Newslines Summer 2019

means I can look at a machine from two different perspectives – what it requires for upkeep and how it operates,” says Luke, pictured below left, with Reesink’s Jon Lewis. “My experience has shown me that Toro outperforms and outlasts the competition.” The difference in having a full Toro fleet of high-quality, durable machines is palpable says Luke. “In particular the Reelmaster 3575-D really stood out. The after cut appearance achieved with the perfection brushes is the best I’ve ever seen.” And while opting for the Reelmaster 3100-D with groomers to enhance the semi-rough might be quite an unusual decision, Luke says it’s paid off: “We’ve received amazing feedback on the definition and quality of the ball lie achieved, which allows a cleaner impact to the back of the ball for golfers.” news lines . summer 2019 . 09 Q&A Some people make a mark for making a difference and for that will never be forgotten. For Sid Arrowsmith, who has retired from an incredibly varied and successful 42-year career in greenkeeping, his mark is his exemplary work at Frilford Heath Golf Club and as president of BIGGA. What was your time at Frilford Heath Golf Club like? I was course manager at Frilford for 25 years and it’s one of the things of which I am most proud. From finishing the development of a third championship course, to obtaining GEO (Golf Environment Organisation) certification for our sustainability efforts and becoming an Open regional qualifying club, the course and club have come a long way since I arrived. How has Reesink played a part in the development of the clubs you’ve worked at? I’ve worked with Reesink for a great many years and we’ve partnered on some very successful projects. From preparing the courses at Royal Portrush Golf Club for its centenary year, to working with Reesink and Otterbine at Frilford Heath to improve its water reservoir allowing the club to become self-sufficient. Using Toro machinery has aided both of the club’s ambitions to move forward and progress. It’s been a successful relationship for 25 years. I have some great friends at Reesink, and I know those friendships will continue. What’s your biggest achievement? Obtaining BIGGA Master Greenkeeper certification was one of the most challenging things I’ve done, and it means an awful lot to me. To test myself at the highest level and come out successful definitely makes for one of my biggest achievements. Especially considering how daunting the exams were – they’re certainly not for the faint hearted! What was it like being president of BIGGA? I’m grateful for all the experiences it provided me. In particular, attending th e Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year Awards and seeing the stars of the future develop their knowledge was very rewarding. The three most important things needed to get on in this industry are on- the-job experience, education and networking and this competition values and provides all three. It’s wonderful Toro and Reesink sponsor such awards and involve themselves in the industry this way. How has the industry changed? One of the biggest changes I’ve seen is the impact of climate change. The weather chops and changes faster than ever, so relying on past practical experience to recognise the right course of action to take is vital in a way that it just wasn’t before. What are your plans for retirement? I’m going to miss working with the guys every day, but I’m looking forward to having some well- deserved time off! In particular, I’m planning to spend a lot of time travelling with my wife which will be fantastic. We’ve got three trips booked this year already! Robin Hood Golf Club in Solihull has come on board as a Toro fleet customer for the first time as course manager Luke Dennis attests to Toro outperforming other brands. With a career that has seen him work on championship courses hosting major tournaments such as The Ryder Cup, across the UK for European tour events and further afield to Sweden for the Scandinavian Masters, as well as working in machinery parts maintenance, Luke certainly has an in-depth perspective when it comes to golf course machinery. “I have experience working on the maintenance of machinery parts and as course manager, which Improved play Toro outperforming and outlasting the competition 01 Sid, above right, with Reesink’s Robert Rees. Thanks to Reesink’s 24-hour delivery service customers can have their stock of Toro Titan Tines replenished and their machines back up and running within a day. The titans of the tines industry and known as the turf professional’s secret weapon when it comes to achieving precise, concise holes for faster recovery and a smoother finish, Toro’s Titan Tines genuinely offer customers more, just like their UK distributor Reesink. And when it comes to delivery, it’s guaranteed to be the fastest delivery time possible. There are over 150 Toro Titan Tines available covering all possible aeration applications. Whether Toro parts Toro’s secret weapon for precise concise holes with you within 24 hours you’ll be coring, slicing or spiking, hollow, solid or deep tining, or using water injection cultivation or ‘linear’ aeration, there’s a Titan Tine for every need. Plus, all Titan Tines fit current and late model Toro aerators and the standard mount size fits lots of other manufacturer aerators, too. Michael Hampton, turfcare parts manager at Reesink, says: “Timing is vital when it comes to aeration and it is important not to be let down in the middle of the aeration programme. Reesink ensures you have your parts in 24 hours, ensuring downtime is kept to a minimum and guaranteeing a speedy turf recovery.” 01