New Greenkeepers Conference

I recently retired as a Professor of Turfgrass Science from Auburn University (in Alabama, USA). I've spent 28 years working in turfgrass fertilizers, and still continue to conduct research and give talks. Now I work for Kansas State University in agricultural international development work. I still teach Introductory Soil Science, Turfgrass Management and Soil Fertility classes for Auburn University, too.

James has almost 23 years' experience in mechanics, 18 of which have been spent within the golf industry. An expert in maintaining turf equipment, James is currently workshop and equipment manager for Arora Group, based at the Buckinghamshire Golf Club. His remit is about to expand as he tales on a group role that will include potential Ryder Cup host Luton Hoo Golf & Country Club.

Chris has been head mechanic and workshop manager for Leicester City Football Club since September 2017. He previously spent 12 years as head mechanic at The Belfry.

Prior to that, Chris worked at Ransomes and Toro dealerships and he began his career working at the local mower shop, meaning his entire working life has revolved around turf equipment. He also studied mechanics at Moreton Morrell College of Agriculture.

Adam has been a Turfgrass Agronomist for 13 years and joined The R&A in 2019. He has worked at 9 Open Championships, 7 AIG Women’s Opens and numerous R&A  Amateur Championships and matches. Adam holds a first class honours degree in Turfgrass Science along with BASIS and FACTS qualifications and is a proud R&A Scholar.

As Championship Agronomy Manager at The R&A, he is responsible for providing agronomic support to R&A Championship Venues to help deliver sustainable playing surfaces to the highest of standards for R&A Championships.

Adam has a great passion for golf and is a member of Ganton Golf Club with a handicap of 2.

James is the most recent member to the R&A Sustainable Golf Team. He has taken up the position of Assistant Championship Agronomist. 

James began his career in South Africa at the African Turf Academy. James has ten years of greenkeeping experience in several countries. He’s been an intern on the Ohio State Program in America. In 2018 he moved to the UK where he’s worked at JCB Golf and Country Club, Gleneagles and the Old Course at St Andrews. James is a graduate of the 2023 FTMI Programme and an R&A Scholar. He is currently studying a degree in Turfgrass Science at Myerscough College.