Equestrian


“


Separate flat and jumps tracks allow each to be renovated in the closed season


its smaller engine, which uses the latest emissions control technology.” Tractors play a vital role


however, with three John Deeres and a New Holland in the fleet, all shod on flotation tyres to minimise their impact on the turf. A John Deere 5310 has been


paired with the newest addition to the armoury, a McConnel PA4745 side arm mower. “As well as the racecourse, we


Parade ring upgrades are part of the ongoing developments


are responsible for the maintenance of the public area of the housing development and this little side arm is ideal for tidying up banks and ditches. All of the controls are electronic, so it’s nice and neat.” The John Deere 5410 was something of a bargain, being sourced from a farm where it was surplus to requirements, and does essential duties with a loader, although a Kubota digger is also available for materials handling.


The nine-hole golf course in


A pair of Jacobsen HR9016 wide area mowers take care of cutting courses and rough areas


the centre course was recently closed due to falling demand, but mowing machinery has been retained for deployment on fine turf areas such as lawns - with the cut heights raised! A Sisis Hydromain tool carrier


and its various attachments could also come in handy, suggests Richard, such as for pencil tining fence take-offs and landings. Used as water bowser, a


Major tanker towed by a tractor is an invaluable tool for dust suppression on the dirt service road and preventing dust clouds. Racecourse buildings reflect


The impressive estate yard 72 I PC FEBRUARY/MARCH 2017


the evolution of the sport and the demands of its audience. The central grandstand, built in 1993, retains a traditional elegance, whilst the Hampshire Stand, originally constructed in 1966, has been refurbished and


extended to offer a large glass- fronted restaurant. The newest stand is the Dubai Duty Free Grandstand which was built in 2000 with a further 500 seat restaurant. A vast tarmac area in front of


the stands gives crowds of 18,000 at the flagship meetings - such as the Al Shaqab Lockinge fixture - room to view racing from close quarters, have that essential bet and socialise in dry underfoot conditions. It also provides space for the post- racing concerts that have become an essential part of many tracks’ revenue. In 2015, a new phase of


developments began, with the construction of an impressive approach road bridge over the Great Western railway. Five more apartment blocks are being constructed on the eastern side of the course, along with a Nuffield Health centre. The final phases are the


construction of a new building which will house the racecourse offices, plus the Newbury Club, an owners’ and trainers’ facility, and upgrading of the pre-parade ring, to be completed by the summer. This will include new saddling boxes. A new electronic big screen is also in place and has the capability to rotate so that it can show promotional messages outside the course as well as racing coverage within. Throughout all the


developments, the familiar layout of the track has been preserved and continues to provide the amount of racing surface needed to run racing every month throughout the year.


The only real upheaval is


where construction traffic has needed to cross the horse walks from the racecourse stables to the parade ring - the surface has to be dug out and is reinstated


A certain amount of thatch is desirable as it helps to keep the turf together, but it needs to be managed


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