Golf What’s in the shed?
John Deere 8800 rough cut mower
John Deere 2653A Triple utility mower
John Deere 2500A Greens triple mower
John Deere 3235C fairway mower
John Deere 220SL Precision Cut pedestrian greens mowers x2 Truturf greens iron Hardi boss sprayer
A typically undulating part of the course
UK, golf is experiencing a resurgence in Northern Ireland, which has much to do with the recent successes of their triumvirate of tour pros; Rory McIlroy, Graeme McDowell and Darren Clarke who, as well as winning majors, have helped inspire Europe to recent Ryder Cup successes. Indeed, the 2014 Ryder Cup captain, Paul McGinley, came from the country, as will the 2016 event’s captain, Darren Clarke. “They have popularised the sport on TV over here, as well, which means the expectations of our members are, understandably, raised. Whilst we are well thought of by 95% of our members, there will always be the odd person who thinks they know how to manage fine turf because they threw a bag of Miracle Grow on their garden at home with some success!” “The industry is growing and
expanding into every corner of the world, which is excellent news for people such as myself who have chosen a career in greenkeeping. Yet our profile remains low. As with everything nowadays, our work needs to be highlighted through well known faces on TV producing specialised documentaries which show the public how much work goes into producing what they see during their
An old verti-drain which has no make/model number visible
An old slitter which, again, has no make/model number visible
Ford 2120 tractor Groundsman 345HD pedestrian aerator Groundsman turf/sod cutter Flymo hover mower Honda strimmers x 2 Cushman topdresser Scotts/Everris spreader GreenTek verticutting attachments
“I am allocated a budget for general purchases, like fertiliser, pesticides etc., and tend to stay within budget for the year. Any additional machinery which might be required is recommended to council by myself and the greens committee. They make the final decision.
I’m a fan of John Deere’s equipment and service, so remain loyal to them, with the exception of Groundsman Industries, a local company who supply quality aeration equipment.
round on a Saturday morning. It’s worked for other professions, so why not ours?” Richard concludes by saying:
“Presentation is vital, I am always reminding the boys that tidiness costs nothing and, even if there is only one small area of the course looking substandard, it will be noticed.”
Having spent a goodly number of years living and working in the USA at the Ohio State University, Mike O’Keeffe is still very ‘Irish’ in both his manner and his boundless enthusiasm.
DIAMOND GEEZERS
MIKE O’KEEFFE - THE ‘TOP’ MAN
His official title is Program Manager & Alternate Responsible Officer; we’ve still not worked out what the last bit means but, suffice to say, Mike is the go to person for all young turfcare professionals looking to further their careers.
As long as the applicant has the desire and commitment, Mike will ensure that he or she receives the
We purchase machinery a variety of ways. The John Deere 2500b was bought brand new from Johnstone and Gilpin, whilst the JD 8800 was purchased secondhand. If a good deal comes up we are always interested. Improving our machinery is at the forefront of our minds, and should be for all course managers.
We do all servicing ourselves, with the exception of cylinder grinding which is outsourced.
We hire in a 3 tonne digger at times to help with renovation projects, and this is operated by myself and the boys.
What would my wish list include? Just to modernise our equipment to eliminate downtime, which is a regular occurence at the minute.”
finest on the job training anywhere in the world, usually at a leading venue. He’ll even help with onward placement, as William Evans, now plying his trade in India thanks to the Top program, will testify;
“Throughout my time in the States, Mike was always there to support and advise, or help with visas, housing etc. I cannot recommend this programme highly enough to any young greenkeeper out there who wants to develop their career.”
We couldn’t have put it better ourselves. A TOP man indeed.
PC APRIL/MAY 2015 I 45
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