Aquatrols Europe appoints new distribution

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Aquatrols Europe appoints new distribution: Aquatrols Europe Ltd is pleased to announce that we have entered into a strategic agreement with Grashobber, who operate in Germany and Austria. Effective 1st October 2024, Grashobber has been appointed to distribute our EU portfolio of of soil surfactant and nutritional products within the German and Austrian turfgrass market.

“Grasshobbers beliefs, mission statement and commitment to their marketplace perfectly aligns with how we at Aquatrols like to position our product portfolio. We are confident that this long-term partnership will help to provide easy access to Aquatrols products in both Germany and Austria.” – Graham O’Connor, Director of European Business at The Aquatrols Company.

Aquatrols Europe appoints new distribution

Aquatrols Europe appoints new distribution

“Finding solutions has been our mission for many years. But we haven’t had such a diverse range of wetting agents so far. With Aquatrols, we now have a partner at our side who has the most experience in this topic, which will become increasingly important in the future.

We are proud of this and look forward to offering our customers the best product solutions in the field of soil moisture management solutions.” – Heiko Remmel, Founder & Managing Director of Grashobber GmbH

Grashobber finds sustainable solutions for the variety of challenges faced by greenkeepers and turf managers, accompanies customers and advises on their implementation in practice. Since its foundation in 2007, Grashobberhas stood for nature-conscious turf care that uses less nitrogen and, if possible, does not require any plant protection measures.

Grashobber’s customers are greenkeepers and managers of sports turf surfaces, those responsible for public greenery and private lawn professionals. The Grashobber mission: sensible, resource-saving lawn care, in harmony with nature.

More than 60 years ago, Aquatrols introduced the world’s first commercially available soil wetting agent. Since creating an entirely new product category to address water management challenges and opportunities, the company has remained a top innovator and producer of high-performance soil surfactants and related technologies. Aquatrols is the world leader in the development of cutting-edge soil surfactants and other specialty technologies used in the professional turf, ornamental, and agricultural industries. Aquatrols has committed itself to changing the way the world grows by developing and supplying innovative products and solutions for sustainably managing soil, water, and plant interactions.

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A decade of grassroots pitch improvement

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A decade of grassroots pitch improvement: Over the last ten years, the GMA’s skilled team of regional pitch advisors has been working with grassroots sports clubs to raise the standards of sports surfaces and train volunteers.

In that time, almost 50,000 pitches have been improved across grassroots football, cricket, rugby league and union.

A decade of grassroots pitch improvement

A decade of grassroots pitch improvement

The programme has worked with more than 12,500 clubs and 14,500 volunteers.

The Pitch Advisory Service, formerly the Grounds and Natural Turf Improvement Programme, was launched in 2014 and is funded by Sport England and the Football Foundation, working in association with the FA, ECB, RFL and RFU.

Jason Booth leads the Pitch Advisory Service, he says: “This is a brilliant example of sporting bodies working together to raise the standards of sports surfaces and the understanding of sports turf management practices among grassroots sports clubs across England.

“There has never been more pressure on pitches. Whether that’s the effect of more extreme weather caused by climate change, or more demand as a greater and more diverse range of people want to play sport.

“We all want more people playing – it brings so many health and wellbeing benefits. To enable that, we need to make sure our grassroots pitches are properly maintained – grounds are literally the foundation of sport. We need to recognise that, value grounds teams, and invest in them.”

One of the clubs that have benefitted from the Pitch Advisory Service is the Ashton Bears Rugby Club in Wigan.

The rugby league outfit, which hosts a total of 25 men’s, women’s, and children’s teams, had been hampered by an unstable pitch that frequently became waterlogged throughout the season.

“Before support from the Pitch Advisory Service, our pitches would regularly have to close for player safety. One surface was only playable for three months of the year” says Club Secretary, Mark Webster.

The Pitch Advisory Service team carried out an assessment and made a number of recommendations, including reducing the height of the cut to 40mm from 70mm and to increase the cutting frequency to weekly. Decompaction, sand topdressing, weed killing, and overseeding were also recommended. Funding was secured to install a drainage solution for the pitches.

“We’re incredibly grateful for the support we received. It’s truly transformed our facilities at Bear Park. We now have some of the most resilient pitches in the area – staying open when others have had to close” Mark continues.

“Our girls’ teams can play concurrently and both men’s open-age teams can play at home. We host up to eight games on a Sunday. We’ve also been able to expand to create new women’s teams, something which previously was impossible due to the lack of capacity on the old pitches.”

Building on the success so far, the Pitch Advisory Service continues to offer support to grassroots clubs.

Any club in England looking for support can contact the Pitch Advisory Service to find out more: www.thegma.org.uk/services/pitch-advisory-service

There are also a host of free resources available with the Grounds Management Toolkit, essential grounds maintenance resources for volunteers from the GMA: https://resources.thegma.org.uk

The Grounds Management Framework is a good place to start to consider the surface quality a club is aiming for, and the investment and skills needed to get there: https://thegma.org.uk/GMF

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Fleet from Toro brings boost in productivity

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Fleet from Toro brings boost in productivity: Forres Golf Club in Moray, Scotland has gone all-in on Toro with a small fleet to optimise operations and do more with its experienced team of four. 

Before committing to a five-year hire purchase deal with Reesink Turfcare which allows the club to upgrade its machines regularly, Forres was using mowers from two different brands with mixed results across its 18-hole course.

Fleet from Toro brings boost in productivity

Fleet from Toro brings boost in productivity

Now, with the Toro Reelmaster 5010-H, two Greensmaster TriFlex 3400 and Workman MDX, Head Greenkeeper Ross Macleod is seeing improvements in productivity and operations and receiving compliments from members noticing the difference.

One of the reasons for the increase in productivity is how fast and convenient it is to change the cutting units in the Greensmaster TriFlex says Ross: “With the TriFlex, we can easily swap the cutting units without tools, quickly switching from greens to tees units to mow the different areas of the course. Previously, we were experiencing cutting inconsistencies due to using different machines and having to fine-tune the height of cut every time which led to excessive time wasting.

“Since using Toro, we’ve been far more productive. We can consistently mow multiple times without having to adjust the units. The set-up efficiency means we have finally freed up time because the team is spending less time in the sheds setting up the machines and has more time to be outside improving the course. We’re now getting round to doing all those small jobs that always seemed to be delayed, such as tidying up the bunkers and pathways.”

Ross has been at Forres for 29 years and as he and the team undertake a new rough management programme, he’s been particularly happy with the fuel efficiency provided by the Toro Reelmaster 5010-H.

He says: “Before we purchased the Reelmaster 5010-H, we used to cut the grass wall to wall, mowing all the roughs and fairways every week. Now, we are simply thinning out the roughs, allowing for the growth of wildflowers which enables us to cut less often and save manpower, man hours and fuel, which is just better in every way. The fact that the machine is a hybrid brings even more fuel-savings and its quality of cut really is outstanding.”

“All in all, we’re very happy with our new Toro machines,” Ross concludes. “They are elevating the quality of mowing, are incredibly comfortable to use, don’t require much maintenance and are helping us do much more with the same small team. What’s even better is it’s not just us noticing, the members have noticed the difference Toro has brought across the course, too.”

Discover how Toro’s technology could benefit your course by calling distributor Reesink Turfcare at 01480 226800, emailing info@reesinkturfcare.co.uk or visiting reesinkturfcare.co.uk.

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Good GKB deliveries come in three’s

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Good GKB deliveries come in three’s: A trio of GKB Machines have been installed at SCHLOSS Roxburghe Championship Golf Course, as part of major ongoing investment into the club and wider estate.

After being delivered by dealer Thomas Sherriff & Co in the summer of 2024, the SP100, SPM300 and GKB Combiseeder were put straight to task by Golf Course Manager Ross Ovens, as he and his team of 13 completed autumn renovations on greens, tees and approaches.

Good GKB deliveries come in three’s

Good GKB deliveries come in three’s

The Roxburghe is nestled in the heart of the Scottish Borders and is consistently ranked within the Top 10 Inland Courses in Scotland. Designed by the internationally renowned golf course architect Dave Thomas, the Par-72 parkland course and wider complex was sold in 2018 – with the new owners investing heavily in the on-site hotel, spa, lodges and golf course. “The property has changed massively, meaning we needed to invest in our greenkeeping equipment to produce the quality needed” comments Ross.

“In speaking with Dougie Archibald at Thomas Sherriff’s and GKB’s Tom Shinkins we really liked the fact that GKB is a family-owned business, and this feeds down into the level of care and detail put into their robust range of equipment.” Part of the fleet package, and replacing existing topdressers, was an SP100 and SPM300 from the GKB Sandspreader range. “These two machines work hand in hand brilliantly, giving us the versatility to dress greens as well as using the larger machine on the fairways. The SPM300 with material handler we’ve found particularly useful for topping up bunkers or loading material into the SP100 quickly and easily.”

He continues, “Our SP100 is mounted onto our John Deere Gator, and we have retrofitted this with a GPS system which has dramatically improved the accuracy and efficiency of topdressing operations. It gives us both the spread and quality we are looking for.”

Also delivered was a CS160. “With fewer chemicals available, and a desire to improve our sustainability credentials, it is more important than ever that we have a good overseeding programme in place. We didn’t have a seeder previously, so we demonstrated various models and opted for the GKB Combiseeder because – as a dimple seeder – we found it gave us better germination. This will be pivotal in our programme moving forwards as we try to introduce better cultivars into our surfaces, making us more resistant to disease and thereby lowering our reliance on chemicals.”

“The trio have recently played a big part in our autumn renovation works. We put down a good application and even distribution of sand, followed by overseeding as we pursue the ongoing improvement of our sward on the high wear areas of the course.” Ross concludes, “We’ve been delighted with the results we’ve achieved and the support we’ve had from Tom and from Thomas Sherriff’s before, during and after the purchase process.”

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Polaris elevates the best-selling side-by-side

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Polaris elevates the best-selling side-by-side: Polaris Off Road has launched a range of owner-inspired upgrades to its class-leading full-size RANGER lineup, which is now shipping to dealerships across Europe.

Building on the already best-selling side-by-side in the industry, the 2025 RANGER lineup features a redesigned front end and new front bumper for added robustness, an upgraded Gen 2 transmission for smooth and consistent shifting, and intuitive accessories for added rider convenience and an immersive ride experience.

Polaris elevates the best-selling side-by-side

Polaris elevates the best-selling side-by-side

“We constantly use our customers’ feedback to drive improvements that truly matter to them and make the best-selling side-by-side even better. The results of that are on display with the full-size RANGER offering for 2025,” said Reid Wilson, Polaris Vice President and General Manager of Off Road. “Whether it’s tackling a tough task or enjoying a trail, the new 2025 full-size RANGER lineup is stacked with quality enhancements and upgraded features to deliver more capability, durability, and comfort as the number one selling off-road brand.”

Notable upgrades for 2025 include:

  • RANGER XP 1000 and RANGER Diesel have a bold, restyled front-end design, with new bumper and grille for added robustness.
  • RANGER XP 1000 models have an upgraded electric power steering system with enhanced control and responsiveness, especially at low speeds.
  • RANGER 1000 and XP 1000 models feature an upgraded Gen 2 transmission that reduces shifting effort by up to 50% to enable easier and smoother shifting and two-times longer service intervals (2,000 miles / 200 hours).
  • New ultra-bright LED headlights now feature on the RANGER 1000 Nordic Pro Edition and Diesel models for enhanced brightness that help riders extend their days.
  • Tractor-homologated RANGER XP 1000 models see an increase to power as well as the introduction of drive modes – riders can choose between work, standard and performance mode to control the throttle based on the task at hand.
  • Redesigned cab nets with a new single-latch connection point for easier entry and exit.
  • Integrated speed limiting is now a standard feature across the RANGER XP 1000 range – especially helpful for low-speed tasks like spraying or mowing.
  • New accessories such as an upper front brushguard for enhanced durability and premium look and a new hood rack.
  • Roofs available for RANGER CREW models now feature a new design with enhanced sealing.
  • JBL® audio upgrade kits provide excellent sound quality and premium vehicle integration for a fully immersive experience, including a JBL head unit with in-dash speakers and upgrades with rear speakers and a subwoofer.
  • Additional accessories include integrated bumper lighting for off-road use, a new reverse light harness will automatically turn on rear accessory lighting when the vehicle is in reverse or by the flip of a switch when the vehicle is parked.

In addition to the new upgrades, the 2025 full-size RANGER lineup continues to provide the features riders have come to expect from Polaris, including class-leading 454kg box capacity and 1,136kg towing to carry large loads in fewer trips, maximising overall productivity, as well as on-demand All-Wheel Drive (AWD) that automatically engages four-wheel drive when traction loss is detected for confidence in rough terrain, and reverts back to two-wheel drive when traction is regained.

The latest RANGER lineup is Polaris’ most comfortable UTVs to date with the option of adding a full cab, complete with roof, tip-out windshield and wiper, rear panel, crank doors and in-cab heater. Full cab accessories for RANGER allow riders to seal out the elements and extend their work day. Whether it’s a shady respite from the summer sun, or protection from the harsh weather of winter, riders can work year-round in complete comfort.

2025 Full-Size RANGER Lineup 

Details, homologation and colour availability for the full-size RANGER model lineup across EMEA are as follows:

2025 RANGER XP 1000 Premium – Blue Slate or Polaris Pursuit Camo [MD / ZUG / Tractor T1a / Tractor T1b / T1b ABS]

2025 RANGER CREW XP 1000 PREMIUM – Blue Slate [MD / Tractor T1b]

2025 RANGER XP 1000 Nordic Pro Edition – Black Pearl [MD / ZUG / Tractor T1a / Tractor T1b]

Setting the bar for owner-inspired upgrades and class-leading capabilities, the 2025 RANGER XP 1000 now features a restyled front end with new bumper and grille for added durability, along with upgraded transmission for 50% easier shifting, upgraded electric power steering system and two-times longer service intervals. On Tractor-homologated models, power has been increased along with rider-selectable throttle control settings. New for 2025, XP 1000 features a number of rider comfort upgrades, including redesigned cab nets for easier entry and exit, and integrated speed limiting features. The 2025 RANGER XP 1000 models come in two colour choices – Blue Slate or Polaris Pursuit Camo – as well as Nordic Pro edition in Black Pearl which features a in-cab heater and Polaris HD winch fitted as standard.

2025 RANGER 1000 EPS – Granite Grey [MD / ZUG / Tractor T1a / Tractor T1b]

2025 RANGER CREW 1000 EPS – Granite Grey [MD / Tractor T1b]

2025 RANGER 1000 EPS Nordic Pro Edition – Black Pearl [Tractor T1a / Tractor T1b]

The new-and-improved 2025 RANGER 1000 models continue to enhance performance and durability, setting a strong foundation for the 2025 full-size RANGER lineup. In addition to the upgraded transmission, two-times longer service intervals and redesigned cab nets, the RANGER 1000 Nordic Pro Edition now comes standard with ultra-bright LED headlights. Available in Granite Gray and Nordic Pro Edition in Black Pearl.

2025 RANGER Diesel – Sage Green [MD / Tractor T1b]

2025 RANGER Diesel Deluxe – Super Graphite [Tractor T1b]

To round out the lineup, Polaris updates its bestselling RANGER Diesel model with a new look. Both the standard Diesel and Diesel Deluxe models have a restyled front end design and bumper for even more durability, along with ultra-bright LED headlights that give the model a premium finish whilst enhancing visibility from dusk to dawn.

The 2025 full-size RANGER lineup is now available in dealers across Europe.  

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