STRI (Sports Turf Research Institute) Bulletin July 2014 | Page 8

GOLF
from moss and fairy ring control to
firming up surfaces including a change to
sand top dressing quality and application
frequency, as well as additional surface,
mid and deep surface aeration. Ongoing
assessment of playing quality on six
indicator greens representative of the
course, using the STRI Programme,
feeds into the decision making process,
as well as assessing progress over time
within an established target range to
enhance playing quality characteristics.
ie firmness, smoothness, trueness and
speed. In addition, with different green
constructions Craig has been working
to improve consistency from green
to green and within putting surfaces
with good results. This process has
been refined as we move towards
The Open and further adjustments
will take place in July so that the
participants will experience a tough but
fair challenge and experience course
playing characteristics that are of a
high standard, consistent and of a level

Course Manager Craig Gilholm is
well prepared for his second Open

8

Bulletin July 2014 Issue 266

expected of a top Open venue links
site.
The testing team from STRI will again
be present the week before and during
the event. Data collection will be twice
per day with the results incorporated
into the discussion of ongo