Equestrian
Www.fornells.com
Fornells 10100 Running Rail
Fornells 10108 Running Rail
divots on other parts of the course are repaired with topdressing and seed. Simon will also undertake some relevelling on parts of the course, adding a considerable amount of soil and seed. Two applications of low
nitrogen compound fertiliser are applied during the growing season to stimulate root growth. A contractor is called in to
carry out selective weed control during the summer months when the weeds are most active. Particular attention is paid to areas of clover which can create a slippery surface if left to get out of hand. As for pest control, it is a case
of keeping an eye out for any leatherjacket activity or any outbreaks of turf disease. Red thread can be quite prolific at certain times of the year, but is easily controlled with a decent feeding programme. A timely programme of deep tining is undertaken around September time using their own Verti-Drain. Special attention is paid to take off and landing areas where the soil is prone to compaction. Other areas that require additional attention are the golf club’s fairways, which are prone to deep compaction due to the daily golf foot traffic. These areas also get scarified,
decompacted and overseeded to increase grass coverage. Roger will also regularly
aerate the course, when conditions allow, using a tractor drawn Sisis, spiking to a depth of 200mm.
During the summer, all the
fences are repaired and dressed up for the coming racing season. All are built by hand by Simon’s staff. The fences are completely renewed every other year with birch supplied from Yorkshire and spruce sourced locally.
This year, Simon has arranged
for the replacement of the permanent fences with new portable ones which allows mowing and repairs to be carried out more easily to take offs and landings. Each year, Simon gets an annual report from the STRI, who usually visit in March to take a number of soil samples, monitor grass density and generally inspect the course, looking for any problems in relation to compaction, weed and pest problems. A written report is then provided, giving advice and recommendations on relevant renovation, maintenance operations and fertiliser programmes that will benefit the course the following year.
On a personal note, Simon
has an interest in many sports. He loves watching rugby and, when time permits, tries to maintain a healthy 15 golf handicap. He has already managed a few rounds of golf after work and is developing a good working relationship with Michael Hughes, Ludlow Golf Club’s Head Greenkeeper. With Simon new at the helm, but with a huge understanding of the needs and aspirations of the trainers and owners, he will continue to work hard to improve the racing conditions. It would appear that Ludlow Racecourse have appointed well and the future looks very bright for this beautiful Shropshire racecourse.
Crowd Barrier & Gates
UK Distributers of Fornells Products 01748822666 / 07966529666
www.wattfences.com billwattfences@aol.com
Roger Jones PC JUNE/JULY 2015 I 119
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