The condition of the courses on St Andrews Links has been highly commended in a recent report by the Sports Turf Research Institute (STRI), the independent national agronomy advisory service which carries out inspections of the Links twice a year.
Following the recent inspection in April, a detailed report was produced highlighting areas on the courses which are flourishing, and those which could be improved. According to the report the standard of both the condition and presentation of all the courses on the Links continues to be high. The greens were described as 'admirably firm' given the wet weather last winter, with the greens on the New Course among the best. It was also noted that using fairway mats in winter had significantly reduced the divot scarring on all the courses despite the number of rounds played.
Particular highlights include the success of the deep drilling of the first green on the Old Course which has resulted in a much denser and finer sward of grass. Also recent applications of lawnsand on the Old Course greens were helping create a denser sward and faster putting surface.
"It is encouraging to know we are succeeding in improving the high standards we have achieved on the courses in recent years," said Gordon Moir, Links Superintendent. "The report goes into great detail with a number of useful recommendations which, combined with our own experience will contribute to our drive to create a world centre of excellence."