Richmond add Ventrac for versatility and efficiency

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Richmond add Ventrac for versatility and efficiency: The Richmond Golf Club is a 104 acre oasis of calm, only 9 miles from Central London. It borders Richmond Park, one of London’s 8 Royal Parks, and shares much of the wildlife in the area. The course was originally designed by Tom Dunn and has since been extensively updated to a par 70, 6091 yard course. The opulent early-Georgian club house dates back to 1725.

Les Howkins has been Course Manager for just over 17 years. He has a team of 11 including a full time mechanic and was BIGGA chairman from 2015 to 2019.

Richmond add Ventrac for versatility and efficiency

Richmond add Ventrac for versatility and efficiency

Les had been introduced to Ventrac some years ago after Assistant Deputy Course Manager, Chris Browett, had seen it exhibited at BTME Harrogate and thought it might be a useful alternative to some of the machines in their fleet. More recently some of the fleet needed replacing and a Ventrac demo persuaded Les that it had a place at Richmond. “It’s replaced an old out front rider-rotary and a worn out tractor mounted rotorvator” commented Les. But it’s also allowed Les to add new attachments to complete tasks the team could not easily tackle before. “I purchased the brush which is going to be used for carpark and driveway cleaning” said Les. He added, “The long-term view is it’s going to fit into a different methodology going forward”.

Les’ s new methodology includes experimenting with robotic mowers to take care of the rough on two holes. If that works he says he will perhaps “expand the feet” but won’t need a wide area mower. That’s where the Ventrac will continue to fit in future. “We’ll buy the contour deck to deal with areas the robots can’t. I can have a fleet of robots and a Ventrac for less money than one wide area mower” said Les. He may also consider the MR Reel Mowers so one power unit can cover many needs but at less cost.

Additional attractions for Les are the low ground pressure and the wide variety of attachments including one, which Les has purchased, the DC Soil Cultivator which has 4 main components; cultivator tines pulverise the soil, separator tines sift and bury stones and debris, a distribution blade spreads sifted soil evenly and a perforated roller creates a pocketed surface to accept grass seed. “The day we saw that demonstrated it was pouring. The golf course was shut, which doesn’t happen very often. We drove the machine out and the wheels made less mess than my feet. It was unbelievable!” exclaims Les. The Soil Cultivator has been used to return woodchip tee-to-fairway pathways on the front nine back to irrigated grass. Les is delighted with the results as are his members. He will tackle the back nine in the winter. “Its quite a big project” said Les, “Having the right equipment is vital, really”

Les also commented on the HQ Tough Cut mower, another attachment he purchased. “It’s manoeuvrability is brilliant” he said. The Tough Cut mower is designed to tackle those areas that tend to get neglected and like all Ventrac attachments can be mounted on the tractor within minutes by one operator.

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Determination, teamwork and Johnsons overcomes destruction

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Determination, teamwork and Johnsons overcomes destruction: It’s every greenkeeper’s worst nightmare – to receive a call informing them of vandalism on the course. That nightmare was the unfortunate reality for David Byron of Thorndon Park who returned from BTME 2025 to discover the ‘destruction’ of six greens, three tees and numerous fairways.

With sheer determination, a concerted team effort and the outstanding recovery demonstrated by mixtures from across the Johnsons Sports Seed range, the surfaces were fit and ready for club championships just a few short months later.

Determination, teamwork and Johnsons overcomes destruction

Determination, teamwork and Johnsons overcomes destruction

The only club in Essex to make the England Top 100 list, David has been at Thorndon Park since 2008 and has held the position of Course Manager for the last five. “Being in Harrogate when the news broke of our misfortune was both good and bad” he explains. “While I was not in a position to personally assess the damage the quadbikes had caused, I was completely overwhelmed by the support and offers of assistance I received from the greenkeeping community. I decided to take advantage of as many extra pairs of hands as I could when I returned to clear the greens and managed to get hold of a lot of materials on overnight shipments – the club, our members and the whole industry went above and beyond in our hour of need, and we’re incredibly grateful.”

David and his team of nine set about re-levelling and restoring the affected greens one at a time, sacrificing the club’s putting green to bring the surfaces back into play as swiftly as possible. “We took our time to blend the turfed areas in with micro-coring, topdressing and overseeding with Johnsons J All Bent and J Ultrafine Rye Green.”

“We’ve used Johnsons seed here for many years and it just works for us on all areas of the course” says David. “I consulted with DLF’s Craig Spooner in the wake of the vandalism and we agreed on an overseeding strategy combining the two mixtures – using the quick-establishing ryegrass as a nursery plant, then going back to favouring the bent grasses. The photos and reaction we’ve had from the players at our recent club championship speak volumes for how successful the programme has performed.”

Johnsons J All Bent sets the industry standard for density, sustainability and visual quality. With the inclusion of three top-rated browntop bent cultivars, the mixture delivers a sward tolerant of high wear and close mowing, while the class leading disease resistance also reduces requirements for chemical inputs.

The recovery on the greens has been matched by the performance of Johnsons J Tee and a bespoke dwarf ryegrass mixture, from DLF, on the fairways. “Most of the other damaged areas have bounced back with some regular overseeding and a good dose of TLC!” he adds. “We have to praise the Johnsons mixtures and support from Craig in getting us to where we are today – it’s all part of, what has been, a momentous team effort.”

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GroundsFest’s education programme better than ever

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GroundsFest’s education programme better than ever: GroundsFest 2025 is raising the bar yet again – and this year’s FREE cpd-accredited educational programme is set to be bigger, and more varied than ever before.

With FIVE dedicated seminar theatres, a host of expert speakers, and topics that truly reflect the challenges and opportunities in today’s outdoor spaces, GroundsFest is the go-to destination for professional development – whether you’re in turf, landscaping, horticulture, groundscare, or greenkeeping.

GroundsFest’s education programme better than ever

GroundsFest’s education programme better than ever

Here is a snapshot of what to expect from the education programme:

A Must-Attend for Greenkeepers

The British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA) will be delivering a selection of educational seminars, specially designed for greenkeepers or anyone working in golf course management. BIGGA’s seminars have built a reputation for combining practical insight with thought leadership. Expect expert-led discussions, game-changing ideas, and actionable advice to take your course management to the next level.

Pitchcare Theatre

Tackle key sports turf topics including moisture management, plant growth regulators, and the rise of robotics, along with sessions on employment and biodiversity. These seminars will be delivered by a range of leading sports turf experts.

Lantra Theatre

Lanta will be exploring ‘How industry can collaborate in addressing recruitment and retention’. Acting as session chair, Lantra trustee – Professor John Moverley will set the scene, introduce individual members of the panel and then invite them in turn to speak for about 5 minutes each. The panel has been chosen to draw from different sub sectors to share thoughts and experiences around sector recruitment and retention. After the presentations, John will then invite the audience to make comment and ask questions. In this seminar theatre visitors also can discover what’s changing at BASIS, with essential updates on how training and certification are evolving to support the sector.

The Landscape Theatre

From AI in marketing to urban sustainability, mental health in the trades to wildflower meadows, this theatre brings together real-world business strategies and green innovation. With speakers from Glendale, Blakedown, The Green Partnership and more, these sessions are a must for anyone in landscaping or urban greenspace development.

Hort Week Theatre

Join Hort Week’s Rachael Forsyth and leading horticultural experts for a packed agenda. Topics include integrated weed management with the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, machinery tips, scam prevention, and a lively Horticulture Question Time. Plus, don’t miss the Innovation Awards in this theatre, sponsored by Cramer and Bosch, celebrating the products shaping our industry.

Bowls Seminar Theatre

Dedicated to improving greens and supporting bowls clubs at all levels, this two-day masterclass will offer insider knowledge from top suppliers and provide greenkeepers with actionable takeaways to improve playability and performance. It will feature insights from DLF, Aquatrols, Agrovista Amenity, Dennis, SISIS and KAR UK. From seed selection and fertiliser to machinery and irrigation, these sessions will cover all the essential elements that contribute to a high-performing green. Whether you’re a club volunteer or a full-time professional, this is your chance to learn from the very best in the business.

From sports turf to local authority, estate management to landscaping – GroundsFest’s education programme is tailored to every corner of the industry and it’s completely free to attend.

Register for your FREE tickets at www.groundsfest.com

You can also follow GroundsFest on X, Facebook and Instagram @GroundsFest for much more news, reviews and insightful views

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Cornwall FA’s new grassroots Pitch Improvement Partnership

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Cornwall FA’s new grassroots Pitch Improvement Partnership: Cornwall Football Association is proud to announce a new partnership with Origin Amenity Solutions, a leading UK provider of turf management products, services, and expert advice.

This collaboration aims to transform and elevate the quality of natural grass pitches across the county, offering clubs, schools, and local authorities the opportunity to improve playing surfaces through expert support and cutting-edge solutions.

Cornwall FA's new grassroots Pitch Improvement Partnership

Cornwall FA’s new grassroots Pitch Improvement Partnership

Grassroots football clubs in Cornwall will be able to benefit from a new level of professional support and resources. The partnership with Origin Amenity Solutions will see clubs gain access to top-tier turf management expertise, tailored product solutions, and educational opportunities.

Daniel Greenough, Business Development Manager at Cornwall FA:

“We are really excited to be working with Origin Amenity Solutions; they bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to all things grass pitches and beyond. Our aim is to improve all grass pitches across Cornwall and working closely with Origin Amenity Solutions will help deliver that target. Origin Amenity Solutions have many products and services to enable clubs, partners and operators of grass pitches to improve their surface and pitches. If you want to find out more about funding for grass pitches, Pitch Power and/or Origin Amenity Solutions please contact Cornwall FA at facilities@cornwallfa.com.”

About Origin Amenity Solutions

Origin Amenity Solutions (OAS) is a UK-based company and provider of grassturf and plant health solutions, from growth and protection to appearance and control, incorporating sustainable and environmental solutions within its portfolio. From fertilisers and grass seed to irrigation and soil health diagnostics, OAS is committed to helping grounds managers and turf professionals improve their surfaces year-round.

James Leitch, Area Sales Representative for Origin Amenity Solutions, shared:

“Origin Amenity Solutions is focused on supporting grounds teams through product innovation, education and research and development for continuous improvement in plant health practices. We understand that one-size doesn’t fit all and tailor our product offering and technical advice to individual areas working in partnership with grounds managers to achieve the desired outcome.”

How Clubs Can Benefit

This partnership will open up new pathways for Cornish clubs and facility operators to enhance their natural turf surfaces. Benefits include:

  • Access to expert advice and bespoke pitch improvement plans
  • High-quality products
  • Support in using the PitchPower tool for pitch assessments and improvement tracking
  • Guidance on funding and facility development opportunities

Clubs looking to enhance their pitches can now access tailored support that aligns with the Football Foundation’s Grass Pitch Improvement Programme (GPIP) and related funding schemes.

Get in Touch

For more information about how your club can benefit from this partnership or to discuss funding, assessments, and pitch improvement options, contact:

Cornwall FA: facilities@cornwallfa.com

Origin Amenity Solutions: enquiries@originamenity.com

Website: www.originamenity.com

This partnership marks an exciting step forward for grassroots football in Cornwall, helping to ensure every player has access to high-quality, safe, and sustainable playing surfaces.

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BIGGA announces the FTMI Class of 2025

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BIGGA announces the FTMI Class of 2025: The British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA) and Jacobsen announce the delegates of the FTMI 2025 Future Turf Managers Initiative, a training programme to help talented greenkeeper candidates progress towards head greenkeeper and course manager roles.

FTMI is a hybrid programme of online and in-person education and mentoring. The 2025/2026 schedule begins with face-to-face training at Jacobsen HQ in Ipswich this September, followed by further sessions online during October, November and December. The course concludes with two and a half days of learning at BTME in Harrogate in January 2026.

BIGGA announces the FTMI Class of 2025

BIGGA announces the FTMI Class of 2025

The initiative is designed to give the participants an insight into management skills that they will need as they progress through the ranks in their careers. Topics covered include presentation skills, communication, time management, interview skills, CV writing, stress awareness, budgeting and leadership.

The FTMI Class of 2025 includes the following greenkeepers:

Callum Atkinson – first assistant greenkeeper, The Wilmslow Golf Club

Tod Bannerman – senior greenkeeper, Taymouth Castle Golf Club

Patrick Brown – senior greenkeeper and spray technician, Fulwell Golf Club

George Edwards – deputy head greenkeeper, Walton Heath Golf Club

Alistair Hogg – senior greenkeeper, A&M Fife Golf Club

Alex Hudson – assistant greenkeeper, Sharpley Golf Club

Chris Keeler – deputy course manager, Prestbury Golf Club

Ronan Latham – senior greenkeeper, JCB Golf & Country Club

Toby Long – first assistant greenkeeper, Broadstone Golf Club

Carl Moore – deputy head greenkeeper, Kings Norton Golf Club

William Moore – assistant course manager, Kilworth Springs Golf Club

Euan Polson – first assistant greenkeeper, Royal Aberdeen Golf Club

Phillip Shields – first assistant greenkeeper, The Blackwood Golf Club

Greg Smith – first assistant greenkeeper, The Berkshire Golf Club

John Thornton – irrigation technician, Copt Heath Golf Club

Delegates are assigned to mentor groups throughout the programme. The mentors for this year are all previous FTMI graduates and are course managers Leigh Powell (Windlesham), James Parker (Machrihanish Dunes) and Ben Williams (Royal Cinque Ports).

BIGGA CEO, Jim Croxton, said: “It’s always a thrill to learn of the successful delegates for the Future Turf Managers Initiative as the developmental opportunities they receive and the chance to become an FTMI graduate can turbo-charge careers. I look forward keenly to seeing how the Class of 2025 develop and to meeting them all at Jacobsen HQ in September.

We remain hugely grateful to Textron for supporting this amazing initiative for BIGGA members”.

Nicole Burn, Brand Marketing Director at Jacobsen, said: “We’re proud to support the Future Turf Managers Initiative in partnership with BIGGA. Investing in the development of future leaders in turf management is essential to the growth and sustainability of our industry, and we’re honoured to play a role in that journey”.

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