Rockcliffe training day

Adam and myself visited Rockcliffe Hall Golf Club today near Darlington to take part in a course walk/ discussion and grinding training by Bernard Ginders. The day was organised by BIGGA, Cleveland section, so thanks to Sandra and the team.

For those who don't know Rockcliffe it's a fairly new course, fully opened in 2008. Deigned by Hawtree and built by Abbotts over 2 years. A 7 million pound build and a nicely designed course, although very wet due to the recent weather. 

Again thanks to Peter Newton, head greenkeeper for taking the time to give a presentation while on the walk. Although there is a massive difference from our course to this one we gained valuable information on how they prepare, maintain and keep the golf course in the best possible standard. 

Whilst on the tour it highlighted how the infrastructure is of high importance and relevant to the finished product. 

There storage facility for sand, fertiliser and aggregates. 

Bigger than most. 

The mechanical side to keep things cutting perfectly is a building of its own dedicated to maintenance. Including a large purpose built wash off area. 

Another seperate building for machinery storage. 

Of which they have plenty. 

Overall a top class set up, which is needed for a top 100 championship course. Again part of the course was grinding training and mower set up to achieve the best results. Steve Nixon from Bernard gave an interesting presentation which had us thinking of our methods and resources for the journey home.