The inaugural UK Golf Federation (UKGF) GolfBIC Sustainability Roadshow was hailed as a great success by all delegates and presenters.
It was held at the stunning Hounslow Golf Park near Heathrow Airport, on the day the presentations were seen Simon Watson BSc.PhD for the R&A Sustainability Team, and Jonathan SmithThe Executive Director of the GEO Foundation presents some great long-term ways that golf course owners and operators can see their best practices for managing their golf courses, etc., in the years to come.
These presentations were also supported by UKGF Corporate Partners who explained guidelines on how their companies support environmental sustainability in their day-to-day operations and how their businesses can support sustainable golf and the ways in which the UKGF can benefit their businesses.
Gareth Macklin (Founder of Obbi Golf) explained how conservation practices help streamline the operation of the golf course. Gustav Andersson (Sweetspot) came on the day to present on Sweetspot tee time solutions & Golf Genius presented their new golf tournament management technology.
While the majority of good operators identify safety as a top priority for their group's sustainability, the latest Group Safety and Compliance Report revealed that 78% of managers do not feel confident that they are meeting all compliance requirements. Although serious incidents are rare, Gareth's presentation highlighted examples of significant consequences including fines, serious injury, imprisonment and even loss of life. Gareth highlighted many examples of best practice and advice for keeping your club safe every day and how the Obbi platform continues to help clubs change their culture of safety and compliance.
Alfie and Ed (EV chargers) go through all the issues of electric vehicle charging points and EVC solutions available to golf course owners and finally, Ed Pettit, The Managing Director at Carr Golf, a provider of golf course management solutions, presented and sponsored the GolfBIC Roadshow on how they can optimize golf course conditions and budgets.
The day ended with an impressive presentation by Ian Blunt (inrange) who said, “We are seeing a big increase in older players only they want to swing the club off the course (on driving ranges, minigolf, simulation areas etc.) – and golf clubs want to remain financially sustainable with the need to ensure that their outdoor offering (its range) is marketable to both. golfers and non-golfers. The solution is not technology alone – it is on the right technology that enhances practice and provides engaging games and events for social play and large groups. Inrange works with institutions around the world to future proof their business, by making driving range a revenue center and not just a value addition to customers. “
The vision of the UK Golf Federation and its 1,200+ members is to work with all stakeholders in the golf industry to achieve sustainable golf operations in the coming years. The goal of striving to reach nett/carbon golf facilities that operate without pesticides, reduce water use, reduce the use of single plastic, increase the use of solar energy and reduce reliance on fertilizers is very important for the development of society and the environment of the world.
We still have time to book the following two GolfBIC shows:
• Brampton Park, Cambridge – Wednesday 8th May
• GolfIt, Glasgow – Thursday 16th May
To book your place please email Jane Montgomery – [email protected]
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