Chigwell Golf Club in Essex, UK, has selected Toro to replace the club’s turf machinery.

Recently-appointed course manager Euan MacKenzie was given the brief of reviewing all Chigwell Golf Club’s equipment and replacing it when he joined the club at the start of 2014.

The club is now using the latest Toro greensmowers and a new rotary, helping to improve cutting quality and after-cut appearance.

“I started at the club in January and was asked to consider a list of specifications for new machines,” said MacKenzie. “So I asked the ‘top three’ to present their best deals. I have used Toro at several places in my career and have always rated them, but felt it was only right to give a level playing field for all involved. Primarily, I was looking for a demonstration of reliability and quality in relation to value, especially in this economic environment!”

Chigwell Golf Club has a policy of continuous investment in order to ensure the course is always kept in its best condition according to MacKenzie, who has extensive experience in the industry and worked for a time at Stapleford Park Golf Club near Melton Mowbray, UK.

“The Toro TriFlex 3420 and Flex21 were chosen for their credentials in improving greens cutting,” MacKenzie explained. “The floating, independent cutting heads of both mean they are ideal for our undulating terrain. They give a far more even cut than we had before and a much better after-cut appearance.

“The Greensmaster 1600 has a 66cm cutting width and extended cutting height, which makes it the perfect mower for our old-fashioned square tees, which we cut at a height of 10mm twice a week. In addition, we got the Groundsmaster 3500-D and two TYM tractors. The 3500-D with Sidewinder cutting units is lighter than our previous mower and already giving a pay-off.

“It is aiding the quality of cut and visual presentation of the course. Both members and visitors are giving us positive feedback on this.”

The club worked with Toro distributor Lely UK to deliver the new equipment, and MacKenzie praised them for their high degree of flexibility and the wide range of specifications available.

“I felt this investment for the club was in safe hands with Lely and Toro,” he added.