As the 2012 winter golfing season comes to an end, I wanted to thank the many members that have complimented my staff and I for the condition of the course.

The maintenance staff have worked tirelessly to prepare and present the course to a high standard on a daily basis. There have been many golf events over the past months and the staff always seemed to dig a little deeper to complete the many details that help to set our course above many others in the area.

The view down hole 18

Bunker work on hole 5

Green on hole 12

The weather conditions this year have played an important role in keeping our grass green and healthy. Fortunately, we have been receiving some rain when it was needed that has helped sustain the turf and shrubs. The wild flowers, that had struggled earlier in the year due to the warmer weather have now bloomed and look fantastic.

Wild Flowers on hole 16

There have also been many cultural practices performed behind the scenes to promote turf health. These include bi-weekly spiking of greens, top dressing tees and greens, rolling of greens, spoon feeding of fertilizer and the use of soil wetting agents to name but a few. The roots on our turf have been excellent all season long and that has proven to be critical in keeping quality turf conditions considering the lack of rain, high temperatures, windy conditions and record rounds of play.

Roots on hole 4

I can't thank all of my staff enough, in particular Riaan Potgieter, our Assistant Superintendent, our mechanics, Luis and Pedro, Mike Terrill, our Integrated Pest Manager and Neil Johnson, our Irrigation Technician. Please, thank all of my staff as you see them out on the course.

by David Dore-Smith
Director if Golf Course and Grounds Maintenance
Copperleaf Golf Club