Lawn Mower Racing Returns to GroundsFest

Lawn Mower Racing Returns to GroundsFest

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Lawn Mower Racing Returns to GroundsFest

One of the most popular attractions at GroundsFest is set to return with lawn mower racing taking place across both days of the event.

Lawn Mower Racing Returns to GroundsFest

Lawn Mower Racing Returns to GroundsFest

Sponsored by Kramp UK and organised by the West Midlands Lawn Mower Racing Association (WMLMRA), the action-packed competition will bring plenty of thrills, spills and entertainment to visitors throughout the show as competitors battle it out on a custom-built track in a bid to lift the second-ever GroundsFest Cup.

Adding an exciting new dimension to the racing this year will be the inclusion of the junior section of the West Midlands Lawn Mower Racing Association, giving younger racers the opportunity to showcase their skills in front of the GroundsFest audience.

The racing will take place at timed intervals throughout both days of the show, ensuring visitors have plenty of opportunities to witness the action while exploring everything else GroundsFest has to offer.

Lexi Gilders, Marketing Manager UK at Kramp UK, said:

“We’re delighted to be sponsoring the lawn mower racing at GroundsFest again this year. It’s a great feature that brings a real sense of fun to the event and reflects the friendly, community atmosphere that makes GroundsFest so unique.

Lawn Mower Racing Returns to GroundsFest

Lawn Mower Racing Returns to GroundsFest

“We’re looking forward to meeting visitors on our stand, which this year will be housed in our distinctive red shipping container and packed with products to explore. We’ll also be giving away free lawnmower air fresheners and trimmer line while stocks last, as well as offering some exclusive account sign-up deals. Whether you’re a sole trader, contractor or larger business, there’s a Kramp account for you so please come and say hi if you’d like to know more.”

Lawn mower racing proved to be one of the standout attractions at GroundsFest last year, drawing large crowds and creating a fantastic atmosphere. Its return further reinforces GroundsFest’s commitment to delivering a unique event experience that combines industry-leading exhibitors, live demonstrations, education and entertainment.

GroundsFest Marketing Director Chris Bennett said: “The lawn mower racing was a huge hit with visitors last year and created a real buzz around the showground. It’s one of those features that perfectly captures the spirit of GroundsFest – fun, engaging and bringing people together. We’re delighted to welcome the West Midlands Lawn Mower Racing Association back and grateful to Kramp UK for their continued support.”

With the return of the GroundsFest Cup and the addition of junior racing, visitors can expect even more excitement around the track this year.

Who will be crowned the 2026 GroundsFest Cup champion?

Find out by registering for your free ticket at www.groundsfest.com

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The “Pink Warrior” Campaign for Breast Cancer Awareness

The “Pink Warrior” Campaign for Breast Cancer Awareness

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The “Pink Warrior” Campaign for Breast Cancer Awareness

SCAG in the USA have started a Breast Cancer Awareness scheme, involving Limited Edition machinery specifically produced in the recognisable pink colouring, and with a sum from each machine sold going to Breast Cancer Awareness in the USA.

The “Pink Warrior” Campaign for Breast Cancer Awareness

The “Pink Warrior” Campaign for Breast Cancer Awareness

This message from SCAG as to what lay behind the idea: “Our reasoning is as the result of employees, employees’ family members and friends being affected by breast cancer, and a combined recognition that we as a company can contribute to the efforts to aid those affected and help fund research to try ending this terrible disease”.

Here in the UK we at STM, because of a personal involvement, are also going to follow this incentive.

In addition, the STM management have chosen to offer a Pink Warrior machine in a Prize Draw, with tickets being available using a QR code our website, promotional literature and magazine adverts.

From Phillipa Mason, wife of Dominic Mason, the STM CEO: “I am incredibly touched by Dominic’s generosity in this campaign. We went through a very difficult time when I had breast cancer; we owe such a lot to Cancer Research UK and we are pleased to have an opportunity to demonstrate our thanks”

All proceeds from this STM Prize Draw will be going directly to Cancer Research specifically for Breast Cancer research.

The tickets will be £5.00 and the Draw is to be at SALTEX, 11th – 12th November, Stand QO60.

Website www.st-mach.com

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New HQ opens as Wildwood Machinery gears up for growth

New HQ opens as Wildwood Machinery gears up for growth

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New HQ opens as Wildwood Machinery gears up for growth

Wildwood Machinery – the groundcare arm of the Bastian Group, which comprises commercial property, sports, leisure and hospitality businesses across Hampshire – has formally opened the business’s brand-new headquarters at Fair Oak, near Winchester.

New HQ opens as Wildwood Machinery gears up for growth

New HQ opens as Wildwood Machinery gears up for growth

“The new headquarters is an important part of our growth plan,” says Managing Director James Bastian. “We have a team of top-class mechanics supporting our manufacturer partners, and these new headquarters ensure that we can continue to provide all of our clients and partners with the very best service.”

The 5-acre site comprises offices; 200 square metres of brand-new showroom space for tractors, mowers, forestry equipment and other accessories, and state-of-the-art workshops designed and equipped to support Wildwood’s mechanics with everything they need. Its location – adjacent to East Horton Golf Club, also owned by the Bastian Group – means that clients can see equipment in action, and results in real-time.

Wildwood’s partners include manufacturers of outdoor power equipment through to the latest in robotics, precision mowing, turfcare lighting systems and sustainable fuels. This, in turn, enables the company to service a broad range of groundcare clients including community and elite sports clubs across golf, football and cricket, schools and colleges, Local Authorities and large estates.

Wildwood Machinery launched in 2022 as an extension of the Bastian Group’s existing interests. With a number of new business opportunities in the pipeline, Managing Director James Bastian says Wildwood has solid foundations for sustainable growth.

“With all of the infrastructure in place, we’re confident we can bring real value to any client looking for a groundcare equipment supplier backed by world-class repair and servicing, as well as great employment opportunities in Hampshire.”

Wildwood Machinery – the bigger picture

Wildwood Machinery is part of the Bastian Group, which encompasses commercial property, land management, sports, leisure, hospitality and groundcare interests across Hampshire.

The group was founded by Managing Director James Bastian’s grandfather, who first came to England as a serving US soldier in World War II and later acquired faming land in Hampshire. The family business expanded into butchery, land development and eventually the construction of East Horton Golf Club, developing it into a 45-hole club complete with clubhouse, hospitality and events facilities.

Click here for the full story of the Bastian Group.

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TurfTech set for biggest year yet as industry support continues to grow

TurfTech set for biggest year yet as industry support continues to grow

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TurfTech set for biggest year yet as industry support continues to grow

TurfTech 2026 is set to be the biggest edition yet, with growing industry support, increasing visitor numbers, and an expanded line-up of partners ahead of this year’s event on 1 and 2 October at the American Express Stadium in Brighton.

TurfTech set for biggest year yet as industry support continues to grow

TurfTech set for biggest year yet as industry support continues to grow

TurfTech continues to attract grounds teams, industry experts, manufacturers, and suppliers from across the continent for two days of insight, innovation, networking, and knowledge sharing.

At its heart, TurfTech shines a spotlight on the professionals who make elite sports possible. By bringing together grounds teams from leading clubs alongside the companies driving innovation in turf management, the event creates a platform where achievements can be recognised, ideas exchanged, and valuable industry connections formed.

The event has grown significantly since its launch. The inaugural TurfTech welcomed 170 attendees, rising to 320 the following year. This October, approximately 470 industry professionals are expected to attend, reflecting the increasing demand for an event dedicated specifically to sports turf professionals.

A major factor behind that growth has been the continued support of industry-leading partners. This year’s Platinum Partners include Stogger Turf Care, DLF, Covermaster, Origin Amenity Solutions, FlexGrass, Infinicut, Raw Stadia, and Sports & Stadia. They are joined by Gold Partners TurfCoach, ICL, Net World Sports, Labosport, IAGE, Wessex International and GrassMax, Howardson Group, and HelvaTerra, alongside a strong line-up of Silver, Bronze, outdoor exhibitors, and event partners.

Visitors can look forward to an extensive educational programme featuring 23 presentations delivered by some of the most respected names in sports turf management. The sessions will cover key topics facing the industry today, from emerging technologies and innovation to practical experiences from leading grounds teams operating at the highest level of the game.

However, TurfTech is about much more than presentations.

Some of the event’s most valuable moments happen away from the stage, as grounds professionals share experiences, discuss common challenges, and learn from one another. For many attendees, the relationships and conversations developed during the event continue long after the final session has ended.

Grounds teams remain at the centre of everything TurfTech does. Every attendee is personally invited, with accommodation, food, and refreshments provided throughout the two-day event. The aim is to create an environment where professionals can focus entirely on learning, networking, and engaging with their peers.

As a way of giving something back to the people at the heart of the industry, TurfTech will also host a special raffle draw on 2 October.

With record attendance expected, an unrivalled educational programme, and support from some of the industry’s leading companies, TurfTech 2026 is shaping up to be another landmark event for the sports turf sector.

The event takes place on 1 and 2 October at the American Express Stadium in Brighton.

Find out more by visiting https://turftechsummit.com/

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Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year 2026 finalists announced

Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year 2026 finalists announced

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Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year 2026 finalists announced 

The British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA) has announced the 10 hopefuls in with a shot at claiming the top prizes at the Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year Awards 2026.

Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year 2026 finalists announced

Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year 2026 finalists announced

The nominees, split between the Student Greenkeeper of the Year and Young Student Greenkeeper of the Year categories, represent golf clubs and colleges from across the country.

Launched in 1989, the awards, sponsored by Toro and Reesink Turfcare, have long recognised and rewarded some of the most promising talents in the industry, with many finalists going on to enjoy stellar careers.

The 2026 awards will take place at Rockliffe Hall in County Durham from 8-10 September, when the finalists will compete in a series of challenges designed to test their technical knowledge and passion for the greenkeeping profession.

BIGGA’s Head of Professional Development Deb Burnett said: “These awards continue to showcase the breadth of talent coming through the greenkeeping industry, and this year’s finalists are another outstanding group.

“Whether they are at the beginning of their careers or have already taken on significant responsibility within their teams, they have shown the commitment, knowledge and ambition that will help drive the profession forward.”

The Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year winner’s prize includes enrolment in an internationally recognised 10-week turf management remote study course at The Winter Turf School (University of Massachusetts), a one-week placement at a prestigious golf course in the UK or overseas, and an all-expenses-paid trip to Toro HQ in the United States.

“This year’s Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year Awards attracted an impressive number of entries, and the quality of submissions was high, making the judging process more competitive than ever. As a result, those who have secured a place in the finals have achieved something truly noteworthy and should be congratulated for standing out among such a strong field of candidates.

“We are excited to bring the finalists together at Rockliffe Hall this September, a prestigious venue and valued Toro customer, for what promises to be a memorable and inspiring final.”

Gillian Haverson, Marketing and Communications Manager, Reesink UK, award sponsor.

The victor in the Young category will also enjoy a one-week placement and the US visit, along with a trip to Continue to Learn at BTME.

The runners-up in each category will also receive generous prizes, as will the people who endorse the winners.

Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year finalists

  • Ruth Etches, first assistant greenkeeper at Trentham Golf Club and student at Myerscough College
  • Nick McEley, deputy head course manager at Milngavie Golf Club and student at Gosta Training
  • Jake Rose, assistant greenkeeper at Alwoodley Golf Club and student at Myerscough College
  • Toby Smith, deputy course manager at Redlibbets Golf Club and student at Hadlow College
  • Ben Young, head greenkeeper at Morpeth Golf Club and student at Myerscough College

Toro Young Student Greenkeeper of the Year finalists

  • Finn Cluett, apprentice greenkeeper at Aspley Guise Golf Club and student at Oaklands College
  • Lottie Fosten, assistant greenkeeper at Wentworth Golf Club and student at Myerscough College
  • Archie Raynham, apprentice greenkeeper at Essendon Country Club and student at Oaklands
  • Tyler Rogers, apprentice greenkeeper at Taymouth Golf Club Ltd and student at Askham Bryan College

Sam Wells, apprentice greenkeeper at Isle Purbeck Golf Club and student at Myerscough College

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