Greenkeeper International GI Published by the British and International Greenkeepers Association £5.50 FEBRUARy 2015

Inside... GEORGE MALCOLM Tributes to the 1991 BIGGA Chairman

Show business News, photographs and interviews from a bustling BIGGA Turf Management Exhibition 2015

Also Inside... LES HOWKINS MG IS NEW BIGGA CHAIRMAN Welcome from BIGGA

BIGGA

BIGGA President Sir Michael Bonallack, OBE

BIGGA Board of Management Chairman Les Howkins MG

BIGGA Vice Chairman Stuart Greenwood

BIGGA Past Chairman Chris Sealey

BIGGA Board Members Rob Welford, Andy Baker, Jeremy Hughes, Kenny MacKay, George Barr, John Keenaghan

BIGGA Chief Executive Officer Jim Croxton

BIGGA General Manager Tracey Maddison EVERY COURSE. [email protected] Contact Us BIGGA House, Aldwark, Alne, York, YO61 1UF [email protected] www.bigga.org.uk Tel – 01347 833800 | Fax – 01347 833801 EVERY HOLE. Caption Greenkeeper Bustling and businesslike BTME International After a fantastic BTME last month, Five members were awarded Life The official monthly magazine of the British and International Golf Greenkeepers matters were brought into perspective Membership at the AGM, all extremely EVERY DAY. Association Limited. when we heard the news of the passing of deserving for lifetimes dedicated to the Production former chairman, George Malcolm. industry and the Association. Design & Brand It is worth reflecting on the comparative I was particularly pleased to see Clive Executive youth of the Association, as recently as 30 Osgood, chairman in 2001 and our Regional Tom Campbell years ago there was no united voice for the Administrator for the South East, receive this Tel – 01347 833800 ext 513 greenkeeping industry. George, as chairman honour. Despite the odd infirmity in recent [email protected] of the BGGA, was instrumental in the coming years, Clive has given his entire working life to Editorial together of all the disparate associations the betterment of the Association and has done Communications and was very proud to serve as BIGGA’s fifth so with dignity. Well done Clive. Executive chairman in 1991. I would like to pass on my At the opposite end of the career spectrum Steve Castle Tel – 01347 833800 condolences to all George’s family and friends. it was inspiring to meet the youngsters who ext 510 steve.castle have been nominated to form our first Young @bigga.co.uk BIGGA has come a very long way since Greenkeepers Committee. BIGGA is in good Advertising then and nowhere was that more evident health but we must continue to plan for the Business than at BTME 2015. future and adapt to meet the needs of the Development Manager A bustling and businesslike exhibition was younger generations, I know that the input of Jill Rodham Tel – 01347 833800 complemented by four days of outstanding the Young Greenkeepers will be instrumental in ext 519 Fax – 01347 833802 education. As ever, the unique environment helping us achieve that. [email protected] of Harrogate provided a fabulous backdrop to

Printing the event meaning that networking and turf This magazine contains a thorough Warners Midlands Plc, The Maltings, Manor chat continued seamlessly from the Exhibition review of BTME, the success of which Lane, Bourne, Lincolnshire PE10 9PH ONE BRAND Tel – 01778 391000 | Fax – 01778 394269 Centre to the town itself. serves as a motivation to ensure the 2016 I am hugely grateful to the 130+ companies event is even bigger and better. Contents may not be reprinted or otherwise OF TURF EQUIPMENT reproduced without written permission. who chose to exhibit, the dozens of educators We have opened a fifth Hall in the Exhibition ® Return postage must accompany all Pebble Beach uses only Jacobsen turf equipment on every inch of every hole. From ECLIPSE2 and materials submitted if return is requested. No who imparted wisdom and of course the 4,000+ Centre to cope with exhibitor demand, our ECLIPSE® 322 walking and riding greens mowers to LF550™ fairway mowers and AR522 and AR722T responsibility can be assumed for unsolicited visitors who came and shared the experience. plans for the education programme are already materials. The right is reserved to edit contour rotaries, the ve courses of Pebble Beach trust Jacobsen to maintain all its precious turf. submissions before publication. Even snow on the Tuesday night had little to no underway and I am confident it will yet again Although every care will be taken, no impact on the overall success of the event. be the highlight of the greenkeeping calendar. So why does one of the world’s most famous golf destinations choose Jacobsen turf equipment responsibility is accepted for loss of manuscripts, photographs or artwork. Opinions Thanks to all that helped make BTME 2015 year after year? It’s quite simple: Jacobsen is the only turf equipment that can provide the expressed are not necessarily those of the It was brilliant to have 16 of the 26 such a great start to the year. world-class conditions Pebble Beach is known for. Association, and no responsibility is accepted for such content, advertising or product former BIGGA Chairmen present at the Enjoy the read. information that may appear. Circulation is by inaugural Chairman’s Lunch. For more information about Jacobsen or to nd a Jacobsen dealer near you, visit subscription. Subscription rate: UK £50 per year, Europe and Eire £65, Rest of the World This was nearly the final act of Chris Sealey’s www.ransomesjacobsen.com. £95. The magazine is also distributed to BIGGA members, golf clubs, local authorities, the turf year at the helm, coming just a couple of hours industry, libraries and central government. before he handed over to Les Howkins MG. It has been a privilege to work closely with Chris for the last 12 months, he is a true gentleman of the industry and very passionate about the FOR A LEGENDARY PERFORMANCE Association. ON YOUR COURSE, CALL 01473 270000 Under his stewardship we implemented the most comprehensive review of BIGGA’s governance in our history and I know he was www.ransomesjacobsen.com ISSN: 0961– 6977 thrilled the amended Articles of Association Jim Croxton © 2015 British and International Golf were approved unanimously. BIGGA CEO Greenkeepers Association Limited

GI/PB2/02/2015 @BIGGALtd FEBRUARY 2015 GI 3

Pebble Beach 2 A4 BIGGA.indd 1 16/01/2015 10:41 CONTENTS GI A look at what’s inside the magazine this month “One of his proudest moments was when FEBRUARY 2015 he joined BIGGA’s Open Support Team in 1987. As well as having a good chat with Fuzzy Zoeller, he always used to recall how he raised his rake in the air as he walked George up the 18th, soaking up the applause from the galleries. He said that for that moment, he felt like a celebrity for the first time!” John Talbot is Middlesbrough’s current Course Manager and added: “I worked with him briefly as I replaced him when he retired, and it’s one of the premier Malcolm courses in the area because of him. Under his guidance, the team built the 6th, 7th and 8th holes from scratch and they are Since the passing of George Malcolm, BIGGA has superb. been inundated with tributes for a former Association “He knew how treat his team, he was FEATURES strict when it was necessary, but was very Chairman, great friend to many and an influential fair and made sure he praised you when member of the BGGA which preceded BIGGA you had done a good job.” Middlesbrough produced a book for their centenary in 2008, and devoted a page to Scotsman George, former Course David Golding, The GTC’s Education George. An extract reads: “George joined in Manager at Middlesbrough Golf Club, Director, knew George well. He said: April 1964 as Head Greenkeeper, but was hailed from Loanhead, south of , “During his year as Chairman, he enjoyed ultimately promoted to Course Manager and was BIGGA Chairman in 1991. He nothing more than travelling the length This meant he took over responsibilities passed away on Saturday 24 January at and breadth of Britain to mix at Section for all aspects of greenkeeping from 16 George Malcolm Ernie Scott, our Professional at the time. the age of 74 after suffering from an illness. level with ‘ordinary’ greenkeepers. He joined Middlesbrough Golf Club “He was very proud to be elected Until then, Professionals had included – known to everyone locally as Brass BIGGA Chairman as he believed he could greenkeeping in their responsibilities. Castle – in 1964 and apart from a brief spell champion the hands-on, grass roots “We all owe George a debt of gratitude Tributes to the 1991 BIGGA working at Saltburn-by-Sea Golf Club, greenkeeper. for his part in the course developments spent his entire working career there until “He felt that through education and hard which have been completed during his his retirement nine years ago. work, any BIGGA member could reach the time in office. George was with us for 41 Chairman He was hugely passionate about position of Chairman.” years (apart from a short break in 1975/76 greenkeeping and educating greenkeepers, George was also heavily involved when he was at Saltburn) and will be and in 1977 helped establish what is now in updating BIGGA’s constitution in remembered for his expertise, dedication the BIGGA Cleveland Section with the 2000 alongside many key figures in and long hours he willingly put in to assistance of the likes of Harry Lees, Roger greenkeeping including Harry Diamond, maintain our first-class course. Shaw and Bruce Burnell. Cecil George, Walter Woods and Jack “George used to ‘put the lights out’ on the He was a member of BIGGA’s Open McMillan. course, watering from a single standpipe, 21 BTME 2015: Support Team at for the 1987 Ian Pemberton, Course Manager at often when many of us were tucked up in Open Championship, and managed to Cleveland Golf Club and current BIGGA bed!” strike up a conversation with the American Cleveland Section Secretary, worked Tony Smith, former Course Manager at golfer Fuzzy Zoeller as he raked bunkers closely with George during his time at Teesside Golf Club and BIGGA Chairman The Review during one of the rounds. It’s said that the Middlesbrough. in 2012/13, added: “He was a stalwart of pair were firm friends by the 18th! He said: “He was a fantastic mentor and the Cleveland Section and the Association, I owe him so much, I was an assistant and also a great ambassador for both. greenkeeper when he was Course Manager “He was a hands-on greenkeeper who 20 pages consisting of: and I learnt an awful lot from him. would work tirelessly, often seven days a “We achieved so much with him week, 12 hours a day. He was always at leading the team and the course was in the end of the phone if you needed a chat, 22 Educating in Yorkshire brilliant condition. It held various Youth but remained keen to learn throughout his Internationals attracting a young Nick career. Faldo and Sandy Lyle to compete on the “He was a very good friend to many and A focus on Continue to Learn course, amongst others. will be sorely missed.” “Everyone thoroughly enjoyed working George was elected an Honorary Life under him. He was a lovely, caring man Member at Middlesbrough when he retired and a real gentleman. He was, and always in 2005. 24 BTME Newsdesk will be, an inspiration to me.” The flags at BIGGA House have been Ian Holoran, former Head Greenkeeper flying at half mast in tribute. George at Middlesbrough Municipal Golf Club, leaves his wife Marion, daughters Fiona All the news from the week knew George well and said: “He helped his and Jackie plus son David, who followed team produce some really quality holes on in his footsteps and is currently a Head his course. This was quite a feat as all the Greenkeeper in Germany, and two 34 The buzz is back work was completed in-house. He just put grandchildren, Mailin and Evie. so much hard work into everything he did. Rest In Peace, George. “He was very passionate and hugely Greg Rhodes interviews exhibitors knowledgeable about greenkeeping, and With thanks to George’s family, Ian very good company. He was a normal Pemberton, Ian Holoran, John Talbot, Tony family man, he enjoyed cars and also Smith, David Golding and Middlesbrough 40 Variety adds spice to playing golf. Golf Club. 16 21-32 BTME 2015 16 GI FEBRUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd FEBRUARY 2015 GI 17 Greg speaks to delegates 44 Dealing with weeds 6 in turf REGULARS Dr Terry Mabbett’s latest article GREENKEEPER INTERNATIONAL 3 Welcome from BIGGA Published by the British and International Golf Gre enkeepers Association 48 Coated seed and GI £5.50 FEBRUARY 2015 bent grasses 6 Chairman’s Word Inside... News from STRI trials 10 Newsdesk GEORGE 18 Membership News MALCOLM 50 How to finance Tributes to the 1991 your fleet: Part 2 BIGGA Chairman Tips from John Deere

52 Swede dreams 19 L&D News - A BIGGA member’s Scandinavian 34 50 latest CPD figures Show business experience News, photographs announced and interviews from a bustling BIGGA 62 Around the Green Turf Management 56 Join the Exhibition 2015 Wentworth support 68 Greenkeepers team Training Committee Volunteer at the BMW PGA 70 Buyers Guide Championship 72 Recruitment 58 Durabunker dives 74 @BIGGALtd

in with ‘The Shark’ ALSO INSIDE... LES HOWKINS MG IS NEW BIGGA CHAIRMAN

UK company’s work with Greg GI_FEB_15v5.indd 1 Norman venue 03/02/2015 16:37 60 Revolution at Brora British and International Farmura’s work in the Scottish Highlands Golf Greenkeepers Association 52 60 10

4 GI FEBRUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd FEBRUARY 2015 GI 5 Chairman’s Word New BIGGA Chairman Les Howkins MG, Course Manager at Richmond Golf Club, pens his first column for GI

New beginnings at BTME 2015

It’s quite surreal to be sat drafting my first Chairman’s Word column for Greenkeeper International, never in my wildest dreams did I think I would be in this position and I find it an incredible honour to have been chosen to represent BIGGA in this role. As a young greenkeeper starting out in the late eighties when BIGGA was still in its infancy, I worked at Kibworth Golf Club in Leicester where my passion for greenkeeping was driven by the Head Greenkeeper Chris Butlin. If I am completely honest, my dream was to be a golf pro, but I wasn’t good enough. However I retained the love of the sport and fell into greenkeeping, firstly as a temporary summer employee, then full-time and I haven’t looked back since. The industry has given me over 25 great years of employment and I have loved every day (well almost every day!) - it’s offered me “My two young daughters count down to some fantastic opportunities and I have Christmas in sleeps and I do the same with made so many amazing friends along the way. BTME. This year was even more exciting The build up to BTME is always filled with excitement. My two young daughters knowing I was becoming Chairman” count down to Christmas in sleeps and I do the same with BTME, I know it’s a little bit The AGM as usual was held in constitution and governance which has sad but I’m sure I’m not the only one. This the Queens Suite of the Harrogate taken up much time and effort over the last year was even more exciting than normal, International Centre. I appreciate that couple of years. knowing that I was becoming Chairman on BTME is an incredibly busy week for The AGM also marked the end of the Wednesday evening. everyone, but it would be great to see Arnold Phipps-Jones’ time on the Board The Continue to Learn programme more members attending what is a very of Management. Arnold has been heavily this year was bigger and better than ever important event. involved with BIGGA for many years and was matched by the largest number The most crucial part of this year’s and has served as South East Board of of delegates in its history. A massive AGM was the vote on the new Articles Management member for the last four and thanks must go to the team at BIGGA of Association which went through a half years. House for all their hard work before and unanimously which was very pleasing after In this time he has devoted many hours during the event, also thank you to all the all the hard work that went into producing to the Association and his input will be members from across the UK and abroad them over the last 18 months. missed, on behalf of the Board I would like for continuing to support the fabulous The adoption of the new Articles gives to thank Arnold for all his hard work and education programme. the Association a modern governance dedication over the years. With the exhibition again filling four structure and ensures our compliance with He has been replaced by Andy Baker, halls there was a real buzz around the the Companies Act. Head Greenkeeper at Ely City Golf Club. place and with the three big machinery It is the intention of the Board of I know he will bring lots of ideas and manufacturers committed to exhibiting on Management to review this document on enthusiasm to the table and I look a larger scale in 2016, I feel it is clear that an annual basis. It will become a living forward to working with him over the BTME is fulfilling the industry’s needs and document that can be tweaked on a regular coming year. the future is very strong. Please be assured basis if necessary, and voted on by the The AGM went very smoothly with a that the board and senior staff will never members at the AGM. slightly emotional Chris Sealey giving a become complacent and will continually This should save us going through heartfelt speech in his final moments as strive to make BTME better. the long process of overhauling the Chairman.

6 GI FEBRUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd FEBRUARY 2015 GI 7 Funding your future The funding and assistance provided by BIGGA Partners and BIGGA Education Supporters underpins the Association’s considerable investment in Continuing Professional Development and all our educational activity. They are investing in the future of BIGGA members, we are hugely grateful and urge you to show them your support

Les in front of the Richmond clubhouse, and during construction work on the course

I was moved by the support of past these surveys user friendly, and I urge all pride, passion and dedication for the job Chairmen, Board members and all who members to take part and get involved in will not waiver. In fact they always say attended the AGM. This continued later in shaping the future of greenkeeping for the they get more done when I am not there! I the evening when I went for a celebratory greenkeepers now and the future. usually respond with “it’s all down to the drink in the well-known pub located in Education is a matter close to my heart. leadership”…the reality is, it’s down to the Old Winter Gardens. My entrance was I’ve benefitted from many BIGGA training sheer hard work. fairly normal – my team wanted to carry courses over the years and I can see 2015 As we move in to February and towards me in on their shoulders like Cleopatra but being a very important year for the L&D the spring, winter projects are coming to an decided I was too heavy despite my recent department. end, you start to see welcoming pictures on weight loss! It was an unforgettable day for Last year saw BIGGA invited to sit social media of daffodils in flower and the me. around the table with the GTC and focus changes back to course conditioning. During my year as Vice Chairman I got government departments to discuss and I sincerely hope the weather is kind and we to know last year’s Chairman very well and plan the new trailblazer apprenticeships. can all get our courses in great shape early what an honour it was. Chris Sealey is a The very fact we were invited to the in the season to provide our members, true gentleman, has been a credit to our discussions table is a massive step in the guests and visitors with a fantastic golfing Association for many years and has guided right direction for our Association. We are experience. the Board and BIGGA House team in a currently developing our own accreditation Remember, if you have any problems truly professional manner over the last 12 scheme, which will eventually encompass BIGGA offers an extremely extensive months. all levels of education from Apprentice support network through the various Chris has carried out a huge amount to Master Greenkeeper and form the helplines and the section committees and of work behind the scenes that most backbone of a professional registration Regional Administrators. Support from members just don’t see. He has been system. your RA is one of the many benefits of the perfect role model for me and I will The new CPD scheme has also been up membership. However, all too often they endeavour to carry on all of his good work. and running for over 18 months now and are called in too late to be of any real help, So, what does the business of Chairman we are now approaching 1000 registered so don’t be afraid to use their skills at the hold in store for 2015? Well at the last members. We will be working hard on the first signs of a problem. Board meeting we held a session where other 5000 in the year ahead! All that remains is for me to wish it was decided that a new strategic plan I must also thank everyone at Richmond everyone the best for the forthcoming for the Association was required. This will Golf Club and the team of greenkeepers season, and I hope to see as many of you as not be rushed, and member feedback will that work with me. Without the support of possible at forthcoming events. be needed to ensure the plan is in line the club and the team, taking up the role with member and industry needs and as BIGGA Chairman would not have been expectations. possible. Contact details Initially it will require member I have every confidence that when I Individual Contributors: Steven Tierney MG, Chris Lomas MG, Andrew Campbell MG CGCS, W J Rogers, involvement in a survey with possibly am away on Association business the Les Howkins MG, BIGGA Chairman Espen Bergmann, Nick Gray, Steve Dixon, Richard McGlynn, Douglas Duguid, Jaey Goodchild, Michael Beaton, more to follow. We will endeavour to make course will be in good hands and their [email protected] David Barker, Greg Evans, Frank Newberry

8 GI FEBRUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd GI NEWSDESK GI NEThe latest newsWSD from around theE globeSK VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR NEW TOURNAMENT This year sees a brand new event added to the European Tour Race to Dubai Series. The inaugural Paul Lawrie Matchplay will take place at Murcar Links Golf Club from 30 July – 2 August. This is another great event Dennis Archer heading for Aberdeen right on the Everyone at BIGGA was back of the successful Aberdeen saddened to hear of the passing Asset Scottish Open which was of Dennis Archer, 77, former held in the city in 2014. BIGGA Board of Management The format will be 64 of member and ex-Head the top players in the Race to Greenkeeper at Whitchurch Dubai series playing a straight Golf Club in Cardiff. knockout over the 4 days with the So, what’s a Turf Club? The former RAF serviceman new champion being crowned on helped build the golf course the Sunday afternoon. Recently the Lancaster Turf Club met at with as many people as possible via Twitter at RAF St Athan while still As with any major golf Garstang Golf Club where the open forum and Facebook and use their Regional in the forces. He went on tournament, the ultimate event discussed a range of topics including Administrator to email members and to be part of the team that success of it relies on volunteers diseases, budgeting and the current economic obtain a CPD Code. Yes - these meetings are constructed the first phase of from within the industry giving climate for the golf industry. Not quite what educational and attract a CPD Credit. the course at Castell Heights up their time to assist the existing was expected - but that’s Turf Club! Who attends? Anyone who wants to! The Golf Club in Caerphilly, then Murcar Links team in the daily Warren Bevan, Course Manager at venue is usually free and whoever attends joined Whitchurch as Head set up of the golf course. Lancaster Golf Club, opened proceedings by either pays for their own food or a company Greenkeeper in 1983. Volunteers are required, and explaining how some eight years ago he, Scott can sponsor it and give an educational Mike Stokes took over from tasks involved include greens Reeves (Course Manager at Leyland GC) and seminar. Dennis as Head Greenkeeper cutting, approach cutting, tees John Ibison (Course Manager at Garstang) How does it help? Well you get to spend at the parkland course, which cutting, fairway cutting, had the idea to hold informal meetings locally time with like minded, dedicated turf care celebrated its centenary bunker maintenance, divoting to talk about all matters turf related. professionals. last year, and credits him and more. Whilst the concept met with a measure of Is it an extension of BTME? Yes it probably with passing on extensive There will be accommodation scepticism they went on and called the first of is - it gives you an opportunity to get together greenkeeping expertise. provided at no cost to anyone many monthly meetings that were supported with other members and chat in a relaxed Mike said: “He was a very, wishing to be involved in the by 20-40 greenkeepers, all of whom enjoyed environment. very knowledgeable greenkeeper support team for the the camaraderie, information sharing and The next meeting is from 6pm on Monday and wasn’t one of the ‘old guard’ tournament. support these gatherings brought with 9 February at Garstang Golf Club, and who resisted change. He went Those interested should them. three greenkeepers have been tasked to to college in his forties to further contact Course Manager Bob The meetings were resurrected last autumn do a 10 minute presentation on any topic his greenkeeping knowledge, Mackay at greens@murcarlinks. and have proved popular. greenkeeping related. This is a good way and was always up to date com for further information. The guys have no secret formula - they to develop skills for presenting and public just pick a venue, share the date and time speaking too. and willing to use modern machinery and techniques. “The reason Whitchurch BIGGA MIDLAND REGIONAL has such a good reputation GOLF DAY NORTHERN REGIONAL CONFERENCE is mainly down to his 19 CONFERENCE COMING SOON The ever-popular South East The BIGGA Northern Region Conference is 2014 at Gleneagles. years of tireless work until his Region annual Golf and Dinner being held at Chester Le Street Golf Club on Steve will be followed by Philip Russell, retirement in 2002. He lived for The BIGGA Midland Regional Conference is welcomes Alan Ferguson, Head Groundsman Day will this year be held on Wednesday, 11 March. Admission is FREE R&A Golf Course Affairs Manager, who will the job and would work all the on Wednesday 25 February at Stonebridge at St George’s Park. He will be focusing on the Friday 6 March at Walton to BIGGA members and £20 for Affiliate and be discussing everything from The Open to hours that God sends. Golf Club in Coventry. building of new hybrid pitches and how many Heath Golf Club. Non Members. sustainability. “I learnt so much from him, The day will be kicked off by Pete Newton, of their maintenance strategies have been This is one of the longest Speakers include Adam Newton, STRI An educational and fun day will be and would not have been the Head Greenkeeper at Rockliffe Hall Golf Club, influenced by the world of golf. running events in the Turfgrass Agronomist, who will be discussing rounded off by BIGGA General Manager greenkeeper I am today without who will be focusing on growing creeping bent Another excellent educational day will be greenkeeping industry and is the use of objective measurements to Tracey Maddison, whose presentation will the period I spent working in the north of England. concluded by John Lockyer from The Wisley, sure to be another super day. optimise surface performance for major golf cover BIGGA Support and how to get involved alongside Dennis as his Deputy. He will be followed by Agronomic Services’ with his presentation entitled ‘Working with For more details please tournaments. in the many opportunities the Association “He was a lovely, lovely man David Snowden who will be looking at the New Techniques’. contact Clive Osgood, Next is Ben Taylor for Bernhard with a offers. and will be sorely missed by all importance and efficiency of rootzone. To book, download the booking form from BIGGA’s South East Regional workshop on cutting unit technologies, To book, download the booking form from who knew him.” Next up will be STRI’s Jonathan Tucker the events list at bigga.org.uk or contact Administrator on cliveosgood@ followed by Steve Chappell’s hugely the events list at bigga.org.uk or contact Dennis, who passed away on who will discuss bunker design and Roger Butler on 07525 593359 or email yahoo.co.uk, 01737 819343 or popular and entertaining presentation on Sandra Raper on 07866 366966 or email 6 January, leaves a wife and two construction, and after lunch the conference [email protected] 07841 948410. greenkeeping before, during and after the [email protected] daughters.

10 GI FEBRUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd FEBRUARY 2015 GI 11 GI NEWSDESK GI NEWSDESK AQUATROLS REACH NEW SOUTH WEST OF CHAIRMAN Frank Clarkson, Golf Course Superin- involved in numerous professional tendent at Dundonald Links, has taken and amateur tournaments whilst at AGREEMENT WITH on the role of South West of Scotland Dundonald and Loch Lomond. The Section Chairman, replacing Jim Paton theatrical twilight finish of the Millennium HOME OF GOLF who is now Scottish Regional Chairman. Solheim Cup will live long in my memory. Frank’s colleague Amanda Dorans took AD: How do you manage golfers the opportunity to speak to Frank about expectations with your agronomic the position. goals? Amanda said: “Before we find out FC: Golf like many sectors in the leisure more about Frank, I’d like to take this industry is going through challenging opportunity on behalf of my fellow Section times. The key is to match customer Members to thank Jim for all of his hard expectation with sustainable expenditure. work and commitment over the years and If we are within budget and the customer wish him good luck and every success in expectations are met then we have got the his new position.” balance right. AD: Frank, first of all, congratulations AD; How has the industry changed on your new role. since you began your career? FC: Thank you, it is a great honour to FC: Technological advances in general represent a region which is rich in history over the last 30 years have seen all aspects and possesses some fine golf courses. of day to day life change dramatically. AD: Where did you begin your More advanced equipment and materials greenkeeping career and was this your have made the job easier however the age first career choice? of social media and greater expectations FC: I entered the industry at the ripe old temper these advances somewhat. I don’t age of 27, beginning my career at Burnley feel the core task of managing turf has Borough Council. However I soon found really changed. myself working on the golf course which AD: Do you play golf or participate in at the time was short staffed. I quickly fell any other sporting pastimes? Watching in love with this type of work. Prior to this I Burnley FC from the sofa doesn’t count! was self-employed in sales for 11 years. FC: Handicap of 18, however I rarely AD: How long have you been in your play. Football, music and walking are my Aquatrols, the world leader in soil surfac- variety of soil structures that make up the Tom Malehorn, Aquatrols International current role? preferred past times. tant technology, is pleased to announce Links Trust. Marketing Manager, said: “We are FC: I started working for Loch Lomond AD: What would you say to your that it has reached a three-year agreement “Revolution allows us to optimise turf honoured to be able to supply Aquatrols Golf Club in 1996, moving to Dundonald younger self? with the St Andrews Links Trust to supply health across all of the sites and helps us and Farmura products to the St Andrews Links in 2003. FC: Not a lot, as I know it would fall on Revolution and other Aquatrols products to deliver the optimum conditions expected Links Trust. AD: Do you have any tournament deaf ears. to all seven courses at St Andrews through at the Home of Golf. “Our commitment to optimising growing experience? Thanks Frank and all the best for the 2017. “We pride ourselves on working with conditions at St Andrews mirrors our FC: I’ve been lucky enough to be upcoming year. According to Gordon Moir, Director the experts in any given field. The sheer global commitment to the turf industry as of Greenkeeping at St Andrews, the amount of research that Aquatrols puts a whole.” agreement with Aquatrols was reached into its products highlights their strong Aquatrols President and CEO after careful consideration and years of commitment to the industry. Tracy Jarman echoed that sentiment, satisfactory experience using Aquatrols “Aquatrols’ dedication to research, along adding: SYNGENTA AND BIGGA SET TO HELP products. with their years of demonstrated expertise “We take pride in delivering products He said: “We have been using Aquatrols and service has created a strong working that stand up to the rigorous demands of GOLF UNLOCK ITS TRUE POTENTIAL products, primarily Revolution, across our relationship between us.” our customers. Syngenta has joined forces The key initiatives that make reinforce Operation Pollinator help enhance what can be seven courses for over five years. We chose Representatives from Aquatrols said “It brings me great joy to know that with BIGGA to extend its up the Syngenta and BIGGA as the number one practical achieved.” Revolution because we require a product they were thrilled to agree to the three year Aquatrols products are trusted at the exciting project to support partnership include: environmental initiative in golf. BIGGA CEO Jim Croxton that can achieve success in the wide deal. highest levels of the turf industry.” and help to revitalise the golf - An education programme - Further Surveys within the said: “We’re delighted to be industry - Unlocking Golf’s for greenkeepers on improving greenkeeping sector to provide working with one of our BIGGA True Potential. turf spray application industry insight that will help Partners in this exciting BIGGA MEMBER JACK KICKS ON The company has invested techniques. shape future practice. initiative. We will be seeking heavily in the future of golf, This will ensure Syngenta’s Caroline Carroll to engage our members at Jack Hetherington is a BIGGA Athens to compete in the Athens most recently through its greenkeepers get the best said: “Greenkeepers have Regional and National level in member and greenkeeper at Challenge, a competition that series of widely acclaimed possible results from every an integral role in providing Operation Pollinator and the Ponteland Golf Club, where their draws some of the best fighters in surveys that have identified application. It will be delivered the playing surface quality, importance of correct spray unique selling point is the speed Europe. strong areas of potential via a series of Regional environmental features and application. of their greens. Jack has already won local demand for the sport. seminars and presentations facilities that will attract more “This project is a step However, this isn’t the only competitions, a beginners BIGGA is now delighted alongside Best Practice articles people to play the game. Their towards advancing the game speed and accuracy required European Trophy and in to be working with Syngenta in Greenkeeper International. actions are imperative in through environmental in Jack’s life after he started February became British No. 2 in towards the successful - Promotion of Operation assuring the environmental sustainability.” kickboxing for a hobby just over the Advanced World Association implementation of the next Pollinator – Syngenta’s and business sustainability of You can find out more two years ago. of Kickboxing Organisation phase of this activity to make nationwide environmental the clubs. about Operation Pollinator, Thanks to his passion and Nationals. golf courses more attractive. initiative to proactively create “Working closely with BIGGA and Syngenta’s innovations dedication in both greenkeeping Jack is also a member of the The company has been new habitats for bees and other at a Regional and National and products, by visiting the and his training, he is now Young Greenkeeper Committee. long-term supporters of pollinating insects, and make level will give greenkeepers Syngenta turf management travelling with his kickboxing Good luck Jack, and watch this greenkeepers and the turf golf courses a more attractive access to our R&D resources website: team, Emulous Kickboxing, to space for news on how he gets on! management industry. place to play. The aim is to and support services to www.greencast.co.uk

12 GI FEBRUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd FEBRUARY 2015 GI 13 GI NEWSDESK GI NEWSDESK NEW ROLE FOR MASTER GREENKEEPER Late ‘birds’ fail to Crown Golf, the UK’s largest golf club owner and operator, has appointed Mike catch the early Bush MG as Group Course Manager across its portfolio of 38 golf courses at 25 separate facilities. OPM ‘worms’ The 39-year old Master Greenkeeper Milder winters increase insect was previously Course Manager at the survival rates and rates of company’s flagship property, St Mellion growth and reproduction International Resort, a role he took up in benefit from higher spring 2003. He will remain based at the award- temperatures. Winter winning Cornwall resort and will continue 2013/14 was exceptionally to manage the two European Tour courses mild, southern England there, although his new job will also see essentially frost free and April him regularly visit all of the group’s clubs. 2014 the fifth consecutive Crown Golf, which has one of the UK’s month with a higher than largest greenkeeping teams with a greens average temperature. Fast team of nearly 200, predominately owns forward for OPM. golf clubs in the South, with Eccleston Park London Tree Officers GC in and South Essex GC Association (LTOA) said L1 (first instar) larvae hatched three SCOTTISH PATRON near Brentwood representing the group’s to five weeks earlier than in 2013, were at L3 by the end northernmost and easternmost points April 2014 when insecticide spraying started and L4 by mid respectively. May. This quicker than normal growth and development AWARD WINNERS He will manage the group’s Course appears to have compromised the success of insecticide The 2014 Annual Patrons Award • South West Section – Ian Managers, including setting strategy and spraying using Bacillus thuringiensis subsp kurstaki (BTk) was held at Stirling Golf Club Smith, Greenkeeper at maintenance plans for each club, and will which ‘punches’ a hole in the gut wall (following ingestion) on Wednesday 9 December with Dundonald Links head up the group’s national accounts and level, as befits one of Europe’s best-loved BIGGA CEO Jim Croxton said: to invade and kill the host. However, BTk will not kill larvae the regional chairman, Jim • West Section – Andrew Orr, machinery purchasing activities. golf resorts, and I am looking forward to “Mike has demonstrated a older than L2 because it cannot penetrate their resilient gut Paton hosting this prestigious Greenkeeper at Drumpellier Golf He said: “My overriding priorities are helping each of our teams achieve the commitment to personal development wall. event. Jim thanked our host Club to develop our large greens team and to maximum possible playing quality at their throughout his greenkeeping career and City of London Corporation, which owns and manages golf club for allowing use of this The Scottish Region would continue to improve golf course quality own courses. it is hugely gratifying to see his hard 11,000 acres of historic and natural open space, reported a excellent venue and for providing like to thank our patrons for across the Crown Golf estate.” “There’s huge diversity between our golf work recognised in this way by his population explosion this year. OPM nests were found in the attendees with a fantastic lunch. their continued support, without Mike led the St Mellion team which courses: we have parklands on heavy clay, employers. Olympic Park at Stratford and at London Zoo, Regents Park Alister Connell was the which the region would be prepared the Resort’s Nicklaus Signature downlands on chalk, and SSSI sites like “The Master Greenkeeper award is in Westminster right on the border with Camden. guest speaker at the lunch unable to provide members with Course for its most recent European Tour Hampton Court Palace. widely considered to be the foremost Kew Gardens reported its worst year ever with up to 1000 providing a fascinating talk the various events held each event, the 2007 Midas Group English “Every golf course is different, and it achievement in the profession. nests. Vast numbers of larvae swarmed around the bases on the preparation work at year. Seniors Open. is rewarding to see a club like Eccleston “We at BIGGA are extremely proud of of trees clearly posing high risks to visitors. Tony Kirkham, the facilities used for the 2014 Patrons: Amenity Sales; He added: “I know the standards Park improve year after year, until it is Mike and wish him well in this challenging head of arboretum at Kew, told the Guardian newspaper Commonwealth Games. Alister Aitkens; Bayer; Bryson Tractors; required for elite golf at European Tour performing at the very top of its game.” role.” that annual control by insecticide spraying was now a did particularly well considering Campeys; Double A; Everris; necessity. And with such large numbers of insects now in he was let down by the lack of Fairways; Farmura; Franklins; Kew Gardens and surrounding suburbs “eradication would overhead projection facilities. Germinal Seeds; Greentech; BOOST FOR TEAM AT HEYTHROP PARK not be possible in a million years”. Jim thanked Alister and asked Hamilton Bros; Headlands; A new golfing reputation With the addition of two First ever report of a major effect on public health came him to present the certificates to Hendersons; Hugh King; is being built on the edge new Assistant Greenkeepers, from a school in South London where 30 children developed the 2014 Patron Award Winners: Indigrow; Lely UK; MacGregor’s; of the Cotswolds, with the Tom Coleman and James rashes in response to contact with the urticating (stinging) • Central Section – John McNab Sport; Nairn Brown; 282-room Heythrop Park Rodley, plus recent recruit hairs shed by L4 (and older) OPM larvae. Bateson, Greenkeeper at St Oakland Amenity; Rigby Taylor; Resort near Chipping Norton Ivor Hopkins, Heythrop Pest monitoring with pheromone traps carried out in Andrews Links Robin Hume Associates; in Oxfordshire making a major Park Resort has added late summer to coincide with emergence and flight period • East Section – Stuart Scotlube; SGM Contracts; statement of intent by boosting five new estate and course of adult moths was extended to Queens Park, Hampstead Ferguson, Course Manager at Sheriff Amenity; Souters; its greenkeeping team for management staff since last Heath and Epping Forest. The pheromone is a laboratory Dundas Park SPS Groundcare; Sports Turf 2015. spring. designed replica of the natural sex attractant (pheromone) • North Section – Richard Services; Symbio; Terra Firma; Steve Cherry, a 25-year Steve said: “Heythrop Park released by the female OPM moth to attract males during Johnstone, Depute Head Thomas Sheriff; Thorntrees; career greenkeeping can surely now be classified as mating. Greenkeeper at Nairn Dunbar Turf Irrigation Services; Turftec professional who prepared one of the UK’s highest-quality Pheromone lures are placed in tent-shaped Delta traps Golf Club 17 European Tour events ‘Stay and Play’ venues. Our or the larger-capacity bucket-shaped Funnel traps and under Alex Hay at Woburn, greens are superb now, but suspended in oak trees. Male moths are attracted by heads the new team as Estate by May of this year we’ll be in plumes of the volatile pheromone and secured in the traps Manager at the prestigious a position to invite golfers to to give entomologists a measure of the size and spread of the golf resort which features the judge us against anything in adult moth population. Male moths capable of flying up to NEWSDESK 7,088 yard Bainbridge Course, the South of England.” projects have been extensive “I am delighted that we now 20 km were trapped in the London Boroughs of Camden, rated by many as the best in “With a clear fine turf focus including tee work and have a full team on board. They Barnet, Hackney, Waltham Forest, Lewisham and Sutton GI Oxfordshire. we have already brought the bunkering, and of course our have the experience to raise and also in the Epsom district of , all well outside the Do you have any news, photographs or stories on any Experienced Brett Smith estate up several levels in predominately fescue greens Heythrop up to the next level. existing area of OPM infestation. aspect of greenkeeping? arrived at Heythrop Park in the condition in the latter part of have received a great deal of “Steve & Brett are already Favourable weather and environmental conditions are final weeks of 2014 as Deputy 2014” said Steve, a 2-handicap attention. Undeniably, they are producing great results on clearly the key factors driving pest numbers and spread and Contact BIGGA Communications Executive, Steve Estate Manager after spending golfer who once competed now superb putting surfaces.” the golf course, and we are with which an already huge and costly control programme Castle on 01347 833829 14 years at Windmill Village in the English Amateur Tim Good, Director of Golf at receiving positive feedback on a cannot compete. or email [email protected] GC in Coventry. Championship. “Renovation Heythrop Park Resort, added: daily basis.” Dr Terry Mabbett

14 GI FEBRUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd FEBRUARY 2015 GI 15 “One of his proudest moments was when he joined BIGGA’s Open Support Team in 1987. As well as having a good chat with Fuzzy Zoeller, he always used to recall how he raised his rake in the air as he walked George up the 18th, soaking up the applause from the galleries. He said that for that moment, he felt like a celebrity for the first time!” John Talbot is Middlesbrough’s current Course Manager and added: “I worked with him briefly as I replaced him when he retired, and it’s one of the premier Malcolm courses in the area because of him. Under his guidance, the team built the 6th, 7th and 8th holes from scratch and they are Since the passing of George Malcolm, BIGGA has superb. “He knew how treat his team, he was been inundated with tributes for a former Association strict when it was necessary, but was very Chairman, great friend to many and an influential fair and made sure he praised you when member of the BGGA which preceded BIGGA you had done a good job.” Middlesbrough produced a book for their centenary in 2008, and devoted a page to Scotsman George, former Course Manager David Golding, The GTC’s Education George. An extract reads: “George joined in at Middlesbrough Golf Club, hailed from Director, knew George well. He said: April 1964 as Head Greenkeeper, but was Loanhead, south of Edinburgh, and was “During his year as Chairman, he enjoyed ultimately promoted to Course Manager. BIGGA Chairman in 1991. He passed away nothing more than travelling the length This meant he took over responsibilities on Saturday 24 January at the age of 74 and breadth of Britain to mix at Section for all aspects of greenkeeping from after suffering from an illness. level with ‘ordinary’ greenkeepers. Ernie Scott, our Professional at the time. He joined Middlesbrough Golf Club “He was very proud to be elected Until then, Professionals had included – known to everyone locally as Brass BIGGA Chairman as he believed he could greenkeeping in their responsibilities. Castle – in 1964 and apart from a brief spell champion the hands-on, grass roots “We all owe George a debt of gratitude working at Saltburn-by-Sea Golf Club, greenkeeper. for his part in the course developments spent his entire working career there until “He felt that through education and hard which have been completed during his his retirement nine years ago. work, any BIGGA member could reach the time in office. George was with us for 41 He was hugely passionate about position of Chairman.” years (apart from a short break in 1975/76 greenkeeping and educating greenkeepers, George was also heavily involved when he was at Saltburn) and will be and in 1977 helped establish what is now in updating BIGGA’s constitution in remembered for his expertise, dedication the BIGGA Cleveland Section with the 2000 alongside many key figures in and long hours he willingly put in to assistance of the likes of Harry Lees, Roger greenkeeping including Harry Diamond, maintain our first-class course. Shaw and Bruce Burnell. Cecil George, Walter Woods and Jack “George used to ‘put the lights out’ on the He was a member of BIGGA’s Open McMillan. course, watering from a single standpipe, Support Team at Muirfield for the 1987 Ian Pemberton, Course Manager at often when many of us were tucked up in Open Championship, and managed to Cleveland Golf Club and current BIGGA bed!” strike up a conversation with the American Cleveland Section Secretary, worked Tony Smith, former Course Manager at golfer Fuzzy Zoeller as he raked bunkers closely with George during his time at Teesside Golf Club and BIGGA Chairman during one of the rounds. It’s said that the Middlesbrough. in 2012/13, added: “He was a stalwart of pair were firm friends by the 18th! He said: “He was a fantastic mentor and the Cleveland Section and the Association, I owe him so much, I was an assistant and also a great ambassador for both. greenkeeper when he was Course Manager “He was a hands-on greenkeeper who and I learnt an awful lot from him. would work tirelessly, often seven days a “We achieved so much with him week, 12 hours a day. He was always at leading the team and the course was in the end of the phone if you needed a chat, brilliant condition. It held various Youth but remained keen to learn throughout his Internationals attracting a young Nick career. Faldo and Sandy Lyle to compete on the “He was a very good friend to many and course, amongst others. will be sorely missed.” “Everyone thoroughly enjoyed working George was elected an Honorary Life under him. He was a lovely, caring man Member at Middlesbrough when he retired and a real gentleman. He was, and always in 2005. will be, an inspiration to me.” The flags at BIGGA House have been Ian Holoran, former Head Greenkeeper flying at half mast in tribute. George at Middlesbrough Municipal Golf Club, leaves his wife Marion, daughters Fiona said: “He helped his team produce some and Jackie plus son David, who followed really quality holes on his course. This was in his footsteps and is currently a Head quite a feat as all the work was completed Greenkeeper in Germany, and two in-house. He just put so much hard work grandchildren, Mailin and Evie. into everything he did. Rest In Peace, George. “He was very passionate and hugely knowledgeable about greenkeeping, and With thanks to George’s family, Ian very good company. He was a normal Pemberton, Ian Holoran, John Talbot, Tony family man, he enjoyed cars and also Smith, David Golding and Middlesbrough playing golf. Golf Club.

16 GI FEBRUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd FEBRUARY 2015 GI 17 Membership L&D News The latest news The latest from the Learning and News from BIGGA Development department at BIGGA

Membership News - the You can contact BIGGA House, You can also save money Learning & Development and training, supported by funding your future. section which updates you on our Regional Offices, our with our BIGGA Xtra Benefits News has the latest updates our BIGGA Partners, BIGGA Contact the Learning & the countless benefits of being Personal Accident Helpline, scheme. More information can on CPD and everything related Education Supporters and Development team at BIGGA a BIGGA member. We’re on Legal Assistance and our be found in the Members’ Area to greenkeeper education Individual Contributors – House for more information. hand to help. Lifestyle Counselling Helpline. of the BIGGA website.

Contact Details BENEVOLENT Tracey Maddison General Manager traceymaddison@ FUND NOW bigga.co.uk Elaine Jones OFFICIAL Membership Executive [email protected]

CHARITY Rachael Duffy Events & Membership The BIGGA Greenkeepers Executive Benevolent Fund now has official [email protected] charity status. Tel: 01347 833800 After months of work behind the (option 1 for Membership) scenes at BIGGA House, it is now established for charitable purposes You can follow BIGGA on and is on the register of charities Twitter @BIGGALtd number 1160100. It was officially registered on the BIGGA final day of BTME 2015 – Thursday Regional Offices 22 January – and is classified as BIGGA MEMBERSHIP BRINGS a charity which makes grants to individuals for the prevention or relief Scotland & N. Ireland NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES of poverty. John Young The full details please visit 07776 242120 One of the main benefits of BTME, and BIGGA membership, are the [email protected] fantastic networking opportunities open to members. https://www.gov.uk/government/ organisations/charity-commission Northern BTME is the perfect showcase for this with various events taking Sandra Raper place both inside and outside the Harrogate International Centre. BIGGA’s Finance and 07866 366966 Procurement Manager Steve Wragg [email protected] The John Deere TPC Sawgrass Volunteers met on the John Deere @sandra4bigganor CPD MEMBERS AT 985 Stand, as did the Delegates heading on the trip to the Golf Industry said: “This is the culmination of a lot We are heading towards Michael Frappell - Cosby GC David Collins - Lickey Hills GC of hard work and we’re pleased that Midland the 1,000 mark for CPD Paul Mills - Penn GC John Grey - Middlesborough Show in America courtesy of Bernhard. Roger Butler Past Future Turf Managers Initiative candidates also gathered the Benevolent Fund now has official 07525 593 359 Level 3 members. Scott Corrigan - Greenburn GC Municipal GC to swap stories, and many Sections and Regions held gatherings charity status. [email protected] Scholarship All members have a free Matthew Teasdale - Rockliffe George Pitts MG - Yelverton throughout the week. “This will enable us to allocate South East Awarded online account and you Hall GC GC BIGGA General Manager Tracey Maddison said: “The BIGGA stand funds appropriately and we will be Clive Osgood can claim your first CPD Jack Hetherington - Ponteland Simon Olver - Whitley Bay GC 01737 819343 Individual Contributors: was manic during most of BTME, filled with members chatting to the communicating more details to 07841 948410 Wesley Lenihan, in minutes. As GI went to GC December 2014 Steven Tierney MG, Chris Lomas members about this as and when [email protected] Deputy Course print, 985 members were David Langheim MG - Philip Butler - Murrayfield GC MG, Andrew Campbell MG CGCS, BIGGA House team, swapping greenkeeping tales, updating each @cliveosgood W J Rogers, Espen Bergmann, other on news and generally learning from each other. decisions are made.” Manager at Ealing Golf on the CPD (Continuing Wimbledon Park GC Mike Riddell - Chichester GC Nick Gray, Steve Dixon, Richard We’ve been delighted by the South West & McGlynn, Douglas Duguid, Jaey “This is exactly what we’re trying to encourage and if you’re not a Club, has completed Professional Development) Matthew Plested - Muswell Stephen Lawlor - The Duke’s St Goodchild, Michael Beaton, South Wales David Barker, Greg Evans, Frank member of BIGGA, you miss out on all these opportunities.” response from members so far with Tracey Harvey his Level 3 Diploma scheme. Hill GC Andrews Newberry various Sections and individuals 07841 948110 in Work-based Remember – if you Roger Tydeman - Dulwich & Kevin Moore - Whitwood GC raising money for the Fund. [email protected] Horticulture attended Continue to Learn Sydenham Hill GC Leigh Powell - Hockley GC @biggaswsw Contact Details We also had another positive (Sportsturf) at at BTME, or even just the Graeme Roberts - Camberley James Parker - Ranfurly Castle response at BTME 2015 and it was Plumpton College. exhibition itself, you can Health GC GC Sami Strutt WENTWORTH SUPPORT OTHER USEFUL Head of Member Don’t forget to apply for the BMW It’s another superb great to see members contributing NUMBERS Also James claim CPD Credits via our Alastair Higgs - Windlesham Les Howkins MG - Richmond Development PGA Championship support team development opportunity on a during Continue to Learn and the 07818 405606 (Full Members only) Wilkinson of Gerrards more accessible, easier to GC GC [email protected] by 27 March. professional and personal level. exhibition and proudly displaying Cross GC picks up a use scheme. Stefan Carter - Bowood Golf & Ben Shipp - Ely City GC This is another excellent To apply fill in the application their green wristbands! Personal Accident Helpline Scholarship. For more on CPD, and Country Club Wesley Lenihan - Ealing GC Stuart Green 0207 2048952 Head of Member member opportunity to join the form in this issue and return to: If anyone feels they may be James will be if you have any questions, Mark Broughton MG - Hamish Campbell - Carrick Learning [email protected] home team at Wentworth in May. Rachael Duffy, BIGGA House, eligible for a donation from the Fund, Greenkeepers Legal Assistance studying for his please contact the L&D Team Aldeburgh GC Knowe GC @Stuart_BIGGA A course preparation team of 15 Aldwark, Alne, York, YO61 1UF. please contact BIGGA’s General 0800 177 7891 Level 3 work-based or email [email protected] Sam Evans - Oakland Park GC Sidney Arrowsmith MG - Deb Burnett is required 19-24 May, and match For further information and Manager Tracey Maddison on 01347 Lifestyle Counselling Helpline Diploma in Horticulture The latest members to Jamie Blake - Broadway GC Frilford Heath GC L&D Administrator raking takes place between 21-24 to apply see page 56, or contact 833800 (dial 1 for Membership) or 0844 770 1036 (Sportsturf) through be awarded CPD in January James Fox - Trentham GC Ltd Stuart Ferguson - Dundas [email protected] www.arclegal.co.uk/carefirst 01347 833800 (option 3) May. Rachael at BIGGA House. [email protected] Oaklands College. 2015 are as follows: Andrew Hart - Hendon GC Parks GC www.bigga.org.uk

18 GI FEBRUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd FEBRUARY 2015 GI 19 Incorporating:

18-21 JAN 2015 Turfcare Equipment Organised by:

BTME 2015 The Review

BIGGA

For more than 100 years the Kyoeisha Co. of Japan has been making After another very successful three days first-class, high quality, user friendly machinery for its customers. supporting BIGGA and Greenkeeping at Since late 2007 customers in the UK have been sharing in that BTME 2015, Baroness would be happy to Turf experience, finding out just how low the whole life service costs of arrange your demonstraiton so you too can Baroness mowers can be! find out how you can benefit from substantial whole-life ownership cost savings

Kyoeisha UK Ltd. a subsidiary of Management www.baronessuk.com Kyoeisha Co. Ltd. of Japan Tel: 01256 461591 Exhibition BTME 2015

BTME 2015 ...ITS SHOW TIME!

Here we go with our extensive 20 page review of BTME 2015. Read on for a Newsdesk special, interviews with the visitors and exhibitors, and much much more. The buzz really is back at The BIGGA Turf Management Exhibition

Four sold out halls, record figures for education and unrivalled networking opportunities were just some of the highlights of BTME 2015 as BIGGA announced a return to five halls for next year’s exhibition. The Continue to Learn education programme broke all records - at the last count, an initial figure of 2,900 delegates had travelled from across the UK and the world for the hugely diverse range of seminars and workshops. A total of 4,722 visitors also attended the three days of the exhibition at the Harrogate International Centre with the halls particularly busy on the first day. It soon became evident from speaking to exhibitors that Cutting Units and Aftercut the quality of visitors was higher than ever, with key decision Appearances, run by Ian Sumpter makers from all manner of sports clubs, authorities and from Toro and Ben Taylor from associations striking deals throughout the week. Bernhard Grinders, who were both BIGGA CEO Jim Croxton said: “It’s been another fantastic brilliant. This mixed practical skills week and it’s featured record numbers attending our Continue Educating with theory, and was a real eye to Learn education programme which is at the heart of what opener. we are trying to do. “I found the disease management “This year we’ve hosted 215 excellent hours of education, seminars really interesting as they the programme is going from strength to strength and this provided information on active really drives quality visitors to the exhibition. in Yorkshire ingredients and their affects, “We’ve had four sold out halls this year and as exhibitor BTME 2015 saw record numbers of discussed the timing of applications demand continues to increase, BTME 2016 will feature a fifth relating to different disease stages exhibition hall. We’re already focusing our minds towards next delegates at the Continue to Learn education and the transport methods within January.” programme in Harrogate, North Yorkshire the plant. “Next year I’m planning on attending different seminars At the last count, an initial topics and interacting with the based around managing people figure of 2,900 delegates had audience. and dealing with conflicts, as they travelled from across the UK It was also heartening to see were recommended from friends in and the world for the hugely younger greenkeepers attend similar roles at their clubs. diverse range of seminars and the event and prove that, despite “Continue to Learn at BTME is a workshops – up around 4% its title, more inexperienced turf great week, it provides you with the on last year’s already busy managers are keen to attend to chance to learn from schedule. increase their knowledge. seminars, speakers and fellow The week is now so packed with Wesley Lenihan, Deputy Course greenkeepers, meet new faces ‘Mastermind’ on their stand for BIGGA CEO Jim Croxton said: seminars, workshops, conferences Manager at Ealing Golf Club, and old friends while discussing delegates to test their agronomic “It’s been a fantastic week and it’s and presentations that Continue attended the Conference and four industry topics.” knowledge – leading to some featured record numbers attending to Learn is spread across the other seminars during the week The educational theme healthy competition! our Continue to Learn education Harrogate International Centre on subjects ranging from disease continued in the exhibition itself Employer Services Manager programme which is at the heart of and The Crown Hotel throughout control to aftercut appearance. with the likes of Askham Bryan Lee Price said: “It’s been great to what we are trying to do. the week. He spoke for many of the College, the GCSAA, GCMA, STRI catch up with so many worldwide “This year we’ve hosted 215 Once again, the Turf Managers’ delegates when he said: and Merrist Wood College all industry professionals, we have excellent hours of education, the Conference was real highlight of “This was the first time I’ve hosting bustling stands. dozens of new contacts and programme is going from strength the programme with five excellent attended the weekend Seminars at Myerscough College again enquiries to make – in a way the to strength and this really drives Photos courtesy of speakers discussing a range of BTME, I took part in the Adjusting exhibited, and held a greenkeeping hard work starts now for us! quality visitors to the exhibition.” @sirastudio

22 GI FEBRUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd FEBRUARY 2015 GI 23 NEWSDESK every conceivable aspect of greenkeeping and management. Lee’s first professional designation was BIGGA’s Master Greenkeeper (MG) certificate NENews from theWSD week that was BTMEE 2015SK achieved in 2001. Only 65 greenkeepers currently hold MG status – a prestigious award which recognises turf managers who have reached the highest standards of greenkeeping and golf course management. INDUSTRY FIRST FOR Firstly the candidate must acquire 200 of BIGGA’s Continuing Professional BIGGA GREENKEEPER Development Credits, then an on-course inspection takes place under the gaze of two Master A greenkeeper based at gWest, Greenkeepers – similar to the has become the first turf GCSAA award. manager ever to hold a hat trick The third stage involves a case of top industry qualifications study and technical examination. accredited by three worldwide Lee began his agronomic career greenkeeping bodies. as a trainee greenkeeper at Bath Lee Strutt, Course Golf Club in 1984, then enjoyed Manager at the Perthshire spells at Broadstone Golf Club, resort course, is already a Knighton Heath Golf Club and Master Greenkeeper with The Dudsbury Golf Club – where David Cole MG the British International Golf he secured his first Deputy Greenkeepers Association Course Manager role. (BIGGA) and a Certified Golf In 1994 he moved to The Course Superintendent Richmond Golf Club before being NEW BIGGA MGs HONOURED with the Golf Course made Course Manager in 1997. Superintendents Association of He became the construction and 2014 saw two new BIGGA Master Greenkeepers announced – America (GCSAA). grow-in Superintendent at gWest and they were honoured at BIGGA’s Welcome Celebration on the Now he’s become the first in 2008.He’s studied Sports Tuesday evening straight after BTME. greenkeeper in history to Turf Management at Merrist David Cole MG, Course Manager at Loch Lomond Golf Club, achieve a third award, the Wood College, followed by a Post and Lee Sayers MG, Course Manager at Mid Kent Golf Club, Master Superintendent (MS) Graduate Diploma in Sports were presented with their certificates on stage by Chris Sealey from the Canadian Golf Turf Technology at Cranfield and Sir Michael Bonallack. Superintendents Association University. CPD Diplomas were also presented to various BIGGA (CGSA). He was also part of the members. Also, the BIGGA Photographic Competition winner, Lee was presented with his volunteer greenkeeper support Jonathan Wood from Trevose Golf Club, was recognised with MS designation by Christian teams at the 2012 and 2014 his stunning photo shown on stage. BIGGA Life Member Pilon, President of the CGSA, Ryder Cups, and has also worked Billy Mitchell collected a framed version of his photograph on during the Welcome Celebration at several other tournaments Jonathan’s behalf. at BTME 2015. including European Tour events During a highly amusing and entertaining speech, Andrew The greenkeeper, who is now and Scottish Opens. Cotter, keynote speaker and BBC Golf Correspondent, regaled officially Lee Strutt PGdip, MG, Lee has a handicap of 14, and the crowd with tales from his broadcasting career. AGS, CGCS, MS, said: is particularly passionate about He also produced a pitchmark repair tool at one point, endearing “I feel very privileged to become greenkeeper education. himself to the crowd, and praised the industry as a whole for Andrew Cotter the first greenkeeper to He is heavily involved in preparing first-class surfaces for tournaments worldwide. achieve all three designations, several of BIGGA’s continuing and proud of the fact that I professional development represent the UK and BIGGA initiatives. He was the instigator as the first member to do this. of the popular ‘So You Want to Knowing I would be breaking be Promoted’ seminar, regularly new ground was a real presents at Continue to Learn motivator. at BTME and is a mentor for the “The MS was very intense; to Future Turf Managers Initiative try and focus on a whole range Lee (right) with Christian educational event supported by of subjects from agronomy to seeing so many people who Lee first obtained his abilities were validated through Jacobsen. management for the exam with have had an influence on my Accredited Golf Superintendent the development of a portfolio BIGGA CEO Jim Croxton said: the added pressure of having career at BTME 2015. (AGS) designation from consisting of his responses to “I’d like to congratulate Lee on a to answer 300 questions in six “My inspiration and drive the CGSA in 2008. This skill statements, case studies great achievement, we’re all very hours, effectively one every 90 came from one focal point in my was a prerequisite to work and submission of work proud that a very active BIGGA seconds. life. Whilst at school I was told towards the higher Master samples. member is the first greenkeeper to “Without a doubt, I by my form tutor that ‘I would Superintendent designation. Two GCSAA certified ever obtain these three awards. have gained so much both never amount to anything’. Lee also obtained the superintendents also carried “It sets a fantastic example in professionally and personally “This made me very GCSAA’s, Certified Golf Course out an on-site inspection of the industry where continual from this fantastic industry, determined to achieve Superintendent (CGCS) in gWest, this was followed by professional development is learning from my peers and something!” 2014. His knowledge, skills and a six-hour exam covering essential.” Billy Mitchell Lee Sayers MG

24 GI FEBRUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd FEBRUARY 2015 GI 25 Do you want the latest innovation NEWSDESK

in Fantastic prizes CHAIRMAN’S WIN! LUNCH A JOY Do you want the turf fungicide IN THE SUN latest innovation PAVILION in turf fungicide? InterfaceTM with New for BTME 2015 was the Chairman’s Lunch, held in the stunning Bayer invest millions into research and development surroundings of Harrogate’s Sun to create innovative and effective formulations Pavilion. The event, held on the Wednesday lunchtime of the show, aimed to toast the outgoing Chairman alongside the Board of Management, past Chairmen Interface®, Bayer’s broad-spectrum fungicide: The standard in turf protection and Bayer’s most and other stalwarts of BIGGA. powerful turf fungicide to-date. It manages disease BIGGA President Sir Michael • Specifi cally designed for turf and fi ne-tuned to give stress leading to improved turf quality and playability. Bonallack joined BIGGA CEO superior performance. ; All stage disease protection that prevents, Jim Croxton, the current Board of • Incorporating our StressGard™ Formulation Technology. cures and eradicates Management and the likes of Walter • Can be used to prevent, cure and eradicate turf disease. Intelligent Turf Management ; Broad spectrum control including fusarium, Woods, Jack McMillan and Cecil dollar spot, anthracnose, leaf spot, rust and red thread • Controls against 6 key turf diseases for visibly healthier turf. George for the reception. ; Ultimate flexibility - effective year round, even when Chris made a brief speech thanking turf is stressed the attendees, the Board, the entire ® WIN a Brazuca football, PLUS tickets to www.interfacefungicide.com team at BIGGA House and the trade for see England’s 2016 Euro qualifi er against their assistance during his tenure. The Lithuania at Wembley* Bayer CropScience Ltd, 230 Cambridge Science Park, INTERFACETM contains 256g/L iprodione, 16g/L trifloxystrobin. (MAPP 16060).USE PLANT PROTECTION tables were named after Bristol Rovers Milton Road, Cambridge CB4 0WB PRODUCTS SAFELY. ALWAYS READ THE LABEL AND PRODUCT INFORMATION BEFORE USE. PAY Tel: 00800 1214 9451 Fax: 01223 226635 ATTENTION TO THE RISK INDICATIONS AND FOLLOW THE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS ON THE LABEL. FC legends in recognition of Chris’s www.escience.bayercropscience.co.uk TRIPLE RINSE CONTAINERS AT THE TIME OF USE, PUNCTURE AND INVERT TO DRY Enter online at www.bayerbtmewin.co.uk Interface is a trademark of Bayer. © Bayer CropScience 2012. tireless support of his football team. INTERFACE® contains 256g/L iprodione, 16g/L trifl oxystrobin. (MAPP 16060). (PCS 04882). USE PLANT PROTECTION PRODUCTS SAFELY. ALWAYS READ THE LABEL AND PRODUCT INFORMATION Leighton Walker, General Manager of *T’s and C’s apply, please see website for details. BEFORE USE. PAY ATTENTION TO THE RISK INDICATIONS AND FOLLOW THE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS ON Brazuca® is a registered trademark of Adidas. THE LABEL. TRIPLE RINSE CONTAINERS AT TIME OF USE, PUNCTURE AND INVERT TO DRY. Chippenham Golf Club, also contacted Interface is a trademark of Bayer. © Bayer CropScience 2015. GI to pay tribute to Chris. He said: “The Club is very proud of Chris and the time that he has served as BIGGA National AW17598_Bayer-Interface half page ad_180x127.indd 1 16/01/2015 15:57 Chairman. “The opening of seven new holes at Chippenham in May 2014 was also a great success and a credit to Chris. The year has been the icing on the cake of a great career in the industry.” Global Turf UK Situated in Harrogate’s Valley Gardens, a light snow covering YO U R T R U S T E D S O U R C E F O R T U R F E Q U I P M E N T T H R O U G H O U T T H E U K provided a spectacular backdrop outside, although this did mean a fleet of taxis were required to ferry some of the attendees to the Pavilion. Happily, everyone arrived safely and were able to salute Chris’s memorable 12 months as Chairman.

70% Equipment depreciation chart from new In today’s economic climate there is Typical peroid for 50% pre-owned purchases 35% a viable financial alternative 30% 25% to buying and depreciating new equipment 20%

Why not look at pre-owned? Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 Year 5 Year 6

LTURFEQU BA IPM O E L N G T

P• RE-OWNED C Sandbeck Lane, Wetherby, West Yorkshire LS22 7TW. E • Telephone: +44 (0)1937 581111 Email: [email protected] R T D IFI E www.globalturfequipment.co.uk Sir Michael Bonallack (left) with Walter Woods Jack and Rita McMillan

26 GI FEBRUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd FEBRUARY 2015 GI 27 NEWSDESK

NEW A Passion for Quality and Service GOVERNANCE ……….it’s our commitment! STRUCTURE With in-house product development and manufacturing expertise coupled with a VOTED knowledgeable and qualified sales staff, we’ve a rapidly expanding customer base of THROUGH distributors, re-sellers and end users across the UK. Our commitment means you can expect to get optimum results from our products and a level of service to match.

We are seeking distributors in overseas markets for At the BIGGA AGM at our range of wetting agents. JOHN DEERE TPC SAWGRASS DELEGATES BTME 2015 the proposed amendments to the Articles GBR Technology Ltd of Association were approved The Delegates for the first ever John “To work and learn on such Units 6-8, Jupiter House, Calleva Park, unanimously. Aldermaston, Reading, Berkshire, RG7 8NN Deere TPC Sawgrass Volunteer a fantastic stage such as TPC The new Articles provide a Tel: +44 (0)118 982 0567 Programme in May joined forces Sawgrass with a great team GBR Technology Limited hold modern, transparent blueprint Fax: +44 (0)118 982 0590 on the company’s stand in Hall M at will give me the opportunity to the ISO 9001 quality standard for the future governance of the Email: [email protected] BTME 2015. connect with some of the best www.gbrtech.co.uk/amenity Association. The latest excellent educational sports turf staff in the industry and The introduction of offering from BIGGA involved no doubt enhance my level as a consistent terms of office across members filling in an online greenkeeper.” Section Boards, Region Boards application form via the BIGGA The final five will now join and the National Board of website, then completing a the maintenance team at Management will, it is hoped, video application outlining their the legendary venue for the lead to more members getting greenkeeping knowledge, career entire duration of the Players involved in the overall structure aspirations and why they wanted to Championship on the PGA Tour ensuring the business is join the Programme. with travel, accommodation, subsistence and uniform representative of as wide a cross A shortlist was then drawn up, and candidates all provided courtesy of BIGGA Partner John Deere. section of the membership as successful after the video stage then underwent They will even get the opportunity to attempt to hit possible. interviews with BIGGA’s five Regional Administrators, the island green on the course’s legendary 17th hole. The Board of Management BIGGA officials and a representative from John Deere. As well as the five BIGGA members, the Golf Course would like to thank all of The successful five are Michael Burgin from Superintendents Association of Ireland (GCSAI) will the members who took the Normanby Golf Club, Chris McArthur from Portstewart be sending a winning member to join the maintenance time to feedback during the Golf Club in County Londonderry in Northern Ireland, team at TPC Sawgrass, again courtesy of John Governance Review and those Graham Down from Aldwickbury Park Golf Club, James Deere. who supported the proposal Bledge from Royal Cinque Ports Golf Club and Mike David Perdisatt, Senior Greenkeeper at Naas Golf at the AGM, they will be Ellis from The Point at Polzeath. Club in County Kildare, Ireland, successfully came addressing the areas where Four of the Delegates met on the John Deere through the process. transition is required as a stand – unfortunately Chris’s attempts to join them were David also trains greenkeepers and is responsible matter of urgency and will be thwarted by poor weather on the Wednesday which led for 12 students each year, each studying for a Further producing a comprehensive to the cancellation of his flight. However, in the week Education and Training Awards Council Level 4 Governance Handbook that after BTME Chris Meacock, John Deere Turf Division greenkeeping qualification. will offer guidance to volunteer Sales Manager, made the journey to Northern Ireland to David said: ““I was absolutely delighted when I got committee members at all chat to Chris, welcome him to the team and answer any the call to say I’d be joining the team. It’s a really great levels. questions. opportunity to network with other greenkeepers and Chris (inset above) said: “I’m really excited about make connections for my future career. joining the team and looking forward to the process and “My ambition is to progress to superintendent level, experience to better myself as a person. Since I entered so my current role is very good experience for that in in the summer I thought about little else, so winning is a terms of the responsibility for the trainees, exposure to dream come true. budgets and team management. I would really like to “Of course being the only member of the team from offer my thanks to both the GCSAI and John Deere for Northern Ireland is a real honour. With its famous golfing this opportunity. history, not least set by the golfers from Ulster in the “I’ve always been interested in training and trying world game at the moment, I have a lot to live up to! to help people better themselves, and I still do a lot of “I’m really grateful to BIGGA and John Deere for online studying of my own – you can never stop learning providing me with this opportunity. in this industry.”

28 GI FEBRUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd FEBRUARY 2015 GI 29 NEWSDESK NEWSDESK RIGBY TAYLOR PRIZE COMMS MEETING The Tuesday of BTME saw much activity in the Media Centre, downstairs in Hall E. After a series of press briefings from exhibitors, and a touching memorial to Mike Beardall (former editor of The Groundsman) attended by many of Mike’s industry friends, dozens of the scribes who compile the Around the Green notes for GI met to discuss BIGGA’s communications with members of the BIGGA House team. The meeting was chaired by BIGGA’s Communications ANDY BAKER Executive Steve Castle who was supported by BIGGA’s General JOINS BOARD Manager Tracey Maddison and the BIGGA Regional BTME 2015 saw Andy Baker Administrators. officially replace Arnold Phipps- Steve said: “It was a hugely YOUNG GREENKEEPER MEETING Jones as BIGGA’s South East productive meeting and I would Regional Board of Management like to thank everyone who BTME 2015 was the venue for the first ever Mike Ellis – The Point at Polzeath BIGGA CEO Jim Croxton drew the winning Also launched was the latest seed mixture member. attended, and also those who meeting of the Young Greenkeeper Committee. Jack Hetherington – Ponteland Golf Club name for Rigby Taylor’s prize draw to win an R25 CRT (Creeping Ryegrass Tetraploid), Andy, Head Greenkeeper at Ely couldn’t be there but have sent Ten youthful members from across the UK Stuart Imeson – Dunstanburgh Castle Golf OptiM8 ‘Professional’ spreader – a competition which is an exciting 100% perennial ryegrass City Golf Club, said: “I’m looking suggestions and ideas via email. met to chat about their perceptions of BIGGA Club which attracted many entries on their buzzing blend featuring creeping and tetraploid forward to being part of the Board “I thoroughly enjoyed meeting and its role, with the intention of coming up Andrew Naismith – Worthing Golf Club stand. perennial ryegrasses. This leading innovation and continuing the recent excellent some of the scribes for the first with suggestions to feed into BIGGA’s strategic James Parker – Ranfurly Castle Golf Club Rigby Taylor, who are a BIGGA Partner, provides the fastest establishment possible for work that has been carried out. time and it’s clear we are all plan. Scott Roberts – Hankley Common Golf Club enjoyed a successful show which was rounded the renovation and divot repair of high impact There is a great buzz at BIGGA passionate about spreading the Discussions then moved on to the function Dan Simpson – Rockliffe Hall Golf Club off by Jim joining Rigby Taylor’s Mark Whiting playing surfaces. House, with a friendly, energetic, word about BIGGA members’ of the Committee, how often they will meet and Liam Springett – Braintree Golf Club on the stand for the draw. The winner was Jack Trialled and tested at Sports Turf Research dedicated team who I know I will excellent achievements both identifying roles within the committee. Miles Todd – Llandudno Golf Club (Maesdu) Friar, Head Greenkeeper at Percy Wood Golf & Institute (STRI), the combination of Stolawn, enjoy working with. professionally and personally. The Committee aims to engage younger After a welcome and introductions from Jim Country Retreat. Fabian, Duparc and Columbine, also offers “I hope that I can be an “Members’ suggestions are members of BIGGA, and provide the Board Croxton and Les Howkins MG, BIGGA General Richard Fry, Rigby Taylor’s marketing superior recovery, exceptional wear tolerance inspiration to all the younger always taken on board and we of Management with feedback into the needs Manager Tracey Maddison joined Northern director, said: “From a large number of entries, and excellent resistance to drought and turf greenkeepers. We need to will be implementing some of of more youthful members. Each Region will Regional Administrator Sandra Raper to Jack’s name was the first to be drawn and diseases. encourage them to be more the ideas from next month, so nominate two members to serve a two-year facilitate this first meeting. his club will receive a brand new OptiM8 As if that wasn’t enough, Rigby Taylor have involved within the Sections and keep an eye on the magazine!” term. The group raised some interesting ‘Professional’ spreader. also launched three new brochures for 2015 – Regions. Without volunteers at all If you have any feedback on There are 13 members on the Committee, discussion points, went away enthused and “This prize was really welcomed by the club ‘Professional Products’, ‘Landscape Products’ levels greenkeeping wouldn’t be Around the Green, GI or any they are: were tasked with setting up social media as only recently they had their spreader stolen, and a Case study. where it is today. aspect of our communications, Paul Armour – St Andrews platforms to interact with younger BIGGA so the replacement could not have come at a The Professional Products brochure features “I would like to say a huge please contact steve.castle@ Robert Bemment – Immingham Golf Club members. better time.” 160 pages of product user information, thank you to Arnold - he has bigga.co.uk Ashley Brear – Luffenham Heath Golf Club The group will meet in person twice a year The company had a very busy BTME, with technical explanation, disease identification, worked tirelessly over the last Andy Clark – Broadstone Golf Club with regular conference calls also arranged. three new products launched. Firstly they pH and soil analysis advice and much more. four and a half years, dedicating introduced their new Armaline marking Landscape Products contains 34 pages of a lot of his personal time to the system. Specially developed for use with the featured landscape products. New for 2015 Association. Also, thank you to Ely award winning Impact paint, Armaline is a are a complete re-vamp of the company’s grass City Golf Club in allowing me to BTME A HIT FOR HIGHSPEED versatile linemarking attachment for use with seed range of landscapers products. take up the role on the Board, and Highspeed Group Ltd enjoyed what was probably their best BTME this year with an turf utility vehicles. Finally, the independent Case Study describes also to my very supportive family.” innovative ClearWater Prize Draw, the launch of the Carbery Fuel King 2500 litre Fuel For many local authorities, schools and one UK Metropolitan Borough Council’s analysis The AGM also saw Stuart Point and the Z Spray shoe, club and trolley cleaner. training grounds, the multiple marking of of their pitch linemarking practices and how it Greenwood, Course Manager at Group joint MD David Mears said: “BTME is an important event to us and we sports pitches is a time consuming task. Now, was able to reduce its cost per pitch by over 42% North Berwick Golf Club, named were very pleased with the show this year. The organisation was excellent and being with the introduction of Armaline, multiple and save over £16,000 and 36,000 litres of water new Vice Chairman, with Tony next to a much improved catering area helped us too. We think BIGGA has the pitches can be over-marked by one operator in on the pitches it marked. Smith leaving the position of Past formula just right now with a good balance between education and exhibition. We a fraction of time taken when marking with a All three pieces of literature are available Chairman to be replaced by Chris look forward to an even bigger show next year!” pedestrian walk-behind marker. from a Rigby Taylor area representative. Sealey. Highspeed used the show to run a very attractive prize draw. The prize was a free ClearWater system and was open to anyone attending the show wishing to upgrade their wash-off facilities.The stand was very busy and enquirers for ClearWater were Five new BIGGA Life Members announced at AGM soon filling in their entry forms. Highspeed was pleased that BIGGA’s CEO, Jim Croxton kindly agreed to draw the winner on Thursday afternoon. Five new BIGGA Life Memberships Next was Clive Osgood, former Jim Paton, Course Manager at West BTME 2015 also was selected by Carbery Plastics for the UK launch of their fully were awarded at the AGM. First up was Course Manager at Walton Heath Golf Kilbride Golf Club and current BIGGA specified 2500 litre Fuel King bunded Fuel Point through their distributor Highspeed Gordon Brammah, Course Manager at Club, BIGGA Chairman in 2001 and Scottish Chairman. Group Ltd. The tank features a five metre retractable filling hose and created much Hallamshire Golf Club, who was followed BIGGA’s current South East Regional Finally Bill Paterson, former Head interest. “At the end of day one, we were about to leave when a customer came to by Barry Holt, former Head Greenkeeper Administrator. Greenkeeper at Beaconsfield Golf Club, the stand and bought a fuel point there and then!” said David Mears. “An excellent at Burford Golf Club. Fourth Life Member announced was was awarded Life Membership. end to the day”.

30 GI FEBRUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd FEBRUARY 2015 GI 31 eds waste 2 water GCM Jun 14 HV_golf_feb_folio_ 25/11/2014 11:02 Page 1

NEWSDESK

Dates for next year: AMENITY FORUM SPRAYER AWARDS A new amenity initiative launched Successful entrants will be sent 19-21 January 2016 at BTME is set to recognise and a short questionnaire to report on reward the industry’s best sprayer their spraying practices, designed operators. to identify and highlight examples Launching the Awards at of best practice, along with BTME, Amenity Forum Chairman, individual practical tips and advice Professor John Moverley, they have implemented. BAYER SIGN BIGGA highlighted that accurate and A short list of finalists will be 2 YEAR efficient spray application was an visited by a panel of independent PARTNERSHIP AT BTME INTEREST- integral part of the commitment to industry specialists to award the BIGGA FREE OFFER fulfil the Sustainable Use accolade of Sprayer Operator of the EXTENDED* Directive. Year in each category. * To all orders received up Turf to 31st March 2015! The Amenity Forum Sprayer Each winner will receive a Go Pro Operator of the Year Awards Hero action video camera, along are sponsored by Syngenta and with £500 of training vouchers for Management Everris. Sprayer operators are further CPD. The agreement confirming Bayer as a new BIGGA Partner was encouraged to enter one of three Initial entry forms can be officially signed on Bayer’s buzzing stand at BTME 2015. More than just a The turf science specialists and BIGGA have enjoyed an Exhibition categories: downloaded from the Amenity • Sports and amenity turf using Forum website, or available from excellent relationship and the signing of this agreement is boom sprayer any of the Amenity Forum industry intended to bring the two organisations even closer together wash-off system... • Hard and porous surfaces members supporting the Awards. for the benefit of BIGGA members. Thank you to everyone that using vehicle mounted equipment Entry to the Sprayer Operator of BIGGA CEO Jim Croxton joined Darren Brown, Head of • Hard and porous surfaces / the Year Awards has been entered Bayer’s Environmental Science Division, to confirm Bayer as took the time to visit us at Invasive weed species using hand for NRoSO, BASIS and BIGGA BIGGA’s latest Partner. BTME, we hope you enjoyed Also rapidly treats held equipment CPD credits. As well as their impressive stand at BTME which attracted plenty of footfall, Bayer’s Technical Manager Dr Colin Mumford the show and we look forward fuel and chemical – who is a former greenkeeper – again presented a free to speaking to you soon! seminar during the Continue to Learn education programme. Colin, former Head Greenkeeper at North Weald Golf Club spillages... in Essex, followed up last year’s seminar on neonicotinoids with a presentation on innovative solutions for integrated disease management. Reduces water usage by 90% The company also recently hired another ex-greenkeeper, Greg Collins, as a National Account Manager, and they have and qualifies for 100% also regularly supported BIGGA Regional and Sectional Nationwide suppliers of greenkeeping events as well as contributing informative FYA tax allowance technical articles to Greenkeeper International. under the ECA Darren said: “We are really looking forward to growing •Capillary Concrete Bunker Liner and developing our relationship with BIGGA, and see •Mivena Controlled & Slow Release Fertilizers Scheme this partnership as a practical demonstration of Bayer’s •Dried Infill Sand for Synthetic Turf commitment to the industry. A BIG THANK YOU FROM “We both have strengths that, together, will offer us a •Top Dressing Bagged & Loose chance to provide innovative educational solutions for both •Drainage Grits & Gravels DEVON AND CORNWALL turf managers and industry.” Jim added: “I’m delighted that Bayer have chosen to join •Sands and Rootzones ESD Waste2Water Europe Ltd, Devon and Cornwall members would like to thank Masons Kings our excellent Partnership programme and are committed to and Farmura for the sponsorship of a mini bus to this year’s BTME at •Cricket Loam 102A Longton Road, Barlaston, supporting our membership. We will undoubtedly benefit from Harrogate. 11 members travelled up on Monday morning, starting the close ties with an organisation that focuses on researching turf •Grass Seed Staffs, ST12 9AU. England long 400 mile journey, with the first pick up at 5.30am. With a couple protection solutions. of stops along the way, they arrived at the Cairn hotel at 2.30pm. Tel : 01782 373 878 “Bayer’s stand at BTME continues to impress and their Thanks to Jacko for driving once again. involvement in both the exhibition and our education 01228 561982 E-mail: [email protected] Mike Ellis, Devon and Cornwall Secretary, said: “With all the programme brings huge value. I’m very much looking forward www.bordersportsservices.co.uk Web: www.waste2water.com seminars, trade stands and meetings the show was a big success and to working even closer with them in 2015 and beyond.” we will return again next year for more!” [email protected]

32 GI FEBRUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd FEBRUARY 2015 GI 33 BTME 2015 REVIEW

firmed Operations Director Mick both the show and the visitors, Williamson. “Although fewer visi- judging by the reaction from faces tors came on the stand, those that old and new.” did were a better quality of enquiry. Also ringing the changes were We’ll be here next year.” Campey Turf Care Systems – and The buzz Show first-timers Engo Group it paid off handsomely, according from Slovakia have already con- to Managing Director Richard firmed they’ll be booking a bigger Campey. “This year we invested in a presence at BTME 2016 after intro- new stand and a fresh look because ducing themselves to the sector this we believe BTME to be an important year. event in the greenkeepers’ calen- “Our focus was to make our- dar,” he said. “It proved to be an selves known to the market here,” excellent show for us, with genuine is back said Norbert Zatko, “and we’ve interest and many enquiries to get networked with many of our UK the year off to a positive start.” Greg Rhodes joined the suppliers.” The group covers every- “Stand footfall fully vindicated thing from golf course construction The Grass Group’s decision to BIGGA House team for the to greenkeeping services across double the size of its stand this week and reports on how Russia and the Ukraine. Two proj- year,” Managing Director Tim Mer- thriving visitor interest set ects are underway at Strawberry rell (below right) told Greenkeeper Fields and Mill’s Creek near St International. “This is the launch exhibitor pulses racing at Petersburg. platform for our sales activity for BTME 2015 Machinery running costs proved the spring. The season starts with a recurring theme among visitors this show. BTME is highly focused keen to stretch budgets. “A rekin- and is at a convenient time of the dling of interest in gang mowers was year for greenkeepers and grounds- apparent this year,” reported Clive men.” International visitors were in Nottingham (below left) of Lloyds/ numbers as well, he confirmed. Hunters. Clubs have to maximise Strong traditions endure for budgets and we make traditional some though, as line markers-to- machines that carry low running fertilisers group Vitax confirmed. costs, while our grinders allows Taking up their usual position mowers to stay on cut for longer in right by the main entrance, one of the field, boosting performance.” BTME’s longest-standing support- John Deere, Ransomes Jacob- ers enjoyed “another great year”, sen and Toro – Lely (UK) Ltd all Sales and Marketing Manager Mike decided to exhibit at BTME 2015, King confirmed. Commitment to a fifth hall said, “but anyone you see on the albeit scaled down from their usual “We’ve had lots of interest across for BTME 2016 reinforces last day is usually there to do busi- powerhouse stands. our whole range. The new Briteliner exhibitor sentiment that this ness.” Toro reimagined their presence Arrow and TXE line markers were a year’s show marked an upward Johnny Beck, Sherriff Amenity at BTME with a stand alive with hit with visitors, and we sold off the shift in sector optimism. Stand Manager (right), was in bull- new technology that included flat- stand. Salt spreaders hit the mark Hall Q will come back into the ish mood. “I’m delighted to support screen TVs embedded in tables, too, especially on the Wednesday fold alongside halls A, B, C and M what is a well organised and well tablets featuring video presenta- when wintry weather arrived.” to herald a return to pre-recession presented show. The education tions and dramatic main display For County Sport Surfaces this buoyancy as the sector powers sessions are varied and informative screen. was their fourth, and best, year at forward once more. and the BIGGA team are always “Our stand designers have BTME to date. “People once thought A bustling first two days for attentive. We’ve taken quite a few opened our eyes to the possibilities artificial turf was a luxury,” said regular exhibitor Johnsons Sports orders off the stand, particularly of exhibiting at BTME,” said Lely Managing Director Duncan Clark- Seed saw plenty of interest in their for our new Turf Reports system Sales Manager and irrigation spe- son, talking about demand for their special mixtures and in their hourly of recording and displaying course cialist Roger Lupton, shown in the design and installations services, prize draw. information.” main image top left. “but not anymore. The British “BTME is a great `show your face` Amenity Specialist Matthew “The stand concept worked for weather has seen to that.” exercise to support the distribu- Le Brun, pictured inset below us and the new technology we’ve Striving to spread the word about tors,” said Area Sales Manager Phil right, who developed the system introduced has adapted well to creating new life for used artificial Seedhouse. “We’ve seen a lot of confirmed “huge interest” in the representatives this time round.” product, adding: “Data collection LED moving signage proved the is massive but understanding and leads to pursue, Golf Sales Manager major focus for Eagle in its 24th correlating it is the critical factor.” Kneale Diamond revealed. year of attending BTME. Managing Ground2Control’s online Sports industry contractors MJ Director Phil McInley (shown in applications covering all aspects Abbott found that all three days front of his stand, top right) also of grounds management proved were buzzing. “BTME attracts remarked on the high quality of popular too. “The quality was a wide range of consultants, golf visitor. there,” said Marketing Manager course architects and course man- The final day of any show can Jane Ratcliffe. “We exhibited last agers,” Contracts Manager Nathan be a challenging one for exhibitors year and are glad we decided to do George (middle right) reflected, “so as visitor numbers fall away from so again.” we can network with them strongly. the frenzy of earlier days but Steve Irrigation specialists Rain Bird The visitor quality was as high as French, Product Specialist for Europe SNC have exhibited at ever and the general ambience of Tines Direct, put a positive slant on BTME for the last three years and the show has risen too.” Next year’s it. “Overall there’s lots of promise 2015 was once more a satisfying BTME is already in the diary for going forward from the show,” he event for them, with plenty of strong MTS Golf and Utility Vehicles, con-

34 GI FEBRUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd FEBRUARY 2015 GI 35 BTMe 2015 REVIEW

turf were Sports Maintenance Ser- outlay in comparison.” Training Support Cathy McEwan. vices, who reported a brisk show. Golf’s environmental drive “They were trying to include pur- “There’s been very positive interest helped steer visitors to Waste2Wa- chases in this year’s budget, which in our Xtraction recycling process,” ter Europe, where interest in their is very encouraging.” Sales Manager Jason Lewis-Lamb run-off recycling systems ran high. Syngenta always command enthused. Jason is pictured bottom “We received plenty of potential major billing and attract a wide right. orders,” commented Managing visitor spread but this year might “Greenkeepers now have an Director Tim Earley, “and were have turned out to be a watershed. option to buy recycled turf for appli- rushed off our feet, particularly on “Numbers were healthy” said Rod cations such as pathways and driv- the Wednesday. The environment is Burke, Market Manager EAME, ing range mats at a third to a half a hot topic in golf so we benefit from “and the quality of attendees the cost of the new product. Feeder that movement. “I was impressed was fantastic, with a high level of schools take-up is strong and we by the level of expertise of those we engagement. are stressing the importance of an spoke to. BTME is really improving We enjoyed an even more diverse end of life policy on using artificial in that respect.” spread, including visitors from turf, as there is plenty of inherent Sector purse-strings are certainly Dubai and Turkey. value in it for secondary applica- loosening, believes Richard Fry, “The standard of the seminar tions.” Rigby Taylor’s Marketing Manager programme goes from strength Sports Turf drainage and con- (shown below). to strength – it’s very encourag- struction specialists Turfdry were “Visitor quality was very pleasing ing. Our 4pm seminar on disease looking forward to following up “a overall,” he reported. “The optimism management was sold out. What good number” of inquiries after being felt showed through, as did an enjoyable show.” BTME, after the family-run busi- the enthusiasm of those who came After a spell of uncertainty across ness last exhibited at Harrogate in on the stand.” the sector following the economic 2007. “I’m really pleased with the Similarly upbeat, grinder spe- downturn, it seems the good times level and quality of interest this cialists Bernhard & Co recorded are returning to greenkeeping year,” recorded Assistant Manager quality across all three days. and groundsmanship, if exhibitor Matthew Taylor, pictured top left. “Visitors were looking more at our feedback at BTME 2015 is any Development of bunker technol- larger machines,” said Sales and yardstick. ogy continues unabated and the market opportunities were not lost on Daniel Smith of certified installer Better Billy Bunker, which debuted this year in the wake of their work at Gleneagles for the 2014 Ryder Cup. “The education programme is extensive,” he added, “and the show has been really successful for us, with a host of contacts made and leads to follow up.”Daniel is pictured top right. Concerns over health and safety compliance and tougher on-site security propelled visitors to Cleve- land Sitesafe, where Sales Manager John Hodgson said: “When there is so much expensive kit on golf courses and sports grounds, keep- ing them safe and secure is a small

36 GI FEBRUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd Thanks for attending and see you next year 19-21 JANUARY 2016

38 GI FEBRUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd FEBRUARY 2015 GI 39 BTME 2015 Review

added: “There’s the chance to learn a bit here. The job is not just about cutting grass but lots of other aspects as well. Machinery developments have made the job easier but it’s still hard work - we still rake bunkers by hand.” Myer- scough College was out in force throughout the show, spreading news of its apprenticeship schemes and foundation degree course as well as making time to treat local youngsters to a day out. Malcolm Eckton, their Greens- pace Practical Lecturer and Sportsturf Machinery Tutor, was shepherding a throng of 14 to 16-year-olds around the stands to gain some hands-on knowledge of this bustling business. “This is a chance for local young people to really shine,” commented Malcolm about the scheme Myerscough runs. Michael Swann certainly did – the 20-year-old is taking his Level 3 diploma in Sports Turf. His favou- rite part of it? “Finding out about looking after football pitches.” Also attending was amenity specialist Rebecca Turner and col- league Kevin Grieve, who attended the first two days. Covering Sherriff Variety adds spice Amenity’s Yorkshire area distribu- tion, she was searching out “good deals on spreaders and sprayers”. “There’s a rise in the number of smaller set-ups – cricket and bowl- ing clubs -visiting the show for the to BTME 2015 day,” Rebecca added. The weather may have closed in during BTME but the show Turfcare united this year as greens and grounds professionals proved blessedly free of Yorkshire descended on Harrogate to deepen their knowledge and widen their fog, a problem though for Matthew Holden and his team member Rich- outlook, reports Greg Rhodes ard Slater from Sickleholme Golf Club, . “Education is the Successful industry shows time out from their duties to absorb but now resident in Scotland, RIGHT TOP: Alexis Cavrois, biggest aspect for me,” said Mat- adapt to reflect, and the sights and sounds of Harrogate. Steven Dehne was checking out Alain Lessence, Nicolas Boutin thew. “The presentation on bent predict, shifting trends and “We usually attend the Green some familiar machinery when RIGHT CENTRE: Darren grasses was particularly valuable Hargreaves and Alex Luliak developments. BTME can Expo show held near Paris but Greenkeeper International caught as we are introducing pure bents on claim to be doing that in browsed the Internet, found BTME up with him. RIGHT: Allan Black, Richard our greens to create a better surface Slater, Matt Holden big measure as 2015 saw an and here we are,” said Alexis Spending a busy two days and get rid of the Yorkshire fog.” arguably wider cross-section of Cavrois, Technical Manager at the networking with contacts he may Deputy Head Greenkeeper of the turfcare sector attending 36-hole Golf de Boudoiries in Lille. only speak to by phone the rest of Royal Jersey, Allan Black, also than ever before. His colleagues (shown top right the year, the Equipment Manager warmed to the bents session, while Globalisation is alive and kicking with Alex) from Golf de Winereux of Dundonald Links in Ayrshire his boss Ben Blampied-Smyth was in greenkeeping as key shows in the and Golf de Dieppe were also enjoy- remarked on the advances in focusing on soil fertilisers for the international calendar challenge ing their stay. machinery. “Easy maintenance 1,200 member-strong links course, home allegiances. Oaklands Col- Picking up tips for the Finnish walk-behind mowers have been while ryegrasses were looming lege Senior Assessor Steven Allen turfcare sector was Esa Hukkanen one of the biggest initiatives,” he “It’s always helpful to develop was for Alex Luliak, Apprentice large for Mark Jarret, Deputy Head prefers BTME to the lure of San of media outlet Bunkkeri uutiset. said. “They are so much easier to my contacts and to chat exhibitors Greensman, Engineer and Trainee Greenkeeper at Teignmouth Golf Antonio. Unlike the increasingly year-round modify now and you don’t need to who supply us. They like it, as it is Mechanic at Skipton Golf Club, Club, Devon. “There’s so much education to UK golf market, Finland spends carry a toolbox around with you all a show of support for them. Educa- who was attending the show with Here with his Head Greenkeeper, attend here,” he said. ”I’m here for much of the year in deep freeze, the time.” tion is my big focus this year, as Deputy Head Greenkeeper Darren he applauded BTME: “Lots of two days to fit it all in.” squeezing its season into six Numbers seem set to swell next I only took over four months ago Hargreaves. learning opportunities and brilliant Exhibitors reported visitors from months, if they are lucky. “Temper- year if comments voiced by visitors and promised myself to back up my At the club for just six months, networking, plus plenty of chat. Hong Kong, Dubai and throughout atures drop to –20C in winter,” he hold true. work with knowledge as much as Alex, 17, said: “I love fixing What more can you want?” the EU. The French greenkeeping explained, “so we may have three or “I’ll be bringing my whole team of possible.” machines and bringing them up In harmony across turfcare were triumvirate sampling the show on four good months.” The pressure’s four next year,” stated Sam Evans, For younger visitors, BTME to full working order. I gain a real Michael Abbott, Houghwood Golf the first day found BTME a “most on the greens team then! Head Greenkeeper of Oakland Park can be a thoroughly enjoyable sense of achievement from the job.“ Club greenkeeper and Malcolm interesting experience” – taking Originally from `across the pond` Golf Club. and enlightening experience. It Darren, who is a BTME regular, Greenhall, Rugby Club

40 GI FEBRUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd FEBRUARY 2015 GI 41 BTME 2015 REVIEW

groundsman and long-time farmer. Praising the scope and depth Visitors who caught the video TOP LEFT: Simon Tremlin ABOVE: Jonathan Skelton One was searching for a cure for of the education programme, that launched the BIGGA Welcome RIGHT: Crowds mingling at fairy rings, the other keeping an eye Matthew added: “I’d like to bring Celebration on Tuesday surely BTME 2015 RIGHT: Delegates are drawn into open for “opportunities”. some of the members of the club marvelled at its stunning effect in the BIGGA Stand at the back BTME’s groundsman contingent here so that they could appreciate capturing the build-up to the 2014 of Hall B is growing and the feedback is that how much work and technology is Ryder Cup in pictures backed by the show runs at just the right time involved in managing a golf course.” an almost apocalyptic soundtrack. of year for turfcare professionals to Visitors worried over reported The creative force behind it is take time out to check what’s new shortages of sand supplies had James Bledge, Deputy Course and press the flesh. bags of opportunity to quiz contrac- Manager at Royal Cinque Ports Golf Simon Tremlin likes to meet his tors such as Aitkens and Border Club, who spent eight days filming fellow groundsmen here, particu- Sports on how difficult the position the video and two days of editing larly those tending cricket grounds. could become at the customer the footage. He looks after one himself, as Head coalface. “I built the awards video around Groundsman of the 2,500-acre Right at the start of the supply the songs and used time-lapse pho- Wormsley Estate owned by the chain, international quarrying con- tography and fitted a camera high Getty family south of Oxford. cern Sibelco reported a satisfying above the entrance to Gleneagles “I’ve been coming to the show show. “We keep close with our regu- and programmed it to take shots for ten years now,” he said, “and lar contacts throughout the year,” very four seconds,” he revealed. there’s always mates to chat to and said UK Sales Manager Jonathan “The video’s already had 16,000 new developments to see.” Skelton, “but BTME is a valuable views on YouTube. I’m now looking His eight cricket pitches play PR exercise to support the distribu- to develop video CVs. host to top-flight women’s cricket, tors of maintenance products such “The show is one of the highlights including tests and minor coun- as top dressings and rootzones.” of the year for me - networking, ties one-day matches, so he has to Education was a strong strand of education, meeting old friends ensure everything’s just right. the show, he added. “Workshops and gaining ideas for new videos. “We have a great batting track,” and presentations have been excel- Technology interests me too and I he reveals, perhaps created by lent – informative without being love that it’s held in Harrogate, the koroing the surface annually. long-winded. people are so friendly. My five-hour BIGGA Midland Region Chair- “This is a relaxed, busy and well- train journey from the South East is man Matthew Nutter is Course established show. We’ll be back no worry for me.” This was backed Manager at East Berkshire Golf next year. up by new BIGGA Life Member Club and was keen to pick up infor- “Our Belgian-based manager Clive Osgood sitting beside him, mation that would help his wood- finds it very useful too. He picks up who is based in Epsom, Surrey. “It’s land management programme for good contacts, speaking to contrac- no distance,” he added. the heathland course. tors who have work abroad.” Bring on BTME 2016. Thank you for attending BTME 2015 See you next year - 19-21 January 2016

42 GI FEBRUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd FEBRUARY 2015 GI 43 DR TERRY MABBETT

(Lotus corniculatus) behaves in the This month Dr Terry Field woodrush is Professional turf is a tightly- exceptionally difficult to knit grass sward with same way using long grass stalks Mabbett looks at the control using selective herbicides seemingly few openings and for support. most common turf opportunities for invasion by weeds and advises you weeds, but a surprisingly large Crowding out number of plant species with Turf weeds like dandelion, how to deal with them no business in turf continue to common daisy, the plantains and establish and grow. self-heal produce leaves in rosettes Turf weed prowess and achieve- at or just above soil level. Rosettes ment is governed by a range of of leaves lay flat on the ground at botanical attributes alongside a sufficiently low position to avoid breaches in turf integrity that allow cutting while shading out and kill- these dicotyledonous (broad leaved) ing the adjacent grass plants. plants to exploit the environment The large toothed leaves of and ecosystem. Turf weeds are dandelion are super-efficient light simply green plants in the wrong blockers, shading out and smoth- place, and at the expense of fine ering short fine leaves of fine turf turf grasses. grasses. Rosette weeds expand and exploit Keeping a low profile the space around with asexually The meristems (growing points) produced daughter plants gener- of grass plant species are suf- ated directly at the fleshy rootstock ficiently low to miss the mower’s and stem (e.g. daisy and plantain) blades and this is the essential or even more efficiently at the nodes factor underpinning the creation of running stems or stolons where and maintenance of turf. adventitious fibrous roots form to Broad leaved weeds with intrinsi- create new independent plants. cally higher growing points should Creeping buttercup, white clover be dispatched by the inherently (Trifolium repens), and creeping low cutting heights required to cinquefoil (Potentilla reptans) are maintain sports turf in a playable all examples of weeds that spread condition, but in practice many do through turf via creeping stems or escape to survive and thrive as turf stolons. weeds. Parsley-piert (Aphanes arvensis) Weed plant populations contain and dove’s-foot cranesbill (Gera- a range of biotypes and especially nium molle) are two additional turf those species with a high seed weeds spreading quickly via creep- production potential. Close cutting ing stems or runners which may over a long time period will select root at the nodes. out the most prostrate individuals These two weeds favour sandy which go on to generate more of the substrates which of course golf same. greens and golf tees very much Classic in this context is the are. ‘Same but different’ is self-heal dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) which grows and spreads from often seen on tightly managed short rhizomes (underground tees still producing yellow flowers stems). virtually at ground level. But a cut Matt forming broad-leaved weeds too low can be just as damaging as a group are capable of creating as a cut too high, with common substantial patches of weed growth daisy (Bellis perennis) and greater across turf in a short space of time. plantain (Plantago major) being two common weeds which thrive in Coming in from the outside ‘shaved’ and compacted turf. Broad-leaved plants should The capacity of broad-leaf plant rarely get the chance to flower and populations to adapt to a life in turf set seed in turf but low cut mowing is clearly displayed by species pos- over a long period of time favours sessing the prostrate growth habit the survival and growth of prostrate obligatory for turf - but in the wider biotypes that can still flower even at world have a more generous growth soil level. form and habit. Long flowering periods as Creeping buttercup (Ranuncu- shown by mouse-ear chickweed – lus repens) hugs the ground with Cerastium fontanum), ephemeral Dealing with its runners slipping unobtrusively (year-round) flowering, short through turf to root at regular seed-maturation times, minimum intervals. germination requirements and the Contrast this to uncut grassy ability to exploit tiny germination situations where creeping but- sites in turf are all attributes con- tercup grows up to 45-60cm high. tributing to sexual reproduction as Self-heal (Prunella vulgaris) is one an important part in the spread and of the most prostrate of turf weeds establishment of weeds in turf. weeds in turf but can grow up to 20cm high in Most weeds of turf are wide- hay meadows. Bird’s foot trefoil spread in the wider environment

44 GI FEBRUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd FEBRUARY 2015 GI 45 DR TERRY MABBETT

where they can generate heavy seed loads that ‘come back’ to impact on turf. Classic examples are the wind-borne ‘pappus’ (parachute) fruit/seed of dandelion and closely related species like cat’s ear (Hypo- chaeris radicata). Turf weeds are adept at exploiting small germination sites including tiny patches of bare soil caused by wear and tear, turf thinning from leatherjacket root feeding, and damage and holes left by physical removal of individual weeds. Worm casts provide ideal and ready-made germination sites, especially when the seed has been ingested by the worm during burrowing under the turf, and deposited intact inside the cast.

Hitching a ride The ability of running stems or stolons to root at the nodes pro- vides turf weeds with an efficient and effective means of asexual reproduction and spread. Runners may be severed during mowing or raking but the new plant, now inde- pendent via its own root system, survives to form a new focus of weed infestation. Slender speedwell (Veronica filiformis), often called the United Kingdom’s worst turf weed, is a special case in point. Originally introduced during Victorian times as a rockery plant, primarily due to the masses of pretty purple flowers produced in spring, slender speedwell subsequently ‘escaped’ to become a highly successful turf. lems in wet, shaded turf adjacent to Despite its profuse flowering, grassy banks and woodland which the plant rarely sets viable seed is its natural habitat. and owes its wide spread to the of highly specialised turf weeds conditions including drought and ABOVE: Self-heal spreads via Underground at the base of each tiny pieces of stem which root and including white clover, bird’s foot prolonged periods of sub-zero short rhizomes (underground plant is a cluster of tiny bulbils each stems) establishing where they fall during trefoil, yellow suckling clover/lesser temperature. Examples of these with the capacity to produce a new mowing or elsewhere if mowers are trefoil (Trifolium dubium) and so called ‘perennating’ organs are PAGE 47 LEFT - TOP TO plant, especially if detached and shared between sites. BOTTOM: black medick (Medicago lupulina). the tap roots of dandelion and close Common daisy spreads by new spread by digging. As leguminous plants they have relatives like cat’s ear, as well as daughter plants produced at the Self-sufficiency stem base a symbiotic (mutually beneficial) the bulbs of the bulbous buttercup Common daisy spreads by new A wolf in sheep’s clothing Long, hot and dry periods soon daughter plants produced at the association with nitrogen fixing (Ranunculus bulbosus. stem base In its role as a weed of turf the reveal those weeds with a high bacteria (Rhizobium) living in root Perennating organs may also Dandelion surviving and still field woodrush (Luzula campestris) degree of self-sufficiency and the managing to flower on close-cut nodules and furnishing the plants play a part in asexual reproduction. fine turf is a complete anomaly. It is not a ability to withstand drought condi- with self-sufficient amounts of For instance, the underground por- broad-leaf plant and behaves like tions. It is all down to plants that PAGE 47 RIGHT - TOP TO usable nitrate. tion of the dandelion appears to be BOTTOM: a grass (plant family Graminae) can utilise the limited water sup- Restrictions on water availability just a swollen root but any attempt Creeping cinquefoil which although belonging to the family plies most efficiently and more to spreads by rooting at the nodes automatically mean restrictions on to dig out individual plants reveals on its creeping stems Juncaceae. Like true grasses field do with capacity to conserve water Yarrow with its finely-divided the uptake of soil nutrients. Sub- another function. fern-like leaves which are coated woodrush is a monocotyledon with by limiting the rate of transpiration sequent lack of available nitrogen Pieces of tap root left in the soil in wax is the archetypal drought the same exploitative mechanisms (loss of water from the leaves by tolerant weed essentially stops the growth of grass form fibrous roots and develop Bird’s foot trefoil is one of the for space, light, water and nutri- transpiration) than any ability to and all weeds with the exception of into new plants, causing a cluster ‘self-sufficient’ (in nitrate) weeds ents similar and therefore a close of turf absorb water more efficiently from these leguminous plants. That is of small dandelion plants to grow competitor. a dry soil with a low water potential. why large patches of healthy look- from the failed attempt to dig out a Field woodrush is one of the most Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) ing white clover persist through single plant. difficult weeds to control using her- bearing finely-divided fern-like prolonged periods of drought. Another weed spreading in bicide simply because it displays and wax coated leaves from which response to soil disturbance is the same morphological characters transpiration rates are minimal is Staying the course the lesser celandine (Ranunculus and physiological mechanisms that the archetypal drought tolerant A sizable number of turf weeds ficaria). Lesser celandine is not make fine turf grasses tolerant and turf weed. are equipped with food storage widespread in turf but once estab- ABOVE: Greater plantain a resistant to the selective herbicides But there is an associated factor organs which enable plants to lished is difficult to remove. Lesser typical rosette weed having widely used to control broad-leaf which operates within a group escaped the ‘blade’ and still survive adverse environmental celandine causes protracted prob- managing to flower weeds.

46 GI FEBRUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd FEBRUARY 2015 GI 47 Feature COATED SEED

The system is fully compatible with all www.advancedtt.com main-stream makes of triplex greens mowers and lightweight fairway mowers, as well as ATT‘s dedicated SIMPLY pedestrian unit - INFiNiSystem™. UNIQUE That’s the TMSystem™. Whatever the maintenance objective there is a SMART cassette to meet the need. For consistent green speed firstly use the SMARTUltraGroomer™. Now that the grass is upright SMARTCut™ will execute a clean cut. Lastly run over with the SMARTVibe™ to true-up the surface. Improve air circulation; help moisture retention and give the plant more light.

SMART cassettes for ultimate turf 10 management Coated seed TM and bent grasses aerate brush de-thatch groom level mow scarify top dress

However, due to this weather the to non-seed coated J All Bentgrass. improve species transition signifi- bent sward with high thatch level) seed germinated and in-filled the Acceptable turf quality was cantly. DLF plans further trial work How STRI trials backed by DLF Trifolium found that were oversown using the Graden Graden lines in a few weeks with achieved one month earlier with the to investigate. coated seed can help bent grasses establish quicker CSI system (remove organic matter, all bentgrass mixtures germinat- seed coated seed and was visibly Note: The area chosen for this back fill with fresh rootzone and ing equally within 20 days from better than uncoated Bentgrass for trial had a very high level of organic seeds in one operation) in July oversowing. a further five months. matter present, as this if often Sustainability is currently stages of plant growth. Fertiliser ABOVE: Results of the Ji All 2012 at approximately 4 g m-2. Bentgrass Therefore, less optimal germina- By the end of the trial period where oversowing with bentgrass a buzzword and the more is coated onto the seed meaning As iSeed is heavier it was BELOW: iSeed tion and establishment conditions all plots showed a similar level of seed is most challenging. sustainable the sward the the germinating and developing expected that around 50% less were required to elucidate the content but confirmed that the Previous research has shown better. A key problem that seedling receives the benefit, not iSeed was sown in plots compared potential differences among the iSeed parachuted the new seed into that multiple oversowing some greenkeepers face is the surrounding plants. This is to uncoated seed plots. treatments. By August 2012 the growth much earlier due to its own operations are required at the same that Poa Annua cannot be particularly important when over- July was chosen to represent an weather conditions were judged to nutrient. time as organic matter removal maintained sustainably – it seeding into a competitive sward. ideal time to establish new seed and be the best conditions for a second Throughout the trial, J Velvet before beneficial effects in sward has a high demand for water The STRI was selected to carry obtain recovery most quickly, but trial. Bentgrass did not provide any species composition change is and fertiliser and is prone to out the trial and their Trial Report the summer of 2012 was mild and Primo Maxx (400ml ha-1) was extra benefit in terms of closure of observed. disease and thatching up if not was completed on behalf of DLF wet. cared for adequately. Trifolium in 2012. applied on 24 August in prepara- Graden lines compared to other Therefore, it is unsurprising that Therefore to increase sustain- It was officially titled ‘The effect tion for this a second oversowing seed mixes. two oversowing operations did not on 31st August trial, again with the But at the end of the trial this provide a significant change in this ability, greenkeepers can increase of oversowing bentgrass, with or BELOW: Chlorophyll Index the proportion of perennial grasses without seed coating, using the Graden CSI. mixture had significantly higher Graph trial. in the sward. Johnsons Sport Seeds Graden Sand Injector on seedling Establishment within the content of Bentgrass in the sward. parent company, DLF Trifolium germination and establishment in Graden lines allowed ‘heal-up’ and In part due to the more invasive wanted to determine the effects of managed amenity turf’. closing of the lines more quickly in habit of this type compared to the oversowing a Bentgrass/annual This trial aimed to determine any plots oversown with seed coated Ji other bentgrasses in the trial. meadow-grass sward with different difference in seedling germination All Bentgrass - up to 4 four weeks The conclusion of this bent grass Bentgrass seed mixtures. and establishment among different earlier compared to non-coated research was that the establish- Their belief was that putting new bentgrasses, with or without seed bentgrass seed. ment of the bents with the iSeed seed into an existing turf bed would coating, following oversowing with This was shown in the subjective coating was up to month quicker see that turf taking nutrient away the Graden Contour Sand Injector Graden line closure assessments than non-coated seed and would from the new seed. It followed then (CSI) in golf-green turf with high and turf quality scores and the help to bring areas of play back that their nutrient coated iSeed organic matter content. objective chlorophyll metre assess- much more quickly. would be beneficial during the Trial plots were to be sown with ments. It was also the opinion of the transition process. [1] Unsown, [2] Manor, [3] Jorvic, [4] Therefore, the addition of the STRI that based on the results it iSeed is a patented seed coating J All Bentgrass, [5] Ji All Bentgrass seed coating provided extra ben- would be reasonable to assume that focuses on improving nutri- seed coated and [6] J Velvet Bent- efit by decreasing the ‘heal-up’ time that a combination of the J Velvet ent utilisation during the early grass mix. All plots (50/50 Poa/ post Graden treatment compared blend and the iSeed coating would

48 GI FEBRUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd FEBRUARY 2015 GI 49 JOHN DEERE FINANCIAL

Last month we looked at how greenkeepers can finance their fleet using planned replacement finance. Now we look at the various payment options

Finance case study: Mundesley Golf Club

Mundesley Golf Club, close to the north Norfolk coast is described by finance director Reggie Shreeve as “really a small village course.” The club recently completed a 1 + 6 John Deere Financial deal with dealer Stuart Edge of Ben Burgess. This was for six new John Deere machines including mowers for the tees, greens, fairways and rough, a Gator and a compact tractor, plus other ancillary equipment. “After a long and thorough process, we elected to go for a full replacement package deal, including an agreement on fixed servicing costs,” said Reggie. “In dealing with Ben Burgess and John Deere Financial, we particularly appreciated their flexibility – because they’re committed to the industry, they understand small clubs’ requirements such as ours and they built the package around what we could afford. We recruited our Head Greenkeeper Richard Plummer a year ago, and straight away he made a couple of suggestions on what was needed and where we could save a lot of time, particularly mowing the rough How to finance and grass banks. “Richard has one full-time assistant and one part-time, and with these new machines both their productivity and the quality of your fleet: Part 2 course presentation have increased.”

Equipment finance payments for the maintenance and insurance value and the claiming of capital maintenance and insurance of the enjoy lower rental payments, ability to spread VAT across the life can be made using the normal of the equipment. allowances. equipment. paying only for what you use, rather of the rental agreement range of credit options if There are a couple of key than the full cost of purchasing the • None of the uncertainty and required, or on a tailor made Key benefits of hire purchase Finance lease benefits of finance lease (in equipment. At the end of the rental effort associated with remarketing repayment schedule to match • Certainty that the finance Although you never gain owner- addition to those for hire period you return the equipment. used equipment. individual budgets and cash agreement cannot be withdrawn ship of the agreement, a finance purchase): However, as with the finance flows. The normal range of as long as you continue to abide lease is similar to hire purchase in •Enhanced business cash lease option, VAT is payable on each Additional key benefits of finance options includes: by the terms and conditions of the that you make regular fixed repay- flow, with the ability to spread rental rather than at the outset contract hire contract. ments over an agreed period. VAT across the life of the lease of the agreement. Although you • Known running costs; Hire purchase • The regular nature of repay- A key difference is that VAT is agreement cannot claim capital allowances, extending the principal of You pay the VAT due on the ments and a fixed interest rate payable on each lease payment •A straightforward form of you are able to offset rental pay- fixed interest costs, this type of equipment at the outset and make make budgeting easier. rather than paying the full VAT due leasing which leaves you in a ments against any taxable profit. agreement goes further and fixes regular fixed repayments over an • A cost-effective way to fund on the equipment at the outset of position to control the used In addition, John Deere Financial all equipment usage and servicing agreed period. Once all repayments acquisitions. Using a traditional the agreement. equipment value contract hire is an operating lease costs for your business have been made, you become the bank overdraft to fund equipment Another key difference to the hire that also includes a professional • Lower repair costs with owner of the equipment. purchases can result in a growing purchase option is that while you Operating lease & contract maintenance package. preventive maintenance. For tax* purposes you are treated hard core of debt that can prove cannot claim capital allowances, hire Although a dealer maintenance as the owner from the outset of the more costly to your business in the you are able to offset the lease Operating lease is different to The additional key benefits of plan will not cover the cost of finance agreement and can there- long run. repayments against any taxable both hire purchase and finance operating lease are repairs outside warranty, the fore claim any capital allowances • A straightforward form of profit. lease options in that you do not • Enhanced business cash flow likelihood of a major breakdown available (*consult your tax advisor financing which leaves you in Once again, as with hire pur- repay the full value of the equip- with lower payments than for hire is reduced with more regularly for details). You are also responsible control of both the used equipment chase, you are responsible for the ment over the rental period. You purchase or finance lease, and the maintained equipment.

50 GI FEBRUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd FEBRUARY 2015 GI 51 Feature SWEDISH COURSE

Swede dreams

After nearly two years as Course Manager at Ingelsta Golf Club in Sweden, International BIGGA Member Warren Clements explains how he’s kept the greens to a high standard while fighting the long harsh winters, the economy and limited pesticide use

After several years as Deputy the best putting surfaces by implement this at Ingelsta but the we were achieving a true roll and We wanted to provide the same hectare with the feeds, as research Course Manager at Ealing Golf implementing similar maintenance weather forced me to wait. It took stimp speeds of 10. With local standard of greens in the winter as has shown that Primo helps grass Club, in early 2013 I was given regimes from what I learned and five months to achieve full recovery courses averaging 7 or 8 on the we do in the summer to appeal to protection and recovery during the opportunity to become adopted from Ealing. after implementing an overseed stimp we now had happy members golfers and bring in business, while and after ice and snow as it helps Course Manager at Ingelsta of Penn in the spring along with and guests. However, with another at the same time prepare them for carbohydrate storage in the leaf. Golf Club in the suburbs of A testing start ongoing topdressings and a steady winter fast approaching I knew the winter. Having heights of cut From October the height of cut Norrkoping, south Sweden. I officially started my role in April feeding programme. another challenge was ahead! raised in the winter was not the was 3mm and the greens contin- It was an adventurous move, 2013 just as this part of Sweden In fact, I went for the unorthodox Ingelsta is only course in the area factor to protect green surfaces, in ued to look healthy. With one or I knew it would progress my experienced one of its worst win- approach of overseeding the worst that traditionally stays open during my view it’s all down to the plant two cuts per week we were still career and I could also join my ters, with snow and ice cover lasting damaged areas on greens with a tee the winter. Unless there is snow health itself. I was confident our producing stimp readings of 8 or girlfriend out there. up to five months. Temperatures Rye mix with the Bents to produce cover or early white frosts present feeding programme would sustain 9, combined with keeping play on Ingelsta is a 3557m 12-hole par during this period reached as low a response while the slower growth normal greens are open thanks to low heights of cut and play on grass tees. Because we’re 12 holes 46 parkland course with USGA A4 as –30C. rates of Bent grew in. Mowing at a well drained USGA construction. greens throughout the winter. that you can play in two hours we Penn greens and fairways. Along The course was completely this time was minimal, at a height Many courses in Sweden close or We applied weekly foliar feeds of managed to attract golfers in the with a driving range, two putting brown and the greens suffered of 4.5mm. use temporary greens. Since the golf Sulphate of Ammonia at 20kg per very short daylight we have here. and chipping greens, a short game severe damage from ice burn and boom from 2000 to 2006 a hundred hectare from September. Through- Amazingly, we were cutting area and a short kids’ course the prolonged snow cover. Winter golf and the economy courses were built in Sweden to out the winter, when conditions greens four days before Christmas practice facilities were excellent. Combined with dry windy In September 2013, after a meet the perceived demand. Then, were suitable, we applied 20kg of with temperatures around 8C - so The greenkeeping team consists weather the greens then started second overseed of a Penn mixes, the worldwide economic slump hit hi K Potassium Nitrate with about unusual in Sweden it caught the of myself and one other full-time to suffer from desiccation with no we had full coverage of 80% creep- LEFT: Warren clements carrying Sweden too. 10kg soluble Iron knowing this attention of the local media. greenkeeper in the winter, and we option of irrigating as our lake was ing bent and 20% Poa. For me, out a greens performce check Recorded golf club memberships would provide the plant enough Featuring on TV about the mild add two seasonals in the summer. frozen, so we had to resort to apply- the Annual Poa which invaded the TOP RIGHT: The ryemix and dropped 30%. Many courses (like essential nutrients for health and winter was good promotion for us bent growing in on the 5th green With the course still under a ing water from a 300 litre spray greens was not a problem and I had spring 13 us) ended up with very small mem- vigour. and golfers flocked to the course metre of snow in February 2013, tank. the experience of managing it with berships and had to rely on green As we were trying to achieve as over the holidays. to produce a course report I had In the UK I was used to main- the bents. fees and sponsorships. Business much growth back on the greens in to study photos to identify areas of taining greens at a high standard We lowered the heights of cut to was very slow in the summer and the summer we did not apply Primo Snow cover improvement. all year round with a good main- 3mm and we were mowing daily. we had to up our game in the winter Maxx, but we applied Primo in the Not knowing what the winter My main aim was to produce tenance backup. I wanted to Along with rolling every other day for income. winter at a weekly rate of 100ml per may bring we had to be prepared

52 GI FEBRUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd FEBRUARY 2015 GI 53 SWEDISH COURSE

Toro® Cylinders 10% OFF ENDS A Genuinely 28FEB Better Cut For a genuinely better quality of cut that delivers superior after-cut appearance – insist on genuine Toro cylinders.

Only genuine Toro cylinders: ✓ Balance perfectly with genuine Toro bedknives ✓ Reduce the need for constant cylinder grinding ✓ Allow for more effi cient mowing operation ✓ Produce the cleanest cut, promoting healthier turf ✓ Give you the best after-cut appearance possible

Available in fi ve sizes: 5, 7, 8, 11 and 14-blade confi gurations. Talk to your Toro dealer or service centre today! Visit toro.com/locator to fi nd your nearest stockist.

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

Toro Commercial Products are distributed by Lely (UK) Limited, St. Neots, Cambridgeshire PE19 1QH. Tel: 01480 226800 | Email: [email protected] | www.lelyturfcare.co.uk | www.toro.com

TP0104 Greenkeeper Int CS Cylinder.indd 1 23/01/2015 09:21 for snow and timings of procedures a total ban in place in Denmark, planning to spray on the course, ABOVE: Ice burn damage are crucial. countries like Sweden will face a the rates of applications, and how Point of Play We planned to give the greens a nightmare to control disease and many times each product will be Tee Markers spike and apply a preventative fun- disorders especially from the affects applied. Drive towards recycling gicide a couple of days before it was of long snow cover. from £3.95 forecast to prevent diseases such Thankfully, at the moment, there 2014 in summary as Pink snow mould, and hope that are five fungicides available in We’re now focusing on a greens permafrost was present the ground Sweden - Sportak, Amistar, Medal- maintenance programme that EaglePlex Bin with optional as this acts as extra protection for lion, Banner Max and Headway. consists of monthly verticuts of ball washer and tee plate the plant. For other pesticide use Merit Turf is 1.5mm below followed by small This procedure was carried out in available for insects and Roundup but often sand dressings of 5 tonne EaglePlex Marker January 2014 when the first snow for weed control. per hectare, organic granular feeds Hardwood fell, but fortunately it was only on Unfortunately, the only two selec- in spring and mid summer and Option the ground for three weeks and the tive Herbicides available, Starane weekly foliar feeds of NK, Iron and greens pulled through well with no and Tomahawk, carry the same now primo. Optional logo plate signs of disease. active ingredient (Fluroxlpyr) which This has led to fast, firm and

If snow cover was going to exceed has a damaging affect on creeping true putting surfaces and healthy Recycling sections Lift up Lid the 60 day survival rate, plans bent grass species. swards. We’ve hit consistent green Tee Caddy Marker were put in place to remove or With our fairways and most of my speeds of 12 throughout the play- melt the snow off the greens using semi rough and surrounds sown ing season, and to my surprise natural methods such as covering with bent we’ve resorted to cultural we’ve had no disease outbreaks. the snow with leaves we collected methods. Weed control on the The only fungicide we applied was in the autumn to cause a radiant streets, open wastelands and parks before snow back in January. effect from the sun melting away are restricted so weed invasion onto As I write the course is open and the snow down to the grass sward. the course from surrounding areas on full greens with no extreme Manufactured in the UK Upright Marker Removing snow manually was not is uncontrollable. We have to focus cold temperatures or snow, but an option as I’d heard this causes on getting a good sward of grass who knows what will happen next! at the Eagle Plant more damage on the surface of the cover in all areas of the course to There is a long way to go and by the greens by tearing up grass attached prevent this. time you read this article we could Hardwood from £225 to ice under the snow. According to new laws, every golf well be a metre under snow. course here must apply to the local If you are interested in follow- CONTACT EAGLE FOR MORE INFORMATION EaglePlex from £179 Pesticide use council for a licence to spray. For ing my work in Sweden please t + 44 (0)1883 344244 e [email protected] w www.eagle.uk.com (+ Delivery and VAT) Octagonal Marker With the increase of pesticide the licence to be granted we have to visit my Facebook blog page restrictions across Europe, and inform them of every product we’re Ingelsta gk Agronomy.

54 GI FEBRUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd FEBRUARY 2015 GI 55 WENTWORTH 2015 Join the BMW PGA Championship support team

Now is your chance to apply to join the volunteer BIGGA greenkeeping support team for the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth in May

BIGGA has provided a support A course preparation team of 15 is Light clothing and refreshments team for this event for many required 19-24 May. Match raking are provided and a small marquee years and volunteers are again takes place 21-24 May. is provided as a base adjacent to the required for all four days of For the first two rounds there are first fairway on the West Course. this the flagship event of the approximately 52 match rakers, Please note that no accommoda- European Tour. and for rounds three and four, 40 tion is provided at this event. The 2015 tournament is between are needed. To apply, please fill in the applica- 21-24 May, and an early morning This is another superb develop- tion form and return to: prep team of 15 volunteers are ment opportunity on both a profes- Rachael Duffy at BIGGA House, required for the full week as back up sional and personal level, with a Aldwark, Alne, York YO61 1UF by to Kenny Mackay and his team at fantastic camaraderie developing the closing date of Friday 27 March the prestigious Surrey venue. between the team. 2015.

Name I am available for: ...... Full week...... q Golf Club ...... Thursday...... q Position Friday...... q ...... Age...... BIGGA Membership Number Saturday...... q ...... Sunday...... q Home address ...... Preference given to members who can do most/all days ...... Yes No ...... I have been a BIGGA member Email Address for more than three years...... q...... q ...... Mobile Number I serve, or have served in the last three years, ...... on a Section/Region Committee...... q...... q

Please email in a head and shoulders photo to I have attended three of the last five BTMEs...... q...... q [email protected]...... q Polo shirt measurement; chest...... I am/have been a member of the Open Are you available for the Early Morning Prep team from Championship Support Team...... q...... q Monday?...... q I have been a member of the BMW PGA q q

IMPORTA N T I FO Championship Support Team......

Note: A place on the team is open to all full BIGGA members but priority will be given to the more active members. We welcome applications from members from all Regions, but priority will be given to members from the South East. Please ensure that you have spoken to your golf club or Course Manager/Head Greenkeeper prior to applying and you are definitely available. To apply please fill in the application form, enclose a passport photograph and send to Rachael Duffy, BIGGA House, Aldwark, Alne, York YO61 1UF. The closing date is Friday 27 March 2015.

56 GI FEBRUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd FEBRUARY 2015 GI 57 DURABUNKER Durabunker Dives in Amenity with ‘The Shark’

Tennessee National Golf Club, a signature Greg Norman Design managed by Troon EvenSprey Golf, recently became the first course in America to undertake a major bunker renovation project in conjunction with UK based Economical and EfficiEnt company Durabunker Ltd. The former world number one, known as The Great White Shark, said of the course: “I’m very proud”, A choice of two battery-powered spray machines designed for easy just as Durabunker Director Rhyd- ian Lewis is now equally proud to be operation and efficient, economical performance. Both machines are associated with the venue. Durabunker, formerly known ideal for applying liquid fertilisers and treatments to turf and other surfaces. as Envirobunker, is a patented bunker construction method that uses recycled synthetic material to build revetted bunker faces and EvenSprey 300 edges, offering significant cost and maintenance savings, a design life • 4-wheel machine with 1600mm • Handlebar controls – instantly adjustable of over 20 years and many other wide spray boom spray pressure benefits over traditional construc- tion methodologies. • 30 litre tank capacity • Can be used with full boom or just right Phase one of an exciting 32 hand boom (boom folds away for easy Equipped with a 1600mm double bunker project was completed in • transportation) November 2014, using a combined independent spray boom team from Durabunker Ltd and • Spray lance for spot treatments SouthEastern Golf, the contractor Back to tank agitation of choice for Greg Norman Design. course. Everyone to a man has been UK who prefer to carry out renova- • Andrew McClintock, Course blown away by the result achieved tion work in house, the US market • Rechargeable 18 amp/hr battery pack Manager at Tennessee National, through using Durabunker, both does rely more heavily on contrac- • Pneumatic grass tyres said: “This is a first class venue, but the product and the company have tors to execute projects. the resounding message coming performed exceptionally for us. “Having input from our own from the members was that our “The company director was on highly experienced team, some of bunkers were letting the golf course site throughout the first phase of whom have worked with this prod- down. the project, which was re-assuring uct since before its introduction to “We have large revetted bunkers for us. Durabunker staff were very the market in 2011, was important that were in a sorry state and hands on, leading the construction for Tennessee National. required rebuilding every three and shaping work and ensuring “However we are equally happy to EvenSprey 250 years. The labour and maintenance quality standards were met by our work with clubs who wish to carry joint teams. I cannot recommend out bunker renovation in house, burdens were huge and have Lightweight 3-wheel machine Shurflo pump actually resulted in many of the the product, the staff or the com- utilising their own staff and exper- • • bunkers from the original design, pany highly enough”. tise. ” • 25 litre tank capacity • Rechargeable 7.2 amp/hr being filled in. Rhydian Lewis, Director at Dura- Andrew added: “Durabunker (enough for 500m²) battery “It was recently agreed that we bunker added: “We communicated has had a dramatic impact on the would actively look to increase our closely with Andrew before we golf course and the feedback from • Equipped with a 1115mm • Pneumatic grass tyres won the contract. We presented a the membership has been over- spray boom membership and we realised that to Optional spray lance achieve that goal it was imperative number of options and we worked whelmingly positive. The financial • Handlebar controls to find a solution to the problems hard to ensure that we were able benefits are also considerable, we • we suffered with our bunkers. We to deliver the project within a fairly will realise a return on investment wanted to maintain the integrity stringent budget. by the end of year three. of the original design, with revet- “We recognise this as a crucial “In the current climate there are ted bunkers being central to the part of working with any client, and few courses immune to financial character of the course, but felt it as such always ensure that we fully pressures, Durabunker is a method call 01530 510060 just wasn’t sustainable. We then understand the requirements of to build high quality, long lasting found the one viable solution to our the golf course before recommend- bunkers, at a reasonable cost. problems – Durabunker. ing the appropriate working model. “Our maintenance overheads or visit www.vitax.co.uk for more information “The product has absolutely This can vary from full contractual will be dramatically reduced and transformed our bunkers, they services to part managed projects the product will also have a positive look incredible, so natural and and even licence agreements. impact on our bottom line – it really totally in keeping with the golf “Contrary to many courses in the is a win win situation!” 2015 amenity and Sports turf Product catalogue noW aVailaBlE

58 GI FEBRUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd FEBRUARY 2015 GI 59 REVOLUTION IN BRORA Revolution: A strong foundation for sustainable Better Moisture Distribution golf course management

Deep in the highlands of Scotland lies Brora Golf Club, a true traditional links course Better Playability designed by famed golf course architect James Braid. The northernmost of all Braid- designed courses, Brora is brimming with unique charm and personality

Natural burns allow water to Proper moisture management structure of the Revolution run through the course, which is critical as the club is wide open molecule holds a thinner film of is home to acres of beautiful and exposed to the elements. available water more completely fescue, marram and other Weather patterns change quickly around the soil particle while unique features, including a and constantly in the Scottish allowing excess water to move railway that comes into play highlands, meaning a soil deeper into the soil. The balanced on the tenth tee. surfactant program must be able air to water ratios help to provide a The golf course houses 17 or so to perform under a wide variety of healthier soil environment which Better Soil Health cattle and around 100 sheep, all climactic conditions. According to provides proven benefits for the of which roam free throughout the James, Revolution helps to keep the plant in the face of abiotic stresses. year. Electric fences protect the moisture in his greens remarkably “Revolution’s unique plant greens from hoof damage; however, consistent, rain or shine. health benefits, as measured as locals will tell you, animal Since introducing Revolution by Dr Erik Ervin at Virginia droppings are treated as casual four years ago, James has Tech University, include higher water! witnessed several key areas of production levels of chlorophyll Course Manager and BIGGA improvement. Dry patch, once a, antioxidants and amino acids member James MacBeath a major problem for the course, which boost the turf’s ability to manages Brora in a manner has been all but eliminated. Sand survive stress conditions.” that reflects its rustic charm. He splash from bunkers on the edge of Dr Stan Kostka, Director and his team work with limited greens and constant cutting over of Technology and Business inputs and have taken steps to those areas were weak and bare, Development at Aquatrols, implement more sustainable turf this also has been eliminated. The confirmed that “Revolution management practices at Brora. traditional, undulating features also improves the conversion of For example, all top dressing and of the links course used to create organically bound nitrogen to plant bunker sand is taken from natural havoc. High points used to dry out available nitrogen” as research dunes located on site. too quickly while low points were has proven at the University of The course uses only about 45kg invaded by moss and left bare. Wageningen in The Netherlands. Better Root Growth of Nitrogen per hectare each year, Now, the course has complete and The improved playing conditions the majority of which is derived consistent turf coverage on both at Brora Golf Club are readily from an early season application of high and low areas. apparent, according to Graham 8.0.0 dried blood, hoof, and horn. An antiquated irrigation O’Connor, who serves as the Area In addition, the course makes system once meant that the club Manager for Farmura. He said: “A The World’s a maximum of one fungicide relied heavily on hand watering. visit to the links at Brora Golf Club application towards the end of the However, that too, has been is always a great treat for me. The Leading year if and when conditions arise. virtually eliminated thanks to course always seems to be in great Soil Surfactant Despite these limited inputs, Revolution. James added: “The condition. James and his team do James and his small team are able greens ‘winter’ extremely well, a wonderful job.” to produce consistently optimal meaning members and visitors According to Graham the playing conditions. What’s their enjoy consistent, high quality appeal of a true links course like secret? James credits much of greens for 12 months of the year, Brora lies in its rustic charm and Brora’s success to a monthly which is what I believe all Course atmosphere. That aura is matched Revolution program. Managers and Head Greenkeepers by the tried and true approach The club makes seven monthly are trying to achieve in all but to sustainable turf management Revolution applications each impossible climates.” embraced by the team. Graham year, beginning in February and Tom Malehorn, Aquatrols concluded: “I find the team’s continuing through August. James International Marketing Manager, commitment to sustainable said: “I like to make sure that the explained that these benefits are greenkeeping practices quite www.aquatrols.com profile is nicely hydrated prior to typical of a successful Revolution infectious. I’m delighted that we the drying north easterly winds program. are able to contribute in some way that arrive in April.” He said: “The unique, patented to the success that he achieves.”

60 GI FEBRUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd Section there is a helpline available to all BIGGA members with advice on a whole Welcome New Northern Notes host of issues eg Legal Advice, Lifestyle Counseling and Online Support – these numbers are on the Membership page of this month’s magazine. Members Please email your notes to All the latest news from your Section, steve.castle @bigga.co.uk by the 10th in your new-look notes pages... Chris Hodgkinson, Course Manager, Carus Green Ltd, of the month Thanks to Sponsors John Parry, Greenkeeper, Wrexham Golf Club, Christopher Moores, Greenkeeper, Macclesfield Golf Club, Richard NORTHERN Stanwix, Greenkeeper, Bamburgh Castle Golf Club, Chris A great big thank you to our Christmas sponsor Bob Wild who Jones, Greenkeeper, St Annes Old Links Golf Club, Myles, provided a fantastic prize table and Ade Holroyd for his work on the day Davies, Assistant Greenkeeper, Heswall Golf Club, Josh and involvement through the year. Crackett, Assistant Greenkeeper, Blackwell Grange Golf Club, Alastair Greenfield, Affiliate, Tyneside Golf Club, Around the green SHEFFIELD Vincent Jensen, Deputy Course Manager, The Mere Golf Thanks go to Mike Brear and Rigby Taylor for sponsoring the Resort & Spa, Jack Rank, Greenkeeper, York Golf Club, Christmas Golf Day and to Russell Latham and Premier Pitches for the Jonathan Brown, Greenkeeper, Hanging Heaton Golf Nearest The Pins. We would like to thank all our 2014 sponsors without Club, Christopher Gotts, Greenkeeper, Clitheroe Golf Club, into the penultimate round when the greenkeepers who the events could not take place. Stuart Lyon, Greenkeeper, The Mere Golf Resort & Spa, managed to scramble a lead thanks to Whamology and Dan Wilkin, Assistant Greenkeeper, Dunstanburgh Castle superior pudding knowledge! it was a hard fought match NORTH WEST Golf Club, Jordan, Rotherforth, Assistant Greenkeeper, with Cleveland section legends such as Bruce Burnell and The section would like to thank all of the section sponsors for the Scarcroft Golf Club. Northern Ian Holaran taking part. continued support that they provide, thank you. Thanks are extended to TLS and all their staff for organising another great evening and to the staff at Billingham Synthonia Cricket Club for their hospitality.. It was a great night and special thanks go out to Terry EAST MIDLAND Charlton and Alan Morton who take the time to plan the I hope all of you enjoyed BTME 2015. Lots going on pre night and the turn out just showed how much the section Harrogate, and I’m sure lots to follow from Harrogate. I appreciates their efforts. myself missed the Turkey Trot changed at the last min to January is always a difficult month to write about with Midland Beedles Lake, thank you to Tim and all the staff there for nothing much happening around the section. Judging by accommodating us and making a very enjoyable day for Contact your Section correspondent with news, some of the great pictures on the Facebook page 2014 seems all. I hope you enjoyed the Mulled wine at halfway and did events or anything else for Around the green... to have been a good year let’s hope 2015 can eclipse it! anyone find a golden nugget in their Christmas pudding? Talking of golden nuggets, I have a voucher to give away NORTHERN to a lucky reader of this section? All you need to do is email Our final event of the year was the Christmas bash at me your place of work, contact details and the lucky winner the splendid Rawdon Golf Club in Leeds. A good turnout will be selected at random, with an adjudicator at the next of approx 35 enjoyed a great day out with the format being section meeting. a four man texas scramble. The draw was made by our RIGHT THEN CALLING ALL EAST MIDLANDS NORTH EAST NORTH WEST CLEVELAND NORTHERN SHEFFIELD North Wales chairman John Watts so it was all above board! We made it Contact your Section correspondent with news, MEMBERS - we have been challenged to a match V Midland Glen Baxter Tom Wood Anthony Andy Slingsby Ian Whitehead Pete Maybury glen.baxter@ & Tim Johnson McGeough andy.slingsby98@ admin@ petemayb66@ a little interesting by having two drives each which made life events or anything else for Around the green... section, who is up for it? Who fancies the challenge? Date rigbytaylor.com tomwoodtmw@ amcgeough@ googlemail.com hillsborough aol.com and venue TBC please either email myself or another gmail.com/tim_ aol.com golfclub.co.uk a tad tough. [email protected] A massive thank you to all the guys who made the effort committee member! and made the day a success. Ade Holroyd from Bob Wild Results from the December competition: 1 C Weir & M Events Coming Up was on hand with Mr Watts to present the prizes from Anderson, 2 G Skinner & R Hartley (BANDITO), 3 J Baker a fantastic prize table. Each player received a prize, two and P French. NP went to M Price, J Dunn and J Baker. CLEVELAND nearest the pin and an extra prize going to John Waite for Voucher is £20 John Lewis Voucher for the giveaway! Wednesday 25th February Barry and Ali’s Quiz night to be held at the best Christmas jumper. To the disapproval of the room BB&O - The Stick MID ANGLIA MIDLAND EAST OF ENGLAND EAST MIDLAND Remember to email in any news from the section or bboscribe@gmail. Darren Mugford Dave Collins Steve Beverly Matt Gilks planned events to me - email [email protected] Teesside Golf Club 7.00pm start it was my team of Gary Feron, Chris Goodall and local com or Matt Nutter d.mugford@ greendave2004@ steveimmingham@ [email protected] greenkeeper Dan Reece who took the first prize! bbosecretary@gmail. rigbytaylor.com hotmail.co.uk aol.com NORTHERN Geoff Sutcliffe, the greens chairman at Rawdon was very com Thanks to Sponsors The first golf day is confirmed and will be at Selby Golf Club on complimentary about us and will gladly welcome us back in Monday 27 April. The first tee will be at 1pm. the future. Rawdon were very welcoming, looked after us all Events Coming Up MIDLAND day and we can’t thank them enough. A big thanks to our wonderful sponsors and this month MIDLAND SHEFFIELD After the golf we held our AGM. John Watts went through we would like to thank Burrows for sponsoring our January Midland Regional Conference at Stonebridge GC, Birmingham/ The Section AGM is being held on Tuesday 10 February at The Grange the business matters and a good debate was had. We are page. Also thanks to our February page sponsors ALS, and Coventry near NEC on 25 February. Please contact Roger Butler on Golf Club in Rotherham from 6.30pm. We would ask anyone interested in happy to report that the committee is now back to full thanks to Banks Amenity for sponsoring the prizes at the 07525 593395 to book. progressing the Section to come along and get involved as we need some strength and should be ready to move forward with the new Spring Tournament. We are very grateful to all our sponsors Spring Tournament at Gaudet Luce Wednesday 20 May. Starts at new Section committee members who can drive events and get people guys being very positive. for their continued support. there. The 2015 fixtures are: Abbeydale Golf Club - 14 July; Tankersley Regarding the price of the events this year we agreed that a 12:30. Cost £25. Closing date for entries 6 May. 18 Hole Stableford Golf Club - 17 September; Waterfront Golf Club – 3 December. If you reduction to £15 instead of £20 will encourage more people to please contact Rhys Thomas to book or at www.biggamidlandsection. EAST MIDLAND co.uk didn’t get your booking form from the BIGGA Stand at BTME they will try and make it as well as the afternoon tee off times. Thank you to the sponsors of the Turkey Trot - Rigby be emailed out after the AGM. Make sure we have your mobile telephone Taylor, Countrywide and Jenko number for text reminders and your email address for entry forms. SHEFFIELD News Congratulations to Gordon Brammah who was NORTH WEST nominated by the Sheffield Section for BIGGA Lifetime Welcome New Midland Members MIDLAND The Campey Turf Care pro-am will be taking part at Hart Common Membership for his dedication in promoting our Hopefully everyone who went had a great BTME (not too many sore Golf Club on Tuesday 21 April. Please contact Julie.Campey@ Association, our congratulations and thanks to you Gordon. John Lawrence, Groundsman, The Edgbaston Priory heads I hope!), it’s early doors in 2015 so news is a little light this month campeyturfcare.com or [email protected]. Club, Anthony Knight, Groundsman, The Edgbaston Priory but a big congratulations must go to Harvey Brooke at Redditch GC who NORTH WEST Club, Tom Pardoe, Groundsman, The Edgbaston Priory has been promoted to Deputy Course Manager. The section would like to take this opportunity to thank Club, Steven Whitfield, Groundsman, The Edgbaston Priory Please guys - if you have any news call us or email us on contact News Anthony Davies MG of Prestbury Golf Club and Paul Club, David Lawrence, Head Groundsman, The Edgbaston details above and we will do out best to get it into the write up. Pearce Of Warrington Golf Club for all of the hard work and Priory Club, Jack Leek, Assistant Greenkeeper, Millbrook If anyone has any ideas please don’t be afraid to share, also follow CLEVELAND support they have given to BIGGA and to the greenkeeping Golf Club Limited, Alexander Frith, Assistant Greenkeeper, us on Facebook and twitter where we are building up a good online The TLS Greenkeeper v Groundsman Christmas Quiz held on 17 world, we wish them all the luck in the world on their future Park Hill Golf Club, James Quinn, Assistant Greenkeeper, community. December was won by the Greenkeepers. The quiz was all even going adventures. With this in mind we’d like to remind all that Pryors Hayes Golf Club.

62 GI FEBRUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd FEBRUARY 2015 GI 63 Around The Green

Tony Bremer Treasurer, Ashley Allpress Secretary, Roger Big thanks to the team from HQ, another great show. Tydeman Regional Representative, Scott Roberts Golf If anyone on your team is not receiving Section emails please ask Events, Andy McEvoy Education, Lewis Birch, Ron Christie, them to contact me to supply their addresses (j.goodchild@bowood. Alistair Higgs, Sam Bethell and yours truly will represent org). South East the section for 2015. Congratulations to Les who became BIGGA Chairman South West at BTME 2015, after putting Surrey firmly on the map. We Thanks to Sponsors wish Les every success in striving forward and setting new SOUTH WALES benchmarks in our industry as National Chairman. & South Big thanks to all our patrons for their fantastic support through last year. Results Wales SOUTH WEST SURREY Many thanks to our South West Section 2015 Patrons: Greensman, Contact your Section correspondent with news, Guildford GC hosted The Turkey Trot on the same day as Contact your Section correspondent with news, Irritech, Headland Amenity, Countrywide, Farmura, Ecosolve and events or anything else for Around the green... the AGM. Results: The Boys 55.5 points 3rd The Dorking events or anything else for Around the green... T H White for their continued and valuable support of South West Duo, Tony Bremmer,Andy Fowler 56.9 points. Section events and training. Finally a big welcome to H. Curtis & Sons, Longest Drive Les Howkins MG and Nearest Pin Gareth machinery and equipment dealer based in Bristol who have joined the Roberts. South West Section as patrons. Thanks to Matt and all the team for preparing first class surfaces and all the staff at Guildford GC for a warm welcome and ensuring we all had a great day. Welcome New Members Home Counties Secretaries V Surrey Greenkeepers at John Murzyn, Greenkeeper, Manor House Golf Club at Castle The Berkshire. Victory 4 ½ 3 ½ to the Secretaries SOUTH WEST – SOUTH COAST – DEVON & SOUTH WALES SURREY KENT SUSSEX EAST ANGLIA Essex LONDON Jaey Goodchild Russell Riley, CORNWALL Andrew Hatcher Coombe, Liam Harries, Assistant Greenkeeper, Ferndown Golf Club, Mark Day Rob Holland Chris Mick Lathrope Arnold John Wells j.goodchild@ rriley@countrywide Cameron Mcmorrin andrewhatcher1@ mark@ premiergolf Humphrey lil.lathrope@ Phipps-Jones j.wells1@sky bowood.org farmers.co.uk cjmcmorrin@gmail. msn.com Robert Preston, First Assistant, Manor House Golf Club at Castle daylinks.co.uk 2012@hotmail. chris@collier- ntlworld.com essexbigga@ .com com co.uk turf-care.co.uk talktalk.net Thanks to Sponsors Coombe.

SURREY Events Coming Up Welcome New International Members Events Coming Up Thanks to all the trade who have supported us throughout 2014 these include Avoncrop, Ernest Doe, Strap line under logo: Bunkers For Life SOUTH WALES Paul Willoughby, International Member, Golfcentrum Amsteldijk KENT JSM Ltd, WGM, Countrywide, Complete Weed Control, The spring seminarStrap will be lineheld at at Royal bottom Porthcawl above GC contact(Netherlands), details. Maurice The Thorn, Solution International to Bunker Member, Golf Face Club 10 March - Royal St. Georges Golf Club Rigby Taylor, Lister Wilder, Symbio, Godfreys, Profusion, on 5 March, a flyer will be sent out with details of cost and Grand-Ducal (Belgium). 14 May - Faversham Golf Club Thompson Perrot&Lobb, Compliant Grounds, Greensman speakers. and Edge Erosion. 24 September - Walmer and Kingsdown Golf Club and Big Jim from Grass roots. 26 November - Redlibbets Golf Club SOUTH WEST  Design Life 20+ Years Please get your names in early for all events, particularly Royal St. A valuable opportunity for certified chainsaw operators Welcome New Member  Significant Cost and Maintenance Savings Georges, now as numbers are limited. to undertake refresher training has been organised for  Resistant to Extreme Weather Dean Winfield, Greenkeeper, Pine Ridge Golf Club. March. Dates are yet to be confirmed allowing flexibility in  Prevents Sand Contamination LONDON scheduling. Please contact Paul Worster (paulw@mgcnew.  Resistant to Burrowing Animals 2015 Golf tournaments: Spring and Summer will be at Highgate and  Permanent Fixed Edges co.uk) or Stuart Bowman ([email protected])  Environmentally Friendly Bush Hill Park but we’ve not confirmed which way round yet. Xmas for details.  Granted International Patents tournament will be at Moor Park. Please keep an eye out for the South West fixtures list to The Big day is at Oakland College Smallford on Tuesday 17 February be published shortly. In the meantime here is a summary of with 4 great speakers covering the V’s first with by John Ross MG on the year’s events: Vibration and noise at work. Second is Steve Chappell on Volunteering News and 18 March - Turf Club at Thornbury Golf Centre and the Ryder Cup, third is the first ever Master Greenkeeper Laurence 16 June - Rigby Taylor Team Challenge at The Players Pithie on Vision, and last but not least STRI’s Stella Rixon on Variation Club changes in GK in the last decade. photographs 22 July - Golf Management Trophy at Minchinhampton 2015 Education: We have another short session on Wednesday 25 Golf Club “In 40 Years at this course, Using the Durabunker Method to Build Bunkers February which is free and includes refreshments at Mill Hill Golf Club, 10 September - Summer Tournament and National is the Most Spectacular Change Made.”Tony Cartwright, Course Manager, Seaton Carew GC 12.30 until 2pm - ‘Chemicals/getting the best performance from them’ Qualifier at Bristol & Clifton Golf Club with John Beck and Mike Williamson of Sherriff Amenity. wanted 18 November - Regional Conference at Somerset County On Wednesday 18 March the well-known Billy McMillan will be talking Cricket Club about and demonstrating the Dry Jet sand injection system at Muswell 15 December - Christmas Tournament at Marlborough Hill Golf Club. Golf Club All of our Section events are open to members of other SURREY sections, please feel free to contact us and attend as Walton Heath GC Regional Dinner March 2015. everyone is welcome. The Solution to BunkerBunkers Face and For Edge Life Erosion News News

LONDON Snap happy with a camera or keen SOUTH WALES Harrogate was a great few days and for all the London Greenkeepers to air your views? Please send your Former Head Greenkeeper Dennis Archer of Whitchurch that went I hope you gained from the experience, and for all those that news and photos in to your section Golf Club sadly passed away on 6 January aged 77. missed it there’s always next year. correspondent or Steve Castle Condolences to his family at this sad time. ([email protected]) by the 10th SURREY SOUTH WEST The Surrey AGM was held on 19 December at Guildford GC. of each month Yet another BTME has passed and yet again a large The Solution to Bunker Face and Edge Erosion Chairman Les Howkins MG gave an in depth report on section affairs contingency from the south west made the pilgrimage to and handed the reigns to newly elected Surrey Chairman David [email protected] Harrogate. It was great to see all of you there and those that Tel: +44 (0)1656 336576 Langheim MG. were not able to make I would highly recommend the event. www.durabunker.com

64 GI FEBRUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd FEBRUARY 2015 GI 65 GI_FEB15_ROM_DURABUNKER_1.2.indd 1 03/02/2015 11:05 Around The Green

Well done to Ian Smith on receiving the Patrons Award at the recent luncheon at Stirling Golf Club. A good day was had at the Bernhard Grinders demo day hosted by Keith and his team at the Galloway on 4 February. Scotland On a sad note, two days into 2015, Ayrshire golf was in mourning on receiving the news of the passing of Champions Farol Ltd are now dealers for of Champions title holder and Greenkeeper Gary Bryden. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and colleagues at Trump Ammann, Yanmar and Cormidi Turnberry. Used Golf & Grass plant equipment: Please contact Ian or myself with any news or upcoming events. • 1T - 10T Excavators & Diggers NORTH Machinery After all the festivities hopefully everyone is back in full swing • Rollers & Compactors getting their courses ready for another golf season. • Professional Golf Equipment • Tracked Carriers/Dumpers Contact your Section correspondent with news, I hope that all who went to Harrogate enjoyed themselves and events or anything else for Around the green... came back full of knowledge and with stories to tell. • Fairway mowers, greens and tees Congratulations to Bob Mackay and his team on being awarded the new European Tour matchplay event in late July. This is mowers, Gator utility vehicles etc. just reward for all the hard work that Bob and his team have done at Murcar over the last three years. The course is in superb • Walk behind greens mowers condition throughout and will be a fitting test of links golf for the top European players. CENTRAL SOUTH WEST OF EAST NORTH WEST Our new committee structure is in place with George Mitchell Visit our website to see our regularly Gordon Moir SCOTLAND Scott Corrigan Robert Patterson Stuart Taylor and Neil Sadler now on board and getting involved in all aspects of Gordon.moir@ Amanda Dorans & scottcorrigan4@ grassman351@ stuart.taylor@ standrews.org.uk Ian Smith aol.com aol.com glasgowgolfclub. the north section committee. amanda.dorans@ com updated used machinery listings at: lochlomond.com As we now have a new committee in place we will endeavour to / iansmithgm@ have more section news available in the magazine. hotmail.co.uk www.farol.co.uk/groundcare Events Coming Up CENTRAL George Pendrich is leaving his job as Course Manager at Milton Common, Thame, Oxfordshire 01844 278843 FarolLtd @FarolLtd NORTH Scotscraig GC to explore another avenue in the turf industry. Hinckley, Leicestershire 01455 638960 George was a regular participator at Section and Regional events The annual conference on 3 March is fast approaching and and will be missed. Shefford, Hungerford, Berkshire 01488 648552 hopefully we will have a large turnout from the section. This e-mail: [email protected] Meanwhile, at Ladybank GC, congratulations are due to Colin Midhurst, West Sussex 01730 819981 is also a great opportunity to gain more CPD credits with your Powrie, who has been promoted and had his title changed to attendance. Byfield, Daventry, Northamptonshire 01327 264844 www.farol.co.uk Course Manager from Head Greenkeeper. As a result Dave Gray WEST has risen to Head Greenkeeper and Dave Cooper to Deputy Head Greenkeeper. I should bring to your attention the Scottish Conference to WEST (Committee Member), Jimmy Neilson (Committee Member) and be held once again at Dunfermline on 3 March, some excellent Well the weather recently has certainly prevented a few of our Bruce Watson (committee member). speakers have been found so I would recommend attending. Cost members from venturing out, although I did notice 2 past captains The section wish to congratulate Steve Hulme (Murrayfield GC) will be £35 per ticket with lunch included as usual. playing the other day on frost greens covered in snow carrying full on his selection as part of the BIGGA Bernhard Delegates trip to Spring outing will be held at Clober Golf Club sometime in sets of clubs. Texas, again thanks go to Bernhards for their continued support May as usual, hopefully not when I’m in Turkey playing golf. The News and May I pass on a thanks to my team for all their efforts last year of this event, excellent news and great to see an East Section Autumn outing is planned for September as usual with a date still and hard work in preparing the course, let’s hope we get as good a delegate on the trip again. We look forward to reading Steve’s to be set but the venue will be East Renfrewshire Golf Club. season and weather as last year, thank you. report on his return. And last but not least, I will report on how things went at Anyone with news added or anyone willing to write a short EAST photographs Harrogate in the March issue, but until then I hope everybody has topic of interest for the GI Magazine then please get in touch. Scottish Conference 3 March - Dunfermline a good start to the year and keep well. Again a reminder that if your contact details have changed please Section Outing 16 April - Longniddry GC A point for discussion, what events do the members of the feedback ASAP. Scottish Open 9-12 July - Gullane GC association reading these words wish to be arranged or organised Scottish Golf Championship 6 August - Portlethen GC wanted on their behalf? Welcome New Scotland Members Section Willie Woods Tournament 19 August - Broomieknowe What areas of discussion do you want to talk about, height GC of cut, growth regulators, different fertilisers, or just about the Paul Hampsey, Course Manager, Trump International Golf Section Outing 22 September - Cardrona GC changing times of the golf industry? Scotland, East Section AGM October - Venue TBC I recently read an article by club managers about the challenges Jamie Aitken, Greenkeeper, Archerfield Golf Links, Annual Xmas Soiree in December – Venue TBC ahead in regard to retaining club members and it was quite an Paul Murray, Greenkeeper, St Andrews Links Trust, eye opener. Golf clubs will have to find ways of meeting the needs Daniel Karlsson, Student, SRUC (Elmwood), and demands of the members and greenkeepers are part of that News Ryan Bell, Assistant Greenkeeper, Glencorse Golf Club, process. Ian Whitehorn, First Assistant, Crowborough Beacon Golf Club. Snap happy with a camera or keen to air I should probably state my own case but will relate some of my SOUTH WEST OF SCOTLAND thoughts in the next issue, until then please contact me on the Great to catch up with everyone at Harrogate and as ever, a your views? Please send your news and numbers below with your own views. diverse education programme catering to all was on offer - well photos in to your section correspondent Please do not hesitate to get in touch if you have any events done to Team BIGGA! or Steve Castle pending, sponsored walks, weddings, or births, you can get in Snap happy with a camera or keen to air A warm welcome to all of 2015’s committee members – Frank ([email protected]) by the 10th of touch by phoning 01419 425554 or 07790 823914, or by email on Clarkson, Derek Wilson, Iain Barr, James Parker, Keith Aitken, your views? Please send your news and [email protected]. Dave Woodbyrne, Graeme King, Ian Smith and Amanda Dorans. each month photos in to your section correspondent Congratulations to Euan Grant on his new position south of the EAST or Steve Castle border. Over the years he has driven education and always been a Section Committee: Jamie Martin (Chairman), Phil Butler ([email protected]) by the 10th of fantastic support to the Section members – Best of luck Euan! (Vice Chairman), Stuart Ferguson (Secretary/Treasurer), Scott Congratulations to Allen Patterson on his new role at Trump each month Corrigan (Education Officer), Alan Campbell (Communications Turnberry Resort – welcome to South West of Scotland Section. Officer), Grant Frogley (Committee Member), Grant Moran

66 GI FEBRUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd FEBRUARY 2015 GI 67 s Trainin er g p C e o Greenkeepers Training e m

k m

n

i The organic fertiliser for rapid

e

t

e t

e Committee r e G This month David Golding, GTC’s Education Director gives a post-renovation recovery!

Q d progress report on the Government’s Trailblazer initiative u re ality Assu

The old saying, “mighty oaks could have an influence on policy from little acorns grow” or and the Standards for Greenkeep- “great things may come from ing. small beginnings” could easily In February 2014, the GTC were be used within the world of approved as a Trailblazer Organisa- greenkeeping. tion and the last 12 months has So many of today’s top Course seen them involved in Downing Managers and Head Greenkeepers Street receptions as well as being began their illustrious careers as involved in two reforms with other youngsters often with an interest employer led organisations, many in golf or just preferring to work of whom are large employers better l Soft granular form outdoors. known as “blue chip companies”. l Fast breakdown There are many fine examples This status has positioned the l High in humic acid of individuals who have become GTC in the driving seat to design l Rapid establishment greenkeeping ‘legends’ starting off apprenticeships to ensure they as poorly paid apprentices. But include the skills and knowledge their appetite to learn new skills required for the future greenkeep- and pick up knowledge at every ing workforce. the missing piece that makes all the difference! opportunity has seen them become The GTC immediately called icons for others to aspire to. on golf club employers, large and Over the years when I’ve met indi- small, greenkeepers, representa- 01223 597834 | [email protected] | www.headlandamenity.com viduals new to greenkeeping and tives from the Quality Assured asked them their personal goals, Centres and Awarding Bodies such they often reply, “I would like to be as City & Guilds to help shape the Course Manager at St Andrews or new apprenticeship Standards. days in the sixties when I started life another very prestigious course”. BIGGA and England Golf have as an Apprentice Greenkeeper and The Home of Golf and many other both been major supporters of there were no formal courses, only high profile golf courses have been the Trailblazer project and David a week at Bingley at the end of three years working on a golf course. maintained and managed by leg- Croxton, Proprietor of Cold Ashby The GTC is funded by: ends of greenkeeping. The one thing Golf Club became the Chairman of a The development of greenkeep- they all have all in common is their GTC Apprenticeship Reform Group. ers relied heavily the commitment commitment to their own and their A Technical Working Group was of Head Greenkeepers, and any team’s education and training. also established with representa- education seminars arranged by Apprentices and apprenticeships tives from BIGGA, including Les the then Associations, BGGA, have been the very foundation that Howkins MG, the new Association SIGGA and EIGGA. The volunteers greenkeeping and golf course man- Chairman, and turf tutors who were giving their time to the Associations agement have been built on over charged with working to new Guid- today would be called Trailblazers many years. ance to write new Standards for the and we shouldn’t forget their work. The delivery of knowledge has also professions within Greenkeeping During the late sixties and changed whether it is as part of the and Golf Course Management. seventies training courses were apprenticeship programme, a HND The current apprenticeship developed by Agriculture and Hor- or Degree. Over the years many Frameworks have been success- ticulture Colleges, starting in Scot- people have contributed to devel- ful but the Trailblazer project is land and spreading across the UK. an opportunity to not only review It took years for Greenkeeping to be oping a range of work based and Contact Details college based specific qualifications the current content of the appren- identified as a specialist sector and receive due recognition by Award- which are now available through full ticeships, but reform them in David F. Golding GTC Education Director ing Bodies such as SCOTVEC (now or part time attendance at college, accordance with the new Govern- and Standards Director, WE WORK HARDER TO online, Distance Learning or in the ment Guidance. The Guidance is Greenkeeper Training SQA) and City & Guilds. The 2014 Trailblazer project will GIVE YOUR TEAM AN EDGE workplace. continually being updated, but as a 01347 838640 allow the sector to retain its position To ensure the apprenticeship Trailblazer you expect this as there [email protected] Sharp mower blades mean better, healthier playing surfaces. And the and ensure there are apprentice- and all qualifications and educa- is much to test and trial along the GTC sharpest mower blades are achieved using a Bernhard grinder. tion and training courses are fit reform journey. Aldwark Manor ships aligned to all levels of green- Near Alne keeping occupations. for purpose, the GTC has received You might ask why did the GTC York We offer the best equipment backed up with a dedication to the highest YO61 1UF support from all quarters. not wait until other industries had levels of customer service, training and education. (And did we mention This has become apparent worked through the reform pro- www.the-gtc.co.uk Next month David explains how the www.greenkeepertraining.com the most generous warranty on the market?) with the Government inviting all cess, it might have been an easier devolved powers in Government are industries to become Trailblazer process. In suggesting the GTC going to test industries attempting organisations. We submitted an might ‘tick all the boxes’ to become to develop National Occupational You can follow the GTC on Call us on +44 1788 811600 to find out more. Alternatively visit www.bernhard.co.uk application to ensure our sector a Trailblazer, I remembered the Twitter @TheOfficialGTC Standards for their sector.

68 GI FEBRUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd FEBRUARY 2015 GI 69 BUNKER CONSTRUCTION DRAINAGE IDRRRAIGINAATIGONE TREE MOVING

To advertise contact Golf Course Drainage Golf Course Drainage www.benburgess.co.uk James Specialist BUYERS’ GUIDE Survey / Design / Installation / Greens / Specialists in quality used Fairways / Bunkers / Complete Courses For fast and friendly UK Plastic Pipe / Turfdry Drainage System Golf & Turf machinery To advertise contact James on 01347 833 832 on 01347 833 832 service call: John Deere, SCAG, BCS, SCH, Wessex, Oxdale, Timberwolf, For fast and friendly Nationwide Service Kubota, Tanaka, Ransomes, Charterhouse, Major, Club Car Melvyn Taylor & many more machines currently in stock or email [email protected] or email Contact Melvyn Taylor: 01283 551417 on 01283 551417 07836 259133 / [email protected] or 07836 259133 Categories... AERATION / AGRONOMY / ALL WEATHER SURFACES / ANTI SLIP / BUNKER / CONSTRUCTION / [email protected] www.turfdry.com www.turfdry.com CLOTHING FOOTWEAR / COMPACT TRACTORS / CONSTRUCTION / DRAINAGE / HEDGES/TREES / IRRIGATION / IRRIGATION CONSULTANTS / LAKE CONSTRUCTION LINERS / MACHINERY WANTED / RUBBER CRUMB / SOIL Norwich 01603 625370 FOOD WEB / TOP DRESSING / TREE MOVING / TREE CLEARANCE / TURF USED MACHINERY / VERTIDRAINING / Norfolk www.benburgess.co.uk WASTE / WASHWATER TREATMENT CONSTRUCTION

Photo courtesy of Rudding Park Repton Short Course ‘Signature Island Green’. AGRONOMY TURF MACHINERY WANTED ARTIFICIAL GRASS PATHWAYS The Tines Shop for Drainage experts Verde Sports Limited provide some top tips... good value, high quality Design & installation Invicta Groundcare Tines & Bedknives Primary pipe systems As the winter weather is under way, Sand slitting Equipment Ltd preparations to ensure that courses will Find a broad range of Tines Gravel banding and Bedknives online from be playable right through till Spring are We buy used golf Specialist Growers of in progress. It is important not to neglect The Grass Group Tel. 0116 2696766 Call 01722 716361 Turf for Golf Courses pathways especially if money is tight. Delivered to your door www.mjabbott.co.uk course machinery Artificial Grass is a cost effective solution www.tines-shop.co.uk Rootzone Turf for Greens Grown on USGA rootzone, despite common misconceptions. Tel: 01638 720123 Contact: Steve Dyne top-dressed throughout the year, Artificial grass could benefit your club, FLAGS Tel No: 01474 874 120 and mown at 6mm. bring in extra revenue and increase your Email: [email protected] Predominantly bent sward profits. Turf for Tees, Surrounds, To advertise contact Approaches and Fairways 1. Muddy Paths Put Players off Invicta4x1.indd 1 7/5/10 15:29:46 Various mixtures including ALL WEATHER SURFACES Golf construction experts TOP DRESSINGS ryegrass/fescue, 100% fescue, A lot of work is carried out through the James and bent/fescue grown year to ensure that the course is in tiptop Golf course construction on sandy loam topsoil. condition. However, the golfer still has to Remodelling & renovation Not only does it withstand this constant Grow in & maintenance on 01347 833 832 Bunker revetting turf get both to the course and from one hole to 40mm thick traffic but is also suitable for playing from if a Artificial surfaces another. Cheap, quick fixes for these paths or email Small or big roll are often used. In the long run these aren’t ball should land on the path. Call 01722 716361 Free loan of big roll cost effective and players are put off on many www.mjabbott.co.uk laying frame occasions. Would you want to walk across a 5. Sound Resistant [email protected] mud bath? One of the benefits of artificial grass is Tel: 01652 678 000 that it provides a surface, which is silent and www.tillersturf.co.uk 2. Cost Effective Solution comfortable to walk on, allowing the golfers IRRIGATION Artificial Grass may appear expensive to concentrate on their shot without the at the outset, but there is minimal distraction of a noisy path. maintenance required and it should last irritech limited USED MACHINERY up to 20 years once installed. The green 6. Natural Appearance Independent Irrigation Consultants staff now have more time to concentrate on The attractive green surface of the artificial grass blends well in to the course Specialising in:- the course. All in all giving long term cost ● Existing system evaluation surroundings. This enhances a wide variety benefits. ● System design & upgrade www. of areas that look and feel like natural grass ● Project management usedturfmachinery.com 3. Easy Installation without the associated wear or maintenance Artificial Grass is easy to install and can problems. Contact Roger Davey on: be carried out by the green staff themselves. 01823 690216 7.Polypropylene Surface DRAINAGE www.irritechlimited.co.uk As long as a free draining base is in place PREMIER ALL-WEATHER SURFACES FOR GOLF the artificial grass can simply be laid directly Verde are the only company that offer polypropylene pathway surfaces. These WASTE/WASHWATER over the compacted soil or stone sub-base. Traditional Pioneering the development and Both sand-filled and non-sand filled options proven products are non-slip, long lasting, production of high quality TREATMENT are available to suit different areas of the durable and hardwearing, and have been drainage and sand-based products for over 150 years course. If fixed securely this will remain in supplied to the golf market for over 25 years. place for years to come. The installation is Other companies offer polyethylene Lytag banding very similar to that of natural turf. equivalents, which are softer and slippier. of greens and fairways Huxley Practice Tee at St Andrews Links Irrigation experts 4. Versatile & Hardwearing A properly installed artificial grass pathway Contact: Verde Sports Limited Top quality practice tees, golf course tees, putting Design & installation & pitching greens, pathways, patios, cart tracks is substantial enough for the golf course Tel: 01254 831666 Maintenance & support and lawns professionally designed and installed. Online shop for spares Contact Sharon Morris on machinery to drive over - the same path Fax : 01254 831066 Tel: 01962 733222 Water storage reservoirs 07932342044 or email can be used for tractors, mowers, buggies, Email: [email protected] Tel: 01785 812706 [email protected] [email protected] trolleys, golfers and the greenkeeper. Web: www.verdesports.com www.huxleygolf.com E: [email protected] Call 01722 716361 www.northstaffsirrigation.co.uk www.mjabbott.co.uk www.mansfield-sand.co.uk

HB_14_MANSFIELD SANDS_1.4.indd 1 21/10/2013 12:11 70 GI FEBRUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd FEBRUARY 2015 GI 71

Recruitment

Assistant Greenkeepers Recruitment Colony Club Gutenhof, near Vienna, Austria All applicants must be suitably qualified to NVQ Level 2 Or Equivalent and have minimum 3 years experience, looking to further their skills The successful applicants will be expected to work as part of a very hard working team and The Guildford College Group is looking for an Instructor / Assessor in Advertise your jobs here... contribute to the maintenance of 2 championship golf courses Horticulture with particular emphasis on Sports Turf and Work Based Learning Punctuality, positive attitude, reliability and other strong work ethics including working as a to be responsible for delivery of quality training and assessment for a wide member of an international team as well as an individual are essential range of vocational and professional courses. Located at the Merrist Wood and online for one month 5 weeks paid holiday and long winter holiday using overtime as an exchange are part of the fixed College in Worplesdon, this is a full time permanent post. full time package. Health insurance, bank accounts etc are automatically arranged by us. Full golf at www.bigga.org.uk/careers membership, lunches while working and a uniform are provided. Applicants should have relevant experience within the vocational area, On site shared accommodation included in wage packet including Sports Turf and assessing in the work place; a relevant Level 3 And 1st journey to Austria paid for by flight or car qualification; an assessor award or willingness to work toward one; ability and (from £595+VAT for an 1/8 advert) willingness to travel on a regular basis to learner appointments as required; be Lindrick Golf Club Start date - March 2015 prepared to work flexible hours to meet learner/employer needs. To apply you should send your CV and a cover letter to John Jackson, via email please to: To apply for this role, please submit your application via the Guildford Contact Jill on 01347 833 812 Due to retirement Lindrick Golf Club is seeking [email protected] stating why you would be suitable for this position. College Group website applications for the post of Application deadline is the end of February. www.guildford.ac.uk/TheCollege/JobVacancies.aspx Course Manager THETFORD GOLF CLUB Knock Golf Club Limited For further details and information contact Knock Golf Club is a beautiful tree lined parkland course situated on the outskirts of Belfast ASSISTANT GREENKEEPER and is overlooked by the famous Stormont Buildings. Mrs. Paula King, Club Secretary, We currently invite applications for the post of Thetford Golf Club is a private members’ club, which celebrated its centenary in 2012. The wooded heathland course is situated in the Breckland area of Norfolk and is HARBORNE GOLF CLUB Greenkeeper (GK/01/15) Lindrick Golf Club, Deep Carrs Lane, South renowned as one of the best winter courses in East Anglia. Experienced Qualified / Near Qualified Greenkeeper The successful candidate will be expected to : The club is seeking a qualified assistant greenkeeper, preferably with NVQ Level 2 Yorkshire, S81 8BH. Tel: 01909 475282 e-mail: • Hold a NVQ Level 2 in Sports Turf Founded in 1893, Harborne Golf Club is an 18 hole Harry Colt designed private members club. • Have PA 1, 2, 6a Spray Certificates qualifications, for a permanent, full-time position. The successful applicant should be We are currently seekin to recruit an experienced, qualified or near qualified greenkeeper to join keen to further his/her career and will be required to fit into a small, hard-working and [email protected] • Hold a Full UK Driving Licence our existing highly motivated team. The ideal candidate will be a team player with a fine attention • Have A flexible and positive attitude to work dedicated team who take pride in the presentation of their golf course. to detail and be able to work to the highest standards and possess the following-: • Be able to work the Clubs flexible weekend Rota system Work will involve a variety of duties, so flexibility and a willingness to learn new skills Closing Date 28th February 2015 • Qualified to NVQ level 2 in Amenity Sportsturf • Ensure the course is presented to the highest possible standard will be essential. Early starts and weekend working are required. • Minimum 3 years experience • Be a team player Certification to use chainsaws and spraying equipment will be an advantage, but are • Knowledge of irrigation and machinery• Currently hold spraying certificates PA1 & PA6 • NPTC Chainsaw certificate – preferred but not essential not essential as further training will be available. The successful candidate will be passionate about their chosen career, dedicated and possess a • Current first aid certificate – preferred but not essential Wages will be in line with industry recommendations. flexible approach to work as early starts and weekend work is required. Good communication skills, a Closing date for completed applications is 5pm on Friday 20th February. Applications, including a CV and a covering letter explaining why you feel you would keen eye for detail and a good team player are also essential. We are an equal opportunities employer be suitable for the position, should be sent to: To apply for this position please email or post a covering letter and current C.V along with 2 For application form (no CV’s) apply in writing to: Mrs Anne Armstrong, General Paul Gould, Course Manager, Thetford Golf Club, Brandon Road, Thetford, references to-: Darren Murphy, Harborne Golf Club, 40 Tennal Road, Harborne, Birmingham, B32 2JE Manager, The Knock Golf Club Limited, Summerfield, DUNDONALD, BT16 2QX Norfolk IP24 3NE or email [email protected] Email - [email protected] / Closing: 15th February 2015 e-mail: [email protected] Project6:Layout 1 10/6/08 09:28 Page 1

Seasonal Assistant Greenkeepers Supagrass Lawn Treatment CLANDON REGIS GOLF CLUB We are currently looking for experienced Assistant Greenkeepers for the upcoming summer REQUIRE:- season here in Norway. The contract lengths will be between 6-7 months from April onwards. Business Franchise for Sale Wentworth Club one of the world’s finest golf and country clubs – is an oasis less than an hour Miklagard Golf is widely regarded as Norway’s top golf course. The location of the 18 hole Supagrass Thames Valley is an established Supagrass Lawn from central London, with the famous castellated course is 30 mintute north of Oslo City Centre and conveniently only a 10 minute drive from Oslo Treatment franchise that provides a range of all year round Clubhouse and three championship courses. Assistant Greenkeeper International airport (Gardermoen). Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jnr, the course is a 6,765 meters services to 600 residential customers in Berkshire and South Home to the BMW PGA Championship. long and is described as a links parkland course. Buckinghamshire, to improve the quality of their lawns. ® The seasonal staff will be asked to work within a team, of which we place great responsibility on, A hardworking and reliable person required qualified to maintain the course to the highest possible standard at all times. We are looking for people who These services include a minimum of 4 visits a year to each to N.V.Q.Level 2 and holding PA1 PA2 and PA6 spraying understand what quality and responsibility mean. customer to apply fertiliser granules, herbicide and Moss Control sprays. In addition, lawn ASSISTANT GREENKEEPERS The correct candidates should have the following: scarifications, aerations, repair seeding, fungicide/insecticide treatments and other lawn certificates is desirable. works, for example top dressings, are provided as required. Department: Golf Courses • Experience working on a golf course (1 year minimum) Reports to: Head Greenkeeper • A qualification in Greenkeeping (NVQ 2/ SVQ 2 or currently in the process) The reason for sale is retirement, and with an existing customer base immediately available, Salary & Benefits: £19,000 per annum plus an excellent benefits package Applications in writing with full C.V. to:- • Experience using cutting machinery the business has ongoing, and repeat, turnover and cash flow from Day 1, alongside Position Type: Permanent, Full-time Paul Napier –General Manager: 01483 224888. • Experience with course set up / Tournament preparation support from the franchisor. In addition, the geography covered by the franchise is certainly one of the primary residential areas in the south of England, thus providing excellent Key responsibilities and requirements: Clandon Regis Golf Club, Epsom Road, Basic on site accommodation is supplied by the golf club at a monthly fee. opportunities for future growth. To apply for a position send an email with a cover letter, C.V. and references to james@ We are currently recruiting for experienced Assistant Greenkeepers to work on one of our three West Clandon, Surrey GU4 7TT championship standard 18-hole golf courses. Working within a team you will ensure that the course miklagardgolf.no For further details please contact : Nigel Timson on 01628 826582 is properly laid and prepared for members and visitors to the club. In addition, you will maintain the or by email on [email protected]. Or email:- [email protected] Closing date for applications: 25th February highest possible standards of presentation in readiness for tournaments. Experienced and ideally qualified to NVQ 1 OR 2 (although not essential), you will have a passion to learn and to exceed expectations. The positions are based on a 40-hour week (plus alternate weekends) however flexibility will be essential, particularly over the summer months and Royal Cinque Ports Golf Club leading up to and during tournaments. THETFORD GOLF CLUB Royal Cinque Ports Golf Club currently has an opening for a Senior Greenkeeper. Woking Golf Club ASSISTANT GREENKEEPER The role requires a highly motivated individual with comprehensive experience at a high SEASONAL ASSISTANT GREENKEEPERS level, ideally including tournament experience. Advert for a qualified Greenkeeper Department: Golf Courses ThetfordMachynys PeninsulaGolf Club Golf is a & private Country members’ Club is a Nicklausclub, which designed celebrated 7121 yard its moderncentenary links in Candidates will have: 2012.Championship The wooded course heathland in based course in South is Wales.situated It hasin the already Breckland hosted anarea unprecedented of Norfolk and8 is Reports to: Head Greenkeeper • Minimum of 5 years greenkeeping experience Woking Golf Club is a private members Club located within the heart of Surrey. Championships,renowned including as one 2of R the & A best and winter4 Ladies courses European in Tour East Championships. Anglia. • Education level of NVQ/SVQ 3 Salary & Benefits: £19,000 per annum (pro-rata) Woking is the oldest heathland course in Surrey and was the forerunner in terms Position Type: Fixed-term Contract, April – October 2015 The club is seeking a qualified assistant greenkeeper, preferably with NVQ Level 2 • Knowledge of mechanics and machine setup QUALIFIED GREENKEEPER of architecture to many other well renowned heathland courses within the Surrey/ qualifications, for a permanent, full-time position. The successful applicant should be • PA1, PA2 and PA6 spraying certificates We are seeking to recruit a Qualified Greenkeeper with a minimum of NVQ level 2/3 in Sports Berkshire belt. The course was designed and laid out by Tom Dunn in 1893 and Key responsibilities and requirements: keen to further his/her career and will be required to fit into a small, hard-working and • Enthusiasm for the job and a desire to progress their career Turf and Maintenance to join our enthusiastic team. Any additional qualifications such as spraying regularly feature in the Top 100 Courses of Great Britain. We are currently recruiting for experienced Assistant Greenkeepers to support us throughout dedicated team who take pridewould in be the beneficial. presentation of their golf course. • Knowledge of health & safety We are seeking to recruit a suitably qualified Greenkeeper with a minimum of NVQ the busy summer period on our three championship standard 18-hole golf courses. Working within WorkIdeally will the involve candidate a variety will have of a duties, minimum so flexibilityof three years and experience a willingness as an Assistant to learn Greenkeeper new skills • A valid driving licence Level 2 in Amenity Sports Turf to join our team. Any additional qualifications such as a team you will ensure that the course is properly laid and prepared for members and visitors to the and be familiarwill with be aessential. wide range Early of equipment starts and associated weekend with working the post. are The required. candidate must also be Preferred but not essential qualities include: club. In addition, you will maintain the highest possible standards of presentation in readiness for • A working knowledge of modern irrigation systems chainsaw and/or spraying would be beneficial but not essential. Certification tohighly use chainsawscompetent withand thespraying use of 22 equipment and 26 inch handwill bemowers. an advantage, but are tournaments. The successful candidate will be passionate and dedicated about their career and have a keen eye • Practical experience of construction projects The successful candidate will be passionate about their chosen career, dedicated not essential as further training will be available. Experienced and ideally qualified to NVQ 1 OR 2 (although not essential), you will have for detail. Previous tournament experience would also be desirable but not essential. • Links experience and possess a flexible approach to work as weekend work is required. You will possess a passion to learn and to exceed expectations. The positions are based on a 40-hour week and Wages will be in line with industry recommendations. A flexible approach is a must due to seasonal and overtime requirements. • Good golfing ability good communication skills, be a good team player and have a keen eye for detail. flexibility will be essential. Applications, including a CV and a covering letter explaining why you feel you would Applicants should apply in writing or e-mail with current salary package to ; A competitive salary and benefits package is on offer based around 45 hours per week, Applicants should apply in writing with a covering letter and their C.V to: be suitableMarcus for the Weaver position, (Course should Manager) be sent to: including every 2nd weekend. Mrs Jo Smith, Assistant Secretary, Woking Golf Club, Pond Road, Hook Heath, For more information regarding careers at Wentworth Club please visit our website at Paul Gould,Machynys Course Manager, Peninsula Golf Thetford & Country Golf Club, Club, Llanelli, Brandon SA15 2DG Road, Thetford, www.wentworthclub.com/clubs/careers/ Candidates should send a current CV along with covering letter to: Woking, Surrey, GU22 0JZ Norfolk IP24 [email protected] or email [email protected] Chris Barnard, Links Superintendent, [email protected]

72 GI FEBRUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd FEBRUARY 2015 GI 73 @BIGGALtd A new page featuring the best Tweets and pics from the industry – don’t forget to tag @BIGGALtd to give yourself a chance of being featured! 0%* Finance

@golfindustria 0+2 Annual Our favourite tweets Payments this month... 1st Payment March 2015 @BIGGALtd

@sportsmetals‬‬ Awesome ‪#BTME15‬ thanks ‪@ BIGGALtd‬ and all that visited, hardly had a chance to take a pic

@GCMAUK‬‬ Thanks to everyone ‪@BIGGALtd‬ for a great week at ‪#BTME2015‬!

‪@Horticap‬‬ Another brilliant time down at ‪@ BIGGALtd‬ exhibition. Everyone was really lovely to our students

‪@KarolProGrasS‬‬ The joint trip to ‪#Harrogate‬ ‪@ BIGGALtd‬ with customers.Great trip.Great place and people. See You next time ‪#ProGrasS‬

‪@CentenaryHGK‬‬ Great job by the ‪@BIGGALtd‬ team @KarolProGrasS putting together another amazing BTME great education networking Take Control of Premium Cut Quality and socialising as always ‪#proudofyouall‬ Our NEW generation of Fairway Mowers redefi ne cut quality and combine it with uncompromising productivity. Take advantage @TheFlaxby_GCC‬‬ of our latest innovations like eHydro operation, TechControl Great day at ‪#btme15‬ thanks to ‪@ management and SpeedLink cutting unit adjustment. Achieve the BIGGALtd‬ for their help. The lads together for one of the last times cut quality your course desires with the NEW A-Series. as team Flaxby

‪@golfindustria‬‬ @Horticap So, ‪#BTME2015‬ is over, great @GCMAUK job done by ‪@BIGGALtd‬ team, see you at Harrogate next year NEW ‪#BTME2016‬!!!

@CradocGreens‬‬ A great couple of days ‪@BIGGALtd‬ BTME. Some great seminars and OFFICIAL some interesting products made GOLF COURSE EQUIPMENT for another fantastic show. SUPPLIER

* The fi nance offer is available for Golf & Bowls clubs in the UK only. The offer includes all golf & turf equipment, commercial mowing, utility vehicles and JD attachments. Offer is available until 28th February 2015. Finance is limited to 60% of retail value. Rates/payments may vary @BIGGALtd to refl ect changes in tax and cost of funds. VAT where applicable. An administration fee will @TheFlaxby_GCC @sportsmetals be charged. We may withdraw this offer at any time. Finance is subject to status. Terms and

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

74 GI FEBRUARY 2015 @BIGGALtd

TS60070_1_ENGGB_Golf14_LET14_PGA_210x297.indd 1 22.09.14 11:44 TC0753 Greenkeeper Int CS ad_Layout 1 05/12/2014 09:35 Page 1

The Toro® greens package

for Perfect Greens Only Toro has the full package of turf equipment to make your greens look and play like the best.

THE GREENSMASTER eFLEX 2100 AND GREENSPRO 1240

When it comes to producing greens that everyone wants to play, Toro is just perfect. And now, with the fantastic new GreensPro 1240 dedicated greens roller, Toro is the only TORO manufacturer with the full greens’ maintenance equipment package. It means that, for every IRRIGATION job – from cutting, rolling and aerating to top dressing and spraying – there’s a quality Toro machine to help you produce the perfect green.

Full details at www.toro.com For a free onsite demonstration, call Lely on 01480 226800

GREENSMASTER GREENSMASTER PROCORE PROPASS MULTIPRO FLEX 21 TRIFLEX 648 200 5800

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

Toro Commercial Products are distributed by Lely (UK) Limited, St. Neots, Cambridgeshire PE19 1QH. Tel: 01480 226800 | Email: [email protected] | www.lelyturfcare.co.uk | www.toro.com