Tag Archive for: greenkeepers

BIGGA invites greenkeepers to share their opinions

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BIGGA invites greenkeepers to share their opinions: The British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA) is this week launching a survey that invites all greenkeepers – whether members of the association or otherwise – to share their opinions on the structure and role of the association itself.

The survey is intended to ensure that greenkeepers are at the heart of plans to develop the activities and structure of BIGGA and ensure it is well-placed to meet the challenges of future years.

BIGGA invites greenkeepers to share their opinions

BIGGA invites greenkeepers to share their opinions

The survey is the first step in a consultation phase that is being undertaken in collaboration with Sporting Insights, the leading sports marketing research organisation. The survey can be completed here.

The questionnaire will give all greenkeepers the opportunity to have their say about BIGGA itself, whether positive or otherwise. Questions will cover the BIGGA membership offering, the value of benefits and initiatives that are currently available and how these might change. There will also be questions on membership categories, the role of volunteers and how BIGGA advocates for its members within the industry.

Those who complete the questionnaire will be entered into a draw to win £500 in Amazon vouchers.

Scott Reeves, BIGGA Head of Membership, said: “BIGGA has a proven history of advancing the profession of greenkeeping and providing its members with innovative benefits and opportunities. As the association approaches its 40th anniversary, we recognise that the industry is rapidly changing and if we are to remain an influential force within the golf and turf management industries, we must listen to all stakeholders, whether within membership or those who opt against joining BIGGA. This is a genuine opportunity for everyone in greenkeeping to influence the direction BIGGA takes over the coming years and we are committed to listening to all voices, whether supportive or otherwise.”

Jim Croxton, BIGGA CEO, said: “The greenkeeping industry never stands still. Greenkeepers are renowned for being self-critical and always wanting to improve their facilities and their own knowledge. At BIGGA we aim to have a similar mentality, which is why we are again seeking clear feedback to ensure our offering to our members and the wider industry is as fit for purpose as it can be.

“I’m proud of the strides BIGGA has made during its lifetime but we cannot rest on our laurels and I hope very many of our members and other stakeholders in the industry will help us to achieve even more in the next few years.”

Steve Lloyd, BIGGA Chairperson and The Worcestershire Golf Club Course Manager, said: “Participating in this survey gives each of us a voice in shaping the future of our association and, ultimately, our profession. As greenkeepers, our insights and experiences are invaluable in defining the direction and support we need from BIGGA.

“Completing this survey is a chance to make sure the structure and role of the association truly reflect what’s most important for our work and the industry. I encourage all greenkeepers to take part and contribute to this vision for the future.”

BIGGA has long been an association that has evolved to suit the ever-changing needs of its members. A desire to improve professionalism and knowledge led to the development of the Continue to Learn education programme and the implementation of an industry-first Continuing Professional Development system. In recent years, challenges with workforce recruitment and retention and increasing concern relating to mental health have led to the significant investment intended to support members in these areas.

Complete the survey here.

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Somerset and Dorset greenkeepers earn student awards victories

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Somerset and Dorset greenkeepers earn student awards victories: The British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA), Reesink UK and Toro have revealed the winners of the prestigious Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year awards at a spectacular event at Oulton Hall in West Yorkshire.

Two student greenkeepers who had travelled the furthest proved victorious, with Jack Vowell of Farrington Park in Somerset and Daniel Parker of Knighton Heath in Dorset claiming the top prizes.

Somerset and Dorset greenkeepers earn student awards victories

Somerset and Dorset greenkeepers earn student awards victories

Following regional judging earlier in the year, 10 finalists were selected to contest the prestigious awards at Oulton Hall, where there was further examination of their abilities with a series of tests that gave them the opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge and passion for the greenkeeping industry.

The Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year Award was presented to Jack Vowell, Deputy Head Greenkeeper at Farrington Park, by Jon Cole, Divisional Business Manager at Reesink Turfcare and main award judge. Jack is a former recruitment consultant who switched to greenkeeping five years ago and is a student at Bridgwater and Taunton College.

Jack said: “It was such a strong field that when the runner-up’s name was read out I thought, ‘I’ve got no chance, he’s fantastic compared to me’ and so I was in complete shock when my name was announced as the winner. I just couldn’t believe it was me! ”

Jon Cole added: “The five main finalists were very impressive and they have done themselves and their clubs proud. They show that the industry is in extremely safe hands going forward. It was a closely run competition and everyone acquitted themselves well. Jack, however, showed a balance of professionalism and technical knowledge, which he knew how to deliver.”

Runner-up in the main category was Jack Wellings, Senior Greenkeeper at the JCB Golf and Country Club and a student at Myerscough College.

The Toro Young Student Greenkeeper of the Year Award was presented to Daniel Parker, Apprentice Greenkeeper at Knighton Heath, by David Timms, National Accounts Manager for Reesink Turfcare and young award judge. Daniel is a student at Sparsholt College.

Daniel said: “So many emotions were going around my head, I couldn’t believe it, but it’s brilliant. I phoned my dad as soon as I found out and he was with some family at home and they were all celebrating with me. I then spoke to my course manager and he and the rest of the team were completely thrilled. This award is as much for them as it is for me because we’re all part of a team.”

David Timms added: “The young finalists shone on the course walk, demonstrating a fantastic level of knowledge with enthusiasm and confidence. All the awards judges felt proud, pleased and privileged to be able to see the calibre of the next generation of greenkeeping in front of us. Daniel is destined for a long career in the industry and is a worthy winner of the Young award.”

Runner-up in the young category was Alex Fox, Apprentice Greenkeeper at Woodhall Spa and a matchday groundsperson at Lincoln City FC and Wembley Stadium. Alex is a student at Bishop Burton College.

Jim Croxton, BIGGA CEO, said: “Congratulations to Jack Vowell and Daniel Parker, two very worthy winners, and huge thanks to our friends at Reesink Turfcare and Toro for another truly inspirational Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year finals here at Oulton Hall. It’s been a fantastic event with 10 wonderful finalists all trying their best. BIGGA exists to try and improve the world for greenkeepers and looking at what we’ve had in front of us today and over the last few months through the process, I think greenkeeping has a bright future ahead.”

The Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year Awards will return in 2025. More information including how to nominate a student greenkeeper and the extraordinary prizes on offer is available on the BIGGA website and the Reesink Turfcare website Students Awards | Reesink Turfcare.

You can also watch the moment the winners were revealed and view exclusive interviews with Jack Vowell and Daniel Parker on the BIGGA website.

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Royal Troon greenkeepers get compound upgrade

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Royal Troon greenkeepers get compound upgrade: Royal Troon Golf Club has upgraded its greenkeepers compound, incorporating state-of-the-art locker rooms, ahead of this summer’s 152nd Open.

The 145-year-old club, based in South Ayrshire, Scotland, has made a large investment in a new welfare block, which includes offices, a staff room, a kitchen, wet and dry changing facilities, showers and toilets.

Royal Troon greenkeepers get compound upgrade

Royal Troon greenkeepers get compound upgrade

The changing rooms feature 28 modern lockers and benches to cater for the dedicated team responsible for maintaining the club’s pristine courses.

The investment aims to support the 20 greenkeeping staff preparing to host the Championship in July.

Locit, the manufacturer of the Pure Lockers brand, partnered with distributor Nationwide Lockers to deliver the slate grey steel lockers to the specifications of contractor Fleming Build.

Stephen Anthony, Club Secretary at Royal Troon Golf Club, said: “The club is delighted with the new facilities, including the lockers, for our 20 greenkeepers. 

“The move to personal lockers provides a secure space for our team’s belongings. 

“The club is committed to the well-being of every employee and this upgrade speaks volumes about the value the club places on our dedicated team of greenkeepers and their integral role in maintaining our course’s international standards.”

John Burns, Project lead and Site Manager for Fleming Build, based in Glasgow, said: “The recent enhancement to the greenkeepers’ compound underscores Royal Troon’s commitment to providing top-notch facilities for its dedicated employees.

“The decision to work with Nationwide as a locker supplier was influenced by price, a quick lead time, colour customisation and fast installation. Pure Lockers were the best buy and ensured a seamless delivery process for Royal Troon. Collaborating with Locit and Nationwide Lockers reinforced our commitment to quality project delivery.”

Pure Lockers are the world’s first carbon-neutral steel lockers. Each product is PAS 2060 certified, the internationally recognised specification for carbon neutrality published by the British Standards Institution (BSI).

Locit manufactures from a state-of-the-art digital manufacturing facility in Deeside using 3D CAD/CAM software solutions that enable the design of products with minimum waste materials. The factory also uses an innovative curing process at a lower temperature than the industry standard to guarantee the highest quality and 40% energy savings.

Kevin Elliott, Business Development Manager, at Locit said: “At Locit, we take pride in our commitment to delivering excellence to our clients. We understand that each client has unique requirements, and our approach is collaborative. We work closely with our clients to tailor Pure Lockers to their needs, ensuring that every detail aligns with their vision.”

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Greenkeepers set for career-enhancing experience

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Greenkeepers set for career-enhancing experience: The British and Irish greenkeepers travelling to TPC Sawgrass to volunteer at The Players Championship in March met at John Deere’s BTME stand as they prepare for the experience of a lifetime.

The seven-strong contingent was selected to be part of the programme organised annually by John Deere in partnership with the British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA) and the Association of Turfgrass Professionals Ireland (ATPI).

Greenkeepers set for career-enhancing experience

Greenkeepers set for career-enhancing experience

At the tournament in Florida they will get the unique opportunity to work alongside greenkeepers from around the world, gaining invaluable experience of elite championship agronomy as they prepare the course for the world’s best golfers.

The 2024 BIGGA volunteers are Aidan Wright (Camberley Heath Golf Club), Adam Brackley (La Grand Mare Hotel), Colin Hopper (Elsham Golf Club), Ian Kirwan (Chorlton-cum-Hardy Golf Club), David Feeney, (Prestwick Golf Club), and Adam Champion (Bearspaw Golf Club, Canada). The ATPI’s chosen representative is Lorcan Finnegan (Malahide Golf Club).

At the BTME event in Harrogate the volunteers from Britain and Ireland met each other for the first time and spoke with John Deere’s golf and turf experts about what to expect from trip.

Chris Meacock, John Deere’s Division Sales Manager for Golf and Turf, said: “The TPC Sawgrass experience is just a few weeks away so the excitement is building among the group.

“Professional development of greenkeepers is fundamental to both the individual and to the golf courses they will work on during their careers. There can be fewer better ways to test their skills and learn from others than by being part of The Players championship.”

Volunteer David Feeny, who is the Deputy Course Manager at Prestwick Golf Club, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity which I can’t wait to take part in.”

Lorcan Finnegan, who is a greenkeeper and mechanic at Malahide Golf Club in Dublin, said: “To have won a place on this programme feels like a dream. I’ve enjoyed everything I’ve done and learnt as a greenkeeper so far, but TPC Sawgrass is going to be on a different level.”

Applications for the 2025 John Deere TPC Sawgrass Volunteer Programme will open shortly on the BIGGA website.

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BIGGA and Bernhard and Company select greenkeepers

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BIGGA and Bernhard and Company select greenkeepers: The British & International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA) and Premium Partner Bernhard and Company have selected 10 association members to engage in one of the sports turf industry’s most prestigious learning opportunities. 

A BIGGA Premium Partner, each year Bernhard and Company invites 10 BIGGA members to attend the Golf Course Superintendent Association of America’s (GCSAA) Conference and Trade Show, this year taking place in Phoenix, Arizona.  A spot on the delegation marks out a candidate as among the most dedicated and talented ambassadors for the golf greenkeeping sector.

BIGGA and Bernhard and Company select greenkeepers

BIGGA and Bernhard and Company select greenkeepers

With experiences designed to elevate the careers of those in attendance, the delegation is a week-long educational trip that features site visits as well as seminars, networking events and educational demonstrations. The successful delegates will also be invited to convene at the BIGGA Turf Management Exhibition in January, where they will meet former participants in the programme, many of whom have gone on to great success in their careers.

The BIGGA members selected for the 2024 BIGGA Delegation with Bernhard and Company are:

  • Robert Acheson, course manager, Thonock Park Golf Club
  • Harry Cannon, head greenkeeper, Sunningdale Golf Club
  • Stephen Davey, head greenkeeper, Queenwood Golf Club
  • Michael Gibbons, course manager, Disley Golf Club
  • James Hampson, deputy head greenkeeper, Llanymynech Golf Club
  • Stuart Imeson, owner and course manager, Dunstanburgh Castle Golf Course
  • Fraser Jardine, deputy head greenkeeper, Trump Turnberry
  • Richard Ponsford, course manager, Clevedon Golf Club
  • Luke Sheldon, head greenkeeper, Beau Desert Golf Club
  • Richard Stephens, course manager, Vicars Cross Golf Club

Head to the BIGGA website to find out more about each of the delegates.

Michael Gibbons is course manager at Disley Golf Club. Reacting to being selected, he said: “Having spoken to numerous former delegates, it’s clear the BIGGA Delegation is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Being able to soak up all the US has to offer is an incredible personal opportunity but it could also be career-defining. The learning and networking opportunities will be second to none and I hope to get all that I can out of the experience. I feel incredibly fortunate to be one of the greenkeepers picked for it and cannot wait to get going in January.”

Fraser Jardine is deputy head greenkeeper at Trump Turnberry. He spoke of his pride at being selected as part of the team representing UK greenkeeping on a global scale and added: “I can’t wait to get over to Phoenix to meet people in the industry from around the world. I’m looking forward to learning about new technology and sharing ideas and techniques with others that I can bring back home with me. Thanks to BIGGA and Bernhard and Company for such an incredible, prestigious opportunity.”

The GCSAA Conference and Trade Show runs from 29 January to 1 February 2024. As part of their duties, the delegates will attend the BIGGA stand during the conference, speaking to visitors about the association and UK greenkeeping.

For more information about the exclusive career development opportunities available to BIGGA members, head to the BIGGA website.

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