Tag Archive for: John

Man City’s John Ledwidge Awarded Pioneer Mark 001 

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John Ledwidge Awarded Pioneer Mark #001: The Grounds Management Association (GMA) is pleased to award John Ledwidge Pioneer Mark #001 in recognition of his contributions to the industry.

The ‘Pioneer Legacy’ initiative celebrates individuals who have made a lasting impact on the industry through the GMA’s NextGen group, formerly known as the GMA Young Board.

John Ledwidge Awarded Pioneer Mark #001

John Ledwidge Awarded Pioneer Mark #001

Pioneer Mark

Each Pioneer Mark is uniquely numbered and represents the individual’s contribution to supporting the next generation of grounds people.

The presentation of John’s award is particularly timely during National Apprenticeship Week, which highlights the crucial role apprenticeships play in creating career pathways in the industry.

Ledwidge, himself, began his career as an apprentice at Coventry City Football Club and, after 18 months away, returned as Grounds Manager where he was also part of the first GMA Young Board cohort between 2011-2014.

As the group’s inaugural chair, he played a key role in laying the foundations for its evolution into GMA NextGen which supports and develops emerging talent within the industry.

Since his time with the Young Board, Ledwidge has progressed through senior positions at Leicester City Football Club and is now Head of Grounds and Landscapes at Manchester City Football Club.

What they said

Jennifer Carter, Director of Communications and Marketing at the GMA, said: “John’s journey not only with the GMA but within the industry highlights his dedication to the profession and his ability to inspire meaningful change.

As the first chair of the Young Board, he showed great leadership that set the foundation for GMA NextGen. Seeing his achievements recognised with Pioneer Mark #001 is a proud moment for everyone who has worked alongside him.”

Commenting on the award, John Ledwidge said: “It is a genuine honour to be awarded with the #001 pioneer mark from the GMA. As the first chair of the young board and part of the founding group, we created something that had never been done before, hopefully laying the foundations for today’s NextGen group to continue the legacy we left.

Personally, I feel we all have a responsibility to encourage and develop new and emerging talent and to share our knowledge and expertise with them. I have always been proud of what I do and will always be grateful for the opportunities this wonderful industry has given me and my family, so it is such a pleasure to receive this recognition from the GMA.”

For more information about the Pioneer Legacy initiative or GMA NextGen, please visit thegma.org.uk/who/ambassadors/.

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Increased collaboration between John Deere and Wiedenmann

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Increased collaboration between John Deere and Wiedenmann: Under a strategic marketing agreement covering the UK, Ireland and Europe, Wiedenmann turf equipment is available for purchase through John Deere dealerships. 

Global machinery manufacturer John Deere and turf maintenance specialist Wiedenmann will continue to share technology and work on development projects together under the agreement which was established in 2021.

Increased collaboration between John Deere and Wiedenmann

Increased collaboration between John Deere and Wiedenmann

The agreement has been extended to provide all John Deere dealers with access to the ever-growing Wiedenmann range of market-leading specialist machinery for turf maintenance and regeneration.

John Deere Division Sales Manager for Golf and Turf, Chris Meacock, said: “This partnership is beneficial to turf customers who want to access Wiedenmann’s catalogue of products through John Deere’s extensive dealer network.

“Wiedenmann products are routinely used with John Deere machinery so we see this as a natural fit. Our dealers are able to offer the same great service they provide for John Deere products with Wiedenmann machinery.”

Wiedenmann UK Sales Manager, Michael James, said: “I welcome the opportunity to continue to grow our company’s sales by supplying John Deere users with turf maintenance and regeneration solutions. I look forward to demonstrating the benefits of our innovative range to new and existing customers moving forward.”

Wiedenmann will exhibit a Terra Spike SL6 deep aerator on the John Deere stand at this year’s BTME event, taking place next week. The machine will be attached to a 2038R tractor fitted with GPS. This high precision aerator package utilises John Deere Precision Turf Technology which increases productivity and sports turf quality.

The John Deere team will be available at stand 222 at BTME in Harrogate from 21-23 January to provide further information.

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Royal St George’s, John Deere & Tuckwells strike major partnership

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Royal St George’s, John Deere & Tuckwells strike major partnership: The Royal St George’s Golf Club has confirmed a groundbreaking long-term partnership with John Deere and Tuckwells designed to take the course and its greenkeepers to new highs. 

The agreement will see 70 new pieces of machinery installed at the prestigious Kent venue by dealer Tuckwells, including a full cutting fleet, tractors and utility vehicles from John Deere alongside other essential groundscare equipment.

Royal St George’s, John Deere & Tuckwells strike major partnership

Royal St George’s, John Deere & Tuckwells strike major partnership

Greenkeepers will be given support from John Deere to complete a wide range of professional training and offered opportunities to travel to other world-renowned courses to grow their expertise.

The latest technology will be deployed across Royal St George’s with machinery connected by satellite and John Deere Operations Center PRO Golf course management software to assign and track the progress of every daily task.

Tuckwells will provide The Open venue with all equipment and deliver a full package of operator training as well as rapid parts back-up for essential maintenance for the duration of the initial five-year agreement.

John Deere Division Sales Manager for Golf and Turf, Chris Meacock, said: “The Royal St George’s Club has earned an incredible reputation worldwide and needs the best equipment and service to maintain that hard-earned recognition.

“We wanted to form a partnership that showed belief in our machinery and technology while also demonstrating a strong commitment to the operators who will use it daily.”

Colin Sinclair, Secretary at The Royal St George’s Club, said: “We have enormous pride in our course, not just the fairways and greens but our people and the facilities on offer.

“This is a partnership that will benefit the people who work here as well as golfers.

“We were extremely impressed with the whole package on offer from John Deere which will keep us at the cutting edge of greenkeeping technology, give our team the best tools for the job, and ensure that anyone who maintains our grounds has the opportunity to progress their career.”

As part of the agreement Tuckwells will provide extra machines and labour to support tournaments held at Royal St George’s.

The Club’s greenkeepers will also be offered the chance to travel to TPC Deere Run to help prepare the course for the John Deere Classic, or see first-hand how the TPC Sawgrass is set up for The Players Championship.

James Tuckwell, Dealer Principal at Tuckwells, said: “We are extremely proud and excited to be partnering with Royal St George’s and thank Colin, Head Greenkeeper Greig Easton, and the whole team for putting its trust in us and John Deere. It is an honour to be working with not only one of the region’s best clubs but one of The Open’s most iconic venues.

“We are looking forward to helping unlock the potential of the machinery and its technology to the benefit of the course and its members.”

Delivery of the new equipment will begin in 2025 for completion in Spring 2026. It includes the latest in John Deere’s innovation turf machinery including the recently released battery powered 225E walk-behind and 2775E riding greens mowers.

The course has also ordered two 2030A GPS sprayers which use satellite guidance for precision application of chemicals and fertilisers, reducing overlap and input costs.

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John Deere Introduces the New Gator™ XUV 875M

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John Deere Introduces the New Gator™ XUV 875M: John Deere has today announced the launch of its new diesel Gator™ XUV 875M utility vehicle. Designed to improve productivity across various tasks, the Gator XUV 875M offers increased cargo capacity, enhanced comfort, and improved functionality.

Key Specifications

The new Gator model’s key features include a 22.8 hp engine with a fuel tank volume of 42.4 litres, a seating capacity for three (suitable for off-road use), a cargo box capacity of 454 kg, and fully independent suspension with 203/229mm travel (front/rear).

John Deere Introduces the New Gator™ XUV 875M

John Deere Introduces the New Gator™ XUV 875M

Reliability and Comfort

The Gator XUV 875M builds on the reliability of previous models with an updated rear suspension design and tuned shock absorbers to enhance comfort. Key improvements include relocating the air intake 30 cm higher to ensure cleaner air intake, protecting the engine. Additionally, the new CVT (continuously variable transmission) air intake and exhaust system help draw cleaner air, protecting the system from debris, water, and mud.

Versatility

The redesigned cargo box of the Gator XUV 875M offers 13% more space than the XUV865M model, allowing for greater carrying capacity. Other key features of the cargo box are:

  • increased width to enhance cargo capacity and reduce mud sling
  • 12V SAE power port for added convenience
  • five divider slots on the side and three at the front to secure items
  • option to create a second level of storage
  • redesigned tailgate with a flat work surface, metric and imperial measurements, v-groove for cutting pipe, anti-gravity pockets, bump stops, and cup holders
  • integrated clamping points to secure items
  • fold-flat tie-downs in the front-middle and four corners of the load bed
  • tie-down pockets for securing loads that obstruct access to the D-rings inside the cargo box
  • four stake pockets on each side to accommodate stake pocket clamps for tool storage

Peter Nelder, John Deere Product Manager for Gator Utility Vehicles & Compact Utility Tractors in Europe, said on the new cargo box features: “The redesigned cargo box on the Gator XUV 875M is a very significant improvement, offering more space and functionality for our customers. The added width and integrated clamping points provide users with greater flexibility and convenience, making it easier to carry and secure a variety of items.”

The John Deere Gator XUV 875M utility vehicle will be available to dealers from spring 2025.

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John Deere introduces Z370R Electric ZTrakTM

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John Deere introduces Z370R Electric ZTrakTM: John Deere has introduced the Z370R Electric ZTrak mower to European markets.

This fully-electric, zero-turn mower is a forward-thinking addition to the company’s line up of innovative lawn care solutions.

John Deere introduces Z370R Electric ZTrakTM

John Deere introduces Z370R Electric ZTrakTM

Designed with a focus on sustainability and efficiency, it offers a powerful and eco-conscious alternative to petrol- or diesel-powered mowers.

The Z370R is powered by reusable energy, boasting zero operating emissions for a cleaner mowing experience.

With the ability to cover up to 8,000 square metres per charge, this mower provides reliable performance while reducing environmental impact. An onboard charger provides easy and convenient charging.

Built with durability in mind, the Z370R features a sealed 3.56 kWh (max. capacity) battery that is fully protected against elements such as water, dust, and debris (IP66 rating), ensuring reliable operation in various conditions. The mower’s design prioritises user comfort, offering a quiet and comfortable ride with reduced noise and vibration levels.

Plus, the Z370R Electric ZTrakTM model simplifies maintenance requirements by eliminating the need for oil changes, air filter replacements, and greasing.

With a large LCD screen and ergonomic controls, the mower provides intuitive operation and enhanced usability for an easy and effortless mowing experience.

Equipped with a either a 107cm or 122cm AccelTM Deep Mower deck, the Z370R delivers premium cut quality and performance, while durable front and side rails enhance the machine’s endurance for long-term reliability.

It has a mowing speed of up to 11km/h allows users to complete their lawn care tasks efficiently. For added versatility, optional attachments and accessories such as a material collection system, mulch kit, utility carts, and a magnetic hitch pin are available to customise the mower according to specific needs and preferences.

Backed by a five-year warranty on battery life or 200 hours of machine usage, the Z370R Electric ZTrak mower offers a reliable and efficient solution for users seeking a sustainable and user-friendly lawn care option.

Key figures

  • 3.56 (max. capacity) battery fully sealed
  • 107 or 122 cm AccelTM mowing deck
  • 8,000 m2 per full charge
  • 5 years or 200 machine hours warranty on battery life

• Mowing speed up to 11 km/h

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