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Education experience granted to five BIGGA members

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Education experience granted to five BIGGA members: The British & International Golf Greenkeepers Association and Partner ICL have revealed the five recipients of the sixth ICL Continue to Learn Scholarship ahead of the education programme’s return to in-person learning in January 2022.

The successful BIGGA members are:

Kevin Butler, greenkeeper, Saunton Golf Club

Michael Gibbons, greenkeeper, Dunham Forest Golf Club

Abigail Laker, greenkeeper, Frilford Heath Golf Club

Michael Russell, greenkeeper, Preston Golf Club

Jeremy Ward, head greenkeeper, Bradford Moor Golf Club

Education experience granted to five BIGGA members

Education experience granted to five BIGGA members

In addition, the five BIGGA members who participated in the ICL scholarship in 2021, when Continue to Learn took place entirely online, have also been invited to attend the in-person event in January 2022.

To earn an ICL Continue to Learn Scholarship, BIGGA members must demonstrate a commitment to developing their own professional abilities by engaging with BIGGA’s Continuing Professional Development scheme.

The ICL Continue to Learn Scholars will receive three nights’ hotel accommodation and 15 hours of training and personal development opportunities as BIGGA’s world-leading education programme returns to Harrogate Convention Centre in January 2022.

BIGGA’s Head of Learning & Development, Sami Strutt, said: “After hosting Continue to Learn as an online event in 2021 due to COVID-19, we’re thrilled to be able to host in-person learning once again in January 2022. Thanks to ICL, five BIGGA members will enjoy the countless hours of personal and professional development that come with attending BTME and Continue to Learn. Our sincere thanks are extended to ICL for their continuing support of BIGGA and its members.”

Ed Carter, UK Sales and Development Manager at ICL, said: “ICL is a keen supporter of the Continue to Learn education programme as we understand that a highly educated workforce is better able to overcome the challenges that face the industry in the coming years, whether due to our changing climate, changing restrictions on the availability of products or simply due to the desire of golfers to enjoy better quality playing surfaces throughout the year.

“Through the ICL Continue to Learn Scholarship we are able to demonstrate this commitment to BIGGA and its members and I’m hopeful that each of the successful Scholars takes full advantage of the fantastic opportunity they have been presented with.”

Continue to Learn at BTME 2022 will take place at Harrogate Convention Centre from Sunday 23 to Wednesday 26 January 2022. The extensive education programme will run alongside the BIGGA Turf Management Exhibition, the leading indoor exhibition in Europe for the sports turf industry.

For further information on BTME and Continue to Learn 2022 visit www.btme.org.uk.

Through the Turf Rewards loyalty scheme from ICL and Syngenta, BIGGA members are able to claim Continue to Learn education vouchers. Points are gained by purchasing products for use on the golf course. For further information visit www.turfrewards.com.

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GMA education programme continues to grow

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GMA education programme continues to grow: The Grounds Management Association (GMA) reaches a significant milestone in its online training with more than 2,000 enrolling for its courses since the pandemic began.

Now, the not-for-profit member organisation adds two new courses to its training offering; Online Level 2 Cricket Surfaces (Applied Turf Culture) and the first face-to-face training course since the Covid-19 pandemic began, Level 2 Racecourse: Turf Management.

GMA education programme continues to grow

GMA education programme continues to grow

Taking around 6 hours to complete, Online Level 2 Cricket Surfaces (Applied Turf Culture) is ideal for volunteers or new additions to grounds teams seeking to develop their skills and learn about the importance of preparing a playing surface with the implementation of an annual maintenance plan.

Students who successfully complete the end of course assessment gain valuable knowledge and applicable skills for day-to-day maintenance activities and a certificate of achievement, whilst the course’s specialist content will be crucial for all aspiring cricket grounds staff or volunteers.

Whilst expanding its online training suite, the GMA also announces the return of face-to-face training with a 5-day training course at the British Racing School. Taking place from 14 – 19 November 2021, Level 2 Racecourse: Turf Management teaches students how to apply the theory required to understand the science of racecourse grounds maintenance and will be equally relevant for individual grounds staff as well as Clerks of the course.

Developed in conjunction with the Racecourse Association and the British Horseracing Authority, the 5-day course will be delivered by industry experts, Alan Lewis NDT, Adrian Kay, Head Groundsman at York Racecourse and Richard Linley, Senior Inspector of Courses at the British Horseracing Authority, with accommodation and food covered in the package.

Dan Prest, Head of Technical and Learning, said:

“It has been an incredibly challenging 18 months, but one thing that hasn’t changed is the drive from so many in the industry to continue in their professional journey and development working in the turf-care sector. Whilst we’ve all had to adapt to a more online-orientated work and study life, we know how valuable practical face-to-face training courses are.

We’re also pleased to be developing more content than ever to align with our Pitch Advisory Service objectives to help volunteers get the most of their local natural and artificial surfaces.”

You can sign-up to online Level 2 Cricket Surfaces (Applied Turf Culture) by clicking here.

Or to find out more about Level 2 Racecourse: Turf Management, click here.

More details on the Pitch Advisory Service can be found on the GMA’s website.

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BIGGA’s world-leading education programme

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BIGGA’s world-leading education programme: The British & International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA) has revealed that preparations are underway for the return of the BIGGA Turf Management Exhibition (BTME) to Harrogate in January 2022 with the launch of Proposal to Present for Continue to Learn.

A key component of BTME, Continue to Learn is recognised as one of the world’s leading greenkeeping education events, drawing more than 3,000 delegates each year.

BIGGA's world-leading education programme

BIGGA’s world-leading education programme

The content of the programme is decided upon by BIGGA members who participate in the Members’ Choice process, whereby interested speakers are invited to pitch content for seminars and workshops and members then select what they would like to see on the Continue to Learn programme.

Continue to Learn 2022 is anticipated to be a hybrid event, combining in-person learning and online sessions following the incredible success of Continue to Learn 2021, which was hosted entirely online due to the coronavirus pandemic.

BIGGA Head of Learning and Develop Sami Strutt said: “As we begin the planning for Continue to Learn 2022 we are inviting Proposals to Present from across the industry. We are looking for those who have stories to tell, perhaps from their pandemic experiences, renovation projects, research and development, personal health and wellbeing and, of course, all things agronomy-related.

“Taking the programme online in January 2021 allowed us to attract attendees who, under normal circumstances would not have been able to make the trip to Harrogate. Many of the oversees attendees claimed in their feedback that they would be attending BTME and Continue to Learn in future and that’s an incredible affirmation of the hard word that goes into hosting the event each year.

“We are entering an exciting period where we can reimagine the traditional methods of delivery, considering ways to make it more accessible to those who are unable to attend while ensuring we deliver the same quality and quantity of education expected from the Continue to Learn education programme.”

Anyone interested in contributing to the Continue to Learn 2022 education programme can submit a Proposal to Present by 25 April 2021 at https://continue-to-learn-2022.cfp.lineup.ninja/

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Bernhard and Company champions education

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Bernhard and Company champions education: Industry-leaders in sharpening equipment and turf management solutions, Bernhard and Company, utilised innovative company assets and sales tools to champion turf education and high-tech management solutions while promoting new product technology to prospective clients at the virtual GIS (Golf Industry Show) 2021.

“We made the decision to attend the virtual show to increase product awareness and promote education within the turf industry,” commented Director of Worldwide Sales for Bernhard and Company, Steven Nixon. “A key element to business longevity and success, our aim is to help people understand the extreme benefits, both short and long-term, to sharpening their mowing equipment.”

Bernhard and Company champions education

Bernhard and Company champions education

The GIS Industry Show, operated by the GCSAA (Golf Course Superintendents Association of America), is the golf industry’s leading turf conference and trade show. As a company that sits at the forefront of education and development within the sector, the show falls perfectly in line with the values that Bernhard and Company represent.

The three-day virtual event took place in early February, with more than 9,000 attendees online, including industry experts and over 200 exhibitors. Over the course of the three days, there were more than 80 interactive education sessions with industry experts, numerous networking events, virtual booth visits, special guests, and award presentations.

Despite the virtual nature of the show, Bernhard and Company were able to demonstrate their constant strive to innovate with the latest features on their grinding machines. The company have taken the concept of sharpening and developed cutting-edge management solutions with new technology that allows turf professionals to constantly provide the very best playing surfaces. New products utilise market-leading technology such as contactless RFID (radio-frequency identification), laser surveying, intuitive touch screens, wireless handsets and remote service modules.

Available for 24-hours on each day of the show, Bernhard and Company made use of every hour of exhibiting time at their disposal. Global sales teams helped to manage the exhibition booth round the clock, allowing the company to speak to and welcome visitors from around the world, including distributors, existing customers and a raft of keen prospects.

The show also presented a great opportunity for Bernhard and Company to convey how they can help sporting venues through alternate turf management solutions, with the likes of SubAir and TurfBreeze, who were also present at the event.

“The show has been fantastic for us this year,” commented Internal Sales and Marketing Manager for Bernhard and Company, Angelique Crosnier. “With a new format it has been great to virtually meet show attendees from all over the world in a safe environment.

“The virtual show still allowed us to showcase all that we have to offer. The response from our customers, distributors, prospects and show attendees has been noticed by all our sales team members who managed the booth – these relationships are key to us,” she added.

There are 30 days of on-demand access to content from the show, so attendees can digest educational resources at their own pace.

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BIGGA members’ opportunity to shape education launches

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BIGGA members’ opportunity to shape education launches: The British & International Golf Greenkeepers Association has launched the Members’ Choice survey for 2021.

The survey offers BIGGA members the opportunity to shape the education that is on offer at the Continue to Learn 2021 education programme, which is due to return in January as part of the BIGGA Turf Management Exhibition.

BIGGA members’ opportunity to shape education launches

BIGGA members’ opportunity to shape education launches

The link to the Members’ Choice survey will be sent to all greenkeeper members of BIGGA. Prospective topics have been gathered through BIGGA’s annual ‘Proposal to Present’ system, where individuals and companies can submit their ideas for future programmes.

The Members’ Choice survey distinguishes the job role of the respondent, thus enabling BIGGA to create programmes suited to their members, wherever they may be on their career journey.

Continue to Learn at BTME is the most comprehensive education programme for greenkeeping professionals outside of the USA and attracts in excess of 3,000 attendees each year.

Sami Strutt, BIGGA’s head of member development, said: “In these strange times we are living in, it is all the more important to focus on the future. Planning for Continue to Learn at BTME 2021 is in full force, but needs the help of our members to shape the programme content. We want the learning to be relevant and to further enhance the knowledge and professionalism that is demanded by greenkeepers and we can only do this by asking our members what they want to see from the Continue to Learn offering.”

Continue to Learn at BTME 2021 will take place at Harrogate Convention Centre from Sunday 17 to Wednesday 20 January 2021, running alongside BTME, which runs from Tuesday 19 to Thursday 21 January 2021.

The Members’ Choice survey is available to complete online here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/MCC2L2021

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IOG’s Training & Education Guide

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IOG’s Training & Education Guide: The new IOG Prospectus is the definitive guide to the Institute of Groundsmanship’s  Training and Education, detailing the many training courses and qualifications available from the institute. The 44-page booklet outlines the qualifications, training courses and advisory services available to help support individual career development and future opportunities.

Also included is an ‘at-a-glance’ career roadmap showing how all the different options dovetail to create progression pathways.

IOG's Training & Education Guide

In addition, there is an explanation of the IOG’s Pitch Grading Framework – guidelines that match pitch quality standards with the skills required to maintain them, at every level from volunteer grassroots playing surfaces needing introductory certification through to foundation degrees for professionals at elite stadia.

The Prospectus offers something for everyone; a blended learning system that allows access to IOG courses in the workplace, the classroom or online, to enable everyone to enhance their skillset and knowledge.

A host of IOG training courses are outlined, for winter pitches, cricket, bowls, racecourses, warm season grasses, reinforced pitches and artificial surfaces, as well as ‘general’ and bespoke courses. The qualifications offered by the IOG include:

  • Technical Awards, Certificates and Diplomas in turf surface maintenance;
  • Certificate in sustainable turf management;
  • Professional Certificate and Diploma in turf surface management;
  • Professional Certificate in turf surface consulting; and
  • Supervisor Management Level 3.

Commenting on the launch of the IOG Prospectus, chief executive Geoff Webb said: “The IOG is committed to encouraging continual skills development and is passionate about supporting those wanting to learn how to improve playing surfaces at every level of the sporting spectrum.

“Thousands of grounds people train with us each year, as well as the many who undertake IOG qualifications, and the IOG Prospectus now provides an easy-reference guide for everyone involved.”

A PDF copy of the IOG Prospectus can viewed in the Learning area of the IOG website (www.iog.org/learning) or via the link https://www.iog.org/sites/default/files/documents/pages/iog_learning_prospectus_2018_1.pdf and printed copies are available from the IOG by calling 01908 312511 or via email: Learning@iog.org

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Education City GC Partners John Deere

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Education City GC Partners John Deere: A major investment in John Deere golf course maintenance equipment has been made by the brand new Education City Golf Club in Doha, Qatar, which is due to open at the end of October 2018. The machinery will be used on three courses, with a total of 33 holes spread across 120ha.

Education City Golf Club is a landmark project for Qatar and the world of golf, offering a revolutionary and holistic approach to growing the game of golf. The facility features three golf courses including an 18-hole championship course, a floodlit 6-hole championship course and a floodlit 9-hole par 3 course, all designed by two-time US Masters winner and 2012 Ryder Cup winning captain Jose Maria Olazabal. It also comprises a range of short game formats, a state-of-the-art learning and practice facility housed in the Centre of Excellence and a TrackMan driving range.

Education City GC Partners John Deere

Uniquely the 6-hole championship course has seven tee options per hole for quick and multi-generational golf, as part of the club’s role in supporting the game’s development and encouraging its growth in the region. The golf courses are serviced by a clubhouse and academy building, which will both offer all-day dining options. Surrounding the clubhouse are large gardens where a number of lawn sports will also be available, including footgolf, frisbee golf and croquet.

The facility will be maintained by Golf Course Superintendent Darren Smith and Deputy Superintendent Andrew Ikstrums. An initial fleet of 93 John Deere machines including tractors, greens, fairway & rough mowers and Gator utility vehicles has been delivered by Qatar dealer Progressive, along with other ancillary equipment including sprayers, top dressers and aerators. The choice of John Deere as preferred supplier to Education City Golf Club was made on Darren Smith’s recommendation, following an intensive examination of the equipment’s technical and environmental features.

In line with the club’s sustainability vision, John Deere was considered a perfect match due to the hybrid electric technology used on over 90 per cent of the mowing fleet. These mowers feature proven E-Cut Quick Adjust (QA) cutting units driven by electric reel motors that support energy efficiency, reduced fuel consumption and lower sound levels. In addition, 102 potential hydraulic leak points are removed from the equation due to the use of electric drives in the reel circuits. Precision and quality were also key considerations in the decision making process, as Education City aims to present a premium experience to its members and guests.

Seif Al Ghaly, Managing Director of Progressive, John Deere’s official supplier in Qatar, said: “As the exclusive dealer for John Deere agriculture & turf equipment in the region, Progressive Trading is proud and honoured to supply Education City Golf Club for the first time with our largest ever fleet of golf and utility equipment, to cater for the maintenance of this prestigious project.

“We are committed to providing first class products and service from our well trained and dedicated team of employees, with the full support, back-up and experience of the international John Deere business.”

Education City Golf Club’s General Manager Michael Braidwood added: “Our core product is the golf course and therefore it must be presented in immaculate condition. The equipment has been carefully selected to ensure an excellent guest and member experience. John Deere products are aligned to our vision in sustainability and to supporting our environmental initiatives in reducing fuel and waste. Furthermore, John Deere invests worldwide in education and training, which is another of our core values, and we look forward to a successful long-term partnership with the company.”

For more information, visit: www.JohnDeere.co.uk

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Foley Becomes BIGGA Education Supporter

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Foley Becomes BIGGA Education Supporter: Foley United is proud to announce a new relationship with the British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA) as Education Supporters.

In becoming the latest BIGGA Education Supporter, Foley United will support the members of the association and the wider greenkeeping industry and provide a number of educational opportunities through the BIGGA framework. These opportunities will include seminars and workshops to outline grinding best practice, while giving a full explanation of the different options available when it comes to all aspects of grinding.

Foley Becomes BIGGA Education Supporter

This information will also be made available through articles and e-newsletters to provide easy access to all BIGGA members, with a particular focus on ensuring educational material is always available on request whenever required. Foley will be working closely with the BIGGA regional team to address any concerns or questions on grinding and to bring knowledge of new products and techniques directly to greenkeepers, making it easier to offer tailored solutions.

BIGGA Chief Executive Jim Croxton said: “We’re delighted that Foley United has joined with BIGGA as our latest education supporter. Working closely with the biggest names in the industries allows our members to benefit from their expertise and knowledge, which can only help to raise standards across the industry.

“The team at Foley United is renowned for its innovation in technology and design and its constant desire to strive forwards. This is an ethos shared by BIGGA members everywhere, and so I’m looking forward to working closer with the Foley United team going forwards and creating further education opportunities across the association.”

Brad Kautzer, CEO of Foley Grinders, said: “As an acknowledged technology leader in grinding best practices designed to maintain mowing equipment to optimal OEM specification, Foley United is excited to team with BIGGA’s educational arm to share global best practices to improve results for BIGGA members. We strongly believe education and keeping abreast of the latest developments, whether safety, performance or productivity tips, will raise knowledge levels while reducing costs for course operators.”

Foley United appreciates that budgets vary across the wide range of courses where  BIGGA members are employed and to address that Foley United is offering a broad range of options to suit all levels of expectation. This will guarantee that in-house grinding is a financially sound investment, with a range of products that can be upgraded over time while always delivering a top quality grinding experience.

For further information on Foley United visit www.foleyunited.com or for Foley product information for the UK and Ireland visit www.prosportukltd.com

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