15 weeks to BTME GREENKEEPER INTERNATIONAL GI Published by the British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association OCTOBER 2014

Inside... FLEXIBLE WORKING How changes in the law could affect you

PHOTO COMP RESULTS BIGGA Members’ top 12 inside O’Neill nails it Muswell Hill’s Kevin O’Neill rounds off 25 years of Toro winners

ALSO INSIDE... MACHINERY TIPS : PROBLEM WEEDS : BASIS WELCOME FROM BIGGA

BIGGA

BIGGA President Sir Michael Bonallack, OBE

BIGGA Board of Management Chairman Chris Sealey Vice Chairman Les Howkins BIGGA Past Chairman Tony Smith BIGGA Board Members Rob Welford, Stuart Greenwood, Arnold Phipps-Jones, Jeremy Hughes, Kenny MacKay, George Barr, John Keenaghan

BIGGA Chief Executive Officer Jim Croxton

BIGGA General Manager Tracey Maddison [email protected]

BIGGA Head of Member Development Sami Strutt EVERY COURSE. [email protected] Contact Us BIGGA House, Aldwark, Alne, York, YO61 1UF [email protected] www.bigga.org.uk EVERY HOLE. Tel – 01347 833800 | Fax – 01347 833801 Gleneagles a greenkeeping triumph GREENKEEPER INTERNATIONAL Well the Ryder Cup certainly lived up expenses paid trip to BTME including four The official monthly magazine of the to expectations! An enthralling match days’ education. They certainly have a fantastic British and International Golf Greenkeepers featuring golf of the highest quality, programme to choose from. EVERY DAY. Association Limited. incredible individual performances and Production unbelievably enthusiastic supporters was The Continue to Learn brochure is Design & Brand Executive played out over a course in immaculate enclosed with this magazine and the Tom Campbell condition prepared magnificently by education on offer totals a record 215 Tel – 01347 833800 Scott Fenwick, Steve Chappell and their hours this year, very nearly double what ext 513 excellent Gleneagles team. was on offer only eight years ago. [email protected] The team was supported by a 40-strong BTME has always had a learning and Editorial volunteer crew - many of whom are Gleneagles development focus but that has increased Communications Executive greenkeeping alumni - bringing the total squad markedly over the last few years. We expect Steve Castle for the week to nearly 100. demand to be high for the combination of Tel – 01347 833800 ext 510 Jamie Donaldson’s extraordinary wedge workshops, conferences and seminars so don’t steve.castle shot to the 15th green provided a fitting climax delay in booking your place. The one-day Turf @bigga.co.uk to a week in which Captain Paul McGinley Managers Conference on Monday 19 January Advertising was repeatedly praised for his planning and is set to be a particular highlight with a mix of Business attention to detail. The same could absolutely agronomy, research and management topics Development Manager be said for Scott, Steve and all their team and as well as a session on customer expectations Jill Rodham Tel – 01347 833800 I am particularly looking forward to hearing and experience, an aspect of the profession that ext 519 about the finer detail during the seminar is critical as our sport competes for attention in Fax – 01347 833802 [email protected] programme at BTME 2015 in January. the modern world. Our ambition is to provide an educational Printing ONE BRAND Warners Midlands Plc, The Maltings, Manor One member of the volunteer team has programme of interest to all BIGGA members Lane, Bourne, Lincolnshire PE10 9PH Tel – 01778 391000 | Fax – 01778 394269 had a month to remember as only a few at every stage of their career and I firmly believe OF TURF EQUIPMENT days before arriving in Gleneagles, Kevin we have achieved that for 2015. In 2014 nearly ® Contents may not be reprinted or otherwise Pebble Beach uses only Jacobsen turf equipment on every inch of every hole. From ECLIPSE2 and reproduced without written permission. O’Neill from Muswell Hill clinched the 2,800 individuals took part in the programme ECLIPSE® 322 walking and riding greens mowers to LF550™ fairway mowers and AR522 and AR722T Return postage must accompany all 26th Toro Student Greenkeeper of the and this year we hope to see that number grow materials submitted if return is requested. No contour rotaries, the fi ve courses of Pebble Beach trust Jacobsen to maintain all its precious turf. responsibility can be assumed for unsolicited Year award. to over 3,000 for the first time. I look forward to materials. The right is reserved to edit I would like to publicly congratulate Kevin seeing you in Harrogate. So why does one of the world’s most famous golf destinations choose Jacobsen turf equipment submissions before publication. Although every care will be taken, no and the five other finalists, the standard was year after year? It’s quite simple: Jacobsen is the only turf equipment that can provide the responsibility is accepted for loss of incredibly high throughout. world-class conditions Pebble Beach is known for. manuscripts, photographs or artwork. Opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the The night before the final, Toro held a special Association, and no responsibility is accepted For more information about Jacobsen or to fi nd a Jacobsen dealer near you, visit for such content, advertising or product celebration at Aldwark Manor to recognise www.ransomesjacobsen.com. information that may appear. Circulation is by 25 years of the award and it was a thrill to subscription. Subscription rate: UK £50 per year, Europe and Eire £65, Rest of the World see 22 previous winners in attendance. Toro £95. The magazine is also distributed to BIGGA . members, golf clubs, local authorities, the turf have been steadfast in their support of BIGGA industry, libraries and central government. and greenkeeper education for which we are extremely grateful. All of the winners have progressed through FOR A LEGENDARY PERFORMANCE the industry over the years and I am confident ON YOUR COURSE, CALL 01473 270000 this year’s finalists will do likewise. Kevin is now looking forward to the intense study course at UMASS in America whilst the www.ransomesjacobsen.com ISSN: 0961– 6977 two runners up Tom Freeman and Wesley Enjoy the read. © 2013 British and International Golf Jim Croxton, BIGGA CEO GI/PB2/10/2014 Greenkeepers Association Limited Lenihan will receive, courtesy of Toro, an all

@BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 GI 3

Pebble Beach 2 A4.indd 1 02/09/2014 16:01 WELCOME FROM BIGGA

BIGGA

BIGGA President Sir Michael Bonallack, OBE

BIGGA Board of Management Chairman Chris Sealey Vice Chairman Les Howkins BIGGA Past Chairman Tony Smith BIGGA Board Members Rob Welford, Stuart Greenwood, Arnold Phipps-Jones, Jeremy Hughes, Kenny MacKay, George Barr, John Keenaghan

BIGGA Chief Executive Officer Jim Croxton

BIGGA General Manager Tracey Maddison [email protected]

BIGGA Head of Member Development Sami Strutt EVERY COURSE. [email protected] Contact Us BIGGA House, Aldwark, Alne, York, YO61 1UF [email protected] www.bigga.org.uk EVERY HOLE. Tel – 01347 833800 | Fax – 01347 833801 Gleneagles a greenkeeping triumph GREENKEEPER INTERNATIONAL Well the Ryder Cup certainly lived up expenses paid trip to BTME including four The official monthly magazine of the to expectations! An enthralling match days’ education. They certainly have a fantastic British and International Golf Greenkeepers featuring golf of the highest quality, programme to choose from. EVERY DAY. Association Limited. incredible individual performances and Production unbelievably enthusiastic supporters was The Continue to Learn brochure is Design & Brand Executive played out over a course in immaculate enclosed with this magazine and the Tom Campbell condition prepared magnificently by education on offer totals a record 215 Tel – 01347 833800 Scott Fenwick, Steve Chappell and their hours this year, very nearly double what ext 513 excellent Gleneagles team. was on offer only eight years ago. [email protected] The team was supported by a 40-strong BTME has always had a learning and Editorial volunteer crew - many of whom are Gleneagles development focus but that has increased Communications Executive greenkeeping alumni - bringing the total squad markedly over the last few years. We expect Steve Castle for the week to nearly 100. demand to be high for the combination of Tel – 01347 833800 ext 510 Jamie Donaldson’s extraordinary wedge workshops, conferences and seminars so don’t steve.castle shot to the 15th green provided a fitting climax delay in booking your place. The one-day Turf @bigga.co.uk to a week in which Captain Paul McGinley Managers Conference on Monday 19 January Advertising was repeatedly praised for his planning and is set to be a particular highlight with a mix of Business attention to detail. The same could absolutely agronomy, research and management topics Development Manager be said for Scott, Steve and all their team and as well as a session on customer expectations Jill Rodham Tel – 01347 833800 I am particularly looking forward to hearing and experience, an aspect of the profession that ext 519 about the finer detail during the seminar is critical as our sport competes for attention in Fax – 01347 833802 [email protected] programme at BTME 2015 in January. the modern world. Our ambition is to provide an educational Printing ONE BRAND Warners Midlands Plc, The Maltings, Manor One member of the volunteer team has programme of interest to all BIGGA members Lane, Bourne, Lincolnshire PE10 9PH Tel – 01778 391000 | Fax – 01778 394269 had a month to remember as only a few at every stage of their career and I firmly believe OF TURF EQUIPMENT days before arriving in Gleneagles, Kevin we have achieved that for 2015. In 2014 nearly ® Contents may not be reprinted or otherwise Pebble Beach uses only Jacobsen turf equipment on every inch of every hole. From ECLIPSE2 and reproduced without written permission. O’Neill from Muswell Hill clinched the 2,800 individuals took part in the programme ECLIPSE® 322 walking and riding greens mowers to LF550™ fairway mowers and AR522 and AR722T Return postage must accompany all 26th Toro Student Greenkeeper of the and this year we hope to see that number grow materials submitted if return is requested. No contour rotaries, the fi ve courses of Pebble Beach trust Jacobsen to maintain all its precious turf. responsibility can be assumed for unsolicited Year award. to over 3,000 for the first time. I look forward to materials. The right is reserved to edit I would like to publicly congratulate Kevin seeing you in Harrogate. So why does one of the world’s most famous golf destinations choose Jacobsen turf equipment submissions before publication. Although every care will be taken, no and the five other finalists, the standard was year after year? It’s quite simple: Jacobsen is the only turf equipment that can provide the responsibility is accepted for loss of incredibly high throughout. world-class conditions Pebble Beach is known for. manuscripts, photographs or artwork. Opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the The night before the final, Toro held a special Association, and no responsibility is accepted For more information about Jacobsen or to fi nd a Jacobsen dealer near you, visit for such content, advertising or product celebration at Aldwark Manor to recognise www.ransomesjacobsen.com. information that may appear. Circulation is by 25 years of the award and it was a thrill to subscription. Subscription rate: UK £50 per year, Europe and Eire £65, Rest of the World see 22 previous winners in attendance. Toro £95. The magazine is also distributed to BIGGA . members, golf clubs, local authorities, the turf have been steadfast in their support of BIGGA industry, libraries and central government. and greenkeeper education for which we are extremely grateful. All of the winners have progressed through FOR A LEGENDARY PERFORMANCE the industry over the years and I am confident ON YOUR COURSE, CALL 01473 270000 this year’s finalists will do likewise. Kevin is now looking forward to the intense study course at UMASS in America whilst the www.ransomesjacobsen.com ISSN: 0961– 6977 two runners up Tom Freeman and Wesley Enjoy the read. © 2013 British and International Golf Jim Croxton, BIGGA CEO GI/PB2/10/2014 Greenkeepers Association Limited Lenihan will receive, courtesy of Toro, an all

@BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 GI 3

Pebble Beach 2 A4.indd 1 02/09/2014 16:01 CONTENTS A look at what’s inside the magazine this month

GI 25 YEARS October 2014 25 Years of Toro Student Greenkeeper of FEATURES the Year Before the 2014 final, a special attendees explaining how the proud to be associated with such a event was held at Aldwark competition began and how it worthwhile scheme that recognises Manor Hotel, adjacent to has evolved before Euan Grant, young and rising talent in the BIGGA House, to mark a 1994 winner and now Course greenkeeping industry. We thought quarter of a century of the Manager at Turnberry, outlined it fitting to mark the awards’ competition. how much his win has helped his 25th anniversary with a special 26 O’Neill nails it This unique evening attracted career and that of many others celebration – bringing together almost every winner in the in the industry. The speeches winners, judges and others, past competition’s history along with were concluded by BIGGA CEO and present – and I’m delighted the key figures through the decades. Jim Croxton, who thanked Toro occasion was such an outstanding All the winners who attended were for their hugely generous quarter success.” Toro Student Greenkeeper of the presented with a special watch as a century of sponsorship, and Barry Thanks to all the winners who memento. Beckett, Toro’s Senior Marketing travelled from far and wide to Lely’s UK Managing Director Manager. attend and everyone else who Year 2014 – Kevin O’Neill Graham Dale addressed the Barry added: “Toro and Lely are contributed to a special occasion.

30 Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year - 25 Years Winners from down the years

32 A flexible friend? How changes to flexible working regulations affect greenkeepers

FROM LEFT: Euan Grant (1994 winner), James Braithwaite (1995), Murray Long (2002), Fintan Brennan (1996), Bridie Redican (now Collins, 1993), Brian Story (1991), Keith Scruton (2003), Matt Perks (2011), Thomas Flavelle (2012), Luke Turner (2013), Avon Bridges (2007), Alex Shore (2004), Rhys Norville (2009), Mike Emptage (2006), Mathew Wormald (2008), Andrew Stanger (2010), David Norton (1990), Barry Neville (1992), Steven Nixon (1997), Andrew Pledger (2001), Jonathan Cleland (2000). 30 26 34 BIGGA Photo OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 30 GI GI 31 Competition 2014 The results are in.

36 A day in the life REGULARS 15 weeks to BTME Sandra Raper at Rockliffe Hall GREENKEEPER 38 The grass plant: the 3 Welcome from BIGGA INTERNATIONAL Published by the British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association sum of its parts 6 Chairman’s Word GI OCTOBER 2014

Dr Paul Miller’s latest article 8 Newsdesk Inside... 16 Membership News FLEXIBLE 40 The wonderful WORKING 18 L&D News How changes in the world of the Liverwort law could affect you Sherriff Amenity look at liverworts 22 Industry Update PHOTO COMP 54 Around the Green RESULTS 44 Feeding weeds in BIGGA Members’ 60 Greenkeepers top 12 inside the fall 32 34 44 Training Committee Dr Terry Mabbett writes 62 Buyers Guide 48 Pedestrian aeration 64 Recruitment O’Neill How a Midlands greenkeeper has 66 @BIGGALtd used a Toro system nails it ORGANISED BY: SUPPORTED BY: 50 A winter warmer Muswell Hill’s Kevin

’ O’Neill rounds off 25 Head Mechanic at The Belfry, years of Toro winners shares his top tips CONTINUE 52 Flexibility - the key TO LEARN ALSO INSIDE... MACHINERY TIPS : PROBLEM WEEDS : BASIS How various clubs will be adjusting EDUCATION PROGRAMME GI_OCT_14_v3.indd 1 01/10/2014 14:50 their mowing schedule Sunday 18 to Wednesday 21 January 2015 at the Harrogate International Centre, N.Yorks This month - find your

59 Seal the deal at BTME 2015 Continue to Learn Paul Worster advises how to put booklet in the bag... your case forward properly 36 40 50 BIGGA TURF MANAGEMENT EXHIBITION 4 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd 24/09/2014 12:37 @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 GI 5 BTME15_CONTINUE TO LEARN_V4.indd 1 CONTENTS A look at what’s inside the magazine this month

GI 25 YEARS October 2014 25 Years of Toro Student Greenkeeper of FEATURES the Year Before the 2014 final, a special attendees explaining how the proud to be associated with such a event was held at Aldwark competition began and how it worthwhile scheme that recognises Manor Hotel, adjacent to has evolved before Euan Grant, young and rising talent in the BIGGA House, to mark a 1994 winner and now Course greenkeeping industry. We thought quarter of a century of the Manager at Turnberry, outlined it fitting to mark the awards’ competition. how much his win has helped his 25th anniversary with a special 26 O’Neill nails it This unique evening attracted career and that of many others celebration – bringing together almost every winner in the in the industry. The speeches winners, judges and others, past competition’s history along with were concluded by BIGGA CEO and present – and I’m delighted the key figures through the decades. Jim Croxton, who thanked Toro occasion was such an outstanding All the winners who attended were for their hugely generous quarter success.” Toro Student Greenkeeper of the presented with a special watch as a century of sponsorship, and Barry Thanks to all the winners who memento. Beckett, Toro’s Senior Marketing travelled from far and wide to Lely’s UK Managing Director Manager. attend and everyone else who Year 2014 – Kevin O’Neill Graham Dale addressed the Barry added: “Toro and Lely are contributed to a special occasion.

30 Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year - 25 Years Winners from down the years

32 A flexible friend? How changes to flexible working regulations affect greenkeepers

FROM LEFT: Euan Grant (1994 winner), James Braithwaite (1995), Murray Long (2002), Fintan Brennan (1996), Bridie Redican (now Collins, 1993), Brian Story (1991), Keith Scruton (2003), Matt Perks (2011), Thomas Flavelle (2012), Luke Turner (2013), Avon Bridges (2007), Alex Shore (2004), Rhys Norville (2009), Mike Emptage (2006), Mathew Wormald (2008), Andrew Stanger (2010), David Norton (1990), Barry Neville (1992), Steven Nixon (1997), Andrew Pledger (2001), Jonathan Cleland (2000). 30 26 34 BIGGA Photo OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 30 GI GI 31 Competition 2014 The results are in.

36 A day in the life REGULARS 15 weeks to BTME Sandra Raper at Rockliffe Hall GREENKEEPER 38 The grass plant: the 3 Welcome from BIGGA INTERNATIONAL Published by the British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association sum of its parts 6 Chairman’s Word GI OCTOBER 2014

Dr Paul Miller’s latest article 8 Newsdesk Inside... 16 Membership News FLEXIBLE 40 The wonderful WORKING 18 L&D News How changes in the world of the Liverwort law could affect you Sherriff Amenity look at liverworts 22 Industry Update PHOTO COMP 54 Around the Green RESULTS 44 Feeding weeds in BIGGA Members’ 60 Greenkeepers top 12 inside the fall 32 34 44 Training Committee Dr Terry Mabbett writes 62 Buyers Guide 48 Pedestrian aeration 64 Recruitment O’Neill How a Midlands greenkeeper has 66 @BIGGALtd used a Toro system nails it ORGANISED BY: SUPPORTED BY: 50 A winter warmer Muswell Hill’s Kevin

’ O’Neill rounds off 25 Head Mechanic at The Belfry, years of Toro winners shares his top tips CONTINUE 52 Flexibility - the key TO LEARN ALSO INSIDE... MACHINERY TIPS : PROBLEM WEEDS : BASIS How various clubs will be adjusting EDUCATION PROGRAMME GI_OCT_14_v3.indd 1 01/10/2014 14:50 their mowing schedule Sunday 18 to Wednesday 21 January 2015 at the Harrogate International Centre, N.Yorks This month - find your

59 Seal the deal at BTME 2015 Continue to Learn Paul Worster advises how to put booklet in the bag... your case forward properly 36 40 50 BIGGA TURF MANAGEMENT EXHIBITION 4 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd 24/09/2014 12:37 @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 GI 5 BTME15_CONTINUE TO LEARN_V4.indd 1 Chairman’s Word Funding National Chairman, Chris Sealey, gives his thoughts for the month your future The funding and assistance provided by BIGGA Partners and BIGGA Seal of approval Education Supporters underpins the Association’s considerable investment in Continuing Professional Development and all our The focus of this month’s column is of educational activity. They are investing in the future of BIGGA members, course the Toro Student Greenkeeper of we are hugely grateful and urge you to show them your support the Year competition, and therefore I’d like to discuss the value of education. I was once again delighted to be asked to judge this year’s competition, and thoroughly enjoyed meeting six enthusiastic and ambitious greenkeepers. Congratulations to Kevin O’Neill, and well done to all the finalists. I particularly liked the new format which meant the final kicked off with a really interesting debate on key issues facing greenkeeping, it was fascinating to hear a range of opinions and interesting ideas from all six. It was a pleasure meeting all of them. As always with this event my overriding feeling is pride at just how well equipped the young up and coming greenkeepers are and what good hands our industry is in. But that is countered by the knowledge that we all continually have to develop our own knowledge and skills to ensure we remain at the forefront of our industry. If we don’t then the younger generation will definitely be snapping at our heels! On that topic you’ll see from the enclosed booklet outlining the schedule for Continue to Learn at BTME 2015 that we have “I particularly liked the new format which another fantastic line-up of seminars, presentations and conferences in January. meant the final kicked off with an interesting I look forward to seeing many of you there. debate on key issues facing greenkeeping” The importance of greenkeeping education was underlined by a special event held at Aldwark Manor to mark 25 Over the last year the BIGGA Board I’ve just got time to quickly congratulate years of Toro Student Greenkeeper of the of Management have made significant Scott Fenwick, Steve Chappell, all the Year. It was terrific to see so many previous progress discussing the Association’s home team and all the volunteers on the winners, a real trip down memory lane constitution and governance. While this sharp, stunning presentation of the course for me, and so many of the victors have may not appear the most fascinating at Gleneagles. The Ryder Cup was a superb gone on to superb jobs at some of the subject, it’s crucial to ensuring the event, crowned by a fantastic European country’s most prestigious courses or the Association is equipped to develop and victory, and all the greenkeepers involved wider industry. The fact the vast majority grow in the future. It’s now being fine- should be extremely proud. of winners, judges and sponsors remain tuned and a draft will very soon be released At Chippenham we’re heading into in the industry 25 years on is a great to the Regional Boards and Sections for autumn in a good position. We’ve enjoyed testament to greenkeeping. consultation. a decent summer really, it’s been very dry Just reaching the final is a superb At our most recent meeting Rob Welford, recently which has meant we’ve used the achievement and really helps you in your Course Manager at Cleethorpes Golf irrigation system more regularly than we career. The opportunity to attend the study Club, joined the Board of Management would expect this time of year. course at the University of Massachusetts, representing the Midland Region. I know he Chris and also visit the Golf Industry Show, will have plenty of new ideas to bring to the is priceless and will do wonders for a table. I’d really like to thank Steve Mason for his time on the board, we all thoroughly Contact details greenkeeper’s future, and I’m sure Kevin Individual Contributors: Steven Tierney MG, Chris Lomas MG, Andrew Campbell MG CGCS, W J Rogers, Sam enjoyed working with him and his passion Langrick, Espen Bergmann, Nick Gray, Steve Dixon, Richard McGlynn, Douglas Duguid, Jaey Goodchild, Michael will make the very most of this fantastic Email Chris at [email protected] Beaton, David Barker, Greg Evans, Frank Newberry opportunity. for the profession was outstanding. or contact him direct on 07817 294632

6 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd Chairman’s Word Funding National Chairman, Chris Sealey, gives his thoughts for the month your future The funding and assistance provided by BIGGA Partners and BIGGA Seal of approval Education Supporters underpins the Association’s considerable investment in Continuing Professional Development and all our The focus of this month’s column is of educational activity. They are investing in the future of BIGGA members, course the Toro Student Greenkeeper of we are hugely grateful and urge you to show them your support the Year competition, and therefore I’d like to discuss the value of education. I was once again delighted to be asked to judge this year’s competition, and thoroughly enjoyed meeting six enthusiastic and ambitious greenkeepers. Congratulations to Kevin O’Neill, and well done to all the finalists. I particularly liked the new format which meant the final kicked off with a really interesting debate on key issues facing greenkeeping, it was fascinating to hear a range of opinions and interesting ideas from all six. It was a pleasure meeting all of them. As always with this event my overriding feeling is pride at just how well equipped the young up and coming greenkeepers are and what good hands our industry is in. But that is countered by the knowledge that we all continually have to develop our own knowledge and skills to ensure we remain at the forefront of our industry. If we don’t then the younger generation will definitely be snapping at our heels! On that topic you’ll see from the enclosed booklet outlining the schedule for Continue to Learn at BTME 2015 that we have “I particularly liked the new format which another fantastic line-up of seminars, presentations and conferences in January. meant the final kicked off with an interesting I look forward to seeing many of you there. debate on key issues facing greenkeeping” The importance of greenkeeping education was underlined by a special event held at Aldwark Manor to mark 25 Over the last year the BIGGA Board I’ve just got time to quickly congratulate years of Toro Student Greenkeeper of the of Management have made significant Scott Fenwick, Steve Chappell, all the Year. It was terrific to see so many previous progress discussing the Association’s home team and all the volunteers on the winners, a real trip down memory lane constitution and governance. While this sharp, stunning presentation of the course for me, and so many of the victors have may not appear the most fascinating at Gleneagles. The Ryder Cup was a superb gone on to superb jobs at some of the subject, it’s crucial to ensuring the event, crowned by a fantastic European country’s most prestigious courses or the Association is equipped to develop and victory, and all the greenkeepers involved wider industry. The fact the vast majority grow in the future. It’s now being fine- should be extremely proud. of winners, judges and sponsors remain tuned and a draft will very soon be released At Chippenham we’re heading into in the industry 25 years on is a great to the Regional Boards and Sections for autumn in a good position. We’ve enjoyed testament to greenkeeping. consultation. a decent summer really, it’s been very dry Just reaching the final is a superb At our most recent meeting Rob Welford, recently which has meant we’ve used the achievement and really helps you in your Course Manager at Cleethorpes Golf irrigation system more regularly than we career. The opportunity to attend the study Club, joined the Board of Management would expect this time of year. course at the University of Massachusetts, representing the Midland Region. I know he Chris and also visit the Golf Industry Show, will have plenty of new ideas to bring to the is priceless and will do wonders for a table. I’d really like to thank Steve Mason for his time on the board, we all thoroughly Contact details greenkeeper’s future, and I’m sure Kevin Individual Contributors: Steven Tierney MG, Chris Lomas MG, Andrew Campbell MG CGCS, W J Rogers, Sam enjoyed working with him and his passion Langrick, Espen Bergmann, Nick Gray, Steve Dixon, Richard McGlynn, Douglas Duguid, Jaey Goodchild, Michael will make the very most of this fantastic Email Chris at [email protected] Beaton, David Barker, Greg Evans, Frank Newberry opportunity. for the profession was outstanding. or contact him direct on 07817 294632

6 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd GI NEWSDThe latest news from around theESK globe CONFERENCE TIME NEW BOARD MEMBER Rob Welford, Course Manager at Cleethorpes Golf Club, is the new BIGGA Board of Management Member for the Midland Region. Rob replaces Steve Mason, Course Manager at Stocks Golf Club, who has stepped down from the Board due to work commitments. Rob said: “I’m excited to be given this opportunity to represent the Midland Region at what I feel is very positive time for the Association. I hope I can help to drive the Association forward with particular emphasis on encouraging greater participation from our younger members and ensuring the Association meets their needs.”

RIGBY TAYLOR ON BIGGA are once again nozzle presentation in the SOUTH EAST – - ‘Wimbledon fortnight: before, holding five regional outdoor wind tunnel WEDNESDAY 12 during and after’ conferences featuring Amega Sciences Microscope NOVEMBER, COLNE Henry Bechelet, Everris. BOARD WITH BIGGA an excellent line-up of Session - Testing Processes and VALLEY GOLF CLUB BIGGA are delighted to announce that Rigby Taylor are the latest presenters discussing identifying pests and diseases For more details contact Clive Registration is from 8am. company to become a BIGGA Partner. a wide range of matters Stephen Nixon - Bernhard Osgood (07841 948410), email Prices are the same as last Rigby Taylor, one of the UK’s leading supplier of products relevant to the turf & Co, Glen Sawyer - Russell [email protected] year; £26 members, £34 management industry, with Groundcare group non-members. We have also for the improvement, maintenance and construction of sports, CPD Credits available for A presentation exploring SOUTH WEST & SOUTH organised for the members to NEW ROLE FOR RACHAEL amenity and landscape areas, are a long standing and enthusiastic attendance. The dates for cutting unit technologies and WALES – WEDNESDAY 19 be able to have a look around supporter of the Association and BTME. Chris Clark, Rigby Taylor’s Executive Chairman, (above left your diaries are: how a regular sharpening NOVEMBER AT SOMERSET the ground during their lunch Congratulations to Rachael Duffy who has accepted the with BIGGA CEO Jim Croxton) said: “We are excited to be joining programme can improve COUNTY CRICKET CLUB break with the Deputy Head newly created role of Events & Membership Executive the BIGGA Partnership scheme and provide funding for the NORTHERN – THURSDAY agronomic, mechanical and This is a new venue for Groundsman and we are at BIGGA House. development and education of greenkeeping. As a founder member 6 NOVEMBER, PHOENIX financial benefits. the Conference! Regional hoping that Lely may bring Rachael has therefore moved from the Learning & of the original Gold Key scheme, the company has always placed SPORTS & SOCIAL CLUB, Administrator Tracey Harvey some machinery for display as Development department to Membership where she support for industry Association initiatives very high on its list of ROTHERHAM £10 for members, £20 for said: “The venue is very well. will be reporting to BIGGA General Manager Tracey priorities.” Non Members and all Sheffield impressive and seems to be For more details contact Maddison. Richard Fry, Marketing Director for Rigby Taylor, commented: Presentations: Section members can go free of attracting a lot of attention from Tracey (07841 948110), email Commenting on the move BIGGA CEO Jim Croxton “As a company, we do not view the industry from behind a desk. Alan Ferguson, Royal St charge as Seffield Section are the members!” Speakers for this [email protected] said: “As we continue to deliver increased opportunities Our field-based team of technical representatives are in constant Georges – ‘The Story So Far’ sponsoring the event. year are: for our members to take part in a variety of beneficial contact with greenkeepers, and this provides us with an insight Lee Strutt - CV and Career James Braithwaite, Course MIDLAND – WEDNESDAY events whilst also getting more involved as a business into daily greenkeeping practices and their problems. Clinic appointments throughout Main Sponsors are Rigby Manager, Long Ashton GC – 25 FEBRUARY 2015 AT in the wider industry it has become necessary to “It is this awareness that enables us to not only introduce the day Taylor along with Bernhard & ‘Future proofing your course’ STONEBRIDGE GOLF strengthen our resource in events coordination. products that are relevant to today’s traditional agronomic Presentation on the theme of Co, Russell Groundcare and Craig Campbell, Deputy CLUB, COVENTRY. “Therefore we have created this new role which will practices, but to develop new, innovative products designed to Pests and Diseases Mansfield Sands Ltd who are Head Groundsman, Millennium For more details contact primarily be concerned with coordinating our many provide solutions for the problems of tomorrow.” Peter Newton – Creeping Bent donating a spot prize draw Stadium – ‘Out with the old, in Roger Butler (07525 593359), member, board and promotional events but will also BIGGA’s Business Development Manager Jill Rodham added: Grass that everyone attending will be with the new’ email [email protected] have some responsibility for assisting Tracey and Elaine “We’re very happy to welcome Rigby Taylor on board as a BIGGA entered into. Cameron McMillan, Course with general administration in Membership. Partner. We’ve had an excellent relationship with them for many Workshops: Manager, Queenwood GC SCOTLAND – TUESDAY 3 “I’m delighted that Rachael has accepted the years and this Partnership reinforces that.” Peter Corbett, Rigby Taylor – For more details contact – ‘Development of a modern MARCH 2015, VENUE TBC opportunity, she has had quite a lot of responsibility for For more on Rigby Taylor please visit their website Sustainable use of Chemicals Sandra Raper (07866 366966), heathland golf course’ For more details contact events in her role as L&D Executive so this is a natural www.rigbytaylor.com, and follow them on Twitter@rigbytaylor Stephen Kateley, Billericay email [email protected] David Langheim MG, Course John Young (07776 242120), move.” Farm Services Limited - A spray Manager, Wimbledon Park GC email [email protected]

8 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 GI 9 GI NEWSDThe latest news from around theESK globe CONFERENCE TIME NEW BOARD MEMBER Rob Welford, Course Manager at Cleethorpes Golf Club, is the new BIGGA Board of Management Member for the Midland Region. Rob replaces Steve Mason, Course Manager at Stocks Golf Club, who has stepped down from the Board due to work commitments. Rob said: “I’m excited to be given this opportunity to represent the Midland Region at what I feel is very positive time for the Association. I hope I can help to drive the Association forward with particular emphasis on encouraging greater participation from our younger members and ensuring the Association meets their needs.”

RIGBY TAYLOR ON BIGGA are once again nozzle presentation in the SOUTH EAST – - ‘Wimbledon fortnight: before, holding five regional outdoor wind tunnel WEDNESDAY 12 during and after’ conferences featuring Amega Sciences Microscope NOVEMBER, COLNE Henry Bechelet, Everris. BOARD WITH BIGGA an excellent line-up of Session - Testing Processes and VALLEY GOLF CLUB BIGGA are delighted to announce that Rigby Taylor are the latest presenters discussing identifying pests and diseases For more details contact Clive Registration is from 8am. company to become a BIGGA Partner. a wide range of matters Stephen Nixon - Bernhard Osgood (07841 948410), email Prices are the same as last Rigby Taylor, one of the UK’s leading supplier of products relevant to the turf & Co, Glen Sawyer - Russell [email protected] year; £26 members, £34 management industry, with Groundcare group non-members. We have also for the improvement, maintenance and construction of sports, CPD Credits available for A presentation exploring SOUTH WEST & SOUTH organised for the members to NEW ROLE FOR RACHAEL amenity and landscape areas, are a long standing and enthusiastic attendance. The dates for cutting unit technologies and WALES – WEDNESDAY 19 be able to have a look around supporter of the Association and BTME. Chris Clark, Rigby Taylor’s Executive Chairman, (above left your diaries are: how a regular sharpening NOVEMBER AT SOMERSET the ground during their lunch Congratulations to Rachael Duffy who has accepted the with BIGGA CEO Jim Croxton) said: “We are excited to be joining programme can improve COUNTY CRICKET CLUB break with the Deputy Head newly created role of Events & Membership Executive the BIGGA Partnership scheme and provide funding for the NORTHERN – THURSDAY agronomic, mechanical and This is a new venue for Groundsman and we are at BIGGA House. development and education of greenkeeping. As a founder member 6 NOVEMBER, PHOENIX financial benefits. the Conference! Regional hoping that Lely may bring Rachael has therefore moved from the Learning & of the original Gold Key scheme, the company has always placed SPORTS & SOCIAL CLUB, Administrator Tracey Harvey some machinery for display as Development department to Membership where she support for industry Association initiatives very high on its list of ROTHERHAM £10 for members, £20 for said: “The venue is very well. will be reporting to BIGGA General Manager Tracey priorities.” Non Members and all Sheffield impressive and seems to be For more details contact Maddison. Richard Fry, Marketing Director for Rigby Taylor, commented: Presentations: Section members can go free of attracting a lot of attention from Tracey (07841 948110), email Commenting on the move BIGGA CEO Jim Croxton “As a company, we do not view the industry from behind a desk. Alan Ferguson, Royal St charge as Seffield Section are the members!” Speakers for this [email protected] said: “As we continue to deliver increased opportunities Our field-based team of technical representatives are in constant Georges – ‘The Story So Far’ sponsoring the event. year are: for our members to take part in a variety of beneficial contact with greenkeepers, and this provides us with an insight Lee Strutt - CV and Career James Braithwaite, Course MIDLAND – WEDNESDAY events whilst also getting more involved as a business into daily greenkeeping practices and their problems. Clinic appointments throughout Main Sponsors are Rigby Manager, Long Ashton GC – 25 FEBRUARY 2015 AT in the wider industry it has become necessary to “It is this awareness that enables us to not only introduce the day Taylor along with Bernhard & ‘Future proofing your course’ STONEBRIDGE GOLF strengthen our resource in events coordination. products that are relevant to today’s traditional agronomic Presentation on the theme of Co, Russell Groundcare and Craig Campbell, Deputy CLUB, COVENTRY. “Therefore we have created this new role which will practices, but to develop new, innovative products designed to Pests and Diseases Mansfield Sands Ltd who are Head Groundsman, Millennium For more details contact primarily be concerned with coordinating our many provide solutions for the problems of tomorrow.” Peter Newton – Creeping Bent donating a spot prize draw Stadium – ‘Out with the old, in Roger Butler (07525 593359), member, board and promotional events but will also BIGGA’s Business Development Manager Jill Rodham added: Grass that everyone attending will be with the new’ email [email protected] have some responsibility for assisting Tracey and Elaine “We’re very happy to welcome Rigby Taylor on board as a BIGGA entered into. Cameron McMillan, Course with general administration in Membership. Partner. We’ve had an excellent relationship with them for many Workshops: Manager, Queenwood GC SCOTLAND – TUESDAY 3 “I’m delighted that Rachael has accepted the years and this Partnership reinforces that.” Peter Corbett, Rigby Taylor – For more details contact – ‘Development of a modern MARCH 2015, VENUE TBC opportunity, she has had quite a lot of responsibility for For more on Rigby Taylor please visit their website Sustainable use of Chemicals Sandra Raper (07866 366966), heathland golf course’ For more details contact events in her role as L&D Executive so this is a natural www.rigbytaylor.com, and follow them on Twitter@rigbytaylor Stephen Kateley, Billericay email [email protected] David Langheim MG, Course John Young (07776 242120), move.” Farm Services Limited - A spray Manager, Wimbledon Park GC email [email protected]

8 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 GI 9 GI NEWSDESK GI NEWSDESK NORRIE WHYTOCK TRIUMPH FOR CENTRAL SECTION

MARK GANTON GOLF CLUB HILLS Pictured here are the Support 144 players competed over three the event. American Brady Everyone at BIGGA JOHN Team at Ganton Golf Club who days, and despite some worrying Exber, a 58-year-old from Las was saddened to ensured the R&A Senior Amateur weather forecasts the competition Vegas, closed with a 78 for a hear of the death MUIR Championship was a success. finished on schedule on the four-shot victory over Yorkshire’s of Mark Hills, The team at the North Yorkshire Friday with only a lightning Stephen East who finished on 228 greenkeeper at Last month course, led by Head Greenkeeper monitor delay for a few hours on after a 79. Kingsbarns Golf saw The West Philip Baldock, are shown the Wednesday. Three players shared third – Links. Lancashire Golf surrounded by the fleet of Toro Congratulations were given Americans Michael Mercier and 31-year-old Club announce the Lely UK machines courtesy of local to the team from the R&A for John McClure and England’s Tony Mark lost his battle passing of Course dealership Russell Group. preparing a superb course for McLure. against cancer and Manager John passed away in his Muir. wife Nic’s arms on John, who was 26 August. well known to many Mark came BIGGA members, across from Jacks had spent almost Point Golf Club 30 years with the Queenstown, club having joined New Zealand in in 1985. He had April 2011 to join the greenkeeping Shaun Anderson from Piperdam Golf & Leisure with Andy O’Hara, Dave Orchard from Bayer and Gordon Moir. previously gained greenkeeping team at Kingsbarns The Scottish Region’s annual Piperdam, proved to be the winning course and use of the experience in the Golf Links. As inter-section competition - the combination with a total of 71 excellent clubhouse facilities. Middle East before well as being a Norrie Whytock - was held at stableford points. In joint second He made particular mention of moving on to Poult hugely talented Auchterarder Golf Club on place with 62 stableford points were the course condition thanking Wood Golf Club in greenkeeper, Mark Tuesday 26 August with Bayer the East Section team of Phil and Archie Dunn and his team and Kent. was also a keen CropScience sponsoring this Stuart Ferguson (Dundas Park) and complimenting their hard work He had a major golfer and managed prestigious event in our calendar. the North Section pairing of Robert and dedication. impact on the to clock up an This year’s competition had a Patterson (Royal Aberdeen) and Our partnership with the development of impressive 160 change in format with two-man Ross Macrae (Turiff). competition sponsors, Bayer the course at West rounds of golf on teams representing each of the five Conditions on the day were CropScience is essential to the Lancashire and The Old Course. sections with a 6th team of Andy excellent with lots of sunshine success of the Norrie Whytock worked closely with Mark and Nic O’Hara (Chairman) and Stuart and only a slight breeze. However competition. Dave Orchard, renowned architect loved travelling Greenwood (Board of Management special praise was reserved for National Accounts Manager was Donald Steel during and over their time SUCCESS FOR CLEVELAND together visited 40 Representative) taking on the the course itself with all teams on hand to present the prizes and a large renovation honour of representing the regional complimenting the fantastic to thank all for attending. in the eighties. The annual Whitemoss BIGGA approaches second only to The As with all sporting occasions different countries. board. playing conditions. Our sincere Winning team captain, Gordon John had Northern Region Inter Section Open’. With that in mind and there can be only one winner and During his stay There were some excellent congratulations are reserved for Moir, concluded the proceedings suffered ill health Competition took place at having received the warmest of this was Cleveland Section’s Year in Scotland Mark individual scores returned on the Archie Dunn and his team yet by accepting the Norrie Whytock over the past two Northumberland Golf Club on welcomes from the clubhouse staff with Phil Hargrave, Martin Woods made many friends day with Gordon Moir, Director again. Trophy and passed on his and years and died in Thursday 4 September courtesy of the three man teams began the and Davy Cuthbertson achieving and will be sorely of Greenkeeping at St Andrews Andy O’Hara, Scottish Shaun’s thanks to all concerned hospital. He leaves Andrew Law and all The Team at 3/4 Stableford competition. a cumulative score of 83. Runners missed by all who Links Trust posting an excellent Chairman, thanked all competitors with running the event, to Bayer, behind his wife Whitemoss Eco Ltd. Some blamed the halfway house up on count back were Sheffield knew him. Our 38 points closely followed by Phil for taking part and their continued to Auchterarder Golf Club and Marie. Everyone at Paul O’Connor, Jordan hospitality, others were a little more Section with 83 points and third thoughts go out Butler from Murrayfield Golf Club support of the association. He especially Archie Dunn and his BIGGA passes on Gibson and the greenkeeping realistic in their performances were Northern Section. to Nic, his parents returning a score of 36 points. thanked Bayer CropScience for team. their condolences Team at Northumberland but all enjoyed a superb day Thanks go to Northumberland John and Betsy, his Indeed Gordon’s high score their continued sponsorship and to John’s family provided a superb course that and extended their thanks and Golf Club, Whitemoss Eco Ltd brother Hamish and combined with that of his playing Auchterarder Golf Club for hosting John Young and friends. Davy Cuthbertson quoted as appreciation to Andrew Law and and to everyone for travelling and all his family and partner, Shaun Anderson from the event, providing courtesy of the Regional Administrator (Scotland) having ‘greens, surrounds and Whitemoss Eco Ltd. taking part. friends.

10 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 GI 11 GI NEWSDESK GI NEWSDESK NORRIE WHYTOCK TRIUMPH FOR CENTRAL SECTION

MARK GANTON GOLF CLUB HILLS Pictured here are the Support 144 players competed over three the event. American Brady Everyone at BIGGA JOHN Team at Ganton Golf Club who days, and despite some worrying Exber, a 58-year-old from Las was saddened to ensured the R&A Senior Amateur weather forecasts the competition Vegas, closed with a 78 for a hear of the death MUIR Championship was a success. finished on schedule on the four-shot victory over Yorkshire’s of Mark Hills, The team at the North Yorkshire Friday with only a lightning Stephen East who finished on 228 greenkeeper at Last month course, led by Head Greenkeeper monitor delay for a few hours on after a 79. Kingsbarns Golf saw The West Philip Baldock, are shown the Wednesday. Three players shared third – Links. Lancashire Golf surrounded by the fleet of Toro Congratulations were given Americans Michael Mercier and 31-year-old Club announce the Lely UK machines courtesy of local to the team from the R&A for John McClure and England’s Tony Mark lost his battle passing of Course dealership Russell Group. preparing a superb course for McLure. against cancer and Manager John passed away in his Muir. wife Nic’s arms on John, who was 26 August. well known to many Mark came BIGGA members, across from Jacks had spent almost Point Golf Club 30 years with the Queenstown, club having joined New Zealand in in 1985. He had April 2011 to join the greenkeeping Shaun Anderson from Piperdam Golf & Leisure with Andy O’Hara, Dave Orchard from Bayer and Gordon Moir. previously gained greenkeeping team at Kingsbarns The Scottish Region’s annual Piperdam, proved to be the winning course and use of the experience in the Golf Links. As inter-section competition - the combination with a total of 71 excellent clubhouse facilities. Middle East before well as being a Norrie Whytock - was held at stableford points. In joint second He made particular mention of moving on to Poult hugely talented Auchterarder Golf Club on place with 62 stableford points were the course condition thanking Wood Golf Club in greenkeeper, Mark Tuesday 26 August with Bayer the East Section team of Phil and Archie Dunn and his team and Kent. was also a keen CropScience sponsoring this Stuart Ferguson (Dundas Park) and complimenting their hard work He had a major golfer and managed prestigious event in our calendar. the North Section pairing of Robert and dedication. impact on the to clock up an This year’s competition had a Patterson (Royal Aberdeen) and Our partnership with the development of impressive 160 change in format with two-man Ross Macrae (Turiff). competition sponsors, Bayer the course at West rounds of golf on teams representing each of the five Conditions on the day were CropScience is essential to the Lancashire and The Old Course. sections with a 6th team of Andy excellent with lots of sunshine success of the Norrie Whytock worked closely with Mark and Nic O’Hara (Chairman) and Stuart and only a slight breeze. However competition. Dave Orchard, renowned architect loved travelling Greenwood (Board of Management special praise was reserved for National Accounts Manager was Donald Steel during and over their time SUCCESS FOR CLEVELAND together visited 40 Representative) taking on the the course itself with all teams on hand to present the prizes and a large renovation honour of representing the regional complimenting the fantastic to thank all for attending. in the eighties. The annual Whitemoss BIGGA approaches second only to The As with all sporting occasions different countries. board. playing conditions. Our sincere Winning team captain, Gordon John had Northern Region Inter Section Open’. With that in mind and there can be only one winner and During his stay There were some excellent congratulations are reserved for Moir, concluded the proceedings suffered ill health Competition took place at having received the warmest of this was Cleveland Section’s Year in Scotland Mark individual scores returned on the Archie Dunn and his team yet by accepting the Norrie Whytock over the past two Northumberland Golf Club on welcomes from the clubhouse staff with Phil Hargrave, Martin Woods made many friends day with Gordon Moir, Director again. Trophy and passed on his and years and died in Thursday 4 September courtesy of the three man teams began the and Davy Cuthbertson achieving and will be sorely of Greenkeeping at St Andrews Andy O’Hara, Scottish Shaun’s thanks to all concerned hospital. He leaves Andrew Law and all The Team at 3/4 Stableford competition. a cumulative score of 83. Runners missed by all who Links Trust posting an excellent Chairman, thanked all competitors with running the event, to Bayer, behind his wife Whitemoss Eco Ltd. Some blamed the halfway house up on count back were Sheffield knew him. Our 38 points closely followed by Phil for taking part and their continued to Auchterarder Golf Club and Marie. Everyone at Paul O’Connor, Jordan hospitality, others were a little more Section with 83 points and third thoughts go out Butler from Murrayfield Golf Club support of the association. He especially Archie Dunn and his BIGGA passes on Gibson and the greenkeeping realistic in their performances were Northern Section. to Nic, his parents returning a score of 36 points. thanked Bayer CropScience for team. their condolences Team at Northumberland but all enjoyed a superb day Thanks go to Northumberland John and Betsy, his Indeed Gordon’s high score their continued sponsorship and to John’s family provided a superb course that and extended their thanks and Golf Club, Whitemoss Eco Ltd brother Hamish and combined with that of his playing Auchterarder Golf Club for hosting John Young and friends. Davy Cuthbertson quoted as appreciation to Andrew Law and and to everyone for travelling and all his family and partner, Shaun Anderson from the event, providing courtesy of the Regional Administrator (Scotland) having ‘greens, surrounds and Whitemoss Eco Ltd. taking part. friends.

10 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 GI 11 GI NEWSDESK GI NEWSDESK

ROSS’S RUGBY SUCCESS BIGGA member Ross Ovens has high quality product for members scooped an impressive haul of and visitors alike. trophies as he continues to excel “In my time I have seen the GREENKEEPERS DEFEAT for his local rugby team. course develop from its origins to EVERRIS GOLF Ross, who is Deputy Course one of the finest and challenging Manager at The Roxburghe Hotel courses around. The course held CRICKETERS MANAGEMENT TROPHY WHITELAW BOWL WIN & Golf Course, has won various successfully the Scottish Seniors Penrith Golf Club was the venue for the Annual BIGGA The qualifying stages for the Golf Management Trophy trophies playing for Melrose Rugby Open for a period between 2008 Sam Evans, Deputy Head find a wicket until Chris Sharp got Northern Region Championship competing for the sponsored by Everris are now complete ahead of the final Club and credits a similar team and 2012 and Q School over the Greenkeeper at Oakland Park the first. Wickets then tumbled Whitelaw Bowl kindly sponsored by Rigby Taylor Limited. at Frilford Heath Golf Club on 23 October. ethic to that at the Roxburghe for last two years. Golf Club, recently organised a regularly and CNDCC were Neil Robinson and his team prepared a superb course. The South West qualifier at Chipping Sodbury Golf the team’s success. “I think the key to our rugby cricket match for greenkeepers eventually bowled out 94 runs Results: 13-24 Handicap Division Runner Up was Club saw the home team victorious with South Cerney Over the last few seasons success this year was the strength against Chipping Norton and short of the target. The highlight (eventually) Brian Turner with 34 points and Winner Golf Club second place and also reaching the final. Melrose have won three Scottish and depth of our squad and the District Cricket Club – and the of the bowling figures was Simon Trevor Davies with 39 points. The Runner Up for the 1-12 The last qualifier was played at Parkstone Golf Club League titles, two Border League wide expansive game of rugby we greenkeepers won handsomely! Dadge with 2-4 and Shaun Kench Handicap Division was Steve Campbell with 37 points in Poole. BIGGA’s South West & South Wales Regional crowns, two Border Cups, a like to play. This brand of rugby The greenkeepers batted first, with 2-9. A full match report can and the Winner for the division and the Whitelaw Bowl Administrator Tracey Harvey said: Scottish Cup, four ‘Kings of the is also popular with our club’s and a great start saw S Down be found at www.cndcc.co.uk. was Neil Robinson with 40 points (above left). “The course was in tip top condition and was Sevens’ titles and several other supporters and lets them see some and E Ruff score impressive half Thank you to all who played Phil Dewhurst of Rigby Taylor presented the prizes thoroughly enjoyed by all.” tournaments. great tries being scored throughout centuries. and to Chipping Norton & District and thanked Neil and his team for preparing the course, At Parkstone greenkeeper and BIGGA member Ross said: “Playing rugby in this the season, it does however mean The score continued to creep up Cricket Club for hosting it. Penrith Golf Club for hosting the event and to everyone Jackson Ainley from Brokenhurst Manor Golf Club had team environment is not dissimilar that our forward pack remains and the greenkeepers declared on Sam hopes to arrange a few for attending and supporting this traditional annual a hole in one! Parkstone club captain Dick Bell presented to our approach at the Roxburghe. mobile and is highly skilled in all 221-7. In the following innings, all more games next season in the competition. proud Jackson with a certificate to mark his ace (above). Course Manager Grant Frogley, aspects of open play rugby. We also the greenkeepers bowled, except BB&O area, so if interested please The date for this event next year is already booked so Everris have placed on record their thanks to all myself and the team ensure a have an excellent coaching team Tucklett who kept wicket. contact him on snave_mas@ make a note in your diaries - Thursday 15 September members who supported each of the qualifiers – keep an professional approach to our work and backup support team at the The greenkeepers struggled to hotmail.com. 2015 with tees from 1pm at Penrith Golf Club. eye out for coverage of the final soon. and that of the team to produce a club.” MANSFIELD SAND ANNOUNCED AS SOUTH WEST SECTION VISIT WENTWORTH Kenny Mackay recently took time NEW BIGGA EDUCATION SUPPORTER out of his hugely busy schedule to show members of the South West Section around the West Course at Wentworth. Kenny showed real passion and a hugely in depth knowledge of BIGGA are delighted to announce Mansfield Sand Golf Sales what makes Wentworth tick as a Mansfield Sand as our latest Manager Sharon Morris said: business. He described the West Education Supporter. “We’re keen to raise our profile in Course renovation processes in The long-established the turf management industry great detail. Nottinghamshire based company and this new partnership is an Nothing was hidden or made its debut at BTME 2014 ideal way of helping us achieve dismissed and Kenny clearly knew and is a specialist supplier this. We’re looking forward to a exactly where the course was going of a comprehensive range of long and fruitful partnership with in the next 12 months and was materials for the construction and BIGGA.” happy to share this information. maintenance of top class sports The funding and assistance Everyone took away something and landscape surfaces. provided by BIGGA Partners and useful in terms of knowledge and They have been quarrying Education Supporters underpins inspiration from this first class sand in Mansfield for nearly 200 the Association’s considerable afternoon. Thanks to Kenny and years and supply over 400 UK golf investment in CPD and all our the Wentworth Club for their courses with rootzone materials, educational activity and we urge hospitality. topdressing and bunker sand. you to show them your support. Paul Worster

12 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 GI 13 GI NEWSDESK GI NEWSDESK

ROSS’S RUGBY SUCCESS BIGGA member Ross Ovens has high quality product for members scooped an impressive haul of and visitors alike. trophies as he continues to excel “In my time I have seen the GREENKEEPERS DEFEAT for his local rugby team. course develop from its origins to EVERRIS GOLF Ross, who is Deputy Course one of the finest and challenging Manager at The Roxburghe Hotel courses around. The course held CRICKETERS MANAGEMENT TROPHY WHITELAW BOWL WIN & Golf Course, has won various successfully the Scottish Seniors Penrith Golf Club was the venue for the Annual BIGGA The qualifying stages for the Golf Management Trophy trophies playing for Melrose Rugby Open for a period between 2008 Sam Evans, Deputy Head find a wicket until Chris Sharp got Northern Region Championship competing for the sponsored by Everris are now complete ahead of the final Club and credits a similar team and 2012 and Q School over the Greenkeeper at Oakland Park the first. Wickets then tumbled Whitelaw Bowl kindly sponsored by Rigby Taylor Limited. at Frilford Heath Golf Club on 23 October. ethic to that at the Roxburghe for last two years. Golf Club, recently organised a regularly and CNDCC were Neil Robinson and his team prepared a superb course. The South West qualifier at Chipping Sodbury Golf the team’s success. “I think the key to our rugby cricket match for greenkeepers eventually bowled out 94 runs Results: 13-24 Handicap Division Runner Up was Club saw the home team victorious with South Cerney Over the last few seasons success this year was the strength against Chipping Norton and short of the target. The highlight (eventually) Brian Turner with 34 points and Winner Golf Club second place and also reaching the final. Melrose have won three Scottish and depth of our squad and the District Cricket Club – and the of the bowling figures was Simon Trevor Davies with 39 points. The Runner Up for the 1-12 The last qualifier was played at Parkstone Golf Club League titles, two Border League wide expansive game of rugby we greenkeepers won handsomely! Dadge with 2-4 and Shaun Kench Handicap Division was Steve Campbell with 37 points in Poole. BIGGA’s South West & South Wales Regional crowns, two Border Cups, a like to play. This brand of rugby The greenkeepers batted first, with 2-9. A full match report can and the Winner for the division and the Whitelaw Bowl Administrator Tracey Harvey said: Scottish Cup, four ‘Kings of the is also popular with our club’s and a great start saw S Down be found at www.cndcc.co.uk. was Neil Robinson with 40 points (above left). “The course was in tip top condition and was Sevens’ titles and several other supporters and lets them see some and E Ruff score impressive half Thank you to all who played Phil Dewhurst of Rigby Taylor presented the prizes thoroughly enjoyed by all.” tournaments. great tries being scored throughout centuries. and to Chipping Norton & District and thanked Neil and his team for preparing the course, At Parkstone greenkeeper and BIGGA member Ross said: “Playing rugby in this the season, it does however mean The score continued to creep up Cricket Club for hosting it. Penrith Golf Club for hosting the event and to everyone Jackson Ainley from Brokenhurst Manor Golf Club had team environment is not dissimilar that our forward pack remains and the greenkeepers declared on Sam hopes to arrange a few for attending and supporting this traditional annual a hole in one! Parkstone club captain Dick Bell presented to our approach at the Roxburghe. mobile and is highly skilled in all 221-7. In the following innings, all more games next season in the competition. proud Jackson with a certificate to mark his ace (above). Course Manager Grant Frogley, aspects of open play rugby. We also the greenkeepers bowled, except BB&O area, so if interested please The date for this event next year is already booked so Everris have placed on record their thanks to all myself and the team ensure a have an excellent coaching team Tucklett who kept wicket. contact him on snave_mas@ make a note in your diaries - Thursday 15 September members who supported each of the qualifiers – keep an professional approach to our work and backup support team at the The greenkeepers struggled to hotmail.com. 2015 with tees from 1pm at Penrith Golf Club. eye out for coverage of the final soon. and that of the team to produce a club.” MANSFIELD SAND ANNOUNCED AS SOUTH WEST SECTION VISIT WENTWORTH Kenny Mackay recently took time NEW BIGGA EDUCATION SUPPORTER out of his hugely busy schedule to show members of the South West Section around the West Course at Wentworth. Kenny showed real passion and a hugely in depth knowledge of BIGGA are delighted to announce Mansfield Sand Golf Sales what makes Wentworth tick as a Mansfield Sand as our latest Manager Sharon Morris said: business. He described the West Education Supporter. “We’re keen to raise our profile in Course renovation processes in The long-established the turf management industry great detail. Nottinghamshire based company and this new partnership is an Nothing was hidden or made its debut at BTME 2014 ideal way of helping us achieve dismissed and Kenny clearly knew and is a specialist supplier this. We’re looking forward to a exactly where the course was going of a comprehensive range of long and fruitful partnership with in the next 12 months and was materials for the construction and BIGGA.” happy to share this information. maintenance of top class sports The funding and assistance Everyone took away something and landscape surfaces. provided by BIGGA Partners and useful in terms of knowledge and They have been quarrying Education Supporters underpins inspiration from this first class sand in Mansfield for nearly 200 the Association’s considerable afternoon. Thanks to Kenny and years and supply over 400 UK golf investment in CPD and all our the Wentworth Club for their courses with rootzone materials, educational activity and we urge hospitality. topdressing and bunker sand. you to show them your support. Paul Worster

12 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 GI 13 GI NEWSDESK GI NEWSDESK

Masham up in North Yorkshire BIGGA members gathered from Halifax, Huddersfield and correct products at the correct Our Greens Chairman for a recent golf day at as far afield as Scarborough. time in order to enhance Norman stood in on the day Masham Golf Club in the course and ensure the and played with the other North Yorkshire sponsored Q How did the greens and playing surface was at its best. players, ironically he got the by Baroness and also playing surfaces look? We work closely with David best score, I think we can supported by Agronomic The greens looked fantastic; Snowden, who is our advisor at put that down to ’local Services. We spoke to we had numerous comments Agronomic Services Ltd. knowledge’! CHALARA SPREADING RAPIDLY greenkeeper Neil Austwick about how impressive they They supply us with a range Chalara survey time has arrived with west Scotland. By 11 August another The disease continues to push further to find out more... looked. of products which include Oxy- Q Would Masham be happy Forestry Commission’s (FC) plant health 17 wider environment infections were into Cambridgeshire from East Anglia and Rush and Osiryl in conjunction to host this type of event survey teams pounding woodlands looking confirmed, all in Northumberland and the Hampshire from West Sussex. Q How many people turned Q Tell me how you prepared with Floratine’s Foliar and Soil again? for diseased ash trees. Scottish Borders, more than doubling the Funny thing is this fast growing number out to support you on the the greens for the Golf products. We would very definitely They appear to be finding plenty and in number in this region. of new and serious outbreaks, many in day? Day (ie. what products and host this type of event again as new places too despite recent comments Thirty six more were confirmed on 26 areas hitherto untouched by disease, has The Golf Day here at services did you use?) Q Do you think the Golf Day it really was enjoyed by all. I from FC that spread of chalara had slowed August. Outbreaks in West Sussex and failed to provoke any public statement Masham was promoted Planning ahead was key; was a success? haven’t played golf for about down. Surrey doubled to 20 with two wider from the UK plant health authorities and through the BIGGA Section, we have been very busy with It was a huge success. five years but had a great day. ‘Chalara hunting season’ essentially lasts environment outbreaks recorded for the consequently has received absolutely no which meant that we had a competitions and invitation Everyone thoroughly enjoyed We work really hard to just a few months from July to October, first time in neighbouring Hampshire. coverage in the broader media. good turnout of 25. days. We knew about the Golf the course, although some manage our greens, and are starting when the spores (ascospores) are Lincolnshire was another hot spot with The only statement appears on the FC They had heard that we kept Day earlier in the year so could players tore up their score very proud of what we do. released from fruiting bodies (apothecia) confirmed outbreaks tripling from five to website underneath the map. a good course here and that’s plan our product maintenance cards at the end! You have to be It was a privilege to be on previous years’ fallen leaf stalks to infect 15. “These new cases are due to increased why we held it at Masham Golf programme. accurate here, particularly with part and take part in such a new leaves, until autumnal leaf colouration Majority of the remaining new cases survey activity and not to a sudden Club. We had members arrive We were able to apply the your driver. memorable day. makes accurate identification of leaf were in Kent, North Norfolk and the increase in Chalara infection”. What they infections difficult. Northumberland/Scottish borders region. really mean is the disease has already Air 2G2 Self Propelled Aerator Total number of confirmed cases had After a long delay FC next updated the spread (and is still spreading) more rapidly • 180cm Working Width • 19HP Kholer Petrol Engine been stubbornly stuck at around 660 for map on 15 September. Sixty three new than they anticipated or assumed and • 10” or 7” Working Depth • 55Ltr 2 Stage Compressor many months until 4 August when some cases were added with 54 in the wider causing them to play ‘catch up’. “Provides improved growth in the root zone and better drainage with no surface disruption, so play can be resumed immediately after use.” 20 new ones were added by FC to its map of environment. FC still talks about ‘Protected Zone confirmed infection sites. The Lancashire outbreak had tripled in Status’ for those parts of the country where Almost all were in the wider environment size spreading west to Blackpool, south chalara has not been found in the wider Call us including one in Bristol, two on the to Rochdale and north into the Forest of environment. to arrange Hampshire/Surrey border near Farnham Bowland. Surely these latest findings will knock a demo and a 10-outbreak surge in Lancashire New outbreaks in Scotland were that idea on the head. How on earth can around Burnley, Blackburn, Preston and discovered at Perth and north and south of you set up ‘Protected Zones’ in a small Clitheroe. Glasgow. country like the UK for a fungal pathogen Milton Common, Thame Oxfordshire ...... 01844 278843 The outbreak in Lancashire was the first There were more new outbreaks in and disease which is spread by airborne Hinckley, Leicestershire ...... 01455 638960 www.farol.co.uk wider environment infection confirmed Northumberland and Lincolnshire and one spores and with no means of control? Shefford, Hungerford, Berkshire ...... 01488 648552 e-mail: [email protected] within a huge region covering north-west in a previously untouched area of the West Midhurst, West Sussex ...... 01730 819981 England, mid and north Wales and south Country near Shepton Mallet in Somerset. Dr Terry Mabbett Byfield, Daventry, Northamptonshire ...... 01327 264844 FarolLtd @FarolLtd

14 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 GI 15 GI NEWSDESK GI NEWSDESK

Masham up in North Yorkshire BIGGA members gathered from Halifax, Huddersfield and correct products at the correct Our Greens Chairman for a recent golf day at as far afield as Scarborough. time in order to enhance Norman stood in on the day Masham Golf Club in the course and ensure the and played with the other North Yorkshire sponsored Q How did the greens and playing surface was at its best. players, ironically he got the by Baroness and also playing surfaces look? We work closely with David best score, I think we can supported by Agronomic The greens looked fantastic; Snowden, who is our advisor at put that down to ’local Services. We spoke to we had numerous comments Agronomic Services Ltd. knowledge’! CHALARA SPREADING RAPIDLY greenkeeper Neil Austwick about how impressive they They supply us with a range Chalara survey time has arrived with west Scotland. By 11 August another The disease continues to push further to find out more... looked. of products which include Oxy- Q Would Masham be happy Forestry Commission’s (FC) plant health 17 wider environment infections were into Cambridgeshire from East Anglia and Rush and Osiryl in conjunction to host this type of event survey teams pounding woodlands looking confirmed, all in Northumberland and the Hampshire from West Sussex. Q How many people turned Q Tell me how you prepared with Floratine’s Foliar and Soil again? for diseased ash trees. Scottish Borders, more than doubling the Funny thing is this fast growing number out to support you on the the greens for the Golf products. We would very definitely They appear to be finding plenty and in number in this region. of new and serious outbreaks, many in day? Day (ie. what products and host this type of event again as new places too despite recent comments Thirty six more were confirmed on 26 areas hitherto untouched by disease, has The Golf Day here at services did you use?) Q Do you think the Golf Day it really was enjoyed by all. I from FC that spread of chalara had slowed August. Outbreaks in West Sussex and failed to provoke any public statement Masham was promoted Planning ahead was key; was a success? haven’t played golf for about down. Surrey doubled to 20 with two wider from the UK plant health authorities and through the BIGGA Section, we have been very busy with It was a huge success. five years but had a great day. ‘Chalara hunting season’ essentially lasts environment outbreaks recorded for the consequently has received absolutely no which meant that we had a competitions and invitation Everyone thoroughly enjoyed We work really hard to just a few months from July to October, first time in neighbouring Hampshire. coverage in the broader media. good turnout of 25. days. We knew about the Golf the course, although some manage our greens, and are starting when the spores (ascospores) are Lincolnshire was another hot spot with The only statement appears on the FC They had heard that we kept Day earlier in the year so could players tore up their score very proud of what we do. released from fruiting bodies (apothecia) confirmed outbreaks tripling from five to website underneath the map. a good course here and that’s plan our product maintenance cards at the end! You have to be It was a privilege to be on previous years’ fallen leaf stalks to infect 15. “These new cases are due to increased why we held it at Masham Golf programme. accurate here, particularly with part and take part in such a new leaves, until autumnal leaf colouration Majority of the remaining new cases survey activity and not to a sudden Club. We had members arrive We were able to apply the your driver. memorable day. makes accurate identification of leaf were in Kent, North Norfolk and the increase in Chalara infection”. What they infections difficult. Northumberland/Scottish borders region. really mean is the disease has already Air 2G2 Self Propelled Aerator Total number of confirmed cases had After a long delay FC next updated the spread (and is still spreading) more rapidly • 180cm Working Width • 19HP Kholer Petrol Engine been stubbornly stuck at around 660 for map on 15 September. Sixty three new than they anticipated or assumed and • 10” or 7” Working Depth • 55Ltr 2 Stage Compressor many months until 4 August when some cases were added with 54 in the wider causing them to play ‘catch up’. “Provides improved growth in the root zone and better drainage with no surface disruption, so play can be resumed immediately after use.” 20 new ones were added by FC to its map of environment. FC still talks about ‘Protected Zone confirmed infection sites. The Lancashire outbreak had tripled in Status’ for those parts of the country where Almost all were in the wider environment size spreading west to Blackpool, south chalara has not been found in the wider Call us including one in Bristol, two on the to Rochdale and north into the Forest of environment. to arrange Hampshire/Surrey border near Farnham Bowland. Surely these latest findings will knock a demo and a 10-outbreak surge in Lancashire New outbreaks in Scotland were that idea on the head. How on earth can around Burnley, Blackburn, Preston and discovered at Perth and north and south of you set up ‘Protected Zones’ in a small Clitheroe. Glasgow. country like the UK for a fungal pathogen Milton Common, Thame Oxfordshire ...... 01844 278843 The outbreak in Lancashire was the first There were more new outbreaks in and disease which is spread by airborne Hinckley, Leicestershire ...... 01455 638960 www.farol.co.uk wider environment infection confirmed Northumberland and Lincolnshire and one spores and with no means of control? Shefford, Hungerford, Berkshire ...... 01488 648552 e-mail: [email protected] within a huge region covering north-west in a previously untouched area of the West Midhurst, West Sussex ...... 01730 819981 England, mid and north Wales and south Country near Shepton Mallet in Somerset. Dr Terry Mabbett Byfield, Daventry, Northamptonshire ...... 01327 264844 FarolLtd @FarolLtd

14 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 GI 15 Membership The latest news News from BIGGA 0%* Finance Membership News - the You can contact BIGGA House, You can also save money 0+2 Annual section which updates you on our Regional Offices, our with our BIGGA Xtra Benefits the countless benefits of being Personal Accident Helpline, scheme. More information can Payments a BIGGA member. We’re on Legal Assistance and our be found in the Members’ Area 1st Payment hand to help. Lifestyle Counselling Helpline. of the BIGGA website. March 2015

EXCLUSIVE ARCO DISCOUNTS Contact Details Tracey Maddison General Manager traceymaddison@ FOR BIGGA MEMBERS bigga.co.uk

Elaine Jones Arco’s new Big Book catalogue Membership Executive for 2014/15 is hot off the press; [email protected] offering BIGGA members Rachael Duffy exclusive discounts across a Events & Membership Executive wide range of products including [email protected] workwear, weather wear and Tel: 01347 833800 safety equipment. Bigger than (option 1 for Membership) ever, the new catalogue spans 972 pages and offers even more choice You can follow BIGGA on including new product ranges, Twitter @BIGGALtd training packages and consultancy services. As the UK’s leading Safety BIGGA Company, Arco is dedicated to Regional Offices keeping people safe at work. With pages giving advice and guidance Scotland & N. Ireland on choosing the right product John Young for the job, the Big Book is also a 07776 242120 trusted source of information and [email protected] expert advice. It offers an extensive Northern choice of products to suit a variety Sandra Raper 07866 366966 Take Control of Premium Cut Quality of needs and budgets, including sandra@bigga. co.uk Arco own brand products @sandra4bigganor Our NEW generation of Fairway Mowers redefi ne cut quality and some of the best known and combine it with uncompromising productivity. Take advantage brands in the industry. Cutting Midland Roger Butler of our latest innovations like eHydro operation, TechControl costs shouldn’t have to mean 07525 593 359 compromising on comfort or safety [email protected] management and SpeedLink cutting unit adjustment. Achieve the and the new catalogue promises South East cut quality your course desires with the NEW A-Series. Clive Osgood customers extraordinary value, 01737 819343 with competitive prices. 07841 948410 [email protected] With winter fast approaching, @cliveosgood thermal comfort is essential for worker productivity and good South West & South Wales health. Arco has developed a smart Tracey Harvey NEW winter weather wear layering 07841 948110 [email protected] system that includes a wide range of base layers, mid layers and outer garments all designed To help ensure BIGGA members To get your copy of the Arco Big OTHER USEFUL to keep workers warm, dry and get their products when they need Book, call your local sales office, NUMBERS (Full Members only) OFFICIAL comfortable. them, Arco also offers five delivery visit your nearest Arco store or GOLF COURSE A brand new addition to the options, including a date specific go online to www.arco.co.uk/ Personal Accident Helpline EQUIPMENT SUPPLIER weather wear range is the Trojan and next day by 10am service. catrequest. 0207 2048952 interactive jacket that can be used Further ensuring peace of mind, Greenkeepers Legal Assistance together with the Trojan fleece and Arco’s order acknowledgement 0800 177 7891 * The fi nance offer is available for Golf & Bowls clubs in the UK only. The offer includes all golf Trojan Glacier jacket for complete service keeps all of its customers & turf equipment, commercial mowing, utility vehicles and JD attachments. Offer is available Lifestyle Counselling Helpline protection against extreme fully informed throughout the 0844 770 1036 until 28th February 2015. Finance is limited to 60% of retail value. Rates/payments may vary weather conditions. delivery process. www.arclegal.co.uk/carefirst to refl ect changes in tax and cost of funds. VAT where applicable. An administration fee will be charged. We may withdraw this offer at any time. Finance is subject to status. Terms and

conditions apply. For further information contact your local John Deere dealer. JohnDeere.com TS60070.1 ENG_GOLF14_LET14_PGA

16 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd

TS60070_1_ENGGB_Golf14_LET14_PGA_210x297.indd 1 22.09.14 11:44 Membership The latest news News from BIGGA 0%* Finance Membership News - the You can contact BIGGA House, You can also save money 0+2 Annual section which updates you on our Regional Offices, our with our BIGGA Xtra Benefits the countless benefits of being Personal Accident Helpline, scheme. More information can Payments a BIGGA member. We’re on Legal Assistance and our be found in the Members’ Area 1st Payment hand to help. Lifestyle Counselling Helpline. of the BIGGA website. March 2015

EXCLUSIVE ARCO DISCOUNTS Contact Details Tracey Maddison General Manager traceymaddison@ FOR BIGGA MEMBERS bigga.co.uk

Elaine Jones Arco’s new Big Book catalogue Membership Executive for 2014/15 is hot off the press; [email protected] offering BIGGA members Rachael Duffy exclusive discounts across a Events & Membership Executive wide range of products including [email protected] workwear, weather wear and Tel: 01347 833800 safety equipment. Bigger than (option 1 for Membership) ever, the new catalogue spans 972 pages and offers even more choice You can follow BIGGA on including new product ranges, Twitter @BIGGALtd training packages and consultancy services. As the UK’s leading Safety BIGGA Company, Arco is dedicated to Regional Offices keeping people safe at work. With pages giving advice and guidance Scotland & N. Ireland on choosing the right product John Young for the job, the Big Book is also a 07776 242120 trusted source of information and [email protected] expert advice. It offers an extensive Northern choice of products to suit a variety Sandra Raper 07866 366966 Take Control of Premium Cut Quality of needs and budgets, including sandra@bigga. co.uk Arco own brand products @sandra4bigganor Our NEW generation of Fairway Mowers redefi ne cut quality and some of the best known and combine it with uncompromising productivity. Take advantage brands in the industry. Cutting Midland Roger Butler of our latest innovations like eHydro operation, TechControl costs shouldn’t have to mean 07525 593 359 compromising on comfort or safety [email protected] management and SpeedLink cutting unit adjustment. Achieve the and the new catalogue promises South East cut quality your course desires with the NEW A-Series. Clive Osgood customers extraordinary value, 01737 819343 with competitive prices. 07841 948410 [email protected] With winter fast approaching, @cliveosgood thermal comfort is essential for worker productivity and good South West & South Wales health. Arco has developed a smart Tracey Harvey NEW winter weather wear layering 07841 948110 [email protected] system that includes a wide range of base layers, mid layers and outer garments all designed To help ensure BIGGA members To get your copy of the Arco Big OTHER USEFUL to keep workers warm, dry and get their products when they need Book, call your local sales office, NUMBERS (Full Members only) OFFICIAL comfortable. them, Arco also offers five delivery visit your nearest Arco store or GOLF COURSE A brand new addition to the options, including a date specific go online to www.arco.co.uk/ Personal Accident Helpline EQUIPMENT SUPPLIER weather wear range is the Trojan and next day by 10am service. catrequest. 0207 2048952 interactive jacket that can be used Further ensuring peace of mind, Greenkeepers Legal Assistance together with the Trojan fleece and Arco’s order acknowledgement 0800 177 7891 * The fi nance offer is available for Golf & Bowls clubs in the UK only. The offer includes all golf Trojan Glacier jacket for complete service keeps all of its customers & turf equipment, commercial mowing, utility vehicles and JD attachments. Offer is available Lifestyle Counselling Helpline protection against extreme fully informed throughout the 0844 770 1036 until 28th February 2015. Finance is limited to 60% of retail value. Rates/payments may vary weather conditions. delivery process. www.arclegal.co.uk/carefirst to refl ect changes in tax and cost of funds. VAT where applicable. An administration fee will be charged. We may withdraw this offer at any time. Finance is subject to status. Terms and

conditions apply. For further information contact your local John Deere dealer. JohnDeere.com TS60070.1 ENG_GOLF14_LET14_PGA

16 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd

TS60070_1_ENGGB_Golf14_LET14_PGA_210x297.indd 1 22.09.14 11:44 L&D NEWS

cristata without dense tufts appearing.

Ball retrieval/Playability L&D News Moderate to good if sward is managed (not overly tussocky). Earn a CPD credit for The latest from the Learning and Difficult to play from if Koeleria completing the quiz: cristata is the dominant species in Development department at BIGGA the rough. 1. Where is Crested Hair Grass found? Tall Fescue - Festuca Dry calcareous arundinacea grassland Learning & Development and training, supported by funding your future. Damp woodlands News has the latest updates our BIGGA Partners, BIGGA Contact the Learning & Identification Acidic heathland on CPD and everything related Education Supporters and Development team at BIGGA Erect, stout culms; 45-200 cm Artic tundra to greenkeeper education Individual Contributors – House for more information. tall with 2-5 smooth nodes Ligules; <2 mm, membranous 2. What does Crested Rough, green leaves, 10-60 cm Hair Grass not tolerate? ROUGH GRASSES long, tapered toward end and flat Golf traffic Lanceolate, erect panicles; loose Cutting The next in our series of and coloured green-purplish Intense grazing articles highlighting a section Row of short hairs on auricle Drought of BIGGA’s On Course Field Guide is on the Identification General 3. Tall Fescue is a of Rough Grasses. Native perennial found native plant of which This section was written by throughout the British Isles in area? Lee Penrose and Bob Taylor from grassy places and riverbanks on North America STRI. It’s a very useful guide to the most types of soil. British Isles lesser-known grasses common on China many of the UK’s golf courses. The Ecological value Europe introduction includes a glossary of Forms large, dense tussocks if terms used to help identify parts of unmanaged, there- fore provides 4. Tall Fescue can be the grass plant. good habitat for invertebrates and identified by its; Remember, the Field Guides are breeding birds. There are many Claw-like auricles a benefit of membership and are strains of Festuca arundinacea Ligules >4mm, no FREE to all members. If you wish occupying many distinct habitats, membranes to claim your copy then contact the taller, more robust kinds grow Rolled spear-like please contact BIGGA and a copy Characterised by dense tussocks - providing on heavy soils in low lying areas leaves will be sent out to you. difficult playing conditions and riverbanks, whilst the shorter Ligules <2mm, Again one Education CPD credit varieties grow in grazed pastures in membranous co-dominant with Festuca is available for reading the article sandy soils. and completing the quiz. ovina, associated flowers may 5. What type of soil be tormentil, sheep’s sorrel and AberRoyal Management conditions does heath or ladies’ bedstraw. Insects Crested Hair Grass - Koeleria Browntop Bent Festuca arundinacea Mat-Grass indicate? UK bred for UK golf greens and small mammals can thrive cristata regenerates via seed. It will form Calcareous meadow (out-competes Poa annua) in the protection given to them by thick tufts if unmanaged reducing soil Identification For an excellent range of the large canopy. Ground-nesting high quality fertilisers and seeds ecological interest and can appear Highly fertile Flowering culms; to 60 cm tall, designed to meet the speci c birds will also be attracted by this needs of the amenity industry, untidy. farmland 1-3 noded and downy simply buy direct from species due to the good cover and the specialists at Acidic soils of low Leaves; rolled in shoot, grey/ number of insects inhabiting it. Ball retrieval/Playability fertility green and densely hairy all over Vegetative shoots - note very short ligule Moderate if well managed, poor Wet-logged soils Management Ligules to 1 mm long and without management. membranous soon after release resulting in www.germinalamenity.com Although classed as a stress- 6. What is the best way Spike-like panicles very dense Inflorescence (flower head - dense particle) the appearance of clusters of Scan the QR code to tolerant grass, Nardus stricta can Individualhave theContributors: right mixture Steven Mat-Grass – Nardus stricta to maintain Mat-Grass? Forms loose tufts seedlings. Tierneyat MG, your fingertipsChris Lomas MG, dominate where soil conditions ‘Aber’ is a registered trade mark of Germinal Holdings Limited Regular mowing, Andrew Campbell MG CGCS, W are favourable and competition J Rogers, Sam Langrick, Espen Identification boxing clippings off General Management Bergmann, Nick Gray, Steve Dixon, poor to reduce ecological diversity Richard McGlynn, Douglas Duguid, 10-40 cm tall wiry culms, single Flailing and leaving Common plant found across Koeleria cristata is a slow Jaey Goodchild, Michael Beaton, Inflorescence of the sward. Infrequent cutting, noded and erect (flower head) - note clippings the British Isles on dry calcareous growing, loosely tufted, winter David Barker, Greg Evans, Frank flailing and removal of litter will Newberry Bristle-like, grey/green leaves, seeds only on one Regular flailing and grasslands, from sea level to 400 green grass that regenerates side and thin wiry help reduce the chances of a tightly inrolled, stiff, pointed and culms removal of clippings m, absent from wetland and freely via seeds. It can, without monoculture, whilst keeping Contact Details <30 cm long Infrequent mowing woodland. This grass varies is size, management, become tussocky a sustainable and natural Sami Strutt Spikes; erect, very slender, peaty soils at all altitudes less than and removal of hairiness and rigidity of the leaf and unkempt over time. It Head of Member population on the golf course. green-purplish, 3-8cm with seeds clippings blades and colour. is tolerant to stresses and Development 1000 m. Good indicator of acidic 07818 405606 on one side only disturbances to the land, however [email protected] conditions on golf courses. Ball retrieval/Playability Usually forms dense tufts Ecological value will not tolerate intense grazing; Stuart Green Balls may be readily visible hence rabbits and hares on a Head of Member Ecological value but playability may be difficult as Useful in infertile and rocky General golf course will help control this Learning Nardus stricta can be an asset Nardus stricta will form compact, areas as will grow well providing [email protected] A tough, wiry grass of heath and some good ground cover for species. @Stuart_BIGGA to an upland golf course, creating close tussocks. If kept away moorland wide- spread throughout a natural feel within the rough. Cutting, and removal of Deb Burnett from play areas, with a barrier small mammals and other the British Isles. calcareous grasses, i.e. Festuca leaf litter, once per year will L&D Administrator Associated flora is moderate to of other less dense grasses and [email protected] Will colonise most acid soils spp. Aesthetically pleasing during be sufficient to keep a diverse poor due to its dense tussocks wild flowers, then should pose no 01347 833800 (option 3) of low fertility, dry soils to damp autumn as seeds germinate grassland containing Koeleria www.bigga.org.uk and persistent litter. Usually problems to play.

18 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 GI 19 L&D NEWS

cristata without dense tufts appearing.

Ball retrieval/Playability L&D News Moderate to good if sward is managed (not overly tussocky). Earn a CPD credit for The latest from the Learning and Difficult to play from if Koeleria completing the quiz: cristata is the dominant species in Development department at BIGGA the rough. 1. Where is Crested Hair Grass found? Tall Fescue - Festuca Dry calcareous arundinacea grassland Learning & Development and training, supported by funding your future. Damp woodlands News has the latest updates our BIGGA Partners, BIGGA Contact the Learning & Identification Acidic heathland on CPD and everything related Education Supporters and Development team at BIGGA Erect, stout culms; 45-200 cm Artic tundra to greenkeeper education Individual Contributors – House for more information. tall with 2-5 smooth nodes Ligules; <2 mm, membranous 2. What does Crested Rough, green leaves, 10-60 cm Hair Grass not tolerate? ROUGH GRASSES long, tapered toward end and flat Golf traffic Lanceolate, erect panicles; loose Cutting The next in our series of and coloured green-purplish Intense grazing articles highlighting a section Row of short hairs on auricle Drought of BIGGA’s On Course Field Guide is on the Identification General 3. Tall Fescue is a of Rough Grasses. Native perennial found native plant of which This section was written by throughout the British Isles in area? Lee Penrose and Bob Taylor from grassy places and riverbanks on North America STRI. It’s a very useful guide to the most types of soil. British Isles lesser-known grasses common on China many of the UK’s golf courses. The Ecological value Europe introduction includes a glossary of Forms large, dense tussocks if terms used to help identify parts of unmanaged, there- fore provides 4. Tall Fescue can be the grass plant. good habitat for invertebrates and identified by its; Remember, the Field Guides are breeding birds. There are many Claw-like auricles a benefit of membership and are strains of Festuca arundinacea Ligules >4mm, no FREE to all members. If you wish occupying many distinct habitats, membranes to claim your copy then contact the taller, more robust kinds grow Rolled spear-like please contact BIGGA and a copy Characterised by dense tussocks - providing on heavy soils in low lying areas leaves will be sent out to you. difficult playing conditions and riverbanks, whilst the shorter Ligules <2mm, Again one Education CPD credit varieties grow in grazed pastures in membranous co-dominant with Festuca is available for reading the article sandy soils. and completing the quiz. ovina, associated flowers may 5. What type of soil be tormentil, sheep’s sorrel and AberRoyal Management conditions does heath or ladies’ bedstraw. Insects Crested Hair Grass - Koeleria Browntop Bent Festuca arundinacea Mat-Grass indicate? UK bred for UK golf greens and small mammals can thrive cristata regenerates via seed. It will form Calcareous meadow (out-competes Poa annua) in the protection given to them by thick tufts if unmanaged reducing soil Identification For an excellent range of the large canopy. Ground-nesting high quality fertilisers and seeds ecological interest and can appear Highly fertile Flowering culms; to 60 cm tall, designed to meet the speci c birds will also be attracted by this needs of the amenity industry, untidy. farmland 1-3 noded and downy simply buy direct from species due to the good cover and the specialists at Acidic soils of low Leaves; rolled in shoot, grey/ number of insects inhabiting it. Ball retrieval/Playability fertility green and densely hairy all over Vegetative shoots - note very short ligule Moderate if well managed, poor Wet-logged soils Management Ligules to 1 mm long and without management. membranous soon after release resulting in www.germinalamenity.com Although classed as a stress- 6. What is the best way Spike-like panicles very dense Inflorescence (flower head - dense particle) the appearance of clusters of Scan the QR code to tolerant grass, Nardus stricta can Individualhave theContributors: right mixture Steven Mat-Grass – Nardus stricta to maintain Mat-Grass? Forms loose tufts seedlings. Tierneyat MG, your fingertipsChris Lomas MG, dominate where soil conditions ‘Aber’ is a registered trade mark of Germinal Holdings Limited Regular mowing, Andrew Campbell MG CGCS, W are favourable and competition J Rogers, Sam Langrick, Espen Identification boxing clippings off General Management Bergmann, Nick Gray, Steve Dixon, poor to reduce ecological diversity Richard McGlynn, Douglas Duguid, 10-40 cm tall wiry culms, single Flailing and leaving Common plant found across Koeleria cristata is a slow Jaey Goodchild, Michael Beaton, Inflorescence of the sward. Infrequent cutting, noded and erect (flower head) - note clippings the British Isles on dry calcareous growing, loosely tufted, winter David Barker, Greg Evans, Frank flailing and removal of litter will Newberry Bristle-like, grey/green leaves, seeds only on one Regular flailing and grasslands, from sea level to 400 green grass that regenerates side and thin wiry help reduce the chances of a tightly inrolled, stiff, pointed and culms removal of clippings m, absent from wetland and freely via seeds. It can, without monoculture, whilst keeping Contact Details <30 cm long Infrequent mowing woodland. This grass varies is size, management, become tussocky a sustainable and natural Sami Strutt Spikes; erect, very slender, peaty soils at all altitudes less than and removal of hairiness and rigidity of the leaf and unkempt over time. It Head of Member population on the golf course. green-purplish, 3-8cm with seeds clippings blades and colour. is tolerant to stresses and Development 1000 m. Good indicator of acidic 07818 405606 on one side only disturbances to the land, however [email protected] conditions on golf courses. Ball retrieval/Playability Usually forms dense tufts Ecological value will not tolerate intense grazing; Stuart Green Balls may be readily visible hence rabbits and hares on a Head of Member Ecological value but playability may be difficult as Useful in infertile and rocky General golf course will help control this Learning Nardus stricta can be an asset Nardus stricta will form compact, areas as will grow well providing [email protected] A tough, wiry grass of heath and some good ground cover for species. @Stuart_BIGGA to an upland golf course, creating close tussocks. If kept away moorland wide- spread throughout a natural feel within the rough. Cutting, and removal of Deb Burnett from play areas, with a barrier small mammals and other the British Isles. calcareous grasses, i.e. Festuca leaf litter, once per year will L&D Administrator Associated flora is moderate to of other less dense grasses and [email protected] Will colonise most acid soils spp. Aesthetically pleasing during be sufficient to keep a diverse poor due to its dense tussocks wild flowers, then should pose no 01347 833800 (option 3) of low fertility, dry soils to damp autumn as seeds germinate grassland containing Koeleria www.bigga.org.uk and persistent litter. Usually problems to play.

18 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 GI 19 L&D NEWS

L&D TEAM UPDATE As our L&D activity continues to increase, we’ve made some alterations in the structure of the department. Sami Strutt is now Head of Member Development and will be handling the provision of member education which covers Continue to Learn, the Future Turf Managers Initiative, BIGGA’s member training strategy and education at events such as Saltex. Sami is now working remotely. Stuart Green’s new role is Head of Member Learning which covers formal greenkeeper education from apprenticeships to funding, CPD administration, Master Greenkeeper and Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year. He will also be continuing to liaise heavily with colleges and training providers. Supporting Stuart on a daily basis is our newest recruit Deb Burnett (right), who has accepted the role of L&D Administrator. SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED Congratulations to Jack Morrison and Philip REPORT WRITING Iball who have become the latest recipients of the Higher Education Scholarship supported MADE EASY by Jacobsen. Jack (right), a greenkeeper at Wentworth, A new library book will be studying for a HNC in Golf Course is available in the Management at SRUC Elmwood College. BIGGA library – Philip (above) will be studying a Foundation ‘Report Writing degree in Sportsturf at Myerscough College. Made Easy’. This is a He spent this summer working at Southport complete workshop & Ainsdale Golf Club. Good luck to both kit designed to help greenkeepers in their studies. For more on trainers deliver BIGGA’s many funding opportunities head to effective training our website and click on Education>Funding in report writing Opportunities. skills. It contains everything you need to set up and deliver CPD Approved Members This Month a top quality one or Laurence Pithie MG - Turfmaster two day workshop One Ltd on effective report Robert George - Thorndon Park writing. CPD Approved status: GC Peter Newton - Rockliffe Hall GC James Braithwaite - Long Ashton Pack contents - Steven Tierney MG - Golfpark GC 1. Masters File (2 Nuolen AG Arnold Phipps-Jones - Three copies) Brett Moggridge - Kirtlington GC Rivers Golf & Country Club 2. Session Notes Kevin O'Neill - Muswell Hill GC Andrew Foulds - Wimbledon 3. Tools and Techniques Stephen Clark - Spalding GC Park GC 4. Session Overviews Derek Grendowicz - Raevo Golf Harry Larkins - 5. Poster pack containing 8 posters Developments Northamptonshire GC Members may borrow up to two books for up to six Lee Strutt MG - G West weeks. The only cost is return postage. To withdraw your Simon Connah - St Andrews CPD Milestone: books - access the Library in the Members Area. Links Trust Peter Newton - Rockliffe Hall GC

20 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd L&D NEWS

L&D TEAM UPDATE As our L&D activity continues to increase, we’ve made some alterations in the structure of the department. Sami Strutt is now Head of Member Development and will be handling the provision of member education which covers Continue to Learn, the Future Turf Managers Initiative, BIGGA’s member training strategy and education at events such as Saltex. Sami is now working remotely. Stuart Green’s new role is Head of Member Learning which covers formal greenkeeper education from apprenticeships to funding, CPD administration, Master Greenkeeper and Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year. He will also be continuing to liaise heavily with colleges and training providers. Supporting Stuart on a daily basis is our newest recruit Deb Burnett (right), who has accepted the role of L&D Administrator. SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED Congratulations to Jack Morrison and Philip REPORT WRITING Iball who have become the latest recipients of the Higher Education Scholarship supported MADE EASY by Jacobsen. Jack (right), a greenkeeper at Wentworth, A new library book will be studying for a HNC in Golf Course is available in the Management at SRUC Elmwood College. BIGGA library – Philip (above) will be studying a Foundation ‘Report Writing degree in Sportsturf at Myerscough College. Made Easy’. This is a He spent this summer working at Southport complete workshop & Ainsdale Golf Club. Good luck to both kit designed to help greenkeepers in their studies. For more on trainers deliver BIGGA’s many funding opportunities head to effective training our website and click on Education>Funding in report writing Opportunities. skills. It contains everything you need to set up and deliver CPD Approved Members This Month a top quality one or Laurence Pithie MG - Turfmaster two day workshop One Ltd on effective report Robert George - Thorndon Park writing. CPD Approved status: GC Peter Newton - Rockliffe Hall GC James Braithwaite - Long Ashton Pack contents - Steven Tierney MG - Golfpark GC 1. Masters File (2 Nuolen AG Arnold Phipps-Jones - Three copies) Brett Moggridge - Kirtlington GC Rivers Golf & Country Club 2. Session Notes Kevin O'Neill - Muswell Hill GC Andrew Foulds - Wimbledon 3. Tools and Techniques Stephen Clark - Spalding GC Park GC 4. Session Overviews Derek Grendowicz - Raevo Golf Harry Larkins - 5. Poster pack containing 8 posters Developments Northamptonshire GC Members may borrow up to two books for up to six Lee Strutt MG - G West weeks. The only cost is return postage. To withdraw your Simon Connah - St Andrews CPD Milestone: books - access the Library in the Members Area. Links Trust Peter Newton - Rockliffe Hall GC

20 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd RANSOMES JACOBSEN BOOST AT RAMSIDE INDUSTRY UPDATE Ransomes Jacobsen’s Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) scheme has been in operation for almost a year now and is providing The latest turf industry news from around the globe a valued added service to end-users who may not have the budget or inclination to purchase new machinery. Ramside Hall Hotel and Golf Club, one of the top courses in the north east of England, has recently purchased five Jacobsen Eclipse 322 hybrid triplex mowers using the CPO GI scheme. Delivered earlier this season the mowers are being used to maintain the tees and greens on the Prince Bishops course and the recently opened nine holes on the club’s new Cathedral course. Roger Shaw is the Course Manager and commenting on the new mowers said: “Ransomes Jacobsen’s CPO scheme is an excellent initiative and has certainly allowed us to take advantage of this latest hybrid technology at a cost that is very favourable for the club. “I’ve been using Jacobsen greens mowers for over 20 years and the quality of cut from their cutting units is second to none. The consistency we are getting across our greens and tees is remarkable; we just dial in the frequency of cut and it’s locked in. No matter who is driving any of the mowers, they all cut exactly the same.” Nick Scott is the club’s head mechanic and has earned a high reputation for the manner in which he maintains the mixed fleet at Ramside Hall. He added: RANSOMES“Working on these Eclipse mowers is really SHERRIFF easy; the swing-outJACOBSEN centre unit is an excellent feature and AMENITY access to the engine and other major components is really good. All the systems on the Eclipse are electric, using a APPOINTMENT small diesel engine to run a generator. Because of this we Sherriff Amenity is pleased to are seeing significant fuel savings as a result.” announce the appointment of new amenity specialist Craig Spooner, who will be responsible for covering the East Anglian AERATION THE area for the company. Craig RANSOMES RANSOMES Factory Rebuilt joins from Limagrain, the largest JACOBSEN INTRODUCINGJACOBSEN Ransomes Jacobsen’s Certi ed seed company in Europe. Pre-Owned equipment is CHARTERHOUSE WAY With an impressive RANSOMES JACOBSEN employment history including completely rebuilt at our Ipswich Aeration is arguably the major would have been used half weight, available in different greenkeeping positions at a CERTIFIED PRE-OWNED manufacturing facility using the single factor in any successful a dozen times in a year, and working widths and with or string of golf clubs such as same OEM parts, factory assemblers turf care maintenance. But then usually only in the without rear rollers, but can The Forest of Arden, The Isle EQUIPMENT and technicians we use on our combining it with a reduction autumn and winter months. offer a comprehensive range of of Purbeck and Leatherhead, in organic matter will see a far But now, to deal with knives and tines. This can pay Craig landed the role of Head standard equipment lines healthier plant that becomes excessive moisture build-up dividends during drier times Greenkeeper at Bourn Golf Unbeatable value on more resistant to drought, within the root zone, these where the grass plant still Club near Cambridge, where he the industry’s best Factory Inspected disease and excess moisture. machines can be seen in use needs good airflow, but not JACOBSEN JACOBSEN oversaw the redevelopment of quality-of-cut! Every piece of Certi ed Pre-Owned In time it will lead to less at any time of the year. Deeper necessarily at the depths done the greens. His career path then irrigation being required and aeration during autumn at other times of the year. took him to Limagrain where SAMPLE LISTING: machinery is given up to a 400-point overall be far more receptive is a great way to establish Aeration is all dependent he specialised in the Amenity inspection to ensure you get the to fertilising programmes. good downward movement on a healthy and vibrant sector for nearly eight years. It JACOBSEN AR522 highest-quality machine possible The result will give a playing of moisture in readiness for leaf canopy allowing the free was during this position that surface that can be relied on the wetter winter months. movement of air and nutrients he first worked with Sherriff Factory Backed throughout the year. However, thought should in the first place. If this is an Amenity when he supported the The correct aeration, at the be given to times outside of issue, and more than often sales team who were selling the All Ransomes Jacobsen Certi ed correct time, plays its part in this window to help sustain it is, then reducing the level MM and Designer range of seed. Pre-Owned equipment comes this. The iconic Verti-Drain® a healthier and more vibrant of organic matter (thatch) is Craig said: “I got to know is very well known the world grass plant. of the utmost importance with a one year factory warranty quite a lot of Sherriff Amenity giving you peace of mind that your over, but there are other types To keep the top area as well as controlling the customers during my time at of machinery that play an of the root zone open a undesirable shallow rooting Limagrain. I liked the idea of • 1,570 hours investment is fully protected equally important role. Verti-Drain® can be fitted grass species. A targeted having more products to talk to • 1 year manufacturer’s warranty included Different seasons can bring with narrower diameter scarifying programme to people about; Sherriff Amenity £20,045 different demands, but the tines. If excess weight on the aid air movement and water have the best product range for recent unpredictable weather surface becomes a factor flow, using our Graden range greenkeepers and groundsman has brought with it a necessity then one could turn to slitting of machinery, will instantly in the amenity sector and being For the best value on Ransomes Jacobsen to adapt a maintenance using either a Redexim Level create firmer, drier and much such an established company I Pre-Owned equipment, please visit regime to cope with it. A few Spike or Multi Spike. These more playable and predictable felt that it would be good move.” years back a Verti-Drain® machines are lighter in surfaces. www.ransomestrader.com GI/CPO/10/2014

22 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 GI 23

GI CPO half page ad.indd 1 05/09/2014 14:51 RANSOMES JACOBSEN BOOST AT RAMSIDE INDUSTRY UPDATE Ransomes Jacobsen’s Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) scheme has been in operation for almost a year now and is providing The latest turf industry news from around the globe a valued added service to end-users who may not have the budget or inclination to purchase new machinery. Ramside Hall Hotel and Golf Club, one of the top courses in the north east of England, has recently purchased five Jacobsen Eclipse 322 hybrid triplex mowers using the CPO GI scheme. Delivered earlier this season the mowers are being used to maintain the tees and greens on the Prince Bishops course and the recently opened nine holes on the club’s new Cathedral course. Roger Shaw is the Course Manager and commenting on the new mowers said: “Ransomes Jacobsen’s CPO scheme is an excellent initiative and has certainly allowed us to take advantage of this latest hybrid technology at a cost that is very favourable for the club. “I’ve been using Jacobsen greens mowers for over 20 years and the quality of cut from their cutting units is second to none. The consistency we are getting across our greens and tees is remarkable; we just dial in the frequency of cut and it’s locked in. No matter who is driving any of the mowers, they all cut exactly the same.” Nick Scott is the club’s head mechanic and has earned a high reputation for the manner in which he maintains the mixed fleet at Ramside Hall. He added: RANSOMES“Working on these Eclipse mowers is really SHERRIFF easy; the swing-outJACOBSEN centre unit is an excellent feature and AMENITY access to the engine and other major components is really good. All the systems on the Eclipse are electric, using a APPOINTMENT small diesel engine to run a generator. Because of this we Sherriff Amenity is pleased to are seeing significant fuel savings as a result.” announce the appointment of new amenity specialist Craig Spooner, who will be responsible for covering the East Anglian AERATION THE area for the company. Craig RANSOMES RANSOMES Factory Rebuilt joins from Limagrain, the largest JACOBSEN INTRODUCINGJACOBSEN Ransomes Jacobsen’s Certi ed seed company in Europe. Pre-Owned equipment is CHARTERHOUSE WAY With an impressive RANSOMES JACOBSEN employment history including completely rebuilt at our Ipswich Aeration is arguably the major would have been used half weight, available in different greenkeeping positions at a CERTIFIED PRE-OWNED manufacturing facility using the single factor in any successful a dozen times in a year, and working widths and with or string of golf clubs such as same OEM parts, factory assemblers turf care maintenance. But then usually only in the without rear rollers, but can The Forest of Arden, The Isle EQUIPMENT and technicians we use on our combining it with a reduction autumn and winter months. offer a comprehensive range of of Purbeck and Leatherhead, in organic matter will see a far But now, to deal with knives and tines. This can pay Craig landed the role of Head standard equipment lines healthier plant that becomes excessive moisture build-up dividends during drier times Greenkeeper at Bourn Golf Unbeatable value on more resistant to drought, within the root zone, these where the grass plant still Club near Cambridge, where he the industry’s best Factory Inspected disease and excess moisture. machines can be seen in use needs good airflow, but not JACOBSEN JACOBSEN oversaw the redevelopment of quality-of-cut! Every piece of Certi ed Pre-Owned In time it will lead to less at any time of the year. Deeper necessarily at the depths done the greens. His career path then irrigation being required and aeration during autumn at other times of the year. took him to Limagrain where SAMPLE LISTING: machinery is given up to a 400-point overall be far more receptive is a great way to establish Aeration is all dependent he specialised in the Amenity inspection to ensure you get the to fertilising programmes. good downward movement on a healthy and vibrant sector for nearly eight years. It JACOBSEN AR522 highest-quality machine possible The result will give a playing of moisture in readiness for leaf canopy allowing the free was during this position that surface that can be relied on the wetter winter months. movement of air and nutrients he first worked with Sherriff Factory Backed throughout the year. However, thought should in the first place. If this is an Amenity when he supported the The correct aeration, at the be given to times outside of issue, and more than often sales team who were selling the All Ransomes Jacobsen Certi ed correct time, plays its part in this window to help sustain it is, then reducing the level MM and Designer range of seed. Pre-Owned equipment comes this. The iconic Verti-Drain® a healthier and more vibrant of organic matter (thatch) is Craig said: “I got to know is very well known the world grass plant. of the utmost importance with a one year factory warranty quite a lot of Sherriff Amenity giving you peace of mind that your over, but there are other types To keep the top area as well as controlling the customers during my time at of machinery that play an of the root zone open a undesirable shallow rooting Limagrain. I liked the idea of • 1,570 hours investment is fully protected equally important role. Verti-Drain® can be fitted grass species. A targeted having more products to talk to • 1 year manufacturer’s warranty included Different seasons can bring with narrower diameter scarifying programme to people about; Sherriff Amenity £20,045 different demands, but the tines. If excess weight on the aid air movement and water have the best product range for recent unpredictable weather surface becomes a factor flow, using our Graden range greenkeepers and groundsman has brought with it a necessity then one could turn to slitting of machinery, will instantly in the amenity sector and being For the best value on Ransomes Jacobsen to adapt a maintenance using either a Redexim Level create firmer, drier and much such an established company I Pre-Owned equipment, please visit regime to cope with it. A few Spike or Multi Spike. These more playable and predictable felt that it would be good move.” years back a Verti-Drain® machines are lighter in surfaces. www.ransomestrader.com GI/CPO/10/2014

22 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 GI 23

GI CPO half page ad.indd 1 05/09/2014 14:51 eds waste 2 water GCM Jun 14 HV_golf_feb_folio_ 16/06/2014 14:46 Page 1

Waste2Water Extend 2 Year Interest-Free Finance Package

Brabazon Holders

With investment in a Recycling Wash System becoming an urgent Choose priority to ensure compliance with the EU Water Framework 2 YEAR Directive we looked at what we could do to assist. We launched our INTEREST-FREE in-house 2 YEAR INTEREST-FREE FINANCE PACKAGE in July FINANCE* for all orders received up to 30 September 2014. **On On all all orders orders received received by Durabunker The response has been fantastic with a record number of 30by November30 September 2014 orders received in the last quarter! With demand clearly there the problem many clubs appear to have is financing the purchase. So, Durabunker team up with Seaton Carew we’ve decided to extend the offer for all orders received up to 30 More than just a November 2014, to give everyone an opportunity to take advantage of this superb offer! Holders of the 2014 Brabazon offered by Durabunker Ltd as  Design Life 20+ Years wash-off system... Trophy, Seaton Carew GC, explained by Director, Rhydian  Significant Cost and Maintenance Savings 2 Year Interest-Free Finance Package recently announced that they Lewis:  Resistant to Extreme Weather would be continuing their “Seaton Carew is a traditional  Prevents Sand Contamination  Resistant to Burrowing Animals The scheme couldn’t be simpler: bunker renovation project using links course where staff posses  Permanent Fixed Edges In-house Scheme - so no finance to apply for or forms to fill in! Also rapidly treats the synthetic bunker solution significant bunker building  Environmentally Friendly Spreads the investment cost over up to 3 accounting years!  Granted International Patents Durabunker (formerly named experience. Ensuring the quality Buy Now Pay Later - just 8 x quarterly payments! Envirobunker). of our product is crucial but fuel and chemical Work will commence later having worked with Tony and his 100% First Year Capital Allowance this Autumn with the golf team previously, and witnessed spillages... club building under a license the results produced, we are In addition, the Waste2Water Recycling Wash System has now agreement. Tony Cartwright, very comfortable to be offering a been approved on the Water Technology List (WTL). WTL approval Head Greenkeeper at Seaton licence agreement to enable the allows a 100% First Year Enhanced Capital Allowance (ECA) to be Carew commented: “The construction to be carried out in “In 40 Years at this course, Using the Durabunker Method to Build Bunkers claimed, enabling the business to claim the full 100% investment Reduces water usage by 90% is the Most Spectacular Change Made.”Tony Cartwright, Course Manager, Seaton Carew GC finished surface produced house”. cost against taxable profits in the year of purchase. Capital when using DuraBunker is far However Durabunker also Allowances enable businesses to write off their capital assets and qualifies for 100% superior to grass. The labour offer managed contracts enabling against taxable profits. and maintenance savings made local staff to work in collaboration The standard Annual Capital Allowance is 25% of capital FYA tax allowance through Durabunker allows with specialist staff provided expenditure in each year, allowed on a reducing balance basis. The considerable man hours to be by the company, as well as full 25% allowance doesn’t sound too bad until you do the maths and under the ECA diverted to more essential course contractual services. find that it takes 8 years to reclaim 90% of your capital expenditure works. Rhydian continued: “We have Scheme The Solution to Bunker Face and Edge Erosion in any year! The 100% First Year Allowance provides a great cash “The overall effect is to present recently secured projects at flow boost! the course, particularly the Frosaker GC in Sweden and bunkers, in pristine condition. In Baden Hills GC in Germany, Installing a Waste2Water Recycling Wash System my 40 years at this course, using both courses opting to use ESD Waste2Water Europe Ltd, the Durabunker method to build our experienced team to carry Installing a Waste2Water System could not be easier, often easily bunkers, is the most spectacular out major bunker renovation retro-fitting into an existing area. The Recycling System ensures 102A Longton Road, Barlaston, change made and as head projects. Both are inland courses environmental compliance, reduces water usage by a massive 90% Staffs, ST12 9AU. England greenkeeper I am pleased to have with bunkers having sand splash and tidies up one of the worst aspects of golf course maintenance. been responsible for introducing faces and shallower, rolling If you haven’t already upgraded your equipment wash facilities Tel : 01782 373 878 the product to Seaton Carew Golf edges. Durabunker is being call us now for a free no-obligation site visit. With our 2 Year E-mail: [email protected] Club”. used to stabilize these edges, Interest-Free Finance offer and the 100% Enhanced Capital The contract option agreed at guaranteeing the longevity and [email protected] Web: www.waste2water.com Tel: +44 (0)1656 336576 Allowance reducing your tax bill you are already well on your way Seaton Carew is one of a variety integrity of design.” www.durabunker.com to funding the first year.

24 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 GI 25 eds waste 2 water GCM Jun 14 HV_golf_feb_folio_ 16/06/2014 14:46 Page 1

Waste2Water Extend 2 Year Interest-Free Finance Package

Brabazon Holders

With investment in a Recycling Wash System becoming an urgent Choose priority to ensure compliance with the EU Water Framework 2 YEAR Directive we looked at what we could do to assist. We launched our INTEREST-FREE in-house 2 YEAR INTEREST-FREE FINANCE PACKAGE in July FINANCE* for all orders received up to 30 September 2014. **On On all all orders orders received received by Durabunker The response has been fantastic with a record number of 30by November30 September 2014 orders received in the last quarter! With demand clearly there the problem many clubs appear to have is financing the purchase. So, Durabunker team up with Seaton Carew we’ve decided to extend the offer for all orders received up to 30 More than just a November 2014, to give everyone an opportunity to take advantage of this superb offer! Holders of the 2014 Brabazon offered by Durabunker Ltd as  Design Life 20+ Years wash-off system... Trophy, Seaton Carew GC, explained by Director, Rhydian  Significant Cost and Maintenance Savings 2 Year Interest-Free Finance Package recently announced that they Lewis:  Resistant to Extreme Weather would be continuing their “Seaton Carew is a traditional  Prevents Sand Contamination  Resistant to Burrowing Animals The scheme couldn’t be simpler: bunker renovation project using links course where staff posses  Permanent Fixed Edges In-house Scheme - so no finance to apply for or forms to fill in! Also rapidly treats the synthetic bunker solution significant bunker building  Environmentally Friendly Spreads the investment cost over up to 3 accounting years!  Granted International Patents Durabunker (formerly named experience. Ensuring the quality Buy Now Pay Later - just 8 x quarterly payments! Envirobunker). of our product is crucial but fuel and chemical Work will commence later having worked with Tony and his 100% First Year Capital Allowance this Autumn with the golf team previously, and witnessed spillages... club building under a license the results produced, we are In addition, the Waste2Water Recycling Wash System has now agreement. Tony Cartwright, very comfortable to be offering a been approved on the Water Technology List (WTL). WTL approval Head Greenkeeper at Seaton licence agreement to enable the allows a 100% First Year Enhanced Capital Allowance (ECA) to be Carew commented: “The construction to be carried out in “In 40 Years at this course, Using the Durabunker Method to Build Bunkers claimed, enabling the business to claim the full 100% investment Reduces water usage by 90% is the Most Spectacular Change Made.”Tony Cartwright, Course Manager, Seaton Carew GC finished surface produced house”. cost against taxable profits in the year of purchase. Capital when using DuraBunker is far However Durabunker also Allowances enable businesses to write off their capital assets and qualifies for 100% superior to grass. The labour offer managed contracts enabling against taxable profits. and maintenance savings made local staff to work in collaboration The standard Annual Capital Allowance is 25% of capital FYA tax allowance through Durabunker allows with specialist staff provided expenditure in each year, allowed on a reducing balance basis. The considerable man hours to be by the company, as well as full 25% allowance doesn’t sound too bad until you do the maths and under the ECA diverted to more essential course contractual services. find that it takes 8 years to reclaim 90% of your capital expenditure works. Rhydian continued: “We have Scheme The Solution to Bunker Face and Edge Erosion in any year! The 100% First Year Allowance provides a great cash “The overall effect is to present recently secured projects at flow boost! the course, particularly the Frosaker GC in Sweden and bunkers, in pristine condition. In Baden Hills GC in Germany, Installing a Waste2Water Recycling Wash System my 40 years at this course, using both courses opting to use ESD Waste2Water Europe Ltd, the Durabunker method to build our experienced team to carry Installing a Waste2Water System could not be easier, often easily bunkers, is the most spectacular out major bunker renovation retro-fitting into an existing area. The Recycling System ensures 102A Longton Road, Barlaston, change made and as head projects. Both are inland courses environmental compliance, reduces water usage by a massive 90% Staffs, ST12 9AU. England greenkeeper I am pleased to have with bunkers having sand splash and tidies up one of the worst aspects of golf course maintenance. been responsible for introducing faces and shallower, rolling If you haven’t already upgraded your equipment wash facilities Tel : 01782 373 878 the product to Seaton Carew Golf edges. Durabunker is being call us now for a free no-obligation site visit. With our 2 Year E-mail: [email protected] Club”. used to stabilize these edges, Interest-Free Finance offer and the 100% Enhanced Capital The contract option agreed at guaranteeing the longevity and [email protected] Web: www.waste2water.com Tel: +44 (0)1656 336576 Allowance reducing your tax bill you are already well on your way Seaton Carew is one of a variety integrity of design.” www.durabunker.com to funding the first year.

24 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 GI 25 TORO STUDENT OF THE YEAR O’Neill nails it 2014 Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year Kevin O’Neill talks to Steve Castle about starting out at Gleneagles, his time as a football groundsman and preparing for his first ever visit to America

Kevin O’Neill had little time to relax after following in Luke Turner’s footsteps to claim the Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year prize – three days after winning, he’d completed the long journey to Gleneagles to join the volunteer support team for the Ryder Cup. The legendary venue is very close to his heart as he began his career there. But firstly, we discussed his pride at becoming the competition’s 26th winner. He triumphed from a talented, enthusiastic group of six who began the final as strangers and ended it as friends. He said: “I’m very proud, I put a lot of work into this! The final was an amazing experience. I don’t think there was much between the six of us. “When you look at the names of the previous winners and the careers they’ve gone on to have it’s brought home to me how important this competition is, it’s Kevin has never been to resort, then he spent a few days the highlight of my career so far. America, and is now excitedly with the greenkeepers. Name: Kevin “The final was pretty intense. preparing for his trip in just a few He recalled: “A fire was lit for me O’Neill You’re really in the spotlight for two months. and I knew then that greenkeeping Role: Deputy days, but everyone from BIGGA He will spend six weeks at a was what I wanted to do. I loved Head Greenkeeper and the other finalists really put residential turf management finding out what they were doing, Club: Muswell Hill me at ease. The panel discussion study course at the University of and the combination of the team’s Golf Club which started the final off was a Massachusetts before visiting the hard work and camaraderie was College: Oaklands great ice-breaker. Golf Industry Show in San Antonio inspiring.” Handicap: 18 “I think I’ve been quite lucky and taking in a look at Toro’s After completing his degree, he Favourite Sports because I’ve worked with some Minneapolis HQ. used his contacts at Gleneagles to Team: Rochdale very experienced greenkeepers His journey began studying a return as a seasonal greenkeeper FC who have passed some fantastic Leisure & Recreation degree at before he was offered a full-time knowledge on to me. That’s Sheffield Hallam University, and position. He completed his Level another great thing about he was keeping his career options 2 NVQ at Elmwood while he was greenkeeping, it’s a very open open – until he went to Gleneagles there, and now has a Level 3 industry. If something works on on a summer work placement Diploma. your course, or even if something during his second year. “They were a great team. Jimmy hasn’t worked, you tell everyone He worked in the pro shop and Kidd was Estates Manager, he about it!” on the range, getting a feel for the gave me my big break really. I’ll

26 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 GI 27 TORO STUDENT OF THE YEAR O’Neill nails it 2014 Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year Kevin O’Neill talks to Steve Castle about starting out at Gleneagles, his time as a football groundsman and preparing for his first ever visit to America

Kevin O’Neill had little time to relax after following in Luke Turner’s footsteps to claim the Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year prize – three days after winning, he’d completed the long journey to Gleneagles to join the volunteer support team for the Ryder Cup. The legendary venue is very close to his heart as he began his career there. But firstly, we discussed his pride at becoming the competition’s 26th winner. He triumphed from a talented, enthusiastic group of six who began the final as strangers and ended it as friends. He said: “I’m very proud, I put a lot of work into this! The final was an amazing experience. I don’t think there was much between the six of us. “When you look at the names of the previous winners and the careers they’ve gone on to have it’s brought home to me how important this competition is, it’s Kevin has never been to resort, then he spent a few days the highlight of my career so far. America, and is now excitedly with the greenkeepers. Name: Kevin “The final was pretty intense. preparing for his trip in just a few He recalled: “A fire was lit for me O’Neill You’re really in the spotlight for two months. and I knew then that greenkeeping Role: Deputy days, but everyone from BIGGA He will spend six weeks at a was what I wanted to do. I loved Head Greenkeeper and the other finalists really put residential turf management finding out what they were doing, Club: Muswell Hill me at ease. The panel discussion study course at the University of and the combination of the team’s Golf Club which started the final off was a Massachusetts before visiting the hard work and camaraderie was College: Oaklands great ice-breaker. Golf Industry Show in San Antonio inspiring.” Handicap: 18 “I think I’ve been quite lucky and taking in a look at Toro’s After completing his degree, he Favourite Sports because I’ve worked with some Minneapolis HQ. used his contacts at Gleneagles to Team: Rochdale very experienced greenkeepers His journey began studying a return as a seasonal greenkeeper FC who have passed some fantastic Leisure & Recreation degree at before he was offered a full-time knowledge on to me. That’s Sheffield Hallam University, and position. He completed his Level another great thing about he was keeping his career options 2 NVQ at Elmwood while he was greenkeeping, it’s a very open open – until he went to Gleneagles there, and now has a Level 3 industry. If something works on on a summer work placement Diploma. your course, or even if something during his second year. “They were a great team. Jimmy hasn’t worked, you tell everyone He worked in the pro shop and Kidd was Estates Manager, he about it!” on the range, getting a feel for the gave me my big break really. I’ll

26 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 GI 27 TORO STUDENT OF THE YEAR

always remember him saying Despite enjoying his spell in ‘greenkeeping’s not a job, it’s a groundsmanship, he was always vocation’ and he was right. Scott keen to return to his first love Fenwick and Pete Pattenden were of greenkeeping and in 2008 he also key figures when I was there, spotted an opportunity as Deputy and the whole team were fantastic at Muswell Hill – a parkland course to work with. in North London. He got the job “Maintaining high standards just weeks before new Course was so important at Gleneagles. Manager Matt Plested arrived. Starting my career at one of the “I joined at an exciting time, Matt world’s premier golf resorts taught was the new Course Manager, me so much. Attention to detail there were new maintenance was absolutely critical.” facilities, and we had a young, After six happy years at inexperienced greenkeeping team. Gleneagles, he was keen to “Now we’re all qualified, it’s expand his knowledge so took mostly the same team who the bold decision to swap sports have completed all sorts of and accepted an Assistant developments and renovations Groundsman position at Charlton over the last six years. Matt’s very Athletic FC in 2006. big on the education side of things. He said: “At that time Charlton We’ve all made regular visits to were a Premier League club. I BTME, and when we get back we met the Head Groundsman Paul present a report on what we’ve Geary, he was very passionate and done.” I knew I would learn a lot from him. Kevin, who is Secretary of “It’s obviously a different BIGGA’s London Section, lives in challenge to greenkeeping, but Bounds Green with his partner the end goal is the same – present Jude and his three-year-old son the surface to the highest possible Hudson. He’s a keen supporter standard. of Rochdale FC, his hometown “I would say that on a golf club (“it was fantastic when we course a lot of your focus is on the got promoted in 2010…we’d greens, so your work is a little more been in the same division for 41 refined. In my opinion attention years before that which must be to detail is more important, the a record!”). His current handicap response of a golf ball on a green is 18. is more precise than a football The essay question posed to bouncing on a pitch. But each the finalists this year asked them have their own challenges and it to outline their career goals and was fascinating comparing the aspirations; so how did Kevin two.” reply? He then spent a year at Barnet “I’d like to be a Course Manager FC as Head Groundsman. This one day. I think I’m ready for the proved to be a real eye-opener as responsibility, I’ve got a lot of my money at the now non-league club own ideas. Ultimately I’m thankful was incredibly tight, and Kevin I work in such a great industry, no also had to deal with working on two days are the same, and I can’t Barnet’s famous sloping pitch at wait for America. their former home of Underhill. “I know the entire trip will be so “There were no resources at beneficial for my education and all, and at the time it felt a bit career, and I’m particularly looking restricting, but I didn’t realise how forward to learning more about much I’d learnt working there different types of grasses used on until I left. Aeration was walking courses over there and how the up and down the pitch with a American greenkeepers approach BACK ROW: Les Howkins MG, David Cole, Sami Strutt, Bruce Jamieson, Chris Sealey fork! turf management. I can’t wait!” FRONT ROW: Aaron Bowen, Daire Higgins, Tom Freeman, Kevin O’Neill, Wesley Lenihan, Andy Foulds “I seemed to spend less time on the agronomy side and more on THE 2014 FINAL The procedure for the final was Day two of the final began bright and people management. At that time Kevin would like to thank Andy refreshed this year to include a discussion early with the six sitting a multiple there were only six full-time staff so Wight, Mick Bithell and all at Oakland Winner: Kevin O’Neill, Muswell Hill Golf panel, a multiple choice test, an essay choice test on various aspects of I did a bit of everything – I worked College, Matt Plested and all at Club (Oaklands College) question and a 5-10 minute presentation greenkeeping, then answering an essay in the ticket office and the club Muswell Hill Golf Club, the award Runners up: Tom Freeman, from each candidate about themselves question. shop. sponsors Toro, everyone at BIGGA, Kingsdown Golf Club (Myerscough prior to interview. The final stage of the competition “I got to know the players and the other finalists (Aaron Bowen, Andy College), Wesley Lenihan, Ealing Golf The discussion panel was chaired by featured the students delivering a short most of the fans because there Foulds, Tom Freeman, Wesley Lenihan Club (Plumpton College). Les Howkins MG, Course Manager at presentation about themselves before weren’t many of them! I only spent and Daire Higgins), Jimmy Kidd, Scott Finalists: Aaron Bowen, Ipswich Golf The Richmond Golf Club and BIGGA they were interviewed by Sami Strutt, a year there but it helped me with Fenwick, Pete Pattenden and all the Club Purdis Heath (Easton Otley College), Vice Chairman. The candidates were BIGGA Head of Member Development, all sorts of different skills. You greenkeeping team at Gleneagles Andy Foulds, Wimbledon Park Golf Club asked their views on hot topics in the golf course consultant Bruce Jamieson, can’t really get more of a contrast during his time there and Paul Geary (Merrist Wood College), Daire Higgins, industry including the public perception BIGGA Chairman Chris Sealey and David - working at Gleneagles then at Charlton Athletic FC. He would also St Andrews Links (SRUC Elmwood of greenkeeping, data collection, heights Cole, Lely Turf Division Senior Manager. Barnet – but again it broadened like to thank all his family and friends College). of cut, the use of organic products in turf This panel then came to the final my experience.” for their support. management and education. decision.

28 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 GI 29 TORO STUDENT OF THE YEAR

always remember him saying Despite enjoying his spell in ‘greenkeeping’s not a job, it’s a groundsmanship, he was always vocation’ and he was right. Scott keen to return to his first love Fenwick and Pete Pattenden were of greenkeeping and in 2008 he also key figures when I was there, spotted an opportunity as Deputy and the whole team were fantastic at Muswell Hill – a parkland course to work with. in North London. He got the job “Maintaining high standards just weeks before new Course was so important at Gleneagles. Manager Matt Plested arrived. Starting my career at one of the “I joined at an exciting time, Matt world’s premier golf resorts taught was the new Course Manager, me so much. Attention to detail there were new maintenance was absolutely critical.” facilities, and we had a young, After six happy years at inexperienced greenkeeping team. Gleneagles, he was keen to “Now we’re all qualified, it’s expand his knowledge so took mostly the same team who the bold decision to swap sports have completed all sorts of and accepted an Assistant developments and renovations Groundsman position at Charlton over the last six years. Matt’s very Athletic FC in 2006. big on the education side of things. He said: “At that time Charlton We’ve all made regular visits to were a Premier League club. I BTME, and when we get back we met the Head Groundsman Paul present a report on what we’ve Geary, he was very passionate and done.” I knew I would learn a lot from him. Kevin, who is Secretary of “It’s obviously a different BIGGA’s London Section, lives in challenge to greenkeeping, but Bounds Green with his partner the end goal is the same – present Jude and his three-year-old son the surface to the highest possible Hudson. He’s a keen supporter standard. of Rochdale FC, his hometown “I would say that on a golf club (“it was fantastic when we course a lot of your focus is on the got promoted in 2010…we’d greens, so your work is a little more been in the same division for 41 refined. In my opinion attention years before that which must be to detail is more important, the a record!”). His current handicap response of a golf ball on a green is 18. is more precise than a football The essay question posed to bouncing on a pitch. But each the finalists this year asked them have their own challenges and it to outline their career goals and was fascinating comparing the aspirations; so how did Kevin two.” reply? He then spent a year at Barnet “I’d like to be a Course Manager FC as Head Groundsman. This one day. I think I’m ready for the proved to be a real eye-opener as responsibility, I’ve got a lot of my money at the now non-league club own ideas. Ultimately I’m thankful was incredibly tight, and Kevin I work in such a great industry, no also had to deal with working on two days are the same, and I can’t Barnet’s famous sloping pitch at wait for America. their former home of Underhill. “I know the entire trip will be so “There were no resources at beneficial for my education and all, and at the time it felt a bit career, and I’m particularly looking restricting, but I didn’t realise how forward to learning more about much I’d learnt working there different types of grasses used on until I left. Aeration was walking courses over there and how the up and down the pitch with a American greenkeepers approach BACK ROW: Les Howkins MG, David Cole, Sami Strutt, Bruce Jamieson, Chris Sealey fork! turf management. I can’t wait!” FRONT ROW: Aaron Bowen, Daire Higgins, Tom Freeman, Kevin O’Neill, Wesley Lenihan, Andy Foulds “I seemed to spend less time on the agronomy side and more on THE 2014 FINAL The procedure for the final was Day two of the final began bright and people management. At that time Kevin would like to thank Andy refreshed this year to include a discussion early with the six sitting a multiple there were only six full-time staff so Wight, Mick Bithell and all at Oakland Winner: Kevin O’Neill, Muswell Hill Golf panel, a multiple choice test, an essay choice test on various aspects of I did a bit of everything – I worked College, Matt Plested and all at Club (Oaklands College) question and a 5-10 minute presentation greenkeeping, then answering an essay in the ticket office and the club Muswell Hill Golf Club, the award Runners up: Tom Freeman, from each candidate about themselves question. shop. sponsors Toro, everyone at BIGGA, Kingsdown Golf Club (Myerscough prior to interview. The final stage of the competition “I got to know the players and the other finalists (Aaron Bowen, Andy College), Wesley Lenihan, Ealing Golf The discussion panel was chaired by featured the students delivering a short most of the fans because there Foulds, Tom Freeman, Wesley Lenihan Club (Plumpton College). Les Howkins MG, Course Manager at presentation about themselves before weren’t many of them! I only spent and Daire Higgins), Jimmy Kidd, Scott Finalists: Aaron Bowen, Ipswich Golf The Richmond Golf Club and BIGGA they were interviewed by Sami Strutt, a year there but it helped me with Fenwick, Pete Pattenden and all the Club Purdis Heath (Easton Otley College), Vice Chairman. The candidates were BIGGA Head of Member Development, all sorts of different skills. You greenkeeping team at Gleneagles Andy Foulds, Wimbledon Park Golf Club asked their views on hot topics in the golf course consultant Bruce Jamieson, can’t really get more of a contrast during his time there and Paul Geary (Merrist Wood College), Daire Higgins, industry including the public perception BIGGA Chairman Chris Sealey and David - working at Gleneagles then at Charlton Athletic FC. He would also St Andrews Links (SRUC Elmwood of greenkeeping, data collection, heights Cole, Lely Turf Division Senior Manager. Barnet – but again it broadened like to thank all his family and friends College). of cut, the use of organic products in turf This panel then came to the final my experience.” for their support. management and education. decision.

28 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 GI 29 25 YEARS 25 Years of Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year

Before the 2014 final, a special attendees explaining how the proud to be associated with such a event was held at Aldwark competition began and how it worthwhile scheme that recognises Manor Hotel, adjacent to has evolved before Euan Grant, young and rising talent in the BIGGA House, to mark a 1994 winner and now Course greenkeeping industry. We thought quarter of a century of the Manager at Turnberry, outlined it fitting to mark the awards’ competition. how much his win has helped his 25th anniversary with a special This unique evening attracted career and that of many others celebration – bringing together almost every winner in the in the industry. The speeches winners, judges and others, past competition’s history along with were concluded by BIGGA CEO and present – and I’m delighted the key figures through the decades. Jim Croxton, who thanked Toro occasion was such an outstanding All the winners who attended were for their hugely generous quarter success.” presented with a special watch as a century of sponsorship, and Barry Thanks to all the winners who memento. Beckett, Toro’s Senior Marketing travelled from far and wide to Lely’s UK Managing Director Manager. attend and everyone else who Graham Dale addressed the Barry added: “Toro and Lely are contributed to a special occasion.

FROM LEFT: Euan Grant (1994 winner), James Braithwaite (1995), Murray Long (2002), Fintan Brennan (1996), Bridie Redican (now Collins, 1993), Brian Story (1991), Keith Scruton (2003), Matt Perks (2011), Thomas Flavelle (2012), Luke Turner (2013), Avon Bridges (2007), Alex Shore (2004), Rhys Norville (2009), Mike Emptage (2006), Mathew Wormald (2008), Andrew Stanger (2010), David Norton (1990), Barry Neville (1992), Steven Nixon (1997), Andrew Pledger (2001), Jonathan Cleland (2000).

30 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 GI 31 25 YEARS 25 Years of Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year

Before the 2014 final, a special attendees explaining how the proud to be associated with such a event was held at Aldwark competition began and how it worthwhile scheme that recognises Manor Hotel, adjacent to has evolved before Euan Grant, young and rising talent in the BIGGA House, to mark a 1994 winner and now Course greenkeeping industry. We thought quarter of a century of the Manager at Turnberry, outlined it fitting to mark the awards’ competition. how much his win has helped his 25th anniversary with a special This unique evening attracted career and that of many others celebration – bringing together almost every winner in the in the industry. The speeches winners, judges and others, past competition’s history along with were concluded by BIGGA CEO and present – and I’m delighted the key figures through the decades. Jim Croxton, who thanked Toro occasion was such an outstanding All the winners who attended were for their hugely generous quarter success.” presented with a special watch as a century of sponsorship, and Barry Thanks to all the winners who memento. Beckett, Toro’s Senior Marketing travelled from far and wide to Lely’s UK Managing Director Manager. attend and everyone else who Graham Dale addressed the Barry added: “Toro and Lely are contributed to a special occasion.

FROM LEFT: Euan Grant (1994 winner), James Braithwaite (1995), Murray Long (2002), Fintan Brennan (1996), Bridie Redican (now Collins, 1993), Brian Story (1991), Keith Scruton (2003), Matt Perks (2011), Thomas Flavelle (2012), Luke Turner (2013), Avon Bridges (2007), Alex Shore (2004), Rhys Norville (2009), Mike Emptage (2006), Mathew Wormald (2008), Andrew Stanger (2010), David Norton (1990), Barry Neville (1992), Steven Nixon (1997), Andrew Pledger (2001), Jonathan Cleland (2000).

30 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 GI 31 FLEXIBLE WORKING

Flexible Working 30 June cate their decision within five work- 4. The Club considers the change 2014 onwards ing days. You will have the right to will have a detrimental impact on about the author This new legislation allows all appeal their decision, again, within quality. employees with the minimum five working days. 5. There is insufficient work service requirement (26 weeks) to You don’t need to have a meeting during the periods the employee request flexible working. if they are going to approve your proposes to work. Among employees (in all private request. The timings to use are not 6. The Club considers the change A flexible friend? sector businesses), flexi-time (30%), set down in law, but all requests would have a detrimental effect on working from home on a regular must be dealt with within three the Club’s ability to meet member basis (25%) and mobile working months. But if your club is taking demand. Recent changes to flexible working regulations could affect greenkeepers. (22%) are the most commonly used this long, then we recommend rais- 7. Detrimental impact on perfor- Here Carolyne Wahlen, a specialist in employment law with a particular flexible working practices. ing a formal written grievance with mance. About the author Due to the nature of the industry, them about their delaying tactics. 8. Planned structural changes, Carolyne Wahlen has been focus on golf clubs, explains what the changes mean The minimum amount of infor- for example, where the Club keeping organisations tribunal most greenkeepers are already free since 2003. “It is a legal working flexi-time – they work mation that you must include in intends to reorganise or change the minefield out there! Working longer hours in the summer, and your request is: business and considers the flexible with small organisations I The greenkeeping large increase in requests from this - Annualised hours (only offered realised that they needed The date of your application, the working changes may not fit with someone to call when things departments of private department in golf clubs over the by 3% of private sector organisa- much shorter ones in the winter. change to working conditions you these plans. went pear-shaped. I wanted member golf clubs were not next year. tions): The employee has to work a 91% of all micro businesses to help Clubs ‘do the right (which is what most private are seeking and when you would thing’, within the law.” She is hugely affected by the original An added twist is that the formal certain number of hours over the the author of “Keeping you out like the change to come into effect. Conclusion flexible working legislation process of requesting flexible work- year but they have some flexibility member golf clubs are) reported of the rough”. In addition she no problems with complying with What effect, if any, you think the All greenkeepers, with the delivered the HR component of introduced in 2003. However, ing has been removed. about when they work. There are the Golf England Level 1 Golf requested change would have on minimum service length (26 weeks) Club Managers Qualification with the new legislation Now all clubs need to do is to sometimes ‘core hours’ which the the existing legislation and 85% are actively offering flexible working the Club and how, in your opinion, now have the right to request flex- course at Warwick University. effective from 30 June 2014, act in a ‘reasonable’ way, which is employee regularly works each She speaks about employment any such effect might be dealt with. ible working. You should remember law for the GCMA at their all employees will be able to a very grey area when it comes to week, and they work the rest of options to their staff. A statement that this is a statu- however that it is a right to request, regional meetings. request flexible working or, interpretation. their hours flexibly or when there’s Carolyne and her team can New Process tory request and if and when you not a right to have. Your club must be contacted on 01491 693 388 as it is commonly referred to, extra demand at work. Email: [email protected] have made a previous application deal with your request in a reason- wanting to work part-time. What form can flexible - Staggered hours: The individual There is no set process since the www.GolfHR.co.uk end of June. However all Clubs for flexible working. able manner. They have to give you Greenkeepers are often the working take? has different start, finish and break should have a documented process If the Club is going to reject a reason for a refusal. If the reason longest serving employees in golf - Job sharing: Two people do one times from their colleagues. for requesting flexible working. your request, they have to give is unclear or too general (i.e. “we just clubs, so meet the qualifying crite- job and split the hours. - Phased retirement: Default We recommend taking the ACAS you a reason. They can ‘reinvent don’t want to”) then you can appeal ria to apply. - Part–time: Working less than retirement age has been phased out disciplinary guidelines timeframes the wheel’ or they can continue to and raise a formal grievance before They also have a manual labour full-time hours (usually by working and older workers can choose when as the framework. use the reasons that were allowed taking more serious legal steps. role, which can be more onerous for fewer days). they want to retire. This means they So when you submit a written under the old system: However, as small organisations them the longer they are in the job. - Compressed hours: Working can reduce their hours and work request to your line manager, you 1. The burden of any additional have been very proactive in deal- Further An additional burden is the require- full-time hours but over fewer days. part-time. should get a response within five costs is unacceptable to the Club. ing with flexible working requests information: ment to work weekends. - Flexi-time: The employee - Working from home: It might working days and they should 2. Inability to recruit additional (in order to compete with bigger So given the manual nature chooses when to start and end work be possible to do some or all of the www.ACAS.org.uk have arranged a meeting within ten staff. organisations), we don’t foresee any www.adviceguide.org.uk of their role, long serving status, (within agreed limits) but works work from home or anywhere else www.gov.uk/flexible-working/ working days. After the meeting, 3. An inability to reorganise work major problems arising from this and the possibility of requesting certain ‘core hours’, e.g. 10am to other than the normal place of overview they should make and communi- among existing staff. change. www.cipd.co.uk/hr-resources/ part-time working, we predict a 4pm every day. work. factsheets/flexible-working.aspx

32 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 GI 33 FLEXIBLE WORKING

Flexible Working 30 June cate their decision within five work- 4. The Club considers the change 2014 onwards ing days. You will have the right to will have a detrimental impact on about the author This new legislation allows all appeal their decision, again, within quality. employees with the minimum five working days. 5. There is insufficient work service requirement (26 weeks) to You don’t need to have a meeting during the periods the employee request flexible working. if they are going to approve your proposes to work. Among employees (in all private request. The timings to use are not 6. The Club considers the change A flexible friend? sector businesses), flexi-time (30%), set down in law, but all requests would have a detrimental effect on working from home on a regular must be dealt with within three the Club’s ability to meet member basis (25%) and mobile working months. But if your club is taking demand. Recent changes to flexible working regulations could affect greenkeepers. (22%) are the most commonly used this long, then we recommend rais- 7. Detrimental impact on perfor- Here Carolyne Wahlen, a specialist in employment law with a particular flexible working practices. ing a formal written grievance with mance. About the author Due to the nature of the industry, them about their delaying tactics. 8. Planned structural changes, Carolyne Wahlen has been focus on golf clubs, explains what the changes mean The minimum amount of infor- for example, where the Club keeping organisations tribunal most greenkeepers are already free since 2003. “It is a legal working flexi-time – they work mation that you must include in intends to reorganise or change the minefield out there! Working longer hours in the summer, and your request is: business and considers the flexible with small organisations I The greenkeeping large increase in requests from this - Annualised hours (only offered realised that they needed The date of your application, the working changes may not fit with someone to call when things departments of private department in golf clubs over the by 3% of private sector organisa- much shorter ones in the winter. change to working conditions you these plans. went pear-shaped. I wanted member golf clubs were not next year. tions): The employee has to work a 91% of all micro businesses to help Clubs ‘do the right (which is what most private are seeking and when you would thing’, within the law.” She is hugely affected by the original An added twist is that the formal certain number of hours over the the author of “Keeping you out like the change to come into effect. Conclusion flexible working legislation process of requesting flexible work- year but they have some flexibility member golf clubs are) reported of the rough”. In addition she no problems with complying with What effect, if any, you think the All greenkeepers, with the delivered the HR component of introduced in 2003. However, ing has been removed. about when they work. There are the Golf England Level 1 Golf requested change would have on minimum service length (26 weeks) Club Managers Qualification with the new legislation Now all clubs need to do is to sometimes ‘core hours’ which the the existing legislation and 85% are actively offering flexible working the Club and how, in your opinion, now have the right to request flex- course at Warwick University. effective from 30 June 2014, act in a ‘reasonable’ way, which is employee regularly works each She speaks about employment any such effect might be dealt with. ible working. You should remember law for the GCMA at their all employees will be able to a very grey area when it comes to week, and they work the rest of options to their staff. A statement that this is a statu- however that it is a right to request, regional meetings. request flexible working or, interpretation. their hours flexibly or when there’s Carolyne and her team can New Process tory request and if and when you not a right to have. Your club must be contacted on 01491 693 388 as it is commonly referred to, extra demand at work. Email: [email protected] have made a previous application deal with your request in a reason- wanting to work part-time. What form can flexible - Staggered hours: The individual There is no set process since the www.GolfHR.co.uk end of June. However all Clubs for flexible working. able manner. They have to give you Greenkeepers are often the working take? has different start, finish and break should have a documented process If the Club is going to reject a reason for a refusal. If the reason longest serving employees in golf - Job sharing: Two people do one times from their colleagues. for requesting flexible working. your request, they have to give is unclear or too general (i.e. “we just clubs, so meet the qualifying crite- job and split the hours. - Phased retirement: Default We recommend taking the ACAS you a reason. They can ‘reinvent don’t want to”) then you can appeal ria to apply. - Part–time: Working less than retirement age has been phased out disciplinary guidelines timeframes the wheel’ or they can continue to and raise a formal grievance before They also have a manual labour full-time hours (usually by working and older workers can choose when as the framework. use the reasons that were allowed taking more serious legal steps. role, which can be more onerous for fewer days). they want to retire. This means they So when you submit a written under the old system: However, as small organisations them the longer they are in the job. - Compressed hours: Working can reduce their hours and work request to your line manager, you 1. The burden of any additional have been very proactive in deal- Further An additional burden is the require- full-time hours but over fewer days. part-time. should get a response within five costs is unacceptable to the Club. ing with flexible working requests information: ment to work weekends. - Flexi-time: The employee - Working from home: It might working days and they should 2. Inability to recruit additional (in order to compete with bigger So given the manual nature chooses when to start and end work be possible to do some or all of the www.ACAS.org.uk have arranged a meeting within ten staff. organisations), we don’t foresee any www.adviceguide.org.uk of their role, long serving status, (within agreed limits) but works work from home or anywhere else www.gov.uk/flexible-working/ working days. After the meeting, 3. An inability to reorganise work major problems arising from this and the possibility of requesting certain ‘core hours’, e.g. 10am to other than the normal place of overview they should make and communi- among existing staff. change. www.cipd.co.uk/hr-resources/ part-time working, we predict a 4pm every day. work. factsheets/flexible-working.aspx

32 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 GI 33 BIGGA Photographic Competition 2014 Winning Shot: 4th green 5th Par 3 Blumisberg Golf & Country Club by Tim Sethi Leaves at Strathmore by Scott Robertson of the Championship course at Trevose by Jon Wood

Carnoustie by Craig Boath Rosslare Burrow Course 8th hole by David Colley

Wood you believe it?

This stormy shot of waves “Photography has always Burnham & Berrow by Noel Smith The Carrick on Loch Lomond by Jim Brown crashing behind the 4th green been one of my hobbies and I at Trevose Golf Club is the think I’ll hang the picture in the photo BIGGA members have maintenance facility, although chosen to win the BIGGA I reckon I’ll probably get a bit of Photographic Competition stick for it from the lads!” 2014. Thank you to all members for It was taken by Trevose’s voting – we had over 400 votes! Course Manager Jon Wood during Runners up were James Bledge last winter’s storms – and he wins from Royal Cinque Ports Golf an iPad plus a framed version of Club and Graeme Roberts from his shot. Tandridge Golf Club. He said: “They must be the Congratulations to the final 12 stormiest seas I’d ever seen down whose photographs are shown here and thought it would make a over these two pages. great shot. I perched myself on top Many thanks to all who entered of a dune and snapped away. and good luck next year. Ipswich Golf Club by Joe Simpson

2nd place: Crans Sur Sierre Switzerland by James Bledge West Sussex Golf Club Lingdale Golf Club by Joseph Dormer by Mitchell Jordan

3rd: Hankley Common by Graeme Roberts

34 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 GI 35 BIGGA Photographic Competition 2014 Winning Shot: 4th green 5th Par 3 Blumisberg Golf & Country Club by Tim Sethi Leaves at Strathmore by Scott Robertson of the Championship course at Trevose by Jon Wood

Carnoustie by Craig Boath Rosslare Burrow Course 8th hole by David Colley

Wood you believe it?

This stormy shot of waves “Photography has always Burnham & Berrow by Noel Smith The Carrick on Loch Lomond by Jim Brown crashing behind the 4th green been one of my hobbies and I at Trevose Golf Club is the think I’ll hang the picture in the photo BIGGA members have maintenance facility, although chosen to win the BIGGA I reckon I’ll probably get a bit of Photographic Competition stick for it from the lads!” 2014. Thank you to all members for It was taken by Trevose’s voting – we had over 400 votes! Course Manager Jon Wood during Runners up were James Bledge last winter’s storms – and he wins from Royal Cinque Ports Golf an iPad plus a framed version of Club and Graeme Roberts from his shot. Tandridge Golf Club. He said: “They must be the Congratulations to the final 12 stormiest seas I’d ever seen down whose photographs are shown here and thought it would make a over these two pages. great shot. I perched myself on top Many thanks to all who entered of a dune and snapped away. and good luck next year. Ipswich Golf Club by Joe Simpson

2nd place: Crans Sur Sierre Switzerland by James Bledge West Sussex Golf Club Lingdale Golf Club by Joseph Dormer by Mitchell Jordan

3rd: Hankley Common by Graeme Roberts

34 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 GI 35 FEATURE SUPPORT TEAM DIARY

A day in the life

BIGGA’s Northern Regional Administrator Sandra Raper joined the Support Team at Rockliffe Hall for the European Senior Tour’s English Senior Open and got behind the scenes with the greenkeepers during the prestigious event. Here’s her diary of the first day

4.30am fun was just starting. The various take in the wonders of Woosnam, Head Greenkeeper Pete Newton requests received throughout the Torrance or Lane it was nearly and Greenkeeper John Wyer arrive day included: 4pm and the Support Team are on site to get the machines ready - Spectators walking in the returning. for the team. wrong entrance and not paying – Davy called the stewards to clarify 3.30pm 5.00am arrangements Dave Jowett arrived with Mrs The Rockliffe team of 18 plus 12 - The toilets weren’t working – Jowett’s fantastic flapjacks - thank volunteers arrived on site. Davy to the rescue! you Mrs Jowett! Each team had a ‘captain’, and - No bin at the chicken wagon the captains allocate work on stand, so Pete collected, emptied 4.00pm greens, bunker prep, fairways, and got hold of a bin. This included The team arrived back at the tees, collars approaches and a brief chat about the marketing sheds, then began carrying out swales. strategy of the chicken stand by divoting, pitchmark repairs, Greens were double cut with requesting they wear chicken suits blowing the driving range, tidying eight Flex 21 Toro mowers at to attract customers (Pete really bunkers, emptying the bins and 2.5mm (bench height), producing a needs to work on his chat up lines!) marking the pins for the following stimp reading of 11 feet. - An abandoned buggy blocked day. Bunkers were all raked and Davy, Pete and the guys at 8.00am a road so Pete travelled across the They were also required to clear Rockliffe would like to thank stones were removed. all the volunteer support team Everyone returning to the sheds site to move it the tented village area, check car Extra works included clearing including those from various was either allocated to assist - An exit sign was missing, so parks were tidy and hand industries such as reps, football the pond area of bird excrement and rugby industries, even a fly another team or started the wash Pete printed one, laminated it and watered dry patches on fourteen of and feathers and blowing fisherman. down of machinery. delivered it the greens identified by Pete and pathways of grass clippings. - Various parking issues; Davy Davy. Fairways were cut with four Toro 8.30am checked drives and moved parking Pete then programmed the 5410 mowers at 12mm. All machines were lined back cones, dealt with notices for one irrigation system for a short water Tees, collars and approaches up in the sheds ready for the next illegally parked car in a cul-de-sac on these greens at 11pm. were cut with four Toro 1600s, Par 6.00am were cleaned down, shelters day. Breakfast was served in the - A player retired, then collapsed 3 approaches were cut with a Toro Pete and Davy Cuthbertson, brushed and cleaned, clippings canteen. in reception so Davy was contacted 7.00pm 3420, all at 8mm. who is Golf Course and Estate blown or hand removed, sand to call in medical assistance and to Go home (or to the temporary John dealt with hole changing Manager, began a final check of the splash or footprints from bunkers 9.00am assess the situation camp site behind the sheds) for a with not a minute to spare, while course dealing with every element cleared. Everything was ‘dressed Course cleared of greenkeepers. These requests seem endless well-earned Friday beer - but just Pete cut and prepared the driving of presentation. to impress’, detail was the key and Now the greenkeeper diary could throughout the day and before the one because it all started again range tee. Signs, bins and ball washers their eyes are keen. end here but for Pete and Davy the anyone had really had time to next morning at 4.30am!

36 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 GI 37 FEATURE SUPPORT TEAM DIARY

A day in the life

BIGGA’s Northern Regional Administrator Sandra Raper joined the Support Team at Rockliffe Hall for the European Senior Tour’s English Senior Open and got behind the scenes with the greenkeepers during the prestigious event. Here’s her diary of the first day

4.30am fun was just starting. The various take in the wonders of Woosnam, Head Greenkeeper Pete Newton requests received throughout the Torrance or Lane it was nearly and Greenkeeper John Wyer arrive day included: 4pm and the Support Team are on site to get the machines ready - Spectators walking in the returning. for the team. wrong entrance and not paying – Davy called the stewards to clarify 3.30pm 5.00am arrangements Dave Jowett arrived with Mrs The Rockliffe team of 18 plus 12 - The toilets weren’t working – Jowett’s fantastic flapjacks - thank volunteers arrived on site. Davy to the rescue! you Mrs Jowett! Each team had a ‘captain’, and - No bin at the chicken wagon the captains allocate work on stand, so Pete collected, emptied 4.00pm greens, bunker prep, fairways, and got hold of a bin. This included The team arrived back at the tees, collars approaches and a brief chat about the marketing sheds, then began carrying out swales. strategy of the chicken stand by divoting, pitchmark repairs, Greens were double cut with requesting they wear chicken suits blowing the driving range, tidying eight Flex 21 Toro mowers at to attract customers (Pete really bunkers, emptying the bins and 2.5mm (bench height), producing a needs to work on his chat up lines!) marking the pins for the following stimp reading of 11 feet. - An abandoned buggy blocked day. Bunkers were all raked and Davy, Pete and the guys at 8.00am a road so Pete travelled across the They were also required to clear Rockliffe would like to thank stones were removed. all the volunteer support team Everyone returning to the sheds site to move it the tented village area, check car Extra works included clearing including those from various was either allocated to assist - An exit sign was missing, so parks were tidy and hand industries such as reps, football the pond area of bird excrement and rugby industries, even a fly another team or started the wash Pete printed one, laminated it and watered dry patches on fourteen of and feathers and blowing fisherman. down of machinery. delivered it the greens identified by Pete and pathways of grass clippings. - Various parking issues; Davy Davy. Fairways were cut with four Toro 8.30am checked drives and moved parking Pete then programmed the 5410 mowers at 12mm. All machines were lined back cones, dealt with notices for one irrigation system for a short water Tees, collars and approaches up in the sheds ready for the next illegally parked car in a cul-de-sac on these greens at 11pm. were cut with four Toro 1600s, Par 6.00am were cleaned down, shelters day. Breakfast was served in the - A player retired, then collapsed 3 approaches were cut with a Toro Pete and Davy Cuthbertson, brushed and cleaned, clippings canteen. in reception so Davy was contacted 7.00pm 3420, all at 8mm. who is Golf Course and Estate blown or hand removed, sand to call in medical assistance and to Go home (or to the temporary John dealt with hole changing Manager, began a final check of the splash or footprints from bunkers 9.00am assess the situation camp site behind the sheds) for a with not a minute to spare, while course dealing with every element cleared. Everything was ‘dressed Course cleared of greenkeepers. These requests seem endless well-earned Friday beer - but just Pete cut and prepared the driving of presentation. to impress’, detail was the key and Now the greenkeeper diary could throughout the day and before the one because it all started again range tee. Signs, bins and ball washers their eyes are keen. end here but for Pete and Davy the anyone had really had time to next morning at 4.30am!

36 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 GI 37 FEATURE GRASS ID (PART 2)

commonly find that the majority grow and allow reproduction, and of plants in natural situations form thereby avoid critical damage and mutually beneficial partnerships maintain the ability to function with micorrhyzal fungi and poten- as living organisms. (This is the The grass plant: tially other microorganisms. We’re unique characteristic of grasses often not too aware of the roots that we exploit in turf manage- (out of sight out of mind maybe?) ment). Grasses do it by having a and often give our attention to the highly compressed stem, different above-ground portion, the shoot, in appearance but identical in the sum of its parts which is far more visible. In my anatomy to that of other higher opinion this is an oversight, as I am plants. I hope the pictures that a firm believer that the health of the follow will illustrate this. Dr Paul Miller follows up shoot reflects that of the root. More Picture 2 shows a grass plant of on that later! about 15cm in size – it’s very dif- last month’s piece on grass At this point let’s review the ficult to illustrate this with a grass identification by focusing on functions required for the plant to of 4mm, but the structure is exactly the component parts of the sustain itself as a living organism, the same. At the base of the stem we and match them to the structural see a number of branches emerg- grass plant – and how to care components: ing – in grasses we call them ‘tillers’ for it Water and mineral nutrients are - and because we know that these taken in by the root and distributed grow from lateral buds we have to throughout the plant. As they travel conclude that the buds are at the upwards they enter the shoot. base of the plant. Shoots of higher plants share a And we know that buds are common anatomy, but there are a found at nodes, which is also

multitude of variations and forms where leaves are attached, so we TOP: In a grass plant the tillers (morphologies). would also expect to see the leaves (branches) all arise at the base of the plant, meaning this is The structure is one of a stem, attached onto the stem very close to location of the buds. which has leaves attached onto it, the base of the plant. In other words RIGHT: A ‘standard’ plant the attachment points being called the nodes are very close together, showing the arrangement of nodes (a leaf and bud) arranged ‘nodes’. At every node, in the junc- and the internodes are very short. on the stem. tion of stem and leaf, we always find Just like in the picture of the RIGHT BELOW: Dissection of a lateral bud, or a growing point; at woody plant, the leaves of a grass the plant shows all the tillers the tip of the stem we find another are attached on one side then 180° emerging from the base…

bud, this time the terminal bud. opposite, and if we detach them one … which is where the leaves are Leaves manufacture food by photo- by one and lay them out (picture attached i.e. the nodes are all found at the base of the plant synthesis; food is then distributed 3) we can see that yes, they were (RIGHT BOTTOM) through the plant. attached right at the base of the Buds at the nodes provide plant. And the bit that they were There’s a model in plant under stress and in poor have several things in common, ABOVE: The ‘wee white points for new growth, which can attached to – the stem – is what management theory, health is unable to perform and helping to define them as living, stump’ that is left is the stem – compressed in length to protect produce either more stem material is left. In turf we know this as the ‘Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs’, cope with the demands and rigours and as suggested earlier these the growing points under the (branches) or flowers, both of which ‘crown’; botanically it is the stem used to help explain our of modern golf, and will in all likeli- include the need for energy-rich height of cut. can allow reproduction. There is with all the leaves and tillers motivations in life. hood fail to perform. compounds (food), mineral nutri- no specific structure that obtains (branches) removed. It is presented as a pyramid dia- Like all living organisms a grass ents, water and oxygen, with the oxygen for the plant; it has to dif- In picture 4 you can see this – a gram, with the base representing plant is structured in a way that capacities to grow, to reproduce, fuse into the plant, into all parts, wee white ‘stump’ left behind, but our motivation for our basic biologi- allows its biological needs to be met, to respond to the environment, without the special distribution this wee white stump has the poten- cal needs of food, water and oxygen; with each of its component parts to repair damage, and to manage system which animals possess. tial to re-grow leaves, branches and once these are met we then seek having a specific role, or ‘job’ to do. waste products. So, structurally and physiologi- flowers, and remain living, because shelter and relationships, moving The specific morphology (biological A further characteristic is that cally there is a lot going on in the the important parts are all there. through to ‘higher level’ motivators, form) of the grass plant, co-evolved all organisms form partnerships about the author stem – nodes, leaves, photosynthe- To stress it again, this wee white for example trying to reduce our golf in the company of grazing animals, with other organisms, for example sis, buds, new growth, potentially stump, or stem, or crown, is evolved handicap (Google it if you want to uniquely allows it to be used to the bacteria in our gut that help flowers – surely this can’t all be to remain below the height-of-bite know more!). produce turf. digestion. fitted onto a plant of less than 4mm and so protected from grazing ani- Whilst I’m not suggesting that Let’s face it - there are not many Of course all living organisms in height? Well yes, it can, and that’s mals and cylinder mowers, and it grasses are consciously motivated plants that can survive being cut at will, in time, die. There is huge the genius of grass plant evolution. is this amazing adaptation that we I do believe we can think about 3-4 mm as many as 300 times per variety and evolutionary ingenuity The reason most plants can’t exploit in turf management. what it is we want them to do, and year and still produce the smooth, in how different organisms manage survive being mown at 4mm is two- Having discussed roots and adopt a similar model for thinking uniform and dense surfaces that to meet these needs, but one of fold – firstly we would remove most shoots separately we need to about them. What am I trying to we require for golf. I never cease to the clear distinctions that we all of the green tissue and so prevent acknowledge that they belong to the say? Well, if we want and need our be amazed just how extraordinary know about is between the animal photosynthesis; secondly we would one organism, and work together to grasses to support 30,000 rounds and remarkable grasses are and, and plant kingdoms, two major Paul holds a BSc in Crop cut off all the buds and so prevent allow the organism to function. per annum, performing at the high- dare I say it, how much we take groupings that have come up with Science and PhD in Herbicide any regrowth. In discussing the structure of the est possible level, it is my view that them for granted at times. differing solutions to the problems Mode of Action. After spells with British Seed Houses But as we said earlier, grasses co- plant we’ve inevitably mentioned we had better make sure that their So in this article I’d like to think presented in trying to meet these and Grass Technology evolved alongside grazing animals, some of the processes going on basic biological needs – the same as about the component parts of biological needs. International he joined Elmwood in 1993 as Lecturer which bite off plant material close within the plant, without expand- ours; food, water and oxygen – have the grass plant, how they are put Higher plants (grasses are in this in Greenkeeping. He teaches to the ground, and grasses evolved ing on them; in the next article been met. together, and how they are adapted group) have a structure whereby Plant and Soil Sciences, at all levels, and is interested to keep most of their ‘bodyweight we’ll explore some of these further, A properly functioning and to withstand the close-mowing they are fixed into the soil by the in the soils, grasses, turf quality and design of old golf ’ under the critical height-of-bite thinking mainly about how the healthy grass plant provides the regimes that we impose upon them. roots, and these serve some of courses, how and why these (e.g. 5mm for sheep), including plant captures and uses energy, base of the pyramid upon which So far I’ve mentioned ‘biological the biological needs of the plant continue to give enduring pleasure to golfers, and what leaf material that photosynthesise and how it absorbs water and sustainable turf quality and per- needs’ more than once, but what by obtaining water and mineral we can learn from them. and provide food, and buds that nutrients. formance can be created – a grass exactly are these? Living organisms nutrients, and when we look we

38 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 GI 39 FEATURE GRASS ID (PART 2)

commonly find that the majority grow and allow reproduction, and of plants in natural situations form thereby avoid critical damage and mutually beneficial partnerships maintain the ability to function with micorrhyzal fungi and poten- as living organisms. (This is the The grass plant: tially other microorganisms. We’re unique characteristic of grasses often not too aware of the roots that we exploit in turf manage- (out of sight out of mind maybe?) ment). Grasses do it by having a and often give our attention to the highly compressed stem, different above-ground portion, the shoot, in appearance but identical in the sum of its parts which is far more visible. In my anatomy to that of other higher opinion this is an oversight, as I am plants. I hope the pictures that a firm believer that the health of the follow will illustrate this. Dr Paul Miller follows up shoot reflects that of the root. More Picture 2 shows a grass plant of on that later! about 15cm in size – it’s very dif- last month’s piece on grass At this point let’s review the ficult to illustrate this with a grass identification by focusing on functions required for the plant to of 4mm, but the structure is exactly the component parts of the sustain itself as a living organism, the same. At the base of the stem we and match them to the structural see a number of branches emerg- grass plant – and how to care components: ing – in grasses we call them ‘tillers’ for it Water and mineral nutrients are - and because we know that these taken in by the root and distributed grow from lateral buds we have to throughout the plant. As they travel conclude that the buds are at the upwards they enter the shoot. base of the plant. Shoots of higher plants share a And we know that buds are common anatomy, but there are a found at nodes, which is also

multitude of variations and forms where leaves are attached, so we TOP: In a grass plant the tillers (morphologies). would also expect to see the leaves (branches) all arise at the base of the plant, meaning this is The structure is one of a stem, attached onto the stem very close to location of the buds. which has leaves attached onto it, the base of the plant. In other words RIGHT: A ‘standard’ plant the attachment points being called the nodes are very close together, showing the arrangement of nodes (a leaf and bud) arranged ‘nodes’. At every node, in the junc- and the internodes are very short. on the stem. tion of stem and leaf, we always find Just like in the picture of the RIGHT BELOW: Dissection of a lateral bud, or a growing point; at woody plant, the leaves of a grass the plant shows all the tillers the tip of the stem we find another are attached on one side then 180° emerging from the base…

bud, this time the terminal bud. opposite, and if we detach them one … which is where the leaves are Leaves manufacture food by photo- by one and lay them out (picture attached i.e. the nodes are all found at the base of the plant synthesis; food is then distributed 3) we can see that yes, they were (RIGHT BOTTOM) through the plant. attached right at the base of the Buds at the nodes provide plant. And the bit that they were There’s a model in plant under stress and in poor have several things in common, ABOVE: The ‘wee white points for new growth, which can attached to – the stem – is what management theory, health is unable to perform and helping to define them as living, stump’ that is left is the stem – compressed in length to protect produce either more stem material is left. In turf we know this as the ‘Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs’, cope with the demands and rigours and as suggested earlier these the growing points under the (branches) or flowers, both of which ‘crown’; botanically it is the stem used to help explain our of modern golf, and will in all likeli- include the need for energy-rich height of cut. can allow reproduction. There is with all the leaves and tillers motivations in life. hood fail to perform. compounds (food), mineral nutri- no specific structure that obtains (branches) removed. It is presented as a pyramid dia- Like all living organisms a grass ents, water and oxygen, with the oxygen for the plant; it has to dif- In picture 4 you can see this – a gram, with the base representing plant is structured in a way that capacities to grow, to reproduce, fuse into the plant, into all parts, wee white ‘stump’ left behind, but our motivation for our basic biologi- allows its biological needs to be met, to respond to the environment, without the special distribution this wee white stump has the poten- cal needs of food, water and oxygen; with each of its component parts to repair damage, and to manage system which animals possess. tial to re-grow leaves, branches and once these are met we then seek having a specific role, or ‘job’ to do. waste products. So, structurally and physiologi- flowers, and remain living, because shelter and relationships, moving The specific morphology (biological A further characteristic is that cally there is a lot going on in the the important parts are all there. through to ‘higher level’ motivators, form) of the grass plant, co-evolved all organisms form partnerships about the author stem – nodes, leaves, photosynthe- To stress it again, this wee white for example trying to reduce our golf in the company of grazing animals, with other organisms, for example sis, buds, new growth, potentially stump, or stem, or crown, is evolved handicap (Google it if you want to uniquely allows it to be used to the bacteria in our gut that help flowers – surely this can’t all be to remain below the height-of-bite know more!). produce turf. digestion. fitted onto a plant of less than 4mm and so protected from grazing ani- Whilst I’m not suggesting that Let’s face it - there are not many Of course all living organisms in height? Well yes, it can, and that’s mals and cylinder mowers, and it grasses are consciously motivated plants that can survive being cut at will, in time, die. There is huge the genius of grass plant evolution. is this amazing adaptation that we I do believe we can think about 3-4 mm as many as 300 times per variety and evolutionary ingenuity The reason most plants can’t exploit in turf management. what it is we want them to do, and year and still produce the smooth, in how different organisms manage survive being mown at 4mm is two- Having discussed roots and adopt a similar model for thinking uniform and dense surfaces that to meet these needs, but one of fold – firstly we would remove most shoots separately we need to about them. What am I trying to we require for golf. I never cease to the clear distinctions that we all of the green tissue and so prevent acknowledge that they belong to the say? Well, if we want and need our be amazed just how extraordinary know about is between the animal photosynthesis; secondly we would one organism, and work together to grasses to support 30,000 rounds and remarkable grasses are and, and plant kingdoms, two major Paul holds a BSc in Crop cut off all the buds and so prevent allow the organism to function. per annum, performing at the high- dare I say it, how much we take groupings that have come up with Science and PhD in Herbicide any regrowth. In discussing the structure of the est possible level, it is my view that them for granted at times. differing solutions to the problems Mode of Action. After spells with British Seed Houses But as we said earlier, grasses co- plant we’ve inevitably mentioned we had better make sure that their So in this article I’d like to think presented in trying to meet these and Grass Technology evolved alongside grazing animals, some of the processes going on basic biological needs – the same as about the component parts of biological needs. International he joined Elmwood in 1993 as Lecturer which bite off plant material close within the plant, without expand- ours; food, water and oxygen – have the grass plant, how they are put Higher plants (grasses are in this in Greenkeeping. He teaches to the ground, and grasses evolved ing on them; in the next article been met. together, and how they are adapted group) have a structure whereby Plant and Soil Sciences, at all levels, and is interested to keep most of their ‘bodyweight we’ll explore some of these further, A properly functioning and to withstand the close-mowing they are fixed into the soil by the in the soils, grasses, turf quality and design of old golf ’ under the critical height-of-bite thinking mainly about how the healthy grass plant provides the regimes that we impose upon them. roots, and these serve some of courses, how and why these (e.g. 5mm for sheep), including plant captures and uses energy, base of the pyramid upon which So far I’ve mentioned ‘biological the biological needs of the plant continue to give enduring pleasure to golfers, and what leaf material that photosynthesise and how it absorbs water and sustainable turf quality and per- needs’ more than once, but what by obtaining water and mineral we can learn from them. and provide food, and buds that nutrients. formance can be created – a grass exactly are these? Living organisms nutrients, and when we look we

38 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 GI 39 BASIS POINTS

plants to inhabit dry land on earth. They are thought to have been present for about 407 million years. However, in 2010, some fossils were found in Argentina that indicates the existence of five different types of liverwort spores dating from 470 million years ago. There are estimated to be 9,000 species of liverwort in existence today and these fall into two types; the more familiar ones grow in the form of a fleshy, flattened, leafless body known as a ‘thallus’ and account for about 15% of the total species. The remaining 85% are the leafy liverworts that have flattened stems with two or more ranks of overlap- ping leaves. In the Amenity industry we are less likely to encounter problems with leafy liverworts, so I shall con- centrate my emphasis on the ‘thal- lose’ liverworts that we might see on paths, between slabs or paving blocks, growing in the open ground or invading plant pots in nurseries. Liverworts are classified in the Plant kingdom division March- antiophyta, one of three divisions in the group of lower plant forms known as the Bryophytes. This group also contains the mosses and the hornworts. (The Bryophytes do primarily used to describe the life ABOVE: Male sexual organs the same plant) or dioecious (with (antheridia) silvery-brown not have true vascular tissues for cycles of plants. In the cell, genetic platforms raised on stalks separate male and female plants). transport within the plant) information is carried on chro- This phenomenon is not unusual Liverworts have almost global mosomes and these can either be in higher plants; Common Nettle distribution; occurring in most paired (diploid – referred to as 2n) (Urtica dioica) is a good example of habitat types but more commonly or single (haploid – referred to as n). a dioecious plant. in those with high levels of moisture During the lifecycle of a plant, The life cycle of a liverwort begins or humidity, although a very few the chromosome state alternates with the germination of a haploid species have adapted to the extreme between the single haploid and the spore into a temporary stage called environments of desert and arctic paired diploid state. In higher plants a protonema, which develops into regions. Probably the main reason the majority of the lifecycle is in a a mature gametophore – the body The wonderful world that liverworts are unfamiliar to diploid state with only a brief period that supports the sex organs. The many people is because of their in the haploid (gametophyte) state male organs are known as anther- small size, which can range from where chromosomes are unpaired. idia and in the Marchantia species between 2 and 20mm in width and However, in the liverwort lifecycle I photographed, they are raised on of the Liverwort usually much less than 10cm long. the reverse is true; the majority of stalks. time is spent in the gametophyte The female sexual organs are The Generation Game (haploid) phase. Liverworts are known as archegonia and consist There’s another opportunity for you to claim BASIS points this month therefore said to have a gameto- of a ‘spoked’ archegonial head that as Sherriff Amenity’s Graham Paul focuses on liverworts In order to better understand the phyte dominant life cycle. BELOW LEFT: Alternate is also elevated on a stalk. complexities of these bryophytes, Species of liverwort may be generations diagram courtesy of The male antheridia produce Wikipedia; it may help to look at the concept either monoecious (having male sperm cells that have two flagellae the human body, then it could be citizen of Greek origin, had a life- Liverworts will grow in of alternate generations, a term and female reproductive organs on BELOW RIGHT: Liverwort in to propel them towards the egg cell used to cure sickness in that area. long interest in botany and worked paving containers and on the surface produced in the female archegonia. Liverwort was used to cure liver dis- as a physician attached to the of flower borders and rockeries Part of the journey between the ease, since the shape and texture of Roman army. He practised herbal where they are usually male and female organs may be the thallus resembled human liver pharmacology, collecting medici- associated with compacted assisted by rain splashes, the male tissue. nally useful materials (plants and soil or poor drainage. antheridia in some cases acting like They do not harm plants but they Likewise, Lungwort was used minerals) from all over the Roman a trampoline. can look unsightly and may inhibit for respiratory problems, the Empire, using them to heal wounds Japanese researchers found growth of weak specimens or young leaf shape having provided the and cure sickness. that some liverworts could project seedlings. On paving and other common name for the plant and Dioscorides recorded his exten- sperm up to 15cm into the air in hard surfaces they can spoil the suggested its usefulness as a herbal sive knowledge of herbal remedies rain drops, which allowed them to general appearance and cause a remedy. in a five volume encyclopedia titled fertilise egg cells more than a metre slip hazard in wet weather. This ancient form of medicine ‘De Materia Medica’ – a work that away. The name ‘liverwort’ originates was known as ‘The Doctorine of Sig- became the main reference for After fertilisation occurs, a short- from an ancient belief that if the natures’ and dates back to the rule pharmacology in Europe and the lived diploid stage is reached with shape of a plant or other physical of Roman Emperor Nero. Pedanius Middle East for over 1500 years. ABOVE: Female archegonia of the formation of a sporophyte. As characteristic resembled a part of Dioscorides (40 to 90AD), a Roman Liverworts were one of the first Marchantia spp

40 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 GI 41 BASIS POINTS

plants to inhabit dry land on earth. They are thought to have been present for about 407 million years. However, in 2010, some fossils were found in Argentina that indicates the existence of five different types of liverwort spores dating from 470 million years ago. There are estimated to be 9,000 species of liverwort in existence today and these fall into two types; the more familiar ones grow in the form of a fleshy, flattened, leafless body known as a ‘thallus’ and account for about 15% of the total species. The remaining 85% are the leafy liverworts that have flattened stems with two or more ranks of overlap- ping leaves. In the Amenity industry we are less likely to encounter problems with leafy liverworts, so I shall con- centrate my emphasis on the ‘thal- lose’ liverworts that we might see on paths, between slabs or paving blocks, growing in the open ground or invading plant pots in nurseries. Liverworts are classified in the Plant kingdom division March- antiophyta, one of three divisions in the group of lower plant forms known as the Bryophytes. This group also contains the mosses and the hornworts. (The Bryophytes do primarily used to describe the life ABOVE: Male sexual organs the same plant) or dioecious (with (antheridia) silvery-brown not have true vascular tissues for cycles of plants. In the cell, genetic platforms raised on stalks separate male and female plants). transport within the plant) information is carried on chro- This phenomenon is not unusual Liverworts have almost global mosomes and these can either be in higher plants; Common Nettle distribution; occurring in most paired (diploid – referred to as 2n) (Urtica dioica) is a good example of habitat types but more commonly or single (haploid – referred to as n). a dioecious plant. in those with high levels of moisture During the lifecycle of a plant, The life cycle of a liverwort begins or humidity, although a very few the chromosome state alternates with the germination of a haploid species have adapted to the extreme between the single haploid and the spore into a temporary stage called environments of desert and arctic paired diploid state. In higher plants a protonema, which develops into regions. Probably the main reason the majority of the lifecycle is in a a mature gametophore – the body The wonderful world that liverworts are unfamiliar to diploid state with only a brief period that supports the sex organs. The many people is because of their in the haploid (gametophyte) state male organs are known as anther- small size, which can range from where chromosomes are unpaired. idia and in the Marchantia species between 2 and 20mm in width and However, in the liverwort lifecycle I photographed, they are raised on of the Liverwort usually much less than 10cm long. the reverse is true; the majority of stalks. time is spent in the gametophyte The female sexual organs are The Generation Game (haploid) phase. Liverworts are known as archegonia and consist There’s another opportunity for you to claim BASIS points this month therefore said to have a gameto- of a ‘spoked’ archegonial head that as Sherriff Amenity’s Graham Paul focuses on liverworts In order to better understand the phyte dominant life cycle. BELOW LEFT: Alternate is also elevated on a stalk. complexities of these bryophytes, Species of liverwort may be generations diagram courtesy of The male antheridia produce Wikipedia; it may help to look at the concept either monoecious (having male sperm cells that have two flagellae the human body, then it could be citizen of Greek origin, had a life- Liverworts will grow in of alternate generations, a term and female reproductive organs on BELOW RIGHT: Liverwort in to propel them towards the egg cell used to cure sickness in that area. long interest in botany and worked paving containers and on the surface produced in the female archegonia. Liverwort was used to cure liver dis- as a physician attached to the of flower borders and rockeries Part of the journey between the ease, since the shape and texture of Roman army. He practised herbal where they are usually male and female organs may be the thallus resembled human liver pharmacology, collecting medici- associated with compacted assisted by rain splashes, the male tissue. nally useful materials (plants and soil or poor drainage. antheridia in some cases acting like They do not harm plants but they Likewise, Lungwort was used minerals) from all over the Roman a trampoline. can look unsightly and may inhibit for respiratory problems, the Empire, using them to heal wounds Japanese researchers found growth of weak specimens or young leaf shape having provided the and cure sickness. that some liverworts could project seedlings. On paving and other common name for the plant and Dioscorides recorded his exten- sperm up to 15cm into the air in hard surfaces they can spoil the suggested its usefulness as a herbal sive knowledge of herbal remedies rain drops, which allowed them to general appearance and cause a remedy. in a five volume encyclopedia titled fertilise egg cells more than a metre slip hazard in wet weather. This ancient form of medicine ‘De Materia Medica’ – a work that away. The name ‘liverwort’ originates was known as ‘The Doctorine of Sig- became the main reference for After fertilisation occurs, a short- from an ancient belief that if the natures’ and dates back to the rule pharmacology in Europe and the lived diploid stage is reached with shape of a plant or other physical of Roman Emperor Nero. Pedanius Middle East for over 1500 years. ABOVE: Female archegonia of the formation of a sporophyte. As characteristic resembled a part of Dioscorides (40 to 90AD), a Roman Liverworts were one of the first Marchantia spp

40 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 GI 41 BASIS POINTS

moisture resulting from poor drain- Gemma cups containing small green disc-shaped gemmae age, low light levels, acidic and SELF ASSESSMENT impoverished soils are all likely to encourage the spread of liverworts. Use the questions In nurseries, the use of good below to check your quality compost, thoroughly clean understanding of this containers and routine inspection topic. Readers can and removal of invading liverwort claim BASIS points plants will help to prevent major by visiting the ‘BASIS problems. Where plants are to Points Article’ section “I can now work on my greens even after heavy remain in containers for long on the Sherriff Amenity rain. My greens are far periods, the application of a layer website – www. of grit to the surface will prevent better now and I put sherriff-amenity.com that mainly down to GYP-FLO”! unwanted liverwort growth. and answering the On paths and other hard sur- questions correctly. faces, maintain good drainage and keep light obstructions to a mini- 1) What was the mum by pruning overhanging trees age of the liverwort and shrubs. spores found recently in Argentina reported Chemical controls to be? a) 407 million years GYP-FLO Liverworts have survived on b) 507 million years this planet for well over 400 mil- c) 540 million years lion years so it is understandable d) 470 million years that they are not the easiest weed problem to deal with. 2) Liverworts are However, some products avail- classified in the able today are worthy of note: - division: Hard surface cleaners will a) Bryophyta remove liverworts from paths, b) Anthocerotophyta patios and other porous hard sur- c) Marchantiophyta faces. ‘Safor’, marketed by Amega d) Phaeophyta Science, contains benzalkonium chloride and urea hydrochloride 3) The majority of the and claims to ‘deter’ liverworts. liverwort life cycle There are many other products occurs in which state? containing benzalkonium chloride (more than one answer that make claims along the whole may apply) tion; when displaced from the cups spectrum between good control Point of Play by raindrops, they will germinate, a) diploid and deterrent – depending on the b) haploid Tee Markers upon landing on a suitable sub- co-formulants in each product Drive towards recycling strate, and develop into a new plant c) 2n from £3.95 and the confidence of the manu- d) gametophyte that is genetically identical to the facturer. parent. Products based on fatty acids, 4) Gemmae are Unlike the higher plants, liver- such as ‘Bayer Moss Killer’ (from EaglePlex Bin with optional worts have no stomata for gaseous involved in . . . their garden chemicals range) are a) sperm production ball washer and tee plate exchange and to regulate water in reported to be fairly effective; the the cells, instead they have perma- b) asexual reproduction Bayer product label states that it EaglePlex Marker nently open pores on the surface. c) egg fertilisation Hardwood ‘kills moss, algae and liverworts’. d) the development Another difference is the absence Products containing acetic acid Option of roots for anchoring the plant and of the spore bearing such as ‘New Way Weed Spray ’ capsule supplying water and nutrients. from Headland Amenity are worth Optional logo plate Part of this function is performed trying provided that the surface can 5) Which of the by unicellular rhizoids located on stand up to acidic sprays. Acetic following statements Recycling sections Lift up Lid Female archegonium with ‘bean’ shaped yellow the underside of the gametophyte acid works in a similar fashion Tee Caddy Marker capsule – containing spores is true? (thallus), which serve to anchor the to the old non-translocated total plant to the substrate it grows on. a) Liverwort roots weedkillers such as paraquat (now are located on the the sporophyte matures it develops Although these rhizoids resemble withdrawn), killing surface weed a capsule, which will produce the root hairs of higher plants, they do underneath side of the growth by corrosive action. thallus haploid spores that disperse to ger- not provide water or nutrients to ‘Armillatox’ a hard surface minate and complete the lifecycle. the liverwort. b) Liverworts do not cleaner will remove liverworts and possess stomata has a useful added effect in reduc- Manufactured in the UK Upright Marker Asexual reproduction Control measures c) The name liverwort ing the spores that serve to spread was given to this group the problem and re-infest treated at the Eagle Plant Some species of liverwort pro- The presence of liverworts in of plants because they areas. taste of lambs liver duce small, green disc-shaped ornamental borders is an indica- The difficulty with liverwort con- Hardwood from £225 objects called ‘gemmae’ in shallow tion of poor growing conditions when chewed trol is that they produce copious d) There are estimated cup-like structures located on the allowing these lower plant forms amounts of spores, so unless all of CONTACT EAGLE FOR MORE INFORMATION EaglePlex from £179 upper surface of the thallus. to compete, as is the case with the to be 90,000 species of these are eradicated by an applica- liverwort t + 44 (0)1883 344244 e [email protected] w www.eagle.uk.com (+ Delivery and VAT) Octagonal Marker These tiny gemmae are a means other common bryophyte problem, tion of a product, the problem is of vegetative (asexual) reproduc- moss. Compaction, excessive likely to recur.

42 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 GI 43 BASIS POINTS

moisture resulting from poor drain- Gemma cups containing small green disc-shaped gemmae age, low light levels, acidic and SELF ASSESSMENT impoverished soils are all likely to encourage the spread of liverworts. Use the questions In nurseries, the use of good below to check your quality compost, thoroughly clean understanding of this containers and routine inspection topic. Readers can and removal of invading liverwort claim BASIS points plants will help to prevent major by visiting the ‘BASIS problems. Where plants are to Points Article’ section “I can now work on my greens even after heavy remain in containers for long on the Sherriff Amenity rain. My greens are far periods, the application of a layer website – www. of grit to the surface will prevent better now and I put sherriff-amenity.com that mainly down to GYP-FLO”! unwanted liverwort growth. and answering the On paths and other hard sur- questions correctly. faces, maintain good drainage and keep light obstructions to a mini- 1) What was the mum by pruning overhanging trees age of the liverwort and shrubs. spores found recently in Argentina reported Chemical controls to be? a) 407 million years GYP-FLO Liverworts have survived on b) 507 million years this planet for well over 400 mil- c) 540 million years lion years so it is understandable d) 470 million years that they are not the easiest weed problem to deal with. 2) Liverworts are However, some products avail- classified in the able today are worthy of note: - division: Hard surface cleaners will a) Bryophyta remove liverworts from paths, b) Anthocerotophyta patios and other porous hard sur- c) Marchantiophyta faces. ‘Safor’, marketed by Amega d) Phaeophyta Science, contains benzalkonium chloride and urea hydrochloride 3) The majority of the and claims to ‘deter’ liverworts. liverwort life cycle There are many other products occurs in which state? containing benzalkonium chloride (more than one answer that make claims along the whole may apply) tion; when displaced from the cups spectrum between good control Point of Play by raindrops, they will germinate, a) diploid and deterrent – depending on the b) haploid Tee Markers upon landing on a suitable sub- co-formulants in each product Drive towards recycling strate, and develop into a new plant c) 2n from £3.95 and the confidence of the manu- d) gametophyte that is genetically identical to the facturer. parent. Products based on fatty acids, 4) Gemmae are Unlike the higher plants, liver- such as ‘Bayer Moss Killer’ (from EaglePlex Bin with optional worts have no stomata for gaseous involved in . . . their garden chemicals range) are a) sperm production ball washer and tee plate exchange and to regulate water in reported to be fairly effective; the the cells, instead they have perma- b) asexual reproduction Bayer product label states that it EaglePlex Marker nently open pores on the surface. c) egg fertilisation Hardwood ‘kills moss, algae and liverworts’. d) the development Another difference is the absence Products containing acetic acid Option of roots for anchoring the plant and of the spore bearing such as ‘New Way Weed Spray ’ capsule supplying water and nutrients. from Headland Amenity are worth Optional logo plate Part of this function is performed trying provided that the surface can 5) Which of the by unicellular rhizoids located on stand up to acidic sprays. Acetic following statements Recycling sections Lift up Lid Female archegonium with ‘bean’ shaped yellow the underside of the gametophyte acid works in a similar fashion Tee Caddy Marker capsule – containing spores is true? (thallus), which serve to anchor the to the old non-translocated total plant to the substrate it grows on. a) Liverwort roots weedkillers such as paraquat (now are located on the the sporophyte matures it develops Although these rhizoids resemble withdrawn), killing surface weed a capsule, which will produce the root hairs of higher plants, they do underneath side of the growth by corrosive action. thallus haploid spores that disperse to ger- not provide water or nutrients to ‘Armillatox’ a hard surface minate and complete the lifecycle. the liverwort. b) Liverworts do not cleaner will remove liverworts and possess stomata has a useful added effect in reduc- Manufactured in the UK Upright Marker Asexual reproduction Control measures c) The name liverwort ing the spores that serve to spread was given to this group the problem and re-infest treated at the Eagle Plant Some species of liverwort pro- The presence of liverworts in of plants because they areas. taste of lambs liver duce small, green disc-shaped ornamental borders is an indica- The difficulty with liverwort con- Hardwood from £225 objects called ‘gemmae’ in shallow tion of poor growing conditions when chewed trol is that they produce copious d) There are estimated cup-like structures located on the allowing these lower plant forms amounts of spores, so unless all of CONTACT EAGLE FOR MORE INFORMATION EaglePlex from £179 upper surface of the thallus. to compete, as is the case with the to be 90,000 species of these are eradicated by an applica- liverwort t + 44 (0)1883 344244 e [email protected] w www.eagle.uk.com (+ Delivery and VAT) Octagonal Marker These tiny gemmae are a means other common bryophyte problem, tion of a product, the problem is of vegetative (asexual) reproduc- moss. Compaction, excessive likely to recur.

42 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 GI 43 WEED PROBLEMS

1 2

3 4

Feeding weeds

5 6 As autumn arrives, Dr Terry Mabbett gets to the root of in the fall weed problems in sportsturf

Turf grasses and broadleaved dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) Summer root shrinkage ABOVE: Autumn comes to an and yarrow (Achillea millifolium), end. Turf should already be ‘fed weeds as green plants respond Syngenta scientists say high soil and fortified’ with a high potassium to the same inputs of water are even more frequent in the temperatures and drought condi- fertilizer plus iron regime. and nutrients but not always wider environment, and late tion cause the fibrous root systems RIGHT PAGE TOP TO BOTTOM / in the same way. summer is the very time when weed turf grasses to ‘shrink’ during the LEFT TO RIGHT: Turf is continually under threat seed banks are full and seed loads summer months with at least a 1. Dandelion with the strongest tap of invasion by broadleaved weeds, peak. 30% reduction in root mass (Green- root deep in turf can withstand the most severe summer droughts to via airborne seeds from above, and Truly dedicated turf weeds are keeper International, August bounce back in autumn few and far between and slender 2. The plantain’s ‘quasi-tap root’ is from below by seeds contained 2014). This is accompanied by a still enough to give the plant a clear in the casts of soil surface active speedwell is one of the few that considerable slowdown (if not ces- ‘weed edge’ over grass 3. Green oases across parched 7 8 earthworms – and even stem pieces springs to mind. sation) in stem and leaf growth and summer swards are actually of slender speedwell (Veronica At the same time surface casting not only in response to reduced soil patches of the white clover which is self-sufficient in nitrate and a filiformis) transferred from one by earthworms reactivated by late moisture and the capacity of roots classical drought tolerant weed site to another on grass cutting summer and early autumn rain, to access and capture reduced soil 4. There’s no doubting the drought tolerance credentials of yarrow with machinery and with the capacity with accompanying morning dew, water supplies. its fern-like leaves covered with a to root. increase the weed seed threat from The root hairs are clearly most at thick waxy cuticle. 5. Into autumn with falling leaves Weed growth in response to below ground. risk and therefore the plant’s capac- and lush sward growth, but closer inspection reveals a high warming soils and longer days in Threadbare turf caused by ity to take up water through these proportion of the new leaf growth spring may appear to be the main summer drought and increased thin-walled, unprotected and highly is yarrow. 6. Weeds like creeping cinquefoil danger period for turf, but late seasonal footfall provides more vulnerable organs. Root hairs also shown here continue to flower summer and into autumn is almost sites and niches for weed seed ger- play a vital role in plant anchorage, through summer drought and continue to add to the ‘weed seed certainly a better springboard for mination and establishment, but the millions of individual micro- bank’. weed invasion and growth. the competitive advantage of broad- scopic organs each clinging on to a 7. Dove’s foot cranesbill with its dainty pink flowers holds its own in The majority of turf invading leaved weeds over turf grasses is soil mineral particle and collectively drying turf 8. Broadleaf weeds like self-heal weeds, including damaging and the single most important factor in providing a strong and important shown here will always have a difficult to control species like the former’s autumn success. anchorage for grass plants. head-start in autumn following the first rain and follow up fertilizer

44 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 GI 45 WEED PROBLEMS

1 2

3 4

Feeding weeds

5 6 As autumn arrives, Dr Terry Mabbett gets to the root of in the fall weed problems in sportsturf

Turf grasses and broadleaved dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) Summer root shrinkage ABOVE: Autumn comes to an and yarrow (Achillea millifolium), end. Turf should already be ‘fed weeds as green plants respond Syngenta scientists say high soil and fortified’ with a high potassium to the same inputs of water are even more frequent in the temperatures and drought condi- fertilizer plus iron regime. and nutrients but not always wider environment, and late tion cause the fibrous root systems RIGHT PAGE TOP TO BOTTOM / in the same way. summer is the very time when weed turf grasses to ‘shrink’ during the LEFT TO RIGHT: Turf is continually under threat seed banks are full and seed loads summer months with at least a 1. Dandelion with the strongest tap of invasion by broadleaved weeds, peak. 30% reduction in root mass (Green- root deep in turf can withstand the most severe summer droughts to via airborne seeds from above, and Truly dedicated turf weeds are keeper International, August bounce back in autumn few and far between and slender 2. The plantain’s ‘quasi-tap root’ is from below by seeds contained 2014). This is accompanied by a still enough to give the plant a clear in the casts of soil surface active speedwell is one of the few that considerable slowdown (if not ces- ‘weed edge’ over grass 3. Green oases across parched 7 8 earthworms – and even stem pieces springs to mind. sation) in stem and leaf growth and summer swards are actually of slender speedwell (Veronica At the same time surface casting not only in response to reduced soil patches of the white clover which is self-sufficient in nitrate and a filiformis) transferred from one by earthworms reactivated by late moisture and the capacity of roots classical drought tolerant weed site to another on grass cutting summer and early autumn rain, to access and capture reduced soil 4. There’s no doubting the drought tolerance credentials of yarrow with machinery and with the capacity with accompanying morning dew, water supplies. its fern-like leaves covered with a to root. increase the weed seed threat from The root hairs are clearly most at thick waxy cuticle. 5. Into autumn with falling leaves Weed growth in response to below ground. risk and therefore the plant’s capac- and lush sward growth, but closer inspection reveals a high warming soils and longer days in Threadbare turf caused by ity to take up water through these proportion of the new leaf growth spring may appear to be the main summer drought and increased thin-walled, unprotected and highly is yarrow. 6. Weeds like creeping cinquefoil danger period for turf, but late seasonal footfall provides more vulnerable organs. Root hairs also shown here continue to flower summer and into autumn is almost sites and niches for weed seed ger- play a vital role in plant anchorage, through summer drought and continue to add to the ‘weed seed certainly a better springboard for mination and establishment, but the millions of individual micro- bank’. weed invasion and growth. the competitive advantage of broad- scopic organs each clinging on to a 7. Dove’s foot cranesbill with its dainty pink flowers holds its own in The majority of turf invading leaved weeds over turf grasses is soil mineral particle and collectively drying turf 8. Broadleaf weeds like self-heal weeds, including damaging and the single most important factor in providing a strong and important shown here will always have a difficult to control species like the former’s autumn success. anchorage for grass plants. head-start in autumn following the first rain and follow up fertilizer

44 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 GI 45 FEATURE WEED PROBLEMS

reptans) come into this category. Greenkeepers can’t control when Their creeping stems, rooting at the rain arrives and how much falls, intervals on self-heal and creeping but they do have complete control cinquefoil, are clearly a bulwark over when, what and how much against heat and drought and allow fertiliser is applied. these weeds to survive and flower Autumn is the time when turf on parched turf throughout the managers appear to be between summer. a rock and a hard place. The requirement is for enough fertiliser Head start for autumn weeds promptly applied to kickstart So what does all this mean for growth but not too much, and autumn turf? When the early especially of the ‘wrong’ kind of autumn rains arrive well estab- nutrient, to ensure that grass lished broadleaf weeds with root growth is strong and sufficiently systems still largely intact will resilient to withstand disease and clearly have a head start over turf low temperature winter conditions. grasses. Turf grasses must regain Conventional wisdom says go a substantial portion of their root easy on the nitrogen and boost system and mass, which retreated potassium ‘the gatekeeper nutri- and disappeared during the ent’, while harnessing advantages summer drought, before they can offered at this time by calcium take advantage of good growth ‘the cell wall builder and tissue conditions. strengthener’, and iron the nutrient The same water using advantage which furnishes ‘low growth grass that broadleaf weeds have over turf greening up’. grasses, at this time, also applies to Potassium helps to alleviate the accessing and absorption of nutri- risk of nitrogen-induced soft grass ents, with early autumn fertiliser growth by improving the efficiency applications feeding weeds rather of nitrogen utilization by the plant. than turf grass at least in the short Phosphateis the least discussed term. nutrient during this autumn The reality is often seen early in period but if grass root mass needs September when the turf appears rebuilding there is a clearly a need to have responded quickly and for phosphate.

ABOVE: Mid-August a turning uniformly to the resumption of There will be a lot of annual point for turf having reached the rain in late August. However, closer meadowgrass (Poa annua) seed pinnacle of summer drought inspection often reveals a growth ‘floating’ around at this time of the flush of erstwhile drought resistant year ready to exploit newly created A distinct summer edge for other sports turf during very dry plantain) and Plantago lanceolata RIGHT PAGE TOP TO BOTTOM: weeds like yarrow that now occupy germination sites in threadbare clovers summers will invariably show that (narrow leaved plantain or ribwort) Late August/ early September rains a high proportion of any new leaf turf. A rapid response by Poa to Summer drought means greatly the welcome patches of green seen tend not to have a standard clas- have kicked and started grass cover. phosphorous, and the ability to reduced uptake and availability of at a distance are not turf grass at sical tap root like the dandelion growth but the broadleaf weeds will always have a head-start squeeze this grass weed by ‘with- water for plant metabolism but also all but substantial spreads of white and other ‘flat’ turf weeds. Instead This year’s (2014) heavy rain in What’s the answer – weed and holding’ phosphate fertiliser is well reduced uptake and availability of clover growing, spreading and they possess a distinct and definite early to mid-August broke the feed? known, but less well known is that soluble plant nutrients which enter flowering. crown just below ground level and summer drought and kick-started grass growth. However, one month Go into summer with an essen- Poa responds in similar way to root hair as soluble charged ions in However, that is not the only usually a large number of adventi- later and much of southern England, tially weed free sward because once potassium. soil water. reason why these and other broad- tious roots (roots which arise from like the south Hertfordshire course shown here, was approaching a dry conditions set in the options Annual meadowgrass is not the Like all other green plants, turf leaf weeds are generally better able a stem) spreading downwards from ‘double-dip’ drought. for herbicide treatment are quickly only turf weed overly responsive grasses require a balanced nutri- than turf grasses to withstand this crown, rather than a single This year’s heavy rain in early to mid- closed down. The vast majority to potassium. Dandelions already tion but a lack of nitrate as the periods of drought. White clover fleshy tap root. Be that as it may, August broke the summer drought and kick-started grass growth. But, of herbicides used in managed well dug in by tap roots relish main driver of green plant growth is produces runners which root at these ‘quasi tap roots’ are enough one month later and much of southern turf are systemic in action which autumn applications of potassium. clearly the most critical, at least in intervals while bird’s foot trefoil has to give plantains a distinct edge England, like the south Hertfordshire course shown here, was approaching means they have to be absorbed This becomes abundantly clear the short term. a strong tap root (a perennating over turf grasses (with fibrous root a ‘double-dip’ drought. by the roots in aqueous solution elsewhere in the turf and amenity Some turf weeds do not have this organ). This anchors the plant deep systems) when it comes to drought Weed and feed is the answer and taken into the plant before they sector where ryegrass swards pre- problem because their symbiotic in the soil and acts as a food storage tolerance. can deliver and execute any weed dominate. association with nitrogen fixing organ to tide plants over during Another notoriously drought about the author control action. One of the most warming bacteria (Rhizobium) means they physiologically unfavourable con- resistant weed of turf is yarrow. Its Weed growth during summer springtime sights is the carpet of are essentially self-sufficient in ditions such as prolonged drought. high tolerance to drought is due to drought is inhibited by the same dandelion flowers across a rye- nitrate, at least during reduced finely-cut fern-like leaves covered in water restrictions that stop grass grass sward in early April having growth conditions of summer. At the root of weed problems a thick waxy cuticle. These two leaf growth. Insufficient water uptake seemingly coming from nowhere. This is the main reason why Dandelion is the weed of man- form factors drastically reduce and means correspondingly reduced Ryegrass and dandelions have a turf invading clovers (members aged turf with the most formidable curtail loss of water by transpira- uptake of systemic herbicide and common character which is a very of the plant family Leguminosae) tap root as anyone who has tried tion during hot and dry conditions. insufficient metabolism for the high requirement for potassium. – Trifolium repens (white clover), to remove dandelions by hand will However, there are many broad- plant to react to the presence of The answer is to weed and feed Lotus corniculatus (bird’s foot tell you. There is no doubting the leaved turf weeds not described or herbicide molecules at its growing managed turf in the fall as soon as trefoil), Trifolium dubium (lesser prowess of the dandelion and close documented as drought resistant Dr Terry Mabbett points (cell division and cell elonga- good growing conditions prevail. trefoil or yellow suckling clover and relatives like cat’s ear (Hypochaeris but which are visibly tolerant Dr Terry Mabbett is a disease, tion regions at the stem and root Turf grasses can exploit the newly Medicago lupulina (black medick) radicata) and smooth hawk’s-beard of high soil temperature and low pest and weed control specialist with forty years apices). available nutrient supply and – can maintain growth through the (Crepis capillaris), all in the plant soil moisture, as a quick survey of international experience Herbicide treatment of drought broadleaf weeds can take initial summer months when turf grass family Asteraceae, as drought toler- parched summer turf will tell you. covering research, advisory and journalism. His current stricken turf simply adds to any advantage of systemic herbicides is becoming increasingly parched, ant weeds of turf. Dove’s foot cranesbill (Geranium fields of focus are professional existing physiological stress burden though clearly to their ultimate dry and brown. Indeed a closer Plantains such as Plantago major molle), self-heal (Prunella vulgaris) turf and alien insect pests and pathogens of Britain’s native on turf grass plants. disadvantage. inspection of hard-hit fairways and (broad leaf plantain or greater and creeping cinquefoil (Potentilla and naturalised trees.

46 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 GI 47 FEATURE WEED PROBLEMS

reptans) come into this category. Greenkeepers can’t control when Their creeping stems, rooting at the rain arrives and how much falls, intervals on self-heal and creeping but they do have complete control cinquefoil, are clearly a bulwark over when, what and how much against heat and drought and allow fertiliser is applied. these weeds to survive and flower Autumn is the time when turf on parched turf throughout the managers appear to be between summer. a rock and a hard place. The requirement is for enough fertiliser Head start for autumn weeds promptly applied to kickstart So what does all this mean for growth but not too much, and autumn turf? When the early especially of the ‘wrong’ kind of autumn rains arrive well estab- nutrient, to ensure that grass lished broadleaf weeds with root growth is strong and sufficiently systems still largely intact will resilient to withstand disease and clearly have a head start over turf low temperature winter conditions. grasses. Turf grasses must regain Conventional wisdom says go a substantial portion of their root easy on the nitrogen and boost system and mass, which retreated potassium ‘the gatekeeper nutri- and disappeared during the ent’, while harnessing advantages summer drought, before they can offered at this time by calcium take advantage of good growth ‘the cell wall builder and tissue conditions. strengthener’, and iron the nutrient The same water using advantage which furnishes ‘low growth grass that broadleaf weeds have over turf greening up’. grasses, at this time, also applies to Potassium helps to alleviate the accessing and absorption of nutri- risk of nitrogen-induced soft grass ents, with early autumn fertiliser growth by improving the efficiency applications feeding weeds rather of nitrogen utilization by the plant. than turf grass at least in the short Phosphateis the least discussed term. nutrient during this autumn The reality is often seen early in period but if grass root mass needs September when the turf appears rebuilding there is a clearly a need to have responded quickly and for phosphate.

ABOVE: Mid-August a turning uniformly to the resumption of There will be a lot of annual point for turf having reached the rain in late August. However, closer meadowgrass (Poa annua) seed pinnacle of summer drought inspection often reveals a growth ‘floating’ around at this time of the flush of erstwhile drought resistant year ready to exploit newly created A distinct summer edge for other sports turf during very dry plantain) and Plantago lanceolata RIGHT PAGE TOP TO BOTTOM: weeds like yarrow that now occupy germination sites in threadbare clovers summers will invariably show that (narrow leaved plantain or ribwort) Late August/ early September rains a high proportion of any new leaf turf. A rapid response by Poa to Summer drought means greatly the welcome patches of green seen tend not to have a standard clas- have kicked and started grass cover. phosphorous, and the ability to reduced uptake and availability of at a distance are not turf grass at sical tap root like the dandelion growth but the broadleaf weeds will always have a head-start squeeze this grass weed by ‘with- water for plant metabolism but also all but substantial spreads of white and other ‘flat’ turf weeds. Instead This year’s (2014) heavy rain in What’s the answer – weed and holding’ phosphate fertiliser is well reduced uptake and availability of clover growing, spreading and they possess a distinct and definite early to mid-August broke the feed? known, but less well known is that soluble plant nutrients which enter flowering. crown just below ground level and summer drought and kick-started grass growth. However, one month Go into summer with an essen- Poa responds in similar way to root hair as soluble charged ions in However, that is not the only usually a large number of adventi- later and much of southern England, tially weed free sward because once potassium. soil water. reason why these and other broad- tious roots (roots which arise from like the south Hertfordshire course shown here, was approaching a dry conditions set in the options Annual meadowgrass is not the Like all other green plants, turf leaf weeds are generally better able a stem) spreading downwards from ‘double-dip’ drought. for herbicide treatment are quickly only turf weed overly responsive grasses require a balanced nutri- than turf grasses to withstand this crown, rather than a single This year’s heavy rain in early to mid- closed down. The vast majority to potassium. Dandelions already tion but a lack of nitrate as the periods of drought. White clover fleshy tap root. Be that as it may, August broke the summer drought and kick-started grass growth. But, of herbicides used in managed well dug in by tap roots relish main driver of green plant growth is produces runners which root at these ‘quasi tap roots’ are enough one month later and much of southern turf are systemic in action which autumn applications of potassium. clearly the most critical, at least in intervals while bird’s foot trefoil has to give plantains a distinct edge England, like the south Hertfordshire course shown here, was approaching means they have to be absorbed This becomes abundantly clear the short term. a strong tap root (a perennating over turf grasses (with fibrous root a ‘double-dip’ drought. by the roots in aqueous solution elsewhere in the turf and amenity Some turf weeds do not have this organ). This anchors the plant deep systems) when it comes to drought Weed and feed is the answer and taken into the plant before they sector where ryegrass swards pre- problem because their symbiotic in the soil and acts as a food storage tolerance. can deliver and execute any weed dominate. association with nitrogen fixing organ to tide plants over during Another notoriously drought about the author control action. One of the most warming bacteria (Rhizobium) means they physiologically unfavourable con- resistant weed of turf is yarrow. Its Weed growth during summer springtime sights is the carpet of are essentially self-sufficient in ditions such as prolonged drought. high tolerance to drought is due to drought is inhibited by the same dandelion flowers across a rye- nitrate, at least during reduced finely-cut fern-like leaves covered in water restrictions that stop grass grass sward in early April having growth conditions of summer. At the root of weed problems a thick waxy cuticle. These two leaf growth. Insufficient water uptake seemingly coming from nowhere. This is the main reason why Dandelion is the weed of man- form factors drastically reduce and means correspondingly reduced Ryegrass and dandelions have a turf invading clovers (members aged turf with the most formidable curtail loss of water by transpira- uptake of systemic herbicide and common character which is a very of the plant family Leguminosae) tap root as anyone who has tried tion during hot and dry conditions. insufficient metabolism for the high requirement for potassium. – Trifolium repens (white clover), to remove dandelions by hand will However, there are many broad- plant to react to the presence of The answer is to weed and feed Lotus corniculatus (bird’s foot tell you. There is no doubting the leaved turf weeds not described or herbicide molecules at its growing managed turf in the fall as soon as trefoil), Trifolium dubium (lesser prowess of the dandelion and close documented as drought resistant Dr Terry Mabbett points (cell division and cell elonga- good growing conditions prevail. trefoil or yellow suckling clover and relatives like cat’s ear (Hypochaeris but which are visibly tolerant Dr Terry Mabbett is a disease, tion regions at the stem and root Turf grasses can exploit the newly Medicago lupulina (black medick) radicata) and smooth hawk’s-beard of high soil temperature and low pest and weed control specialist with forty years apices). available nutrient supply and – can maintain growth through the (Crepis capillaris), all in the plant soil moisture, as a quick survey of international experience Herbicide treatment of drought broadleaf weeds can take initial summer months when turf grass family Asteraceae, as drought toler- parched summer turf will tell you. covering research, advisory and journalism. His current stricken turf simply adds to any advantage of systemic herbicides is becoming increasingly parched, ant weeds of turf. Dove’s foot cranesbill (Geranium fields of focus are professional existing physiological stress burden though clearly to their ultimate dry and brown. Indeed a closer Plantains such as Plantago major molle), self-heal (Prunella vulgaris) turf and alien insect pests and pathogens of Britain’s native on turf grass plants. disadvantage. inspection of hard-hit fairways and (broad leaf plantain or greater and creeping cinquefoil (Potentilla and naturalised trees.

46 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 GI 47 FEATURE TORO SYSTEM

How a greenkeeper in the Midlands has used a Toro system to improve his course – in particular the tees and greens

ment early this year, a ProCore 648 we’re using for 25ml banding and was on the list.” tidy-ups around the fairways and The efficiency of the aeration greens. I was also pleased we were pedestrian system was soon proven able to switch to a Toro Greensmas- over the late winter and spring of ter 3250-D and Reelmaster 5510-D this year, the tees remaining play- fairway models. able despite incredibly wet weather. “I am used to Toro DPA cutting Playing days lost to the wet was units and find them simple to kept to under a week in total. adjust and keep ‘on cut’. Simon suggested aeration of both “We do not have in-house grind- the tees and greens was the key, ing here so being able to work with with members commenting on how a back lapping system I know really well the course was playing both helps keep the units razor sharp during the wet period and subse- between taking them away for a quent dry summer. re-grind.” “The fairways at Lingdale are hard As with a number of clubs, and stand up well to wet weather,” Lingdale does not have a dedicated Pedestrian added Simon. “The approaches are mechanic, the greens team all pretty good too, so aeration over having to tackle routine equipment wide areas is not as critical as it is maintenance between services. for our tees and greens. The key is Simon suggested any equipment being able to access key areas year he uses benefits from being prop- round. I like to aerate the greens erly looked after but he also needs aeration and tees at four to six week intervals to have reliable support, Andy using pencil tines down to 6- or Humble’s name cropping up in When Simon Graham became responsibility. But as every Head is now an accepted part of the club. 9mm. In spring, we swap to hollow conversation more than a couple Head Greenkeeper at Lingdale Greenkeeper knows, you cannot A downside has been that tees were tines and work down to 12mm. But of times. Golf Club, near Loughborough, wade in and just start doing things not always up to the challenge, the the point is we can aerate how we “I know greenkeeping is about just under a year ago, he had your way. You have to learn about tractor mounted aerator Simon want when we want.” far more than just the equipment some big boots to fill. The the course and, of equal impor- ‘inherited’ when he joined the club Adding that the latest model of we use, but having kit that the course has been described tance, get to know your team and struggled to gain access to the tees ProCore 648 benefits from a fast team like using and that we can as “a hidden gem within the the club’s greens committee. in the conditions when they most tine swap system, Simon said the keep running efficiently without Midlands” by renowned golf “I have had tremendous sup- need attention. ease of setting up the aerator quickly having to spend a long time in the commentator Peter Alliss, its port since joining Lingdale,” said “I wanted to be able to aerate for different tasks is a real plus. In workshop is a real plus. setting amidst Charnwood Simon. “Although I want to put the tees to improve their drain- fact he said he felt the ProCore 648 “All the equipment we use at Forest bringing with it an my experience into practice I also age performance but the tractor is the ‘best bit of kit Toro makes’. Lingdale is important, but with abundance of wildlife and need to learn from those who really mounted aerator just could not get Pressed for a criticism he said it is aeration so vital at Lingdale, I am atmosphere. So how has he know this course too. What has onto them in winter,” added Simon. ‘greedy’ on fuel, but counters even grateful to the greens committee got on and what changes has helped me is I have been fortunate “So I arranged to borrow a ProCore this by suggesting this needs to be for investing in the best bit of kit to he made during his time at the enough to have the full support of 648 from Andy Humble at Lely UK balanced against work done. allow me to do the job and that is club? the greens committee and this has last November as I knew this would “I was fortunate that the club was the ProCore 648. You do not have to spend long seen us purchase within our latest do what was needed. In a couple looking to replace its greens and “Of all the kit I have ever used, talking to Simon to realise he is pas- machinery order a Toro ProCore of days I had aerated all the tees fairway mowers when I arrived and being able to get onto tees and sionate about his job. Having spent 648 pedestrian aerator. Winter and also the greens with the aim of that the rough mower had been greens with the ProCore 648 and 16 years at Buckinghamshire Golf aeration of the tees has become one showing the greens committee why replaced the previous season with aerate them at any time without Club before moving to Lingdale, it of my top priorities.” a pedestrian machine was the way I a Toro 4500-D. I have always used interrupting play is the most impor- is clear he is extremely loyal to his The greens at Lingdale were all wanted to go. Toro equipment and I am pleased tant. It can get into the tightest of profession and is keen to put his rebuilt to USGA standards during The upshot of this is that when with the Groundsmaster 3500-D spots without causing any damage, mark on the course that is now his 1999, allowing year round play that the club renewed much of its equip- with Sidewinder side shift system is fast, easy to use and effective.”

48 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 GI 49 FEATURE TORO SYSTEM

How a greenkeeper in the Midlands has used a Toro system to improve his course – in particular the tees and greens

ment early this year, a ProCore 648 we’re using for 25ml banding and was on the list.” tidy-ups around the fairways and The efficiency of the aeration greens. I was also pleased we were pedestrian system was soon proven able to switch to a Toro Greensmas- over the late winter and spring of ter 3250-D and Reelmaster 5510-D this year, the tees remaining play- fairway models. able despite incredibly wet weather. “I am used to Toro DPA cutting Playing days lost to the wet was units and find them simple to kept to under a week in total. adjust and keep ‘on cut’. Simon suggested aeration of both “We do not have in-house grind- the tees and greens was the key, ing here so being able to work with with members commenting on how a back lapping system I know really well the course was playing both helps keep the units razor sharp during the wet period and subse- between taking them away for a quent dry summer. re-grind.” “The fairways at Lingdale are hard As with a number of clubs, and stand up well to wet weather,” Lingdale does not have a dedicated Pedestrian added Simon. “The approaches are mechanic, the greens team all pretty good too, so aeration over having to tackle routine equipment wide areas is not as critical as it is maintenance between services. for our tees and greens. The key is Simon suggested any equipment being able to access key areas year he uses benefits from being prop- round. I like to aerate the greens erly looked after but he also needs aeration and tees at four to six week intervals to have reliable support, Andy using pencil tines down to 6- or Humble’s name cropping up in When Simon Graham became responsibility. But as every Head is now an accepted part of the club. 9mm. In spring, we swap to hollow conversation more than a couple Head Greenkeeper at Lingdale Greenkeeper knows, you cannot A downside has been that tees were tines and work down to 12mm. But of times. Golf Club, near Loughborough, wade in and just start doing things not always up to the challenge, the the point is we can aerate how we “I know greenkeeping is about just under a year ago, he had your way. You have to learn about tractor mounted aerator Simon want when we want.” far more than just the equipment some big boots to fill. The the course and, of equal impor- ‘inherited’ when he joined the club Adding that the latest model of we use, but having kit that the course has been described tance, get to know your team and struggled to gain access to the tees ProCore 648 benefits from a fast team like using and that we can as “a hidden gem within the the club’s greens committee. in the conditions when they most tine swap system, Simon said the keep running efficiently without Midlands” by renowned golf “I have had tremendous sup- need attention. ease of setting up the aerator quickly having to spend a long time in the commentator Peter Alliss, its port since joining Lingdale,” said “I wanted to be able to aerate for different tasks is a real plus. In workshop is a real plus. setting amidst Charnwood Simon. “Although I want to put the tees to improve their drain- fact he said he felt the ProCore 648 “All the equipment we use at Forest bringing with it an my experience into practice I also age performance but the tractor is the ‘best bit of kit Toro makes’. Lingdale is important, but with abundance of wildlife and need to learn from those who really mounted aerator just could not get Pressed for a criticism he said it is aeration so vital at Lingdale, I am atmosphere. So how has he know this course too. What has onto them in winter,” added Simon. ‘greedy’ on fuel, but counters even grateful to the greens committee got on and what changes has helped me is I have been fortunate “So I arranged to borrow a ProCore this by suggesting this needs to be for investing in the best bit of kit to he made during his time at the enough to have the full support of 648 from Andy Humble at Lely UK balanced against work done. allow me to do the job and that is club? the greens committee and this has last November as I knew this would “I was fortunate that the club was the ProCore 648. You do not have to spend long seen us purchase within our latest do what was needed. In a couple looking to replace its greens and “Of all the kit I have ever used, talking to Simon to realise he is pas- machinery order a Toro ProCore of days I had aerated all the tees fairway mowers when I arrived and being able to get onto tees and sionate about his job. Having spent 648 pedestrian aerator. Winter and also the greens with the aim of that the rough mower had been greens with the ProCore 648 and 16 years at Buckinghamshire Golf aeration of the tees has become one showing the greens committee why replaced the previous season with aerate them at any time without Club before moving to Lingdale, it of my top priorities.” a pedestrian machine was the way I a Toro 4500-D. I have always used interrupting play is the most impor- is clear he is extremely loyal to his The greens at Lingdale were all wanted to go. Toro equipment and I am pleased tant. It can get into the tightest of profession and is keen to put his rebuilt to USGA standards during The upshot of this is that when with the Groundsmaster 3500-D spots without causing any damage, mark on the course that is now his 1999, allowing year round play that the club renewed much of its equip- with Sidewinder side shift system is fast, easy to use and effective.”

48 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 GI 49 MACHINERY TIPS A winter warmer Chris Minton, Head Mechanic at The Belfry, shares his top machinery maintenance tips as winter edges closer

At The Belfry we’re lucky enough to have three mechanics – but even if you don’t have a professional mechanic at your facility, there is no reason why you can’t follow a few simple tips to increase the lifespan of your equipment and ensure it performs at its best.

TOP TIPS

1 Battery maintenance

With cooler temperatures ahead it’s good to check in advance the condition of the battery, you can purchase locally several battery testers, we have a hydrometer that checks the specific gravity of each cell.

It is also good practice to keep the top of the battery clean from debris. The battery terminals should be cleaned regularly and a Chris and the Mechanics Machines coating of terminal spray is highly We have two other mechanics at The Belfry in the shed recommended. – my assistant Colin Barkby and Justin A selection... Astley-Brewer, our trainee buggy mechanic. Toro GM1000 greens 2 Antifreeze They are both also qualified greenkeepers. mower x9 We have a service schedule for every piece Toro GM1600 tees & Antifreeze in the machines needs of kit we operate, and because we have such collars mower x5 checking. Again we use a locally a big team (36 greenkeepers, four gardeners Toro GM3250 x5 sourced tester to check this, for 5 Petrol drain 7 Blade sharpening and three on divot duty) we have a lot of Toro GM3420 Triflex x1 all our machinery we use a mix of about the author machinery! We maintain 248 machines in Toro RM5410 fairway 50% antifreeze to 50% water. If you have two stroke and four As the grass growth slows, it’s a total, they range from a blower/strimmer up mower x5 stroke machines that are not good time to be sharpening flymo Chris’s late father to mowers to tractors to excavators. Toro RM3100 Most manufacturers going to be used in a while it’s good blades, rotary mower blades and used to service All members of the team are trained on sidewinder x3 recommend changing the practice to drain the fuel tank, this balance them including rough mowers for friends each machine by myself or Colin. We begin Toro GM3500 antifreeze every two years. is because petrol only has a shelf mower blades etc. and relatives in his with the induction then pre start checks. sidewinder x2 life of up to six weeks. spare time, and When the team member is competent Toro GM4000 rough We also have some watering 8 Greasing this rubbed off on in this their training is completed by the mower x4 cans in our machinery shed with This can save you time and Chris – he serviced greenkeepers. Toro 2020 sand bike x4 antifreeze ready mixed in, for the money on having to get the Greasing should be done on his first mower Not only do we maintain the mowers Toro MDXD truck x4 operators to use if the antifreeze is machine serviced in the spring. a regular basis but if this gets aged just ten! He but we maintain 84 electric Club Car golf Toro MDE truck x3 low on their pre start checks. missed, now is a good time to catch studied agricultural buggies, 21 utility vehicles, two excavators Toro procore 648 x1 6 Sprayers up. mechanics and his and a six ton dumper truck. We use about John Deere Gator x8 3 Tyre pressures first job was trainee 400 tons of topdressing annually so our John Deere 6x4 Gator Over the winter months we keep 9 Servicing mechanic at a garden grinders are in use most days. We service all x6 Tyre pressures should be our spray rigs indoors. machinery business. the machines as and when they’re due as John Deere tractors x7 checked all year round (this forms For a lot of golf clubs now should He then had a spell per the maunfacturers’ recommendations. Tele handlers x2 part of our pre start check) but this In an ideal world they would be be the time for planning your as self-employed We also run a preventative maintenance Various aeration is even more important in winter. indoors all the time as rays from machines’ servicing and grinding. mechanic repairing plan on all the machinery, and each machines Check for tyre wall wear and look the sun can damage the pipes and mowers and other machine has its own service file. Various dressers out for perished walls. the plastic tanks. 10 Stock machinery and has Every morning before any machine leaves 8 1/2 ton Hitachi worked at both the yard a pre start check is done by the excavator 4 Leaves If sprayers are kept outside in Plan in your budgets the Ransomes Jacobsen machine operator, if anything fails this 4 ton Komatsu cooler weather it’s good practice parts required for servicing your and Toro dealerships. check the machine doesn’t leave the yard excavator Service power blowers, leaf to put an antifreeze solution into machinery. Perform stock checks He has been in his until the problem is rectified. If a fault is 6 ton telex dumper truck collectors and trailers as leaf the sprayer rig, this could save you annually on parts to carry and current position at The found with any machine a job card is filled Shelton trencher collecting season is here. money in the long run. replenish used stock. Belfry for nine years. out to record the fault. Shelton gravel bander

50 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 GI 51 MACHINERY TIPS A winter warmer Chris Minton, Head Mechanic at The Belfry, shares his top machinery maintenance tips as winter edges closer

At The Belfry we’re lucky enough to have three mechanics – but even if you don’t have a professional mechanic at your facility, there is no reason why you can’t follow a few simple tips to increase the lifespan of your equipment and ensure it performs at its best.

TOP TIPS

1 Battery maintenance

With cooler temperatures ahead it’s good to check in advance the condition of the battery, you can purchase locally several battery testers, we have a hydrometer that checks the specific gravity of each cell.

It is also good practice to keep the top of the battery clean from debris. The battery terminals should be cleaned regularly and a Chris and the Mechanics Machines coating of terminal spray is highly We have two other mechanics at The Belfry in the shed recommended. – my assistant Colin Barkby and Justin A selection... Astley-Brewer, our trainee buggy mechanic. Toro GM1000 greens 2 Antifreeze They are both also qualified greenkeepers. mower x9 We have a service schedule for every piece Toro GM1600 tees & Antifreeze in the machines needs of kit we operate, and because we have such collars mower x5 checking. Again we use a locally a big team (36 greenkeepers, four gardeners Toro GM3250 x5 sourced tester to check this, for 5 Petrol drain 7 Blade sharpening and three on divot duty) we have a lot of Toro GM3420 Triflex x1 all our machinery we use a mix of about the author machinery! We maintain 248 machines in Toro RM5410 fairway 50% antifreeze to 50% water. If you have two stroke and four As the grass growth slows, it’s a total, they range from a blower/strimmer up mower x5 stroke machines that are not good time to be sharpening flymo Chris’s late father to mowers to tractors to excavators. Toro RM3100 Most manufacturers going to be used in a while it’s good blades, rotary mower blades and used to service All members of the team are trained on sidewinder x3 recommend changing the practice to drain the fuel tank, this balance them including rough mowers for friends each machine by myself or Colin. We begin Toro GM3500 antifreeze every two years. is because petrol only has a shelf mower blades etc. and relatives in his with the induction then pre start checks. sidewinder x2 life of up to six weeks. spare time, and When the team member is competent Toro GM4000 rough We also have some watering 8 Greasing this rubbed off on in this their training is completed by the mower x4 cans in our machinery shed with This can save you time and Chris – he serviced greenkeepers. Toro 2020 sand bike x4 antifreeze ready mixed in, for the money on having to get the Greasing should be done on his first mower Not only do we maintain the mowers Toro MDXD truck x4 operators to use if the antifreeze is machine serviced in the spring. a regular basis but if this gets aged just ten! He but we maintain 84 electric Club Car golf Toro MDE truck x3 low on their pre start checks. missed, now is a good time to catch studied agricultural buggies, 21 utility vehicles, two excavators Toro procore 648 x1 6 Sprayers up. mechanics and his and a six ton dumper truck. We use about John Deere Gator x8 3 Tyre pressures first job was trainee 400 tons of topdressing annually so our John Deere 6x4 Gator Over the winter months we keep 9 Servicing mechanic at a garden grinders are in use most days. We service all x6 Tyre pressures should be our spray rigs indoors. machinery business. the machines as and when they’re due as John Deere tractors x7 checked all year round (this forms For a lot of golf clubs now should He then had a spell per the maunfacturers’ recommendations. Tele handlers x2 part of our pre start check) but this In an ideal world they would be be the time for planning your as self-employed We also run a preventative maintenance Various aeration is even more important in winter. indoors all the time as rays from machines’ servicing and grinding. mechanic repairing plan on all the machinery, and each machines Check for tyre wall wear and look the sun can damage the pipes and mowers and other machine has its own service file. Various dressers out for perished walls. the plastic tanks. 10 Stock machinery and has Every morning before any machine leaves 8 1/2 ton Hitachi worked at both the yard a pre start check is done by the excavator 4 Leaves If sprayers are kept outside in Plan in your budgets the Ransomes Jacobsen machine operator, if anything fails this 4 ton Komatsu cooler weather it’s good practice parts required for servicing your and Toro dealerships. check the machine doesn’t leave the yard excavator Service power blowers, leaf to put an antifreeze solution into machinery. Perform stock checks He has been in his until the problem is rectified. If a fault is 6 ton telex dumper truck collectors and trailers as leaf the sprayer rig, this could save you annually on parts to carry and current position at The found with any machine a job card is filled Shelton trencher collecting season is here. money in the long run. replenish used stock. Belfry for nine years. out to record the fault. Shelton gravel bander

50 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 GI 51 THE GRASS GROUP FEATURE Flexibility in mowing is the key With winter just around the corner, we take a look at how various clubs will be adjusting their mowing schedule

As winter approaches and temperatures drop it’s common to find maintenance moves away from grass cutting and over to other activities such as leaf clearing and woodland maintenance. However, although the growth may be slow, mowing is still required. Mowing is an activity that frequently begins early morning, with the main aim being to get the machines out and the cut- ting completed so the activity on the surface can commence. Early morning mowing often means deal- ing with dew for the majority of the year, alongside the increasingly wet weather we will begin to experience. It’s vital your mower is capable of dealing with these conditions. Mower manufacturers have introduced a number of brush and roller options designed to prevent wet grass from clogging the cutting unit and to aid in efficient dispersal of cuttings - spreading them evenly and preventing clumps. Therefore selecting the correct mower for but strong construction, operators Pro-Flex 120 offers a cut width of mower. As the grass is less able to the TMSystem™ for greens or fair- said: “We found the quality of cut the job at hand is one of the most are able to mow longer into wet 3m (10ft) and graduated cut height combat wear and will take longer way mowers. The range of SMART and ability to manipulate the type important decisions. The Grass conditions. options of 1”to 3” in ¼ inch incre- to recover from any manipulation cassettes enables greenkeepers of cut based on turf conditions Group can supply a wide variety of At Mid Herts Golf Club, Course ments. The flexible mower decks over the winter period, it is ben- to conduct different maintenance allowed us more scope to improve mowers be they rotary or flail from Manager Jody Wilson is compli- adjust fore and aft, ± 10º up and eficial to look for ways of reducing activities including aeration, the overall quality of the greens.” Progressive for large areas; cylin- mentary about his Progressive down ±22º. the stress whilst still maintaining brushing, de-thatching, scarifying, With the less favourable weather der pedestrian units from ATT for ProFlex 120 contour mower on its The Progressive range is espe- the required mowing style. This is top dressing, grooming, levelling conditions, shorter days and smaller areas or replacement cas- ability to cut wet grass. He said: cially commended for its simplicity where a pedestrian unit – such as and mowing. the grass in a relatively dormant settes for triplex or fairway mowers “Our previous kit had serious to use and the ease of transporting the ATT INFiNiSystem™ fitted with After a demo of the SMARTUl- phase, it is good practice for the for golf and football. issues when it came to cutting long, the mowers. Andrew Smallshaw, the SMARTCut™ cassette - comes traGroomer™, Paul Seago, Course greenkeeper to use this time to Progressive offer an extensive wet grass but I have to say that the Head Greenkeeper at Knott End into play giving ultimate versatility Manager at The Renaissance, pur- carry out some light maintenance range of roller mowers ranging from quality of the cut I get now on a wet Golf Club, purchased a ProFlex 120 and allowing maintenance work on chased a total of eleven cassettes to of the mowers before use. The 65 inches (1.6m) 3 point linkage surface with the ProFlex 120 is first from The Grass Group at the tail more localised and hard to reach cater for their fairway mower and few minutes spent here can avoid mounted to 30 feet (9.1m) tractor class.” end of 2013. It has been used at the areas. two triplex units. larger, costly repairs and prevent trailed with a horse power require- Mid Herts use their ProFlex for club since the spring and has made Hand cutting, as opposed to Paul said: “We have not been damage to the turf. One of the great ment from 25Hp to 130Hp. Height the bulk of the rough area, which a great impression. triplex mowing, reduces the lateral disappointed. They have been benefits of rotary mowers is the of cut is from ½ inch (13mm) up to could be described as “lumpy and Andrew explained: “The whole movement on the softer turf. It also used continuously throughout the ease of maintenance and enhanced 4 inches (100mm) and is adjusted bumpy” but with the five decks, team use it, it’s great – simple to provides the operator with much season - it can be pouring down durability. by a quick and simple system used each equipped with a shock maintain, strong, robust, easy to more discretion, making it possible with rain but the lads can still go But as a general rule, conduct throughout the range. absorber, it works perfectly. Jody operate and quickly attached to a to identify the areas of turf that are out and do the work and leave daily visual checks and carry out The Progressive range of roller added: “There are no scalping tractor. You can reverse into tight weaker and ‘lift back’ on the unit to no mess meaning we can keep to light maintenance throughout the mowers use a full width blade and issues which is a big plus.” areas with ease; it comes out in avoid any unnecessary stress. The schedule.” year. Use the time in the winter specially designed deck to produce There are many factors involved front of all the machines I’ve tried.” other simple way of reducing stress Abbeydale Golf Club in Shef- when the workload is less to take a superior cut and excellent grass in determining the cutting height; Rotary mowers remain a popular is to increase the height of cut. field who have moved over to the the mower apart and have a good distribution without any clumping the type of turf, the growth rate, choice for amenity turf, but some The flexibility of the ATT system SMARTCut™ cassettes in place look at all the working parts to or wind rows even in wet conditions. environmental factors and overall surfaces such as golf greens is that when conditions allow all of their OEM cutting units. Head ensure maximum efficiency all year Because of the mowers’ lightweight condition to name but a few. The demand the use of a cylinder SMART cassettes can be utilised in Greenkeeper Warwick Manning round.

52 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 GI 53 THE GRASS GROUP FEATURE Flexibility in mowing is the key With winter just around the corner, we take a look at how various clubs will be adjusting their mowing schedule

As winter approaches and temperatures drop it’s common to find maintenance moves away from grass cutting and over to other activities such as leaf clearing and woodland maintenance. However, although the growth may be slow, mowing is still required. Mowing is an activity that frequently begins early morning, with the main aim being to get the machines out and the cut- ting completed so the activity on the surface can commence. Early morning mowing often means deal- ing with dew for the majority of the year, alongside the increasingly wet weather we will begin to experience. It’s vital your mower is capable of dealing with these conditions. Mower manufacturers have introduced a number of brush and roller options designed to prevent wet grass from clogging the cutting unit and to aid in efficient dispersal of cuttings - spreading them evenly and preventing clumps. Therefore selecting the correct mower for but strong construction, operators Pro-Flex 120 offers a cut width of mower. As the grass is less able to the TMSystem™ for greens or fair- said: “We found the quality of cut the job at hand is one of the most are able to mow longer into wet 3m (10ft) and graduated cut height combat wear and will take longer way mowers. The range of SMART and ability to manipulate the type important decisions. The Grass conditions. options of 1”to 3” in ¼ inch incre- to recover from any manipulation cassettes enables greenkeepers of cut based on turf conditions Group can supply a wide variety of At Mid Herts Golf Club, Course ments. The flexible mower decks over the winter period, it is ben- to conduct different maintenance allowed us more scope to improve mowers be they rotary or flail from Manager Jody Wilson is compli- adjust fore and aft, ± 10º up and eficial to look for ways of reducing activities including aeration, the overall quality of the greens.” Progressive for large areas; cylin- mentary about his Progressive down ±22º. the stress whilst still maintaining brushing, de-thatching, scarifying, With the less favourable weather der pedestrian units from ATT for ProFlex 120 contour mower on its The Progressive range is espe- the required mowing style. This is top dressing, grooming, levelling conditions, shorter days and smaller areas or replacement cas- ability to cut wet grass. He said: cially commended for its simplicity where a pedestrian unit – such as and mowing. the grass in a relatively dormant settes for triplex or fairway mowers “Our previous kit had serious to use and the ease of transporting the ATT INFiNiSystem™ fitted with After a demo of the SMARTUl- phase, it is good practice for the for golf and football. issues when it came to cutting long, the mowers. Andrew Smallshaw, the SMARTCut™ cassette - comes traGroomer™, Paul Seago, Course greenkeeper to use this time to Progressive offer an extensive wet grass but I have to say that the Head Greenkeeper at Knott End into play giving ultimate versatility Manager at The Renaissance, pur- carry out some light maintenance range of roller mowers ranging from quality of the cut I get now on a wet Golf Club, purchased a ProFlex 120 and allowing maintenance work on chased a total of eleven cassettes to of the mowers before use. The 65 inches (1.6m) 3 point linkage surface with the ProFlex 120 is first from The Grass Group at the tail more localised and hard to reach cater for their fairway mower and few minutes spent here can avoid mounted to 30 feet (9.1m) tractor class.” end of 2013. It has been used at the areas. two triplex units. larger, costly repairs and prevent trailed with a horse power require- Mid Herts use their ProFlex for club since the spring and has made Hand cutting, as opposed to Paul said: “We have not been damage to the turf. One of the great ment from 25Hp to 130Hp. Height the bulk of the rough area, which a great impression. triplex mowing, reduces the lateral disappointed. They have been benefits of rotary mowers is the of cut is from ½ inch (13mm) up to could be described as “lumpy and Andrew explained: “The whole movement on the softer turf. It also used continuously throughout the ease of maintenance and enhanced 4 inches (100mm) and is adjusted bumpy” but with the five decks, team use it, it’s great – simple to provides the operator with much season - it can be pouring down durability. by a quick and simple system used each equipped with a shock maintain, strong, robust, easy to more discretion, making it possible with rain but the lads can still go But as a general rule, conduct throughout the range. absorber, it works perfectly. Jody operate and quickly attached to a to identify the areas of turf that are out and do the work and leave daily visual checks and carry out The Progressive range of roller added: “There are no scalping tractor. You can reverse into tight weaker and ‘lift back’ on the unit to no mess meaning we can keep to light maintenance throughout the mowers use a full width blade and issues which is a big plus.” areas with ease; it comes out in avoid any unnecessary stress. The schedule.” year. Use the time in the winter specially designed deck to produce There are many factors involved front of all the machines I’ve tried.” other simple way of reducing stress Abbeydale Golf Club in Shef- when the workload is less to take a superior cut and excellent grass in determining the cutting height; Rotary mowers remain a popular is to increase the height of cut. field who have moved over to the the mower apart and have a good distribution without any clumping the type of turf, the growth rate, choice for amenity turf, but some The flexibility of the ATT system SMARTCut™ cassettes in place look at all the working parts to or wind rows even in wet conditions. environmental factors and overall surfaces such as golf greens is that when conditions allow all of their OEM cutting units. Head ensure maximum efficiency all year Because of the mowers’ lightweight condition to name but a few. The demand the use of a cylinder SMART cassettes can be utilised in Greenkeeper Warwick Manning round.

52 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 GI 53 Section Notes Please email your notes to All the latest news from your Section, steve.castle closing in. If only everything in greenkeeping could go this @bigga.co.uk smoothly! Just two more club competitions to get through by the 10th in your new-look notes pages... of the month then I can swap my greenkeeper hat for my golf course renovation one. I can’t wait. Well done to David Cuthbertson, Martin Woods and Midland Phil Hargreaves for winning the white moss inter section competition. On 10 September we had the pleasure of attending a walk and talk evening around the newly built Cathedral Around the green course hosted by Roger Shaw, Course Manager of Ramside Hall Golf Club. Roger and his team have been working on this project for three years during which time they have faced numerous challenges and setbacks. It was to increase the number of education/social events provided a real inspiration to visit the course and spend some time but need more people on the Committee to make it happen. listening to a senior member of the Cleveland section talk Contact your Section correspondent with news, I would like to remind you that we on the Committee give so openly about the new course. If you ever get the chance events or anything else for Around the green... our time and efforts freely to try and help and support to visit you won’t be disappointed. I would also like to Northern fellow members of the Section but we can’t do it alone. To thank Ian Pemberton for organising the evening. help us and your Section please volunteer some help and get involved. It’s not a big job but it will provide valuable NORTH WALES experience of organising events and being involved in a The autumn tournament was played at Caernarfon Golf committee (as a side benefit it will look good on your CV). Club. We initially did cancel the comp due to it being under We have created an online survey on our Section subscribed, we then put it back on with a last minute rush BB&O - The Stick MID ANGLIA MIDLAND EAST OF ENGLAND EAST MIDLAND of players and much bemoaning the loss. There is a moral bboscribe@gmail. Darren Mugford Sean McDade Steve Beverly Nigel White Facebook page (BIGGA Northern Section) for us to get some com or Matt Nutter d.mugford@ sean.mcdade@ steveimmingham@ nigelwhite1553@ idea about what you would like to see us providing for you. to this; remember to return your application form by the bbosecretary@gmail. rigbytaylor.com homecall.co.uk aol.com gmail.com As an incentive, for the 150th “Like” on the page from a closing date. Results to follow in next month’s column. com Greenkeeper, working within the Northern Section area, We welcome Wrexham Golf Club’s new Head Contact your Section correspondent with news, we are offering a year’s free BIGGA membership or a £50 Greenkeeper, David Wilkinson to his new job and also to Events coming up events or anything else for Around the green... M&S voucher courtesy of the Section. Please get in touch the section; we hope to see plenty of him in the future. via email, phone, text or Facebook. Thanks, your section Finally I must pass on the sad news that Darland Golf MID ANGLIA Chairman, John Watts. Club closed a little while ago, leaving Simon Ashford and Dave Coates still looking for new employment in Our next meeting will be at Northants County GC on 22 October NORTH EAST the greenkeeping field, here’s hoping that they find new and is also our AGM so hope to see plenty there at a cracking venue. Results from the Northern Region Intersection Golf positions soon. Coffee & bacon rolls from 8.30 and 9.30 first tee time. tournament At Northumberland GC: NORTH EAST NORTH WEST CLEVELAND NORTHERN SHEFFIELD NORTH WALES 1 Cleveland (Martin Woods, Phil Hargrave, Davy Our next golfing event is our Turkey Trot/ Texas Scramble and Glen Baxter Eddie Ainsworth Anthony Andy Slingsby Neil Peters Pete Maybury Thanks to sponsors glen.baxter@ e.ainsworth@ McGeough andy.slingsby98@ neilpeters66@ petemayb66@ Cuthbertson) countback, 2 Sheffield (Andy Unwin, Dave will be held at Ashridge GC on December 10. We need at least one rigbytaylor.com ymail.com amcgeough@ googlemail.com gmail.com aol.com Brownlow, Lee Grievson), 3 Northern (Dave Collins, Nigel team member to have played in one of our other events through the aol.com NORTH EAST Coultish, Thomas Coultish), 4 North Wales, 5 North East Thanks to Whitemoss for sponsoring the inter section season in order to secure a spot for this ever popular event. Cost will Events Coming Up Section, 6 North West Section – no show! match, Paul O’Connor for the fantastic condition of the be £30 for Members and £40 for Guests so please get your teams in We wish Simon Olver well in his new role as HGK of Northumberland GC and the Northumberland club itself early to avoid missing out. NORTH EAST Whitley Bay GC, and David Wilkinson who has moved from for their hospitality. The Autumn tournament will be held at Alnmouth on Wednesday 8 Whitley to take up the HGK role at Wrexham GC. All the Thanks to Sponsors October. best from the section. SHEFFIELD Thanks to Glen Sawyer of Russell’s Groundcare for MID ANGLIA SHEFFIELD SHEFFIELD sponsoring our Autumn tournament. We held our Autumn Tournament at Hallamshire Golf Our next Golf Competition is our Christmas Comp this will be held at A massive thanks goes to our Sponsors of the section for 2014. Club under clear blue skies on 9 September. The course Bondhay GC on Thursday 4 December. This will be followed by our AGM CLEVELAND They are Tuckwells Machinery, ALS, Headland Amenity, Avoncrop was in excellent condition, a big thank you to Gordon and hopefully we can get a good turn out. If have any information for me Thanks to Brendan Brown from Northern Lubricants Amenity, Farmura, Rigby Taylor, Amenity Technology. We thank his team for giving us a good test. Results: 1 Neil Bishop please email [email protected] for supplying the refreshments at Ramside. you for your continued support with funds towards the Mid Anglia Worksop GC 36pts, 2 Mark Morgan Grange Park GC Section. Banks Amenity also sponsor our Golfer of the Year Trophy 35, 3 Mat Holdon Sickleholme GC 34, 4 Lee Greveson CLEVELAND Welcome New Members again this year so once again your support means a lot and please Hallamshire GC, 5 David Brownlow Wath GC 29. The trade Autumn Tournament at Bedlingtonshire Golf Club Tuesday 14 John Chamberlain, Affiliate, Tacit, Christopher Porter, consider these suppliers for your requirements the coming months prize was won by Dave Smith with 30pts well done to all the October, cost £16. Greenkeeper, Stockport Golf Club, Thomas Coultish, and beyond into 2015. prize winners. AGM Monday 24 November 7pm start. Assistant Greenkeeper, Alwoodley Golf Club, Allan Curtis, After the meal Gordon Brammah was presented with a Assistant Greenkeeper, Whitley Bay Golf Club. If you feel you may be interested in sponsoring Mid Anglia Section in gift for his outstanding work to the Sheffield section. Gordon NORTH WALES 2014/15 please contact a committee member for details, Our Christmas tournament and AGM takes place at Wallasey Golf has been secretary, chairman and until recently president a Club on Thursday December 4, please remember to return your entry by big thank you to Gordon for his contribution to the section. 25 November. Congratulations to Rob Acheson who has recently taken Welcome New Members up the post of Head Greenkeeper at Worksop Golf Club. The Sheffield Section Facebook site has now been Around the Kelly-Marie Clack, Affiliate, Countrywide Farmers PLC, Daniel News activated search for Biggasheffield. Most of us now use McHugh, Greenkeeper, Berkhamsted Golf Club, Luke Phythian, social media so hopefully we could create a bit of a forum, green Assistant Greenkeeper, Little Aston Golf Club, Ben Wiggins, NORTHERN so get some messages put on even send some photos of any Assistant Greenkeeper, Tidbury Green Golf Club, Adam Footitt, Currently within the Section Committee we are facing some work you are carrying out. Assistant Greenkeeper, Luffenham Heath Golf Club, Scott Broom, difficult decisions and need some help from you the Northern Section Please send your news and photos in Assistant Greenkeeper, Arkley Golf Club, Elliot Green, Assistant membership. We currently run six Section golf events per year but have CLEVELAND to your section correspondent or Steve Greenkeeper, The Astbury. found attendance drop alarmingly over the last couple of years. So far September has been good to me. The weather has Castle ([email protected]) by the We would like your views on whether we continue to put on such been beautiful and calm, giving me time to scarify, spike 10th of each month events. In the future, we are proposing to reduce the number of golf and topdress the greens without the usual mad dash to events to three, unless we hear differently from you. We would also like get everything done in one day because the clouds are

54 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 GI 55 Section Notes Please email your notes to All the latest news from your Section, steve.castle closing in. If only everything in greenkeeping could go this @bigga.co.uk smoothly! Just two more club competitions to get through by the 10th in your new-look notes pages... of the month then I can swap my greenkeeper hat for my golf course renovation one. I can’t wait. Well done to David Cuthbertson, Martin Woods and Midland Phil Hargreaves for winning the white moss inter section competition. On 10 September we had the pleasure of attending a walk and talk evening around the newly built Cathedral Around the green course hosted by Roger Shaw, Course Manager of Ramside Hall Golf Club. Roger and his team have been working on this project for three years during which time they have faced numerous challenges and setbacks. It was to increase the number of education/social events provided a real inspiration to visit the course and spend some time but need more people on the Committee to make it happen. listening to a senior member of the Cleveland section talk Contact your Section correspondent with news, I would like to remind you that we on the Committee give so openly about the new course. If you ever get the chance events or anything else for Around the green... our time and efforts freely to try and help and support to visit you won’t be disappointed. I would also like to Northern fellow members of the Section but we can’t do it alone. To thank Ian Pemberton for organising the evening. help us and your Section please volunteer some help and get involved. It’s not a big job but it will provide valuable NORTH WALES experience of organising events and being involved in a The autumn tournament was played at Caernarfon Golf committee (as a side benefit it will look good on your CV). Club. We initially did cancel the comp due to it being under We have created an online survey on our Section subscribed, we then put it back on with a last minute rush BB&O - The Stick MID ANGLIA MIDLAND EAST OF ENGLAND EAST MIDLAND of players and much bemoaning the loss. There is a moral bboscribe@gmail. Darren Mugford Sean McDade Steve Beverly Nigel White Facebook page (BIGGA Northern Section) for us to get some com or Matt Nutter d.mugford@ sean.mcdade@ steveimmingham@ nigelwhite1553@ idea about what you would like to see us providing for you. to this; remember to return your application form by the bbosecretary@gmail. rigbytaylor.com homecall.co.uk aol.com gmail.com As an incentive, for the 150th “Like” on the page from a closing date. Results to follow in next month’s column. com Greenkeeper, working within the Northern Section area, We welcome Wrexham Golf Club’s new Head Contact your Section correspondent with news, we are offering a year’s free BIGGA membership or a £50 Greenkeeper, David Wilkinson to his new job and also to Events coming up events or anything else for Around the green... M&S voucher courtesy of the Section. Please get in touch the section; we hope to see plenty of him in the future. via email, phone, text or Facebook. Thanks, your section Finally I must pass on the sad news that Darland Golf MID ANGLIA Chairman, John Watts. Club closed a little while ago, leaving Simon Ashford and Dave Coates still looking for new employment in Our next meeting will be at Northants County GC on 22 October NORTH EAST the greenkeeping field, here’s hoping that they find new and is also our AGM so hope to see plenty there at a cracking venue. Results from the Northern Region Intersection Golf positions soon. Coffee & bacon rolls from 8.30 and 9.30 first tee time. tournament At Northumberland GC: NORTH EAST NORTH WEST CLEVELAND NORTHERN SHEFFIELD NORTH WALES 1 Cleveland (Martin Woods, Phil Hargrave, Davy Our next golfing event is our Turkey Trot/ Texas Scramble and Glen Baxter Eddie Ainsworth Anthony Andy Slingsby Neil Peters Pete Maybury Thanks to sponsors glen.baxter@ e.ainsworth@ McGeough andy.slingsby98@ neilpeters66@ petemayb66@ Cuthbertson) countback, 2 Sheffield (Andy Unwin, Dave will be held at Ashridge GC on December 10. We need at least one rigbytaylor.com ymail.com amcgeough@ googlemail.com gmail.com aol.com Brownlow, Lee Grievson), 3 Northern (Dave Collins, Nigel team member to have played in one of our other events through the aol.com NORTH EAST Coultish, Thomas Coultish), 4 North Wales, 5 North East Thanks to Whitemoss for sponsoring the inter section season in order to secure a spot for this ever popular event. Cost will Events Coming Up Section, 6 North West Section – no show! match, Paul O’Connor for the fantastic condition of the be £30 for Members and £40 for Guests so please get your teams in We wish Simon Olver well in his new role as HGK of Northumberland GC and the Northumberland club itself early to avoid missing out. NORTH EAST Whitley Bay GC, and David Wilkinson who has moved from for their hospitality. The Autumn tournament will be held at Alnmouth on Wednesday 8 Whitley to take up the HGK role at Wrexham GC. All the Thanks to Sponsors October. best from the section. SHEFFIELD Thanks to Glen Sawyer of Russell’s Groundcare for MID ANGLIA SHEFFIELD SHEFFIELD sponsoring our Autumn tournament. We held our Autumn Tournament at Hallamshire Golf Our next Golf Competition is our Christmas Comp this will be held at A massive thanks goes to our Sponsors of the section for 2014. Club under clear blue skies on 9 September. The course Bondhay GC on Thursday 4 December. This will be followed by our AGM CLEVELAND They are Tuckwells Machinery, ALS, Headland Amenity, Avoncrop was in excellent condition, a big thank you to Gordon and hopefully we can get a good turn out. If have any information for me Thanks to Brendan Brown from Northern Lubricants Amenity, Farmura, Rigby Taylor, Amenity Technology. We thank his team for giving us a good test. Results: 1 Neil Bishop please email [email protected] for supplying the refreshments at Ramside. you for your continued support with funds towards the Mid Anglia Worksop GC 36pts, 2 Mark Morgan Grange Park GC Section. Banks Amenity also sponsor our Golfer of the Year Trophy 35, 3 Mat Holdon Sickleholme GC 34, 4 Lee Greveson CLEVELAND Welcome New Members again this year so once again your support means a lot and please Hallamshire GC, 5 David Brownlow Wath GC 29. The trade Autumn Tournament at Bedlingtonshire Golf Club Tuesday 14 John Chamberlain, Affiliate, Tacit, Christopher Porter, consider these suppliers for your requirements the coming months prize was won by Dave Smith with 30pts well done to all the October, cost £16. Greenkeeper, Stockport Golf Club, Thomas Coultish, and beyond into 2015. prize winners. AGM Monday 24 November 7pm start. Assistant Greenkeeper, Alwoodley Golf Club, Allan Curtis, After the meal Gordon Brammah was presented with a Assistant Greenkeeper, Whitley Bay Golf Club. If you feel you may be interested in sponsoring Mid Anglia Section in gift for his outstanding work to the Sheffield section. Gordon NORTH WALES 2014/15 please contact a committee member for details, Our Christmas tournament and AGM takes place at Wallasey Golf has been secretary, chairman and until recently president a Club on Thursday December 4, please remember to return your entry by big thank you to Gordon for his contribution to the section. 25 November. Congratulations to Rob Acheson who has recently taken Welcome New Members up the post of Head Greenkeeper at Worksop Golf Club. The Sheffield Section Facebook site has now been Around the Kelly-Marie Clack, Affiliate, Countrywide Farmers PLC, Daniel News activated search for Biggasheffield. Most of us now use McHugh, Greenkeeper, Berkhamsted Golf Club, Luke Phythian, social media so hopefully we could create a bit of a forum, green Assistant Greenkeeper, Little Aston Golf Club, Ben Wiggins, NORTHERN so get some messages put on even send some photos of any Assistant Greenkeeper, Tidbury Green Golf Club, Adam Footitt, Currently within the Section Committee we are facing some work you are carrying out. Assistant Greenkeeper, Luffenham Heath Golf Club, Scott Broom, difficult decisions and need some help from you the Northern Section Please send your news and photos in Assistant Greenkeeper, Arkley Golf Club, Elliot Green, Assistant membership. We currently run six Section golf events per year but have CLEVELAND to your section correspondent or Steve Greenkeeper, The Astbury. found attendance drop alarmingly over the last couple of years. So far September has been good to me. The weather has Castle ([email protected]) by the We would like your views on whether we continue to put on such been beautiful and calm, giving me time to scarify, spike 10th of each month events. In the future, we are proposing to reduce the number of golf and topdress the greens without the usual mad dash to events to three, unless we hear differently from you. We would also like get everything done in one day because the clouds are

54 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 GI 55 with grow sheets was all completed in ten days. The course SOUTH WEST remains fully open to well prepared temporaries and is still Great news to hear that Tom Freeman of Kingsdown Golf Club the original best footgolf site in the South East! was a runner-up in the Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year for 2014. Congratulations Tom from all of our members and a South East SURREY serious inspiration for all budding greenkeeper apprentices and Former BIGGA Chairman John Millen has retired from South West greenkeepers in training to demonstrate one of the many benefits Hadlow College. of progressing with your education. John has been an inspiration for many a student whilst Following a fantastic day of golf at the Everris Golf Management teaching and using his great management skills to enable & South Trophy held at Chipping Sodbury Golf Club, congratulations many a greenkeeper to progress to greater height in their must be made to all of the team there who presented a pristine golf careers. Wish you the very best on your retirement. course and very pleasant presentation and meal, oh, and well done Surrey Bowl Final will be reported with results from Wales to the home team for taking first place on the day also! Good luck Match V Reps next month at Frilford Heath guys! Good luck to the semi-finalists in the Countrywide Knockout Contact your Section correspondent with news, Thanks to Sponsors Contact your Section correspondent with news, (yet to be confirmed at press!). The final will be held at Bowood events or anything else for Around the green... events or anything else for Around the green... once the semi-finals have been completed, date to be confirmed. As ever we have specialist training being organised in line with KENT demand from across the section. Excavator training in both basic Thanks to Vic Maynard and Ernest Does for their and refresher will be available shortly. We have had strong interest generosity in providing sustenance at Etchinghill. and attendance on refresher courses recently with 35 members completing this training over the last two years and demand Welcome New Members continues to be strong so please contact Paul Worster for details.

SURREY KENT SUSSEX EAST ANGLIA ESSEX LONDON SOUTH WEST – SOUTH COAST – DEVON & SOUTH WALES We have also had calls for training in specialist areas particularly Mark Day Rob Holland Chris Mick Lathrope Arnold John Wells Ryan Hyde, Affiliate, Tacit, Laura Nelson, Affiliate, Jaey Goodchild Russell Riley CORNWALL Andrew Hatcher a PA2 upgrade from apprenticeship qualifications, again please mark@ premiergolf Humphrey lil.lathrope@ Phipps-Jones j.wells1@sky j.goodchild@ rriley@countrywide Cameron Mcmorrin andrewhatcher1@ daylinks.co.uk 2012@hotmail. chris@collier- ntlworld.com essexbigga@ .com Symbio, Kyle Edge, Greenkeeper, Swaffham Golf Club, bowood.org farmers.co.uk cjmcmorrin@gmail. msn.com express your interest promptly to either Paul Worster (paulw@ co.uk turf-care.co.uk talktalk.net Stephen Milner, Greenkeeper, Pyecombe Golf Club, com mgcnew.co.uk), Tracey Harvey ([email protected]) or Allan Golding, Head Greenkeeper, Swaffham Golf Club, Events Coming Up myself. If there is any other training that is required drop any of us Events Coming Up Christopher Lynch. Head Groundsman, Harrow School a line and we will do our best to help you with organising this. Golf Club, James Warriner, Assistant Greenkeeper, If anyone on your team is not receiving Section emails please SOUTH WALES RAC (Royal Automobile Club), Mark Honey, Assistant ask them to contact me to supply their addresses (j.goodchild@ KENT The Autumn competition & AGM will be taking place at Greenkeeper, Wisley (The) Golf Club Plc. bowood.org). Next event is our annual Turkey Trot on 27 November at Redlibbets The Glamorganshire Golf Club on Thursday 16 October. Golf Club. Always great fun, hope to see as many of you there as It’s an opportunity for you to attend the AGM and air your possible. views. The first tee is booked for 12pm. Thanks to Sponsors

SURREY SOUTH WEST Many thanks to our South West Section 2014 Patrons: Upcoming educational programme includes a Greensman, Irritech, Headland Amenity, Countrywide, Farmura, 14 October Sussex v Surrey v Essex Tri Cup at Crowborough Beacon demonstration day on 29 October at Chippenham Golf Club Ecosolve, T H White, Indigrow and Sportsmark and for their GC that will include machinery demonstrations from Campey invaluable support. Quiz night 14 October at The Cricketers Pub, Chobham Turf Care and a presentation from BIGGA Vice Chairman Match v Secretaries The Berkshire GC 19 November Les Howkins titled Budgeting for the Modern Course. Welcome New Members England v Scotland Hankley Common GC 4 November Bookings are essential, please contact Paul (paulw@ Turkey Trot Guildford GC 19 December mgcnew.co.uk) or Adam ([email protected]). Allan Black, Deputy Head Greenkeeper, Royal Jersey Golf South West Section AGM will be held on Thursday 9 Club, Mark Simmons, Greenkeeper, Bath Golf Club, Peter October at Saltford Golf Club. This event will be taking Avent, Greenkeeper, Royal Porthcawl Golf Club, Jackson Ainley, News a new format will include 9 holes of golf, an educational Refund of Fees Assistant Greenkeeper, Brokenhurst Manor Golf Club, Ceiron presentation by Mark Hunt of Headland Amenity and a Thomas, Assistant Greenkeeper, Carmarthen Golf Club. KENT two course meal. Contact any of the committee members to A fantastic day was recently had by Kent’s finest ensemble at BIGGA MEMBERSHIP BENEFIT reserve place. Etchinghill Golf Club. A perfect day weather-wise helped too as despite Christmas Tournament and charity raffle will be held early mist the temperatures were kept under control as our team of on 17 December at Cirencester Golf Club, we expect to see intrepid climbers mounted assault on the summit of the course as the everyone there, entries are open! All of our Section events holes rose without respite until we reached the 14th! Fortunately, Vic Do you have to pay for your are open to members of other sections, please feel free to Maynard from Ernest Doe’s acted as the proverbial St Bernhard for the contact us and attend as everyone is welcome. Around the day dispensing liquids, Kendal mint cake and oxygen as necessary. own education and training? Shot of the day had to go to Gary Sidders of Lister Wilder who, in a blatant attempt to nobble the opposition, fired a ball straight into the You could claim a refund News midriff of Larry Pearman of Lely UK from 200 yards instantly felling him green and putting a sudden end to what had been a very decent performance SOUTH WALES by Larry despite his (once) ridiculously high handicap. of up to 80% of the fees What great weather September has bought us hopefully Other noteworthy shots (apart from the one’s on Vic’s wagon) were by (up to a maximum of £350) you have finished your greens renovation and they are Mark Todd for nearest the pin and Adam White who had a monstrous healing well, the section will be sponsoring people to attend longest drive. BTME 2015. If you’re interested put your name forward to Results: 1 Nick Leach (Wildernesse) 32pts, 2 Rob Holland For further information visit Paul Handy or Steve Lloyd. (Corinthians) 31, 3 Kev Morris (Redlibbets) 29. Trade: Phil Hughes (Lister Please send your news and photos in Wilder) www.bigga.org.uk/education/ DEVON & CORNWALL Many thanks to the Etchinghill team for providing a very tidy, well The Devon and Cornwall section committee will be to your section correspondent or Steve presented, uphill challenge and to the caterers and clubhouse staff who funding-opportunities nominating two people for a free trip to BTME 2015 – one Castle ([email protected]) by the were very attentive. or call 01347 833800 (option 3) from the Devon & Cornwall Section and one from the South 10th of each month At Corinthians Golf Club we have just reconstructed all 9 greens to West & South Wales Region. restore the playing surfaces to a higher level. A well organised operation Anyone who is interested please call Cam McMorrin of removal of the top two inches followed by ameliorating about fifteen on 07557 330380, Devon and Cornwall BIGGA section tonnes of rootzone into each green followed by seeding before covering representative.

56 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 GI 57 GI13_FILLER_REFUND FEES_1.4.indd 1 13/06/2013 11:29 with grow sheets was all completed in ten days. The course SOUTH WEST remains fully open to well prepared temporaries and is still Great news to hear that Tom Freeman of Kingsdown Golf Club the original best footgolf site in the South East! was a runner-up in the Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year for 2014. Congratulations Tom from all of our members and a South East SURREY serious inspiration for all budding greenkeeper apprentices and Former BIGGA Chairman John Millen has retired from South West greenkeepers in training to demonstrate one of the many benefits Hadlow College. of progressing with your education. John has been an inspiration for many a student whilst Following a fantastic day of golf at the Everris Golf Management teaching and using his great management skills to enable & South Trophy held at Chipping Sodbury Golf Club, congratulations many a greenkeeper to progress to greater height in their must be made to all of the team there who presented a pristine golf careers. Wish you the very best on your retirement. course and very pleasant presentation and meal, oh, and well done Surrey Bowl Final will be reported with results from Wales to the home team for taking first place on the day also! Good luck Match V Reps next month at Frilford Heath guys! Good luck to the semi-finalists in the Countrywide Knockout Contact your Section correspondent with news, Thanks to Sponsors Contact your Section correspondent with news, (yet to be confirmed at press!). The final will be held at Bowood events or anything else for Around the green... events or anything else for Around the green... once the semi-finals have been completed, date to be confirmed. As ever we have specialist training being organised in line with KENT demand from across the section. Excavator training in both basic Thanks to Vic Maynard and Ernest Does for their and refresher will be available shortly. We have had strong interest generosity in providing sustenance at Etchinghill. and attendance on refresher courses recently with 35 members completing this training over the last two years and demand Welcome New Members continues to be strong so please contact Paul Worster for details.

SURREY KENT SUSSEX EAST ANGLIA ESSEX LONDON SOUTH WEST – SOUTH COAST – DEVON & SOUTH WALES We have also had calls for training in specialist areas particularly Mark Day Rob Holland Chris Mick Lathrope Arnold John Wells Ryan Hyde, Affiliate, Tacit, Laura Nelson, Affiliate, Jaey Goodchild Russell Riley CORNWALL Andrew Hatcher a PA2 upgrade from apprenticeship qualifications, again please mark@ premiergolf Humphrey lil.lathrope@ Phipps-Jones j.wells1@sky j.goodchild@ rriley@countrywide Cameron Mcmorrin andrewhatcher1@ daylinks.co.uk 2012@hotmail. chris@collier- ntlworld.com essexbigga@ .com Symbio, Kyle Edge, Greenkeeper, Swaffham Golf Club, bowood.org farmers.co.uk cjmcmorrin@gmail. msn.com express your interest promptly to either Paul Worster (paulw@ co.uk turf-care.co.uk talktalk.net Stephen Milner, Greenkeeper, Pyecombe Golf Club, com mgcnew.co.uk), Tracey Harvey ([email protected]) or Allan Golding, Head Greenkeeper, Swaffham Golf Club, Events Coming Up myself. If there is any other training that is required drop any of us Events Coming Up Christopher Lynch. Head Groundsman, Harrow School a line and we will do our best to help you with organising this. Golf Club, James Warriner, Assistant Greenkeeper, If anyone on your team is not receiving Section emails please SOUTH WALES RAC (Royal Automobile Club), Mark Honey, Assistant ask them to contact me to supply their addresses (j.goodchild@ KENT The Autumn competition & AGM will be taking place at Greenkeeper, Wisley (The) Golf Club Plc. bowood.org). Next event is our annual Turkey Trot on 27 November at Redlibbets The Glamorganshire Golf Club on Thursday 16 October. Golf Club. Always great fun, hope to see as many of you there as It’s an opportunity for you to attend the AGM and air your possible. views. The first tee is booked for 12pm. Thanks to Sponsors

SURREY SOUTH WEST Many thanks to our South West Section 2014 Patrons: Upcoming educational programme includes a Greensman, Irritech, Headland Amenity, Countrywide, Farmura, 14 October Sussex v Surrey v Essex Tri Cup at Crowborough Beacon demonstration day on 29 October at Chippenham Golf Club Ecosolve, T H White, Indigrow and Sportsmark and for their GC that will include machinery demonstrations from Campey invaluable support. Quiz night 14 October at The Cricketers Pub, Chobham Turf Care and a presentation from BIGGA Vice Chairman Match v Secretaries The Berkshire GC 19 November Les Howkins titled Budgeting for the Modern Course. Welcome New Members England v Scotland Hankley Common GC 4 November Bookings are essential, please contact Paul (paulw@ Turkey Trot Guildford GC 19 December mgcnew.co.uk) or Adam ([email protected]). Allan Black, Deputy Head Greenkeeper, Royal Jersey Golf South West Section AGM will be held on Thursday 9 Club, Mark Simmons, Greenkeeper, Bath Golf Club, Peter October at Saltford Golf Club. This event will be taking Avent, Greenkeeper, Royal Porthcawl Golf Club, Jackson Ainley, News a new format will include 9 holes of golf, an educational Refund of Fees Assistant Greenkeeper, Brokenhurst Manor Golf Club, Ceiron presentation by Mark Hunt of Headland Amenity and a Thomas, Assistant Greenkeeper, Carmarthen Golf Club. KENT two course meal. Contact any of the committee members to A fantastic day was recently had by Kent’s finest ensemble at BIGGA MEMBERSHIP BENEFIT reserve place. Etchinghill Golf Club. A perfect day weather-wise helped too as despite Christmas Tournament and charity raffle will be held early mist the temperatures were kept under control as our team of on 17 December at Cirencester Golf Club, we expect to see intrepid climbers mounted assault on the summit of the course as the everyone there, entries are open! All of our Section events holes rose without respite until we reached the 14th! Fortunately, Vic Do you have to pay for your are open to members of other sections, please feel free to Maynard from Ernest Doe’s acted as the proverbial St Bernhard for the contact us and attend as everyone is welcome. Around the day dispensing liquids, Kendal mint cake and oxygen as necessary. own education and training? Shot of the day had to go to Gary Sidders of Lister Wilder who, in a blatant attempt to nobble the opposition, fired a ball straight into the You could claim a refund News midriff of Larry Pearman of Lely UK from 200 yards instantly felling him green and putting a sudden end to what had been a very decent performance SOUTH WALES by Larry despite his (once) ridiculously high handicap. of up to 80% of the fees What great weather September has bought us hopefully Other noteworthy shots (apart from the one’s on Vic’s wagon) were by (up to a maximum of £350) you have finished your greens renovation and they are Mark Todd for nearest the pin and Adam White who had a monstrous healing well, the section will be sponsoring people to attend longest drive. BTME 2015. If you’re interested put your name forward to Results: 1 Nick Leach (Wildernesse) 32pts, 2 Rob Holland For further information visit Paul Handy or Steve Lloyd. (Corinthians) 31, 3 Kev Morris (Redlibbets) 29. Trade: Phil Hughes (Lister Please send your news and photos in Wilder) www.bigga.org.uk/education/ DEVON & CORNWALL Many thanks to the Etchinghill team for providing a very tidy, well The Devon and Cornwall section committee will be to your section correspondent or Steve presented, uphill challenge and to the caterers and clubhouse staff who funding-opportunities nominating two people for a free trip to BTME 2015 – one Castle ([email protected]) by the were very attentive. or call 01347 833800 (option 3) from the Devon & Cornwall Section and one from the South 10th of each month At Corinthians Golf Club we have just reconstructed all 9 greens to West & South Wales Region. restore the playing surfaces to a higher level. A well organised operation Anyone who is interested please call Cam McMorrin of removal of the top two inches followed by ameliorating about fifteen on 07557 330380, Devon and Cornwall BIGGA section tonnes of rootzone into each green followed by seeding before covering representative.

56 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 GI 57 GI13_FILLER_REFUND FEES_1.4.indd 1 13/06/2013 11:29 Around The Green PAUL WORSTER NORTH We had another very successful autumn outing at Inverurie Golf Club. 62 entered on the day and there was some very good scoring. The course was very well presented and in excellent Scotland condition. Well done to Derek Green and his team. Results: Nearest the pin at the 4th Jocky Urquhart Strathlene GC and the 10th was Steve Christie from the Paul Lawrie Golf Seal the deal Centre. The trade winner was Gary McCandless Rigby Taylor. this new technology will serve the The committee winner was Robert Patterson Royal Aberdeen. The Paul Worster, Course Manager at needs of the Club using simple, Apprentice trophy was won by Ryan Innes from Keith GC. The Minchinhampton Golf Club, advises you straightforward language. runner up in the Veterans was Richard Pirie from Newmachar GC • “If this old machine was a car and the winner was Billy Craig from Kirriemuir. exactly how to put your case forward when doing an average of 40mph – in 4th in the sweep Adam Lindsay Peterculter GC, 3 David Inglis new machinery is needed those 5000 hours it would have Hazelhead GC, 2 Derek Green from Inverurie GC and 1 Ryan 200,000 miles on the clock”. Contact your Section correspondent with news, Cooper from Hazelhead. Class 3 - 3 Dale Robertson Newmachar • “The superior operating speed events or anything else for Around the green... GC, 2 Roddy Kelly Moray GC, 1 Dylan Meinen. of the new machine makes it viable Class 2 – 3 Billy Craig from Kirriemuir GC, 2 David Inglis to cut every day ahead of play” - so Hazelhead GC, 1 Ryan Cooper from Hazelhead GC. Class 1 – 3 happier golfers, better greens and Dennis Grant Huntly GC, 2 Robert Patterson Royal Aberdeen, 1 no interference with staff making Derek Green Inverurie GC. Runner up in the scratch was Kevin golf here safer and more enjoyable. Tompson from Moray GC and the winner was Adam Lindsay • “The new machine has all Peterculter GC. the latest safety equipment as CENTRAL AYRSHIRE EAST NORTH WEST The winner of the Mark Main Trophy for the best nett Spring standard” - so happier staff, Gordon Moir Jim Paton Scott Corrigan Dale Robertson & Stuart Taylor and Autumn was Kevin Tompson from Moray GC. The winner of Gordon.moir@ jimp54@btinternet. scottcorrigan4@ Robert Patterson stuart.taylor@ happier insurance company and standrews.org.uk com aol.com daleturnberry@ glasgowgolfclub. the best nett on the day and also the best scratch both win free again happier players. btinternet.com / com grassman351@ entry into the Scottish Tournament at Portlethen GC in August • “This machine runs with only aol.com 2015. 10% of the volume of oil of the old Events Coming Up machine...” – no pollution risk, NORTH no waste disposals bills, quicker Stewart Brown has left Royal Aberdeen to take up the post of servicing. CENTRAL Course Manager at Elie Golf Club in Fife, we wish him all the best • And, most importantly – “This A reminder to everyone that the AGM is on 11 November at in his new post.The North Section also was invited to have a walk machine has a five-year warranty”. Auchterarder GC. The AGM will start at noon and afterwards there round the Trump course which proved very interesting and 45 Simple, strong and instantly will be a soup/sandwich lunch followed by a couple of seminars I was reminded recently how we are not dealing with industry people attended. understandable. and a presentation by the Jim Croxton and others from the BIGGA the humble lawnmower was experts on our committees. invented over a century ago So, that machine which has Step 3. You need a team. The day should finish by 3.30 and is free to members so we EAST in a garden shed by one Edwin 5000 hours on the clock, how comprehensive programme of hope to see a good attendance. More details will be emailed out Congratulations to David Drummond who has been appointed Budding. much exactly is it costing to run? replacement so that the club does nearer the time as they become available. Deputy Head Greenkeeper at Muirfield. By modern standards it’s a How much are you going to have not get into difficulty when all The section recently held our Willie Woods tournament over somewhat dangerous-looking to spend on it to keep it in reliable the equipment needs replacing NORTH Greenburn GC, the day was a great success with good weather contraption, although the running order for the coming at once. This shows you as the Next event is our AGM on 16 October at the Paul Lawrie Golf gracing us for a change in these parts. The winners on the day principles of its operation have not season? What is its current book leader – the person to whom the Centre, meeting 11am, cost £10 on the day. Two nines of golf, were Craig Hempseed (Mortonhall) and Robert King (Mortonhall) changed hugely in the intervening value? Club will come to look for advice on soup and sandwiches followed by the AGM. with a fantastic 63 nett better ball score, runners up were Duncan period. Happily, today’s equipment I don’t know about the first two, machinery matters. Submit charts Peddie (Dundas Parks) and Robbie Murdoch (Dundas Parks) with looks a lot more user friendly and but I can answer that last one – it and papers to show costs with EAST a 67 nett (on the better front 3 holes). Longest drive was won by Health & Safety compliant. will be written down to £50 on the clear objectives. AGM @ Old Mussleburgh in October. Alan Campbell (Silverknowes), nearest the pin winner was James I was talking with a fellow books. It’s not sensible to spend Do some pre-work. Do not Annual Xmas Soiree in December (Venue to be confirmed). Johnston (Greenburn GC) and the prize for nearest the pin in 2 at greenkeeper recently who was upwards of, say, £4000 to fit new expect to be able to simply plonk the last hole was Dougal Melville (Silverknowes). Well done to all unhappy that he’d “put in for cylinders, blades, hydraulic pipes, a piece of paper down, no matter involved and thanks go to Graeme King from (Hugh Kings) for a News a new machine” but the notion bearings, bushes and so on – (yep how eloquently written, in front very informative educational talk on sand selections. about the author had been rejected by the Club it soon mounts up and that’s of a Committee of ten and expect Remember to like our new Facebook page and feel free to post CENTRAL Management. probably a pre-VAT figure) on a things to go through on the nod. updates from around your course @ Bigga Scottish East. Anyone We had a higher than average turnout for our autumn outing So, how is it that seemingly every machine with a current book-value They will not. wishing to have news added or are willing to write a short topic on 9 September with 45 players attending. Our thanks to other week we read in various of just £50. You can lease a brand What you need to do well of interest for the GI Magazine then please get in touch. Again Dunfermline GC, their Secretary, Committee and all the staff industry publications of the latest new machine with a five-year beforehand is get someone, a reminder that if your contact details have changed please involved in making it such an enjoyable day and a big thanks as ‘new fleet deal’ in which a club rids warranty for that sort of money. preferably the Chairman of the feedback asap. always to all the Patrons who came along and supported us on the itself of a shed full of near-obsolete To make a credible case you Committee on your side – on the day and contributed massively to the raffle. equipment, and takes on a shiny need to do several things: same page, the same wavelength. The Committee have agreed to donate the £150 from the raffle Thanks to Patrons new fleet bristling with the latest Step One - Finances This can be a lengthy process but to the BIGGA benevolent fund. Principal prizes winners on a day technology, yet another club • You need to itemise everything once achieved gives an ally who of excellent scoring by most were: 1 Scratch Archie Dunn, 73 (bih) NORTH rejects the notion out of hand? the old machine needs or will likely can approach other committee from Davie Simpson. Best overall net, John Watson, 39pts (bih). Thanks to Neil Mitchell from Greentech who sponsored our Of course, no two golf clubs are need for it to run through another members outside of meetings Best in class 1 Allan Patterson 37. Best in class 2 Gordon McKie walk round the Trump course. the same, but the majority follow season – preferably in the form of a and convince them of the need to 39. Patrons winner, Kenny Liddell, 41. the same path - investing wisely Dealer quote. take action now – no matter how All the scores and pictures of the winners are on the Central and prudently in the golf course. • You need to provide options on seemingly financially unpalatable. Section and the Scottish Region websites. In the pairs competition, Welcome New Members Paul Worster is Course So, do not simply “put in for a Basically, planning for tomorrow a replacement and suggest how the Manager at Minchinhampton at the time of writing, Paul Armour and Kevin Webster are through while meeting the needs of today. options might meet the needs of Golf Club and a former replacement” without credible to the final where they will face either Scott Robertson and Stuart Allen Whellans, Course Manager, St Boswells Golf Club, BIGGA Chairman. He is facts and figures, homework So, how is the case made for said the club – e.g. Outright purchase, now a director of FEGGA Griffiths or Richard Jenkinson and Kevin Brunton. John Watson Edward McNaughton, Greenkeeper, Gullane Golf Club, David brand new kit? hire purchase, or Operators ease. and believes in strong and lobbying, and expect to be Denholm, Greenkeeper, Gullane Golf Club, Stephen Judge, Greenkeeper Associations successful. and Davie Cooper were the other beaten semi-finalists. I cannot overstate the Step 2. Other than straight preparing and equipping Congratulations to Stewart Brown on becoming the course Assistant Greenkeeper, Brodick Golf Club, Martin Scott, Assistant finances – make the case as to their greenkeeper members Do your research, prepare a importance of accurate, credible for management manager at Elie GC. We look forward to seeing Stewart at some of Greenkeeper, Hamilton Golf Club. and well-presented information, why would the club want to do compelling case and have courage our events. and, it is important to remember this. You need to demonstrate how in your convictions.

58 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 GI 59 Around The Green PAUL WORSTER NORTH We had another very successful autumn outing at Inverurie Golf Club. 62 entered on the day and there was some very good scoring. The course was very well presented and in excellent Scotland condition. Well done to Derek Green and his team. Results: Nearest the pin at the 4th Jocky Urquhart Strathlene GC and the 10th was Steve Christie from the Paul Lawrie Golf Seal the deal Centre. The trade winner was Gary McCandless Rigby Taylor. this new technology will serve the The committee winner was Robert Patterson Royal Aberdeen. The Paul Worster, Course Manager at needs of the Club using simple, Apprentice trophy was won by Ryan Innes from Keith GC. The Minchinhampton Golf Club, advises you straightforward language. runner up in the Veterans was Richard Pirie from Newmachar GC • “If this old machine was a car and the winner was Billy Craig from Kirriemuir. exactly how to put your case forward when doing an average of 40mph – in 4th in the sweep Adam Lindsay Peterculter GC, 3 David Inglis new machinery is needed those 5000 hours it would have Hazelhead GC, 2 Derek Green from Inverurie GC and 1 Ryan 200,000 miles on the clock”. Contact your Section correspondent with news, Cooper from Hazelhead. Class 3 - 3 Dale Robertson Newmachar • “The superior operating speed events or anything else for Around the green... GC, 2 Roddy Kelly Moray GC, 1 Dylan Meinen. of the new machine makes it viable Class 2 – 3 Billy Craig from Kirriemuir GC, 2 David Inglis to cut every day ahead of play” - so Hazelhead GC, 1 Ryan Cooper from Hazelhead GC. Class 1 – 3 happier golfers, better greens and Dennis Grant Huntly GC, 2 Robert Patterson Royal Aberdeen, 1 no interference with staff making Derek Green Inverurie GC. Runner up in the scratch was Kevin golf here safer and more enjoyable. Tompson from Moray GC and the winner was Adam Lindsay • “The new machine has all Peterculter GC. the latest safety equipment as CENTRAL AYRSHIRE EAST NORTH WEST The winner of the Mark Main Trophy for the best nett Spring standard” - so happier staff, Gordon Moir Jim Paton Scott Corrigan Dale Robertson & Stuart Taylor and Autumn was Kevin Tompson from Moray GC. The winner of Gordon.moir@ jimp54@btinternet. scottcorrigan4@ Robert Patterson stuart.taylor@ happier insurance company and standrews.org.uk com aol.com daleturnberry@ glasgowgolfclub. the best nett on the day and also the best scratch both win free again happier players. btinternet.com / com grassman351@ entry into the Scottish Tournament at Portlethen GC in August • “This machine runs with only aol.com 2015. 10% of the volume of oil of the old Events Coming Up machine...” – no pollution risk, NORTH no waste disposals bills, quicker Stewart Brown has left Royal Aberdeen to take up the post of servicing. CENTRAL Course Manager at Elie Golf Club in Fife, we wish him all the best • And, most importantly – “This A reminder to everyone that the AGM is on 11 November at in his new post.The North Section also was invited to have a walk machine has a five-year warranty”. Auchterarder GC. The AGM will start at noon and afterwards there round the Trump course which proved very interesting and 45 Simple, strong and instantly will be a soup/sandwich lunch followed by a couple of seminars I was reminded recently how we are not dealing with industry people attended. understandable. and a presentation by the Jim Croxton and others from the BIGGA the humble lawnmower was experts on our committees. invented over a century ago So, that machine which has Step 3. You need a team. The day should finish by 3.30 and is free to members so we EAST in a garden shed by one Edwin 5000 hours on the clock, how comprehensive programme of hope to see a good attendance. More details will be emailed out Congratulations to David Drummond who has been appointed Budding. much exactly is it costing to run? replacement so that the club does nearer the time as they become available. Deputy Head Greenkeeper at Muirfield. By modern standards it’s a How much are you going to have not get into difficulty when all The section recently held our Willie Woods tournament over somewhat dangerous-looking to spend on it to keep it in reliable the equipment needs replacing NORTH Greenburn GC, the day was a great success with good weather contraption, although the running order for the coming at once. This shows you as the Next event is our AGM on 16 October at the Paul Lawrie Golf gracing us for a change in these parts. The winners on the day principles of its operation have not season? What is its current book leader – the person to whom the Centre, meeting 11am, cost £10 on the day. Two nines of golf, were Craig Hempseed (Mortonhall) and Robert King (Mortonhall) changed hugely in the intervening value? Club will come to look for advice on soup and sandwiches followed by the AGM. with a fantastic 63 nett better ball score, runners up were Duncan period. Happily, today’s equipment I don’t know about the first two, machinery matters. Submit charts Peddie (Dundas Parks) and Robbie Murdoch (Dundas Parks) with looks a lot more user friendly and but I can answer that last one – it and papers to show costs with EAST a 67 nett (on the better front 3 holes). Longest drive was won by Health & Safety compliant. will be written down to £50 on the clear objectives. AGM @ Old Mussleburgh in October. Alan Campbell (Silverknowes), nearest the pin winner was James I was talking with a fellow books. It’s not sensible to spend Do some pre-work. Do not Annual Xmas Soiree in December (Venue to be confirmed). Johnston (Greenburn GC) and the prize for nearest the pin in 2 at greenkeeper recently who was upwards of, say, £4000 to fit new expect to be able to simply plonk the last hole was Dougal Melville (Silverknowes). Well done to all unhappy that he’d “put in for cylinders, blades, hydraulic pipes, a piece of paper down, no matter involved and thanks go to Graeme King from (Hugh Kings) for a News a new machine” but the notion bearings, bushes and so on – (yep how eloquently written, in front very informative educational talk on sand selections. about the author had been rejected by the Club it soon mounts up and that’s of a Committee of ten and expect Remember to like our new Facebook page and feel free to post CENTRAL Management. probably a pre-VAT figure) on a things to go through on the nod. updates from around your course @ Bigga Scottish East. Anyone We had a higher than average turnout for our autumn outing So, how is it that seemingly every machine with a current book-value They will not. wishing to have news added or are willing to write a short topic on 9 September with 45 players attending. Our thanks to other week we read in various of just £50. You can lease a brand What you need to do well of interest for the GI Magazine then please get in touch. Again Dunfermline GC, their Secretary, Committee and all the staff industry publications of the latest new machine with a five-year beforehand is get someone, a reminder that if your contact details have changed please involved in making it such an enjoyable day and a big thanks as ‘new fleet deal’ in which a club rids warranty for that sort of money. preferably the Chairman of the feedback asap. always to all the Patrons who came along and supported us on the itself of a shed full of near-obsolete To make a credible case you Committee on your side – on the day and contributed massively to the raffle. equipment, and takes on a shiny need to do several things: same page, the same wavelength. The Committee have agreed to donate the £150 from the raffle Thanks to Patrons new fleet bristling with the latest Step One - Finances This can be a lengthy process but to the BIGGA benevolent fund. Principal prizes winners on a day technology, yet another club • You need to itemise everything once achieved gives an ally who of excellent scoring by most were: 1 Scratch Archie Dunn, 73 (bih) NORTH rejects the notion out of hand? the old machine needs or will likely can approach other committee from Davie Simpson. Best overall net, John Watson, 39pts (bih). Thanks to Neil Mitchell from Greentech who sponsored our Of course, no two golf clubs are need for it to run through another members outside of meetings Best in class 1 Allan Patterson 37. Best in class 2 Gordon McKie walk round the Trump course. the same, but the majority follow season – preferably in the form of a and convince them of the need to 39. Patrons winner, Kenny Liddell, 41. the same path - investing wisely Dealer quote. take action now – no matter how All the scores and pictures of the winners are on the Central and prudently in the golf course. • You need to provide options on seemingly financially unpalatable. Section and the Scottish Region websites. In the pairs competition, Welcome New Members Paul Worster is Course So, do not simply “put in for a Basically, planning for tomorrow a replacement and suggest how the Manager at Minchinhampton at the time of writing, Paul Armour and Kevin Webster are through while meeting the needs of today. options might meet the needs of Golf Club and a former replacement” without credible to the final where they will face either Scott Robertson and Stuart Allen Whellans, Course Manager, St Boswells Golf Club, BIGGA Chairman. He is facts and figures, homework So, how is the case made for said the club – e.g. Outright purchase, now a director of FEGGA Griffiths or Richard Jenkinson and Kevin Brunton. John Watson Edward McNaughton, Greenkeeper, Gullane Golf Club, David brand new kit? hire purchase, or Operators ease. and believes in strong and lobbying, and expect to be Denholm, Greenkeeper, Gullane Golf Club, Stephen Judge, Greenkeeper Associations successful. and Davie Cooper were the other beaten semi-finalists. I cannot overstate the Step 2. Other than straight preparing and equipping Congratulations to Stewart Brown on becoming the course Assistant Greenkeeper, Brodick Golf Club, Martin Scott, Assistant finances – make the case as to their greenkeeper members Do your research, prepare a importance of accurate, credible for management manager at Elie GC. We look forward to seeing Stewart at some of Greenkeeper, Hamilton Golf Club. and well-presented information, why would the club want to do compelling case and have courage our events. and, it is important to remember this. You need to demonstrate how in your convictions.

58 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 GI 59 s Trainin er g p C e o Greenkeepers Training e m

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Q d why seminars and workshops for greenkeepers and employers u re ality Assu are so important to the philosophy of sharing best practice

Howard Swan has, for many years, presented at numerous seminars, workshops and conferences both at home and abroad. Whilst best known as a Golf Course Architect he has a passion to share his vast knowledge and experience of golf course design and renovation projects which he has been involved in globally. In more recent years, his son Wil- liam has become the third genera- tion of Swans in the architectural profession and is continuing the tradition of sharing best practice with all who attend GTC workshops which are focused on employers – Owners, Officers, Club and Course Managers/Head Greenkeepers - and have proved very popular. The GTC will again be hosting workshops during BTME 2015 where Swan Golf Designs will again feature with plans also afoot to host are those which are not led by the it to maximum effect. Essentially, more workshops regionally before golf course architect as we might therefore, becoming the education January and into spring 2015. get carried away and run away with process from which we all learn. Howard takes up the story of SGD the excitement of what might be “The best projects in our experi- being involved in quality education conceived on the golf course. The GTC is funded by: ence over 45 years of working in of greenkeepers and employers “In most projects the team the industry have come where all with the offer to assist any Quality needs to consist of the client – a of those are realised. All members Assured Centre or BIGGA Region golf club chairman, chairman of of the team rely upon each other, or Section. green, a green committee, a golf learn from each other, and maxi- He said: “We have long held the club manager - who has a vision mise their efforts with a singular belief that if anyone is to learn any- of what it wants from the project in purpose to succeed. thing about anything in life then five or ten years’ time and an intent “There is, without doubt, a it must come from three things – to achieve it in sensible, realisable universal requirement to adopt the Information, Communication and steps – and who may lead the team. GTC’s philosophy of allowing all Education…or ‘ICE’. They should be supported by the levels of greenkeepers AND employ- “That essential learning process technical input and expertise of ers access to both formal and infor- comes from taking information, the golf course architect, who may mal education and training. On the no matter at what level it may be project manage it throughout its job training and online learning imparted by others, and absorbing various stages, by those who might has given many an opportunity to it into your memory for the future. specialise in irrigation technology, Contact Details further their knowledge without Having a good system of commu- in agronomy and of course the having to leave their workplace. nication helps greatly to facilitate greenkeeping team. David F. Golding This is one option we see as having GTC Education Director that. “The relationships between each and Standards Director, great benefits to individuals and “In our own field of golf course of the team members is vitally Greenkeeper Training the business as a whole. design and development, or more important to the success of that 01347 838640 “It’s this philosophy we have realistically in these days of the project and the understanding [email protected] been pleased to bring to the GTC indifferent state of the golf course which is developed between them GTC in conceiving and contributing to Aldwark Manor market redesign and redevelop- can yield the outcome everybody Near Alne their workshop programme with ment, we work with a large number wishes for. York our fellow QA training providers. YO61 1UF of individuals in any one project “Those relationships are only “BTME 2015 now beckons with and the success of that project is developed by sharing information, www.the-gtc.co.uk two further workshops focusing www.greenkeepertraining.com essentially reliant upon that team by communicating clearly and well, on bunkering and the safety of golf performing as well as it can. Each by understanding each other’s courses, and we look forward to individual contributes their bit. position in taking the information those taking opportunities to put You can follow the GTC on “We often say the best projects by that communication and using Twitter @TheOfficialGTC the ‘ICE’ theory into practice.”

60 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd s Trainin er g p C e o Greenkeepers Training e m

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e Committee r e G GTC Quality Assured Training Provider Swan Golf Designs on

Q d why seminars and workshops for greenkeepers and employers u re ality Assu are so important to the philosophy of sharing best practice

Howard Swan has, for many years, presented at numerous seminars, workshops and conferences both at home and abroad. Whilst best known as a Golf Course Architect he has a passion to share his vast knowledge and experience of golf course design and renovation projects which he has been involved in globally. In more recent years, his son Wil- liam has become the third genera- tion of Swans in the architectural profession and is continuing the tradition of sharing best practice with all who attend GTC workshops which are focused on employers – Owners, Officers, Club and Course Managers/Head Greenkeepers - and have proved very popular. The GTC will again be hosting workshops during BTME 2015 where Swan Golf Designs will again feature with plans also afoot to host are those which are not led by the it to maximum effect. Essentially, more workshops regionally before golf course architect as we might therefore, becoming the education January and into spring 2015. get carried away and run away with process from which we all learn. Howard takes up the story of SGD the excitement of what might be “The best projects in our experi- being involved in quality education conceived on the golf course. The GTC is funded by: ence over 45 years of working in of greenkeepers and employers “In most projects the team the industry have come where all with the offer to assist any Quality needs to consist of the client – a of those are realised. All members Assured Centre or BIGGA Region golf club chairman, chairman of of the team rely upon each other, or Section. green, a green committee, a golf learn from each other, and maxi- He said: “We have long held the club manager - who has a vision mise their efforts with a singular belief that if anyone is to learn any- of what it wants from the project in purpose to succeed. thing about anything in life then five or ten years’ time and an intent “There is, without doubt, a it must come from three things – to achieve it in sensible, realisable universal requirement to adopt the Information, Communication and steps – and who may lead the team. GTC’s philosophy of allowing all Education…or ‘ICE’. They should be supported by the levels of greenkeepers AND employ- “That essential learning process technical input and expertise of ers access to both formal and infor- comes from taking information, the golf course architect, who may mal education and training. On the no matter at what level it may be project manage it throughout its job training and online learning imparted by others, and absorbing various stages, by those who might has given many an opportunity to it into your memory for the future. specialise in irrigation technology, Contact Details further their knowledge without Having a good system of commu- in agronomy and of course the having to leave their workplace. nication helps greatly to facilitate greenkeeping team. David F. Golding This is one option we see as having GTC Education Director that. “The relationships between each and Standards Director, great benefits to individuals and “In our own field of golf course of the team members is vitally Greenkeeper Training the business as a whole. design and development, or more important to the success of that 01347 838640 “It’s this philosophy we have realistically in these days of the project and the understanding [email protected] been pleased to bring to the GTC indifferent state of the golf course which is developed between them GTC in conceiving and contributing to Aldwark Manor market redesign and redevelop- can yield the outcome everybody Near Alne their workshop programme with ment, we work with a large number wishes for. York our fellow QA training providers. YO61 1UF of individuals in any one project “Those relationships are only “BTME 2015 now beckons with and the success of that project is developed by sharing information, www.the-gtc.co.uk two further workshops focusing www.greenkeepertraining.com essentially reliant upon that team by communicating clearly and well, on bunkering and the safety of golf performing as well as it can. Each by understanding each other’s courses, and we look forward to individual contributes their bit. position in taking the information those taking opportunities to put You can follow the GTC on “We often say the best projects by that communication and using Twitter @TheOfficialGTC the ‘ICE’ theory into practice.”

60 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd BUNKER CONSTRUCTION DRAINAGE IDRRIGRAINAATIGEON TREE MOVING Tree Spade & Golf Course Drainage Telehandler Hire Golf Course Drainage Specialist Survey / Design / Installation / Greens / BUYERS’ GUIDE Fairways / Bunkers / Complete Courses For fast and friendly UK To advertise contact James on 01347 833 832 Plastic Pipe / Turfdry Drainage System service call: For fast and friendly Nationwide Service Melvyn Taylor The natural pathway solution Contact Melvyn Taylor: 01283 551417 on 01283 551417 or email [email protected] 07836 259133 / [email protected] 01344 621654 or 07836 259133 www.turfdry.com www.theblinder.com www.turfdry.com CATEGORIES... AERATION / AGRONOMY / ALL WEATHER SURFACES / ANTI SLIP / BUNKER / CONSTRUCTION / CLOTHING FOOTWEAR / COMPACT TRACTORS / CONSTRUCTION / DRAINAGE / HEDGES/TREES / IRRIGATION 01603 628251 / IRRIGATION CONSULTANTS / LAKE CONSTRUCTION LINERS / MACHINERY WANTED / RUBBER CRUMB / SOIL CONSTRUCTION www.benburgess.co.uk FOOD WEB / TOP DRESSING / TREE MOVING / TREE CLEARANCE / TURF USED MACHINERY / VERTIDRAINING / WASTE / WASHWATER TREATMENT TURF MACHINERY WANTED Drainage experts AGRONOMY Design & installation BANKS AMENITY PRODUCTS LTD Primary pipe systems The Tines Shop for Sand slitting good value, high quality Gravel banding Tines & Bedknives Call 01722 716361 Find a broad range of Tines www.mjabbott.co.uk and Bedknives online from The Grass Group Delivered to your door FLAGS www.tines-shop.co.uk Tel: 01638 720123 Get ready for the green with... TOP DRESSINGS Golf construction experts Golf Pin Flags ALL WEATHER SURFACES Golf course construction Flagpoles Remodelling & renovation

Grow in & maintenance Sewn Flags & FOR ALL YOUR BULK SUPPLIES Est. 1988 Artificial surfaces much more NATIONWIDE DELIVERIES Call 01722 716361 01858 464346 / 433003 All-Weather Surfaces For Your Golf Club call now on 01480 862 352 www.banksamenity.co.uk www.mjabbott.co.uk * Pathways * Golf Mats or visit flags.co.uk * Tees * Fairway Mats * Putting Greens * Accessories

Ensure the course is playable all year round M.Downes IRRIGATION Banks Amenity Products Ltd is a family-run Cirencester, Ealing and Gerrards Cross Golf Earthworks business, with over 50 years experience Clubs • Golf Course Construction Services specialising in the supply of quality Full bunker change at Forest of Arden and • Green and Tee Reconstruction USED MACHINERY materials to the Sports Turf market. Hankley Common Golf Clubs • Lakes and Reservoirs • Cart Paths One of our more recent projects and one Bunker refurbishment at Ashridge, • Bunker Remodelling • Drainage which we are particularly proud of is our Burhill and Wildernesse Golf Clubs. • Lakes and Reservoirs

involvement with the supply of a USGA Our comprehensive range of products Tel: 01254 831666 Fax: 01254 831066 07753 856510 01829 781767 Email: [email protected] Fendress(TM) Rootzone and Bunker Sand includes, aggregates, bark, divot mix/tees [email protected] for the re-construction of the JH Taylor dressing, fairway dressing, growing media, www.verdesports.com Course at Royal Mid Surrey Golf Club. pathway material, play sand, rock salt, Having previously worked on the first rootzone for construction and maintenance, DRAINAGE phase reconstruction of the back nine silica sand, soil, loam and top dressing GI_JULY13_BG_MDOWNES_4x1.indd 1 26/06/2013 13:23 greens in 2009 and still working under the including our renowned Fendress(TM) WASTE/WASHWATER close supervision of Gavin Kinsella Course range. Pioneering the development and TREATMENT Manager, we supplied approximately 3000 As an established company we are production of high quality tonnes of product within an eight week time committed to offering our customers peace sand-based products for over 150 years frame in July/August 2013. of mind, value for money and doing what Each 500 tonne batch of rootzone was we say we’re going to do. We are fast, tested to ensure quality and consistency of competitive and available to take your call – the finished product. The course reopened no automated telephone service or voicemail Irrigation experts on 29 June 2014 with fantastic feedback here – just an efficient, reliable service you from the membership. can count on time and time again. So make Design & installation Maintenance & support that call today, sit back, relax and leave the Online shop for spares Contact Sharon Morris on OTHER RECENT PROJECTS INCLUDE: rest to us! Water storage reservoirs 07932342044 or email 9 hole par 3 Course at Beedles Lake Golf For further information please visit our [email protected] Club, Leicester; New Chipping Greens at website: www.banksamenity.co.uk. Call 01722 716361 www.mjabbott.co.uk www.mansfield-sand.co.uk

HB_14_MANSFIELD SANDS_1.4.indd 1 21/10/2013 12:11

62 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 GI 63 BUNKER CONSTRUCTION DRAINAGE IDRRIGRAINAATIGEON TREE MOVING Tree Spade & Golf Course Drainage Telehandler Hire Golf Course Drainage Specialist Survey / Design / Installation / Greens / BUYERS’ GUIDE Fairways / Bunkers / Complete Courses For fast and friendly UK To advertise contact James on 01347 833 832 Plastic Pipe / Turfdry Drainage System service call: For fast and friendly Nationwide Service Melvyn Taylor The natural pathway solution Contact Melvyn Taylor: 01283 551417 on 01283 551417 or email [email protected] 07836 259133 / [email protected] 01344 621654 or 07836 259133 www.turfdry.com www.theblinder.com www.turfdry.com CATEGORIES... AERATION / AGRONOMY / ALL WEATHER SURFACES / ANTI SLIP / BUNKER / CONSTRUCTION / CLOTHING FOOTWEAR / COMPACT TRACTORS / CONSTRUCTION / DRAINAGE / HEDGES/TREES / IRRIGATION 01603 628251 / IRRIGATION CONSULTANTS / LAKE CONSTRUCTION LINERS / MACHINERY WANTED / RUBBER CRUMB / SOIL CONSTRUCTION www.benburgess.co.uk FOOD WEB / TOP DRESSING / TREE MOVING / TREE CLEARANCE / TURF USED MACHINERY / VERTIDRAINING / WASTE / WASHWATER TREATMENT TURF MACHINERY WANTED Drainage experts AGRONOMY Design & installation BANKS AMENITY PRODUCTS LTD Primary pipe systems The Tines Shop for Sand slitting good value, high quality Gravel banding Tines & Bedknives Call 01722 716361 Find a broad range of Tines www.mjabbott.co.uk and Bedknives online from The Grass Group Delivered to your door FLAGS www.tines-shop.co.uk Tel: 01638 720123 Get ready for the green with... TOP DRESSINGS Golf construction experts Golf Pin Flags ALL WEATHER SURFACES Golf course construction Flagpoles Remodelling & renovation

Grow in & maintenance Sewn Flags & FOR ALL YOUR BULK SUPPLIES Est. 1988 Artificial surfaces much more NATIONWIDE DELIVERIES Call 01722 716361 01858 464346 / 433003 All-Weather Surfaces For Your Golf Club call now on 01480 862 352 www.banksamenity.co.uk www.mjabbott.co.uk * Pathways * Golf Mats or visit flags.co.uk * Tees * Fairway Mats * Putting Greens * Accessories

Ensure the course is playable all year round M.Downes IRRIGATION Banks Amenity Products Ltd is a family-run Cirencester, Ealing and Gerrards Cross Golf Earthworks business, with over 50 years experience Clubs • Golf Course Construction Services specialising in the supply of quality Full bunker change at Forest of Arden and • Green and Tee Reconstruction USED MACHINERY materials to the Sports Turf market. Hankley Common Golf Clubs • Lakes and Reservoirs • Cart Paths One of our more recent projects and one Bunker refurbishment at Ashridge, • Bunker Remodelling • Drainage which we are particularly proud of is our Burhill and Wildernesse Golf Clubs. • Lakes and Reservoirs

involvement with the supply of a USGA Our comprehensive range of products Tel: 01254 831666 Fax: 01254 831066 07753 856510 01829 781767 Email: [email protected] Fendress(TM) Rootzone and Bunker Sand includes, aggregates, bark, divot mix/tees [email protected] for the re-construction of the JH Taylor dressing, fairway dressing, growing media, www.verdesports.com Course at Royal Mid Surrey Golf Club. pathway material, play sand, rock salt, Having previously worked on the first rootzone for construction and maintenance, DRAINAGE phase reconstruction of the back nine silica sand, soil, loam and top dressing GI_JULY13_BG_MDOWNES_4x1.indd 1 26/06/2013 13:23 greens in 2009 and still working under the including our renowned Fendress(TM) WASTE/WASHWATER close supervision of Gavin Kinsella Course range. Pioneering the development and TREATMENT Manager, we supplied approximately 3000 As an established company we are production of high quality tonnes of product within an eight week time committed to offering our customers peace sand-based products for over 150 years frame in July/August 2013. of mind, value for money and doing what Each 500 tonne batch of rootzone was we say we’re going to do. We are fast, tested to ensure quality and consistency of competitive and available to take your call – the finished product. The course reopened no automated telephone service or voicemail Irrigation experts on 29 June 2014 with fantastic feedback here – just an efficient, reliable service you from the membership. can count on time and time again. So make Design & installation Maintenance & support that call today, sit back, relax and leave the Online shop for spares Contact Sharon Morris on OTHER RECENT PROJECTS INCLUDE: rest to us! Water storage reservoirs 07932342044 or email 9 hole par 3 Course at Beedles Lake Golf For further information please visit our [email protected] Club, Leicester; New Chipping Greens at website: www.banksamenity.co.uk. Call 01722 716361 www.mjabbott.co.uk www.mansfield-sand.co.uk

HB_14_MANSFIELD SANDS_1.4.indd 1 21/10/2013 12:11

62 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 GI 63 Recruitment

Course Manager, Burghill Valley Golf Club, Hereford Burghill Valley Golf Club is an 18- hole parkland course situated just north of the Saffron Walden Golf Club City of Hereford. A course manager is required who can maintain the course at the very high level it is presently at and lead a team. The Course Manager reports Require a to the Club Manager. Qualified Greenkeeper The successful candidate will: • Have previous experience as either Course Manager, Head Green Keeper or Applicants must be qualified to NVQ level 2 or equivalent deputy. Tyrifjord Golf Klubb is situated approx. 35km west of Oslo, and have 2 years sports turf maintenance experience. • Be qualified to a minimum of NVQ Level 2 in green keeping. Hartley Wintney Golf Club Our 18 hole private members club was constructed in 1994 and • Have a chainsaw certificate and spraying qualifications PA1, 2 and 6a Our hard working team pride themselves on presenting a the course is located on a beautiful Island on Lake Tyrifjord. • Be able to plan work and manage and motivate a team. Assistant Greenkeeper fine course and the successful candidate will be professionally • Have a working knowledge of greens machinery and irrigation equipment, driven to achieve the same standards of workmanship. We are currently seeking a highly motivated individual to join including maintenance and repair. HWGC is a delightful club situated on the Hampshire/ our maintenance team in the following position: • Have experience in Health and Safety regulations. Berkshire border. We are looking to recruit an Assistant Accommodation may be available. Please apply in writing • Be capable of working to a budget and dealing with all suppliers. Greenkeeper to join our skilled and experienced team on a with CV to Ray Goodsall Course Manager, Saffron Walden Applications must be in writing, including a full CV and sent to: full time basis. The successful candidate will be involved in SEASONAL ASSISTANT GREENKEEPER N. A Hitchings Esq, Club Manager, Burghill Valley Golf Club, Tillington Road Golf club, Windmill Hill, Saffron Walden, Essex CB10 1BX the daily presentation of the course, project work and other Hereford, HR4 7RW You will be suitably qualified in the practicalities of producing a aspects of grounds maintenance to ensure the course is very high standard of presentation throughout the golf course. You presented to a consistently high level. They should also be will be proficient with the use of modern maintenance equipment enthusiastic and self-motivated. including tractor driving and shall possess the ability to work on your own initiative but within a team role. Applicants shall preferably Working under the direction of the Course Manager, you be Qualified to NVQ level 2, have a minimum of 2 years working Advertise your will be expected to contribute to the ongoing development of experience on a golf course or fine turf , have relevant spraying our course, which continues to enjoy significant investment certificates or a chainsaw certificate. Knowledge of automatic recruitment here in machinery, personnel and construction work. irrigation systems would be advantageous. Preferably you will already have green-keeping experience The Royal Automobile Club and a sports turf qualification. Set in beautiful countryside near Epsom Downs, this private members club Employment to commence April/May 2014 ... and online Salary Negotiable provides the highest standards of facilities including fine dining, accommodation, Accommodation can be discussed. for one month golf and sporting facilities. An attractive package will be offered to the successful applicant. If you would like the opportunity to join our team the please ASSISTANT GREENKEEPER: For further information please call Ian Ross 0047 92264543 at www.bigga.org.uk/careers apply via e-mail or post to include both CV and cover letter to Duties include general golf course maintenance –mowing, divoting and water from £595+vat for an 1/8 advert the Course Manager: systems. 45 hours per week, 5am start (summer); 35 hours per week, 7am start If you are interested in the above position then please Matthew Rolls, Course Manager, Hartley Wintney Golf Club (winter), weekend work included. NVQ2 qualified with experience and used to apply in writing by 31.11.14 enclosing your c.v. and marking it working in a large team. Contact Jill Rodham on Ltd, London Road, Hartley Wintney, HOOK, RG27 8PT We offer a competitive salary and benefits package, including uniform, meals on CONFIDENTIAL To: Ian Ross, Head Greenkeeper, Tyrifjord GK, [email protected] duty, contributory pension and life assurance schemes. Storøya, 3531 Krokkleiva, Norway 01347 833 812 Please send your CV to [email protected]

Retail Sales Manager Grounds Maintenance Sector Assistant Greenkeeper The Scope Chippenham Golf Club Lely (UK) Limited is the exclusive distributor for the UK and Ireland for the Chippenham Golf Club has undergone extensive changes world leading range of Toro professional turf maintenance equipment and irrigation systems as well as the TYM brand of tractors over the past few years, with new holes and a new clubhouse Our blend of product offering is well suited to a diverse range of customers having been built. The objective over coming years is to further SUNNINGDALE GOLF CLUB in the fine turf sports and grounds maintenance sectors including landscape enhance the course through further investment in the golf contractors and local authorities. course and maintenance facility. Head Greenkeeper The Role Working under instruction from the Course Manager, the (New Course designed by Harry Colt - 1923) The Turf division is looking to recruit a Retail Sales Manager, ideally East ideal candidate will be hard working, have an eye for detail and Anglia based to support the sales team in promoting and selling our turf be able to become an integral part of a small team. Sunningdale Golf Club wishes to recruit a Head Greenkeeper for the New Sunningdale is dedicated to achieving truly World Class standards: maintenance equipment brands specifically to end user customers within the Course to manage the maintenance and development of the Course which • Venue for the Senior Open Championship 2015 local authority, landscape contractor and other sports and amenity grounds NVQ level 2 is essential and spraying and chainsaw is ranked 53 in the world (Golf Course Architecture Magazine). maintenance providers in Essex, Cambridgeshire, Norfolk , North East • Venue for the annual Sunningdale Foursomes Tournament played since 1934 certificates would be an advantage. Reporting to the Courses & Estate Manager, applicants should be self London and East Hertfordshire. motivated, committed and hardworking as well as having the necessary • Old Course ranked at No 22 in the world (Golf Course Architecture Magazine) Reporting to the Regional Sales Manager, the successful candidate The ideal candidate will be looking to progress themselves experience and ability to lead a team in raising and maintaining the world • Investors in People Gold Award will have a proven track record in negotiating skills and selling to end user in the industry, and further training will be available to the right class standards required at the Club. customers within the grounds maintenance sector. Experience is required in person. Active involvement in CPD would be an advantage. negotiating with key account customers and buying groups Please apply in writing or email with full CV and covering letter to: Candidates will be highly motivated professionals with a pro- active Salary negotiable dependant on experience and The candidate should have :- Clare Livingston, Administration & HR Manager, Sunningdale Golf Club approach and enjoy working as part of a team. You will need to display good • Minimum of 5 years’ golf course management experience Ridgemount Road, Sunningdale, Berks SL5 9RR oral and written communication skills and be able to create and maintain qualifications. • Links or heathland experience preferred but not essential By email to [email protected] strong working relationships at all levels including good time management, Please apply with your CV to coursemanager. presentation and reporting skills. • Qualified to NVQ 3 or equivalent preferred Closing date for Applications 20th October, 2014 [email protected] • Spraying certificates PA1, 2 & 6 www.sunningdale-golfclub.co.uk Please forward your CV and covering letter including current salary or The Course Manager, Chippenham Golf Club, package to [email protected] • Strong supervisory and communication skills Closing date for applications is 31st October 2014 Malmesbury Road, Chippenham, Wiltshire. SN15 5LT

64 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 GI 65 Recruitment

Course Manager, Burghill Valley Golf Club, Hereford Burghill Valley Golf Club is an 18- hole parkland course situated just north of the Saffron Walden Golf Club City of Hereford. A course manager is required who can maintain the course at the very high level it is presently at and lead a team. The Course Manager reports Require a to the Club Manager. Qualified Greenkeeper The successful candidate will: • Have previous experience as either Course Manager, Head Green Keeper or Applicants must be qualified to NVQ level 2 or equivalent deputy. Tyrifjord Golf Klubb is situated approx. 35km west of Oslo, and have 2 years sports turf maintenance experience. • Be qualified to a minimum of NVQ Level 2 in green keeping. Hartley Wintney Golf Club Our 18 hole private members club was constructed in 1994 and • Have a chainsaw certificate and spraying qualifications PA1, 2 and 6a Our hard working team pride themselves on presenting a the course is located on a beautiful Island on Lake Tyrifjord. • Be able to plan work and manage and motivate a team. Assistant Greenkeeper fine course and the successful candidate will be professionally • Have a working knowledge of greens machinery and irrigation equipment, driven to achieve the same standards of workmanship. We are currently seeking a highly motivated individual to join including maintenance and repair. HWGC is a delightful club situated on the Hampshire/ our maintenance team in the following position: • Have experience in Health and Safety regulations. Berkshire border. We are looking to recruit an Assistant Accommodation may be available. Please apply in writing • Be capable of working to a budget and dealing with all suppliers. Greenkeeper to join our skilled and experienced team on a with CV to Ray Goodsall Course Manager, Saffron Walden Applications must be in writing, including a full CV and sent to: full time basis. The successful candidate will be involved in SEASONAL ASSISTANT GREENKEEPER N. A Hitchings Esq, Club Manager, Burghill Valley Golf Club, Tillington Road Golf club, Windmill Hill, Saffron Walden, Essex CB10 1BX the daily presentation of the course, project work and other Hereford, HR4 7RW You will be suitably qualified in the practicalities of producing a aspects of grounds maintenance to ensure the course is very high standard of presentation throughout the golf course. You presented to a consistently high level. They should also be will be proficient with the use of modern maintenance equipment enthusiastic and self-motivated. including tractor driving and shall possess the ability to work on your own initiative but within a team role. Applicants shall preferably Working under the direction of the Course Manager, you be Qualified to NVQ level 2, have a minimum of 2 years working Advertise your will be expected to contribute to the ongoing development of experience on a golf course or fine turf , have relevant spraying our course, which continues to enjoy significant investment certificates or a chainsaw certificate. Knowledge of automatic recruitment here in machinery, personnel and construction work. irrigation systems would be advantageous. Preferably you will already have green-keeping experience The Royal Automobile Club and a sports turf qualification. Set in beautiful countryside near Epsom Downs, this private members club Employment to commence April/May 2014 ... and online Salary Negotiable provides the highest standards of facilities including fine dining, accommodation, Accommodation can be discussed. for one month golf and sporting facilities. An attractive package will be offered to the successful applicant. If you would like the opportunity to join our team the please ASSISTANT GREENKEEPER: For further information please call Ian Ross 0047 92264543 at www.bigga.org.uk/careers apply via e-mail or post to include both CV and cover letter to Duties include general golf course maintenance –mowing, divoting and water from £595+vat for an 1/8 advert the Course Manager: systems. 45 hours per week, 5am start (summer); 35 hours per week, 7am start If you are interested in the above position then please Matthew Rolls, Course Manager, Hartley Wintney Golf Club (winter), weekend work included. NVQ2 qualified with experience and used to apply in writing by 31.11.14 enclosing your c.v. and marking it working in a large team. Contact Jill Rodham on Ltd, London Road, Hartley Wintney, HOOK, RG27 8PT We offer a competitive salary and benefits package, including uniform, meals on CONFIDENTIAL To: Ian Ross, Head Greenkeeper, Tyrifjord GK, [email protected] duty, contributory pension and life assurance schemes. Storøya, 3531 Krokkleiva, Norway 01347 833 812 Please send your CV to [email protected]

Retail Sales Manager Grounds Maintenance Sector Assistant Greenkeeper The Scope Chippenham Golf Club Lely (UK) Limited is the exclusive distributor for the UK and Ireland for the Chippenham Golf Club has undergone extensive changes world leading range of Toro professional turf maintenance equipment and irrigation systems as well as the TYM brand of tractors over the past few years, with new holes and a new clubhouse Our blend of product offering is well suited to a diverse range of customers having been built. The objective over coming years is to further SUNNINGDALE GOLF CLUB in the fine turf sports and grounds maintenance sectors including landscape enhance the course through further investment in the golf contractors and local authorities. course and maintenance facility. Head Greenkeeper The Role Working under instruction from the Course Manager, the (New Course designed by Harry Colt - 1923) The Turf division is looking to recruit a Retail Sales Manager, ideally East ideal candidate will be hard working, have an eye for detail and Anglia based to support the sales team in promoting and selling our turf be able to become an integral part of a small team. Sunningdale Golf Club wishes to recruit a Head Greenkeeper for the New Sunningdale is dedicated to achieving truly World Class standards: maintenance equipment brands specifically to end user customers within the Course to manage the maintenance and development of the Course which • Venue for the Senior Open Championship 2015 local authority, landscape contractor and other sports and amenity grounds NVQ level 2 is essential and spraying and chainsaw is ranked 53 in the world (Golf Course Architecture Magazine). maintenance providers in Essex, Cambridgeshire, Norfolk , North East • Venue for the annual Sunningdale Foursomes Tournament played since 1934 certificates would be an advantage. Reporting to the Courses & Estate Manager, applicants should be self London and East Hertfordshire. motivated, committed and hardworking as well as having the necessary • Old Course ranked at No 22 in the world (Golf Course Architecture Magazine) Reporting to the Regional Sales Manager, the successful candidate The ideal candidate will be looking to progress themselves experience and ability to lead a team in raising and maintaining the world • Investors in People Gold Award will have a proven track record in negotiating skills and selling to end user in the industry, and further training will be available to the right class standards required at the Club. customers within the grounds maintenance sector. Experience is required in person. Active involvement in CPD would be an advantage. negotiating with key account customers and buying groups Please apply in writing or email with full CV and covering letter to: Candidates will be highly motivated professionals with a pro- active Salary negotiable dependant on experience and The candidate should have :- Clare Livingston, Administration & HR Manager, Sunningdale Golf Club approach and enjoy working as part of a team. You will need to display good • Minimum of 5 years’ golf course management experience Ridgemount Road, Sunningdale, Berks SL5 9RR oral and written communication skills and be able to create and maintain qualifications. • Links or heathland experience preferred but not essential By email to [email protected] strong working relationships at all levels including good time management, Please apply with your CV to coursemanager. presentation and reporting skills. • Qualified to NVQ 3 or equivalent preferred Closing date for Applications 20th October, 2014 [email protected] • Spraying certificates PA1, 2 & 6 www.sunningdale-golfclub.co.uk Please forward your CV and covering letter including current salary or The Course Manager, Chippenham Golf Club, package to [email protected] • Strong supervisory and communication skills Closing date for applications is 31st October 2014 Malmesbury Road, Chippenham, Wiltshire. SN15 5LT

64 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2014 GI 65 @BIGGALtd A new page featuring the best Tweets and pics from the industry – don’t forget to tag @BIGGALtd to give yourself a chance of being featured! LM Series

Our favourite tweets this month...

@essexbigga ‪@BIGGALtd‬‬ ‪@ColchesterGC‬‬ well done to the team from Banks LIGHTWEIGHT FAIRWAY MOWER Amenity winning at Colchester golf club today! Course was in fantastic condition

‪@tomofreemo‬‬‬ A big thank you to everyone ‪@ BIGGALtd‬‬ & ‪@TheToroCompany‬‬ for a great experience well done ‪@ kevodale76‬‬ a worthy winner & great @IanReevo bloke @CentenaryHGK

@CentenaryHGK Final sand levels being established this week. ‪@Gleneagleshotel‬‬ ‪@ rydercup‬‬ ‪@BIGGALtd‬‬

‪@sandra4bigganor‬‬‬ @BIGGALtd‬ Peter Larter had a great 70th birthday yesterday and enjoyed a Lancaster and red arrow fly past in the afternoon – congratulations

‪@My_Apprentice‬‬‬ Great picture of ‪@BIGGALtd‬‬ TORO Student Greenkeeper of the year finalist ‪@MyerscoughColl‬ Thomas Freeman ‪@KingsdownGC‬‬‬

@AnthonyStockwel‬ Great to catch up with many of the ‪@BIGGALtd‬ Kent section yesterday @CentenaryHGK especially ‪@cliveosgood‬

‪@IanReevo‬‬ 1st green gravel carpet down, 2nd INTRODUCING THE BARONESS LM2400...... green on its way, 1st tees nearly finished. ‪#golf‬ ‪#construction‬ ‪@ Low centre of gravity BIGGALtd‬ The finest reel and bedknife produced in the industry @wesleni87‬ massive congratulation to Kevin Light weight (less than 1300kg) combined with outstanding cutting power oneill worthy winner! Great guy!! ‪#Torostudentoftheyearawards‬ Low ground pressure/high traction four-wheel drive ‪#BIGGA‬ Kyoeisha UK Ltd. a subsidiary of Kyoeisha Co. Ltd. of Japan ‪@the_iog‬‬ ‪@BIGGALtd‬ CEO does the Tel: 01256 461591 ‪#IceBucketChallenge‬ ‪#welldone‬

@My_Apprentice www.baronessuk.com

66 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd A new page featuring the best Tweets and pics from the industry – don’t forget to tag @BIGGALtd to give yourself a chance of being featured! LM Series

Our favourite tweets this month...

@essexbigga ‪@BIGGALtd‬‬ ‪@ColchesterGC‬‬ well done to the team from Banks LIGHTWEIGHT FAIRWAY MOWER Amenity winning at Colchester golf club today! Course was in fantastic condition

‪@tomofreemo‬‬‬ A big thank you to everyone ‪@ BIGGALtd‬‬ & ‪@TheToroCompany‬‬ for a great experience well done ‪@ kevodale76‬‬ a worthy winner & great @IanReevo bloke @CentenaryHGK

@CentenaryHGK Final sand levels being established this week. ‪@Gleneagleshotel‬‬ ‪@ rydercup‬‬ ‪@BIGGALtd‬‬

‪@sandra4bigganor‬‬‬ @BIGGALtd‬ Peter Larter had a great 70th birthday yesterday and enjoyed a Lancaster and red arrow fly past in the afternoon – congratulations

‪@My_Apprentice‬‬‬ Great picture of ‪@BIGGALtd‬‬ TORO Student Greenkeeper of the year finalist ‪@MyerscoughColl‬ Thomas Freeman ‪@KingsdownGC‬‬‬

@AnthonyStockwel‬ Great to catch up with many of the ‪@BIGGALtd‬ Kent section yesterday @CentenaryHGK especially ‪@cliveosgood‬

‪@IanReevo‬‬ 1st green gravel carpet down, 2nd INTRODUCING THE BARONESS LM2400...... green on its way, 1st tees nearly finished. ‪#golf‬ ‪#construction‬ ‪@ Low centre of gravity BIGGALtd‬ The finest reel and bedknife produced in the industry @wesleni87‬ massive congratulation to Kevin Light weight (less than 1300kg) combined with outstanding cutting power oneill worthy winner! Great guy!! ‪#Torostudentoftheyearawards‬ Low ground pressure/high traction four-wheel drive ‪#BIGGA‬ Kyoeisha UK Ltd. a subsidiary of Kyoeisha Co. Ltd. of Japan ‪@the_iog‬‬ ‪@BIGGALtd‬ CEO does the Tel: 01256 461591 ‪#IceBucketChallenge‬ ‪#welldone‬

@My_Apprentice www.baronessuk.com

66 GI OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd TC0698 Greenkeeper Int CS_Smartpower_Layout 1 15/09/2014 11:18 Page 1

The Toro® Groundsmaster range with SmartPower™ The Smart

SmartPowerTM from Toro gives you dramatic efficiency savings on our GM4000 Series – without compromising on performance.

Acting as the ‘brains’ of the machine, Toro’s revolutionary new SmartPower system automatically controls mowing speed according to ground contours and terrain for optimum cutting performance. It means all four mowers in our 4000-D Series rotary range can now offer dramatic savings in fuel and running costs without compromising on productivity and performance. In particular SmartPower prevents bogging down in heavy turf With the revolutionary to provide an unmatched quality of cut even in difficult conditions. What’s more, with smaller, more advanced, and more SmartPower technology power- and fuel-efficient 48hp Yanmar engines, these models already comply with new EU emissions rules for non-road Intelligent power use vehicles. It all makes it the smart choice. Automatically controls mowing speed Full details at www.toro.com Prevents bogging down Experience what SmartPower can do, with a free onsite demonstration. Call Lely on 01480 226800 Reduces fuel and running costs Complies with EU emissions regulations

GROUNDSMASTER 4000-D GROUNDSMASTER 4100-D GROUNDSMASTER 4500-D GROUNDSMASTER 4700-D

Lely. Your partners in turfcare. Call 01480 226800. Lely not only brings you Toro. Talk to us, too, about TYM compact tractors and Otterbine water management systems.

OCTOBER 2014 @BIGGALtd 68Toro GI Commercial Products are distributed by Lely (UK) Limited, St. Neots, Cambridgeshire PE19 1QH. Tel: 01480 226800 | Email: [email protected] | www.lely.com | www.toro.com