Tag Archive for: golf

DSV’s PRO Bent Delivers Exceptional Results at Millbrook Golf Club

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DSV’s PRO Bent Delivers Exceptional Results at Millbrook Golf Club: Millbrook Golf Club’s greens are thriving thanks to the use of DSV’s PRO Bent grass seed, which has aligned perfectly with the greenkeeping team’s ethos of continuous improvement.

Chris Jones, Deputy Head Greenkeeper at Millbrook, reflects on the transformation since incorporating the PRO Bent seed, working closely with Craig Rodwell from Soil Biology Ltd – a DSV distributor, to ensure the best results for the course.

DSV's PRO Bent Delivers Exceptional Results at Millbrook Golf Club

DSV’s PRO Bent Delivers Exceptional Results at Millbrook Golf Club

Located in the scenic Bedfordshire countryside, Millbrook Golf Club is a course rich in history and renowned for its beautifully maintained greens. The club, nestled between the village of Millbrook and Woburn Forest, boasts year-round playability due to its elevated position on the Greensand Ridge and its free-draining sandy soil. The course is a mix of heathland and links-style features, with indigenous pine and silver birch lining many of the holes, creating a challenging yet enjoyable environment for golfers.

Chris Jones has been with the club for 18 years and shares a deep connection with it. “The majority of the people who work here tend to stay here. We’re always trying to improve and push the course forward. The course is unrecognisable from what it was when I started; literally, every hole has had some improvement, whether it’s the putting surface, bunkers, or new tees. We’re not just maintaining – we’re here to improve and push it further and further,” he said.

When their previous seed supplier underwent changes, Chris and the team began looking for alternatives. It was then that Craig Rodwell, a consultant from Soil Biology Ltd, introduced them to a range of nutritional products and DSV’s PRO Bent grass seed. From the start, the results were impressive. “By the end of the summer, we noticed remarkable improvements in the greens, including better root systems, healthier plants, and a reduction in thatch. We even went through the winter virtually disease-free,” Chris explained.

PRO Bent is part of DSV’s EuroGrass range, a collection of high-performing seed mixtures developed to meet the specific needs of golf courses and sports pitches. PRO Bent, made up of 100% Browntop bentgrass, is particularly suited for summer and autumn overseeding, as well as species exchange operations. It offers excellent density, drought tolerance, and is ideal for close mowing—making it perfect for maintaining high-quality greens.

Chris highlighted how they overseeded all 18 greens at Millbrook. “We got very quick germination—almost 100%—in just six days, even while people were still playing on the course. By the weekend, the greens were already a good putting surface.”

The positive feedback from both members and visitors has been overwhelming. “We’ve had a lot of compliments about the greens not just from members but also from visitors. It’s great to be recognised, especially since there are so many good golf courses around us. The hard work is really paying off,” Chris said.

The results have been so impressive that Millbrook has expanded its use of DSV products beyond the greens, applying them to the tees and fairways as well. “Once we saw the germination, we quickly realised this was money well spent. The most important thing is getting good seed strike, and that it’s surviving the winters. It’s been progressing each year, and that’s the hardest part with overseeding—getting the cultivars to thrive,” Chris added.

DSV's PRO Bent Delivers Exceptional Results at Millbrook Golf Club

DSV’s PRO Bent Delivers Exceptional Results at Millbrook Golf Club

The success at Millbrook has also been bolstered by the guidance and expertise of Craig Rodwell, who has provided invaluable support throughout the process. “Craig has been fantastic. He has a lot of knowledge and is always there to offer advice,” Chris said.

Craig also praised the EuroGrass range for its suitability to Millbrook’s conditions: “DSV has some excellent cultivars that are healthy and wear tolerant. They’ve really fitted the bill for this type of course.”

Thanks to DSV’s PRO Bent and the ongoing collaboration with Soil Biology, Millbrook Golf Club’s greens are in top condition, demonstrating that continuous improvement and the right products can truly elevate the quality of a golf course.

Chris concludes, “From the results we’ve had, I’d recommend DSV’s PRO Bent to anyone. It’s been a game-changer for us, and we’re excited to see how it continues to improve the course year after year.”

Please visit www.dsv-uk.co.uk for more information.

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Campey™ launches essential golf course maintenance tools

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Campey™ launches essential golf course maintenance tools: Once again Campey Turf Care™ brings essential equipment to the Turf professional with the introduction of several new maintenance products for golf courses. The new products will be in addition to the excellent range of machinery that is already synonymous with the Campey name and manufacturers such as Dakota, Vredo, Imants, Foley Air 2G2, Koro and Imants!

First in the new line-up is the Fairway Falcon; an articulating, pull-type fairway brush, that uses a unique brushing system that contours to undulations. It covers a 4.5m span providing efficient, consistent performance. The unit can be towed by a wide range of equipment compatible with an electric 12-volt system and is ideal for pre-cut preparation, dew removal, de-thatching, disease control, worm cast and aeration core removal and brushing in topdressings. This new brush from Campey is so versatile it will quickly become an invaluable addition to your regular maintenance schedule, improving turf health and playing conditions.

Campey™ launches essential golf course maintenance tools

Campey™ launches essential golf course maintenance tools

Next up is the BM45 Scarifier with Hi-Tip Collection is a professional scarifier with fixed blade collection. Due to the blade fixing system, their replacement does not require the complete disassembly of the transmission and rotor, but only of the worn blades. The high-performance rotor guarantees excellent work in all conditions, even when the cutting edge of the blade is not in optimal condition. In addition, the collector with hydraulic discharge on the ground allows the material removed from the ground to be collected in a single pass. The high ventilation created by the rotor allows it to be used also as a leaf vacuum.

And last but not least is the latest Campey Seed Shot. This simple but very effective device is the perfect re-seeding tool for tackling very specific areas. The latest model is a smaller version to carry smaller seeds such as Bent grass particularly for use on fairways and golf greens. It is perfectly designed with 19 holes to accommodate smaller sized seed, injecting up to 4-5mm deep, in precise quantities and delivering optimal germination rates.

The team of Campey Turf Care Systems is looking forward to seeing you all at BTME 2025 in Harrogate!

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Improved Golf Course Performance Solutions from METOS UK

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Improved Golf Course Performance Solutions from METOS UK: METOS UK introduces a new turf management and business performance solution for golf courses at BTME on 21-23 January 2025.

David Whattoff, Managing Director of METOS UK, says: “We’re delighted to bring a new end-to-end solution to golf courses looking to improve course management and profitability.

Improved Golf Course Performance Solutions from METOS UK

Improved Golf Course Performance Solutions from METOS UK

“With market-leading course management software Punctus, combined with a new GIS mapping tool, our Pessl environmental sensors, and the ability to integrate advanced robotic solutions such as Kress mowers, course owners and managers will now have the tools at their fingertips to enhance course playability and improve their bottom line,” David explains.

Punctus is now available to UK golf courses exclusively through METOS UK. Combined, these solutions bring compound improvements in turf care, course management, sustainability, and business profitability, through improving turf health and maintenance efficiency; reducing chemical usage and environmental impact; remotely monitoring and optimising irrigation and energy use; effectively managing people and machinery; and enhancing data-driven decision-making across the business.

“As the market leader in cloud-based greenkeeping software in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, Punctus brings it’s 20 years of experience to UK course managers, alongside a range of hardware solutions from Pessl that work together to give a bigger picture of course health and business performance.” says David.

“The benefits are extensive, with data helping to inform decisions on water usage, fertilisation, and overall course management through real-time environmental monitoring, customisable alerts for irrigation or maintenance tasks, and integration with precision equipment such as environmental sensors and robotic mowers,” David explains.

“We’re already seeing the benefits where courses are investing in remote sensors for turf management, including soil moisture monitoring at depth, which provides a more accurate picture of drainage across different soil types and green constructions than traditional irrigation sensors,” says David.

Integrated Pessl sensors provide real-time environmental and soil moisture data that can be tracked over time, and a new GIS mapping tool provides a visual representation of drainage and water use across the course, which can help improve course management, irrigation planning, and improvements.

Course owners and managers can learn more about Punctus and the customisable management solutions available, by visiting the METOS UK stand 174, in Hall 1.

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Winners of Women in Golf awards

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Winners of Women in Golf awards: A sparkle of women – and men – came together at Foxhills on Thursday night to celebrate a year of incredible achievements by women in the golf industry at the 2024 Women in Golf Awards. Now in its third year, the awards showcase the work of women from across all sectors of the industry and provide an important platform that inspires more women to consider a career in golf. 

As part of its mission to promote women in golf, the awards organisers announced an exciting  new collaboration with Colt McKenzie McNair and Bernhard Academy.  All of the finalists and sponsors will come together in spring 2025 for a networking and educational day hosted at PING HQ that will elevate and inspire their continued progress in the industry.

Winners of Women in Golf awards

Winners of Women in Golf awards

“Many of the barriers that faced me and my predecessors have been demolished, so now is a great time to start to better understand what our future leaders need,” commented awards founder Nicole Wheatley. “This educational day will work both ways.  We want to provide the 24 finalists with valuable leadership training, but also find out how they think golf can attract more talented women, like them, to work in the industry.”

On the night, BBC sport presented Katherine Downes presented awards in 10 categories, spanning all areas of the industry. The 2024 winners were:

Unsung Hero, sponsored by England Golf – Di Stock, Chief Referee Hampshire Ladies Golf

Di’s selfless commitment to women’s golf within Hampshire over the past 36 years, amassing a conservative estimate of 550 voluntary days refereeing alone is astounding.  She has been County Handicap Advisor since 1988, ran the County Inter-Club knock-out competitions for 5 years; was County President for 3 years and for 27 years she has selflessley given her time to referee at county and other national amateur events, including the Curtis Cup.

Brand of the Year, sponsored by the BGIA – The Grove

The Grove has developed a culture and brand that values women.  Over 49% of its workforce are women, with 75% of the senior leadership team being female.  From hosting the Rose Series to its golf recruitment campaigns, the investment the brand makes in women, both on and off the course, has created an inclusive culture that enables more women and girls to maximise their potential at all levels of the industry and through the sport itself.

International Woman, sponsored by Perry Ellis – Karen Lunn, CEO WPGA Tour Australasia and Chair of Australian Golf Industry Council

From Tour player to CEO of the WPGA – golf around the world owes huge gratitude and respect to Karen.  As CEO of the WPGA Tour of Australasia, Karen has significantly raised the profile of Australasian women’s professional golf, while also fostering golf at every level in the country.  Notable career highlights include steering the then Australian Ladies Professional Golf to a collaborative alliance with the PGA of Australia,  creating the Women’s Professional Golf Tour Australasia which offered more opportunities for fledging and developmental players.  In 2022 Karen became the first woman to chair the Australian Golf Industry Council, a forum to help organisations and businesses throughout the golf industry unite on initiatives, strategy and policy.

Women’s Initiative, sponsored by PING – Bishop’s Stortford Golf Club ‘Blue Course’, Barbara Tucker

When Barbara Tucker was Lady Captain in 2014, she created The ‘Blue Course’ programme as an innovate solution to address the myriad of issues which prevented & discouraged women from learning golf and joining the golf club.  The ‘blue course’ has significantly shorter tees, provides group lessons, gives free use of facilities, and hosts social events as well as rules seminars alongside experienced golfers.  10 years later, Barbara’s Blue Course can be credited with providing an influx of new members which has ensured the ladies section continues to thrive.  The current Ladies section Treasurer, Secretary, Competitions Secretary and Lady Captain are all Blue Course alumni.

Women in Turfcare, sponsored by BIGGA – Anna Nilsson, Deputy Head Greenkeeper of the Brabazon Golf Course at The Belfry

Anna is an extremely talented greenkeeper whose course bears testament to her unwavering dedication, expertise and passion all of which has helped to secure the return of the British Masters to The Belfry in 2025.  Anna is also dedicated to inspiring future greenkeepers, coaching students and visiting schools to talk to children about working in the industry.  Anna’s encouragement is making a huge impact on everyone she meets and her success is inspiring young women to take up a career in Turfcare.

Women PGA Professional, sponsored by TGI Golf Partnership – Sarah Bennett

Sarah Bennett is one of the most recognised figures in women’s golf in the UK.  Sarah has dedicated herself to golf’s growth throughout her 34-year pro career, focusing on inclusion and bringing more women into the game.  Sarah has been Essex Girls Head Coach since 2012, worked in a voluntary capacity for the WPGA and on the PGA Executive Committee and was recently PGA Captain, becoming only the second woman to hold that post.  She is a familiar sight at The Open where she has delivered coaching in the SwingZone for over 10 years.

Women’s Leadership, sponsored by the GCMA – Becca Hembrough, England Golf Performance Manager (Female Golf)

Over the past 10 years, Becca has led England to become the most successful women’s golf team in Europe. In 2022/3 she championed the development of a new strategy for England Golf Performance, which is already bearing fruit.  In 2024 one of her players was ranked World no. 1 – a first for an English amateur golfer, all 3 female teams won a medal in the European Team Championships (gold for U18s) and 4 players were named for the Curtis Cup, who beat the USA.  Becca has also demonstrated leadership through the Project Ukraine programme, which has had a huge impact on the golf world.

Rising Star, sponsored by Club Car – Molly Pavey, Group General Manager Bramshaw Golf Club and Paultons Golf Centre

In 2 years, Molly has quickly risen through the ranks to become General Manager at Bramshaw Golf Club as well as sister venue Paultons Golf.  Molly has been instrumental in bringing Girls Golf Rocks and Golf Rookies to the group and both venues have signed the Women in Golf Charter under her stewardship this year.  Molly was one of only 3 recipients of the ECEF’s Young Managers Bursary in 2024, allowing her to continue to grow and learn.  Molly has also joined the Hampshire Ladies Board as Governance Director demonstrating her ongoing commitment to the game.

Special Award – Trailblazers – Fiona Womack and Sharon Eales

Fiona and Sharon have developed a scientific model that represents a paradigm shift in golf course design.  For so many women (and men) the shortest tees are still too long and often not in a great position.  This means that many women do not enjoy the same experience on the course as men.  Their model creates a scaled version of the courses that the architect wanted every golfer to play, incorporating all of the same experiences, using the same clubs for the same shots, tackling the same hazards, just with fewer yards involved.  This new approach has already attracted interest from leading golf course architects including Tom Mackenzie, the R&A’s Handicap Committee, the WHS Operations Committee and various governing bodies.

Special Award – Inspirational Achievement – Adele McLean, Managing Director TGI Golf

This year, nearly two decades after joining TGI Golf, Adele McLean accepted the role of Managing Director and looks to continue building on the success TGI Golf has enjoyed over the last 40 years.  Her journey from the driving range to heading up the UK  & Ireland’s leading golf retail services business is nothing short of inspirational.  Her appointment was celebrated far and wide by women and men across the industry who recognised the incredible impact she has had on the business and demonstrates to other women what can be achieved when there are no glass ceilings.

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The Golf House Club, Elie prepares for 150th anniversary

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The Golf House Club, Elie prepares for 150th anniversary: The Golf House Club, Elie is preparing for its 150th anniversary celebrations with the help of three new Toro Greensmaster TriFlex 3420 hybrid mowers, signifying the club’s commitment to providing an exceptional golfing experience – as it has done for a century and a half.

The traditional links course, located just 12 miles from St Andrews, is the third oldest in the world, with a rich golfing tradition dating back to 1589. For course manager Matt Baird, only one brand is fit for such a historic course: Toro.

The Golf House Club, Elie prepares for 150th anniversary

The Golf House Club, Elie prepares for 150th anniversary

“Though our golfing history dates back to the 16th century, the club was founded in 1875, so we’re eagerly anticipating our 150th anniversary next year,” he says. “It’s going to be a huge occasion and we’re busy renovating tees and preparing the course – that’s where the new Toro mowers will come in.”

The trio of hybrid mowers, supplied by Reesink Turfcare, are classic Toro – precise, productive, highly efficient, and capable of the perfect cut – and exactly what Matt’s come to expect from the brand.

“We’ve been using Toro’s flawless Lynx irrigation system since 2019 and a 3420 hybrid mower for some time now, so we know just how good Toro is,” says Matt. “With all the work ahead of our 150th anniversary, it was the perfect time to expand our fleet and bring in more hybrid power.”

The 3420 is enhanced by Turf Guardian leak detection technology and provides immediate audio and visual indication of possible hydraulic fluid leaks. While this is already at minimal risk due to the hybrid engine, it provides an added layer of reassurance. “Not only does it offer us peace of mind, opting for a hybrid also helps us reduce our total emissions as a club,” confirms Matt.

“We’re working hard to improve surfaces, especially tees and approaches,” he continues. “On a traditional links course like ours, people expect to be able to putt from approaches – with their precise quality of cut, the new 3420s will help ensure our surfaces are immaculate.”

But the deal is as much about the people as it is the brand, according to Matt: “Working with John Rankin and Reesink has been a breeze. With all the renovations going on, there’s a long list of jobs to complete, but they’ve been efficient and reliable – just like Toro! – and that’s made life much easier for us.”

To make a start on the journey towards reduced emissions, visit Reesink Turfcare at reesinkturfcare.co.uk.

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