Course Update
A frustrating February started with 30% less sunshine than average because of the ‘Scandinavian High’ pressure weather phenomenon. This kept us in the cold, grey and gloomy conditions which we endured until the brief respite of the cold few days where sunny but frosty weather helped the course firm up. Unfortunately, that has given way to the return of stormy weather with high winds and 20mm of rain in the last few days. The Greens Team have been working hard through these testing conditions and there is positive news to report aa we all keep looking forward to the Spring which is getting closer every day!
The development work around the course has continued with the team making some finishing touches to the border by the 1st tee, installing new winter mat onto the 8th tee and lining and re-turfing around the renovated 3rd bunker.
The team will soon be installing another two new winter mats, on holes 7 and 15. This will nearly complete every tee and will be a big step toward a goal set in this winter’s development program.
As noted in the introduction the weather has not been ideal for course maintenance at times. When we did have the dry cold spell the team took the opportunity to get the course looking and playing very well. As we are in the the second full winter of the team having the two Ventrac mowers and hand machinery it is clear they are gaining more confidence with this kit and it is reflected in the work being done when conditions permit. Below are some pictures of the course taken earlier last week showing the benefits of hand mowing on the greens and aprons and how the Ventracs and recently refurbished fairway mower can really bring some definition to the course.
The Greens Committee will be meeting this week and the meetings between now end the end of April will set goals for the 2025/26 development and maintenance program. Detailed reports on these meetings are available via the minutes and the goals will also be shared with you in the next Course Updates.
Thank you