Bangkok, Thailand: Thana City Country Club is converting its aged Tifdwarf Bermuda greens to Primo Zoysia as part of a major renovation project.
Managed by Absolute Golf Services (AGS), an Associate Business Member of the Asian Golf Industry Federation (AGIF), Thana City will be the first facility in the region to transition to this new type of warm season grass.
The grass is being supplied by one of Asia’s leading turf suppliers, Sports Turf Solutions (STS), a Full Business Member of the AGIF.
The project has been undertaken due to the progressive decline in the surfaces of the old greens, which have succumbed to mutation over the years, negatively impacting their condition and playability during the challenging wet season.
Primo Zoysia was chosen because of its tropical climate tolerance, ability to thrive in the shade and lower susceptibility to disease.
James Shippey, Managing Director of AGS, said: “The turf is amazing and demands much less proactive and reactive maintenance. As opposed to Tifdwarf Bermuda, the plant is specially engineered to thrive in the climate in Thailand.
“We think it will be a game-changer for Thana City Country Club to have one of the newest innovations in agronomic circles, which will transform the playing experience at the club.
“We fully expect the change to provide great putting surfaces 365 days a year, providing golfers with smooth, consistent and fast greens, currently unseen anywhere in Thailand. It will re-set expectations from international tourists, members and guests as they experience a first for Thailand, with Primo Zoysia.”
Shippey said the decision to change grasses was not taken lightly. He said: “The turf has been tested in Southeast Asia and proven to perform extremely well in the tropical climate. We are expecting the green speed to be between 10 and 13 (on the Stimpmeter) throughout the year.
“We’ve spent many months planning this project and will undertake the works without closing the golf course. We forecast the works to be completed within 21 days, with minimal disturbance to members and guests.
“This work and timelines will ensure the long-term success of Thana City from an agronomic standpoint, delivering great surfaces and a reduction in operating expenses.”
Links Golf Services (LGS) have been appointed as the team to carry out the works to re-grass the greens. They have constructed an on-site nursery which is currently under the expert eye of the team during the grow-in period.
Shippey said: “LGS brings its expertise in golf course construction and maintenance to deliver the AGS vision and will be 100% focused on the success of the ground-breaking project from a construction standpoint and preparation.”
Gavan Wilson, Managing Director of LGS, said: “We’re excited to be involved in this industry first and such an innovative project at Thana City Country Club. We will put our team of experts behind this project to ensure the best outcome.”
The green nursery was sprigged on May 15 and the entire re-grassing project is expected to be complete by the end of September.
Driven by a team of industry-experienced professionals, AGS offers flexible management and consultancy services that are developed and tailored to meet owners’ objectives, both operationally and financially.
“We’re committed to the development of the golf and leisure industry,” said Shippey.