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| Photo of work on the new fifth tee of the redesigned Wike Ridge championship course |
The last few weeks of severe wind and excessive amounts of rainfall – and more recently, several consecutive days of frost – are now taking their toll on the course.
We have combatted the resulting localised boggy areas and standing water on some greens and fringe areas/aprons by slit-tining and vertidraining but again, this work is very much dependent on ground conditions. Vertidraining is an essential activity which helps to prevent the structure of the turf and soil composition from firming up too much; the penalty for not undertaking this kind of work is that a host of possible problems are created eg poor drainage, lack of grass growth, unreceptive surfaces and exposure to disease.
During times of wet weather, can I please ask golfers to stick to semi-rough and rough-length grass when navigating the course – this will really help to protect the fairways and other closely-mown areas by keeping footfall down to a minimum.
Those of you having played in recent weeks will also have noted that temporary greens are in play when dictated by weather conditions or maintenance work. Although it is by no means preferable for any player, this strategy will minimise any damage to main greens and help to prevent disease – all of which is essential if we are to look forward to good putting surfaces in the early season. Can I please remind players that if a ball comes to rest on a main green during times when temporary greens are in play, it should be taken as GUR and appropriate penalty-free relief taken.
Unfortunately, the recent high winds mean that the greenkeepers have been continuing the arduous task of reinstating fallen transplanted trees. Several trees have been lost although the vast majority appear to have stood up well to the challenge.
As we are soon to start work on the second phase of changes to the Wike Ridge championship course, can I please urge all players to remain cooperative during what will be a period of disruption – rest assured that we will do everything we possibly can to ensure that 18 holes remain open at all times and that any temporary changes to hole length or otherwise are minimised.
Thanks very much – see you on the course soon.
Brian D Carr
Head Greenkeeper
