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£5.50 | MAY 2019
GREENKEEPING
ON FOREIGN
Featured Inside
SHORES
What can we learn
from BIGGA members
who have taken
their talents
abroad?
How did they
make it happen?
John Deere TPC Sawgrass Volunteer Programme | Steve Chappell
The BIGGA Irrigation Survey | Ireland Sports Turf Institute
It’s about obsessing over the little things, the details no one
else sees. It’s never tolerating anything less than the best.
Perfection is a mindset. And that’s worth being proud of.
BIGGA Patron
Sir Michael Bonallack, OBE
BIGGA President
Chris Sheehan
Welcome
Freephone 0800 085 25 22 B IGGA Chairman
Scott Reeves
IGGA Vice President
B
Collin Webber
BIGGA Board Members
Stuart Taylor, Anthony McGeough, Rob Welford,
Tom Smith, Jaime Acton, George Barr, Chris Sealey
BIGGA Chief Executive Officer
Jim Croxton | jim.croxton@bigga.co.uk
Head of Finance and Operations
Steve Wragg | steve@bigga.co.uk
Head of Membership Services
Tracey Maddison | traceymaddison@bigga.co.uk
OFFICIAL
GOLF COURSE Contact Us
EQUIPMENT BIGGA House, Aldwark, Alne, York, YO61 1UF
SUPPLIER info@bigga.co.uk | www.bigga.org.uk Darren Skinner putting on plenty of sunscreen We’re helping to spread the message that wearing sunblock and other sun
Tel – 01347 833 800 at TPC Sawgrass safety practices are vital to protect your health
The official monthly magazine of the
British and International Golf Greenkeepers
Association Limited. as we explore within this magazine. But flexibility is
key to successful greenkeeping and never has that
Welcome
BY A PP O I N T M E NT TO
HE R M A JE S T Y T HE QUEEN
SUPPLIE R S OF AGRICULT UR A L , GROUNDSC A RE
been more tested than through our changing climate.
Thank you to everyone who took part as the results
A ND HOR T ICULT UR A L EQUIPMENT
JOHN DEERE LT D NOT T INGH A M
Editorial will help shape our strategy going forwards.
Editor
You can find the initial findings of the survey
Karl Hansell within the pages of this magazine.
Tel – 01347 833 829
karl@bigga.co.uk For those out on the course this summer, whether
a @karlhansell you are playing or working, I would urge you to
consider your own skin safety. Here at BIGGA we work
Production
alongside a number of charities to promote effective
Design & Artwork Production
Libbie Waddleton skincare practices among our members.
Chief Executive Jim Croxton
libbie@bigga.co.uk
Tel – 01347 833 817
In 2018 it was discovered that just one in 10
Spring came and went with very greenkeepers had received any training on ways of
Advertising little rain, quite a lot of sunshine being sun safe when out on the course, be that by
Business and no small amount of worry using sunscreen, sunglasses or protective clothing.
Development Manager
from the nation’s greenkeepers, And yet instances of melanoma, the most serious
Lauren Frazer
Tel – 01347 833 832 fearful of what another extended form of skin cancer, are doubling in the UK every
lauren@bigga.co.uk
drought would do to their courses. 10 to 15 years, so this is something we have to take
a @Lauren_BIGGA
This month we have put seriously. Back in February we joined a campaign
Printing
together a body of work that being led by Melanoma UK, which officially launched
Warners Midlands Plc, The Maltings, Manor Lane,
Bourne, Lincolnshire PE10 9PH looks backwards to last summer’s during the first week in May. You can find more details
Tel – 01778 391 000
drought with the hope that it will about Slip! Slap! Swing! in the Industry News section
Contents may not be reprinted or otherwise better inform the decision makers of this magazine.
reproduced without written permission. Return
postage must accompany all materials submitted
at your club moving forwards. We also work alongside a similar charity, named
if return is requested. No responsibility can be We sent out a survey via Sckin, for the same purpose. You may have seen their
assumed for unsolicited materials. The right is
reserved to edit submissions before publication. email to every course manager representatives on the BIGGA stand at BTME this
Although every care will be taken, no
and head greenkeeper in the year, where they demonstrated the damage that has
responsibility is accepted for loss of manuscripts, association relating to irrigation. already been caused to the skin of attendees. Within
photographs or artwork. Opinions expressed
are not necessarily those of the Association, Our intention was to get a clear the pages of this magazine you can also find a handy
and no responsibility is accepted for such perspective of the state of golf guide from the charity that offers advice on how to
TS60220.1ENG_GB_FPH_LET1_PGA_RW
content, advertising or product information that
August appear. Circulation is by subscription. course irrigation in the UK and spot the first signs of skin cancer.
Subscription rate: UK £50 per year, Europe and
Eire £65, Rest of the World £95. The magazine is
I’m pleased that we received a With the highest mortality rates from melanoma
also distributed to BIGGA members, golf clubs, healthy response. being from older men who spend a lot of time
local authorities, the turf industry, libraries and
central government. There are two things critical outdoors, you can see why this is a situation that
for the playing of the sport: water we take very seriously here at BIGGA. It is never too
and greenkeepers. Securing the early to start and just like wearing correct PPE, good
future of both is vital. BIGGA skin safety practices can literally be a case of life and
ISSN: 0961– 6977
members have led the way by death. With the summer on the way, and I can’t stress
© 2019 British and International Golf
Greenkeepers Association Limited taking greenkeeping to the world, this enough, look after yourself out there.
a@BIGGALtd May 2019 3
It’s about obsessing over the little things, the details no one
else sees. It’s never tolerating anything less than the best.
Perfection is a mindset. And that’s worth being proud of.
BIGGA Patron
Sir Michael Bonallack, OBE
BIGGA President
Chris Sheehan
Welcome
Freephone 0800 085 25 22 B IGGA Chairman
Scott Reeves
IGGA Vice President
B
Collin Webber
BIGGA Board Members
Stuart Taylor, Anthony McGeough, Rob Welford,
Tom Smith, Jaime Acton, George Barr, Chris Sealey
BIGGA Chief Executive Officer
Jim Croxton | jim.croxton@bigga.co.uk
Head of Finance and Operations
Steve Wragg | steve@bigga.co.uk
Head of Membership Services
Tracey Maddison | traceymaddison@bigga.co.uk
OFFICIAL
GOLF COURSE Contact Us
EQUIPMENT BIGGA House, Aldwark, Alne, York, YO61 1UF
SUPPLIER info@bigga.co.uk | www.bigga.org.uk Darren Skinner putting on plenty of sunscreen We’re helping to spread the message that wearing sunblock and other sun
Tel – 01347 833 800 at TPC Sawgrass safety practices are vital to protect your health
The official monthly magazine of the
British and International Golf Greenkeepers
Association Limited. as we explore within this magazine. But flexibility is
key to successful greenkeeping and never has that
Welcome
BY A PP O I N T M E NT TO
HE R M A JE S T Y T HE QUEEN
SUPPLIE R S OF AGRICULT UR A L , GROUNDSC A RE
been more tested than through our changing climate.
Thank you to everyone who took part as the results
A ND HOR T ICULT UR A L EQUIPMENT
JOHN DEERE LT D NOT T INGH A M
Editorial will help shape our strategy going forwards.
Editor
You can find the initial findings of the survey
Karl Hansell within the pages of this magazine.
Tel – 01347 833 829
karl@bigga.co.uk For those out on the course this summer, whether
a @karlhansell you are playing or working, I would urge you to
consider your own skin safety. Here at BIGGA we work
Production
alongside a number of charities to promote effective
Design & Artwork Production
Libbie Waddleton skincare practices among our members.
Chief Executive Jim Croxton
libbie@bigga.co.uk
Tel – 01347 833 817
In 2018 it was discovered that just one in 10
Spring came and went with very greenkeepers had received any training on ways of
Advertising little rain, quite a lot of sunshine being sun safe when out on the course, be that by
Business and no small amount of worry using sunscreen, sunglasses or protective clothing.
Development Manager
from the nation’s greenkeepers, And yet instances of melanoma, the most serious
Lauren Frazer
Tel – 01347 833 832 fearful of what another extended form of skin cancer, are doubling in the UK every
lauren@bigga.co.uk
drought would do to their courses. 10 to 15 years, so this is something we have to take
a @Lauren_BIGGA
This month we have put seriously. Back in February we joined a campaign
Printing
together a body of work that being led by Melanoma UK, which officially launched
Warners Midlands Plc, The Maltings, Manor Lane,
Bourne, Lincolnshire PE10 9PH looks backwards to last summer’s during the first week in May. You can find more details
Tel – 01778 391 000
drought with the hope that it will about Slip! Slap! Swing! in the Industry News section
Contents may not be reprinted or otherwise better inform the decision makers of this magazine.
reproduced without written permission. Return
postage must accompany all materials submitted
at your club moving forwards. We also work alongside a similar charity, named
if return is requested. No responsibility can be We sent out a survey via Sckin, for the same purpose. You may have seen their
assumed for unsolicited materials. The right is
reserved to edit submissions before publication. email to every course manager representatives on the BIGGA stand at BTME this
Although every care will be taken, no
and head greenkeeper in the year, where they demonstrated the damage that has
responsibility is accepted for loss of manuscripts, association relating to irrigation. already been caused to the skin of attendees. Within
photographs or artwork. Opinions expressed
are not necessarily those of the Association, Our intention was to get a clear the pages of this magazine you can also find a handy
and no responsibility is accepted for such perspective of the state of golf guide from the charity that offers advice on how to
TS60220.1ENG_GB_FPH_LET1_PGA_RW
content, advertising or product information that
August appear. Circulation is by subscription. course irrigation in the UK and spot the first signs of skin cancer.
Subscription rate: UK £50 per year, Europe and
Eire £65, Rest of the World £95. The magazine is
I’m pleased that we received a With the highest mortality rates from melanoma
also distributed to BIGGA members, golf clubs, healthy response. being from older men who spend a lot of time
local authorities, the turf industry, libraries and
central government. There are two things critical outdoors, you can see why this is a situation that
for the playing of the sport: water we take very seriously here at BIGGA. It is never too
and greenkeepers. Securing the early to start and just like wearing correct PPE, good
future of both is vital. BIGGA skin safety practices can literally be a case of life and
ISSN: 0961– 6977
members have led the way by death. With the summer on the way, and I can’t stress
© 2019 British and International Golf
Greenkeepers Association Limited taking greenkeeping to the world, this enough, look after yourself out there.
a@BIGGALtd May 2019 3
From In this
Featured this month
24 Toro Young Student
Greenkeeper of the Year
the
Issue
Danny Patten discusses what
happened after he won the
prestigious award
26 On trial in the Emerald Isle
Editor
Regulars ICL invited BIGGA members
to visit turf trials at the Ireland
An overview of this month’s Sports Turf Institute
edition of Greenkeeper
3 International, with your
28
Welcome
editor, Karl Hansell Where do I begin with TPC
Our contributors Sawgrass?
The John Deere TPC Sawgrass
Liquid questions
volunteers reflect on their time
6 Newsdesk at The Players Championship
24 Danny Patten
Water isn’t cheap and as greenkeepers you is to cope well with periods of extended dry
Danny began greenkeeping aged 17.
Having played golf at Elite Sports College
34 Heading off to new horizons
What is it like working in
12 Across the Board know that more than anyone. weather. in Liverpool, he decided to pursue
a different country? Is it
achievable for everybody?
Whether it be due to processing or May I take this opportunity to thank greenkeeping as a career. Just three years What do you need to know?
transportation, a sustainable water supply everyone who participated in the survey. later and he won the Toro Young Student
Contents
Contents
Jordan Fairweather answers all
isn’t as easy as just turning on a tap and last Your responses were well‑thought out and Greenkeeper of the Year Award in 2018. our questions
14 year’s drought brought that into sharper will go a long way to making this process a This month Danny reflects on everything
38
Ecology
focus than ever before. success. Such collaborative efforts are vital that’s happened since. Where on Earth is Steve
With the increasing demand for water if BIGGA is to achieve its strategic aims of Chappell?
in the broader public, golf courses are supporting greenkeepers everywhere. The former Gleneagles head
toe‑ing a fine line. There’s a potential public Elsewhere in the magazine and this 26 Phil Collinson man surprised everyone when
16 Industry News relations disaster awaiting anyone who
sprays large amounts of water on to a course
month I owe a huge debt of thanks to Jordan
Fairweather, the widely‑travelled BIGGA
Phil has 16 years’ experience working in he moved to Eastern Europe
the sportsturf industry and is the north
at a time when a hosepipe ban is in place.
Alternative water sources are becoming
increasingly important and regular clubs are
member who counts Scotland, Malaysia,
USA, Bulgaria, Bahrain, UAE and now the
Czech Republic among the places where
west technical area sales manager for
ICL. Phil was the head groundsman at
Rochdale AFC for nine years, joining ICL
42 Overcoming homesickness as
a young greenkeeper abroad
Sam Sweetzer tells us about his
20 Membership switching off their mains supply in favour he’s plied his trade. Who better to ask about four years ago. During his time at ICL he has summer working in America on
of boreholes, reservoirs or other methods of what it’s like being a greenkeeper in a gained the BASIS and FACTS professional the Ohio State Program
sourcing water. different country? qualifications.
22 L&D
Either way, you’re going to want to
make sure you get the most out of every
last drop and that’s where an efficient,
The UK is leading the way in greenkeeper
training – a legacy of those early pioneers
in Scotland, slowly filtering down into the
34 Jordan Fairweather
46 The BIGGA Irrigation Survey
More than 100 BIGGA course
managers contributed to this
well‑maintained irrigation system comes rest of the country and propelled further major industry survey
to the fore. As such, we were interested to forward by education programmes such as At the time of writing, Jordan is in Europe,
discover whether there was a correlation Continue to Learn at BTME. And as such, preparing the soon-to-open PGA National
64 Around the Green between those who really struggled last
year and the state of their irrigation system.
As trained greenkeepers, you may think
UK greenkeepers are in demand around
the rest of the world. But what’s it like if you
do make the decision to experience life in
in the Czech Republic. However, such is
his tendency to travel the globe, that could
soon change. He is formerly group director
54 A guide to golf irrigation
water supplies in the UK
Giles Wardle discusses the
that’s an obvious question with an obvious another culture, whether permanently or on of agronomy at The Els Club Malaysia and latest water legislation and
answer, but we wanted to put together a a seasonal basis? We wanted to answer that director of agronomy for Troon Golf at The what it means to you
70 Buyer’s Guide body of research with data from around question and Jordan has done an incredible Royal Golf Club in Bahrain.
the country that would add weight to our
supposition. The initial findings are included
in the pages of this magazine, but we’d like
job, not only describing his own experiences
but also putting together tips and advice on
those who are interested in moving abroad. 46 Giles Wardle
60 Good, better, best - Foley
Company
The three stages to better
to take the results and incorporate them Finally, the latest edition of Your Course Giles Wardle is a chartered engineer mowing blades according to
72 Recruitment into a document that is distributed widely should have arrived in clubhouses during specialising in irrigation and water the grinder manufacturers
across other golf industry bodies to spread April. If you missed it, you can download a engineering with 28 years’ experience
the message that investment in irrigation
systems is hugely important if your course
digital copy from the BIGGA website. Please
share it as widely as you are able.
in the golf and sports turf market.
Giles established Irriplan in 1994 as an 62 Insight - Syngenta
How a drying down strategy
74 Around the Globe
independent consultancy and has designed
water supplies and irrigation systems for
will prepare your course if we
have another dry summer
Don’t forget you can download the regular and dyslexia‑friendly digital versions of
Greenkeeper International from the resources section of the BIGGA website. courses in the UK and overseas.
4 May 2019 a@BIGGALtd a@BIGGALtd May 2019 5
From In this
Featured this month
24 Toro Young Student
Greenkeeper of the Year
the
Issue
Danny Patten discusses what
happened after he won the
prestigious award
26 On trial in the Emerald Isle
Editor
Regulars ICL invited BIGGA members
to visit turf trials at the Ireland
An overview of this month’s Sports Turf Institute
edition of Greenkeeper
3 International, with your
28
Welcome
editor, Karl Hansell Where do I begin with TPC
Our contributors Sawgrass?
The John Deere TPC Sawgrass
Liquid questions
volunteers reflect on their time
6 Newsdesk at The Players Championship
24 Danny Patten
Water isn’t cheap and as greenkeepers you is to cope well with periods of extended dry
Danny began greenkeeping aged 17.
Having played golf at Elite Sports College
34 Heading off to new horizons
What is it like working in
12 Across the Board know that more than anyone. weather. in Liverpool, he decided to pursue
a different country? Is it
achievable for everybody?
Whether it be due to processing or May I take this opportunity to thank greenkeeping as a career. Just three years What do you need to know?
transportation, a sustainable water supply everyone who participated in the survey. later and he won the Toro Young Student
Contents
Contents
Jordan Fairweather answers all
isn’t as easy as just turning on a tap and last Your responses were well‑thought out and Greenkeeper of the Year Award in 2018. our questions
14 year’s drought brought that into sharper will go a long way to making this process a This month Danny reflects on everything
38
Ecology
focus than ever before. success. Such collaborative efforts are vital that’s happened since. Where on Earth is Steve
With the increasing demand for water if BIGGA is to achieve its strategic aims of Chappell?
in the broader public, golf courses are supporting greenkeepers everywhere. The former Gleneagles head
toe‑ing a fine line. There’s a potential public Elsewhere in the magazine and this 26 Phil Collinson man surprised everyone when
16 Industry News relations disaster awaiting anyone who
sprays large amounts of water on to a course
month I owe a huge debt of thanks to Jordan
Fairweather, the widely‑travelled BIGGA
Phil has 16 years’ experience working in he moved to Eastern Europe
the sportsturf industry and is the north
at a time when a hosepipe ban is in place.
Alternative water sources are becoming
increasingly important and regular clubs are
member who counts Scotland, Malaysia,
USA, Bulgaria, Bahrain, UAE and now the
Czech Republic among the places where
west technical area sales manager for
ICL. Phil was the head groundsman at
Rochdale AFC for nine years, joining ICL
42 Overcoming homesickness as
a young greenkeeper abroad
Sam Sweetzer tells us about his
20 Membership switching off their mains supply in favour he’s plied his trade. Who better to ask about four years ago. During his time at ICL he has summer working in America on
of boreholes, reservoirs or other methods of what it’s like being a greenkeeper in a gained the BASIS and FACTS professional the Ohio State Program
sourcing water. different country? qualifications.
22 L&D
Either way, you’re going to want to
make sure you get the most out of every
last drop and that’s where an efficient,
The UK is leading the way in greenkeeper
training – a legacy of those early pioneers
in Scotland, slowly filtering down into the
34 Jordan Fairweather
46 The BIGGA Irrigation Survey
More than 100 BIGGA course
managers contributed to this
well‑maintained irrigation system comes rest of the country and propelled further major industry survey
to the fore. As such, we were interested to forward by education programmes such as At the time of writing, Jordan is in Europe,
discover whether there was a correlation Continue to Learn at BTME. And as such, preparing the soon-to-open PGA National
64 Around the Green between those who really struggled last
year and the state of their irrigation system.
As trained greenkeepers, you may think
UK greenkeepers are in demand around
the rest of the world. But what’s it like if you
do make the decision to experience life in
in the Czech Republic. However, such is
his tendency to travel the globe, that could
soon change. He is formerly group director
54 A guide to golf irrigation
water supplies in the UK
Giles Wardle discusses the
that’s an obvious question with an obvious another culture, whether permanently or on of agronomy at The Els Club Malaysia and latest water legislation and
answer, but we wanted to put together a a seasonal basis? We wanted to answer that director of agronomy for Troon Golf at The what it means to you
70 Buyer’s Guide body of research with data from around question and Jordan has done an incredible Royal Golf Club in Bahrain.
the country that would add weight to our
supposition. The initial findings are included
in the pages of this magazine, but we’d like
job, not only describing his own experiences
but also putting together tips and advice on
those who are interested in moving abroad. 46 Giles Wardle
60 Good, better, best - Foley
Company
The three stages to better
to take the results and incorporate them Finally, the latest edition of Your Course Giles Wardle is a chartered engineer mowing blades according to
72 Recruitment into a document that is distributed widely should have arrived in clubhouses during specialising in irrigation and water the grinder manufacturers
across other golf industry bodies to spread April. If you missed it, you can download a engineering with 28 years’ experience
the message that investment in irrigation
systems is hugely important if your course
digital copy from the BIGGA website. Please
share it as widely as you are able.
in the golf and sports turf market.
Giles established Irriplan in 1994 as an 62 Insight - Syngenta
How a drying down strategy
74 Around the Globe
independent consultancy and has designed
water supplies and irrigation systems for
will prepare your course if we
have another dry summer
Don’t forget you can download the regular and dyslexia‑friendly digital versions of
Greenkeeper International from the resources section of the BIGGA website. courses in the UK and overseas.
4 May 2019 a@BIGGALtd a@BIGGALtd May 2019 5
Newsdesk
The latest greenkeeping news
Ultra marathon
Boyce Hill Course Manager
On Course Andy Harding is preparing
to undertake an ‘ultra
marathon’ in aid of the
Gender equality pledge
Name:
Buster mental health charity Mind.
The London to Brighton
Age:
challenge is held on 25 and
14
26 May and will see Andy run
Owner: 62 miles for charity.
The R&A’s assistant director ‑ golf development, Jackie Davidson, golf and to encourage more opportunities Rob Rowson
alongside BIGGA Chairman Scott Reeves
The epic challenges don’t
for women to work within the golf industry.
Course: end there and in September
This aligns with BIGGA’s own goals
Forest of Arden Andy will cycle from Lands
and the association is proud to state that it
Breed: End to John O’Groats.
has already created a Women in Turfcare
Staffordshire bull terrier
programme to assist female greenkeepers
and to encourage more to pursue Favourite treat: Easter funny
greenkeeping as a career. Paté on toast
At BTME 2019 in January, BIGGA Favourite spot on the The greenkeeping team at
hosted a networking session for its course: Wexham Park received a
female members and others who work Watching for people bit of assistance with turf
in and around the industry. A number coming down the ironing during April.
of volunteering opportunities have also greenkeepers’ track from member found him walking The Easter Bunny
been highlighted throughout 2019, the 11th tee. through golf reception like temporarily joined the team at
enabling BIGGA members to get involved
Newsdesk
Newsdesk
Naughtiest moment: he owned the place. the Buckinghamshire venue,
at major events such as The Open at
When Buster went looking My dog is happiest when… with Course Manager Tom
Royal Portrush, the AIG Women’s British
for me in the hotel when hunting through the Evans assuring Greenkeeper
Open at Woburn and the Solheim Cup at
I was in a meeting. A golf bracken on the back nine. International that appropriate
Gleneagles.
Greenkeeping will be promoted as an BIGGA Chairman Scott Reeves said: PPE was worn by the animal.
accessible career choice for everyone “Traditionally greenkeeping has been
following BIGGA’s signing up to the a male‑dominated profession, but that
R&A’s Women in Golf Charter. doesn’t have to be the case. Of the
In doing so, BIGGA has committed to members of the association who are
encourage all employers, such as golf women, we find they really enjoy their role
clubs, to consider the right person for and the opportunities for development
the position that is offered, regardless of that it offers.
gender. “There is nothing that a man can do
As Europe’s largest association of golf out on the golf course that a woman can’t
greenkeepers, BIGGA will also seek to and so we’re delighted to have signed this
develop a culture that values women’s pledge that demonstrates our commitment
involvement in pursuing a career as a to encouraging greater gender equality
greenkeeper. At the same time, BIGGA within the profession.”
applies the same culture to employing the The R&A’s Women in Golf Charter
right person for its own team, with over 50% is part of a global drive to increase the BIGGA’s Tracey Maddison speaking at the Women in
Specialised Spring Maintenance
of the management team being female. number of women and girls participating in Turfcare event at BTME alongside Naga Munchetty
Higher Education scholarships Dan Regan
Materials from Bathgate Silica Sand
BIGGA is pleased to have been able to Richard Mullen is the course manager BIGGA was saddened to hear of
z TOP DRESSINGS
award higher education scholarships to at Banchory in Aberdeenshire and the death of Dan Regan following a
(3mm screened, heat treated, sand/soil & sand/compost blends) 01270 762 828
two of its members. has been awarded a Jacobsen higher period of illness.
Bill Whybrow, who is employed at education scholarship as he studies Dan was a greenkeeper at z ROOTZONES & DIVOT MIXES sales@bathgatesilica.co.uk
Oosterhout in the Netherlands following towards the Higher National Diploma in Woodhall Hills in West Yorkshire, (8mm screened, sand/soil & sand/compost blends)
stints at Royal Bled in Slovenia and The Golf Course Management. having previously worked at Dewsbury z BUNKER & DRESSING SANDS bathgatesilica.co.uk
Australian in Sydney, has been awarded Higher education scholarships are and District. z PATHWAY MATERIALS
a Baroness Level 3 scholarship. Bill available to all eligible BIGGA members. BIGGA understands that Dan died
z GRAVELS
will be studying towards his Level 3 Head to the members’ area of the BIGGA during April and he left behind his
greenkeeping qualification. website for more details. wife, Ann, and two teenage daughters. z LIMESTONES
6 May 2019 a@BIGGALtd 01270 762 828 sales@bathgatesilica.co.uk bathgatesilica.co.uk
a@BIGGALtd May 2019 7
Newsdesk
The latest greenkeeping news
Ultra marathon
Boyce Hill Course Manager
On Course Andy Harding is preparing
to undertake an ‘ultra
marathon’ in aid of the
Gender equality pledge
Name:
Buster mental health charity Mind.
The London to Brighton
Age:
challenge is held on 25 and
14
26 May and will see Andy run
Owner: 62 miles for charity.
The R&A’s assistant director ‑ golf development, Jackie Davidson, golf and to encourage more opportunities Rob Rowson
alongside BIGGA Chairman Scott Reeves
The epic challenges don’t
for women to work within the golf industry.
Course: end there and in September
This aligns with BIGGA’s own goals
Forest of Arden Andy will cycle from Lands
and the association is proud to state that it
Breed: End to John O’Groats.
has already created a Women in Turfcare
Staffordshire bull terrier
programme to assist female greenkeepers
and to encourage more to pursue Favourite treat: Easter funny
greenkeeping as a career. Paté on toast
At BTME 2019 in January, BIGGA Favourite spot on the The greenkeeping team at
hosted a networking session for its course: Wexham Park received a
female members and others who work Watching for people bit of assistance with turf
in and around the industry. A number coming down the ironing during April.
of volunteering opportunities have also greenkeepers’ track from member found him walking The Easter Bunny
been highlighted throughout 2019, the 11th tee. through golf reception like temporarily joined the team at
enabling BIGGA members to get involved
Newsdesk
Newsdesk
Naughtiest moment: he owned the place. the Buckinghamshire venue,
at major events such as The Open at
When Buster went looking My dog is happiest when… with Course Manager Tom
Royal Portrush, the AIG Women’s British
for me in the hotel when hunting through the Evans assuring Greenkeeper
Open at Woburn and the Solheim Cup at
I was in a meeting. A golf bracken on the back nine. International that appropriate
Gleneagles.
Greenkeeping will be promoted as an BIGGA Chairman Scott Reeves said: PPE was worn by the animal.
accessible career choice for everyone “Traditionally greenkeeping has been
following BIGGA’s signing up to the a male‑dominated profession, but that
R&A’s Women in Golf Charter. doesn’t have to be the case. Of the
In doing so, BIGGA has committed to members of the association who are
encourage all employers, such as golf women, we find they really enjoy their role
clubs, to consider the right person for and the opportunities for development
the position that is offered, regardless of that it offers.
gender. “There is nothing that a man can do
As Europe’s largest association of golf out on the golf course that a woman can’t
greenkeepers, BIGGA will also seek to and so we’re delighted to have signed this
develop a culture that values women’s pledge that demonstrates our commitment
involvement in pursuing a career as a to encouraging greater gender equality
greenkeeper. At the same time, BIGGA within the profession.”
applies the same culture to employing the The R&A’s Women in Golf Charter
right person for its own team, with over 50% is part of a global drive to increase the BIGGA’s Tracey Maddison speaking at the Women in
Specialised Spring Maintenance
of the management team being female. number of women and girls participating in Turfcare event at BTME alongside Naga Munchetty
Higher Education scholarships Dan Regan
Materials from Bathgate Silica Sand
BIGGA is pleased to have been able to Richard Mullen is the course manager BIGGA was saddened to hear of
z TOP DRESSINGS
award higher education scholarships to at Banchory in Aberdeenshire and the death of Dan Regan following a
(3mm screened, heat treated, sand/soil & sand/compost blends) 01270 762 828
two of its members. has been awarded a Jacobsen higher period of illness.
Bill Whybrow, who is employed at education scholarship as he studies Dan was a greenkeeper at z ROOTZONES & DIVOT MIXES sales@bathgatesilica.co.uk
Oosterhout in the Netherlands following towards the Higher National Diploma in Woodhall Hills in West Yorkshire, (8mm screened, sand/soil & sand/compost blends)
stints at Royal Bled in Slovenia and The Golf Course Management. having previously worked at Dewsbury z BUNKER & DRESSING SANDS bathgatesilica.co.uk
Australian in Sydney, has been awarded Higher education scholarships are and District. z PATHWAY MATERIALS
a Baroness Level 3 scholarship. Bill available to all eligible BIGGA members. BIGGA understands that Dan died
z GRAVELS
will be studying towards his Level 3 Head to the members’ area of the BIGGA during April and he left behind his
greenkeeping qualification. website for more details. wife, Ann, and two teenage daughters. z LIMESTONES
6 May 2019 a@BIGGALtd 01270 762 828 sales@bathgatesilica.co.uk bathgatesilica.co.uk
a@BIGGALtd May 2019 7
Derek Scott retirement
at the club.
Derek is a former member of the
BIGGA Scotland Central Section
committee and said he will continue to
maintain a close relationship with BIGGA CUT OUT & KEEP YOUR
despite his retirement. He added: “I just FREE MOLE RULER AND
want to take this opportunity to thank ABCDE OF MELANOMA
SUN SAFETY?
everyone who knows me and has sent DETECTION GUIDE
messages wishing me a good retirement.”
Taking up the responsibility for
PAR FOR
maintaining the Scoonie course is
Christopher Noble, the 31‑year‑old
former deputy head greenkeeper with
THE COURSE!
the Fife Golf Trust.
Derek Scott and Chris Noble WHETHER WORKING OR PLAYING - BIGGA,
IN ASSOCIATION WITH NATIONAL SKIN CANCER
Scoonie head greenkeeper Derek Scott page, Derek said: “I just wanted to say
has retired after 25 years’ service at the that we have a fantastic association and CHARITY, SKCIN - ARE DEDICATED TO ADVISING
Leven golf club. through BIGGA I have met so many OUR MEMBERS ON THE IMPORTANCE OF SUN SAFETY.
Derek, 62, has been a loyal supporter professional greenkeepers and people
Newsdesk
of the association throughout his career associated with greenkeeping that I now
and was a friend of the late Cecil George, class as friends.”
with whom he is pictured alongside Derek has been welcomed as
Jimmy Neilson at BTME (right). an honorary member at Scoonie in Derek pictured at BTME alongside Jimmy Neilson and
the late Cecil George
Speaking on the BIGGA Facebook recognition of the time he spent working
Volunteer opportunity
BIGGA members have been therefore will be expected This Sun Awareness week and in Skin cancer is almost entirely
invited to get involved with to be available for the entire support of Melanoma May, BIGGA preventable - make sure you follow
the hosting of the Men’s hosting of either event. For members are urged to make sun these five simple steps to avoid
and Ladies’ Scottish Opens the Scottish Open volunteers protection, par for the course... becoming a statistic.
at The Renaissance Club in will need to be available from
East Lothian. Sunday 7 to Sunday 14 July. “The importance of sun safety cannot be 1. Keep covered!
Members have For the Ladies Scottish Open underestimated”, comments Marie Tudor from Clothing is one of the best forms of defense against
been invited to join the volunteers will need to be on national Skin Cancer Charity, Skcin. “UV is a known UV. Always keep shoulders covered with a T-shirt
greenkeeping team under the site from Sunday 4 to Sunday carcinogen, damage is cumulative and irreparable and reduce risk further by wearing long sleeves
direction of Course Manager 11 August. Catering and and can result in death. Greenkeepers and golfers and trousers.
Paul Seago. clothing will be provided. alike are at greater risk of developing the disease
due to the prolonged periods of time spent 2. Apply Sunscreen
Volunteers will play a For more information, Apply a minimum SPF 30, broad-spectrum, UVA
outdoors and men in particular are less
full part in the preparation contact Paul by emailing sunscreen to any areas of skin not covered by
likely to consider sun protection, let alone put it
of the tournaments and seago.paul@outlook.com clothing. Reapply every 2 hours and more often if
into practice”.
sweating/towelling.
A YouGov survey, commissioned by Cancer
3. Wear a sun hat
Research UK, found that more than 50 per cent
Wear a broad-brimmed sun hat to protect the
more men than women forget to protect their
scalp and shade the face, neck and ears - the most
skin and, worryingly, 75 per cent more men than
common areas for skin cancers to develop.
women are not worried about getting sunburnt.
4. Wear sunglasses
BIGGA have been working with Skcin to raise Wear good quality wrap-around sunglasses to
Download BIGGA’s awareness amongst members and provide life protect your eyes from UV damage.
saving information, promoting best practice when
new podcast it comes to UV protection and the importance of 5. Shade from the sun when possible
checking your skin for the early signs of change. UV Particularly between 11am and 3pm when UV is
on Spotify and Apple Podcasts exposure is responsible for almost 90% of all skin strongest. Outdoor workers should also schedule
cancer cases and 4 out of 5 melanoma deaths, so works where possible to minimise direct exposure
You can be a part of the Men’s and Ladies Scottish Opens at The Renaissance Club prevention is most definitely better than cure. during peak UV hours.
8 May 2019 a@BIGGALtd
Derek Scott retirement
at the club.
Derek is a former member of the
BIGGA Scotland Central Section
committee and said he will continue to
maintain a close relationship with BIGGA CUT OUT & KEEP YOUR
despite his retirement. He added: “I just FREE MOLE RULER AND
want to take this opportunity to thank ABCDE OF MELANOMA
SUN SAFETY?
everyone who knows me and has sent DETECTION GUIDE
messages wishing me a good retirement.”
Taking up the responsibility for
PAR FOR
maintaining the Scoonie course is
Christopher Noble, the 31‑year‑old
former deputy head greenkeeper with
THE COURSE!
the Fife Golf Trust.
Derek Scott and Chris Noble WHETHER WORKING OR PLAYING - BIGGA,
IN ASSOCIATION WITH NATIONAL SKIN CANCER
Scoonie head greenkeeper Derek Scott page, Derek said: “I just wanted to say
has retired after 25 years’ service at the that we have a fantastic association and CHARITY, SKCIN - ARE DEDICATED TO ADVISING
Leven golf club. through BIGGA I have met so many OUR MEMBERS ON THE IMPORTANCE OF SUN SAFETY.
Derek, 62, has been a loyal supporter professional greenkeepers and people
Newsdesk
of the association throughout his career associated with greenkeeping that I now
and was a friend of the late Cecil George, class as friends.”
with whom he is pictured alongside Derek has been welcomed as
Jimmy Neilson at BTME (right). an honorary member at Scoonie in Derek pictured at BTME alongside Jimmy Neilson and
the late Cecil George
Speaking on the BIGGA Facebook recognition of the time he spent working
Volunteer opportunity
BIGGA members have been therefore will be expected This Sun Awareness week and in Skin cancer is almost entirely
invited to get involved with to be available for the entire support of Melanoma May, BIGGA preventable - make sure you follow
the hosting of the Men’s hosting of either event. For members are urged to make sun these five simple steps to avoid
and Ladies’ Scottish Opens the Scottish Open volunteers protection, par for the course... becoming a statistic.
at The Renaissance Club in will need to be available from
East Lothian. Sunday 7 to Sunday 14 July. “The importance of sun safety cannot be 1. Keep covered!
Members have For the Ladies Scottish Open underestimated”, comments Marie Tudor from Clothing is one of the best forms of defense against
been invited to join the volunteers will need to be on national Skin Cancer Charity, Skcin. “UV is a known UV. Always keep shoulders covered with a T-shirt
greenkeeping team under the site from Sunday 4 to Sunday carcinogen, damage is cumulative and irreparable and reduce risk further by wearing long sleeves
direction of Course Manager 11 August. Catering and and can result in death. Greenkeepers and golfers and trousers.
Paul Seago. clothing will be provided. alike are at greater risk of developing the disease
due to the prolonged periods of time spent 2. Apply Sunscreen
Volunteers will play a For more information, Apply a minimum SPF 30, broad-spectrum, UVA
outdoors and men in particular are less
full part in the preparation contact Paul by emailing sunscreen to any areas of skin not covered by
likely to consider sun protection, let alone put it
of the tournaments and seago.paul@outlook.com clothing. Reapply every 2 hours and more often if
into practice”.
sweating/towelling.
A YouGov survey, commissioned by Cancer
3. Wear a sun hat
Research UK, found that more than 50 per cent
Wear a broad-brimmed sun hat to protect the
more men than women forget to protect their
scalp and shade the face, neck and ears - the most
skin and, worryingly, 75 per cent more men than
common areas for skin cancers to develop.
women are not worried about getting sunburnt.
4. Wear sunglasses
BIGGA have been working with Skcin to raise Wear good quality wrap-around sunglasses to
Download BIGGA’s awareness amongst members and provide life protect your eyes from UV damage.
saving information, promoting best practice when
new podcast it comes to UV protection and the importance of 5. Shade from the sun when possible
checking your skin for the early signs of change. UV Particularly between 11am and 3pm when UV is
on Spotify and Apple Podcasts exposure is responsible for almost 90% of all skin strongest. Outdoor workers should also schedule
cancer cases and 4 out of 5 melanoma deaths, so works where possible to minimise direct exposure
You can be a part of the Men’s and Ladies Scottish Opens at The Renaissance Club prevention is most definitely better than cure. during peak UV hours.
8 May 2019 a@BIGGALtd
Cameras at the ready?
BIGGA’s annual photographic will receive a brand new Apple iPad Entry guidelines
competition is back, with a brand new 32GB and a framed print of their winning
CUT OUT & KEEP YOUR Apple iPad up for grabs for the winner. photograph, to be presented at the BIGGA • Only BIGGA members may enter.
FREE MOLE RULER AND BIGGA members work in some of Welcome Celebration at BTME 2020. • Maximum of five entries per member,
ABCDE OF MELANOMA the most spectacular scenery and Bill Whybrow’s spectacular image of although only one image from each
entrant may be chosen as a finalist.
CHECK YOUR
DETECTION GUIDE landscapes anywhere in the world and, a resplendent Royal Bled Golf Club in
with most carrying smartphones in their Slovenia was selected as the winner of the • Images must have been taken in the
pocket, it’s never been easier to snap an BIGGA Photographic Competition 2018. calendar year from Saturday 25 August
incredible picture and get involved with Bill had never entered a photo 2018 to Friday 30 August 2019.
SKIN FOR SIGNS the photographic competition. competition before and took the image • Twenty‑four finalists will be selected
This year we’re looking for images that with his smartphone, so anyone has and revealed in the October edition of
showcase excellence in greenkeeping, a chance of winning, no matter their Greenkeeper International.
OF CHANGE
highlighting how a well‑presented experience or equipment! • Finalists will be put to a public vote,
course can enhance the surrounding Twenty entries will be chosen as taking place on the BIGGA website,
environment. Images of greenkeepers finalists and put to a member vote, with with votes helping to select the top 12
at work within the context of the wider the top 12 being selected for BIGGA’s images. These images will comprise
DETECTING SKIN CANCER EARLY, COULD SAVE YOUR landscape are especially encouraged. annual desk calendar. From those 12, an the BIGGA Photographic Calendar
The winner of this year’s competition overall winner will be chosen. 2020, which will be distributed
LIFE, BIGGA MEMBERS ARE URGED TO SWOT UP ON alongside the December 2019 edition
SKIN HEALTH AND LEARN THEIR ABCDE’S of Greenkeeper International.
Tips for taking a great golf course picture! To enter the competition, email high
Newsdesk
quality versions of your photographs
1. Be different 6. Depth is good along with your name, membership
Can you make your image stand out The best images are ones that take number and club name to
by capturing a unique feature of your you on a journey and ones that keep comps@bigga.co.uk before the deadline
course? you interested from the foreground on Friday 30 August 2019.
2. Keep your phone handy right into the background.
You never know when the light may 7. Choose images from throughout
be just right for the perfect image the year At times, BIGGA may choose to replicate submitted
and you won’t want to miss the The top 12 images will be selected photographs for other promotional material relating to
According to the NHS, it is estimated Check your skin regularly (at least opportunity. for the BIGGA Photographic the association. To opt out of this, please state as such
when entering the competition,
that there are 48 deaths and 241 cases once a month) following the ABCDE of 3. Submit images in the highest Calendar, so the judges are always The names of entrants will be published alongside the
of melanoma skin cancer each year melanoma rule and if in doubt, get it quality possible on the look‑out for examples that club at which the image was taken, but data will not be
Lower resolution images are represent life on the golf course at collected or shared for other purposes.
in Britain caused by UV exposure at checked out! Here’s some top tips on
pixelated and lose much of the various times of the year.
work. BIGGA members are urged to how to check your skin:
detail. Send your image through as 8. Tell us what’s happening
get checking their skin and learn their
• Undress completely, make sure you have good high quality as possible and it will in the picture
ABCDE’s. help it stand up to closer scrutiny A caption that only
light, use a mirror and get someone to help you
to check hard to see spots. Get to know your skin from the judges. says IMG232.jpg tells
The sooner a skin cancer is detected and treated
and what is normal for you so that you can easily 4. Don’t mess with your photo the judges nothing
the better and when it comes to melanoma, early
identify and record any changes. too much about what they’re
detection is vital for survival. Melanoma is the least
common but the most dangerous form of skin The judges are looking for the best seeing. Help them
• Make sure you check your entire body, for example out by telling them
cancer, melanoma can grow quickly and spread to natural images of golf courses. By
soles of the feet, between fingers and toes, under
form new cancers elsewhere in the body. altering the photo too much you will the story behind the
nails, the scalp and eyes. Melanoma can form
lose that natural beauty. If you put picture.
anywhere on the body, not just on areas frequently
“Knowing how to check your skin and what to look your image through an Instagram
exposed to UV.
for is vital when it comes to the early detection of filter you will also lose a lot of the
melanoma which is now one of the biggest cancer • Cut out the mole ruler (left) and use our ABCDE of original quality.
killers in 15-34 year olds” comments Marie Tudor melanoma guide to help you identify potential 5. Plan ahead
from Skcin. “Skcin are proud to have been working melanomas. Be aware that there is one exception to Planning is good and there’s nothing
with BIGGA to educate members, not just about the ABCDE rule and that’s ‘Nodular Melanoma’ - a wrong with setting up a shot if you
prevention, but the signs and symptoms of skin particularly invasive and fast growing form that is
cancer to promote early detection and potentially, have a good idea. If you can tie a
usually elevated, firm to touch, more even in colour number of elements together into one
save lives’. and has even edges.
image through careful planning, you
There are several forms of more common, non- • If you notice any of the ABCDE or nodular have a good chance of doing well.
melanoma skin cancers and pre-cancerous skin melanoma symptoms, or If a new or existing spot
lesions that are also important to identify and treat or mole starts to itch, gets painful, starts bleeding,
- further information and guidance on what to look gets crusty or inflamed - YOU MUST CONSULT
for can be found at skcin.org YOUR GP AND/OR DERMATOLOGIST IMMEDIATELY!
a@BIGGALtd May 2019 11Cameras at the ready?
BIGGA’s annual photographic will receive a brand new Apple iPad Entry guidelines
competition is back, with a brand new 32GB and a framed print of their winning
CUT OUT & KEEP YOUR Apple iPad up for grabs for the winner. photograph, to be presented at the BIGGA • Only BIGGA members may enter.
FREE MOLE RULER AND BIGGA members work in some of Welcome Celebration at BTME 2020. • Maximum of five entries per member,
ABCDE OF MELANOMA the most spectacular scenery and Bill Whybrow’s spectacular image of although only one image from each
entrant may be chosen as a finalist.
CHECK YOUR
DETECTION GUIDE landscapes anywhere in the world and, a resplendent Royal Bled Golf Club in
with most carrying smartphones in their Slovenia was selected as the winner of the • Images must have been taken in the
pocket, it’s never been easier to snap an BIGGA Photographic Competition 2018. calendar year from Saturday 25 August
incredible picture and get involved with Bill had never entered a photo 2018 to Friday 30 August 2019.
SKIN FOR SIGNS the photographic competition. competition before and took the image • Twenty‑four finalists will be selected
This year we’re looking for images that with his smartphone, so anyone has and revealed in the October edition of
showcase excellence in greenkeeping, a chance of winning, no matter their Greenkeeper International.
OF CHANGE
highlighting how a well‑presented experience or equipment! • Finalists will be put to a public vote,
course can enhance the surrounding Twenty entries will be chosen as taking place on the BIGGA website,
environment. Images of greenkeepers finalists and put to a member vote, with with votes helping to select the top 12
at work within the context of the wider the top 12 being selected for BIGGA’s images. These images will comprise
DETECTING SKIN CANCER EARLY, COULD SAVE YOUR landscape are especially encouraged. annual desk calendar. From those 12, an the BIGGA Photographic Calendar
The winner of this year’s competition overall winner will be chosen. 2020, which will be distributed
LIFE, BIGGA MEMBERS ARE URGED TO SWOT UP ON alongside the December 2019 edition
SKIN HEALTH AND LEARN THEIR ABCDE’S of Greenkeeper International.
Tips for taking a great golf course picture! To enter the competition, email high
Newsdesk
quality versions of your photographs
1. Be different 6. Depth is good along with your name, membership
Can you make your image stand out The best images are ones that take number and club name to
by capturing a unique feature of your you on a journey and ones that keep comps@bigga.co.uk before the deadline
course? you interested from the foreground on Friday 30 August 2019.
2. Keep your phone handy right into the background.
You never know when the light may 7. Choose images from throughout
be just right for the perfect image the year At times, BIGGA may choose to replicate submitted
and you won’t want to miss the The top 12 images will be selected photographs for other promotional material relating to
According to the NHS, it is estimated Check your skin regularly (at least opportunity. for the BIGGA Photographic the association. To opt out of this, please state as such
when entering the competition,
that there are 48 deaths and 241 cases once a month) following the ABCDE of 3. Submit images in the highest Calendar, so the judges are always The names of entrants will be published alongside the
of melanoma skin cancer each year melanoma rule and if in doubt, get it quality possible on the look‑out for examples that club at which the image was taken, but data will not be
Lower resolution images are represent life on the golf course at collected or shared for other purposes.
in Britain caused by UV exposure at checked out! Here’s some top tips on
pixelated and lose much of the various times of the year.
work. BIGGA members are urged to how to check your skin:
detail. Send your image through as 8. Tell us what’s happening
get checking their skin and learn their
• Undress completely, make sure you have good high quality as possible and it will in the picture
ABCDE’s. help it stand up to closer scrutiny A caption that only
light, use a mirror and get someone to help you
to check hard to see spots. Get to know your skin from the judges. says IMG232.jpg tells
The sooner a skin cancer is detected and treated
and what is normal for you so that you can easily 4. Don’t mess with your photo the judges nothing
the better and when it comes to melanoma, early
identify and record any changes. too much about what they’re
detection is vital for survival. Melanoma is the least
common but the most dangerous form of skin The judges are looking for the best seeing. Help them
• Make sure you check your entire body, for example out by telling them
cancer, melanoma can grow quickly and spread to natural images of golf courses. By
soles of the feet, between fingers and toes, under
form new cancers elsewhere in the body. altering the photo too much you will the story behind the
nails, the scalp and eyes. Melanoma can form
lose that natural beauty. If you put picture.
anywhere on the body, not just on areas frequently
“Knowing how to check your skin and what to look your image through an Instagram
exposed to UV.
for is vital when it comes to the early detection of filter you will also lose a lot of the
melanoma which is now one of the biggest cancer • Cut out the mole ruler (left) and use our ABCDE of original quality.
killers in 15-34 year olds” comments Marie Tudor melanoma guide to help you identify potential 5. Plan ahead
from Skcin. “Skcin are proud to have been working melanomas. Be aware that there is one exception to Planning is good and there’s nothing
with BIGGA to educate members, not just about the ABCDE rule and that’s ‘Nodular Melanoma’ - a wrong with setting up a shot if you
prevention, but the signs and symptoms of skin particularly invasive and fast growing form that is
cancer to promote early detection and potentially, have a good idea. If you can tie a
usually elevated, firm to touch, more even in colour number of elements together into one
save lives’. and has even edges.
image through careful planning, you
There are several forms of more common, non- • If you notice any of the ABCDE or nodular have a good chance of doing well.
melanoma skin cancers and pre-cancerous skin melanoma symptoms, or If a new or existing spot
lesions that are also important to identify and treat or mole starts to itch, gets painful, starts bleeding,
- further information and guidance on what to look gets crusty or inflamed - YOU MUST CONSULT
for can be found at skcin.org YOUR GP AND/OR DERMATOLOGIST IMMEDIATELY!
a@BIGGALtd May 2019 11Across FUNDING YOUR FUTURE
the Board
The Continuing Professional Development and world class education we provide would not be possible
without the assistance of BIGGA Partners and BIGGA Education Supporters. Ensuring our members stay at
the forefront of the turf management industry takes considerable investment, and we are hugely grateful to
the following for their ongoing support.
Chris Sheehan | BIGGA President | Course Manager | West Derby
I am writing this article as some The BIGGA Delegation at the Golf Industry Show 2019
welcome rain is falling on our golf
course here on Merseyside.
Our first competition takes place
tomorrow and Storm Hannah is bearing
down on us. Such is life as a greenkeeper!
My first few months of as BIGGA
President have been extremely busy, as I
knew they would be.
Across the Board
Immediately following BTME, I made
my way to the Golf Industry Show
in San Diego and then on to Rome
for the Federation of European Golf
Greenkeepers Association’s annual
conference.
The visit to San Diego was my first
visit to a Golf Industry Show, so I’ll admit
to being daunted, not knowing what to
expect. Upon arrival, we collected our to explore new ways to attract talent into Simone, which will host the Ryder Cup
entry passes for the conference the day greenkeeping and to highlight that it is in 2022. What amazed me was that
before the event, which I thought was a a career worth staying in for life, if you they were completely rebuilding the
great idea and a way of cutting down on embrace all the opportunities available course ahead of the event. The club
the queues. With a few hours left in the to you. has 27 holes, meaning they are able
day, we then met up with the lads who As I previously mentioned, this was to reconstruct nine in one go, leaving
were a part of the BIGGA delegation to my first Golf Industry Show and I was another 18 holes open for play. It goes
the show with Bernhard and Company. amazed at the sheer scale of it. There without saying that the place will look
The following morning saw the show were many companies I recognised and fantastic when the work is completed.
get underway, when we took part in a lots more that were new to me. One of However, the day at Marco Simone
meeting with various other greenkeeping the highlights was the company that was about industry changes and how
associations who were in attendance. was advertising goose dogs. These are the greenkeeping associations across
One of the major dilemmas that we dogs who are specifically trained to Europe can set the scene for Golf Course
all shared was recruitment and ways to scare geese off the golf course. There 2030. This is the R&A’s initiative that
increase the number of people joining were two trained dogs given as a prize will create a roadmap of how best to
the industry. in the raffle and in another raffle the manage golf courses for the future in an
I’ll admit that I was surprised at how prize was a Harley Davidson motor bike, ever‑changing environment.
an issue that I have experienced at which is something I’d like to suggest we The FEGGA members really
West Derby on a local level was shared introduce at BTME! looked after us and made us feel very
by others in the industry from all over I am pleased to be able to say that welcome and the conference itself was
the world. The one exception was the the staff and every BIGGA member who very professionally put together and
Canadian greenkeeping association, who attended the show worked tirelessly to well‑received by everyone.
said they currently had less of an issue promote our association. I can honestly As you can see, being BIGGA
with recruitment at their golf clubs as the say that everyone I spoke to wanted to President has proven to be very hectic in
country had taken in a large contingent engage with us as British greenkeepers the first three months, but the experience
of Syrian refugees, who had filled a large and our association is held in very high so far has also been very enjoyable. I’m
number of their vacancies! I’m not sure if regard by the GCSAA. sure that the rest of my year will be just as
there’s anything we can learn from that, So onto Rome and the FEGGA busy and hopefully I will get to meet a lot Individual Contributors: Steven Tierney MG ■ Chris Lomas MG ■ Andrew Campbell MG CGCS
but as an industry we have all pledged conference. We had a day at Marco of you along the way. Richard McGlynn ■ Jaey Goodchild ■ Frank Newberry ■ Greg Evans MG ■ Jon Kiger
12 May 2019 a@BIGGALtdYou can also read
