Dunluce greens renovation

Dunluce greens were solid tined and holes sand filled 2 weeks ago. 

1 ton of sand was applied prior to solid tining using 15mm diameter tines to depth of 85mm. Greens were then dressed again followed by seed and a final brush with the sweep & fill brush

 This work was done in 1 day using 2 machines and the aim is to further dry the profile of the root zone and improve firmness of surfaces. 

This will be a benefit, especially through winter months for plant health and pitch mark damage. Smoothness and trueness have almost returned to normal. 

New Valley 18th Winter tee

After a busy season on the Valley Links and after consultation With Martin Ebert it was felt that the addition of a new winter tee would be of benefit to the course. This will allow the main tee to recover and for new seedlings to establish. The hole is quite a short par 4 from the forward tee but with plenty of danger off the tee the hole should still play with some degree of difficulty.

The 2 new holes on the Skerries have been complimented all season but it was felt that they were a little difficult for beginners.

The approach to the 4th green on the Skerries par 3 course has been extended and some mounding adjusted. This will make the hole more playable from the tee for junior golf.

The carry for the Skerries 3rd hole will be cut and scarified to shorten the carry over marram grass. 

Autumn work programme

Monday 17th October 

After this years Dinner Day Cup on Saturday we plan to carry out some work to Dunluce greens in the form of 16mm solid tining and sanding. 

The holes will be topped up with sand but it will take a short time for trueness to return to putting surfaces.

Some winter tees and paths shall be utilised from next Monday also. This is a little earlier than last year but some of the new tees and paths will benefit from the rest after a busy first season. All tees have been seeded so this will also give new seedlings an opportunity to establish.

The Men’s putting green has established very well since seeding out in June and may look as though it is almost ready to open but it would be very beneficial to leave this to establish further over the winter before opening next April/May. This will also give us an opportunity to further improve surface levels.

Course visit

Very productive 2 days with the R&A, Martin Ebert and Marcus Terry of 1st Golf discussing spectator movement, grandstands and new roads.

Lots of great work has been carried out on the courses over the last 2 weeks with new winter paths created, all tees and grass paths verti-cut, cored sanded and seeded.

Mowing of long roughs will begin tomorrow on the Valley Links.