The grass trainers of The Curragh

Cutting the grass for most people involves running the lawnmower over it and then standing proudly over your turf, examining a job well done (sunglasses and beer optional). For others though, a lot more thought goes into the process. Shane Webb, one of the groundsmen at The Curragh, explains the science behind the well-kept ground.

When it comes to sporting grounds, the quality of the grass and turf underneath is hugely important, as the pitch is often broadcast around the world for millions to see.

On a racecourse, the consistency of the turf underneath is a hugely important aspect, as there is a serious risk of horses falling on bad ground and injuring themselves or a jockey.

Keeping the track and parade ring on a racecourse is a big undertaking, and ahead of the first meeting of the season at The Curragh racecourse we spoke to one of their groundsmen, Shane Webb, about the time and effort that goes into the upkeep of the ground.

Having worked at the racecourse since his school days, Webb's expertise is in demand and his turf consultancy business has been approached by top racecourses Ascot and Kentucky.

Source: The42.ie