A prerequisite of a links golf course is being near the ocean and when you are situated in the Scottish Highlands of Inverness overlooking the Moray Firth it brings certain weather based challenges.
Chris Haspell is course superintendent at what in its debut year Golf Magazine listed as the 56th best golf club in the world. He is well aware of the challenges faced by greenkeepers on such courses but now with the Air2G2 in his fleet of machines at least he knows that aerating is no longer a problem.
The Air2G2 uses pressurised air to target compaction deep at rootzone level. Probes penetrate the soil and force air sideways to create fissures in the sub structure improving aeration and drainage throughout the soil.
Previous methods of aeration would cause disruption to the surface, making play difficult and causing interruption for the guest players.
This is problematic at Castle Stuart which is closed during the winter months meaning that the course has to be playable at all times when it is open, especially with the Scottish Open heading to the course in 2016.
The Air2G2 has provided Chris with the ability to aerate during the playing season while minimising interference of play.
“I think the Air2G2 is the answer to effective low key decompaction and turf maintenance while at the same time giving the roots what they need. It has great versatility with uses on all surfaces,” Chris began.
“Verti-draining and other forms of aeration had been very invasive over the years and in some applications it may still need to be used but this machine gives an excellent quality of finish and a green that’s instantly playable.
“The lack of disturbance is really important, not just here but at every course because it allows golf to be played unhindered by the maintenance work that’s taken place.”
