An Open Q and A

In this quick-fire Q and A, we spoke with Greenkeeper Sam Ludlow from Luffenham Heath Golf Club and Aaron Cross, Assistant Greenkeeper from Thorndon Park Golf Club about their experiences at The 2023 Open at Royal Liverpool. Both took plenty of pride and proudness from the experience.

Aaron Cross at The Open 2023

Was this the first major tournament that you have worked at? How was the experience?

Sam: In March I volunteered at the Dell Matchplay in Austin. I absolutely loved my time over there and this made me want to do more tournament experience such as The Open Championship.

Aaron: The Open is, by far, the largest tournament where I have volunteered. Before this, I had volunteered at three other tournaments; the Texas Valero Open at TPC San Antonio in both 2022 and 2023 and the European Senior Masters at The Forest Of Arden in 2021. During those events, I was part of the maintenance/agronomy crew however, for The Open I was fortunate to be part of the bunker support team thanks to BIGGA. The experience was different, but truly incredible. Walking inside the ropes, especially on the 17th and 18th holes, was an exceptionally surreal experience thanks to the enormous crowd and the electric atmosphere.

Have you learnt anything from the other greenkeeping staff at The Open?

Sam: I met a lot of great people when I was at The Open and tried speaking to everyone about different tasks they carry out at their golf courses. This is what I love about volunteering at tournamentsp; getting to share ideas and trying to take things on board to bring back.

Aaron: The aspect that truly impressed me was the unwavering professionalism, dedication and passion for the industry displayed by individuals - regardless of the course level they came from.

How beneficial do you think it is for turf care individuals to work at these large events?

Sam: I think it is great to put yourself out there and meet new people at tournaments. From the two tournaments I've worked out I've already learnt loads, so I would definitely recommend it.

Aaron: It's absolutely huge. Back when I was in college, my former tutor emphasised the significance of networking, but I didn't fully grasp its importance back then. Surprisingly, that advice has stuck with me over the years. Considering the numerous opportunities available across Europe and the USA, engaging in networking is an obvious choice for personal growth, career advancement and bolstering your confidence.

Do you think that there should be a focus on allowing apprentices to have the chance to work at events like The Open?

Sam: I believe that allowing apprentices to take part in tournaments is a great idea. The two that I have done, have both been really eye-opening and have inspired me to try and progress my career. I think this could also make apprentices want to better themselves.

Aaron: Absolutely. I have applied to work at the Open in the past few years through BIGGA, but regrettably, I haven't been successful until now. However, upon arriving, I was delighted to learn that 70% of the bunker support team were also first-timers.

Sam Ludlow at The Open 2023

Will you implement anything you have learned into your own course management?

Sam: I feel like the attention to detail I saw was phenomenal. This is something I really picked up on and know it's something I can help to improve at Luffenham Heath.

Aaron: Participating in these tournaments ignites a strong desire to succeed and propels one's career within the industry.

Did working at The Open give you a sense of pride or proudness?

Sam: Being picked to be part of the BIGGA support team was a real honour and, when I was walking around the golf course raking bunkers for the best players in the world on one of the best golf courses in the world, I felt a real sense of pride.

Aaron: Definitely. It's among the largest tournaments globally and being a part of it fills me with immense pride. The experience is invaluable - nothing could replicate the feeling of being acknowledged and appreciated within the industry.

Can you tell us a little bit about the process of signing up/applying to work at The Open? Was this difficult?

Sam: I applied last year for the Bigga support team and unfortunately didn't get on, but I tried again this year and was fortunate to succeed. I saw the application form online and just had to answer a few simple questions about myself. It only took a few minutes, so I would really recommend anybody thinking about doing it to just go for it!

Aaron: You must be a member of BIGGA. The application process is straightforward and can be found on their website. I'm sure that the application for Royal Troon will open towards the end of this year, so keep an eye out and submit your application. You'll be glad you did and it's an opportunity worth pursuing.

All those years ago when you first started out could you of imagined you would one day be preparing courses for the best golfers on the planet?

Sam: When I was a 16-year-old lad raking bunkers at my home club Peterborough Milton, I would have never of thought I would have been doing it on the biggest stage six years down the line!! It's an experience I will never forget.

Aaron: While our crew didn't handle the turf preparation for the golfers, we took immense pride in maintaining the bunkers throughout the week. A big shout out to the entire greenkeeping team involved; the course was superb. I want to extend a massive thank you to BIGGA; their hospitality, from start to finish, was truly top-notch.