Singapore: Golf course renovation was the central theme on the opening day of the Asian Golf Industry Federation’s (AGIF) Superintendent Volunteer Education Programme.
Being staged in conjunction with the HSBC Women’s Champions for the third year in succession, the event has attracted more than 80 superintendents, including six superintendents from an R&A internship programme.
The seminar at Singapore’s award-winning Sentosa Golf Club will continue tomorrow morning, followed by a field demonstration in the afternoon.
Syngenta’s Sowmya Mitra, a member of the AGIF Education Committee and one of the event organisers, said: “We’re delighted to see this event grow and to be so well received by superintendents around Asia.”
In his opening welcome remarks, Andy Johnston, General Manager at Sentosa, recalled how the inaugural Superintendent Volunteer Education Programme drew an audience of just 12.
“It’s satisfying to see that this event is being better supported each year and is helping to strengthen the bond between course superintendents,” said Johnston.
Setting the tone for the gathering was Adam Lawrence, Editor, Golf Course Architecture. In the first of a two-part presentation that concludes tomorrow, Lawrence highlighted various course renovations from around the world.
Laurie Walsh, Design Associate/Project Manager, IMG Golf Course Services, then took to the stage to discuss Project Management in Renovation.
Best Design and Construction Practices in Golf Course Renovation was the topic tackled by Martin Moore, President, Flagstick GCC.
To complete the first-day session, John Holmes, President, Atlas Turf and Vice President, AGIF, spoke about Grass Selection in Renovation.
Richard Walne, Chairman of the AGIF’s Education Committee, said: “With education being one of the core elements of the Federation in 2015, we are committed to raising the profile and standard of turfgrass maintenance in the Asian region through events such as this.
“We greatly appreciate the support of Andy Johnston, Rodney McKeown and their outstanding team at Sentosa Golf Club. Without their backing and involvement this event would not be possible.”