It’s fantastic to welcome the clocks going forwards with some great weather – not only because it’s just nice to see more people on the golf course but also because it’s important to get some early growth in the grass too. Long may it continue!
We spent much of last week top-dressing and spraying the greens with fungicide to protect against Fusarium, all of which is important work in preparing the putting surfaces for the onset of summer and the increasing traffic on our golf courses. Once the irrigation is turned back on – or if we receive some natural rainfall – we can soon commence the final stages of our greens maintenance programme by applying fertiliser to promote growth and a healthy sward.As we progress through the remainder of this week, we remain focussed on two key areas – completing the aeration work by vertidraining the fairways and ‘reinstating’ the course in light of the significant changes and redevelopment work we’ve witnessed over winter. Members and visitors have been extremely patient with us throughout the construction project and we remain committed to delivering the best possible Wike Ridge course for the start of the competitive season in just over a week’s time.
In terms of the course development work, we are now entering the final stages – the new bunkering is coming on at a tremendous pace, as is the finishing of our incredible new water features. Everyone is reminded that these areas are GUR at this time and this is something we wish to see observed at all times. Notwithstanding this point, anyone having played in the last month will no doubt be astounded at the scale and quality of the changes – it really is a turning point in the club’s future and one we are all very proud of.Can I just remind all players that the work of our greenkeepers is potentially hazardous – if there’s work taking place on a particular hole, we’d welcome your utmost care and attention in ensuring that the team stay safe! Once again, thank you – I look forward to seeing more of you on the course as the good weather (hopefully) continues!Brian D Carr
Head Greenkeeper
Head Greenkeeper
