Firstly, I would like to wish all of our members a Happy New Year from myself and the team. We are all very excited about the year ahead!
As we all know, technology in weather forecasts has moved on dramatically over the last few years, so with the big freeze predicted to hit in early December, we knew we had a small window of opportunity to cut all areas of the course and this was completed just in the knick of time.
Over the next week and a half, we had to deal with severe frosts and snow, and apart from a few scars, in these circumstances, the course held up very well.
Having the use of 18 temporary greens at least meant we were able to let anyone who wanted a game have a chance to swing the club and get a bit of fresh air!!
Unfortunately, the wet weather looks to continue into the New Year. We will endeavor to open as many greens as possible, but please bear with us as the large majority are still completely saturated from the recent heavy rain.
Throughout December we managed to also re-edge 90% of the bunkers and removed overhanging branches on the 2nd, 7th, 9th, 11th, 14th, 15th, 16th, and 17th tees.
Frustratingly, the last 50 sqm of turf to finish the 16th surround hasn’t been delivered by our supplier due to the frosts and water-logging of his nursery, but he has promised to deliver the turf as soon as it is possible to cut it.
Big Bash!
I would like to thank Simon Ferguson-Smith for inviting me to play in the event, I think it was a great success and extremely well supported. Even though we played on 18 temps in some dodgy weather, it shows what this game means to people!
Final thoughts.
Following last month’s update when we mentioned pitch marks, raking bunkers is the topic this month.
Over the 30 years of being a greenkeeper, I have definitely heard all of the excuses but I please ask that everyone makes an effort to rake at least any marks they make from playing from a bunker as it will help us keep our course in as pristine a condition as it can be!
Thank you all for your support, Happy New Year!
Matt Lock
Head Greenkeeper