Newslines Summer 2018

News for Turfcare Professionals . Summer 2018 news lines

Cover Story

Three cheers for five years

It’s a Total Toro Solution for Ham Manor pages 02-03

PRODUCT TEST REELMASTER 3555-D The sporting choice for wide area mowing? James de Havilland finds out pages 04-05

HOME OF ENGLISH GOLF TRUSTS TORO AGAIN Fourth five-year exclusivity agreement for Woodhall Spa page 06 RESULTS FOR ROCHESTER ‘Satisfying’ results from Toro for Rochester and Cobham Park Golf back page

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Toro had everything we needed including first class support which is an essential component of the whole process.

Paul Brown Course manager, Ham Manor Golf Club

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Cover The new Reelsmaster 3575-D and irrigation in action in front of the Manor House. 01 Toro Infinity sprinklers have been installed on the academy area and new 18th hole.

Total Toro Solution for HamManor

02 Paul Brown, left, with Reesink’s Jon Cole.

03 The Multi Pro Workman sprayer at the 18-hole course.

Five-year machinery lease deal and new irrigation system for club

microclimate. Out of ten we’re an 11 when it comes to how much grass growth there is here. We could easily cut the fairways five days a week and still have work to do!” Add to that the general trend of combination of Toro’s Reelmaster 3575-D and Greensmaster TriFlex 3400: “We can struggle to get equipment on the course, but the RM3575-D is light with a larger footprint, and its three-wheel design and turf-friendly tyres mean we can rely on it to not damage the ground. Both machines make light work of the amount of grass.” “When I started here there was a ‘mix and match’ range of kit, and this batch of machines are like-for-like replacements of those while we begin the process of investing in one manufacturer for the majority of our equipment. When our existing lease arrangements have run their course, the intention is to renew the entire fleet in one package. I feel this is the most cost-effective way to bring reliable machinery management to the club.” Complementing the machinery lease deal, Ham Manor has completed phase one of its irrigation installation. This is a three- phase process to renew the entire system. Back to back Toro Infinity sprinklers have already been installed on the club’s new academy area and brand new 18th hole and up next is a Toro Lynx central control system and then Infinity sprinklers, back- to-back on the greens, tees, aprons and partial fairways of the 18-hole course. Paul says: “Replacing our irrigation system is the biggest single investment the club will make in the next 30-40 years. Due diligence was essential in the evaluation wetter winter months and it’s clear to see why Paul has opted for the

Five years is a long time and committing to anything for that length of time is a big thing, which is why a five-year exclusivity agreement is not something that should be undertaken lightly. Trust and confidence are key components, and Ham Manor Golf Club is convinced it has the best combination in Reesink Turfcare and Toro. Paul Brown, who has been course manager at the West Sussex club for two years, says it was the right time to commit, but the big decision was to whom? “You place a lot of trust in your package partner and ask a lot from them so it’s important to feel comfortable they can deliver. I’ve previously used Toro equipment and I had no doubt that Toro would deliver for us here at Ham Manor, but the primary drivers behind this decision were the trust and confidence we have in Reesink’s area retail sales manager Jon Cole and Toro’s unequivocal reliability. “You put your reputation on the line when you embark on this sort of package deal. It’s a massive financial commitment over a long period of time, and you’ve got to be sure you’re not going to be let down. I hadn’t felt the time was right to make that sort of commitment, until now.” In the order are a Reelmaster 3575-D, Greensmaster TriFlex 3400, two Workman MDX-D and one Workman HDX utility vehicles, the Multi Pro Workman sprayer and ProPass 200 topdresser. These machines add to the Reelmaster 3100-D and two Groundsmaster 360 Quad-Steers acquired over the last 18 months. Positioned where it is nestled between the coast and the South Downs, Ham Manor is a parkland course a mile away from the sea, which Paul says: “has its own

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process and we were thorough in our research. We viewed all the major brands and even travelled overseas visiting factories to see how sprinklers are made, but when it came down to it, Toro had everything we needed, including first class support from Rob Jackson which of course, is an essential component of the whole process.” It’s common sense that when making an irrigation decision to consider sustainability too. With that in mind a new irrigation lake has been built and a borehole installed and Paul is actively investigating running grey (roof) water into the lake to further enhance the club’s ability to be less dependent on a mains water supply. That, however, is a story for another day and we look forward to bringing you the latest at Ham Manor when phase two of the irrigation installation commences!

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PRODUCT TEST Toro Reelmaster 3555-D/3575-D by James de Havilland

The sporting choice for wide area mowing?

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Employing a ‘traditional’ ride-on fairway mower for the care of sports turf can mean a compromise needs to be made between output and machine size against versatility and manoeuvrability. With their 2.5m cut width Reelmaster 3555-D and 3575-D mowers, Toro offers a mowing choice that could be an ideal solution. Benefitting from the compact design and lightweight attributes of its narrower 2.1m cut-width Reelmaster 3550-D and 1.83 or 2.16m Reelmaster 3100-D Sidewinder models, the Reelmaster 3555-D and 3575-D could well be the ideal wide area champ for versatile sports turf mowing. Here James de Havilland has the privilege of putting the machines through their paces at Bristol City Football Club’s Failand training ground. Before taking a closer look at the five-inch reel Reelmaster 3555-D and its seven-inch reel brother, the 3575-D, here’s a top view of the four things that set these lightweight fairway mowers apart. First up is the three-wheel traction unit, a low centre of gravity and wide track promising balance between stability and manoeuvrability. Second is the power unit, the three-cylinder Kubota diesel engine of these models developing a maximum of 24.8hp, while a more traditional wide area mower, such as the 2.54m four-wheel Reelmaster 5410-D, has a nominal 35hp engine. The third point, is weight. These three-wheel mowers have a weight that is 20 per cent lighter than a comparably equipped Toro four-wheel drive fairway machine. And in fourth place is speed. Toro claims the Reelmaster 3555-D and 3575-D can mow at speeds of up to 7mph/11.3 km/h. The combined relevance of these points is that these mowers are nearer the class

below in terms of agility, power and weight, but up with the class above in terms of potential performance. For those charged with the maintenance of sports turf, this combination of potential performance and agility could prove a real plus. Add the choice of cutting units to suit the varied needs of winter and summer sports turf, and it is clear these models have a far broader appeal than a more traditional ‘fairway’ model. Equally those who take care of high status park and amenity turf could well benefit from taking a look at these mowers too. For some, however, there will be questions relating to the three-wheel traction unit, or lack of traction unit as some may suggest. This will be further compounded by Toro fitting 22x12-12 4ply ‘no tread’ tyres as standard. Show one of these mowers a slippery slope and it could possibly be ‘game over’, but not necessarily for a qualified operator. Inflated to a modest 12psi, or 0.83bar if you prefer, these slick tyres are soft enough to optimise their respective contact patches to ‘grip’ more than their slick surface may suggest. Another point is that a ‘tricycle’ layout will always have all the wheels in firm contact with the ground. Add all-wheel traction, and one of these mowers could well scale slopes a lot better than some treaded tyre alternatives with four-wheels and 2WD. This is not to suggest a 3555-D is the mower of choice to mow embankments, but more that these mowers should be easily able to cope with UK sports turf environments. The most important element of any mower will clearly be the cutting units, and the DPA cylinders of all Toro Reelmasters have an established reputation for quality of cut. The 3555-D and 3575-D are fitted as standard with the latest EdgeSeries cylinders, which were developed by Toro to stay ‘on-cut’ for longer. In practice, those charged with the care of these mowers should find a well-thought through regime of routine backlapping see a reduced

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01 A tight scuff free turn when cutting a diamond pattern is a tricycle mower's unit strength, the pictured Reelmaster 3555-D takes little room to turn back on itself. 02 Drive to the cutting units is stopped as the units are raised out of work, with enough time for the cylinders to clear clippings before they stop completely. This helps reduce clumps of dropped clippings at the headland. frequency in the need for relief cylinder grinding between existing and EdgeSeries cylinders. What is less obvious is that Toro has also refined the design of its DPA units, with low friction bearings reducing power consumption. When this is combined with a lighter mower and a smaller engine, the net result should be a general reduction in overall fuel consumption. When fuel prices are high, any saving in fuel will have a decent impact upon operating costs. As with any machine appraisal, the key recommendation is that those charged with sports turf maintenance keep an open mind to different mowing options. With increased pressure on resources and skilled labour, any item of equipment that can deliver enhanced performance without compromising cut quality has to be worth a look.

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Toro Reelmaster 3555-D / 3575-D FIRST IMPRESSIONS

03 EdgeSeries cylinders have been fitted to the DPA cutting units in Toro Reelmaster cylinder mowers for a couple of years, with the key aim of being able to remain on cut for longer. The bearings employed on Toro mowers offer reduced friction that in turn lead to lower power and with it lower fuel consumption. 04 Clippings box and rear roller brushes are offered on all 3555-D and 3575-D models. Click-stop cylinder to bedknife adjusters can speed up resetting the cylinder after backlapping.

Mowing the well maintained and beautifully presented turf at Bristol City’s academy and training ground was of course something of a treat, and hardly a test of the Reelmaster 3555-D’s abilities. There was, however, no need to worry that the mower would not be up to the task of replicating the existing finish, especially with their lightweight ‘balloon’ tyres, which enable them to glide across pristine pitches and training fields with ease. From the operator seat, the answer is pretty much what you would expect from any Toro ‘fairway’ mower. For a start, it's quiet. The Reelmaster’s 24.8hp Kubota diesel engine has a subdued exhaust that in-turn mode makes the wearing of ear defenders unnecessary, if not still recommended for long mowing stints, and for safety reasons. The second point to note is the steering. On the straight, maintaining a line is not a problem, while in turn the mower’s ability to ‘rotate’ on the headland is a real plus, making it much easier to spin around for a fast return to work when doing a diagonal diamond cut.

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Machine spec:

Engine: 24.8hp (18.5kW) Kubota diesel

Fuel capacity: 28.3 ltrs

Weight: RM3555-D 2280lbs (1034kg), RM3575-D 2550lbs (1156kg) Transport speed: forward 0-10mph (0-16.1km/h), reverse 0-3.5mph (0-5.6km/h)

Mowing speed: 0-7mph (0-11.3km/h)

Cutting unit cylinder diameter: 3555-D 5in (127mm) 3575-D 7in (178mm)

Cutting width: 100ins (2.5m)

Height of cut: 8-blade recommended range 0.25-1.0ins (6-25mm), 11-blade recommended range 0.25-0.75ins (6-19mm)

Warranty: 2-year limited warranty

Noise output to operator / bystander: 84dB(A)/73dB(A) at 7.6m

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Woodhall Spa trusts in Reesink and Toro once again Kit: Reelmaster 3100-D, Greensmaster 3250-D, Reelmaster 5010-H, Greensmaster TriFlex Hybrid 3420, Groundsmaster 4300-D and two Workman GTX utility vehicles. Coinciding with its three-year restoration project to return the course back to its original heathland appearance, Woodhall Spa Golf Club has signed its fourth five-year exclusivity agreement with Reesink and Toro, saying it was the complete package offered by Reesink that sealed the deal. Sam Rhodes, courses manager for 12 years and at the Lincolnshire club for 23 years, says: “We signed on again for everything Reesink offers, but especially the back-up and service. We’ve really enjoyed building a relationship with Fineturf Machinery, the new dealer for the area, too, which played a part in the decision.” Leading architect Tom Doak is overseeing the restoration project, which has become known as being one of the biggest in-house renovation projects in the UK. Sam says: “Working alongside Natural England we’ve removed a large number of trees to allow the site to regenerate and restore the course to its original heathland state. Not only is this important work to maintain our course as a Site of Special Scientific Interest, but the removal of some vegetation and scrub will open up the course and provide new strategy for the players, who in recent years were having to play around the encroaching trees.” With these site changes come new requirements from the machinery maintaining the course, as Sam explains: “Things are different with this order. We have different requirements with regards to the finish and feel we’re after, we’ve moved away from rotary

mowers, opting for cylinder mowers instead. The DPA cutting units of the Reelmaster 3100-D were a real draw as they hold adjustments well and give us the tightness of cut around the heathland landscape.” Included within the renovation work is the repositioning of some tees which the Greensmaster 3250-D is tasked with looking after, says Sam: “The Greensmaster 3250-D is good for mowing near bunkers thanks to its triangle wheel stand. In this project we’ve reopened old bunkers, reshaped many of the existing ones and built new ones. We’ve always been renowned for our bunkers and this work ensures we maintain that reputation. “The project as a whole will ensure we retain our status as one of the ‘Top 100 courses in the world’, and the decision to stick with Toro for another five years ensures we will maintain the course, in its refreshed form, to the standards for which we’ve been known for the last 15 years.”

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Residual value and Reesink reliability seal the deal for Toro at Orsett Golf Club Kit: Greensmaster TriFlex Hybrid 3420, Reelmaster 3575-D, Groundsmaster 3500-D, Groundsmaster 4000-D, two Reelmaster 3100-D mowers, a Multi Pro 5800-D, GreensPro 1260 and a ProCore SR72 aerator. Orsett Golf Club in Essex has long been a Toro customer and plans on keeping it that way for the next four years as it signs its third lease deal with Reesink Turfcare. This is thanks to Toro putting in the hours and keeping its residual value, as well as having Reesink supporting it with back-up. Set over 112 acres of undulating heathland, the par 72 Championship course has a demanding layout of over 6,600 yards, and as a result the machines are expected to work hard, as course manager Perry Lowe explains: “This is a really big course and the machines are used heavily. Toro gives us a good amount of hours yet keeps its residual value, which is an important factor in our four-year machinery replacement programme. In the last four years, we’ve had hardly any issues, but the peace of mind we get from having Reesink for backup should we need it is really important. “When Reesink took over as distributor for Toro three years ago, we wondered if things were going to change and if it would affect how things work. But we’re more than happy with the customer service, the speed with which any problems are dealt with is incredible – the next day and it’s sorted.” This latest four-year deal includes the Greensmaster TriFlex Hybrid 3420, Reelmaster 3575-D, Groundsmaster 3500-D, Groundsmaster 4000-D, two Reelmaster 3100-D mowers, a Multi Pro 5800-D, GreensPro 1260 and a ProCore SR72 aerator. Perry concludes: “It’s important we maintain course standards for our members. The results we get from Toro and Reesink have grown better every year and that is why we stick with them time after time.” 02

It’s vital to have the right back-up and support. There’s no question Reesink

and Fineturf are the best choices to partner us on this journey.

Sam Rhodes, course manager

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01 From left to right: Reesink’s Nigel Lovatt and Trevor Chard, Woodhall Spa’s general manager Richard Latham, sales manager for Fineturf Machinery Tom Moor and Woodhall Spa’s courses manager Sam Rhodes.

02 Course manager Perry Lowe, left, with Reesink’s Richard Freeman and the club’s latest fleet.

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810 ltrs collect

DIRECT COLLECTOR

Width of cut: 126cm (49.6ins)

Machine Focus ProLine H800

Toro’s ProLine H800 is revolutionising clipping clear-up. It allows you to keep turf looking spotless thanks to its whopping 810 ltrs direct collect feature which means you can mow more by stopping less. There are so many unbeatable benefits such as increased productivity thanks to its impressive mowing rate of 12,000m 2 per hour and high performance cutting system that delivers an exceptionally clean cut. The 41 ltrs fuel tank allows you to do a full day’s work without stopping, which means less downtime, and a 1950mm maximum dump height means the clean-up of clippings is even easier. Just two examples of how quick and easy this mower is to use and maintain is that height of cut adjustment is possible from the operator’s seat, and there’s easy access from the tilting deck to the blades making daily clean-up a breeze. Adding to its productivity when it comes to clippings collection is the Smart AirFlow system to maximise collection performance and an active full collector sensor with automatic deck shut off to prevent overfilling – so no more stopping to check. In a nutshell, when time is of the essence, this hardworking mower minimises input and maximises output.

Transport speed: 0-15kmph (9.3mph)

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The ProLine H800 really comes into its own for the maintenance of sports fields and training grounds. The Smart AirFlow system allows it to ‘hoover’ up not just grass clippings, but all sorts of debris playing and training produces.

Specification

Engine Yanmar 3-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine

Fuel capacity 41 ltrs (10.8gal) diesel

Tyres Front: 23 x 10.5-12; rear: 18 x 7.5-8 turf tyres

Jeff Anguige National sales manager, Reesink Turfcare

Transport speed 0-15kmph (9.3mph)

Cutting width 126cm (49.6ins)

Height of cut 20-110mm (0.8-4.3ins)

Mowing rate Up to 12,000m 2 /hr (3 acres/hr)

Collector capacity 810 ltrs (214gal)

Maximum dump height:

Maximum dump height 1950mm (76.8ins)

1950mm (76.8ins)

Height Up to 2070mm (81.5ins)

Transport speed: 0-15kmph (9.3mph)

Length 2910mm (114.6ins)

Width 1430mm (56.3ins)

Weight 980kg (2160lbs) with deck Warranty Two-year limited warranty

Product literature at reesinkturfcare.co.uk

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The Roundup

And that’s down to the quality of the machines, as Simon explains: “It’s been said many times before, but you really do notice the difference when it comes to Toro. The quality of cut and reliability it offers makes a big difference to the way we do our job; it’s so much easier now. “Investment reflects and demonstrates the value placed on the work we do. It’s been great to see the way the team has responded, and how much more enjoyable and less frustrating the work is.”

45-hole three course club.

Lease deal Toro at the fore at North Foreland

Partnership agreement Every day is tournament day at Blairgowrie

Steven says: “We’ve a lot of golfers and competitors who expect the highest of standards. We knew that by choosing Toro and Reesink, we were ensuring a proactive relationship to consistently provide great course conditions while managing costs at all times.”

Fairways Don’t judge a fairway by its colour Course manager Alister Matheson at Cruden Bay Golf Club, the traditional Scottish links course in Aberdeenshire, and his team are proud to present their perfect example of firm and fast undulating natural links fairways, back after five years thanks to a particularly dry end to spring. The grass looks like this when the ground is dry and there is little moisture for the plant so it goes dormant. When enough rain comes (which it undoubtedly will!) the grass will come out of dormancy and its familiar green colour will return. The performance of Toro’s Reelmaster 5410-D mowers on these fairways – whatever colour they are! – is preferred over all others. Alister comments: “The first thing I noticed about the Reelmaster was the way it handled the ground. The course follows the original lie of the land to great Ten newmachines are scoring ten out of ten for results at North Foreland Golf Club in Broadstairs, Kent. The lease deal, the club’s first, marks a change in strategy by course manager Simon Grand, who joined the club two years ago, and greens chairman Mark Strand as Simon explains: “The frontline machinery was suffering from under investment and the number of breakdowns we were having were coming at a significant cost. “This investment, which is spread over five years, has solved all our equipment issues. It’s made us competitive and efficient, and the change in the presentation of the courses is undeniable – members noticed a difference within weeks.”

Every day is tournament day at Blairgowrie Golf Club in Perthshire, Scotland, says managing secretary, Steven

Morgan, and for that reason the club has invested in a partnership agreement with Toro. Steven explains: “We decided to invest in Toro to ensure we constantly improve the playability of our courses. We believe that every day here is tournament day and the time, effort and attention to detail when setting up the courses reflects this belief, as do the machinery choices we make.” 2018 sees the Scottish Amateur Championship, European Amateur Golf Tour and the PGA Lombard Pro Am arrive at the

Toro leaves a fine finish to give great job satisfaction.

Steven Morgan, managing secretary

01 Course manager Simon Grand on the Greensmaster TriFlex 3400 with new Toro golf ball protection cage, and Reesink’s Richard Wood 01

02 The fleet at Blairgowrie is "easy to set, maintain and use," says managing secretary Steven.

The game of golf originated in Scotland and this is the way links courses should look in the spring. Many overseas golfers, especially Americans, love this set up for links golf because it represents how the sports should be played in the natural environment. David Raitt, Reesink sales manager, pictured left below with course manager Alister Matheson

effect and as a result the fairways have a few humps and hollows. This didn’t pose a problem; its quality of cut was by far the best and we decided to buy two.” Now that the fairways are sorted, Alister is working towards a new Toro irrigation system for installation this winter on the greens, tees and approaches, which will ensure precise irrigation of the course even in its windy, exposed location.

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As mentioned, first up is a Toro Groundsmaster 4000-D, which Jason had the pleasure of using extensively at his previous club, Saffron Walden Golf Club in Essex: “I have experience with most machinery brands and for me the Toro GM4000-D is the number one rough mower. We had just replaced like-for-like at Saffron Walden, so when I arrived at Yeovil and spotted the gap for a rough mower I turned straight to Toro and the GM4000-D again.” Jason didn’t have to wait long, Elliot Wellman from local Toro dealer, Devon Garden Machinery, was on site by Jason’s second day to discuss what was needed to join the two Toro Greensmaster TriFlex 3400 mowers, a Groundsmaster 3500-D, two Workman MDX-D utility vehicles, a Workman with ProPass 200 topdresser, a Workman with Toro 200 sprayer, a Reelmaster 5610-D, and last but not least a Reelmaster 3100-D already helping to move the club forward.

Rough mower New course manager for Yeovil but Toro stays Yeovil Golf Club in Dorset has long been a Toro customer and that remains the case with the arrival of new course manager Jason Connaughton who, within days of his arrival, placed his first order for a Toro Groundsmaster 4000-D. Jason says it was an exciting time to join the 27-hole parkland course as the club was undergoing a management restructure. He says: “The club is in a very exciting position. There has been a management restructure and we are working together to move the club forward in a positive way. Plans to buy in new machinery are well supported, and we are all in agreement that investment should focus on our number one asset: the course.” 03 Course manager Jason Connaughton, right, with Elliot Wellman from dealer Devon Garden Machinery on the left and club secretary Chris Huggins.

Q&A With Lee

What’s the difference in looking after grounds which play home to

Fortis, head groundsman

county and international matches? Internationals are of course very special

at the Kia Oval, home to Surrey County Cricket Club and the England cricket team.

occasions – last year’s ICC Champions Trophy final between India and Pakistan, for example, had a global TV audience of a billion people. But we put in the same preparation and targets for that as any other game. Does your day ever throw you any surprises? All the time! But with experience I’ve learnt to worry about these less and just get on and deal with it. There’s no manual for cricket groundsmanship and everybody’s circumstances are different. What works in our situation may not work in someone else’s, so it’s important to be flexible in your work and willing to try new techniques. What do you like most about your job? I consider cricket groundsmanship more of a lifestyle than an actual job, and I especially enjoy working outdoors. What’s your favourite bit of Toro kit, and why? The two bits of kit which have made the most impact at the Kia Oval are the Toro ProCore 648 and Toro Greensmaster TriFlex. When I first arrived, the outfield had poor drainage and lacked presentation. These machines have made a definite impact on reducing consolidation, as well as improving infiltration rates and the presentation.

When India played Pakistan in the ICC Champions Trophy final 2017 a global audience of up to a billion tuned in to watch play take place at one of the most historic sports clubs in the world – the Kia Oval. So what’s daily life like for Lee with so many eyes on his work? Our working days vary depending on the time of year and whether we have a game or training session. Until recently all Surrey County Cricket Club 1st XI training sessions took place at the Kia Oval, but now we have a separate facility in New Malden for non-match day training. Match day and training days are pretty structured involving the removal of covers, erection of practise nets and cutting the whole ground. Talk us through a typical working day. What is the biggest challenge you face? Providing a surface which allows for a good contest between bat and ball, and is entertaining for the paying public. This is what all our preparation and maintenance work is designed to achieve. Occasionally we don’t meet this and then the challenge is getting yourself back up to succeed again.

Dealer network expansion Demand for TYM

Further strengthening the geographical availability of

the TYM product, TYM’s dealer network has expanded to include KJ Stoneham and Rafferty Newman in 2018. Providing both dealers’ customer bases with a comprehensive compact tractor range, the appointments extend TYM’s coverage in mid and north Devon and West Sussex. The simple reason behind the appointments is to meet the demand for supply TYM is experiencing as customers, specifically private estates,

small holdings and farms, hear about TYM’s growing popularity. Commenting on the significant growth of the brand in the past year, Reesink's Steven Haynes says: “Our expansion is based on the demand we’re finding in the marketplace for a reliable, quality tractor for a wide range of jobs. It’s great to know that our products are reaching a wider market and benefitting even more customers.”

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at work Irrigation Solutions

Financed irrigation raises club’s profile

Jonathan. “We take moisture metre readings to identify where water is needed and adjust individual sprinkler heads accordingly, targeting areas with reassuring success. “We are one step ahead with our new Toro system rather than on the back-foot with our previous one. As opposed to fighting fires just to keep the grass alive we are now able to focus on keeping the plant in optimum health, and will be able to do so for as long as I’m a greenkeeper, and then some.”

sprinklers for the tees, greens and approaches, which replaced a 40-year-old irrigation system struggling with constant leaks and breakages. In fact, Jonathan attributes the club’s ever- increasing reputation to the success of the ‘Total Solutions’ package it now boasts with its Toro irrigation system and fleet of machinery. Jonathan says: “A new irrigation system is no light investment, but in this competitive industry we recognised the need for modern technology to stay at the top of our game. Miles ahead of anything we’ve ever had before, choosing the Toro Lynx system was a big statement from us saying ‘this is where we want to be heading.’” Gone are the days of fixing leaks, and with peace of mind that the club has water on demand: “The main beauty of the system is the accuracy it affords us,” says

Coventry Hearsall Golf Club is one of the first clubs to benefit from Reesink Turfcare’s fixed term finance for irrigation. Buying irrigation on finance takes away two of the biggest headaches Reesink Turfcare finds exist for those embarking on a new irrigation system: installation is sooner and there is less upfront capital outlay. Brett Mander, Coventry Hearsall’s course chairman, says: “Reesink won us over with their presentation, which gave us confidence that its package and aftercare support would best suit the needs of the club. Out of all the suppliers, Reesink offered the most flexible solution over a period of time that matches our investment and growth strategy at Coventry Hearsall.” Course manager Jonathan Oldknow, pictured below, says he is ‘delighted’ with the new Toro Lynx system including

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01 Brett Mander, left, and Reesink's Robert Jackson shake on the successful deal.

02 Course manager Jonathan Oldknow is “delighted” with the new system.

Our Toro ‘Total Solutions’ package has been instrumental in helping us to maintain and elevate our reputation as a premier golf club in the Midlands. Word is out about the quality of our greens and our membership is now full with a waiting list; put simply, the package has been successful in making us successful.

Brett Mander, course chairman

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Competitive fixed-term finance

Reesink Turfcare is the first distributor in the UK to offer customers fixed term finance on its irrigation products. Available over one to seven years on Toro irrigation control systems and sprinklers, and lake aeration products from Otterbine, it offers customers the chance to invest now in the best irrigation systems and ensure their golf course is maintained to the highest standards. Flexible and transparent, Reesink’s strong relationship with a proven financial partner means it can offer some very competitive deals over one to ten years. Payment plans can be monthly, quarterly, or annually and clubs can finance through hire purchase or lease.

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Four guys made fast work of completing the install in just one and half weeks, with no disruption to golfers or our maintenance programme.

OTTERBINE DIFFUSES THE SITUATION Two years ago, Frilford Heath near Oxford, had an Otterbine Air Flo 3 diffuser installed in its 6m deep, 10-million-gallon reservoir. Three months in and the results had impressed course manager Sid Arrowsmith, above. Here we catch up on what happened next: “We always knew this was a long-term and challenging project, and the diffuser had its work cut out. The water had an inordinate amount of organic mixture in it, and the silt and sediment at the bottom of the reservoir hadn’t seen daylight for ten years. “We experienced, as anticipated, algal growth; the surprise was how much!” But the Air Flo 3 kept busy and Sid “never once doubted” it was up to the job. The water now is crystal clear again and while Sid is under no illusion that another algal bloom is possible, the diffuser is ready for the challenge. “There is more oxygen in that reservoir than ever before and the water is in the best possible position to counteract another algal bloom.” Meantime, the water is being used all over the course, doing exactly what Sid intended: it’s made 10-million-gallons of water ready to use and given the club a degree of self- sufficiency it hasn’t experienced before. And as Sid, a greenkeeping veteran, says: “greenkeeping wouldn’t be greenkeeping without a few challenges along the way!” So, at what saving does this come? “Back in the very dry summers of ‘94, ‘95 and ‘96, we were spending £25,000 a year irrigating the course off the mains. It’s literally a fraction of that now. The only thing we use mains water for is washing the turf machinery and toilet facilities.”

John Smith, course manager

Double irrigation renovation for Breadsall Priory

Reesink, especially Peter Newton and Cevan Edwards, we discovered we only needed to upgrade the two control systems and have saved a lot of money thanks to renovating rather than replacing.” Having been witness to how well Lynx performs, John decided to add to the renovation project by upgrading the sprinklers, too. The perfect partner to Lynx, Toro Infinity sprinklers have replaced the sprinklers across multiple greens on the Championship Priory Course, and John has decided he says: “to

phase an Infinity upgrade on all of the greens over the next few years.” With the successful renovation behind it, Breadsall is looking to further innovate the way it irrigates the courses: “Using Lynx and Infinity from April has already made the quality of our turf far better. We want to extract water from our lake to irrigate the courses and, given the great experience we’ve just had with Reesink, we will be working with them again to improve our lake’s water quality with an Otterbine aerator.” movement, eliminating dwell points and subsequent pooling, ensuring even distribution. And it’s not just the sprinklers that can be upgraded, Turf Guard in-ground moisture sensors and Lynx control system software can be integrated into existing irrigation systems, too. Some have credited Toro’s Lynx control system with bringing industry buzzwords 'interchangeable' and 'future-proof' irrigation to life.

Breadsall Priory Marriott Hotel and Country Club in Derbyshire has renovated two ageing irrigation systems to one Toro Lynx control system on its two 18- hole Championship Priory Course and Moorland Course. Course manager John Smith, pictured above, explains: “The systems urgently needed to change, but we didn’t want to unnecessarily overhaul all the wiring and pipework. Completely replacing everything would have resulted in huge costs, but with the help of

True innovation with every renovation

applies to the more recent DT series and 835 series, too. And most of the time these upgrades can be made without the need for mini-excavators and massive disruption. Infinity, shown in action below right, has been designed to be upgraded from the top down, with the Smart Access feature allowing future upgrades to be faster, easier and cheaper. Upgrading with Toro brings true innovation to your irrigation. Every replacement sprinkler on offer brings with it design improvements

When Toro developed its irrigation strategy one of the primary areas of emphasis was longevity. Toro sprinklers dating all the way back to the 1960s are easily updated when clubs look to renovate their irrigation. The existing sprinkler body is simply fitted with the latest Toro head technology not just replacing new for old, but for more precision, accuracy, efficiency and economy. In the case of Toro pop-up sprinklers, the company’s 600 series that launched in the US back in 1967, and 700 series first seen in the 1990s, can be easily interchanged with Toro sprinkler head conversion assemblies, in as little as 60 seconds! The same

– you aren’t just replacing the plastic casing, but addressing

specific irrigation needs, such as arc retention meaning rotation is to a strict start-stop without unwanted

news lines . summer 2018 . 11

that from Richard Wood, our rep, who is excellent to deal with.” The order, which consists of two Reelmaster 5610 machines, two Reelmaster 3100 with Sidewinders, two Greensmaster 3250-D greensmowers, a ProCore 648 and Workman MDX-D is, says Danny, the start of an ongoing relationship: “The plan is we will order more Toro over the next five years, I am aiming for a ‘red shed’! Not only do we have our members to keep happy, but we have a comprehensive and varied events calendar too, and there’s no doubt Toro and Reesink are the partners we need to make sure the course presents at its consistent best.”

TORO IN THE WORLD CUP

It’s the biggest single-event sporting competition in the world and the 2018 World Cup delivered all the excitement a billion fans could hope for. From England winning 6-1 against Panama to the Croatia versus France final which saw France crowned World Champions, all eyes were on the pitches. Five stadiums depended on Toro equipment to prepare their fields and grounds to the highest international standards. Mowers and aerators, sprayers and utility vehicles were picked for the Spartak Stadium in Moscow, Saint Petersburg Stadium on Krestovsky Island, Kazan Arena, Mordovia Arena in Saransk and Nizhny Novgorod Stadium. Clear favourites were the Reelmaster 3100-D, ProCore 648, the Multi Pro 1750 sprayer and mid- to heavy-duty Workman utility vehicles, in particular the MDX and the HDX.

Rochester and Cobham Park Golf Club in North Kent, which has taken delivery of eight new Toro machines, credits Toro with leaving “satisfying” results in its wake as it looks to the future and promises to welcome more Toro machines within the next five years. According to Danny Dalton, acting head greenkeeper, the decision to go with Toro and Reesink Turfcare was an easy one to make. From his experience of using the brand at The London Golf Club, Danny says quite simply: “if you want the best results, you get Toro”. “Greenkeeping is a tough job, so whatever you can do to

make it easier is a good thing. Toro is easy to work with and its outstanding build quality means maintenance is less time- consuming. “But the main appeal is the quality of cut it delivers. To do your work and be able to look back at what you’ve done and feel 100 percent happy with it is so satisfying, and ultimately what we’re all in it for.” Adding even more appeal to choosing Toro was the fact that Reesink is an official distributor in the UK. Danny says: “We don’t have a bad word to say about the support we receive, in particular

Just like you choose Toro for the best results, it’s wise to choose Reesink for its customer service.

Danny Dalton, acting head greenkeeper

01 Danny Dalton, acting head greenkeeper, on one of the club’s new Greensmaster 3250-D greensmowers, with club manager John Aughterlony in the middle shaking hands with Reesink’s Richard Wood.

The final whistle...

TORO AT THE OPEN

INVESTMENT IN IRELAND

ENTRIES UP FOR AWARDS

Get in touch For turfcare machinery, irrigation and water aeration products: Reesink Turfcare UK Limited 1-3 Station Road, St Neots Cambridgeshire PE19 1QH Tel: 01480 226800 Email: info@reesinkturfcare.co.uk

Entries for the Student Greenkeeper of the Year Awards were up this year, with over double the amount of entries from employers, demonstrating the faith course managers and greenkeepers have in the abilities of their students. The final in September sees the winners for both categories jet off for foreign shores. The winners and endorsers of the main award to America and for the Young award to France.

Toro was honoured to have played a role in helping prepare the course of Carnoustie Golf Links in Scotland for the 147th Open. Toro mowers, aerators and utility vehicles helped crews create optimal course conditions with head greenkeeper Craig Boath saying: “with Toro, we can get the quality of cut and the course looking amazing”.

Reesink Ireland has amalgamated with Nurney-based Professional Machinery Services (PMS) as part of its investment plans in Ireland. An agreement with PMS directors Michael and Michelle Fleming sees both join the customer service team at Reesink premises also in Nurney. Reesink says the move will put the business in a position to maintain customer satisfaction levels on a par with all its European operations.

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