Tag Archive for: As

New AS 990 Tahr RC rotary mower enters series production

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New AS 990 Tahr RC rotary mower enters series production: Series production of the new remote-controlled sickle mower from AS-Motor has begun, and the first machines have already been delivered. With the AS 990 Tahr RC, the high grass specialist is expanding its RC portfolio with a mower that impresses above all with its bidirectional mowing mode and extreme slope capability.

Faster mowing on steep slopes

The AS 990 Tahr RC operates without a conventional direction of travel. Its sickle mower, which is open on both sides, enables a clean cut forwards and backwards, including even clippings distribution. There is no need to turn after each pass. This saves time and significantly increases the area coverage. The proven cross-blade system from the Sherpa family delivers high cutting power. Grass and scrub up to 1.5 metres high are cut at high speed by two pendulum blades and shredded by the cutter bar above. The large-area deposit of the cut material facilitates its rapid decomposition.

New AS 990 Tahr RC rotary mower enters series production

New AS 990 Tahr RC rotary mower enters series production

The caterpillar design with even weight distribution, large support width and low centre of gravity ensures high traction in every driving situation, uphill, downhill and across slopes. With a slope capability of up to 56 degrees (across the slope), the machine remains stable and controllable. Only the caterpillar tracks have contact with the ground, which reduces the risk of getting stuck and protects the turf. The low ground pressure of only 0.14 kg/cm² underlines the soil-conserving approach.

Intuitive control, high area coverage

The remote control, reduced to the essentials, enables precise working even in demanding terrain. It is child’s play to mow straight lines or turn on the spot if necessary. The automatic reversal (left/right) of the control lever saves you having to rethink when changing direction. In practice, the AS 990 Tahr RC achieves an area coverage of up to 4,500 m² per hour.

Simple and robust – typical AS-Motor

AS-Motor also focuses on maximum robustness and low complexity with the AS 990 Tahr RC. The design is geared towards durability, low susceptibility to faults and easy maintenance, with a solid square steel tube frame, the established cross blade system from the Sherpa series, reliable hydrostatic drives from Hydro-Gear and the proven engine from the AS 940 Sherpa. The asymmetrical crawler track prevents the chains from jumping off, and their tension can be quickly checked and adjusted. Easily accessible service points, a hinged engine cover, few wear parts and moderate fuel consumption of around 4.5 litres per hour ensure economical operation. The compact dimensions, low weight of 502 kg and sturdy lashing points facilitate transport and handling, even in a van.

Safe mowing with the new AS 990 Tahr RC

In addition to productivity and robustness, the AS 990 Tahr RC focuses on user safety. Remote control operation significantly increases this, especially on steep slopes. Users work outside the danger zone, with less dust and noise exposure. Triple ejection protection reduces the risk of stone chips, and an automatic parking brake engages when the machine is stationary or in an emergency stop. Optionally available LED headlights also improve visibility in difficult lighting conditions.

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John Deere named as Solheim Cup Official Machinery Partner

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John Deere named as Solheim Cup Official Machinery Partner: John Deere has been confirmed as the official golf course and turf maintenance machinery partner of the 2026 Solheim Cup taking place at Bernardus Golf, the Netherlands, 7 – 13 September 2026, bringing their considerable experience in world-class course preparation and adding to the events sustainability credentials.

The agreement places John Deere at the heart of one of the biggest events in women’s sport. It formalises a partnership that brings together the global machinery manufacturer, Dutch dealer Kraakman, and the team at host venue Bernardus Golf in the Netherlands.

John Deere named as Solheim Cup Official Machinery Partner

John Deere named as Solheim Cup Official Machinery Partner

Paul Trowman, John Deere’s Golf and Turf Business Manager, said the partnership reflects the company’s long-term commitment to the professional game. “This is a chance to demonstrate how advanced machinery, data-driven management and high service standards can support top-level sport,” he said. “Bernardus Golf is an elite course which is presented by a team that’s at the top of its game. With John Deere machinery at its core, its greenkeepers have the tools and the expertise to ensure a global audience sees the venue in the best possible condition.”

Bernardus Golf’s local John Deere dealer, Kraakman, will supply all the equipment as well as delivering on-the-ground technical expertise before and throughout the event. The dealership is already working closely with the host venue to ensure all the right machinery is on site and has committed to a full training and monitoring programme for staff working at the venue. Back-up parts will be provided and service technicians will support the course’s mechanics.

Wim van Remortele, Commercial Manager for Golf and Turf at Kraakman, said: “Tournament preparation takes months of thought, planning, and expertise to ensure the course is playing to required regulations and looking its absolute best for a world-wide audience. Our role is to optimise the quality, efficiency and accuracy of operations, and we will be there before, during, and after the event because we have a long-term partnership with Bernardus Golf. The Solheim Cup is the pinnacle of Women’s golf so every machine, technician and process will be in peak condition. We are very proud to represent John Deere on home soil, and for what is a landmark moment for the John Deere brand.”

The 2026 Solheim Cup will be the 20th edition of the biennial competition between the best women pros from the USA and Europe and has the ambition to set a new benchmark for eco-friendly sporting events. As well as adding in John Deere’s expertise, sustainability plans include replacing general on-site parking with low-emission travel options, integrated ticketing, and last-mile solutions like the bike route experienced today. Other initiatives include renewable energy use, waste reduction, circular material sourcing, local catering, water-smart operations, and active nature restoration.

Bernardus Superintendent Niall Richardson said the partnership brings confidence and clarity to the months of preparation ahead. “I rely on equipment that performs every single day. With the Solheim Cup ahead, partnering with John Deere gives our team the reliability and support we need to prepare the course to championship level. The electric and hybrid technologies, along with the data they provide, help us work more efficiently and sustainably, key factors in how we manage the course today and into the future.”

John Deere’s market-leading technology and electric and hybrid innovations mean it is a perfect fit for the Solheim Cup’s sustainability values and ambitions. Equipment such as mowers, bunker rakes and utility vehicles will all utilise full or hybrid electric drives, and satellites will guide sprayers to accuracy in application of just 2.5cm. The whole fleet and its operators will be supported by John Deere Operations Center PRO Golf – a cloud-based course management system enabling the assignment of tasks, machinery management, and whole-course budgeting.

The Solheim Cup takes place at Bernardus in the Netherlands in September 2026.

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Beth Gibbs Joins GMA As Regional Pitch Advisor

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Beth Gibbs Joins GMA As Regional Pitch Advisor: The Grounds Management Association (GMA) is proud to announce that Beth Gibbs has been appointed as the new Regional Pitch Advisor – Rugby Union, for the London and South East region, making her the first female to hold this position in the organisation’s history.

Beth began her grounds management career at Wellington School where she joined as an apprentice and undertook her Level 2 qualification in Sports Turf Maintenance. This early hands‑on experience has laid the foundation for her rapid progression in the profession and remains a defining part of her journey into grounds management.

Beth Gibbs Joins GMA As Regional Pitch Advisor

Beth Gibbs Joins GMA As Regional Pitch Advisor

A rising talent within the sector, Beth brings a track record of leadership and advocacy for early‑career professionals. She is an active member of the GMA’s NextGen group, championing pathways for young people entering the industry.

Her achievements were nationally recognised when she was named Young Groundsperson of the Year by the GMA in 2023.

In her new role as Regional Pitch Advisor for the South East and London, Beth will play a pivotal part in shaping and supporting professional standards across one of the most diverse and dynamic regions in the grounds sector. Her appointment shows the GMA’s continued dedication to improving representation and supporting future leaders in grounds management.

Beth Gibbs said: “It’s an honour to take on this role and to be the first female representative. The GMA has played an important part in my development and I’m excited to help others access the same opportunities. I’m passionate about supporting our community, especially young people starting their journey in the industry.”

Geoff Webb, CEO of the GMA, said: “Beth’s appointment is a significant moment for the GMA and for the wider grounds management industry. Beth brings a fresh perspective and real credibility which is why we’re proud to see her step into this role.”

Jason Booth, COO of the GMA, said: “Beth is an exceptional example of the future of our profession – dedicated, knowledgeable and inspiring to others. Her contribution to NextGen and her achievements to date show exactly why she is the right person for this role. We’re thrilled to welcome her to the team.”

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BIGGA Approved as Lantra Customised Provider

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BIGGA Approved as Lantra Customised Provider: The British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA) is proud to announce that it has been formally approved as a Lantra Customised Provider, marking a significant milestone in the Association’s ongoing commitment to raising standards, professionalism, and access to high-quality education across the golf greenkeeping industry.

This approval recognises BIGGA’s capability to design, deliver and quality-assure industry-relevant learning that meets nationally recognised standards.

BIGGA Approved as Lantra Customised Provider

BIGGA Approved as Lantra Customised Provider

As a Lantra Customised Provider, BIGGA is now approved to develop and deliver bespoke, accredited training and awards that are tailored specifically to the needs of the golf and sports turf sector. This status ensures that BIGGA programmes are externally validated, quality assured and aligned with employer and industry expectations, providing learners and employers with confidence that training outcomes are meaningful, credible, and transferable.

The approval also sees the BIGGA Kickstart Programme formally recognised as the association’s first accredited and approved award under the Lantra Customised Awards framework.

This entry-level programme has been designed as an accessible and supportive introduction to the fundamentals of golf course maintenance.  It provides essential knowledge and practical understanding for those interested in pursuing a career in greenkeeping, as well as those already working in the industry who wish to validate their skills and knowledge before potentially progressing to formal Level 2 qualifications.

Rob Phillips, Learning & Development Manager (Technical) at BIGGA, said:

“Becoming an approved Lantra Customised Provider is a significant milestone for BIGGA and represents the latest step in our continued and highly valued partnership with Lantra. This approval gives us the ability to formally accredit BIGGA-designed programmes that are shaped by the realities of modern golf course management and the needs of both learners and employers. The accreditation of the BIGGA Kickstart Programme is particularly important, as it provides a recognised and credible entry point into the profession, while laying the foundations for clear progression through to apprenticeships and our recommended formal education pathway.”

David Fisher, Head of Industry Partnerships for Landscape and Rural, from Lantra added: “As part of our wider partnership working, we are really pleased to confirm BIGGA has been approved as a Lantra Customised Provider.

“The accreditation of the BIGGA Kickstart Programme is an exciting step forward, as it provides a recognised and credible entry point into the profession, providing a Lantra approved certificate for progression through to apprenticeships and further Lantra/ BIGGA approved training and qualifications.

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Green-tech names Prostate Cancer UK as its chosen charity for 2026

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Green-tech names Prostate Cancer UK as its chosen charity for 2026: Green-tech, the UK’s leading supplier of landscaping materials, has announced that Prostate Cancer UK is its chosen charity of the year for 2026.

Green-tech is committed to supporting meaningful causes and giving back to the communities it serves. Each year, a member of the Green-tech team nominates a charity for the business to support through fundraising and awareness activities.

Green-tech names Prostate Cancer UK as its chosen charity for 2026

Green-tech names Prostate Cancer UK as its chosen charity for 2026

For 2026, the chosen charity has been nominated by Roger Aimes-King, Account Manager in the John Chambers Wildflower Seed team. Roger selected Prostate Cancer UK, a charity dedicated to stopping prostate cancer from becoming a life-changing or life-limiting disease for men and their families.

Prostate Cancer UK funds world-class research, provides specialist support services and campaigns for improved diagnosis and treatment. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men in the UK, and the charity plays a vital role in raising awareness, encouraging early detection and supporting those affected at every stage of the disease.

The nomination has personal significance for Roger, who lost his father to prostate cancer 22 years ago. He comments, “This is a cause that is extremely close to my heart. Losing my father to prostate cancer had a profound impact on my family, and it is a disease that affects so many men today. By supporting Prostate Cancer UK, I hope we can help raise awareness, fund vital research and support other families facing similar challenges.”

The Green-tech team aims to raise over £1000 during 2026 through various fundraising events and initiatives. The announcement follows a successful 2025 fundraising year, during which the Green-tech team raised much-needed funds for St Leonard’s Hospice in North Yorkshire.

To find out more about Prostate Cancer UK, visit their website at https://prostatecanceruk.org/ or to make a donation, visit https://www.justgiving.com/page/green-tech-prostate-cancer-uk

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