holes. This could involve a number of different tasks including topdressing, overseeding, aerating etc.
My eye soon adjusted to spotting the early signs
Whilst I was constantly encouraging the growth of new grass, it was very important to keep the already established grass alive. A main concern was ‘wilt’, and it was a constant battle to keep on top of this, although my eye soon adjusted to spotting the early signs. After a time I
got
to know ‘hole care’ really well and, because I was constantly observing the same two holes, it made it possible to fairly easily identify changes or
deteriorations, and deal with them quickly and effectively. Generally speaking I was left to make all the decisions about holes 1 and 9. However, course walks would be done every day and direction would be given, if necessary, but it was always nice to stay one step ahead of the game. For me the whole concept of ‘hole care’ was just excellent. It has definitely improved my attention to detail and given me an increased
sense of
pride in my work. This drove me to ensure that the two holes that were my responsibility were the very best that they could be.
It was like being the superintendent of my own small golf course
I benefitted greatly from ‘hole care’, I learned a great deal, especially about personal ‘ownership’ and responsibility. I learned how to manage my time and work as efficiently as possible. I found being given the responsibility very rewarding; to me it was like being the superintendent of my own small golf course. All the work for the
Masters was completed to an amazingly high standard, and the lead-up to the tournament, held in April 2010, was very exciting. A lot of hours had to be worked and a great team effort was needed and given. By the time it actually came to the Masters, it seemed rather surreal to me that my internship was about to end.
I have to find ways to be better than the competition
Now, more than ever, I realise that travel and networking are key parts of my career development. Being able to add the words ‘Augusta National’ to my CV is not just a thrill, but it can help open doors to many other
opportunities. Times may be tough at the moment, with tax increases and government cutbacks, and I know that I inhabit a small part of a very big world. As far as my career is concerned, I also know that a lot of good people will be competing for the better jobs, and I have to find ways to be better than the competition. I need to be better educated, better travelled and better prepared if I am to get the right jobs in the future. I also feel a great loyalty to my home club at Newquay, who have again permitted me to seek another sabbatical this coming winter. It is great that they want me to have the very best vocational education, networking opportunities and career prospects. I will always be grateful to the Newquay Golf Club for their fine example as employers, their encouragement and their operational flexibility. I was very sad to leave Augusta. I enjoyed my work there very much and made lots of great friends. I found leaving the most difficult part, but it was definitely the experience of a lifetime. I would recommend an internship like this to anyone who loves greenkeeping.
“Being able to add the words ‘Augusta National’ to my CV is not just a thrill, but it can help open doors to many other opportunities”
Abi Crosswood, First Assistant at Newquay Golf Club
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