The Golfing Season  –  2014

The start of the 2014 Golfing Season is almost upon us, preceded by the wettest winter since records began.
Winter projects had to be put on hold as the ground was too wet and soft to use any machinery or equipment. The high tides strengthened by gale force winds devastated the coastal sand dunes, and exposed the course to severe flooding. As the course drys out the delayed winter projects will be continued.
The new Greens Mower has achieved a vast improvement in the putting surfaces, and the extra set of cutting units has enabled more precise cutting to tees and approaches.
The transformation of the 3rd green, after the sand injection was and continues to be remarkable, and at some time in the future it would be beneficial to apply this treatment to other greens, particularly the 2nd, 7th and 9th.
Over 50 gravel sump holes were drilled and filled in the low lying areas of the course to enhance drainage. these worked well until the water table rose dramatically due to the record rainfall. We plan to excavate more gravel drains and gulley pots during 2014.
The removal of the pipe at the 2nd restricting the flow into Blea Beck will go ahead when conditions permit, and the work on the access path to the 6th green will soon be completed.
The Agronomic evidence of our policy of using only organic fertilisers, and reducing the amount of pesticides on the course is paying dividends in terms of playability and turf health, and it is our intention to extend this approach throughout all areas of the course.
It is hoped to continue with an aeration program on the fairways in the Autumn, using a large verti-drain.
We are seeking help and advice from all the authorities and organisations in respect of sea defences, however there would appear to be little or no financial help for such projects, and the club are considering several options which have been put forward
Weather permitting I look forward to putting plans into action, and continuing to improve the course for members and visitors.
Wishing you all a rewarding and successful golfing year.
Alan Sharp

Greenkeeper