The first demonstration tour held in Scotland by Campey Turf Care Systems and distributor The Double A Trading Company has proved a huge success generating new interest in many products including the innovative Air2G2 and Imants Rotosweep.
Castle Stuart Links near Inverness, and Glasgow Academy were the respective hosts. Although two very different settings, each was equally valuable as a showcase of Campey products for golf turf maintenance and sports pitch renovation and management.
Over 50 people turned up at both events. Groundsmen, course managers and contractors from across Scotland took the trouble to attend these events.
Richard Heywood is Campey product specialist for the area and explained the thinking behind the push into Scotland.
“The level of interest in new machinery is heartening. Campeys is known for introducing innovative techniques and machinery. At our events we always get asked ‘what’s the next machine going to do?’ Everyone is keen to see if it’ll dig, inject air, inject water, scarify, collect, aerate. There’s something fresh for everyone.”
Chris Haspell, Course manager at Castle Stuart Links was happy to provide what can only be described as a stunning setting on the Moray Firth.
“We are in a fortunate position of being closed over the winter months, so this was an ideal opportunity for my staff and neighbouring greenkeepers from clubs to see latest kit on offer,” he said.
Assistant Head Greenkeeper Graeme Mellis from Muir of Ord Golf Club, Inverness was really pleased he made the time to come. “There were a number of machines such as the Imants SandCat and RotoSweep that we hadn’t seen in action before,” said Graeme. “The Air2G2 was particularly impressive in the way it left no surface disturbance.”
Derek Roy Head Greenkeeper and Deputy Head Richard Johnstone from Nairn Dunbar Golf Club found it a very informative day. “We had been told about a couple of the new machines, particularly the Air2G2 and the SandCat, so it was great to see them working in similar conditions to our own course,” they said. “We can see why they have been creating a stir now.”
Robert Cheape, Head groundsman at Glasgow Academy kindly provided the facilities for the second demo day.
Managing director Richard Campey attended both events. “What is so gratifying is talking to so many informed professionals. The thirst for knowledge in our industry is very high and this is our way of showing the equipment to its full potential.”
Campey Turf Care Systems www.campeyturfcare.com