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Efficiency and safety gains with switch to Aspen Fuel

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Efficiency and safety gains with switch to Aspen Fuel: Having read about the positive experiences of other clubs making the switch, the team at Gloucestershire’s Minchinhampton Golf Club are themselves now discovering the efficiency and safety benefits of Aspen alkylate petrol.

Used across a suite of 2-stroke equipment, club Mechanic Tom Dorey notes the significant reduction in costly faults and breakdowns, while its delivery by the barrel has reduced the time and risks associated with transporting fuel from the forecourt.

Efficiency and safety gains with switch to Aspen Fuel

Efficiency and safety gains with switch to Aspen Fuel

Minchinhampton comprises of 36-holes at the New Course site along with a further 18-holes at the historic Old Course – established in 1889 and situated 4 miles away on SSSI common land, managed in partnership with the National Trust. The third, the parkland Avening Course, has been used on multiple occasions as an Open Qualifying venue. Looking after the maintenance is a team of 17 greenkeepers who, alongside Mechanic Tom, keep the large machinery fleet and busy courses in tip-top condition.

“I was familiar with Aspen Fuel from personal experience but was seeing more articles in the press about facilities switching over and felt it was worth exploring” explains Tom. “We spoke with some other golf clubs and then met with Aspen’s Roy Narbey at BTME in 2025 who arranged a trial of Aspen-2 for us. The rest, as they say, is history and we’ve recently just taken delivery of our second barrel.”

Being virtually free from ethanol, aromatics and benzene Aspen alkylate petrol presents a 99% cleaner fuel when compared with traditional pump fuel. The significantly reduced emissions not only benefit the health and safety of the operator but also contributes to increased sustainability standards, helping the team to meet the courses environmental responsibilities.

Like other Aspen users, Minchinhampton quickly discovered the immediate benefits but were pleasantly surprised by the further ‘wins’ that came from the switch. “The difference was notable almost immediately. The team all commented on the better working environment when using tools such as backpack blowers and hedgecutters and reported the reduction in fumes and headaches as soon as we switched.” Tom adds, “In the workshop, servicing of the equipment is now much simpler. I haven’t had to spend time repairing or replacing gummed up carburettors, saving us money and enhancing the overall lifespan of the engines and the equipment.”

Aspen-2’s pre-mixed formula has also eliminated issues with incorrect mixture ratios. “Convenience has been another big plus point, with the fuel readily available on site, pre-mixed so there’s no risk of issues associated with incorrect fuel and oil ratios.”

“The support from Roy throughout the trial and in getting us up and running has also been brilliant. He gave us lots of hints and tips for correct pump operation and getting the most from our equipment.” He concludes, “The experience has been incredibly positive and eventually we hope to extend our use to Aspen-4 for the cleaner running of some of our larger equipment.”

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Burnham & Berrow and Royal Aberdeen claim BIGGA Awards

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Burnham & Berrow and Royal Aberdeen claim BIGGA Awards: The British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA) has revealed the winners of the BIGGA Awards 2026, recognising outstanding achievement, innovation and commitment across the greenkeeping profession.

Harrogate’s Royal Hall hosted the BIGGA Celebration sponsored by Bernhard Academy on the opening night of the BIGGA Turf Management Exhibition (BTME), with Sky Sports presenter Sarah Stirk announcing the winners.

Burnham & Berrow and Royal Aberdeen claim BIGGA Awards

Burnham & Berrow and Royal Aberdeen claim BIGGA Awards

The prize for Championship Greenkeeping Performance of the Year with Bernhard & Company was awarded to Burnham & Berrow, while the Greenkeeping Project of the Year award with Price Turfcare went to Royal Aberdeen on a memorable evening celebrating excellence across the profession.

Burnham & Berrow’s award recognised the team’s exceptional response to an unprecedented challenge ahead of Final Open Qualifying. With just eight weeks to act, the team delivered innovative solutions after deliberate chemical vandalism damaged multiple greens.

Working closely with The R&A agronomy team and industry partners, a tightly managed recovery programme culminated in full turf replacement, with independent testing confirming championship standards were achieved in time for the event.

“What a job the team did – not only my team, but the whole club,” said retired Course Manager Richard Whyman. “Twenty of the 27 greens were damaged and it was hard to see the grass dying in front of you.

“With it being my last tournament, it was difficult for me, but I pulled myself together and The R&A were incredibly supportive.”

Royal Aberdeen was recognised for a long-term project to safeguard the future of the historic Balgownie Links. Ongoing coastal erosion prompted a complex reconstruction programme, including new greens, tees and protective infrastructure.

Delivered largely in-house by a small team, the project demanded meticulous planning and adaptability amid challenging weather and tidal pressures, with judges praising the balance between preserving heritage and delivering practical, forward-thinking solutions.

“We know erosion is a big issue – not just for us, but right down the UK coastline – so we’re trying to implement measures to slow that erosion, with contingency plans in place,” said Course Manager Richard Johnstone.

“As for my team, they’re the real heroes in this – I just lead them. They’ve taken on a huge challenge, and I’m very grateful to the club for supporting us.”

The evening also saw BIGGA present its Outstanding Contribution award with Kress to John Millen in recognition of a career that has left a lasting impact on the association and the wider greenkeeping profession.

A highly respected figure within the industry, Millen has devoted decades to supporting education, professional development and the advancement of greenkeeping standards, earning widespread admiration from colleagues across the UK and beyond.

“I really can’t believe this,” said the 85-year-old, who is still working in education but has swapped playing golf for croquet. “Only a week ago I didn’t even know whether I’d be coming tonight – I’ve been here virtually every year. I just want to say thank you to everybody.

“Through greenkeeping, through our associations and through the game itself, for me it’s always been about people who are passionate about golf courses and about working for one another.”

The event also celebrated the incredible finale of an inspiring personal challenge, as Jack Percival bounded onto stage after completing his epic 300-mile run from Epsom. The senior greenkeeper at Royal Automobile Club undertook the run to raise awareness around mental health and funds for Percy’s Homeless Hub and the Greenkeepers Benevolent Fund.

The BIGGA Awards were established to recognise the exceptionally high standards, professionalism and dedication demonstrated by greenkeepers throughout the year. From major championship preparation to ambitious renovation projects and contributions that strengthen the profession, the awards highlight the vital role greenkeepers play in the success and sustainability of the game.

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Bernhard and Company heads to BTME and GCSAA

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Bernhard and Company heads to BTME and GCSAA: Bernhard and Company is preparing for a major few weeks in the industry calendar, with the team set to exhibit at BTME 2026 in Harrogate, England (20-22 January) before heading to Florida, USA for the GCSAA Conference and Trade Show in Orlando (2-5 February).

Across both shows, Bernhard will spotlight the breadth of its offer, combining industry-leading grinding machinery, technology-led turf solutions, and the training and development support of the Bernhard Academy.

Bernhard and Company heads to BTME and GCSAA

Bernhard and Company heads to BTME and GCSAA

“BTME and the GCSAA Conference and Trade Show are two of the most significant events in our calendar,” said Steven Nixon, Managing Director of Bernhard and Company. “They give us the chance to meet the people behind the surfaces, demonstrate the innovation within our grinding machinery range, and show how our wider technology and education offering is supporting performance and long-term sustainability in turf.”

BTME 2026: Harrogate – Hall 5, Stand 534

At BTME, Bernhard and Company will be located in Hall 5 on Stand 534, bringing the latest in its grinding machinery portfolio to Harrogate. On stand, visitors will be able to explore Bernhard’s Express Dual reel and Anglemaster bedknife grinding machines, as well as learn more about the wider suite of solutions available through the company’s distribution network.

Bernhard will also be exhibiting SubAir Systems, alongside Soil Scout and Maya Global software, helping attendees understand how data and decision-making tools can support better surface performance, consistency, and efficiency across the seasons.

The Bernhard Academy team will also be based on the stand throughout the week, offering guidance on training pathways, workshops, and educational support for course teams looking to build skills and capability.

Alongside stand activity, the Bernhard Academy will play an exciting role in BIGGA’s Continue to Learn programme, delivering sold-out sessions at the Bernhard Academy hub at Moortown Golf Club. As part of the BTME programme, Phil Helmn of the Bernhard Academy will also deliver a three-hour class on Monday morning titled “The Art of Managing Up!”. The week will also include a seminar delivered by Phil on the Tuesday of the show, while the Academy will introduce the BIGGA Delegation for 2026 at the Bernhard Reception evening on Monday.

“BTME is a brilliant opportunity to connect education with real-world application,” said Sami Strutt, Education Director at the Bernhard Academy. “Whether it’s our Continue to Learn sessions, supporting turf teams with development opportunities, or launching the BIGGA Delegation’s journey, the focus is on helping people grow their skills and confidence.”

GCSAA Conference & Trade Show: Orlando – Stand 1949 (West Building)

Following BTME, Bernhard and Company will continue its trade show schedule in the United States at the GCSAA Conference and Trade Show, held at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando.

Bernhard can be found on Stand 1949 in the West Building, where the team will be exhibiting once again with Soil Scout, having recently launched the Soil Scout range into the North American market.

As part of the trip, the Bernhard Academy will accompany the BIGGA Delegation to the show, where delegates will experience the educational seminars on offer, take part in site visits to high-profile Florida golf venues, and make the most of the networking opportunities available throughout GCSAA week.

Education will also play a central role at GCSAA, with Phil Helmn delivering a four-hour seminar on Tuesday 3 February titled “Budgeting! Bulletproof Financial Management”. The session is currently sold out, with additional places available via a waiting list.

“The GCSAA Conference and Trade Show is a key moment for us to spend time with superintendents and course teams, and to build on the early momentum behind the Soil Scout launch in North America,” added Steven Nixon.

For more information on Bernhard and Company, the products and solutions it will be exhibiting at both shows, and the Bernhard Academy, view links below:

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Bernhard and Company backs Soil Scout Grandmaster Programme

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Bernhard and Company backs Soil Scout Grandmaster Programme: Following its recent announcement introducing Soil Scout’s real-time underground monitoring technology to the Northern American market, Bernhard and Company is supporting the launch of Soil Scout’s new Grandmaster Programme – a global ambassador initiative designed to recognise and connect the professionals shaping the future of turf management.

The Grandmasters Programme has been created to celebrate the individuals who keep the world’s finest playing surfaces alive. The front-runners whose expertise, innovation and leadership continue to move the industry forward beneath the surface.

Bernhard and Company backs Soil Scout Grandmaster Programme

Bernhard and Company backs Soil Scout Grandmaster Programme

Rather than a traditional ambassador scheme, the programme is built around human expertise, mentorship, and shared learning, bringing together leading turf professionals from different regions into a global community. Grandmasters will plan an active role in sharing real-world insight and experience, helping to advance understanding of soil conditions, root zone health and sustainable turf practices across the industry.

Participants in the programme will commit to long-term collaboration, allowing Soil Scout to work closely with them to track data, gather insight, and amplify authentic customer voices through global channels. In return, Grandmasters will gain early access to new technology, exclusive events, and opportunities to connect with like-minded professionals worldwide.

The first four confirmed Grandmasters include:

  • Brent Downs MG, CGCS – The Otter Creek Golf Club and Harrison Lake Country Club
  • Andrew Northeim – Columbus Crew
  • Rodney McKeown – Sentosa Golf Club
  • Janne Lehto MG, CGCS – Golf Hirsala Golf

Further ambassadors are expected to be confirmed in the coming months, including representatives from leading US venues, as the programme continues to expand.

“Following our introduction of Soil Scout to the North American market, it’s exciting to see the brand launch a programme that puts people, not just technology, at the centre of progress,” said Steven Nixon, Managing Director at Bernhard and Company. “The Grandmasters Programme recognises the professionals who are shaping best practice in turf management and creates a platform for them to learn from one another on a global scale.”

Jalmari Talola, CEO of Soil Scout, said: “This programme is about recognising the people who move our industry forward. These are professionals whose knowledge, curiosity, and leadership influence not only the surfaces they manage, but the wider turf community around them. By connecting them and supporting their work with real-time underground data, we’re creating a platform for shared learning and long-term progress.”

The launch of the Grandmasters Programme reflects a shared belief between Bernhard and Company and Soil Scout that meaningful progress in turf management comes from combining data-driven insight with real-world experience, collaboration, and mentorship.

Turf professionals in Europe and North America will also have the opportunity to learn more about Soil Scout and its technology at both BTME 2026 in Harrogate, England and the 2026 GCSAA Conference and Trade Show in Florida – at which Bernhard and Company will be showcasing Soil Scout.

To find out more about Bernhard and Company’s market-leading grinding machinery and solutions, visit: www.bernhard.co.uk

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Bernhard and Company strengthens elite stadium pitches across Morocco

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Bernhard and Company strengthens elite stadium pitches across Morocco: Bernhard and Company has reinforced its position at the forefront of elite sports turf technology with the installation of SubAir Systems at three of Morocco’s most iconic football stadiums, supporting pitch performance during one of the most high-profile international tournaments on the football calendar.

SubAir Systems have now been installed at:

  • Grand Stade de Tangier – Tangier
  • Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium – Rabat
  • Stade Mohammed V – Casablanca
Bernhard and Company strengthens elite stadium pitches across Morocco

Bernhard and Company strengthens elite stadium pitches across Morocco

The installations form part of a wider strategy by stadium operators to ensure consistent, resilient, and controllable playing surfaces, capable of performing under intense scheduling, climatic pressure and global scrutiny.

With Morocco set to host a major international football tournament, pitch performance has become a critical focus. Heavy rainfall, tight turnaround times, and high expectations from players, broadcasters, and governing bodies place significant demands on natural turf systems.

For the turf teams, drainage and moisture control have been central priorities. “Drainage is absolutely critical for us,” explained Taha Hassoune, Pitch Manager at Stade Mohammed V in Casablanca. “In the past, we’ve experienced periods where rainfall overwhelmed traditional drainage systems, and that directly impacts firmness, playability, and preparation time.”

Hassoune added: “Installing SubAir Systems has made a huge difference. By having the ability to pull moisture down and out through the rootzone, we’re encouraging deeper, more fibrous roots.”

Steve Wilson, Bernhard and Company’s Global Business Development Manager for Turf Technologies, commented: “It has been fantastic to work alongside Taha and the other pitch maintenance teams to install the SubAir Systems and see them make improvements using the technology. If the pitches in Morocco become too soft, the SubAir allows them to dry the turf and regain firmness, which is a crucial element for football tournaments.”

He added: “The world’s best stadiums are investing in SubAir because it gives them control over moisture, firmness, recovery, and consistency, exactly when it matters most. In preparation for major international tournaments, there’s no margin for error, so having the safety net of SubAir is a huge advantage.”

Alongside SubAir, the stadiums are using Soil Scout sensors (distributed by Bernhard and Company in the UK, Ireland and more recently North America) to monitor moisture and temperature levels, helping the teams understand changes within the profile to allow for proactive response.

The projects were delivered in collaboration with Sports Turf Maroc, one of Morocco’s leading pitch builders, recognised for their willingness to innovate and experiment with new technologies.

To learn more about SubAir Systems, subsurface control, head online to: https://bernhard.co.uk/products/subair/

To find out more about Bernhard and Company and its full range of product offerings, head to: https://bernhard.co.uk/

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