Groundskeeping Journal - Issue 23 2024

VOL. 23 | MAY/JUNE 2024

HARRADINE

Golf Course Renovation: Become a Master(planner)

INFINICUT

It’s yellow for The Sky Blues, as INFINICUT® fleet impresses at Coventry City

ASPEN

People, planet and pocket-friendly power?

TURFKEEPER

Revolutionising Turf Management

VANMAC LTD

Trilo M3 cleans up at Ombersley Golf Club!

PLAN TO UPGRADE?

In this issue

Welcome to Groundskeeping Journal, the UK’s leading bi-monthly publication providing latest product innovations, industry news and opinions from key professionals within the industry. With focuses on Aeration, Irrigation & Drainage; Greenskeeping; Latest News; Machinery; Pitch & Line Marking; Specialist Mowers; Sports Ground Equipment; Sports Pitches; Top Dressing; Sprayers & Spraying and Turf Management.

10 Turfkeeper

Revolutionising Turf Management with TurfKeeper

12 Royal Troon

Royal Troon greenkeepers get compound upgrade ahead of Open Championship

13 Aspen Fuel

People, planet and pocket-friendly power? Aspen is the answer says GT Trees

14 Makita

The compact choice for quick, clean cutting

28 Harradine Golf

Golf Course Renovation: Become a Master(planner)

32 Origin Amenity Solutions

Overcoming Dollar Spot: Alderney Golf Club’s Triumph with Origin Amenity Solutions

34 ZLine

New Rangeline product improves range economics and visuals

40 GKB Machines

It’s ‘Sandfiller Season’ says GKB Machines

42 Redexim

Verti-Quake and Verti-Drain combo help Wrekin GC weather the challenge of increased rainfall

Success with Suståne at Watford Football Club

To help create some small pockets of wildflower grassland for our bees and butterflies, Collier Turf Care are giving away 10,000 sq.m worth of Bees & Butterflies wildflower grass seed.

To help create some small pockets of wildflower grassland for our bees and butterflies, Collier Turf Care are giving away 10,000 sq.m worth of Bees & Butterflies wildflower grass seed.

Scan the QR code to see a live map of where we have sent Wildflower seed so far and to apply for a FREE bag (Whilst stocks last)

Scan the QR code to see a live map of where we have sent Wildflower seed so far and to apply for a FREE bag (Whilst stocks last)

Key Supplier Focus:

We are the exclusive distributor of the Olmix Marathon ranges in the UK

Recommended for use on many areas such as fairways, tees, greens, sports pitches and more

Contact Us

Enhancing Quality Sports Services

the right product for your synthetic surface GKJ has it all.

ello and welcome to Groundskeeping Journal. Our publication has been created to showcase the very latest industry news and product information from the Groundskeeping sector.

In each edition we carry in depth articles from some of the industry leaders, the articles cover many aspects of Groundskeeping with some offering tips and advice on Sports Pitches, Turf Management, Greens Keeping and much, much more. Whether you are looking for tips and advice on creating the perfect green or looking to source

Our vision is to connect our readers with professionals and suppliers working within their sector and we hope that we have created a platform that will become a must have tool for anyone working within the industry.

Many thanks for taking the time to read our publication, we hope you enjoy the read and if you would like to keep up to date with all things GKJ then make sure you check out our subscribe page.

Editor-In-Chief

Antony Holter

editor@mhmagazine.co.uk 01304 806039

Editor

Emma Page

emma@groundskeepingjournal.co.uk 01304 806039

Publishing Director

Martin Holmes

martin@mhmagazine.co.uk 01304 806039

Sales Director

Lee Martin

lee@groundskeepingjournal.co.uk 01227 936974

Business Manager

Josh Holmes josh@mhmagazine.co.uk 01304 806039

Studio Designer

Richard Bland richard@mhmagazine.co.uk

Digital Manager

Jamie Bullock

jamie@mhmagazine.co.uk 01227 936971

Accounts Department

Alison Holmes

accounts@mhmediaglobal.com 01227 936971

With Marathon ALGAE fertiliser, turf prepares its “summer body”!

n preparation for the summer period, it is necessary to adapt the fertilisation of sports pitches and golf courses. Advice on the correct analysis is available from Collier Turf Care to help find the right ‘fitness programme’ for your sports turf.

Late spring and summer regularly bring variable periods of heat, drought, or precipitation. So many changes in conditions that affect turf, at a time when pitch use is increasing, and there are less opportunities for fertilisation.

To ensure that playing surfaces are as well prepared as possible for this period, we interviewed Emmanuel Bausson, Product Manager Turf and Amenities for Olmix Plant care.

First of all, can you describe the main problems for turf during the summer period?

E.B. They are mainly of two kinds. On the one hand, irregular growth due to variations in temperature and humidity, and on the other, an increased risk of disease. After frequent mowing in spring, there is always some uncollected residue, which gradually builds up to form a thatch. This layer of undecomposed organic matter maintains a damp, asphyxiating environment, conducive to the development of disease. The absorption of nutrients by turf can also be more complicated in summer. Heat and drought are naturally more frequent during this period, which affects sap flow in the plant and therefore the absorption and circulation of nutrients.

In mid to late summer, it is recommended to use formulas that are richer in nitrogen, such as 16-48, to support the natural growth of turf at this time.

In the run-up to the summer, should we adjust the fertilisation of turf?

E.B. Yes, you should use fertiliser formulas that are enriched with potassium. Potassium helps to maintain osmotic pressure in plant cells, encouraging the flow of sap and the transport of nutrients for good turf nutrition. As for nitrogen, it is preferable to choose

less reactive forms, such as urea or ammonium, to smooth out growth peaks. In the Marathon ALGAE range of fertilisers, we recommend using formulas with potassium sulphate such as 9-3-9, 10-0-15 or 7-6-14.

Can you remind us of the main characteristics of Marathon ALGAE fertilisers?

E.B. This is a range of fertilisers with an organo-mineral profile. In other words, it combines mineral forms of fertiliser to concentrate the formulas into a sufficient quantity of nutrients to meet the needs of turf, and an organic fraction to stimulate soil microbial activity. The organic component is carefully made up of dehydrated (not composted) matter, which makes it highly reactive on soil microflora, and dry seaweed

extract SEADRY®, rich in specific polysaccharides, which acts as a prebiotic for soil bacteria. Secondly, all Marathon ALGAE formulas benefit from a patented technology for sequential diffusion of nutrients, called XSER®. This technology allows nutrients to be released up to 12 weeks after application. We therefore provide a balanced nutrition, in regular doses, which encourages more uniform growth of turf.

You insist on stimulating soil life. Is this important when it comes to fertilising sports turf?

E.B. Yes, it’s essential. The stimulation of the soil’s natural microbial activity by Marathon ALGAE fertilisers helps prevent thatch build-up by regularly decomposing residual organic matter. This considerably improves the circulation of air and water in the first layers of soil, thereby maintaining an environment conducive to healthy turf.

So it’s best to use potassiumenriched Marathon ALGAE formulas for the summer. What do you advise for autumn?

E.B. In mid to late summer, it is

recommended to use formulas that are richer in nitrogen, such as 16-48, to support the natural growth of turf at this time. Then, during the autumn/winter, it is advisable to use again formulas that are richer in potassium, such as SPORT 7-0-21 or GOLF 5-0-27, to support the accumulation of nutrients by the grass for winter.

In addition to the Marathon ALGAE SPORT formulas, Olmix and Collier Turf Care, the exclusive distributor for the UK market, are now offering the Marathon ALGAE GOLF formulas. Can you tell us about them?

E.B. Two types of granulation are now available: SPORT formulas with a particle size of 2 to 4 mm and GOLF formulas with a particle size of 0.7 to 2

mm. With a finer, semolina-type particle size, GOLF formulas break down more quickly, making them particularly suitable for fertilising golf course greens. They are also suitable for all situations where the time between fertilisation and mowing or use of the pitch is reduced. By dissolving quickly, the granules are not collected with the grass cuttings and the turf retains an impeccable appearance for users

With the numerous references in the Marathon ALGAE range, it is therefore possible to manage the fertilisation of sports turf in an appropriate way according to the constraints imposed by each season, and thus maintain a permanently high level of quality to the greatest satisfaction of users.

For more information or advice on the Marathon ALGAE range, contact our office on 01328 700600, email sales@collier-turf-care.co.uk or your local area representative.

Encourage growth and a smooth, free draining playing surface with East Riding Turfcare’s range of Top Quality Top Dressings

The purpose of top dressing is to create a level surface, improve drainage, improve drought resistance, encourage the breakdown of thatch and encourage a healthy dense sward. Whether top dressing lawns or quality sports surfaces the following principles apply – Top Dressing should be applied when grass is actively growing.

East Riding Turfcare supply quality sterilised 70/30 Top Dressing from trusted manufacturers from UK quarries. Ideal for use on fine turf areas and high quality lawns, containing 70% specially selected sports sand and 30% graded top soil. Top dressing can be used in a variety of areas but is particularly suited to sports pitches throughout the year. It can be applied following seeding or overseeding to protect the development of plants, encourage the germination of grass seeds and aiding healthy seed establishment. Very popular with golf clubs and bowls clubs due to the high sand content that promotes free draining and a smooth surface.

Whether top dressing lawns or quality sports surfaces the following principles apply –Top Dressing should be applied when grass is actively growing.

Top dressing can also be applied after renovation processes such as aeration, so that it will filter into the holes made and will improve the rate at which grass and turf recovers. It can also be used to help against winter desiccation.

Applications include Bowling Greens, Golf Greens and Cricket Wickets. East Riding offer tailored nutrition plans which we would recommend using your top dressing in conjunction with.

Obtaining the correct top dressing is important. For further information regarding the various types of top dressings and soils we offer, call our technical sales team on 01904 608157 or email info@eastridingturfcare.co.uk

Say goodbye to the guesswork with a Free Soil Analysis from East Riding Turfcare

East Riding Turfcare can offer a free technical soil analysis to help support your sports turf management programmes, helping to prevent potential problems. Independently analysed, with results accurately assessed through an entire suite of analytical testing, providing an easy-to-understand report and tailored nutrition programme.

For further information or to book a site visit please contact us on 01904 608157 or email info@eastridingturfcare.co.uk

DOUBLE EDGE – Biostimulant

With more and more chemicals being withdrawn from the market, groundskeepers are turning to biostimulants to feed, strengthen, and protect against disease. The need to follow an IPM program is now more important than ever and being more environmentally conscious this isn’t such a bad thing either. Using DOUBLE EDGE in a regular spray program will cut the need for conventional chemistry by strengthening the plant and allowing it to better withstand disease pressures.

David Gray, Golf Courses Manager, Fife Golf Trust said this about DOUBLE EDGE, “Having never used DOUBLE EDGE until this season, I was interested to see the results over our courses and monitor the potential benefits. I have been really impressed and the teams report plant health has been improved, with a good consistent colour. Being such a low

dose rate makes it affordable, but also makes it convenient to distribute to the 7 different sites that we manage, soil structure differing from sandy

DOUBLE EDGE into our regular foliar applications. We apply DOUBLE EDGE predominantly to our Greens over all 7 courses but in the future, we may extend this out to Tees and Surrounds.“

www.upl-ltd.com/uk

Revolutionising Turf Management with TurfKeeper

Kevin Scare, OAS Product Manager for Turfkeeper

n the elite world of turf management, greenkeepers face mounting pressure to justify every decision they make, from equipment purchases to project proposals. With costs soaring and resources dwindling, the need for data-driven insights has never been more critical.

ITurfKeeper is a web-based digital platform designed to empower turf managers and greenkeepers with the tools they need to maximise resources, streamline decision-making, and manage turf maintenance.

Unlocking Insights with TurfKeeper:

At the heart of TurfKeeper lies a robust suite of features tailored specifically for the turf industry. From staff management to inventory control, task planning to budgeting,

TurfKeeper provides greenkeepers with a central hub to oversee every aspect of their operations. Gone are the days of drowning in paperwork and manual data entry – with TurfKeeper, managers can harness the power of automation to generate visually attractive reports, analyse trends, and make informed decisions with ease.

Harnessing the Power of Data:

What sets TurfKeeper apart is its ability to transform raw data into actionable insights, in a a visually compelling way. Imagine being able to track machinery downtime, analyse labour efficiency, and monitor chemical applications – all at the click of a button.

With TurfKeeper, greenkeepers can do just that. By consolidating data from across the operation into customised reports and dashboards, TurfKeeper equips managers with the information they need to optimise performance and maximise productivity whilst justifying decisions.

Saving Time and Resources:

One of the most significant benefits of TurfKeeper is its ability to save time and resources. By automating repetitive tasks and eliminating manual paperwork, TurfKeeper enables greenkeepers to focus their efforts on strategic decision-making and turf maintenance. Whether it’s assessing the cost-effectiveness of equipment purchases or evaluating the impact of bunker projects, TurfKeeper empowers managers to make informed decisions quickly and confidently.

Fostering Collaboration and Communication:

In addition to streamlining operations, TurfKeeper also helps with collaboration and communication among team members. With real-time updates and notifications, greenkeepers can keep everyone in the loop and ensure that tasks are completed on time and within budget.

Whether managing a small golf course or a sprawling sports complex, TurfKeeper adapts to the unique needs of each operation, providing a scalable solution for all turf managers and greenkeepers.

TurfKeeper has been adopted across the country and is revolutionising the way Turf

From staff management to inventory control, task planning to budgeting, TurfKeeper provides greenkeepers with a central hub to oversee every aspect of their operations.

Managers fulfill their role through the provision of consolidated, detailed, and transparent information that can be easily presented and used for decision-making.

Royal Troon greenkeepers get compound upgrade ahead of Open Championship

Royal Troon Golf Club has upgraded its greenkeepers compound, incorporating stateof-the-art locker rooms, ahead of this summer’s 152nd Open.

The 145-year-old club, based in South Ayrshire, Scotland, has made a large investment in a new welfare block, which includes offices, a staff room, a kitchen, wet and dry changing facilities, showers and toilets.

The changing rooms feature 28 modern lockers and benches to cater for the dedicated team responsible for maintaining the club’s pristine courses.

The investment aims to support the 20 greenkeeping staff preparing to host the Championship in July.

Locit, the manufacturer of the Pure Lockers brand, partnered with distributor Nationwide Lockers to deliver the slate grey steel lockers to the specifications of contractor Fleming Build.

Stephen Anthony, Club Secretary at Royal Troon Golf Club, said: “The club is delighted with the new facilities, including the lockers, for our 20 greenkeepers.

“The move to personal lockers provides a secure space for our team’s belongings.

“The club is committed to the wellbeing of every employee and this upgrade speaks volumes about

the value the club places on our dedicated team of greenkeepers and their integral role in maintaining our course’s international standards.”

John Burns, Project lead and Site Manager for Fleming Build, based in Glasgow, said: “The recent enhancement to the greenkeepers’ compound underscores Royal Troon’s commitment to providing top-notch facilities for its dedicated employees.

“The decision to work with Nationwide as a locker supplier was influenced by price, a quick lead time, colour customisation and fast installation. Pure Lockers were the best buy and ensured a seamless delivery process for Royal Troon. Collaborating with Locit and Nationwide Lockers reinforced our commitment to quality project delivery.”

Pure Lockers are the world’s first carbon-neutral steel lockers. Each product is PAS 2060 certified, the internationally recognised

specification for carbon neutrality published by the British Standards Institution (BSI).

Locit manufactures from a stateof-the-art digital manufacturing facility in Deeside using 3D CAD/CAM software solutions that enable the design of products with minimum waste materials. The factory also uses an innovative curing process at a lower temperature than the industry standard to guarantee the highest quality and 40% energy savings.

Kevin Elliott, Business Development Manager, at Locit said: “At Locit, we take pride in our commitment to delivering excellence to our clients. We understand that each client has unique requirements, and our approach is collaborative. We work closely with our clients to tailor Pure Lockers to their needs, ensuring that every detail aligns with their vision.”

For more information visit: www.royaltroon.co.uk

People, planet and pocketfriendly power? Aspen is the answer says GT Trees

Cleaner, greener and lower maintenance costs. Those were the main reasons Greg Tucker of GT Trees made the switch to Aspen Fuel and, five years on, he’s still shouting about these benefits and many others he’s found using the Alkylate fuel in his independent gardening and landscaping business. In an era when many professionals may feel the pressure to invest in electric tools, Greg cites how he and his customers value that Aspen improves conditions for people and the planet while reducing the amount of functional equipment resigned to the shed or scrapyard.

Greg has worked within the arb sector for 18 years, recently changing direction towards more artistic projects – hedge work, topiary, shrubs and small tree reduction. For this, he relies on the performance of his fleet of hand tools – mostly powered by Aspen 2-stroke Alkylate petrol. “My journey into using Aspen is pretty common… I’d heard of it, gave it a try and I’ve been using it ever since” he explains. “My maintenance costs have reduced, and from the operator perspective, the headaches, congestion and other health implications typically associated with being in close proximity to petrol-powered equipment has been all-but eliminated.”

“Like most, I have explored electric tools but found they just didn’t cut it – literally! Battery life was not practical and, ultimately, the kit we already have does exactly the job

we need it to. Through using Aspen, we can do our bit to be kinder to ourselves and the environment, and not be throwing away serviceable equipment.”

Aspen 2 is a pre-mixed 2-stroke Alkylate petrol, free from ethanol, benzene and many of the other hazardous hydrocarbons typically found in unleaded from the pump. This means that Aspen burns cleaner, reducing harmful emissions and providing reliable engine performance.

“We use roughly 25 litres a month, which we order through our local distributor, and find that the increase in the price is offset by the reduction in expensive repair bills we’ve had.” Greg continues, “You know what you’re going to get – you’re not going to get halfway through a job and run out of juice! Customers also recognise the red Aspen cans and are completely sold as soon as I reel off all of the benefits it has. I can’t recommend it enough!” www.aspenfuel.co.uk

The compact choice for quick, clean cutting

Makita has added two new pruning products to its ever growing outdoor product range.

Powered by Makita’s 18V LXT battery system, the new DUP180 Brushless Pruning Shear and the DUC150 150mm Pruning Saw offer a comfortable and powerful solution to make quick and light work of repetitive or heavy pruning jobs.

With an adjustable shear blade opening angle, the new DUP180 18V LXT Brushless Pruning Shear accommodates four different cutting capacities up to ø30mm and provides up to 8,800 cuts on a single charge (when used with a 6.0Ah battery).

Thanks to a brushless motor and belt holster to carry the battery, this tool is extremely lightweight and comfortable to use at just 0.68kg (without battery). To further minimise user fatigue, Makita has engineered the tool so that the control of the shear blade is interlocked with the trigger, meaning

the blades will only open and close depending on the degree the trigger is depressed or released.

Additionally, an external oil port is designed for easy blade lubrication without disassembly, enhancing the tool’s durability.

charger, or as a standalone tool body only.

Joining the outdoor line up is the DUC150 18V 150mm Pruning Saw. Operating with a chain speed of 8m/s, this compact machine offers excellent cutting performance despite its lightweight design, making it ideal for general garden applications or orchard maintenance.

Additional comfort and efficiencyenhancing features include tool-less chain tensioning and automatic chain oiling, while a brushless motor ensures low maintenance requirements and a longer working motor life.

The DUC150 is available as a kit with a BL1850B Battery and DC18RC

Kevin Brannigan, Marketing Manager at Makita UK commented: “Whether it’s for making light work of clipping back shrubs and hedgerows, or trimming branches and small trees, the DUP180 and DUC150 are convenient tools that are designed with simplicity and ergonomics in mind. At Makita, we continue to apply our heritage and expertise in battery technology and tool engineering to develop essential kit items such as these, so that the professional sector has access to a vast range of battery powered tools that meet every daily demand without the constraints of cords or petrol.”

To find out more about Makita and its range of products visit: www.makitauk.com.

Propel equips leading Landscaping business to drive growth

Propel recently financed a cherry picker for a leading Landscaping business; supporting the customer to achieve their development ambitions. Following this purchase, Propel helped the customer secure twelve more deals towards a range of business critical assets.

Feedback from the customer:

“We were initially referred to Propel as we required asset finance towards a cherry picker. We were impressed by the whole process, while the speed rate of securing the finance was very quick and efficient. The Propel team were outstanding; and the whole experience of dealing with them was excellent. We had so much confidence in Propel. It was a no brainer for us to return to them for further finance. They’ve since managed to help us purchase several other key assets such as woodchippers, cars, trucks and vans.”

To discuss how you could benefit from an asset finance solution designed around your business, call Propel’s specialist team on 01633 982922 or email contact@propelfinance.co.uk.

Cutting Edge Machinery and Vehicle Finance for

Groundskeeping &

Landscaping Businesses

• Access the latest machinery and vehicles immediately

• No large upfront payment, preserving capital

• Boost your cash flow by spreading the costs over time

• Flexible finance solutions tailored to your seasonal cash flow requirements

• Fixed payments protect your business against inflation

• Fast decisions, so no delays to important new contracts

Propel is the fastest-growing asset finance company in the UK; and has a track record of over 25 years in supporting Groundskeeping businesses in achieving their growth ambitions.

Talk to Propel’s asset finance experts today for fast and flexible equipment and vehicle finance solutions designed to power your growth.

Finance is subject to status. Terms and Conditions Apply. Propel acts as a lender or a credit broker for business customers only.

Designs for a cleaner, safer & more sustainable environment

At Glasdon, we have over 60 years’ experience in designing, manufacturing and supplying essential products which can improve spaces, enhance site safety and help to support waste management systems and recycling.

Glasdon UK serves over 50,000 customers throughout the whole of the UK. As a company, we are committed to constantly evolving, to meet the specialised demands of our customers.

Glasdon are passionate about the environment and committed to improving our environmental impact. Dedicated to integrating sustainable and ethical practice into our day-to-day activities, Glasdon aim to be an economically, environmentally, and socially responsible member of the local and global community. New product development has been a defining element throughout our history. We are continually enhancing our product range and pave the way in the market by introducing unique products. Working together with our

contact@propelfinance.co.uk 01633 982 922 www.propelfinance.co.uk

innovative design team, we want to provide real world solutions, tailored to meeting our customers’ needs.

We design our products to have a long service life and wherever possible they are made using recycled and recyclable materials. Researching and implementing new sustainable technologies and manufacturing processes allows us to achieve this. The vast majority of our products are proudly manufactured and assembled in the United Kingdom which helps ensure our carbon footprint is kept to a minimum.

To help keep areas tidy and litter free, Glasdon have a large selection of indoor and outdoor waste and recycling containers and dog waste bins, available in a selection of styles, sizes and colours to suit all requirements.

Create inviting and sustainable outdoor spaces where you need to with seats, benches and picnic tables manufactured from recycled materials. Glasdon Enviropol® material is predominantly produced from post-consumer polyethylene and polypropylene. This means the Enviropol slats on one of our seating products could contain as many as 102,420 recycled bottle caps!

Website: www.glasdon.com Email: enquiries@glasdon-uk.co.uk

My Path to Wimbledon: Conrad Cavill, Groundstaff

Written by Aman Ahmed

nspiring new recruits from all walks of life to join the sector is the critical, but concerning focus for #GroundsWeek 2024.

IThe main characters of sport’s folklore are almost always its coaches and athletes. The set designers for those stories, however, are in short supply. Research carried out by the Grounds Management Association highlights that 40 per cent of the current workforce is over 50 years old and without an influx of new recruits, this could result in a significant employment gap within five years.

Through speaking to the All England

Club’s Conrad Cavill, we hope to illuminate the art of Groundsmanship and demystify the industry sport is indebted to.

Pathetic fallacy in most narratives would involve a scene with the sun smiling down bright and beaming rays. This biography, however, is not like the rest. Unique in that a summer’s day shine, spurred an imminent escape:

“When I was in college, I did a week’s work experience at Southampton’s training ground.

“Years went by jumping around jobs. I was working in a call centre. I looked out on a day like this. It was sunny and I thought, I just don’t want to do this. I want to be outside.

“I remembered my time at Southampton. That’s when I looked into Grounds again. I found a Sports Turf Degree and went straight into education again.”

Incredible that a throwaway week’s work experience at the age of 17 years old would be the catalyst to an extraordinary Grounds career that would later cross Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.

Initially dropping out of a Football Business degree, Conrad’s first attempt at university didn’t stick. His second however, fared much better, returning to education a few years later through the University Centre Myerscough to undertake a Sportsturf degree. This time accompanied with lived experience shaping an unshakeable ambition:

“I wanted a degree. I wanted something.

Without any experience, apart from that week at Southampton, I just went straight in and started a degree.”

Recognised as one of the leading academies in the country by holding ‘Category One’ status in the Premier League’s ‘Elite Player Performance Plan’, Southampton Football Club are widely renowned for the players they’ve platformed. The roll call of graduates who list the Staplewood campus as their alma matter includes three time Southampton Player of the Season, Matt Le Tissier; Premier League alltime top scorer, Alan Shearer; England’s youngest ever player at 17 years and 75 days old, Theo Walcott; five time UEFA Champions League Winner, Gareth Bale; and UEFA Champions League and Premier League winner, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.

Something, clearly, is in the waters. It’s a culture that permeates. Conrad explains that “people that were there at that time” during his week work experience “have gone on to be at the top of the game”, listing fort leaders of the industry in Karl Standley – Wembley Stadium Grounds Manager, Andy Gray –St. George’s Park Head of Grounds and Estates, and David Roberts – former Liverpool Football Club Grounds Manager.

“I remember it being busy and tough. I did a lot of leaf clearing and collection!” he laughs as he recollects his week with the Saints, “because I had no experience, there’s not much I could really do”. His first week at Wimbledon, however, was night and day.

“You’re on a mower, straightaway. It didn’t matter what experience you had. They were keen, they just wanted you out there, getting used to the machines.

“They weren’t scared to put people on, they were just happy to get you going. We were straightaway doing proper things, rather than just collecting things up. That’s what I remember, they were very welcoming and made you part of the team.”

A wonderful example of The Wimbledon Way. Our common purpose - together creating joy and extraordinary moments by giving everyone an unforgettable Wimbledon experience - exercised for staff as well.

First week inductions are not the only point of difference with Wimbledon. Conrad confesses that “the amount of pressure you have working here is extremely high, but it has a lot more relaxed nature about it”. Comparing to his various experiences in golf, he explains the cat-and-mouse nature of Groundsmanship on a course, rather than a court.

“You’re starting at 6am, and the first golfers are going on as soon as it’s light. You’re practically being chased by the golfers.

I’ll potentially never have that again. As a sports fan, it was amazing, especially with Andy Murray winning. As a Groundsperson, where we had less than a month to get the baselines back to green after The Championships, to see how they did that was amazing.

“Whereas here, even in the height of summer, we have until 11 o’clock. We’re a lot more relaxed, we can make sure everything is done right, we’re not rushing. Here, you’ve got a lot more time for the attention to detail.”

Get this for another first. Conrad’s first year with the All England Club, as one of the seasonal staff brought in to support the delivery of The Championships, coincided with London 2012. The first Olympic grass court tournament since tennis was reintroduced as an Olympic sport, and the first to be held at a Grand Slam venue in the Open era.

“I’ll potentially never have that again. As a sports fan, it was amazing, especially with Andy Murray winning. As a Groundsperson, where we had less than a month to get the baselines back to green after The Championships, to see how they did that was amazing.”

Something as illustrious as the Olympics, the pantheon of sport, will shine on any resume; but that should not detract from the breadth of Conrad’s CV. Following his stint at Southampton, where he continued as a matchday mower, was another fortunate first: England v Sri Lanka, 2011. The inaugural Test Match at the then Rose Bowl, and the first Test Match ever played in Hampshire, “a great experience doing that”.

Two seasons was then spent at Wimbledon, before an excursion to the USA. Another opportunity courtesy of Myerscough, connecting Conrad with The Ohio Program whereby the American university land students an internship in the States, where he was able to work at Baltimore Country Club and Miami Beach’s La Gorce Country Club, “which again, was amazing. I never thought I would be able to do that. I always wanted to travel, but to be part of, work and have a year somewhere was amazing.”

His favourite visit though, was the next six months spent in New Zealand:

“That’s one of my favourite places. New Zealand was unbelievable. Personally, I would love to move there.”

Returning back to the UK developed his armoury even further. First, he worked on a golf course, “which again was good because I had worked at all of these professional venues, and then I found myself at a normal golf club”, before moving to Hurlingham.

“There was nothing available at Wimbledon. I moved to Hurlingham Club where they have grass tennis courts and croquet, to gain that experience, so when a job did come up here, I was in a really good position.”

A vast career that has crossed cities and conquered sport: football, cricket, golf, and tennis. A Tour de Grounds, and Conrad had this advice for those starting out in their careers:

“Youngers, definitely travel and gain experience.

“I wish I had done this earlier! I wish I had come out of school and did my National Diploma. I could have travelled more. As I got older it was difficult because it became harder visa-wise. Because I would have loved to go to Europe as well.”

Despite his array of industry experience, Conrad still has a bucket list that spurs

him on. “I would love to and have always wanted to, although it’s expensive, go to Scandinavia.”

“I have heard people who have gone and done it, and they loved it. When I look back and see the photos of New Zealand and I see the mountains in the background. Golf courses in Norway that have forests in the background. That kind of stuff, that’s what I love about it.”

Wimbledon may not house hectares of forest similar to those that steal the scene in Scandinavia, but our special mix of grass courts with ivy walls and hydrangeas adjacent, are just as magical. The Championships has seen generations come and go. Each with their own momentous rivalries, triumphant feats, and heroic defeats. Historic and career-defining moments of unexpected that have taken place on the world’s most prestigious tennis stage.

Unimaginable to picture those moments without the two-tone lawn green customary backdrop with which Wimbledon is intrinsically linked. Our English country garden setting has been the ‘always’ of Wimbledon since its formation. Something Conrad is acutely aware of.

“For me, I love building up to The Championships. That’s what’s special. The build-up. You’ve got something to aim for. And then it starts all again. That’s a great feeling. That’s what I love”.

It’s ‘always like never before’.

A mantra that emphasises the honouring of iconic history, balanced with continual innovation. To be at the pinnacle of sport. That, in Grounds, includes technology.

“They’ve embraced it. Even down to the machines that we’re using on courts. The mowers have gone electric. We’re looking at electric sprayers. Although the machines are staying the same, the technology has changed drastically. When we were first looking at electric mowers, you would have had to have dragged the battery around with you.

“It’s improving for the good, and hopefully that will just continue.”

Wimbledon has a pivotal role to play in helping to protect the environment, today and for the future. As part of our ongoing journey of environmental sustainability, electric lawnmowers and horticulture equipment are used around the Grounds. The most famous of which, of course, is Little Nicky, the small GPS-guided robotic mowertrundling up and down the slope of The Hill, trimming back any new growth. Which, Conrad confesses, wasn’t love at first sight.

“I was very sceptical. I didn’t like the idea. But when you see what it can do on an area like that” - one teeming with spectators: sunbathing, sipping and soaking up Wimbledon’s atmosphere and giant-screen action during The Championships - it results in an effective reallocation of resource. “You might have lost two people up there a few days a week.”

Conrad makes clear throughout the conversation the formula for progression in the industry. Innovation is one half of the equation. Collaboration is the other. “You’ve always got things to learn”, explaining that one of the effects of COVID-19 is now being corrected, “we have just started doing site visits again”. During the winter, with the weather unfavourable for attending to the grass courts, our Grounds department use this time to focus on the educational side of the job.

This year the team received talks from various industry partner and supplier stakeholders, including the Marketing Manager of DLF - the world’s largest producer and distributor of grass seed and home to one of the world’s largest research and breeding programmes for both turf and forage, and the Vice President of Stevens Water Monitoring Systems – experts in Hydrology, Environmental Monitoring, Soil physics and chemistry, and Agronomy, speaking about a new addition to their irrigation department’s arsenal.

Externally, All England Club Groundstaff visited The Queen’s Club. A useful comparison exercise, witnessing the range of racket sports on offer and how their team adapt and prepare for The Cinch Championships. Outside of tennis, the team travelled to Twickenham in the lead up to England taking on Ireland on Saturday 9 March during the penultimate round of the 2024 Six Nations Championship, to understand the challenges of a sand-based pitch and the differences in maintenance. Finally, the team were hosted by Origin Amenity at their research facility at Throws Farm, Essex, as part of an ‘Open Research Day’ to discuss disease pressure monitoring and prevention.

“It’s going and seeing what they’re doing, the technology they’re using and how we can transfer that across. If we just stay here, in our little bubble, we wouldn’t learn. Learning keeps you at the top, keeps you at a high level.

“That’s what I love about this industry. It’s so small and everyone respects each other. If you get a question from anyone else, everyone’s happy to help and try guide people in the right direction”.

It’s a close-knit, connected community. They look out for each other whilst setting the stages for stories to unfold. The annual campaign of #GroundsWeek aims to raise the nation’s awareness of grounds management, celebrating its vital importance within sport. Encouraging those with ‘career curiosity’ to take their first steps into pursuing a rewarding role within the sector. To young sports fans everywhere, and to those longing for a career change:

“Don’t be scared to challenge yourself. I left a perfectly good job to risk going into a new industry. It’s that hesitancy, but once you do it, you challenge yourself, you’re going to get stronger and stronger.”

Reesink’s ReeAssure Gold plan

Littlestone Golf Club in Kent made a strategic move in 2021, becoming a Toro Total Solutions customer, which included upgrading its fleet with Toro machinery and implementing a Toro Lynx Central Control irrigation system. To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of their investment, they enrolled in Reesink’s ReeAssure Gold maintenance scheme.

Head greenkeeper Chris Barnard highlighted the club’s plans for course alterations, including bunker redesigns and new tees, which aligned perfectly with the need for upgraded machinery and irrigation systems. With a comprehensive 23-machine deal covering various equipment like

mowers, aerators, sprayers, and utility vehicles, the club recognized the importance of ongoing maintenance support.

Chris emphasized the limitations of in-house maintenance due to time constraints and lack of specialized expertise, necessitating external assistance. Reesink’s ReeAssure Gold plan offered unlimited visits, coverage for breakdowns and call-outs, the use of genuine Toro parts, and comprehensive support for electrical components, all administered through the South East Sheffield Park branch.

The decision to renew their partnership with Reesink stemmed from a history of reliability and trust, coupled with a commitment to Toro’s quality. Opting

for Toro’s Lynx Central Control system for irrigation management further underlined the club’s dedication to cutting-edge technology and efficient resource management.

Chris expressed satisfaction with Reesink’s prompt and knowledgeable service, enabling the club to delegate maintenance tasks and focus on course management and development projects. With the assurance of reliable support, Littlestone Golf Club looks forward to enhancing its facilities and operations, confident that their equipment is in capable hands.

For those interested in learning more about Reesink’s maintenance plans, they can contact 01480 226800 or visit www.reesinkturfcare.co.uk.

The all-electric Toro Groundsmaster e3200. All-day power, all-day performance.

For 50 years, you’ve relied on the Groundsmaster range for a first-rate cut. Now it’s evolving. Powered by HyperCell® technology, our first battery-powered out-front rotary mower offers the performance and cut you know and love –but with zero operating emissions and a significantly quieter ride.

reesinkturfcare.co.uk BOOK YOUR DEMO NOW!

Hydrotrench Drainage System

/ broken areas of pipe drainage.

in clay ground or racecourses that

Stunning Benefits

• Manufactured in the UK using up to 95% or greater recycled plastic content

• Long-lasting, no compaction, no pipe blockages and no pipe breakages

• Rapid installation

• Works in any soil type (including clay)

• Primary system and / or rejuvenates failed or damaged drainage systems

Estimated net carbon saving of minus 4.5Kg CO2e per panel

• Superior reliability, more efficient and fewer materials than traditional drainage methods

Stunning Results

• Waterlogged home gardens,

end of the run to facilitate outfall you don’t want it…to where you drainage systems

www.rouden.co.uk

Hydrotrench is a groundbreaking modular drainage Panel system that will transform how you solve garden, patio / paving and driveway edge drainage, once and for all!

▶ MANUFACTURED IN THE UK USING UP TO 90% OR GREATER RECYCLED POLYMERS

▶ WORKS IN ANY SOIL TYPE (INCLUDING CLAY) & REJUVENATES FAILED EXISTING SYSTEMS

▶ FASTER, MORE EFFICIENT, LESS LABOUR & MATERIALS THAN FRENCH DRAINS AND SLOT DRAINS

Take your landscape to new heights with Otterbine’s giant fountains

For landscape architects, designers and contractors looking for the finishing touch to provide focus, impact and texture to the landscape they’re creating, Otterbine is the solution.

Whichever fountain customers pick from the seven strong Giant Fountain range, they can be sure of two things: quality and quantity.

The quality comes from knowing:

• Otterbine provides the highest oxygen transfer and pumping rates in the industry - independent testing by the University of Minnesota and GSEE prove it

• These fountains keep water healthy by adding up to 3.3lbs or 1.5kg of oxygen per horsepower hour into the water and pumping over 920GPM or 199m3/hr per horsepower hour

• They treating the water above and below the surface, eliminating the need for chemicals and attracting wildlife

• They’re manufactured with 316 marine-grade stainless steel - one

When choosing Otterbine customers make the decision to choose simplicity, ease, quality and quantity, plus a guarantee of a long life, all at a competitive price point

of the highest on the marketmaking then corrosion resistant

• With an average lifespan of over 15 years and backed by an all-inclusive four-year warranty, they’re built to last.

In a nutshell, they’re a quality product delivering a sustainable solution to any water body, but equally as important is the pleasure they bring to visitors, residents and onlookers, and this is delivered by the quantity of impactful features:

• Display heights of up to a staggering 90ft or 27m

• Magnificent multi-dimensional cascading patterns of up to 121ft

• Good fan pattern for impressive width across the lake

• colour changing lights with a variety of coloured displays and sequences

• Water is kept clean and clear thanks to the unique screening system and an adjustable float to minimise unit visibility in the water

• All units are energy efficient and virtually maintenance free!

Constructed for ease of use, this line allows for operation in shallow operating depths of only 40ins or 1m, while large wheels on the frames improve mobility so the unit can be moved around the lake and eliminating the need for hoists and cranes during installation in most instances (installation really could not be easier!).

When choosing Otterbine customers make the decision to choose simplicity, ease, quality and quantity, plus a guarantee of a long life, all at a competitive price point. The collection comprises the Aqua Star, Aries, Equinox, Mystic, Polaris, Super Nova, and Triad, all featuring multi-tiered and multi-dimensional designs making it easy to find the right fit for the space and helping to make a space come alive.

Find out how to take your landscape to new heights with Otterbine by visiting distributor Reesink Hydro-Scapes at www.reesink-hydroscapes.co.uk

Otterbine fountains keep water healthy by adding up to 3.3lbs or 1.5kg of oxygen per horsepower hour into the water .

Reliable solutions for industrial, agricultural and domestic needs

Irrigation systems are adapting towards more sustainable practices to suit our increasing global population, climate change and increased water scarcity.

For 63 years T-T Pumps Ltd has been innovating reliable solutions for industrial, agricultural and domestic needs – including Hidro Boost clean water pressurisation sets. Ideal for modern irrigation, they have been supplied to equestrian centres, football clubs, golf clubs and other applications.

Used for crop growth, livestock welfare and sports pitch maintenance, the set you use depends on the site’s parameters. The Hidro Boost comes in a variety of sizes – with single, twin, triple, quadruple, and bespoke sets available for domestic to industrial applications.

When choosing a water booster for irrigation you must consider the water demand and total head.

“

When choosing a water boosting set for irrigation applications, take care to consider the lifetime of the system and if it will require regular maintenance or replacements.

The total head is a combination of elements such as pressure loss from fluid friction in the system; vertical and ‘static’ lift across the pumped line; and pressure requirements at discharge points such as water features.

These factors combine with the water demanded of the application to reveal the site-specific duty point which must be achieved for optimal performance. Consideration around the best sprinklers, valves and other elements is advised to reduce system inefficiencies to benefit the environment and your energy expenditure.

Variable speed control drives can improve efficiency, such as the Vasco range available with T-T’s Hidro Boost. They adjust a booster’s flow rate in response to fluctuating demands, reliably keeping the system’s pressure levels within a pre-set range. This uses less energy than a fixed speed set, which aims to retain a desired flow rate through switching pumps on and off.

Manufactured with stainless steel, Hidro Boosts are resistant to high pressure flow and chemical corrosion. These features lend themselves to a low level of maintenance and long operational life, reducing the need for regular repairs and replacements, therefore cutting maintenance costs and the impact that upkeep could have on the environment.

When choosing a water boosting set for irrigation applications, take care to consider the lifetime of the system and if it will require regular maintenance or replacements; the components inside of the booster and if it has been correctly sized to suit the site’s specific criteria; and how the system will regulate flow pressure for both energy efficient and reliable irrigation.

Website - www.ttpumps.com/ Phone - +44 (0)1630 647200

Email - response@ttpumps.com

Address - T-T Pumps, Woore, Cheshire, CW3 9RU, United Kingdom

Terrain Aeration injects polymer

While it may be wet, water everywhere at the moment we will soon be heading into the summer months. That’s when the problems begin for turf and trees. Increasingly, year on year, we are seeing the effects of global warming across our landscape as droughts persist. Sports pitches, golf courses, trees in parks, amenity areas right through to lawns in private gardens will all suffer from the lack of rainfall. Ground becomes hard and compacted to considerable depth and when the rains do come, this often leads to standing surface water and waterlogging.

Suffolk-based Terrain Aeration has specialised in one-metre deep soil aeration to relieve compaction, panning, and waterlogging nationally for over thirty years. While that takes care of the drainage and aeration when it’s very wet there remains the opposite problem of grass and tree roots not getting enough water in periods of drought. It’s a problem addressed by the same machine, Terrain Aeration’s

Terralift system, that aerates the soil at depth by releasing compressed air via its one-metre depth probe. As that fragments the soil to create fissures and cracks to allow drainage and aeration, the probe can also inject water-storing polymer. Once in place, the polymer will expand one-hundred fold with rainwater or irrigation water which it stores for the turf or tree roots to take up as needed.

It’s a one-way system, so the polymer does not take water from the roots.

In this way, we will be able to make better use of what water we have and it’s a very long-term process as the polymer takes a long time to degrade. Spreading the polymer on the surface is not practical, as when it rains it turns into a gel, making the area dangerous to walk and play on. Injecting it into the ground using the Terralift machine offers the best, most beneficial, and wholly cost-effective method, says the company. Terrain Aeration is the only operator of the Terralift in the UK and the treatment has proven itself since 1985. There are different versions of the machine to treat large open spaces such as sports grounds, golf courses, and avenues of trees to narrow accesses onto bowling greens and gardens. Anywhere from airports to zoos.

www.terrainaeration.co.uk

01449 673783

Terrain Aeration’s long-term treatment reaches one metre deep where compressed air blasts the compaction.

The soil is opened up for good drainage and a healthy sward with minimum disruption. We have been successfully aerating sports turf, bowling greens, golf courses, parks, trees and gardens for over twenty-five years.

Golf Course Renovation: Become a Master(planner)

Agolf course renovation is a meticulous process, one that requires the consideration of various factors along with a clear, detailed masterplan to ensure a successful outcome.

A well-planned renovation can enhance the overall experience for golfers, improve the course’s playability and aesthetics, reduces maintenance and contributes to the long-term sustainability and success of the facility.

The Need for Renovations:

• Deterioration of Course Conditions: Over time, golf courses will experience wear and tear due to factors such as traffic, weather conditions, vegetation growth and/ or aging infrastructure. This can lead to issues such as sub-standard

turf quality, poor drainage and deteriorating amenities.

• Player Expectations: Golfers’ preferences and expectations evolve over time. They may seek courses that offer modern amenities, more challenging and enjoyable layouts, and/or more visually appealing landscapes.

• Market Competition: In a competitive golf market, courses need to stay competitive by offering a high-quality experience that attracts and retains players.

• Environmental and Sustainability Concerns: Renovations can also address environmental sustainability by improving water conservation, enhancing biodiversity, and reducing chemical usage.

• Safety: Continuous advancements in technology for golf equipment have resulted in considerable increases in distance, thus requiring an increase in safety measures/ buffers to accommodate the longer wayward shots.

The Benefits of Planning for Renovations:

• Masterplan: Advanced planning helps define the goals, scope, and vision for the renovation, ensuring that all stakeholders are aligned and working towards a common objective.

• Budget & Timeframe Optimization: A well-planned renovation programme allows for accurate budgeting, cost estimation and resource allocation, phased over a period of time that minimizes the

risk of financial challenges and operational disruption.

• Quality Control: Through detailed planning, specifications, and quality assurance, a renovation project can achieve high-quality results that meet or exceed expectations.

• Risk Mitigation: Identifying potential risks, challenges, and requirements during the planning

phase enables proactive risk management strategies, reducing the likelihood of project delays or failures.

• Long-Term Impact: A well-planned and well-executed renovation can have a long-lasting impact on a golf course’s reputation, financial performance, maintenance efficiency and environmental sustainability, benefiting the club

“

A well-planned renovation can enhance the overall experience for golfers, improve the course’s playability and aesthetics, reduces maintenance and contributes to the longterm sustainability and success of the facility.

and the golfers for the foreseeable future.

Key Steps in Renovation Planning: Appoint a Golf Course Architect

:

The most important thing for any course project is to hire a qualified golf course architect (from the only recognized European organization, the European Institute of Golf Course Architects, www.eigca.org). The architect will work closely with the client to translate their goals and vision into actionable designs, plans, and specifications. They will provide an external assessment of the golf course,

identifying strengths, weaknesses and opportunities within the golf course and potentially identifying other future issues that should be addressed. An experienced architect can also assist in the project phasing and timing, can help identify and vet qualified contractors, and also engage with any specialist consultants/suppliers (irrigation, bunker liner, environmental, etc.) as needed. The architect’s expertise in design, agronomy, engineering, and environmental sustainability is invaluable in creating a successful renovation strategy, including the following tasks:

• Existing Documents & Information:

The first step is to gather as much information as possible with regards to the golf course. Historical documents, photos, aerial images, as-built drawings, topography plans and any other documents that could

be relevant to the potential project should be gathered to be used as part of the assessment, evaluation and design processes.

• Assessment and Evaluation:

Begin by conducting a comprehensive internal assessment of the current course conditions, including turf quality, drainage systems, irrigation infrastructure, bunkers, greens, tees, fairways, and on and off-course amenities. Gather feedback from maintenance staff to identify areas that require improvement or renovation.

• Project Vision & Goal Setting:

Define initial goals and objectives for the renovation project. Consider factors such as: addressing maintenance issues, enhancing playability, improving aesthetics, incorporating more sustainable practices, improving safety and

adhering to new regulatory requirements. Develop a vision that guides the planning and implementation process.

• Regulations and Permits:

Understand and comply with regulatory requirements, environmental standards, zoning regulations and/or permits necessary for the renovation work. It is important to apply for and obtain approvals from local authorities, environmental agencies, as early as possible to avoid any potential delays or setbacks.

• Design Development:

Develop detailed drawings, specifications, budget pricing and a bill of quantities for the renovation work. Depending on the extent of the renovation, factors such as course layout, turfgrass selection, irrigation design, bunker renovations,

green complexes, tees, cart paths, landscaping, and amenities should be considered. These documents shall form the basis for the Tender and Construction documents for the project.

• Budget & Finances:

Develop a detailed budget that accounts for design fees, estimated construction costs, materials, labor, equipment, contingency reserves, and professional services. If required, explore potential financing options such as loans, grants, sponsorships, or fundraising to help support the renovation project.

• Construction Programme & Phasing:

Create a detailed construction programme, including: procurement of materials and equipment, mobilization, project scheduling, logistics, site preparation, safety measures, existing site protection and environmental protection practices.

Determine the size and extent of the renovation, along with the budget/financing, the climate and

The architect’s expertise in design, agronomy, engineering, and environmental sustainability is invaluable in creating a successful renovation strategy. “

seasons, and the disruption to the existing course for the players and operations team. If required, the project can be split into phases, executed over an extended period of time, to make the whole project more manageable financially and less disruptive operationally.

Outline a construction programme and management plan, detailing the roles, responsibilities, communication protocols, supervision and quality control measures for all parties during the construction period.

• Pre-Tender Process:

Identify and vet qualified

contractors prior to commencing the tender process. Once a short list of contractors (minimum 3 or more) has been fully vetted, any final revisions to the detail design documents and construction programme will be made prior to initiating the Tender process.

Summary:

Planning for a golf course renovation is a multi-faceted process that requires thorough analysis, strategic decisionmaking and an effective project programme. Investing time, effort and resources into planning, with the support and experience of a qualified golf course architect, will result in transformative renovations that elevate the golfing experience, enhance a course’s stature, and provides for more efficient and effective maintenance practices.

A well-planned renovation not only addresses current challenges but also positions a golf course for future growth, sustainability and competitiveness within a dynamic golf industry.

Overcoming Dollar Spot

Alderney Golf Club’s Triumph with Origin Amenity Solutions

Astunning coastal golf course located on Alderney Island, the third largest of the Channel Islands, Alderney Golf Club is a haven for golf enthusiasts seeking both challenge and natural beauty.

In recent years, the club faced a persistent threat to its greens in the form of Dollar Spot, a fungal disease notorious for its detrimental impact on turf health and playing performance.

Dollar spot causes small tanned spots about the size of a Dollar coin (Dollar Spot!) around 2-5cm in diameter. It is spread through small bits of mycelium moving to a new plant host. They move in water and can also be spread on shoes, golf equipment, and turf management equipment. Spots can typically coalesce which can wipe out large areas of turf.

At Alderney Golf Club, both Poa and Bent grasses contribute to the botanical sward composition. Unfortunately, Dollar Spot threatens both grass species and their susceptibility to the disease necessitated a targeted management approach.

Dollar Spot has plagued Alderney Golf Club for half a decade. Despite efforts to control it, the disease was historically initiated in June. In response to this challenge, Alderney Golf Club sought the expertise of Origin Amenity Solutions

(OAS), a leading provider of turf management solutions. Working closely with OAS technical advisor Marcus Hewitt, the club devised a proactive strategy to combat Dollar Spot and rejuvenate its greens.

OAS recommended the implementation of Exteris Stressgard, a potent fungicide, applied in mid-May with a followup application two weeks later. This preemptive approach aims to suppress the Dollar Spot before it gains momentum.

Maintaining a healthy plant is extremely important when managing Dollar Spot so the Course Manager Paul Flairclough focused on enhancing turf health. A tailored regimen comprising Liquid N, Seaweed, and Elevate Fe, supported by a wetting agent programme featuring Tricure AD and Seaquest, strengthened the turf against disease while promoting vigour and resilience.

The success story of Alderney Golf Club stands as a testament to the power of strategic collaboration and innovation in turf management. “

The results were remarkable. Paul comments ‘Since working with Marcus from OAS the course has been in immaculate condition. Marcus’ support with Dollar Spot management has improved summer playing conditions on the greens and our membership and visitors have provided excellent feedback.’

As autumn approached, Dollar Spot pressure continued due to the high humidity. Dedicate fungicide was applied with Trimate in September keeping the greens Dollar Spot free and prepared for any

Microdochium Patch outbreaks that would often start in late September.

The success story of Alderney Golf Club stands as a testament to the power of strategic collaboration and innovation in turf management. By partnering with Origin Amenity Solutions and embracing cuttingedge solutions, the club not only conquered Dollar Spot but also elevated the overall quality of its greens. Today, Alderney Golf Club continues to shine as a beacon of resilience and excellence, offering an unrivaled experience amidst the unspoilt terrain of the Channel Islands.

Paul concludes, “Exteris worked extremely well on our golf course and we had good control over Dollar Spot for the first time in five years on this site. Due to the Stressgard technology, the grass was healthy and looking amazing.”

www.originamenity.com

New Rangeline product improves range economics and visuals

ZLine introduces zero maintenance synthetic solution for bunkers on practice facilities

Sand bunkers are expensive items for golf courses to maintain, given the standards now expected by golfers. This level of maintenance is only justifiable for bunkers that get plenty of use: if a lot of players visit a bunker, then it is worth spending the money to keep it in primo condition.

But on practice ranges, where bunkers are purely aiming tools, and never get any actual play, bunker maintenance is wholly a waste of money. Thus it is tempting for course operators to dig holes on their range, fill them with sand, and leave them be. But this approach too has its problems: wind and rain will

cause the bunker sand to move around and to be contaminated with other substances, reducing, even possibily eliminating, the value of having the bunker on the range in the first place. The newly-launched RANGEline product from ZLine Products, is the answer.

RANGEline consists of sandcoloured synthetic material, which is installed on the range in lieu of bunkers. It is UV coated to ensure that the color can withstand sunlight exposure and seamlessly replicates the aesthetic value of sand bunkers on the range, giving golfers a powerful aiming tool, but it is essentially maintenance-free. The product was formerly known at SRL-16, but has been redesigned to be thicker and denser, so it absorbs impacts better.

“RANGEline helps course operators improve the playability and shotmaking of their practice ranges, without increasing maintenance costs,” says Casey

“

RANGEline helps course operators improve the playability and shotmaking of their practice ranges, without increasing maintenance costs.

Jones, inernational operations manager of ZLine. “It is very costeffective – the cost of the product is roughly the same as sand – and over time it will produce an excellent return on investment. Ball picking from RANGEline is much easier than from a sand bunker, as the picking machine can drive over it. Even if the ‘bunker’ is inaccessible to the picker, it is far easier to rake up the balls than to pick them from sand – which has to be done by hand.”

C Looking for a lap-bar zero-turn?

ub Cadet has created their strongest line up of lap-bar zeroturn riders – whether you are a landscape professional looking for a machine that can handle any terrain or a small business owner looking for a machine for your customers large lawn maintenance. You can book a demo of our machines at www.cubcadet.co.uk/ book-a-demo

Once tried. Never forgotten.

XZ5 Series

The latest lap-bar technology combined with the extremely robust construction of heavy-duty components, high-performance engine and operator comfort makes the XZ5 Series the ideal machines for large lawn maintenance.

Powerful Cub Cadet and Kawasaki engines mean the machines can reach up to 12 km/h, mowing areas up to 12,500 m²h.

The open continuous tubular lightweight steel frame designed for strength and durability with its hinged/removable floor pan allows quick, easy access to the fabricated deck for ease of maintenance.

With cutting widths of 42”, 50” and 54” the three machines put comfort at the forefront of their design with individually adjustable seats

With

large cutting widths of 48” and 60”, the machines put comfort at the forefront of their design with a premium high-back seat with armrests and adjustable suspension for fatigue-free working.

and high backrests for fatigue-free working.

XZ7 Series

The XZ7 Series make a great impression with their strength, stability and durability. You can easily mow in comfort even under tough conditions.

A powerful Kawasaki (or Kohler EFI) V-Twin dual cylinder engine gives the machines the power to mow up to 15,000 m²h and reach up to 14.5 km/h. The fabricated

mowing decks are designed for high performance and resistance. Even on the most difficult lawns the spring-mounted suspension on the front wheels ensure a smooth ride with less vibration.

With large cutting widths of 48” and 60”, the machines put comfort at the forefront of their design with a premium high-back seat with armrests and adjustable suspension for fatigue-free working.

At Cub Cadet we trust our machines to perform with maximum durability and robustness and offer a warranty of 3 years or up to 500 working hours (whichever comes first) on our XZ7 Series and 3 years on our XZ5 Series – as well as offering a dealership service that delivers true advantages to you and your business.

For more information or to book a demo go to www.cubcadet.co.uk/ book-a-demo

Our lap-bar technology combined with the robust construction consisting of heavy-duty components and high-performance engines help make the XZ5 and XZ7 Series the ideal solution for large lawn areas.

Now with the added bonus of a free DEWALT 54V Axial Blower designed for fast and effective removal of leaves, twigs, moss and other stubborn garden matter, suitable for blowing on wide areas.

Behind the Scenes

The Rigorous Safety Testing of Trimax Mowers Unveiled

n the dynamic landscape of turf maintenance, where the wheels of progress are in perpetual motion, the unspoken hero is often overlooked. Picture this: the hum of machinery, the scent of hard work in the air, and the collective pulse of an industry beating with ambition. Yet, beneath this bustling surface lies a crucial undercurrent – a commitment to uncompromising safety.

For Trimax, world leader in flail and rotary cutting equipment, safety isn’t just a tick box exercise.

“From the design and development of our machines to the testing and manufacturing processes, safety is always at the forefront of our minds. We believe that by prioritising safety, we can not only protect operators but also enhance their productivity and efficiency.”

Caroline Shaw, Global Brand Manager at Trimax. Here we’ve got an exclusive,

behind the scenes look at the meticulous safety testing that every Trimax machine undergoes before it hits the market!

Thrown Object Testing

When cutting grass, mowers can come into contact with foreign objects like stones, sticks, and golf balls. When mowers come into contact with them, there is a danger that the struck object may be thrown and cause injury to the operator or any bystanders. The thrown object test looks at how and where objects are dispersed.

During the test, the machine is surrounded by specified targets and will run over sand and stones. To pass the test, no object can be thrown to the side or in the operator area, and only low impacts in the discharge area are acceptable.

Blade Impact Testing

Although Trimax blades are designed and made with durability in mind, in the event of a blade breakage, it must not fall in an unsafe way.

During testing, the mower is surrounded by targets. While the blades are moving, the mower is lowered onto a high-tensile steel bar.

To pass the blade impact test, there must be no loss of any part of the mower, and the targets must not be punctured by blades or any other part of the mower weighing more than 30g.

From the design and development of our machines to the testing and manufacturing processes, safety is always at the forefront of our minds. We believe that by prioritising safety, we can not only protect operators but also enhance their productivity and efficiency. “

The purpose of this test is to ensure that if any part of the cutting system fails or comes into contact with anything that could cause damage, there is no hazard to the operator or anyone nearby.

Designing and Testing for Finger and Limb Safety

Due to the nature of a mower, it’s imperative that fingers or limbs cannot get close to the blades, especially while in motion. For this reason, every hazard zone/

opening to moving parts has been carefully considered by Trimax, ensuring maximum safety.

Testing for Foot Access to the Cutting Chamber

Another important test is foot access. During testing, Trimax probes the cutting chamber with a dummy foot to evaluate the level of access around the machine, this ensures maximum protection for both the operator and any bystanders.

Trimax Mowers: Safer By Design

When it comes to safety, Trimax is setting the standard. Their uncompromising safety measures, extensive testing, and innovative safety features are what set them apart from the competition.

To find out more about the safety or testing of Trimax mowers, call 01933 652235 or visit www.trimaxmowers.co.uk/

It’s ‘Sandfiller Season’ says GKB Machines

Careful management of organic matter levels is critical to optimising both the health and play characteristics of golf greens. When it comes to managing these thatch layers, there is no universal tool or technique that will suit every course, however methods and machines are now at our disposal that are far less disruptive and can incorporate additional operations such as simultaneous sand injection which helps to bring surfaces back into play even quicker. One such machine is the Sandfiller from GKB.

The GKB Sandfiller scarifies the surface down to depths of up to 40mm, removing organic matter and creating channels which are simultaneously filled with sand or a combination of sand and seed – maximising efficiency and improving drainage and ground firmness in one pass. The unit features a 400L hopper to collect the removed material, leaving a clean and tidy finish and allowing the surface to be back in play almost instantly.

One venue who employed the services of a contractor last September to conduct the Sandfiller operation is Wenvoe Castle Golf Club. Head Greenkeeper

Now in February, our organic matter readings have reduced, and the greens are definitely firmer. Despite all the rainfall, we’ve managed to get a triple on the greens which just wouldn’t have been possible before

Lucy Sellick explains, “The wetter winters, combined with a smaller than normal greenkeeping team, meant we were looking for a fast and effective solution to removing organic matter and firming up the greens. The contractor began on a Thursday morning, and by Friday lunchtime all 19 greens were back in play – with organic matter removed, backfilled with 22 tons of kiln-dried sand and just one team member brushing in the remaining surface sand. Any concerns we had about how the Sandfiller would handle our Mackenzie style slopes and undulations were also unfounded.”

“Now in February, our organic matter readings have reduced, and the greens are definitely firmer. Despite all the rainfall, we’ve managed to get a triple on the greens which just wouldn’t have been possible before.” She concludes, “We had the Sandfiller in during spring renovations back in 2023 to carry out scarification work only, and have it booked in again this September where it’ll play an important role in our pre-winter renovations and organic matter management once again.”

www.gkbmachines.com

Aerial photos of the Sandfiller operation, in action at Wenvoe Castle Golf Club

Just the right equipment for the job

Here at AJ Mowers we pride ourselves on helping our customers find just the right equipment for the job. We spend the time to understand your needs, visit you on site, arrange demos whenever we can and provide a range of options that meet your requirements and budget.

This is precisely what we have done with Wiltshire College & University Centre. The Lackham estate is home to their specialist land-based courses - set within 1000 acres of farmland and bordered by ancient woodland, the Gardens Team takes great pride in maintaining the historic grounds to a high standard. Having spent some time understanding what the Team needed, we recommended a Toro 7500-D Z-Master to them and they took delivery of their first one at the start of 2023.

As Oliver Adams, Grounds Manager, explained last year, “with the Toro Z-Master our diverse range of cutting requirements have been met with ease, with areas including arboretums, formal gardens, amenity lawns and sports pitches”. Oliver and his team have enjoyed the great manoeuvrability offered by the zero turn controls along with lower levels of operator fatigue, economical fuel consumption, and lower sound output

(meaning minimal disruption when working near classrooms).

So, when earlier this year the Team had the opportunity to add to their fleet then the obvious choice was another Z-Master. They took delivery of their second one just a couple of months ago and now both machines are busy looking after the grounds of the Lackham estate.

If you’d like to explore whether a GrandStand might suit your needs, give us a call on 0117 960 0173 or 07392 948439. Alternatively, drop us an email at sales@ajmowers.co.uk

We are groundcare machinery specialists serving Bristol and surrounding areas (including Dorset, Wiltshire, South Gloucestershire and North Somerset). With unrivalled skills, knowledge and experience in the commercial groundcare sector, if you’ve got it, we can work on it: commercial and golf mowing equipment, tractors, chippers, utility vehicles, spiking and slitting equipment and flail mowing equipment.

We work with a wide range of golf clubs, major sports grounds, large schools, colleges, universities and local councils – supporting them in all areas: sales, servicing, maintenance, repairs, parts and hire.

As an authorised dealer for Toro, Hayter, Kioti and TP Chippers we can provide advice and guidance for customers looking to invest in new equipment, as well as arranging on-site demonstrations. Given the breadth of our customer base, we also have a great pipeline of quality, used machines available.

Groundcare Machinery Specialist

For general enquiries please call us on 0117 960 0173 or email info@ajmowers.co.uk. For sales enquiries (new and used) please call our Sales Director on 07392 948439 or email sales@ajmowers.co.uk

Verti-Quake and Verti-Drain combo help Wrekin GC weather the challenge of increased rainfall

Like many, the team at Wrekin Golf Club have recorded extraordinary levels of rainfall over the winter of 2023/24. And yet, Course Manager Gary Turner explains that they’ve emerged with free-draining fairways, which he attributes to a single pass with their Redexim Verti-Quake. The timely purchase in the autumn has now been followed up by the delivery of a Redexim Verti-Drain 1517 to further improve aeration results and enhance drainage in other areas of the course.

Nestled at the base of the Wrekin and surrounded by both natural woodland and picturesque views, Gary is now into his 20th year at the Telford club. A lack of available resources has meant that no aeration has been conducted on the fairways for the last three or four years, which is why the delivery of the Verti-Quake 2516 by Charlies Ag & Turf in September 2023, has been hailed a ‘godsend!’

“They had begun to lay wet so we knew it would take something robust to break through those years of compaction. The budget we had at the time allowed us to purchase the 2516, which went out on the fairways almost as soon as it came through the gates and the results were astounding! We created channels at depths of 4” and transformed the fairways into the driest part of the course with just one pass.”

“The plan will be to utilise this during renovation weeks in March and September and complement

the linear aeration with monthly passes of our new Verti-Drain 1517 on the fairways, as well as the greens and tees.”

The 1517 from the award-winning Redexim range offers a lightweight aeration solution with a 1.7m working width and 6” working depth – a combination that makes it a popular choice for sensitive turf areas. It’s larger size and faster operating speed compared to Gary’s previous aerator presents more effective results, in less time.

“Matt Lewis from Charlie’s delivered the Verti-Drain at the start of March and, as soon as it was dry enough, we passed over all 18 greens with 12mm solid

tines, in three and a half hours less than the task previously took. A few weeks on and we can still see the holes.” Gary adds, “We plan to follow the monthly verti-draining with applications of dressing, which will bring multiple benefits to the profile and help us manage the challenges posed by mother nature!”

He concludes, “The service we’ve had from Matt and the Charlie’s team has been excellent at every stage and the machines have already proven to be the best, and most timely, purchases we’ve ever made.”

www.redexim.com

We offer a large range of rakes for all reasons, in sizes ranging from 35cm to 100cm wide, with a variety of tooth gaps. We also offer a heavy duty aluminium snow type multi-purpose shovel, Animal bedding forks and our new Chelute® .

The KSAB SprinklerTrim

Introduced at the BTME Harrogate in 2024 after a successful launch on the Swedish

The SprinklerTrim drastically reduces the time and labour required to trim around irrigation heads. It’s fast efficient cut accurately removes excess turf around irrigation heads and produces a consistent finish with significant cost savings.

Cordless drill powered irrigation head

(18V drill recommended 40-60 Nm chuck 13mm- not

Choice of 7 blade cutting sizes for Toro, Rainbird, Perrot Built in spacer controls

irrigation heads. It’s fast efficient cut accurately removes excess turf around irrigation heads and produces a consistent finish with significant cost savings.

•Cordless drill powered irrigation head trimmer (18V drill recommended 40-60 Nm chuck 13mm- not included)

•Choice of 7 blade cutting sizes for Toro, Rainbird, Perrot and Hunter irrigation heads

•Built in spacer controls cutting depth to prevent solenoid damage

•Heavy duty steel construction

Tel: 01371 705030 office@daylinks.co.uk www.daylinks.co.uk

Kress RTKn Robotic Mowers for Commercial Use

Revolutionising Turf Care for Groundkeepers and Sports Facility Owners

ith Kress Mission Mega RTKn mowers, Kress once again showcases the pinnacle of possibilities in automated mowing for commercial grounds. Building on the success of the RTKn series, Kress combines RTKn (Real-time kinematic to the power of network), MAP (Mowing Action Plan), OAS (Obstacle Avoidance System), and other proven technologies with unique developments to usher in a new era of performance and precision. Unlike conventional robotic mowers relying on powered antennas, Kress RTKn remains immune to power surge damages. The absence of on-site antennas enhances the system’s reliability and resilience, ensuring uninterrupted mowing.

Setting the standard for unmanned mowing, Mission RTKn models embody the future of turf care. Equipped with recharging brake systems and Kress

Setting the standard for unmanned mowing, Mission RTKn models embody the future of turf care.

intelligence, they represent the epitome of efficiency and reliability. Taking it a step further, Mega RTKn models, such as the KR233E and KR236E, not only incorporate the features of Mission RTKn models but also introduce double layered blades for

fine clippings in denser turfgrass. With a wider cutting width of 13.8 inches and TeamWork collaborative technology, Mega RTKn mowers improve the commercial turf care experience.

Kress RTKn is the ideal solution for all kinds of applications, including sports grounds, golf greens, athletic fields, large properties, school campuses, resorts and more. Unmanned mowing revolutionises turf management, providing a quiet, emission-free alternative that removes the financial burden of manned mowing. Decrease labour costs, reduce energy bills, and minimise maintenance expenses. The operational savings and health benefits provided by Kress RTKn make it a wise investment for any groundskeeper or sports facility owner.

www.kress.com/en-gb/ rtkn-without-boundary-wire

THE FUTURE OF UNMANNED MOWING IS NOW.

The Kress RTKn robot mowers extend unmanned mowing to larger areas. They efficiently operate in parallel lines and autonomously move from one area to another, as if driven by humans. There is no need for boundary wires or on-site aerials. The Kress RTKn robot mowers maintain areas of up to 36,000 m² each.

Speak to your local grounds maintenance machinery dealer today to learn more.

Further work at the Aberdovey Golf Club sees Wetland Habitats continue to Flourish

ollowing on from extensive drainage works from Duncan Ross, wetland habitats at Aberdovey Golf Club continue to flourish. Nine tees have been built and drainage to all the tees is now complete. These are already showing building on the progress made over previous years, to complete drainage schemes while protecting existing wetland habitat and encouraging more.

Aberdovey had suffered from increasing course closures since 2005 due to many drainage and water management related issues. However, the approach taken by the golf club and the work completed by Duncan Ross was awarded the STRI Outstanding Environmental Project of the Year in 2021, with benefits still being seen today.

David Tomkinson, Greens Chairman at Aberdovey Golf Club, explains: “Duncan Ross conducted a major clearance of the ditches on the Golf Course in 2018/19, a programme of work consented to by Natural Resources Wales, as the course lies within the DYFI SSSI. The water table was lowered to improve the playability of the course, while barriers were put into the ditches to maintain a water level in dry spells to maintain the wet conditions required by a rare plant, lesser water plantain.

Banks of a number of ditches were widened to allow more light to reach the ditch bases, which, together with the reed clearance, led to more favourable growing conditions for the plantain.

“As a result of the work done and the use of specialist equipment to follow the requirements of NRW, the Golf Club was nominated as one of the four finalists in the STRI Environment awards 2020.

“The drainage conducted at that time led to significantly fewer days when the course was closed after heavy rain. The way in which the project has progressed has, we believe, led to constructive discussion with NRW on other aspects of conservation in the area of land owned by the Club.

“Subsequently, Duncan has been employed on an annual basis to clear reeds and other vegetation from the ditches which impede the flow of water off the course and to complete a phased replacement of blocked or collapsed field drains under the fairways. There has not been any further requirement to excavate spoil from the base of ditches, leaving the roots of the plantain intact and not disturbing the pupae of insects such as dragonflies and damselflies.

“Aberdovey GC has been very impressed with the work carried out by Duncan and his team and looks forward to employing him again.”

The course, which is flanked by Cardigan Bay and a long sandy foreshore incorporating a semi-mobile dune system, is highly valued as a rich source of ecology and biodiversity and is classed as a site of special scientific interest and also serves as a special area of conservation. As such, the club works with the STRI, Natural Resources Wales (NRW), Gwynedd County Council, Snowdonia National Park Authority and the Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Trust.

The ditch system in the centre and northern end of the course supports a population of lesser water plantain, which used to be scattered throughout the country but is now mainly found in coastal regions and the East Anglian fens.

DESIGN : CONSTRUCTION : RENOVATION

GPS Guided Piped Drainage Systems : Pitch Construction

Bulk Earthworks : Mara 5mtr GPS Grader/Leveler

Sand Slitting: GKB Top-Drain : Koro Surfacing

Vertidraining Topdressing : Overseeding : Koro Scarify Fertilising : Weed Control : Landscaping

t 01257 255321

e office@duncanrossltd.co.uk www.duncanrossltd.co.uk

SPECIALIST SPORTSTURF CONTRACTOR

To achieve the water run off objectives while maintaining conservation, the base of the main ditch was increased in depth across half its width, with levelling techniques maintaining a steady fall of 750mm over a 3km length.

Disruption to the fairway was reduced by leaving the old clay pies in place, and putting new pipes in parallel at the new, lower water level. A sluice was installed near the main outfall to hold back at least 50mm of water in the ditch system while allowing the run-off of stormwater.

A requirement from NRW was the excavation of wetland scrapes in low lying areas near the 11th green, which were constructed and provide an additional area for the plantain to colonise.

Aberdovey continues to focus on environmental projects, working closely with Duncan ross and the NRW relating to the management of the site, including monitoring coastal erosion, protecting the wetland areas from seawater ingress, creating further wetland scrapes and sand scrape areas, monitoring the population of sand lizards, management of rank grass areas to improve grazing for sheep and management of areas of degenerate gorse.

Sisgrass invests in Indian cricket for next phase of hybrid pitch revolution

Hybrid cricket pitches have been installed at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) Stadium in Dharamshala, the first in what is expected to be a series of major projects across India in 2024 and beyond.

Completed by international sports pitches specialist SISGrass in partnership with Indian fine turf specialist company Greater Ten, the work represents the start of a drive towards improved playing surface quality and consistency at both amateur and professional levels, opening the nation’s most popular sport up to millions more people.

SISGrass’s investment in India follows a decision by the International Cricket Council to permit the use of hybrid surfaces for T20 and 50-over competition. After widespread success installing hybrids across English cricket grounds, the SIS team chose India as its next region of development. Paul Taylor, a former England international and SIS’s International Cricket Director, says the decision made sense for several reasons.

“India is home to millions of cricket fans, players and professionals who play almost all year round,” says Taylor. “This huge demand

puts pressure on facilities, which can make it difficult for people to access good quality pitches in their local area. Our hybrid system will create far more opportunities for people to participate in the sport, guaranteeing a higher-quality of play at every level of competition.”

The Universal machine used in Dharamshala to install the hybrid surface was first developed by SISGrass in 2017. It injects a small percentage of polymer fibre with the natural turf found inside cricket stadiums. This composition is more resilient to stresses created during play, helping to prolong the life of pitches, guarantee an even bounce and ease pressure on busy groundspeople. Completed

installations are predominantly natural grass, with only 5% of polymer fibre used. This ensures the characteristics of an all-natural pitch are maintained.

Speaking about the installation, Mr. R.P. Singh, Hony. President, HPCA, said, “The HPCA has consistently embraced the latest advances in cricket, and we believe SISGrass’s technology will be game-changing.

“Maintaining top-notch practice pitches is crucial for player development, as traditional surfaces struggle under the demands of rigorous training schedules. SISGrass’s integration of natural grass with synthetic

fibres creates a robust and durable playing surface, ensuring players are prepared for competitive play. We are confident the installation will pave the way for a brighter future for Indian cricket, not just in Himachal Pradesh but across the nation.”

Hybrids have already been sanctioned by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) for T20 and 50-over competitions, and in 2024 they will be used in four-day County Championship matches for the first time. The Universal machine in India will now travel to Ahmedabad and Mumbai, where it will stitch more pitches for practice and match play.

The first machine of its kind, the Universal has already proven effective in the UK, having been used to install SISGrass at almost every major county ground in England. These include Lord’s, The Kia Oval, Edgbaston, Emirates Old Trafford, Trent Bridge, among many others. The machine will remain in India after the first three installations are complete, making it immediately available to other grounds and facilities as projects are approved.

The HPCA has consistently embraced the latest advances in cricket, and we believe SISGrass’s technology will be gamechanging. “

Richard Gould, CEO of ECB, added: “Hybrid pitches have played an important role in enabling some venues to manage an increased amount of cricket during the English summer as the fixture list across men’s and women’s international and domestic cricket has grown.”

The introduction of hybrid pitches represents an important moment for India’s national game, which has championed T20 cricket through the IPL. These shorter formats have been one of the main drivers behind the development of hybrid surfaces, with more intense periods of play making it harder to prepare allnatural surfaces in time for toplevel competition.

“Cricket is often associated with tradition but the installation of SISGrass in India is a milestone of progress,” adds Taylor. “Our hybrid pitches will allow for longer periods of play than is possible with all-natural surfaces, helping to maintain a base level of performance for millions of players across the country. But the technology will also potentially transform grassroots-level cricket, giving juniors the chance to play on the same surfaces found in major stadiums. Our expansion in India is an investment in the future of the game at all levels.”

HPCA has already installed SISAir – another specialist technology business that forms part of the wider SIS Pitches portfolio. SISAir is a sports pitch aeration system that optimises root zone growing conditions, creating stronger and more durable grass. During heavy rainfall, SISAir will also remove excess surface water using a series of pipework installed underneath a playing surface. The technology is used widely across major stadia, including Galatasaray’s Rams Park.

For more information on SISGrass, visit: www.sispitches.com/sportspitches/hybrid/installation/cricket

It’s yellow for The Sky Blues, as INFINICUT® fleet impresses at Coventry City

t’s been an exciting two years for Dale Gregory since he joined Coventry City Football Club as their new Head of Grounds & Facilities. Not only has he overseen the significant expansion of the club’s Sky Blue Lodge Training Ground and Alan Higgs Academy Site, but investment has also resulted in the purchase of first-class equipment to maintain it! Among his new fleet are a trio of INFINICUT® SM34 Rotary mowers and another three FL34 cylinders, helping to deliver year-round presentation and outstanding quality of cut.

Dale leads a team of six, responsible for looking after the surfaces across the two sites. “At the Sky Blue Lodge we have two and a half hybrid pitches that are for the first-team and four natural pitches at the Alan Higgs centre for the academy” he explains. “The construction of the pitches at Sky Blue Lodge is identical to that at the stadium - and we maintain it as such - to give the players the same experience they’re going to get when it comes to match day.” Consistency and familiarity was also what led Dale to the INFINICUT’s, having used these in his previous role at the King Power Stadium.

The quality of cut and presentation, particularly striping, produced by the INFINICUT® range is one of the best I’ve seen

“The quality of cut and presentation, particularly striping, produced by the INFINICUT® range is one of the best I’ve seen.”

With this in mind, Dale opted for a fleet comprised of three SM34 rotary’s and three FL34 cylinder mowers, delivered by Martin Shepherd of George Browns Ltd in February 2023. “Throughout the winter, training is still happening every day so we use the Rotary’s to follow up with a clean-up cut, maintaining the height and removing debris. When we don’t have training, we’ll employ the services of the cylinders to sharpen up the cut and further boost presentation levels.”

He continues, “Not only are we getting the aesthetics we want, the fact they’re also electric was another major reason we opted

for INFINICUT®, as we look to improve our operations on the sustainability front. As well as reducing emissions and vibration levels, they’re quiet, which means we can mow one pitch while players are training on the other.”

The club also took delivery of a pair of SpringRake™ and ThatchMaster™ cassettes from the TMSystem™ to quickly and easily equip into their FL34’s. “Grooming is essential for keeping the plant healthy and doing it with the INFINICUT® means we can keep unnecessary weight off the pitches. These operations will be conducted regularly throughout the spring and autumn and play an important part in our overall maintenance programme.”

www.infinicut.com

Success with Suståne at Watford Football Club

Three formulations of Suståne Natural Fertilizer have been credited with their role in the ongoing success of the maintenance operation at Watford Football Club. Forming the base of the nutritional programme at both the Vicarage Road stadium and the club’s London Colney training ground, a combination of Bolster Granular 4-4-4+3Fe, 1-1-1 Soil ReGen® and Suståne 4-6-4 have delivered consistent results to the satisfaction of the club and grounds team alike!

As one of the worlds most widely-researched organic ranges, Suståne’s tried and tested portfolio for winter sports plays an important role for grow-ins and renovations – providing long lasting soil builders and sources of plant nutrition that specifically encourage rapid root development, superior growth and ongoing plant protection. It’s here that Watford Grounds Manager Scott Tingley has cited the successes of Suståne, with both the Bolster Granular 4-4-4 + Iron and Soil ReGen® playing an important part in post-renovation recovery.

“We’ve been using Suståne products at both of our sites for the last seven seasons. Bolster Granular 4-4-4+3Fe is applied primarily at renovation time, due to the addition of Mycorrhizae.” Derived from biologically stable ingredients and containing both water soluble and slow-release sources of nitrogen, Bolster Granular provides a formulation of organic nutrients, beneficial microbiology, plant biostimulants and a powerful blend of

Throughout the playing season, we switch to Suståne 4-6-4 organic slow release, to replenish our sand dominant constructions with a rich supply of humus and other essential nutrients.

mycorrhizae to promote greater root access to soil nutrients and water. The addition of 3% chelated iron enhances colour and rapid root development, while seaweed extract, humic acid and compostbased microorganisms deliver plant health and strength for all turf grass situations.

Alongside Bolster Granular 4-44+3Fe, Scott applies Suståne’s Soil ReGen following full or partial renovations - a soil conditioner that reduces compaction, increases

water and air infiltration rates while also improving the nutrient and water holding capacity. “This helps us to incorporate lots of valuable nutrients such as Zeolite, Biochar, Mycorrhizae and Humates at a critical time, when the plant is wanting to root and develop.”

“Throughout the playing season, we switch to Suståne 4-6-4 organic slow release, to replenish our sand dominant constructions with a rich supply of humus and other essential nutrients. We’ve found this to contribute to increased rooting and a strong, healthy plant more resilient to disease and turf pathogens.”

The results at both sites speak for themselves – seeing the Watford team regularly recognised for outstanding pitch quality. Scott concludes, “We put a large part of our success as a grounds team down to the benefit of using Suståne products.”

www.sustane.com

J Premier Pitch makes impressive debut at Dartford Football Club

Ticking the boxes for wear tolerance and fast germination, J Premier Pitch from Johnsons Sports Seed has impressed during its debut season at Dartford Football Club. Under the supervision of Head Groundsman Jay Berkhauer and the team at Jordans Sportsground Solutions, J Premier Pitch was chosen due to a tight six-week renovation window, delivering a quality surface for the first game of season and demonstrating great resilience, despite challenging conditions, ever since.

Jay has been in the industry for 20 years, working on all manner of sports surfaces from Premier League clubs to grassroots facilities, schools, cricket clubs and everything in-between! For the last seven years he’s been an operative for contractors Jordans Sportsground Solutions and has been based at

Dartford FC, of the National League South, for five seasons. “This pitch gets a lot of use!” he exclaims. “We’ve got four teams that play here so when it comes to renovating and preparing the pitch we know we need seed that can handle high levels of stress and wear, and meets the budget and resources we have available.”

“We’d heard about the quick establishment and germination of Johnsons, and with only five and a half weeks between our renovation and the first game, this was going to be critical. We sowed J Premier Pitch end of May 2023, saw the first sprouts of germination within seven days and by the first game of the season we were as good as gold!”

J Premier Pitch has delivered proven performance on some of the greatest sporting stages globally. The new 2024 formulation blends five top-rated

www.johnsonssportsseed.co.uk

TurfKeeper

Turf Tank unveils brand new software update for line-marking robots

ew Automated Features

Reduce Downtime and Boost Efficiency for Sports Field Managers

Turf Tank, a leading manufacturer of line-marking robots for sports fields, has announced the rollout of its highly anticipated April 2024 software update. This comprehensive release introduces a range of innovative capabilities designed to streamline operations and make the process even smoother for groundskeepers, coaches, athletic directors, and facility managers.

Turf Tank is committed to empowering customers with technology advancements that will make their jobs easier and more efficient. The April 2024 software update represents just that, updating the line marking robots with a set of new features that aims to reduce downtime, keeps users informed on the job status and ensures superior pitch quality.

Key features and updates in the April 2024 update include:

Empty Paint Detection: Turf Tank Lite & Two robots can now detect when paint levels are running low, pause operations, and notify operators to refill, minimising time-wasting and leaving grounds managers to tend to other tasks, while the robot is painting.

Recovery Mode: If the signal is unexpectedly disrupted, the robots will automatically reposition themselves to regain

connectivity, enabling job resumption without requiring human intervention.

Route Manager: Managers can now customise the order and direction in which pitches and elements are marked, optimising efficiency and ensuring a more custom-tailored experience.

Job Status Notifications: Realtime updates on job progress are delivered directly to managers’

tablets, enabling remote monitoring and maximising operational oversight.

The Empty Paint Detection feature alone has the potential to save grounds crew hours of downtime each week. Turf Tank’s commitment to constantly evolve and improve is based on user and customer feedback.

The April 2024 software update also includes enhancements for

alex@turftank co uk

improved logo detailing, nozzle selection for accurate paint consumption tracking, and the ability to resume failed jobs from the last stopped point.

UK-based sports organisations interested in learning more about Turf Tank’s line-marking robots and the transformative April 2024

software update can request a demo or quote by visiting www. turftank.com/uk or contacting the company’s UK sales team.

- Southern UK : Alex Robinson, alex@turftank.co.uk, 07311-370-250

- Northern UK: Lewis Weldon,

lewis@turftank.co.uk, 07533-969-557

- Scotland, Northern Ireland and Ireland: Alan Donaldson, alan@turftank.co.uk, 07426-436-090

https://youtu.be/pow6dePtI_Q https://turftank.com/en/

A multi-tool solution for outdoor maintainance

Groundskeepers are wellacquainted with the array of challenges that come with maintaining outdoor spaces. Whether it’s landscaping, gardening or clearing land, these tasks can be quite diverse and demandingparticularly given the ever-changing weather conditions, different terrains and seasonal variations experienced by professionals across the country. Among these challenges, groundskeepers often find themselves juggling numerous tools, each suited to a specific task which can lead to inefficiencies, wasted time and unnecessary strain on their resources.

Understanding these daily challenges, Milwaukee Tool has developed a

revolutionary outdoor maintenance solution to meet the demands of groundskeeping professionals. Indeed, Milwaukee Tool’s M18 FUEL OUTDOOR POWER HEAD WITH QUIK-LOK (M18 FOPH-0), when paired with a variety of attachments, allows groundskeepers to switch between various tools for different tasks using a single powerhead, helping to prevent time wastage and inefficiencies when completing daily tasks.

A standout feature of this system lies in its revolutionary rapid attachment

and detachment mechanism, specifically designed to facilitate seamless transitions between tasks with unparalleled ease. At the heart of this innovation is the QUIK-LOK tool attachment, boasting a cuttingedge design that ensures a secure connection to the M18 power head, offering steady and reliable support across a variety of jobs.

By adopting the system, groundskeepers can enhance efficiency, reduce resource strain, and tackle tasks effectively, regardless of complexity. The M18 FUEL OUTDOOR

POWER HEAD WITH QUIK-LOK offers a variety of attachments, including a chainsaw, edger and hedge trimmer, providing a multi-tool solution which eliminates the need for multiple specialised equipment.

Whether groundskeepers are switching from trimming to edging or pruning to cultivating, they can trust the M18 FUEL OUTDOOR POWER HEAD WITH QUIK-LOK, which offers groundskeepers unparalleled reliability and efficiency, while seamlessly transitioning between tasks. Its innovative QUIK-LOK feature allows users to quickly change the attachment, dramatically reducing downtime and enabling more work to be completed swiftly without compromising precision or performance.

By prioritising productivity in dynamic outdoor environments, the QUIK-LOK attachment system offers a lightning-fast response time of under one second, directly translating to improved workflow and productivity for groundskeepers. The MILWAUKEE QUIK-LOK outdoor tool range gives groundskeepers the power to handle diverse maintenance needs effortlessly, transforming landscaping and gardening practices.

The POWERSTATE brushless motor is designed to elevate performance, delivering heightened efficiency,

For groundskeepers who spend long periods of time operating tools, the M18 FUEL OUTDOOR POWER HEAD WITH QUIK-LOK is a game-changer.

longevity, and unmatched power even in the most challenging conditions. Groundskeepers can now confidently approach their tasks, equipped with tools built to endure the rigorous demands of outdoor maintenance. Furthermore, incorporating advanced REDLINK PLUS technology further optimises performance, offering digital overload protection for both the tool and battery, ensuring durability while reducing maintenance requirements.

In wide-open spaces, traditional electric tools with cables usually limit the movement of groundskeepers, hindering their ability to work efficiently; however, Milwaukee Tool’s M18 battery system, featuring advanced M18 FUEL technology, offers professionals greater freedom and convenience. This unified battery platform allows for easy swapping among various tools, minimising concerns about power shortages or downtime for battery changes. As a result, groundskeepers can tackle

larger tasks uninterrupted, boosting their productivity.

For groundskeepers who spend long periods of time operating tools, the M18 FUEL OUTDOOR POWER HEAD WITH QUIK-LOK is a gamechanger. The system’s adjustable auxiliary handle, strap and carrying ring enhance comfort and control, providing a personalised and ergonomic experience. These design elements empower users to tailor their equipment for maximum comfort; with such ergonomic features smoothly incorporated into the M18 FUEL OUTDOOR POWER HEAD system, groundskeepers can work more efficiently and maintain optimal comfort throughout the day.

From prioritising user comfort to emphasising the importance of an eco-conscious work environment, Milwaukee Tool is committed to fostering a positive work environment for groundskeepers, demonstrated by the innovative design of the M18 FUEL OUTDOOR POWER HEAD. Unlike traditional petrol-powered alternatives, this electric tool operates with significantly lower vibration, noise and CO2 emissions, offering groundskeepers a user experience that is both pleasant and more environmentally responsible than their petrol counterparts. By prioritising these reductions, Milwaukee Tool ensures that every task becomes a smoother, quieter and more enjoyable experience for the user. This conscious design choice directly results in diminished environmental impact, contributing to cleaner air and a healthier workplace.

To revolutionise your outdoor maintenance workflow with the M18 FUEL OUTDOOR POWER HEAD with QUIK-LOK range, click here to learn more, or to discover Milwaukee Tool’s full range of outdoor power equipment and battery technology today, visit https://uk.milwaukeetool. eu/.

FSI Stump Cutters UK Ltd make their Arb Show debut on Stand E10/E11

hile 2024 won’t be the first time the renowned FSI range of stump grinders will be showcased at Westonbirt Arboretum, this year’s Arb Show will be the company’s debut under the banner of FSI Stump Cutters UK Ltd. New name, same industry-leading portfolio of engine, hydraulic and PTOpowered stump grinders, an expert team and your chance to win a 3-month free hire of an FSI B21 - all to be found on stand E10/ E11 this May.

Following the formation of the new strategic subsidiary at the end of 2023, it’s been a busy few months for the FSI UK team, establishing a nationwide network of dealer partners to provide expert advice, sales and support across the FSI range. The Arb Show 2024 will bring together a number of these new distribution partners alongside a wide selection of machines.

As the world’s only dedicated stump grinder manufacturer, FSI provides the solution for stumps of all shapes and sizes, in all situations and on all types of terrain. The FSI B31 promises to be one of many stand highlights. At just 74cm, this narrow-access tracked stump grinder is ideal for sites with restricted access, promising powerful performance with enhanced manoeuvrability, stability and a low centre of gravity. The hydraulic drive of the cutting head all-but eliminates daily maintenance, reducing

As the world’s only dedicated stump grinder manufacturer, FSI provides the solution for stumps of all shapes and sizes, in all situations and on all types of terrain.

operating costs and resulting in less time in the workshop and more in the field.

Another popular model with professional arborists is the FSI B21. This easy-to-operate

pedestrian unit features a 14hp engine and pivoting cutter arm, delivering a 90cm sweep and cutting depth down to 25cm below ground.

Visitors to stand E10/E11 will also have the opportunity to enter an exclusive Arb Show competition for the chance to win a free 3-month hire of an FSI B21 stump grinder! Full details, terms & conditions can be found by speaking to the FSI UK technical team on hand across the two days.

www.fsi-stumpcutters.com

Groundsman turf multi cutters

Groundsman Industries Ltd

Since 1990, Groundsman Industries have been developing their unique range of grass maintenance machines and accessories for maximum performance and durability. The company specialises in Turf Aerators, Core Collectors and Turf /Sod Cutters.

Groundsman High Performance Sod Cutters

Groundsman Two and Four-wheel Drive Turf Sod Cutters deliver effortless cutting with very low operator Hand Arm Vibration levels. Large diameter ground-drive wheels provide excellent traction in all conditions. The twin axle four wheel drive models with rear blade position enable them to cut extremely accurate fine turf even on rolling terrane as well as being very capability in the rough. These versatile machines can be fitted with Trench, Mole and De-compaction Blades cutting to 15cm deep as well as Sod Blades 30cm to 60cm wide to cut 1cm to 7.5cm thick sod. Serrated Sod Blades can cut fibre reinforced grass, scrub or heather, Revetting Blades cut two and three strips of turf in one pass for sod walling or bunker building. A Guillotine attachment can be fitted on the TMC48 model to measure and chop the sod into lengths for turf nurseries and sod farms.

Visit www.groundsmanindustries.com

Introducing the Eco Clipper Electric Mowing Systems

Eco Clipper redefines field maintenance with its large area mowers, offering cost-efficient solutions and professional finishes. Originally developed to replace cylinder mowers, the system prioritizes cutting performance without the high maintenance and sensitivity to mowing conditions.

Featuring smooth cutting decks and fast-spinning blades, it ensures quality cuts and even clipping distribution. Electrically driven blades contribute to its economic and quiet operation, while large wheels and a smart linking system enable precise contour following and high speeds.

Users benefit from increased

productivity, reduced maintenance, and the ability to mow in challenging conditions. Models like the EC-FM4 Sport and EC-FM343 cater to municipalities and sports field managers, providing excellent visibility and comfort for various tractor sizes.

The EC-FM4 Sport boasts four independent decks and a width of 4.11m, while the EC-FM343 offers a three-part design cutting 3.43m wide, both folding for transport convenience. These mowers meet diverse needs, from small agricultural tractors to park maintenance vehicles, enhancing efficiency across fields and parks alike.

www.ecoclipper.com

Windstorm scores highly at North Hants Golf Club

At Saltex 2023, on the STM Co Ltd stand, Sam Evans, the Course Manager at the prestigious North Hants Golf Club, and his Grounds team took particular interest in the SCAG Windstorm debris blower.

This is a stand-on zero-turn machine with a 37HP motor, 10mph ground speed and a colossal output of 600cfm.

They could see immediate advantages over their present system of a leaf blower unit towed behind a utility vehicle, a system that means that two engines are required, one for the UV and the other for the blower. The operator also struggles with restricted rearward view because of the blower size. There is also the general safety aspect with the operator needing to look behind regularly to check blower performance and suitable clearance.

The next step was to have an on-site demonstration; this was arranged with David Gray of the STM Co area dealer Lister Wilder.

The Windstorm performance on that demo went beyond expectations; clearly an immediate saving was there being only one motor in use, but the visibility and zero-turn manoeuvrability were real sellers once experienced by the operators on their regular grounds. Not only that but there was an additional benefit; the Windstorm has so much power it can cope with clearing leaves within heather areas, which has been very time consuming in the past. Sam’s expression was “that stuff can be like Velcro”.

The general reaction and enthusiasm were such that Sam was easily able to

persuade his General Manager, who was equally impressed with the demo, that this was money well spent.

So now the machine has completed its first winter debris season – but it doesn’t end there because routine mowing can leave grass cuttings on the surfaces. The North Hants greenkeeping team have always cleared this away to keep the fairways pristine, and now, with the

“

They could see immediate advantages over their present system of a leaf blower unit towed behind a utility vehicle, a system that means that two engines are required, one for the UV and the other for the blower.

Windstorm, they can do it in two-thirds the time it took them before.

That, with general requirements for clearing wind and storm debris, plus the fact it does its job so well has made the Windstorm a firm favourite with Sam and his team at North Hants.

The machines are available through the STM dealership network. To find your nearest dealer ring 01789 488450, email info@st-mach.com or look at our website www.st-mach.com

Trilo M3 cleans up at Ombersley Golf Club!

Over the 35 years that Andrew Halfpenny has been Course Manager at Ombersley Golf Club, things have changed dramatically – including the site itself, where the 18 hole parkland course has matured, creating an ever-increasing problem with leaf-fall. With mulching no longer providing a viable solution, the team took delivery of a Trilo M3 vacuum collector in October 2023, which has proved more than capable of keeping the course clean and tidy over a busy autumn and winter season.

Andrew has clocked up an impressive 47 years with the company, and currently leads the maintenance of the Worcestershire course supported by a team of five. “Leaves weren’t really too much of a problem traditionally, but as the course has matured, mulching them

with a mower became unfeasible time-wise and playability-wise for the golfers” he explains. “We’ve established a fantastic relationship over the years with Tallis Amos Group so approached them to see what they could recommend to collect the leaves. They brought us the Trilo M3, we gave it a thorough test and we bought it – simple as that!”

The M3 Multipurpose from Trilo is capable of a range of operations including scarification, cut and collection and debris clearance depending on the attachment equipped. The 1.5m working width and 3m3 hopper capacity makes it compact yet capable of year-round maintenance tasks in a variety of golf and sports turf applications.

“It was delivered in October and was out on a weekly basis. It coped brilliantly with both the

volume of leaves we had and the very wet ground. The wanderhose is a brilliant feature, great for manoeuvring around hedgerows and clearing leaves and other litter around perimeter and fence lines. We used the vacuum in conjunction with our blower, quickly removing everything we wanted to and leaving a really clean finish.” Andrew continues, “The players noticed the difference and loved it!”

While the M3 was predominately purchased for leaf clearance Andrew foresees that, with the climatic changes he has observed during his tenure, it will find other uses. “We see more rain, and notably more wind, which blows litter and tree-debris around the course. The M3 is our new go-to machine for keeping the course tidy.”

Campey Successfully Launch Pitch Renovation Tour UK 2024 at West Ham

Campey Turf Care Systems successfully launched the Pitch Renovation Tour UK 2024 at West Ham’s Rush Green Training Ground with practical demonstrations at the forefront of the attendee experience.

Education plays a key role at Campey and has seen significant investment through various tours, most recently across eight countries and 14 European venues. Since 2010, Campey has carried out close to 100 renovations, but with technology constantly moving forward and new people coming into the industry, now was the right time to bring the Tour back to the UK.

During the live renovation, a host of Campey machines were in action, including the Koro® FIELDTOPMAKER® with Universe® Rotor, Campey™ Speedresser 18H, Dakota Turf Tender, Recycling Dresser and UniRake.

For Paul Ashcroft, Head of Horticulture and Playing Surface Operations at Arsenal Football Club, seeing the machines in action is a valuable experience. “It’s great value for me to see the latest renovation equipment,” he said. The number of machines here and the variety are very impressive, and by seeing them in person and watching them

work, you can clearly see the level of manufacturing that’s invested into each piece of equipment.”

Campey Product Specialist

Ben Taylor led an informative walkthrough of each machine before attendees saw them in action and were invited to experience them for themselves. Combining specialist knowledge with demonstrations is key to helping people get the best from the machinery, especially precision equipment like the Universe® Rotor.

The patented fraise mower was developed using feedback from groundsmen at events like the Pitch Renovation Tour UK and has led to an industry defining rotor that

removes organic debris from semisynthetic surfaces with extreme accuracy from 15% to 100%.

In addition to the renovation machinery, Campey also had practical demonstrations of the Air 2G2 336, Dakota 310 and Vredo Turf Buddy. Representatives from Mansfield Sand, Dennis were also in attendance to bring a full picture of sports turf and facility maintenance.

As part of the educational programme, West Ham Head Groundsman and host Dougie Robertson was on hand to provide a greater insight into the Premier League club’s maintenance regime, whilst Jim Buttar, Grounds and Technical Operations Lead at the

Campey Product Specialist

Ben Taylor led an informative walkthrough of each machine before attendees saw them in action and were invited to experience them for themselves. “

RFU, highlighted the work done at one of England’s most prestigious sporting venues presenting on Twickenham’s post-decade renovation programme.

Speaking about the day’s importance, Jim said: “At Twickenham, our renovation is slightly different, so I was asked to

give an insight into what we do, and it was interesting to hear people’s thoughts on that.

“Ultimately days like today make it much easier to see the machines in operation. It’s nice to watch videos and read information on a website but there’s no substitute for seeing them working and getting good insights on how best to operate them,

which I think is always valuable.”

This insight, combined with the opportunity to network with other industry professionals from different sports, typifies the importance of in-person educational events and is why Campey continues to bring opportunities to people across the UK and Europe.

www.campeyturfcare.com

Wiedenmann UK dealers

cassettes for STrac 700 system

he Wiedenmann Maredo STrac 700 system continues to tackle even more maintenance tasks.

Launched in 2021 with four cassettes - scarifying, aeration, seeding and fraise mowing – in the last three years it has doubled its range of turf related processes to eight.

Brought to you via your local Wiedenmann UK dealer, the STrac 700 has easy controls on its guiding handle and a set of inter-changeable heads. A very short turning radius means the rear wheels can adopt a variety of operating positions, while the tools connect effortlessly, cassette style. Working width is a very respectable 65 cm.

The four added cassette heads are for ‘clean cut sand injection’, ‘high speed coring’, ‘spike seeding’ and “flex sod cutting’ all necessary tasks depending on the time of year and the situation.

Light, fast and versatile, even on difficult undulations, there is scope to provide uniformity of care and presentation across a whole site. Customers who have purchased the system are using it on all turf surfaces from bowling greens to full size pitches and for challenging areas like the collars of a golf course, or, where a tractor is too heavy.

www.maredo-bv.com X @GroundProUK @WiedenmannUK @MaredoBV

Responsible fertiliser use for a greener future

In the realm of modern groundskeeping, the pursuit of vibrant, healthy landscapes intertwines with the responsibility to care for our environment. As we approach the Autumn/Winter season, we, at GreenBest Limited, recognise the imperative role that fertilisers play in achieving both quality sports turf landscapes and sustainable practices.

Conscious choices

At the heart of responsible fertiliser application lies a commitment to precision. We champion the notion of not using more than necessary. Over-application can lead to nutrient runoff, pollution of water bodies, volatilisation of chemicals into the atmosphere and a compromised ecosystem. Our Velvit fertilisers, meticulously crafted to deliver precise nutrient doses, exemplify our dedication to promoting efficient usage. By adhering to the principle of ‘less is more’, we can optimise plant growth while safeguarding the environment.

Embracing nature’s wisdom

Organic and controlled-release fertilisers stand as champions of sustainability. Our Organo-mineral fertilisers, including the Onyx, YUCCA, Aminaid and Velsea ranges, epitomise this approach. These formulations harmonise the benefits of organic matter with carefully balanced mineral nutrients. By releasing nutrients gradually, these fertilisers foster sustained growth, reduce leaching, and fortify soil structure. The result is a landscape that thrives in symmetry with nature.

Bespoke fertiliser formulation

Responsible fertiliser use is a commitment. Through our Bespoke Fertilisers service we can bring together custom manufacturing, advanced ingredients, own-brand packaging, and worldwide shipping. Tailoring your fertilisers to match your soil reserves and the needs of your turf will avoid an excess of any one component, thus reducing cost and environmental

harm. Our technical advice will support you in creating your unique products, adopting precisiondriven application methods, and embracing organic and controlledrelease fertilisers.

Empowerment through education

As we navigate the path towards responsible fertiliser use, knowledge is power. The GreenBest Academy is becoming our hub of education, equipping professionals, and enthusiasts with the tools to make informed choices. Our Academy hosts courses and free webinars presented by our FACTS-qualified sales team. We’re giving consumers an insight into fertiliser application techniques, new products, and seasonal updates. By empowering ourselves with knowledge, we pave the way for a greener and more vibrant future.

Get in contact with the sales team for more information about our organo-mineral range of fertilisers.

sales@greenbest.co.uk

www.greenbest.co.uk +44(0)1963 364788

Raymo – remote control electric mower

If you need to maintain very steep slopes, grassed banks around lakes or waterways or just difficult to access areas, the Raymo electric remote-control mower is the machine of choice. It has been designed with a low overall height of only 51 cm which together with a low centre of gravity, 4WD, and a zero-turn steering system allows the Raymo to tackle steep slopes, grassed banks and low obstacles with ease.

The operator controls the Raymo via an industrial-grade remote control so benefiting from zero emissions, low-noise and no vibrations. Being able to stand away from the mower and the ground being cut, the operator is kept away from dangerous hazards such as slopes, deep water etc.

Three rotary decks, 42”, 52” and 46” Craft are available for the Raymo depending upon the type of grass to be cut and maintained. The 48 Craft deck is a heavy-duty deck for areas that are cut only once a year. Two sickle-blade mowers, either single or dual are ideal for maintaining wildflower or biodiversity areas.

A new option just launched is the R14 SFINX swing arm post mower which attaches to the side of the Raymo and allows posts, trees and similar obstacles to cut around.

In open areas it increases the cutting width of the Raymo, but will then retract automatically when it encounters a post or tree etc. The R14 SFINX may be fitted to the left or right or both sides of the Raymo.

The Raymo remote control electric mower cuts faster than a strimmer and will solve your health and safety problems when cutting slopes, banks and difficult to access areas.

For a demonstration please contact www.raymoelectric.co.uk

“

The operator controls the Raymo via an industrialgrade remote control so benefiting from zero emissions, low-noise and no vibrations.

MAKES AERATING EFFORTLESS

The IQ dual-clutch F24/R24 gear box was chosen as it makes manoeuvring the tractor around the course whilst operating the equipment so easy. Another feature we really like is the Auto PTO function or the Headland Management System, it is brilliant for when we get to the end of the run with the aerator, we can lift the implement up, the PTO automatically cuts out, we can turn around then lower again and PTO restarts by itself. Brilliant for safety and avoiding damage or excess wear and tear on the implements themselves.”

Daniel Spencer, Letchworth Golf Club

Contact your Local Dealer to book a demonstration on your site today!

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