doing so, we offer a complete national IT system aimed towards golf associations, golf districts, golf clubs and even the individual golfer. We want to utilise our system's accessibility, simplicity and cost-effective management in boosting the world of golf in the 21st centuryEpan. i out at the Glen Golf Club on Mav 30. Scratch Category 3 1. S. Sullivan, 70 1.G. Nisbett, Glasgow GC, 72 A fine day was had by all in attendance 2. J. Urquhart, 71 2. B. McCulloch, Bonnyton GC, 77 as normal the rain was heavy when we Class one 3. C. Black, Blairbeth GC, 80 bih arrived but by the time we had played 1. R. Roy, 72-4=68 the 1st the rain had gone and the sun 2. B. Cruickshank, 73-4=69 Other prizewinners were Robert was shining for the rest of the day. 3. S. Williams, 76-5=71 bih Bruce (trade prize), G.'Bruen, longest Class two We would like to thank the Captain 1. K. Kinnaird, 76-12=64 bih drive, L. Wilson nearest the pin & J. East and Council for the courtesy of the club 2. R Watson, 75-11 =64 Govan visitor's prize. It was good to see Sorry there was no article last month the caterers and bar staff for the superb 3. D. Macavoy, 78-8=70 • a rood turn out on the day as I had one or two problems getting food and the equally magnificent Class three Those who read the Section news will refreshments which I believe they had 1.D. Marnoch, 84-14=70 bih remember me writing in the April the column written up before the dead- 2. S. Hogg, 90-20=70 line, but don't worry as it is all here this to re-stock the bar completely the next 3. M. Reid, 87-14=73 report about the offer of a place at month in its entirety so you won't miss day (well it felt that way the next day). Apprentice BTME next year made by Mike a thing. The bus driver for the day was an 1. S. Pettigrew, 76-5=71 Dooner, of Thorntree Landscapes, to The Section held the first major of absolute gentleman, as he got us there 2. J. Swanson, 90-16=74 an assistant or trainee who is a mem- safely and made sure we aS got home Veteran ber of BIGGA. To win this great prize the year at Dunbar Golf Club at the 1.R.Donald 81-6=75 end of April. As usually happens at our safely. Thanks to our sponsors for the 2. R. Napier, 108-26=82 the committee decided an essay com- spring tournament the weather was ter- day SGM (Brian Goudie & Ewan Trade petition be used to throw open the prize rible, with wind, rain and misty Thomson) and Ian Henderson Finance J. Darling, 78-3=75 to all West Section assistants and conditions greeting us on our arrival to (Ian Henderson). Guest trainees. The subject of the essay will Thank you gentlemen you looked G. Smith 82-11=71 be "Preparing my course for a major the course and continuing throughout Nearest the pin the day which made a lot of people after us superbly, and it was a pleasure K. Peace. event". All essays should be sent to the decide not to play and stay within the to be in your company for a good social Longest drives Section Secretary Mr AJ Bulloch, 1, confines of the clubhouse, which was a day, ana we look forward to continu- Class one N. Sadler Crosslee Crescent, Woodend Park, wise descision by the people who did- ing this partnership next year. Thanks. Class two K. Smith Houston, PA6 7DT. The essay should Class three B. Cocker be no more than 1,500 words and all n't go out. so next year we are going to Last, but not least, Course Manager, Card draw winner for BIGGA blazer: R. Roy book the decent weather in advance? Davy Coull, and his team for having entries should be in by September 1. We would like to take this opportuni- the course in great shape considering The two Section members winning The committee would like to thank to thank the Captain and Council the dry spell we had just gone through £100 toward a trip to the National Mike once again for the kind offer made Ii) r the courtesy of the course and use and also considering they had no water Championships are S Sullivan and K to the Section and I know whoever wins of their facilities, the clubhouse staff for as they were having an automatic sys- Kinnaird. will enjoy the BTME experience. looking after us extremely well, and tem put in at the time that we were Thanks to the Scottish Region for Well that is it for this month, if you Head Greenkeeper Graham Wood and there so it was a credit to you all, so I providing the prize for one of these win- have anything you would like added to his staff for having the course in tremen- hope the system is up and running now. ners. The first four prizes in the 200 future columns please do not hesitate dous condition considering the weather I had the pleasure to play with Davy Club were drawn and winners are: to call me on 01355266862. we had on the run up to the tourna- on the day and he is a new member to January £30 number 156 D. Slater, Brian Bolland ment. Well done lads all credit to you the Section so we hope to see him at February £30 number 21 B. Cocker all. We would also like to thank our some of the up and coming Section jnr., March £30 number 42 J trade patrons and sponsors for giving events. McCormack, April £100 number 12 D Latest news? us so many prizes for our raffle table. Results: The individual competition Boyle. Thanks to our Patrons the raf- www.bigga.org.uk/news.html If it wasn't for these guys we wouldn't (Eddie Holt Trophy) with 39 points was fle table was large and many went home be able to have such a good raffle at yours truly; Our Chairman, Tom with prizes. All in all a great day thanks Ayrshire our outings so thanks once again to all Murray, in The Chairman (Tom to the committee for all their work and The rescheduledsprin g outing was held of you. Murray) verses Vice Chairman (Chris once again thanks to all at Brechin GC. at Routenburn Golf Club, in Largs, on It was also nice to have Peter Boyd Yeaman) match, the result was a win As promised in last month's maga- May 15. This was necessary because of our Regional Administrator in atten- for the Chairman's team. Well done to zine, congratulations to Martyn Foot and Mouth disease close to our orig- dance on the day. Peter, you are most them for playing so well and they scored Cameron on succeeding Neil Ballingall inal venue of Brighouse Bay We will now welcome to our events throughout the some impressive Stableford points as Head Greenkeeper at Moray GC, visit Brighouse Bay on September 27, for year so hurry back soon. There was (handicaps will be looked at). next month hopefully I can reveal who our autumn outing. Thanks to all at some very good scoring on the day in The members of my team will have has replaced Martyn at Buckpool. This Brighouse for your patience on this mat- very testing conditions so well done to to improve next year as their coats are month sees the Open Champic ter and we look forward to our visit. all who played round and also all the on a shoogly peg! Joking apart we all at Royal Lytham and for the first time Routenburn saw a small but prize winners on the day. had a great day out and are looking in 15 years the North Section might improved turnout of the hardened reg- Results of the spring tournament: ahead to next year already thanks again not have a member in the Support ulars and a couple of new faces. An to everyone concerned. Team. I cannot make it as it clashes enjoyable day was had by all in the Well that's it all for this month and with my 25th wedding anniversary and pleasant weather. Thanks go to North Best Scratch- (Boyd Trophy) hopefully I have not missed anything I would like to stay married for the fore- Ayrshire Leisure Trust for allowing us D. Drummond 72 bih seeable future and as far as I am aware courtesy of the course, Pro Greg First Class - (Souters Cup) if I have let me know on all the usual 1. G. Rodgers 77-5-72 bih numbers or you can e-mail me, so thats there is no one from the Section going, McQueen for arranging the tee times, 2. G. Wood 78-6-72 it till next month with news and results I might be wrong though. the barstaff for keeping us refreshed, 3. K. Mail 72-+1-73 from the summer tournament from Iain Macleod Chef Frank McKinney for the food and Second Class - (Lothian Tractors Trophy) Duns GC. last but not least Head Greenkeeper, 1.R. Mullen-87-11-76 Chris Yeaman. West Colin Sutherland and his staff, for pre- 2. A. Campbell- 88-10-78 senting the golf course. 3.1. Watson -9 2-14-78 Welcome to this month's Section Third Class-1. (Turf Care Cup) news. First a report on the Spring out- The prize winners were as follows in 1.K. Shiells-117-22-95 Section Event? ing held at Kirkhill GC on May 2. a Stableford event. 2. F Forrest -122-23-99 www.bigga.org.uk/events.html Although the sun shone on the day a Best nett of the day (Ocmis Cup) strong wind made for difficult golfing 1. John Mair, Beith, 37pts; D. Drummond- 72-3-69 conditions. John Scott and his staff are 2. Syd Mercer, Skermorlie, 36pts Veteran (New Holland Trophy) North (Both John and Syd win a trip to the National Tournament J. Manuel - 85-7-78 The spring outing to Brechin GC to be congratulated on the fine condi- courtesy of the Scottish Region and Ayrshire Section); Trade (Patrons Cup) started off with a wet and breezy day, tion of the course. The Section would 3. Jack Paterson, Port Bannantyne, 34pts; A. White (Sheriffs) 85-8-73 but most people were happy to see once again like to thank the members 4. lain Barr, Largs Kelburn, 32pts; New Members' Prize 5. Barry Crawford, Old Prestwick, 32pts; some rain at last and much fertilising of the club for the courtesy of their A. Purdie 75-2-73 course. The winners on the day were: Trade Guest Prize had been done in the previous days. As Ted McDonald, Hamilton Bros, 26pts. R Boyd (R.A.) 79-4-75 the day wore on the weather got bet- Highest score of the day ter and most got round dry. Scratch Finally, good wishes go to Andrew S.Taylor, Glasgow GC,73 Bruce Joyce (TIS) 145 Andy Wilson and his staff had the Donnelly who has secured a full time Category 1 job as an Assistant Greenkeeper at course in great shape especially after the 1. C.Gordon, Lenzie GC, 76 Millport Golf Club; Andrew was previ- Well that's the report and results for awful Winter we had endured. We are 2. G.Bruen, Williamwood GC, 77 spring 2001. Next tournament Texas indebted to Andy and all at Brechin for 3. G.Kerr, Gleddoch CC, 79 bih ously an apprentice with me at Largs a great day out for the 74 members, Category 2 Kelburn. Scramble Duns GC, Wednesday, June 1.G.Miller, Cardross GC, 72 6. Results next month. trade and guests who attended. Any news call me on 01505-683278. 2. J.Wilson, Langland's GC, 75 bih Iain Barr The committee held there annual day Prize winners were as follows: 3. B.Bolland, East Kilbride GC, 75 Central flenneagle and Bennlinks Bentgrasses in vour British Seniors event and to Roger the recent Tour tournament, because What's happened this month? No conjunction with Penn State and TEE- Kerry and his team for the Welsh they like everybody else must have suf- new members to welcome, this is the 2-GREEN. Dr Duich remains a Seniors open and to all of you poor fered problems with the course, brought first time we have failed to increase our consultant to Augusta Golf Qub and unfortunate fools out there that decid- on by the atrocious weather over the numbers this year, surely there are still is renowned for his forward thinking ed that greenkeeping in this climate was last 12 months. Fortunately the weath- a good number of greenkeepers within on Bentgrass development. a good career decision. er picked up and allowed them to our area who are not members and The talk started with the history of Dave Goodridge produce a course that was a credit to don't know what they are missing. So the turf care programme at Penn State them, and British greenkeepers. let's make sure we welcome some new and how development is financed and North-West The next Section golf is the "Roses" faces next month. progressed. Dr Duich then talked about Not much happening in the N/W sec- match against the Northern Section at There is not great deal of news/gos- genetics, choosing seed, watering and tion, or so I assume, because nobody Sandmoor Golf Qub, on Wednesday, sip/information whatever to report at fertilisation. Finally the point which he has contacted me with any news, good August 22.1 will require a team of 16 to the moment as everyone seems to be could not emphasise enough was the or bad. Further afield the staff at The win the Pattisson Trophy If you are avail- too busy trying to combat this appalling value communication and networking. Belfry must be congratulated on the able contact me as soon as possible. weather that we have experienced so He was visiting Gleneagles with John wonderful condition of the course for Education? Each month the educa- far this year, we are only two weeks Bradwell, from Turf Seed UK, to show away from the longest day and the wind new material which is at the develop- is blowing like mad, it's raining, there ment stage to the Gleneagles Golf are hailstones and frost is forecast for Maintenance team who will be evalu- tomorrow. Who would be a ating and commenting on the merits of Greenkeeper? Still it will soon be time these new Bentgrasses. for Harrogate again! Students are going to have an oppor- Discussions are taking place with tunity to run trials and maintain these regard to the venue for this year's AGM. new developments by aiding in the but at the moment nothing has been construction, maintenance and man- finalised so I can only give you a clue agement of a new test site. as to its whereabouts. The location is Other student news involves referred to in one of Phil Collins's songs Gleneagles looking into the possibility (I'm positive it is, well almost!) if any- of employing three Chinese students one can work it out then send the for seasonal work, the students who answer to me on a post card and you attend Elmwood College in Fife are over will win a much sought after prize of a here on work experience and are train- free ticket for next years "Club 2000". ing to teach turfgrass management to Speaking of which, the tickets for next colleges in China when they return. The year's draw will be arriving with you students would gain invaluable experi- shortly, I can just hear you all saying "I ence and it gives them a chance to put must remember to send John the mon- all their theory into practice in a cham- ey for my tickets this time.", well the pionship-working environment and 240 members who forgot last time! equally important it allows the student Next year's draw will be an even big- chapter to develop links and contacts ger bargain than before with the cost of with one of the fastest growing golf mar- the tickets being reduced by £1 to £5, kets in the world. but the prize money will remain the I can be contacted by e-mail on same, can't be bad can it, something [email protected] or Tel: coming down in price. 01764 694429 Entry forms for the Autumn Ian Morrison Tournament at Murrayshall on Thursday September 27 will also be arriving shortly, and as the maximum number of entries will be 50, if you wish to play and test your golfing ability over one of the most scenic ana testing new courses in Scodand, Please get your entries in Pronto! North Wales That's it for this time! Hopefully there Sorry about lack of notes last month will be more next month. I was on me hols. I met Paul Massey John Crawford. in Corfu airport and he was telling me about his problems and vice versa. What a year, no spring, just the longest Phone a friend? winter on record and then a flamin' www.bigga.org.uk/contact.html heatwave, my poa has been laying in water for seven months and then gets Gleneagles Chapter roasted. It had no chance! The Bents Just a brief note this time to keep you have been happily growing away mak- all updated on the student chapter's ing some of the most uneven putting progress after our inclusion within surfaces this side of the moon. If I threw BIGGA as discussed in May's issue. top dressing on it would be fusarium Last month (May 21) we attended a city. Great job this greenkeeping lark! lecture here at Gleneagles hosted by Dr. Due to various reasons the annual Joe Duich. For those who are unfamil- Gem sponsored N. Wales vs N. West iar with the name, Dr. Duich is match was cancelled. However Gem will Technical Advisor and Consultant for still be looking to sponsor the event TEE-2-GREEN in the USA. Prior to again next year, we want our shield back, this appointment, Dr. Duich was to go along side the one we won against Professor of Turfgrass Science at Penn the opposition of not just the N West State University for more than 36 but the Midlands as well in the inau- years. While at Penn State he played a gural Sportsworld sponsored event. Without doubt, the new \fcrti- major role in the development of Remember Bert, that Gem Shield is Drain Mustang is the fastest, most Pencross Creeping Bentgrass, which ours, and you only won it through effective aerator on the market today. was released in 1955. Pencross was the default, because we have obviously got Whilst it still features the unique, first advanced creeping bentgrass culti- the best golfing team bar none. patented 'heave' action, there are many var exclusively for golf course use, and Just one last shout to Andy Campbell new improvements, including single since then he has gone on to develop and his team I hope it all went well for point arm adjustment, a stronger tine support system and fewer working parts. tion page in the magazine gives lists of Northern The Results are as follows: Scratch all types of golfer, the main aim of the courses available at Regions and HQ. Sorry about last month's entry, there Cup Alan Baxter, 41pts; Div. 1. 1. day is enjoyment and meeting other If you feel there is a subject that par- was a glitch on the Internet. Back to Richard Harris, 38pts; 2. Brian greenkeepers with golf coming a poor t icularly interests you, let me know and, the Spring Tournament and what a Hudson, 38pts; 3. Tony Gerrard, 36pts. third. Thanks again to everybody at thiougn our Education Officer, Ken turn out at Filey GC sponsored by F & Div. 2. 1. Johnny Piatt, 40pts; 2. Philip Filey GC and F & G Adamsons & Son Richardson, we can arrange a venue for G Adamsons & Son. A record of 54 of Baldock, 36pts; 3. John Studdard, for being main sponsor and Aitkins axourse in our Region. you turned out to brave the weather 35pts. Div. 3, 1. Mike Gregson, 34pts; Sportsturf Ltd for the longest drive and Before I finish how about Liverpool for the pie-round bacon sarni and three 2. John Wood, 31 pts; 3. Richard Wood, nearest the pin. Football Club getting the treble. course meal. I would like to thank Filey 28pts. The Trade Prize went to Mel The Roses Match against the North Worthington Cup, FA Cup, and the GC for being so accommodating and Guy and the Longest Drive and Nearest West Section which we are proudly UEFACup. Not bad stuff (That should the presence of Vice-Captain for the the Pin sponsored by Aitkins Sportsturf get my phone ringing). prize giving. Thanks also go to Head Ltd. went to; Longest Drive, Mel Guy: Bert Cross Greenkeeper, Andy Remmings and his Nearest the Pin, Alan Baxter. One of Section Event? Mobile 07791 583387 staff, for their help on the day and the the lowest scores of the day was 5pts, www.bigga.org.uk/events.html Home 0151 7245412 quality of the course. and it wasn't me! So there is room for

It can drive its 6" tines, solid or outsold and outperformed all Contact us now for further Hollow, at a faster rate than any other competitors for the past 20 years. information or a demonstration of the new aerator, which makes it the perfect And, with an aerator to suit Verti-Drain Mustang on 01428 661222. Redexim + machine for high speed runs down the virtually every application, it's the widest fairway and for even shorter work on the range available anywhere. Charterhouse Turf Machinery Ltd, Œarterfwuse greens. But one word of caution. >$feydown Industrial Estate, Weydown The new Mustang joins the market- The new Mustang is fast; so fast Road, Haslemere, Surrey, GU27 1DW E-Mail: [email protected] leadiLlni g range of \£rti-Drains that have that you may get done in a flash. Tel: 01428 661222. Fax: 01428 661218. Web Site: http://www.redexim.com defending and sponsored by Rattissons reached the semi-final of the putting East Anglia is to be neld at Sand Moor GC on competition, Alan Roberts of the Well now I feel as old as I look, my Wednesday, August 22. This day is ful- Midland Section was the overall win- daughter Jenny gave birth to our first ly sponsored with food included, so all ner of the Putting comp. Also on May grandchild on Tuesday, May 15. Sky you have to do is turn up. The closing 13 at Carholme GC. Alan Roberts and Christina weighed in at 61b lOozs and date for applications to be considered I finished third in the Carholme Open looks just like her father, David. for the 16 man team is August 8. with a Better-Ball score of +7. If any- Congratulations to our winners of the Some more dates for your diary are Midland one as has any news they would like to National Championship Qualifier the Annual Dinner Dance on Saturday This year's annual Spring see appear in this column please let me James Wright from Bungay and November 10. Section Seminars on Tournament was held at Great Ban- know. Waveney GC (best Net) and Alan Wednesday 21st November 2001 and Golf Qub on the May 14. Antony Bindley Carter from Hoverhill GC (best Gross). Wednesday, February 27 2002. More Congratulations to Kings Norton's Can you please let me know if you details of these events nearer the time. Nick Bird who took the net prize. Gross have any ideas on what training you If anybody has any requests for sub- winner was Rob Shaw, of Gaudet Luce, Section Event? think is required for your continual pro- jects or courses they would like to go 2. Eddie Stant of Penn GC and 3. Steve www.bigga.org.uk/events.html fessional development over the on then give us a bell. Mucklow, of Beau Desert. The trade Autumn 2001 and Spring 2002, Congratulations to Tito Arana and the prize went to Rigby Taylor's, Tony East of England BIGGA HOUSE is hoping to provide missus who are expecting sleepless nights Cheese, with a net 70. Many thanks to The spring seminar took place at courses in the Sections over this peri- in the future with a baby on the way Len Breakwell and Alastair Rathbone Newark Golf Club. od. Discussions are in progress at this A report on President's Day spon- for sponsoring the day Longest drive A good attendance of Greenkeepers moment and I will let everyone know sored by Acorn will be in next month's and nearest the pin sponsors, Rufffords, listened to Simon Barnaby, Technical the results later in the year. magazine. We welcome two new and drinks on the 10th sponsored by Manager for Scotts, talk about I would like to pass on my congratu- members in Timothy Ward, Mid Sportsworld. Integrated Pest Management. lations to the Greenkeeping Teams at Yorkshire GC and Gavin Parr, Leeds Sportsworld have also sponsored a Everybody can now put into practice The Belfry and Wentworth. After the Golf Centre. golf day, which they intend to develop or attempt to control pests using vari- terrible winter everyone had, it's nice There isn't any more news at the into an annual challenge match ous different proactive management to see all their hard work come to moment, if anybody as any then let me between Midland, North Wales and strategies, considering everything that fruition with the excellent presentation know. My address is 67 Asquith North West Sections. may affect pest development. of their courses. Avenue, Morley, Leeds, LS27 9QS; Tel: This year's event was contested at The evening was sponsored by Simon We have provisional bookings for 0113 2383188: mobile 07790 Northop Hall Golf Qub with North Hutton of Fine Turf Services. Thanks 2002, Thetford GC April 25; 678572. Email: andy_smith21 @hot- Wales becoming the victors followed by to Simon for the donation to the bar Stowmarket GC June 11; Gorleston mail.com North West second and Midland third. bill and the postage. Also thanks to GC July 30; Ufford Park GC October Andy Smith Our thanks go to Sportsworld's Andrew Astle of Alpha Amenity for the 9. Well done, Colin. Matthew Burrows for sponsoring a first raffle prize. Ian Coote, from Bassingbourn Sheffield class day and to Mike Whitehouse, Next seminar will take place in Barracks Golf Club, is the latest green- Gem Professional was the sponsor of Terry Adamson and Dave Rahman for Autumn/Winter and will probably be keeper to join our ranks. Hope to see our first golf day to be held at Bondhey bringing together a new and exciting about Architecture/Landscaping of the you at a meeting in the near future Ian. Golf Club on May 15. A superb turn event. Golf Course. Or let me know if there Well that is all for now, see you all out of 47 came along to support the Phil Gates is a special subject or topic that the sec- soon day, which we hope to see continue tion should cover. Ian Willett. through the year. The day went very East Midlands Graeme Macdonald well, the course was in fine shape and This years Spring Tournament was held the standard of golf wasn't bad either. at Birstall GC on Wednesday May 9. On The top five winners were: a pleasant spring day 40 members turned Latest news? out for the competition which was quite www.bigga.org.uk/news.htmI 5. J. Moorecroft, 32 pts 4. G. Wells, 32 pts an improvement on previous years. The 3. R Dockerty, 34 pts winners were as follows. Surrey 2. T White, 36 pts Spring and summer have arrived 1. S. Brown, 36 pts Best Gross Kent Derek McJannet, Sherwood Forest. 72 together and today, June 5, continues Best Nett Surprise! A report from the Kent to be sunny and warm. The birds are Well done to you five and to all the Section. Well it's been a while since the other prize winners. A presentation was Jamie Bedford, Birstall, 83-16-67 singing, the irrigation systems are near- Category 1 last one and that's why I'm now doing also made to Ron Ullathorne for all his ly working and if only it would rain at 1. Richard Barker, Kirby Muxloe 75-3-72 the honours. hard work as section secretary over the night Surrey would be the perfect place. David Smith, Cotgrave Place, 81 -8-73 My name is Jason Bean and I'm the years. Category 2 One spot in Surrey on May 10 was 1. Adi Porter, Greetham Valley, 82-12-70 Deputy Course Manager at Kings Hill such a place, Hindhead Golf Club, the Thank you to all the trade members Golf Club. There may be a few of you who supported the day, to the green staff 2. Antony Bindley, Kirby Muxloe, 87-16-71 venue for our Spring Tournament. Category 3 who know me as I've been around a bit for a good course, to Tony Beaumont, Many thanks to Steve Holmes and his 1. Gavin Robson, Lingdale, 91-19-72 as they say Anyway enough about me of Gem Professional, for some excellent 2. Andy McGreal, Lingdale, 108-28-80 team for providing a course in fantas- for now, because we have the rest of the prizes and to the captain and Helen, of Trade & Associate tic condition. It was for many a first year to talk about that. That is, if you Bondhey Golf Club, for their support 1. Simon Hedley, Boughton Loam, 86-15-71 visit to Hindhead but with such a diver- 2. Pete Fell, Aitkens, 88-12-76 don't send me any information about and hospitality throughout the day sity of landscape, Flora and Fauna I am what you guys are up to at your golf In addition to the prize winners, six sure Surrey Section will be pressing for I would like to take this opportunity clubs or anything else you want to talk a return as soon as possible. players qualified for the regional finals. to thank Birstall GC for allowing us about. Like me, who said to one of the The better golfers were: Best nett - These are, 0-9 handicap P Dockerty and courtesy of their fine course, and to committee, that no-one was writing this 69 Darren Lee, Sunningdale, Best G. Wells, 10-18 handicap T White and Roger Willars and his staff for present- K Hazlehurst, 19-28 handicap S. Brown article, so here I am. Should have kept Gross - 74 Nigel Colley, Roehampton, ing a quality golf course in such difficult my mouth shut, but those who know and J. Moorecroft The finals are to be weather conditions. Also thanks should 2. Best net - 70 Gary Ogilvie 9th hole played on August 15 and anyone not me it would be out of character. John Groombridge, Old Thorns. be extended to the Stewardess, Mrs So if you have any gossip or news you able to take part should contact Paul Oswell, for a great meal. Last but not Longest Drive 18th hole Bob Rogers Dockerty as soon as possible so as he can can call me on 01732 875020 or fax Laleham. Nearest the pin 6th hole least a special thank you should go to me on 01732 875019 or for those who arrange a replacement. our sponsors ET Breakwells. Brian Gillespie, Petersfield. Nearest the don't like talking, you can e-mail me at pin 15th hole Eddie Oliver, Liphook. On behalf of the section I would like Two dates for your diary Spring [email protected]. Please get in Thanks to our sponsors E&S Sports to wish David Wadkin a very happy Tournament 2002. The Leicestershire touch, even if you are trying to sell your and Kestrel Golf. retirement. David who is a long serving GC Thursday May 2 and Autumn greenkeeper as Hallamshiie Golf Club car, anything is better than nothing! Now other items of news from around Tournament Tuesday September 17, Hope to see you at Walmer and retired on May 18. We wish you all the 2002, at Horsley Lodge GC. Surrey, the latest member to have Kjngdown for the first golf day on June achieved his Master Greenkeeper is our very best. Finally a little bit early but Congratulations should go to Jeff current regional representative and will soon come round a reminder that Dickinson who is on this year's Support Jason Bean course manager from Richmond Golf the next golf day is at Gainsborough Team at The Open at Royal Lytham. Club, Lee Strutt, and I am sure you Golf Qub on Wednesday, July 18 at a Finally just some quick golf news I tee off time of 1.30pm. finished third in the Pitlochry Phone a friend? would all join with me in offering Lee A Sampson Championship on May 2-4 and our heartiest congratulations. www.bigga.org.uk/contact.html Les Coombes, from Windlesham Golf Club, would like to offer some Div 1 (Huxley's Trophy) South West held at Royal Belfast GC on July 6. assurance to any greenkeeper who is 1. Mark Hancock 52pts The Greenkeeper/Amateur Fourball Graham Prosser from Tacit has kindly having irrigation leaks in our latest dry 2. Matt Blake 48pts. Betterball Competition took place on provided sponsorship for the July com- spell, for every one you have someone Div 2 (Avoncrop Trophy) a sunny short-wearing day at petition. I would also like to remind 1. Kevin Glass 55pts Woodspring Golf Qub, Bristol. I was members of the charity day golf com- somewhere will have two and that if 2. Andy McDonald 54pts left they will be completely unnotice- 3. Alan Magee 53pts lucky enough to play with the Course petition being played at Clandeboye able wnen the rain starts again in Div 3 (Roffeys Cup) Manager, Steve Chappel, Nigel and GC on August 3. Once again September. 1. Kevin Ratcliffe 55pts Chopper Harris (a very appropriate Clandeboye's Course Manager, 'ferry Due to a delayed deadline for the 2. Adi Archer 45pts name!) from T. H. Whites. The course Crawford, has organised the entire day. Longest Drive was in excellent condition, and the All the money raised will go to a char- magazine I am able to include the Stuart Hooker results of the Cresta Cup played at the Nearest the Pin scores proved this. ity of Terry's choice. A four-figure sum superbly presented North Hants Golf Brian Willmott Superb prizes provided by sponsor of has been raised on each Royal Victoria Club. Everyone agreed that this is one the day Bioseed Probotics. These were in Belfast. Greenkeepers, trade mem- of our outstanding courses in the south Everyone enjoyed the wonderful hos- presented to 1. C. Tozer and D. Rendell bers, and Secretary/Managers all come and confirms that we are very lucky to pitality given by Basingstoke. The 42 pts. 2. M. Hawker and C. Ross 41 together for this competition, so places be able to play golf in clubs that are lunch and evening meal was very enjoy- pts. 3. J. Keenaghan and L. Cox, 38 pts. are limited. Please contact Terry presented to such a high standard. We able. A special thanks must go to Julie The longest drive went to C. Tozer and Crawford to arrange a tee time on Tel thanks Nigel Stainer and his Tribe, the Assistant Club Secretary, for the Nearest the pin,). Keenaghan. 91458380 and give your support for Greenkeepers for an extremely pleasant all her hard work. We would like to thank everyone at this event. day And last but not least to Harvey Tribe Woodspring for a brilliant day in splen- I would like to welcome new mem- The above average golfers were: and his team, for providing the course did surroundings. The next event for bers Andrew Wray Castlerock CC and Cresta Cup Winner John Mathis at such short notice. your diary is the Summer Tournament Gary Johnston City of Deny GC to the Sunningdale GC, 48pts. Runner up The next competition to take place is at the Kendelshire on July 24 please Section this month. Andrew Dennis, Laleham GC, 35pts. the The Secretaries V' BIGGA, to be continue to support the Section and Ken Henderson Nearest the pin Craig Mills, Hindhead held at Upavon GC on June 14. And the events. GC, Longest Drive Gary Ogilvie then the Summer Tournament is to be The team will play the South Coast (Avoncrop) The day was sponsored by held on July 12 at Broadstone GC. So on August 16 Contact; J. Keenaghan if Vitax whom we thank most sincerely look out for the results shortly. you are available for selection. for the high quality prizes. Well that's it for another month. Dave Bougen. Brian Wilmott Mike Cartwright. Devon and Cornwall See you all next month! What a month we were lucky to have the company of our Chairman Clive Osgood who attended the workshop on Health & Safety organised by our Regional Administrator, Paula YOU'VE Humphries. Unfortunately the excel- South Coast lence of the workshop wasn't matched The result of our Golf competition at The Spring Tournament has finally by the attendance. For the second time Galgorm GC on June 8 will be featured been played at Basingstoke GC. If you this year I have experienced the effects in our Section notes next month. The remember the original day had to be of an earthquake this time in my home NI Section will be sending two repre- cancelled at The Army GC, so it was town of Bude, although it only mea- sentatives to this year's National sured 3.6 it still made the bed shake, I GOT rescheduled to take place at Championships, to be held at Royal Basingstoke on May 31. thought my luck was in. Birkdale, Southport and Ainsdale Golf Qubs. Members who intend to play in A total of 28 players eventually The Section is delighted to announce If MAILyou've got an email account, and wan!t to played on the day, including the Club that Phoenix Irrigation will be spon- the qualifying competition for the trip keep up to date with the latest news and Captain Mr D Newman, and Eddie soring the fixture cards for the next two to Birkdale, must have played in two events from the turfcare industry, drop us an Fox, from Huxleys. Seven entrants had seasons. The new fixture cards will of the competitions held over the spring email, and we'll add you to our ever to withdraw, some at very short notice. hopefully be with you during late and summer period. increasing list of online subscribers. One day isn't not enough time for Chris August. The qualifying competition will be We'll then inform you of any forth-coming features and events via email. to inform the caterers of changes. I Rrchard Whyman played on a links course around late mentioned before that at least seven August, probably on the north coast. Simply send an email to: days' notice is required to cancel, any The Secretary will be notifying all mem- [email protected] less time than this and you will forfeit bers regarding the venue and date in quoting your name and your Membership your entrance money Section Event? due course. www.bigga.org.uk/events.html number, and we'll do the rest - it's that easy! So who were the winners on the day? Our next Golf competition will be

Golf Course Preparation Video £14.95 to BIGGA members £29.95 to non-members

Golf Course Reconstruction Video £14.95 to BIGGA members £29.95 to non-members Ecology Book £3.00 to BIGGA members £7.00 to non-members Ecology Video £14.95 to BIGGA members £29.95 to non-members Raising the Standards of Mowing Management Video £14.95 to BIGGA members £29.95 to non-members Setting the Standard in Spraying Application Video £14.95 to BIGGA members £29.95 to non-members Irrigation Video £14.95 to BIGGA members £29.95 to non-members

Education Dept, BIGGA HOUSE, Aldwark, Alne, York, Y061 1UF Tel: 01347 833800 Fax: 01347 833801 Email: [email protected] BUYERS' GUIDP -, Buyers Aeration Bio-Technology J & E ELY >1 th HYDROJECT AERATION Our 10 year supplying biotech solutions GOLF COURSE Guide AND CHEMICAL INJECTION SERVICE CONSTRUCTION •s«3Ana aaino ^ (WITITHH NNOO SURFACSURFACEE DISTURBANCEDISTURBANCE! ' m.ta^T Thinking about a KEITH DRIVER biological programme? Reading, Berks (SPORTSTURF CONTRACTOR) Tel/Fax: 0118 9722257 Tel 01273 564015 Mobile: 07958 532008 E-mail: [email protected] 8 Morecambe Rd, Brighton. Sussex BN1 8TL First ask a biologist 40th Anniversary ^ oBAQESA&lXC Contact Louisa Farthing BSc 1961 -2001 V\V mum•CO M or Stella Inglethorpe BSc www.elygolfconstruction.com Genuine Parts It Tines Tel: 01372 456101 MULTICDRE TM 1000/TM 1500 Email: [email protected] MULTICORE GREENKEEPER Specialists in Golf Cantad Contact Bunker Rakes Course Woodlands Brigstock Ltd The Double A Trading Co Construction Tel: (01536] 373 238 Tel: (01334) 65/ 602 Jfijf BUNKER RAKES Agronomy from ALLEN POWER EQUIPMENT LTD JOHN GREASLEY LIMITED 14" Lightweight Rake Packed¡nios "Ashfield House" «1154 Melton Road Complete with wooden shaft & black polyprop head Syston • Leicester • LE7 2HB B Jamieson 14" Deluxe Rake packed in m /TST>\ Tel: 0116 269 6766 Golf Advisors Ltd With white flexi-shaft, white polyprop head & grip Mobile: 0836 553899 Bruce Jamieson Golf Advisors Ltd, is an 21" Deluxe Rake Packedinios Fax: 0116 269 6866 established company offering expert advice on; With white flexi-shaft, white polyprop head & grip W All prices + VAT Carnage at extra cost, FREE for orders of £250 plus # Golf Course maintenance ALIEN POWER IQIPMENT LID. The Broadway. Didcot. Oxon 0X118ES # Tournament preparation & presentation # Machinery selection Tel: 01235 515400 Fa* 01235 515401 Course Equipment # Budgeting Email: [email protected] # Staff recruitment # Soil & turf analysis # Establishment of new golf courses MEMBERS BUNKER RAKES Contact: Bruce Jamieson FROM ONLY £2.54 EACH Browntop, 17 Haywarden Place, Hartley Wintney, Hants, RG27 8UA Telephone: 01252 844847 www.bjgolf.co.uk Strong construction complete with FAIRWAY replaceable threaded handle Quality Course Equipment 12 for £2.99 each Flags 98p Hole Cups £3.90 Amenity Spraying 50 for £2.69 each Signs £4.90 Tee Markers £2.50 100 for £2.54 each Glassfibre Flag Pins £4.90 etc etc Prices are for complete rakes, delivered free. PHONE OR FAX A & B COWELL Rake support pegs - 70p each. 0161 763 7060 A BIGGA Made in the UK by MW Dyason Ltd, TRADE ENQUIRIES WELCOME AMENITY SPRAYING 6/10 Hitchmead Road, SPORTSWATCH Biggleswade, SG18 ONH Contract spraying for amenity turf, Tel: 01767 317011 Fax: 01767 317186 Drainage golf courses, sports fields and Simply look through all the products school playing fields. and services in our guide and name Construction Duncan Ross ^ ^ the companies which the following Telephone: 01584 711207 telephone numbers refer to; Fax: 01584 711962 a. 0161 763 7060 Mobile: 07785 342443 SPORTSTURF DRAINAGE SPECIALISTS Email: [email protected] b. 01771 633777 Art ngton * Latest Sportsturf trenching machinery GOLF LTD * Verti Draining * Sand Slitting * Overseeding * Gravel Banding * Top dressing C. 01260 281801 Specialist If your Weeds look bad, and it don't look good, Design, installation and malntainence service Write down your three answers on a Golf Course Constructors Who you gonna call... Tel: 01257 255321 Fax: 01257 255327 postcard and send your entries to:- Appley Bridge, Wigan, Lanes CONSTRUCTOR Tel: (023) 9259 2390 Know Your Numbers, Greenkeeper Fax: (023) 9257 0218 International, BIGGA HOUSE, Mobile: 07710 450454 Aldwark, Alne, York Y061 1 UF <3 MEMBER www.artington-golf.co.uk Entries to reach us no later than Email: [email protected] Wednesday, July 18, 2001. The first correct entry drawn will receive WEE a stylish BIGGA Sportswatch! SPECIALIST WEED CONTROL CONTRACTORS TEL/FAX: 01752 336060 The judges decision is final. No MOBILE: 07970 894616 Specialists in land drainage, correspondence will be entered into. WWW.WEEDBIJSTERS.CO.UK golf course construction and This competition is not open to CONTOUR maintenance BIGGA staff or non-members. Artificial Grass GOLF • LIMITED Construction of new golf development M J ABBOTT LIMITED Last month, Neil Oliver, from North and upgrading of existing courses Bratch Lane, Dinton, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP3 5EB Manchester GC, certainly knew his Tel: 01722 716361 • Fax: 01722 716828 numbers when he correctly identified VERDE SPORTS ! Tel: 01327 879464 all three telephone numbers. Fax: 01327 705777 LIMITED 1 Jubilee Cottages, Norton Rd, Our congratulations and a a fantastic Tefc 01254 831666 Fax: 01254 831066 BIGGA sportswatch are on their way V T» Daventry, Northants NN11 5LS Keep your greens to you! Irish Office no. 064 39965 • VERDE TEE FRAME t IhI0PE N ALL Steel platform, woven grass top • VERDE WINTER TEE Generous size, self-install kit YEAR! • VERDE DRIVING MATS ^ _ jMk • Revolutionary new Top Quality - Long Life - Best Prices 2000 Limited nwpr^pf^ reconstruvtion of greens • ARTIFICIAL GRASSES • Fraction of the cost of traditional drainage Comprehensive range for pathways, • Construction • Remodelling winter tees and putting Recent contracts include: Market Drayton, Trentham, • Reservoir Works • DRIVING BAYS & NETS Chase and Sandfield Golf & Driving Range For club and home use Tel: 01604 468908 DESIGN - INSTALLATION - SERVICELI Gabbotts Farm Barn, Bury Lane, Fax: 01604 474853 Withnell, Chorley, Lancashire PR6 8SW NORTH STAFFS IRRIGATION LTD1 www.verdesports.com email: [email protected] www.deltagolf2000.co.uk Consulting Watering/Drainage Specialists ^ Please call for samples & information 180 Ruskin Road, Kingsthorpe, E-mail: [email protected] Ì ' Northampton NN2 7TA 01785 8127061 Irrigation M J ABBOTT LIMITED • 4 é Drainage. 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Telephone: +44 (0) 1425 474614 Fax: +44 (0) 1425 471296 Installation. White Horse Contractors http:// www.misc.irrig.co.uk Limited e mail: [email protected] !P I Service. Liners for lakes, ponds and Established 42 years storage lagoons from the Evenproducts UK's leading contractor SPECIALIST SPORTS TURF CONTRACTORS 'jfrfr Water for Life ONGAR, ESSEX 01277 890274 Comprehensive advice IRRIGATION regarding design and • DRAINAGE by HUNTER construction of water areas • CONSTRUCTION . RENOVATION äzal Tel: 01206 262676 Fax: 01206 262998 • LAKES & RESERVOIRS E-mail: [email protected] • DESIGN & BUILD www.geosynthetic.co.uk • CONSULTANCY from Tel: 01865 736 272 EVENPRODUCTS LTD WATERPROOFING Fax: 01865 326 176 Tel: 0138641212 Fax: 01386 423769 T&G _ for Information and Advice www.whitehorsecontractors.co.uk IRRIGATION

Lodge Hill, Abingdon, Oxon OX14 2JD Golf Course and Sports Turf SERVICES Irrigation Technical Services Irrigation since 1984 POND & LAKE Design • Supply • Installation • Service oakdale.uk.com Pumps and tanks supplied [email protected] LINING SPECIALISTS Moleplough & trencher hire ••BMP Phone: 01427 874200 CONTACT US ON All leading manufacturers equipment sen/iced AREA DEALER Fax: 01427 875333 Tel: 01202 87.42.16 Mobile: 07831 24.22.05 TEL: 01249 655539 Design, installation and maintenance FAX: 01525 261103 TO EMAIL: [email protected] www.bigga.org ^ é Irrigation Line Marking I^Systems Golf Mats wBk For Golf Courses SportsCourts Sports 1 UK Limited Suppliers of all line marking materials:- Exclusive Leisure Ltd, Grounds One of the most professional Design, Supply and installation services in the North. • Ready to use line marking paint ^t'ff . 28 Cannock Street, Leicester; LE4 S th'iwmm Bowling Greens Trained in Golf Course management, with real • Transfer wheel applicators L-M Tel: 0II6 233 2255 • Cost effective solutions knowledge of irrigation and Golf Course needs. • 750ml Aerosols with a selection of colours to your irrigation problems ^Bet! c Fax: 0II6 246 I56I • Indépendant professional advice ^ Effortless irrigation with minimum inconvenience. • Aerosol Applicators DESIGN - INSTALLATION - SERVICE \ Call now on: 01405 814889 • Prices on request NORTH STAFFS IRRIGATION LTlx Mobile: 07967 504313 Tel: 01 327 340333 Consulting Watering/Drainage Specialists www.watersideirrigation.co.uk E-mail: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Fax: 01 327 341053 riGER T GOLF MATS' ¿fon U be amazeb where we up! Email: [email protected] 01785 8 • 27Q6 r Quality mats for winter tees, practice areas and driving ranges. Any size up to 3m x 3m. Turf Dressings Machinery RAILWAY SLEEPERS I WOODEN AND CONCRETE SLEEPERS LOVÊE LTD I BEST PRICES ON ALL GRADES AND SIZES QUARRYft CONCRET E PRODUCTS BAILEY S OF NORFOLK I CROSSING TIMBERS, TELEGRAPH POLES •fr GOLF TURF DRESSINGS SAND I NEW AND SECONDHAND QUALITY Producers of all types of quality £ SCREENED TOP SOIL ti FEN SOIL I A QUALITY ASSURED COMPANY specialist sands and top dressing Deliveries Nationwide I NATIONWIDE DELIVERY for Golf Courses, Playing Fields AASSURED BAILEY'S OF NORFOLK and Sports Pitches THOUSANDS IN STOCK Tel: 01603 754607 Used groundcare equipment Cowbog, New Pitsligo, Fraserburgh, Tel: 01302 365222 Aberdeenshire, AB43 6PR Wide selection available Fax: 01302 341691 Vertidraining Hire TRACKWORK LTD Tel 01771 653777 w.tr»ckwork.co.uk & www.railwaysleepers.uk.com Fax: 01771 653527 DOUBLE A Email: [email protected] Prestonhall Industrial Estate, Cupar, Fife A MOORE Root Zone TURF MANAGEMENT Tel: 01334 657602 CONTRACTORS www.doublea.co.uk BANKS AMENITY PRODUCTS LTD Specialist in vertidraining, direct seeding, SUPPLIERS OF BRITAIN'S NO 1 FOR over seeding for all sports grounds and FEN DRESS™ ROOTZONE TO USGA QUALITY AND SERVICE golf courses, plus all cultivation work ECONOMY ROOTZONE TOP DRESSING • CONSTRUCTION PIVOT MIXES ROOT ZONES and turf laying and spraying. GRASS FOR A COMPETITIVE QUOTATION CALL SANDS • GRAVELS • GRASS SEED MACHINERY OI858 464346 / 433003 SOIL • PATHWAY MATERIALS Tel: 01530 836893 Eaton Hall Quarry, Manchester Rd, \ Mobile: 07889 771341 Large selection oi new and Congleton, Cheshire CW12 2LU second hand Turi Maintenance Sports Netting Machinery in stock. Tel: 01260 281801

FREE DELIVERY IN UK. PETER MANNINGTON Warranty given. Also interested in purchasing surplus machines. Tel/Fax: 01829 720280 Mobile: 0378 063418 » TARGET GREENS Specialist Verti-Drain Contractor for the South » ANTI-BALL PLUGGING NETS Mole Control For greens, tees, fairways and sportsgrounds Trenchers Experienced operator, competitive prices and reliable service » PADDED & NET BAY DIVIDERS Tel/Fax Peter on 01580 861211 or Mobile 07850 612061 MOLE CONTROL • BUNKER MEMBRANE TRADITIONAL METHODS USED AF TRENCHERS LTD 1 White Horse Cottages, Silverhill, Hurst Green, Etchingham, East Sussex TN19 7QA North of England covered » PERIMETER FENCING Tel: 01787 311811 Fax: 01787 310888 E-mail: [email protected] Call Arrest-A-Pest • BALL-STOP NET Web site: www.trenchers.co.uk Tel: 01484 684844 CONTACT THE • ANTI-DAZZLE NETTING • Manufacturers of trenching machines PROFESSIONALS . FR

FINETURF PRODUCTS Top Dressings Tel: 01375 361606 TT ProTurf BANKS AMENITY PRODUCTS LTD EXCLUSIVE MANUFACTURERS OF RAILWAY FENDRESS GREENTOP™ & GROWERS 1 FEN DRESS™ TOP DRESSINGS AND SUPPLIERS SUPERIOR, CONSISTENT TOP DRESSINGS AT OF QUALITY CULTIVATED r AFFORDABLE PRICES vvfe, TEES, GREENS AND AMENITY TEL: 01302 888676 FAX: 01302 880547 \?CA " TURF COUNTRYWIDE TEL: 01858 464346 / 433003 nj-VJi, J ju •WE MILL BEAT* TEL: 01427 890797 ANY Silliliil CJjJ I Hi GENUINE !BOURNE i FAX: 01427 891785 Visit our website at QUOTE Email: [email protected] Manufacturers of quality dressings, including www+bissa«ors»uk www.sleeper-supplies.co.uk green organic, fensoil & loams, for fairways, and check out the greens & tees, in loads of all sizes Crossing Timbers, 4'x 4" Posts Serving the South of England. TT ProTurf Ltd latest chat from the and Telegraph Pofes Tel: (01797) 252298 Fax: (01797) 253115 greenkeeping industry Classified Job Shop FREE online Job Shop Ads!

If you didnt already know, BIGGA upload all recruitment advertising from the pages of Greenkeeper 31 year old Head Greenkeeper International to coincide with the launch of each issue. Many Greenkeeper members have found the online with 12 years experience in recruitment section to be of great benefit particularly if they have left their magazine at work! They can simply greenkeeping. Qualified to NVQ Scottish Golf Course Manager log on at home, to the BIGGA website, and access all of the latest jobs available in the fine turf industry. Also, if a level 4 Management, including seeks new challenge either member is looking for employment, their advert will appear in this database for prospective employers to read. home or abroad. Spraying, Chainsaw and First Aid Any member who has found themselves out of work as a direct result of the Foot and Mouth Outbreak may wish Experienced in growing-in, as certificate. Excellent motivation, to take advantage of the BIGGA websiite to help find another club. As a special service to members the supervisory skills and computer well as all other aspects of Association will allow you to post a Job Shop advert on the website, listing your experience and qualifications, literate. Experience in formulating greenkeeping, including offering your services free of charge. Further information can be obtained from the Sales & Marketing Department at BIGGA HOUSE Tel: 01347 833800 email: [email protected] & working to agreed budget, construction, drainage, irrigation managing staff, resources and and machinery maintenance. Please note: This offer onty applies to website adverts and not those which you wish to appear in Greenkeeper International. presentation to highest standards. Qualified to HNC level Seeks challenging new position Please print clearly, and keep your entry to under 100 words. all locations considered. JS/125/01 JS/126/01 ONLINE RECRUITMENT

OFFICE USE ONLY . »Check out, JSW Name www.bigga.org.uk Club/Company * Address —

f Tel: Fax: or the latest. Email: Send your completed order form to: Jennifer Whichello, Cheryl Broomhead or Meredith Foster, Greenkeeper International, BIGGA HOUSE, Aldwark, Alne, York YO61 lUF, or fax the form to us M on 01347 833802. Alternatively, you can also email your copy to [email protected] From thvacanciee fineturf industrRecruitmensy t KNOLE PARK GOLF CLUB LANGDON HILLS GOLF CENTRE

Require an Requires a ASSISTANT DEPUTY HEAD GREENKEEPER GREENKEEPER Applicants should have appropriate qualifications Applicants should be qualified to minimum NVQ2 with inclusive of spraying certificate. Knowledge of machinery Spraying Certificates PA1A, PA2 & PA6. and irrigation systems would be an advantage.

Salary negotiable according to experience. Apply with C.V.to; Applications in writing with CV to:

The Secretary, Knole Park Golf Club, Head Greenkeeper, Langdon Hills Golf Centre, Seal Hollow Road, Sevenoaks, Kent, TN15 OHJ Lower Dunton Road, Bulphan, Essex RM14 3TY

Sutton Green Golf Club TOWER GOLF CLUB, GDANSK, POLAND Require an Tower Golf Club, Gdansk, Poland are seeking a Head Greenkeeper or Assistant Assistant Greenkeeper Greenkeeper (willing to take on the responsibilities of a Head Greenkeeper). BIGGA qualified individuals are preferred and should send a CV to the following address; Attn. Al Brasseaux, Tower Golf Club, ul. Wladyslawa IV We are looking for an enthusiastic and hard working greenkeeper 13C, 80-547 Gdansk, Poland or via e-mail, [email protected] to join our existing team.

NVQ Level 2 with PAI, 2 and 6 qualifications preferred. The individual selected will be responsible for the co-ordination and construction of the golf course (presently under construction) and the Salary in line with BIGGA rates training of local nationals. A willingness to learn the Polish language and No accommodation communicate with management is a must.

Apply in writing with full CV to: A competitive salary, accommodation and transport will be provided. Nathan Kimsing, Head Greenkeeper The deadline for entries is 15 July 2001. Sutton Green Golf Club, New Lane, Guildford, Surrey GU4 7QF Recruitment

SCOTSCRAIG GOLF CLUB EST 1817

Invites applications for the position of

COURSE ROYAL BLACKHEATH GOLF CLUB IS A PRIVATE MEMBERS CLUB, INSTITUTED IN 1608

MANAGER WE CURRENTLY REQUIRE A Scotscraig Golf Club is one of the oldest golf clubs in the country, and is currently on The Royal & Ancient list of Final Qualifying courses for "The Open". This is a new appointment and offers an exciting and challenging position. HEAD The successful candidate will be a fully qualified greenkeeper who can demonstrate ability in forward planning, budgeting, organisation, man management, interpersonal and communications skills. The Club have recently installed a full irrigation system with computer GREENKEEPER control and a skill in this area is also essential. FOR OUR 18-HOLE PARKLAND COURSE An attractive remuneration package will be available to the right candidate. The successful applicant will possess the appropriate qualifications and be experienced in all aspects of golf course management, Applications which will be treated in strictest confidence, should include a detailed with skills to supervise an established greenkeeping team. career history to date, current salary, and references, and sent to: Excellent salary and conditions available to right applicant.

Barrie D. Liddle, Managing Secretary, Scotscraig Golf Club, Applications in writing, together with your C.V Golf Road, Tayport, Fife DD6 9DZ should be addressed to:

Closing date for applications - 6th August 2001 The Secretary, Royal Blackheath Golf Club, A full job description is available upon request. Court Road, London SE95 5AP

£ Attractive Marketing Directors+ benefits Could you maximise your company's online jrr presence for your primary target audience? m

BIGGA's online statistics have revealed the most viewed area on our website to be the recruitment section. — BIGGA Regularly receiving an average of 1,355 individual user session visits every month, this area of the BIGGA website has, in fact, received over 12,220 individual user session visits since its' relaunch just 9 months ago. Opportunities now exist for creative, forward thinking professionals to utilise their knowledge and skills to implement a strong marketing presence within this rapidly expanding commercial area. We are looking for candidates who can see the long-term potential of building strong links with the Association, and understand the importance of targetted marketing. Previous experience of handling advertising budgets is desirable. Attractive financial packages will be dependent on experience, but monthly sponsorship rates for successful candidates will start at £400 per single month sponsorship, rising to £1,000 following a successful 3 month sponsorship period. Benefits will include: Your 'brand' being associated with a proven market-leader; The ability to entice more than 1,355 potential online customers to your site every month; Increased traffic to your site.

For further information please surf to: www.bigga.org.uk/opportunities.html For an application form, please contact Jennifer Whichello on 01347 833800 or email [email protected] All applications will be treated in the strictest confidence. Closing date for applications: August 14,2001 Recruitment

THE LOIS DON GOL CLUB ASSISTANT ABRIDGE GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB GREENKEEPER Require an The London Golf Club is one of the premier complexes in Europe, ASSISTANT with two championship courses designed by Jack Nicklaus and his company Golden Bear. Set in 650 acres of the Kent countryside, the club is situated 25 miles south of London. Equipped with the latest machinery and one of the most modern GREENKEEPER maintenance facilities in the industry, the successful applicant will For their mature 18 hole parkland course. experience high standards of greenkeeping, with excellent training provision. The position presents great opportunities for the right Applicants should have a minimum of two years person to progress, in our 30 man team. experience and have NVQ Level 2 or equivalent. We are looking for an enthusiastic, conscientious and self motivated Spraying certificates an advantage. greenkeeper with experience. Salary in line with the Standing Committee Applicants should hold, or be looking to gain relevant qualifications. minimum recommendations. Remuneration will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. Apply with full CV to Please apply in writing by 6th August enclosing a full C.V to;

Mr Peter Todd, Golf Courses Manager, The London Golf Club PLC, The Manager, Abridge Golf & Country Club, South Ash Manor Estate, Ash, Sevenoaks, Kent TN15 7EN Epping Lane, Stapleford Tawney, Essex, RM4 1ST

SOUTH HEREFORDSHIRE GOLF CLUB PENRITH PENRITH Requires a G -fife HEAD GREENKEEPER \1890 7 [GOLF CLUB] Requires a To work on 18 hole course with an attached 9 hole Par 3 and 16 bay Driving Range. The ideal applicant should possess NVQ Level 3 and have experience at a supervisory level in their current/past position. Salary to be discussed. Accommodation available. HEAD Please send your CV to;

Roger Lee, South Herefordshire Golf Club, Twin Lakes, Upton Bishop, GREENKEEPER Nr. Ross-on-Wye, Herefordshire HR9 7UA Penrith Golf Club which was founded in 1890 is a private members club and is situated in a splendid location between the delights of the Eden Valley in Cumbria and the majesty of the Lakeland hills which provide a magnificent backdrop to this par 69 course. The successful applicant must be self-motivated with suitable experience and sound knowledge of all turf maintenance practices. They will have overall responsibility for the course and should be equipped to develop budgets, work schedules, course and machinery maintenance plans and have strong man management and motivation skills to manage a small team of five. Free golf membership will be available and remuneration will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. No accommodation available. Please apply in writing including CV to;

The Secretary, Penrith Golf Club, Salkeld Road, Penrith, Cumbria CA11 8SG Signs are here to stay and Sandy McDivot has made full use of an array of such notices at Sludgecombe Pay and Play.

of the times

that a carefully worded sign placed in meant the sign has become to me parents because they are too ugly and a certain position would help ensure what the shoe is to Imelda Marcos. should therefore of been aware of the the prevention of the odd accident or My course has become flooded with likelihood of their offspring suffering two. He was apparendy oblivious to them. If we are spraying, signs are put the same fate, then I do get a little the fact that just such a sign had been out that not only warn of the perils anxious. in the very place he mentioned for of the murderous chemicals that we Of course such obsessive pursuit of the previous 12 months. are applying, but also advise that damages can have its uses. A finan- You see the fact is, golfers notice those that suspect themselves of being cial advisor friend recently informed only a very few things when playing susceptible to the effects of these evil me that anyone requiring instant golf. They see the golf ball, they form toxins should effectively go home and wealth should break his or her leg in in their minds eye a straight line to never return. I have learnt that there an American airport. Apparently such that golf ball ana if that line crosses are many who have convinced them- accidents result in an immediate, no a directive in the form of a white line, selves that within the spray tank we quibble, out of court settlement of sign or rope that suggests they take a have concocted a cocktail of dioxin about a million pounds sterling these detour from that line, they fail to and botulin in a plutonium carrier days. This one seemed to get Mrs make visual contact with it. Often and so I err on the side of caution. McDivot somewhat excited, although I suppose if I was to be brutally frank they notice such things as the noisy I have not as yet felt the need to I was not altogether sure whom sne with myself and using management machine that a greenkeeper is work- post those gory skin disease pho- thought would meet with this unfor- consultant's parlance, 1 would nave to ing with on an adjacent fairway but tographs that can be found within the tunate accident. be classified as a resistor to change. rarely have any awareness of the near- pages of "The Lancet" as evidence of But the mere act of putting a sign But as I enter the realms of dodder- by busy roaa or the jet aeroplanes the consequences of straying within up does not necessarily mean immu- ing senility, even I have to occasionally overhead. the two mile total exclusion zone that nity from prosecution. In fact I do not make way for the unstoppable Often on a ladies' day I have been surrounds the sprayer, but who knows discount the probability of the day momentum of change. instructed that no greenkeeper will be what the future will bring. arriving when we are sued for the For example, it was not many years allowed within a nve-mile radius of But other areas come in for the sign entire wealth of ourselves and the next ago that I was totally convinced that the golf course, but to my knowledge treatment. Slopes, adjacent fairways, 20 generations of our families, computers had little place in the lives they have not yet rang up our coun- blind shots, bridges, you name it, at because a golf ball has rebounded off of we greenkeepers. Today however I ty's international airports to inform Sludgecombe Pay and Play there's a one such warning sign and caused per- have come to the conclusion that them that due to their Summer warning sign for just about every- manent disfigurement to someone in greenkeeping life without them would Invitational the days flights will have thing. In snort, I have come to treat the form of a slight bruise. be all but impossible. to be suspended. the sign as something of an insurance There are other ways our signage Another item that I have in the past So you see the purpose of the sign policy against legal action. The way I could result in a visit to court. For had little regard for is the sign. I have had always seemed to me to be some- see it is, if McDonalds can be suc- example there is the question of the always possessed the deeply held what superfluous. But I write in the cessfully prosecuted for a million call through hole. This is a great belief that being artificial they detract past tense as like the computer I have dollars or so because their coffee was favourite among committee men and greatly from the aesthetic appeal of now arrived at the conclusion that too hot, then I am sure we green- women and involves a sign request- the golf courses that we so painstak- signs can play a very important role keepers are vulnerable to similar legal ing that people call the following ingly help to create. I also believe that in the lives of we greenkeepers. The pursuance. group through when reaching a par they have little actual value as a means reason for my about turn, is the trend Now I have to confess I have not three green. The theory behind this of passing on information to the golf- in more recent years towards litiga- lost too much sleep over Mr one is that they are in some way ing public. For example, a venerable tion. The fear of prosecution and McDonalds' misfortune but when speeding up play. This may or may former Captain once suggested to me associated public humiliation has you hear cases of children suing their not be the case but what the sign is really saying is when you get near to the green you are required to invite the next group of golfers to hit golf balls at you. Now I don't know about you but in my humble opinion that is just asking for trouble. A golf course near to me has an array of signs just about everywhere. As you drive into the car park, the first one you see states visitors must only park in the rear car park. This immediately gives the impression that visitors are an unwelcome parasite that are not worthy of the car park adjacent to the clubhouse but instead have to hide their beaten up old bangers around the back so as not to offend ly witnessed nine of them exit this some five hundred yards distant. entirely unrelated. The poor appren- the members. The next one you see world, so what would happen at this To such golfers the concept of tice then worked his way through the tells you that mobile phones are not club, if while at the far end of the numerical order is often a difficult one bunkers on the Old and then onto allowed in the car park, clubhouse, course someone suffered a heart to grasp and so they require signage those of the New Course. It appeared golf course or any of the vertical air- attack and required urgent medical to direct them to the correct part of the actual Sunningdale greenkeepers space above the same. attention. If due to the prohibition of the course. I remember the story of who witnessed this, did not inform This requirement was confirmed to mobiles that person dies while their how two visiting Americans once the hapless apprentice of his errors. me when someone I was with, acci- partner risks his or her own life in played golf at Royal St George's only They reasoned that he was doing dentally had his go off while in the running back to the clubhouse to to stray mid round onto the neigh- such a fine job of raking their bunkers pro shop. He was immediately fetch help, then what is the clubs legal bouring Princes Golf Club. Amazingly why would they want to stop him. pounced upon by irate members and position. they finished the round, had lunch in But no matter how many signs we thoroughly admonished for bringing Surely they were aware of the poten- the wrong clubhouse and only realised ut out, we can never cover ourselves these symbols of Lucifer into their tial threat to life that they could be something was wrong when they g•or every eventuality. A quick glance temple. But the thing about this posing by the implementation of this could not find their car in the car park. through the pages of Golfers course, was that it was located in a ban. Would they then be open to pros- Then there was the unfortunate case Handbook reveals that two women retirement area and had a steep slope ecution? of the poorly directed newly appoint- once died on the course when an aero- at its furthest reaches affectionately Of course signs on golf courses are ed greenkeeper at Sunningdale plane hit them. In another three known as "Cardiac Hill" due to the not only used to warn of potential Ladies' Golf Club who was asked to separate cases, golfers have died when number of elderly members who while danger. They are also needed as a rake bunkers. their golf shafts have broken mid climbing up it had finally succeeded means of direction. I am sure I am not He would of benefited greatly from swing, rebounded off inanimate in conquering their habit of living. alone in witnessing golfers walking a direction sign as somehow after rak- objects and plunged into their bodies. The membership was to put it mild- onto a tee adjacent to the preceding ing the bunkers on the Ladies course Now try doing a risk assessment on ly, getting on a bit. In fact the worry green and not quite being able to work he managed to end up on the Old those! was, an especially harsh winter could out how according to the card, the course at Sunningdale. This is a course that apart from bor- Sandy McDivot, Head Greenkeeper, wipe half of them out in one go. Now hole they face should be a short par Sludgecombe Pay and Play the Head Greenkeeper had personal- three when all they can see is a green dering the Ladies Club was otherwise Feature listing ^SLSEE IT-AS/SCF/ from July '99 O July '99; Carnoustie. Golf Course Furniture, Spike Research, Toro Chairman profile, BIGGA Silent Auction August '99; Viscount Whitelaw s*. °-U 33S I SV tribute; Open review; Merrist Wood; Saltex preview; Turf; Trees; Grass Cutting; BIGGA Golf Day review; Redexim profile

September '99; Slaley Hall; Tyres; Spotlight on Thatch; Elmwood College Awards; National Championship preview

October '99; The Manor House, Castle Combe; Aeration; Saltex Don't. review; Mycorrhizas; Toro Award preview

November '99; Sir Michael Bonallack interview; The Pines GC; Oil; Bunkers; National Championship

December '99; Agronomy; Security; Environment Competition Winner; Toro Award Winners

January 2000; Greens Construction; Awkward Jobs; Sandy McDivot; Agronomy; Toro Award review

February 2000; BTME2000 review; Committed to Green interview; Rookery Park GC; Engines; Chairman's profile; Environmental Management

March 2000; Cleobury Mortimer GC; Course Furniture; R8A Conference Report; Cutting heights; Avoncrop profile; Valderrama report; Westurf preview I firmly believe that nature April 2000; Fortrose & Rosemarkie GC; Utility Vehicles; Irrigation; Seed breeding; will sort itself out and I Gem Professional profile. would urge everyone within May 2000; Ross-on-Wye GC; Top Dressing; Course Mapping; Compact our industry to remain calm. Tractors

June 2000; National Championship A good summer season from preview; Spraying; World Education Conference review; Environmental now on will help to put Management; Mowers everyone in a positive mood. July 2000; Open Championship Preview; Dougal Duguid Court Case Report; Pest Control; Aventis profile; Course Conditioning August 2000; Open Championship Hopefully you double cutting the greens. So much review; Water Features; Saltex preview; Charcoal; Malone GC; Royal County all enjoyed it and activity, all before a golfer set foot on Down; Grand Tour Scholarship can earn enough the place. I was also able to enjoy some September 2000; Blowers and Brownie points at of the wildlife with a heron flying over Sweepers; Berkshire College Academy; home between the course. I loved being able to watch National Championship roundup; Gordon now and next year the goings on wearing a different hat, McKillop interview; Winter health checks to be able to do the so to speak. October 2000; Toro Awards Preview; same in 2002. Talking about last month's magazine Ronald Fream; Irrigation; Saltex Review; On my own I was interested in the Stoke Park Club Pest Control; Wobum GC patch we held a article and delighted to see a golf club November 2000; Grass Cutting We are now well into the golfing sea- Surrey Section event at North Hants becoming a member of the Golden Key Machinery; Clandeboye GC; Drainage; son, we've already had the Volvo PGA National Championship review; Golf Club. I know it sounds as though Supporter of the Association. Leatherjacket management Championship at Wentworth and we it shouldn't belong to the Surrey Hopefully this will start a new trend are looking forward to The Open at December 2000; Toro Awards; Section but it is only just over the coun- and we as an Association and the game Making the most of your Dealer; Budget Royal Lytham and St Annes. ty border. The greens were in fantastic in general can only benefit from that. Boosters; BTME2001 preview; BIGGA/ The Support Team at Wentworth, condition and a real credit to Nigel I believe that Stoke Park Club has Bemhards CGSA delegation preview operating for the first time over all four Stainer and his team who had done a shown real foresight. January 2001 ; Communication; Tyres; days, was a huge success and everyone, great job. It was also good to see Doug On a more general note it is disap- Turf diseases; Kingsbarns Golf Links; particularly Regional Administrator Fernie, of Epsom Downs Golf Club, pointing to see that Foot and Mouth Environment Competition Winner - Dyke Derek Farrington, should be warmly GC; Talking Heads - Pest Control enjoying himself during the day It is a has not gone away yet with more cas- congratulated of their efforts. His tough time for him this time every year es being discovered in Yorkshire. I February 2001; BTME2001 review; Midland colleague, Peter Larter, also Winter Mowing; Irrigation; Broadstone as his course is taken over for the run- firmly believe that nature will sort itself GC; Hedges; Security turned up to help out and we were all ning of The Derby with cars parked all out and I would urge everyone within grateful for his support as well. over the course. March 2001 ; York GC; Greens our industry to remain calm. A good Maintenance; Meland GC, Norway; Fortunately their work was confined My next port of call was Drumoig summer season from now on will help Greens Mowers; BIGGA Essay Winner; to raking bunkers and not squeegeeing Hotel and Golf Club, which is also to put everyone in a positive mood. Grass Science profile but I know that Chris Kennedy appre- home to the Scottish Golf Centre. It April 2001 ; Lightning detection; ciated the fart that the team was there was great to meet up with old friends Brockett Hall GC; CGSA report; Fairway for such work if it were needed. and meet so many new faces. Mowers; Irrigation; Sward renovation; I was most impressed by the salu- BIGGA Essay winner; Turf Disease I stayed overnight in the hotel which brious hospitality facility that the Tour overlooks the course which meant I May 2001 ; Foot and Mouth Disease gave the team as its base. Overlooking Special Report; Maintenance Facility had a grand stand seat when all the report; Bunker Sand; ATVs; RainBird the 18th green and air conditioned we morning preparation work got under- Profile; Fineturf Genetics; BTME2002 could not have wished for better. way It started when I was woken by countdown; Electric-powered machines But I can't overstate the thanks due the sound of the sprinklers starting up June 2001 ; Stoke Park Club profile; to the members who gave four days at 3am and before long, I could watch Clive Osgood, Chairman Stuart Cagle MG; Tractors; Leaf Spot out of their lives, particularly over a all the normal tasks being carried out ~ e; Take All Patch; Construction bank holiday, to work on the team. - hole changing, cutting the surrounds, Bringing the industry together - from the ground up

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