New Look to the Bunkers

The New Look to the Bunkers

In developing a more manageable bunker for both maintenance & golf, we have been working on a new technique of raking. Most noticeable will be the smoother sides. This technique actually uses a roller to smooth & compact the side of each bunker. This helps with firming the bunker face to allow less fried egg lies, but also means less raking which reduces contamination of the white sand. It can be time consuming for staff setting up each morning, however creating better playability & a longer lasting bunker is our goal. Many courses are using this technique with success, two notably Westmount GCC in Kitchener (Stanley Thompson) and Hazeltine National (Ryder Cup 2016).

As we work to perfect this raking technique, we ask for your patience. The turf crew maintains the 67 bunkers we do have each morning, rolling/smoothing sides & raking the bottoms out. With good golf etiquette in mind, members will continue to rake bunkers in the usual fashion throughout the day.  

When in a bunker, remember your fellow golfer behind you…
rake yourself out.

Questions or Concerns? Do not hesitate to contact Dean Baker…
dean@burlingtongolfclub.com

About the Author

Dean Baker, Certified Golf Course Superintendent (27 years). He joined Burlington Golf & Country Club in 2012, where he has enjoyed the remodelling and renovation of this historic 1922 Stanley Thompson design. Dean is a graduate of the University of Guelph where he remains involved with the program he graduated from, Associate Diploma in Turf Management. There he lends his expertise as an instructor to upcoming turf managers, by instructing the Human Resources for Turf Managers Course.

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