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NEWS ARTICLES

FGM Claymore to distribute Echo and Shindaiwa

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FGM Claymore to distribute Echo and Shindaiwa: FGM Claymore have announced that it will now be the distributor of the popular Echo and Shindaiwa brands commencing on the 1st January 2022 for the UK market.

“We are delighted with this appointment which will further strengthen our position in the UK market. We have a long history of importing and distributing 2-stroke hand-held product and our aim is to build the Echo and Shindaiwa brands to significant levels through a network of independent servicing dealers.” Explains Paul Butterly, Managing Director, FGM Claymore.

FGM Claymore to distribute Echo and Shindaiwa

FGM Claymore to distribute Echo and Shindaiwa

The company will be launching a new 40V range of consumer products including lawnmowers and hand-held products which will be available Spring 2022. As well as providing the range of X Series “best in class” products with emission compliant petrol products and its 56V battery, both for use in the professional market.

In addition, the company have announced that Neil Turner will be joining the team as its new Sales Director to focus on their existing dealer network and new appointments in the coming months.

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Sutton United invests in Reesink

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Sutton United invests in Reesink: Securing Football League status is an historic achievement and for Sutton United Football Club in south London, it led to a £550,000 pitchworks investment in the club’s home ground, including a new hybrid pitch and irrigation solution from Reesink Turfcare comprising a SRC Ranger control system and Toro sprinklers.

FA regulations stipulate that 3G artificial pitches are not fit for purpose in Division Two and above, which is why Sutton United made an urgent review of its existing 3G pitch and lined up leading sports pitch specialist, Agripower, to make preparations for a full install in the downtime between the 2019/20 and 2021/22 seasons.

Sutton United invests in Reesink

Sutton United invests in Reesink

Jerry Anderson, director at Agripower, comments: “We were given a conditional order in May 2021 as the club edged towards promotion and remained on stand-by with a view to removing the existing 3G pitch and replacing it with a hybrid alternative in the narrow window between seasons.

“Once the club had confirmation of its promotion to the Football League we started immediately, deploying a five strong-team working full-time between the end of May until early August. It was a quick turnaround!”

Agripower installed a hybrid pitch system which comprised of high-grade natural grass. Once the old system had been removed, the pitch was rebuilt with a hybrid carpet over a base rootzone, with the carpet infilled with a similar rootzone before seeding.

Supporting the hybrid pitch was a comprehensive Toro irrigation system, which comprised of a network of 350m of ring main pipework, 200m of lateral pipe, 16 value in head Infinity sprinklers and eight B series in-pitch sprinklers in the field.

Jerry continues: “We used the new SRC Ranger control system, which has scheduling capacity for up to 100 stations and web-control, along with Toro Infinity sprinklers on the outside of the pitch and Toro B-Series sprinklers on the infill.

“As well as a new pumphouse and pumps, a match pitch of this kind also requires a higher water flow rate which is why we installed wider diameter pipes and manual watering points for localised watering. It’s particularly useful for high-impact areas such as the goalmouth or when clubs like to slick-up the playing surface at half time.

“The Toro irrigation system is very good and we particularly like the fact that the Infinity sprinklers are top-serviceable, minimising disruption to the hybrid carpet. We have also been impressed with the on-site support from Toro distributor, Reesink Turfcare, who were on-hand throughout the entire project.”

The new pitch not only validates Sutton United FC’s place within the Football League, but it enables the team to maximise playing time. A grass pitch can generally withstand three to six hours of playing time, whilst its hybrid equivalent can deliver up to 18 hours of play.

Adrian Barry, vice chairman at Sutton United Football Club, comments: “The team at Agripower did a tremendous job replacing our previous 3G surface with a grass pitch in a tight time frame such that we were able to host Football League matches in August. Having an excellent irrigation system is, of course, pivotal to the continued provision of an excellent playing surface and feedback from all users has been terrific in this regard. We thank everyone involved for their support and hard work as Sutton United embarks on this exciting new journey in its history. “

To find out more about the SRC Ranger control system and Toro irrigation range of sprinklers, call Reesink Turfcare on 01480 226800, email info@reesinkturfcare.co.uk or visit reesinkturfcare.co.uk

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Kent groundsman scoops award

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Kent groundsman scoops award: Kent’s head of grounds Adrian Llong has won the England Cricket Board’s One-Day award for Grounds Manager of the Year.

Read the full article from the KentOnline here

Groundsman to play on his 'sacred' pitch

Groundsman to play on his ‘sacred’ pitch

For the latest industry news visit turfmatters.co.uk/news

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Taunton’s tip-top pitch

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Taunton’s tip-top pitch: Everybody knows Taunton Town has an impressive pitch that always looks in tip top condition.

Read the full article from the Somerset County Gazette here

Groundsman to play on his 'sacred' pitch

Groundsman to play on his ‘sacred’ pitch

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Polaris leads into the future

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Polaris leads into the future: Polaris (NYSE: PII), the world leader in powersports and off-road innovation, has harnessed the power of electrification and is once again pushing the industry forward with the introduction of its highly anticipated RANGER XP Kinetic – the hardest working, smoothest riding UTV ever built.

Featuring an entirely new electric powertrain born from Polaris’ partnership with Zero Motorcycles®, RANGER XP Kinetic establishes a new standard for UTV performance and productivity, delivering uncompromised capability, unrivalled durability and refined performance.

Polaris leads into the future

Polaris leads into the future

Time and again, Polaris has demonstrated our commitment to rider-driven innovation, delivering what our riders need and going beyond what they imagined was possible,” said Mike Speetzen, CEO of Polaris. “Building on this rich legacy, we continue our relentless pursuit to create unmatched riding experiences and are partnering with Zero Motorcycles® to harness the incredible capabilities of electric for our customers. The new RANGER XP Kinetic is a powerful example of this.”

With industry-leading horsepower and torque, RANGER XP Kinetic offers more power than ever to pull more, haul more, and get more done. The electric powertrain’s instantaneous torque delivers precise control when pulling or towing heavy loads. In addition, the industry’s most advanced drivetrain performs with less moving parts for lower maintenance costs and more uptime for increased productivity. Plus, the quiet electric powertrain means easy conversation with family and friends, the ability to work in the early morning without waking neighbours, quiet operation around animals and offers stealthy entry and exit to hunting spots.

“The RANGER XP Kinetic is built for our hard-working customers who take pride in their work, value accomplishment, and are always looking for ways to maximise their productivity,” said Steve Menneto, President of Polaris Off-Road. “The RANGER XP Kinetic unlocks the benefits of electrification to enable these customers to drive efficiency and get more done, giving them the power to do more than ever before.”

“Electrifying an already class-leading product is a very complicated undertaking, but with Polaris we had the advantage of starting with both the best UTV in the industry and a very talented and collaborative team,” said Sam Paschel, CEO of Zero Motorcycles. “The combination of Zero Motorcycles’ technology, our passion for electrification as a powertrain solutions provider, and Polaris’ dedication to consumer-led innovation has created an all-new electric Ranger that delivers an incredible rider experience.”

RANGER XP Kinetic is available as a 3-seat model and will feature a Premium and Ultimate trim. The Premium trim contains a single 14.9 kWh lithium-ion battery that offers an estimated range of 45 miles (70 kilometres), while the Ultimate trims delivers 29.8 kWh of battery capacity and offers an estimated range of 80 miles (130 kilometres).* The Ultimate trim also offers a 18-centimetre infotainment screen powered by RIDE COMMAND technology.

UNCOMPROMISED CAPABILITY

The all-new RANGER XP Kinetic offers uncompromised capability to help customers get more done and features the most horsepower and torque ever found in a utility side-by-side. Industry-leading 110 HP and 140lb-ft of instant torque delivers maximum capability for confidently hauling and towing heavy loads even over the toughest terrain. Together, the unmatched horsepower and torque gives customers the power they need, when they need it, for the ability to effortlessly tow 1134kg and haul an industry-best 567kg. RANGER XP Kinetic also features a class-leading 35.5-centimetres of ground clearance to confidently rise over obstacles, and is equipped with 74-centimetre, 8-ply Pro Armor X-Terrain tires for maximum traction and durability to crawl over rocks and ruts. And with 25.4-centimetres of suspension travel, XP Kinetic smooths out the bumps so customers can ride comfortably in challenging terrain – no matter where the job takes them.

UNRIVALLED DURABILITY

RANGER XP Kinetic also delivers unrivalled durability so riders can maximise their uptime and improve productivity. The electric powertrain features fewer moving parts, meaning less maintenance and more uptime. RANGER XP Kinetic has been torture-tested in extreme conditions and treacherous terrain and is backed by a 1-year factory-installed warranty, 3-year electric powertrain coverage, and 5-year battery coverage**. What’s more, the electric powertrain does not require oil changes, filter replacements, spark plugs or clutch maintenance. Scheduled maintenance costs are expected to be 70% less than average maintenance costs for similar fuel-powered vehicles.***

RANGER XP Kinetic also features a full-coverage front bumper and full-body skid plate for added vehicle protection while riding on tough terrain.

REFINED PERFORMANCE

Capable and durable, RANGER XP Kinetic also delivers refined performance with clean, quiet operation for easy conversations with friends and family, stealthy trips to remote hunting spots, and quiet operation around horses and other livestock. The electric powertrain delivers smooth, precise control when operating at low speeds, so customers will have full control and confidence while towing, backing up to a trailer, or spraying a fence line. The instantaneous torque also delivers faster acceleration for an exhilarating ride on the family property.

RANGER XP Kinetic also offers smart performance features to help customers maximise productivity. A 12V cargo box outlet is convenient for powering accessories like sprayers or charging portable batteries. A new shifter design includes high, low, neutral and park, but features a new, integrated switch for forward and reverse so customers change directions with the flip of a switch, making tasks like plowing fast and efficient.

In addition to high and low gear, RANGER XP Kinetic also has three drive modes for maximum versatility optimised to driving conditions and range management:

Eco+: Optimises torque and top speed for maximum range and light duty jobs.
Standard: Optimises throttle response for everyday driving and moderate-sized jobs
Sport: Optimises throttle response for spirited driving and the toughest jobs

ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY POWERED BY RIDE COMMAND

RANGER XP Kinetic is available with a 18-centimetre infotainment screen powered by RIDE COMMAND technology that lets you work smarter and delivers peace of mind. Customers will have the ability to see estimated remaining range and the battery state of charge directly on the 18-centimetre screen. You can even drop a waypoint on your charging location and see how far away you are from your next charge at any given time.

FAST AND CONVENIENT CHARGING

Convenient charging options are designed to fit specific customer needs and are as easy as plugging into a standard wall outlet. Whether customers are looking for an overnight charge, or a quick top off during the lunch hour, they are covered. XP Kinetic comes standard with a combined Level 1 / Level 2 EV charge cord that allows you to charge from a 120V or 240V outlet.

Factory-installed on-board charging rate is 3kW for the Premium trim and 6kW for the Ultimate trim. Both can reach full charge from 0% in as-fast-as 5 hours as equipped.†† With the available accessory onboard charging system, rates can be boosted to 6kW for Premium and 9kW for Ultimate for up to 50% faster charge times. A 240V power supply is recommended for fastest charging and can deliver over 4x faster charging than a standard 120V outlet.

CUSTOMISATION

RANGER XP Kinetic is compatible with 95% of RANGER XP 1000 accessories including the same great Pro Shield cab systems for tight sealing and all-season rider comfort. Additional accessories available include easy-to-install Pro HD winches for added pulling power and Lock & Ride Storage to keep tools and gear secure while riding.

Plus, Polaris has designed new accessories specific for RANGER XP Kinetic, including a fast-acting electric heater kit so customers can ride in comfort in the colder months, as well as an upgraded 3kW on-board charger for maximum fast charging. With a whole portfolio of off-road accessories, consumers can build the ultimate machine for work, play, or anything in between.

RANGER XP Kinetic will arrive in dealerships in Summer 2022.

* Range estimates based on manufacturer data on typical customer driving usage and conditions. Actual range varies based on conditions such as external environment, weather, speed, cargo loads, rates of acceleration, vehicle maintenance, and vehicle usage.
** Warranty coverage period, terms and conditions may vary by market.
*** Manufacturer estimate based on average scheduled maintenance costs over the course of a 5-year timeframe.
†† Estimated charging times based on a 240V power supply.

For the latest industry news visit turfmatters.co.uk/news

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