Golf
“
We do not have grinders, so the cylinder sharpening requirements are outsourced, as well as some of the more complex repairs that are needed
James has undergone extensive training
over the years to keep him up to date with modern greenkeeping techniques and grounds management skills. “I have my NVQ level 2 in sports turf as well as the BTEC certificate in advanced sports turf management,” said James. “I also hold the NVQ level 3 certificate in advanced sports turf management, as well as the PA1, 2 and 6 spraying certificates.” Donaghadee is part links and part
parkland, providing 18 holes on a total area extending to 90 acres. The medal tees are 6,160 yards and the men’s tees are 5,904 yard with a Par 71. Along with Aaron and James, there are a further five staff who assist with the daily maintenance of the course. “Aaron has been here for nine years,” James comments. “Then we have Stewart Wallace who has been here twenty-six years, Philip Snellin, six years and Matt Hardy, who has four years service, two of which were spent as a trainee.” “We can also call on Gary Irvine for part time help as and when required and Owen McCleary, who helps out during the summer. All of the staff are excellent workers and get on well together in the team.”
If we were to fall behind with the verti-draining of the fairways due to unfavourable weather, then the contractors would be brought in straightaway to assist us
46 I PC AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2016 ” “Just recently, we had a member of the
greenkeeping team retire after thirty-eight years service,” said James. There is no dedicated workshop technician
employed at the club, but James can turn his hand to look after the machinery as well. “The main servicing is carried out in-house by me. We do not have grinders, so the cylinder sharpening requirements are outsourced, as well as some of the more complex repairs that are needed.” “We also have outside contractors that
come in as required to help out on the course. Horta Soils Ltd would be the main company we use as and when they are required.” “For example, if we were to fall behind with the verti-draining of the fairways due to unfavourable weather, then the contractors would be brought in straightaway to assist us. They also supply excavators or any other larger machinery that is required for any construction work we want to carry out on the bunkers or the greens.” The course changes from pure sand on the
holes that run alongside the shore to heavy clay on the inland side of the course. “Actually, half of the course is built on a
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