In October of last year, I had the great fortune and pleasure to start a three-and-a-half-month internship at Nikanti. I knew I had the opportunity to spend the Danish off-season abroad and wanted to find the best possible opportunity; one in which I was able to be around the cutting edge of golf course maintenance and to try to learn from someone not afraid to experiment and use all the information available to us as greenkeepers.

Throughout my whole time in Asia, I have been wondering about how it may be possible to send some of the local greenkeepers over to the USA to take part in the Ohio State University International Internship program; having the opportunity to work on some of the best golf courses in the US and the World, and help tournament preparations for some of the best players in the world. The problem has always been the language barrier, as most local greenkeepers in South East Asia speak very little English; if at all. Perhaps one day we will find a way to still make it happen.

Then, one day “out of the blue” as Richard puts it, I get this message…

When looking to move on to a new management role at a new facility, which do you think is more beneficial to your career? Leaving the turf neatly trimmed and green or ensuring the turf performance and course conditions remain in top condition long after you have left?