Perfect golfing weather and much needed for the course, and this month the course has nearly dried out with minimal wet spots roped off.
We completed our Club Championships which I thought may not have been possible with how much rain the course received leading up to the event, and congrats to all the winners.
The greens are in good condition with no severe pest or fungal issues, and what a difference some sunshine does with managing low cut grass!
As mentioned all rough areas are now mowed and kept at a desired height, along with fairways and green surrounds.
Greens are rolling true and the growth has slowed down dramatically.
A few little jobs have been touched up, such as distance marker signs and plates painted, and steps repaired.
All seating areas cleaned and gutters cleared out and hazard line marking done.
The bunkers have been a huge issue this year with people not raking behind them after play. You will now see a few signs on our tees, and as a member if you see anyone in another group or even your own, politely remind them of the courtesy of raking their marks. The course staff do their best to hand rake all bunkers multiple times per week.
The big negative that always arises this time of year for our course is our tee conditions.
Firstly there are 11 of our tees that see only about 20% sunlight and that is just not enough to hold any type of good grass as these areas are being hit with divots and are struggling to recover this time of year without the help of warm weather. As you will see, the tees that are getting the sun are not struggling.
In the meantime, I have over sowed with RYE grass but this will help with grass coverage through winter only.
As we completed the 17th tee which was a success, we will continue to improve and rebuild new tees in the future. There are also tee markers that have been temporarily moved and placed in front short term to help with recovery.
We are also seeing a lot more golf than ever and this issue is becoming more noticeable.
Over the next month the boys will continue with weekly maintenance and begin repairing drainage work around the course. Will also be applying a fertilise application to all fairways and green surrounds.
ANDY BOSWELL – COURSE SUPERINTENDENT