Welcome to News from the Course.
During the AGM back in October 2009, I outlined the 3 major project which were to be undertaken during the Winter months.
12th Hole - Re-construction of the Red Tee
13th Hole - Scrub clearance, long rough being cut and the transplanting of trees
18th Hole - Re-design of the Captains’ Bunker
During the discussion at the AGM, a fourth project came to the fore in the way of a safety issue raised by several members. The garden area to the side and rear of the clubhouse is to be re-designed to allow better access for function guests and a better seating area for the members.
While the weather was kind to us in October and November, work to remove the scrub etc on the 13th started to transform the hole. Once the ground softened in December, over 150 trees of various species and sizes have been planted.
An avenue of mature Ash (Fraxinus excelsior) have also been planted along the walkway from the 11th green to the 12th tee. Our plan is to extend the path from the tee all the way to the green.
During November, the team completed the revetment of the Captains’ Bunker on the 18th, however, once complete, I took the decision to revet the other bunker as well - looking up the fairway the entrance to the green is now balanced.
It must be to the members’ liking as I have had several suggestion to revet other bunkers around the course - look out in 2010!!
Click here for Local Rule - Revetted Bunkers.
During November, the ladies tee on the 12th also had a makeover and was levelled, enlarged, new irrigation installed and was turfed. It is now establishing it root system and will be in play from 1st April 2010. Until then, a temporary winter tee mat has been installed.
During January / February
Due to Standard Scratch Score ( SSS ) being re-assessed, the committee have altered 3 stroke indices on the 12th, 15th and 17th holes. To coincide with new cards being printed, all the course furniture will be updated during January.
Work will commence on the garden area around the clubhouse.
Aeration work on greens, tees and fairways will continue.
Drainage, edging and re-dressing the sand in bunkers will continue.
Topping up around tree bases with rootzone will commence.
‘ These greens are so fast I have to hold my putter over the ball and hit it with the shadow. ‘ - Sam Snead.