Gwazae demo success at sussex CCC

ANDY MACKAY, head groundsman at Sussex CCC, called on Speedcut Contractors and their Gwazae deep-probe aerator to deal with compaction.

"There were several areas that had suffered because of wet weather and concerts," says Andy.

"The Gwazae is a very effective machine because it breaks up compaction up to two and half feet below the surface and the blast of compressed air can have materials added - in our case we put in liquid gypsum to help keep the cracks open and improve drainage.

"Ironically we are in a period of dry weather, but I am hopeful that the results will be good as we have had excellent reports from other cricket grounds which have used the Gwazae.
"Speedcut were very efficient and their attention to detail is first-class."

As well as areas of the outfield, run-ups to the practice wickets were treated - and one thing that had to be accurately missed by the Main Square was the position of the 'stump-cam' ducting, so beloved of cricket TV broadcasters.

"We have had to locate and miss most types of services and drains in the past but it was the first time we had to dodge ducting for cameras," said Barry Pace of Speedcut Contractors. "We are always very aware of service positions as a matter of course."

Speedcut's Gwazae is ideal for eliminating compaction on fine turf, leaving no surface disturbance, and also high-impact sports areas like racecourses.

It has been used during the winter months to great effect on golf course greens, football pitches and racecourses. Wide profile tyres enable decompaction to be carried out in most conditions.

Speedcut used their Gwazae at Royal Windsor Racecourse following IOG Saltex - decompacting the track where the temporary crossovers were situated. They also treated other areas of the course.

Last year's record heavy rainfall led to an increase in requests for Gwazae treatment and Speedcut's full drainage and renovation services.

SPEEDCUT CONTRACTORS: 01865 331479 www.speedcutcontractors.co.uk

*Speedcut Contractors are specialists in sportsturf construction, drainage and renovation. The company was established in 1977 and has a long record of major projects in every type of sporting venue, including golf, football, rugby, cricket and racecourses. Clients include local authorities, schools and colleges.

PRESS CONTACT: Mike Beardall on 01273 495619
or 07889 707807. E-mail: press@mikebeardall.com