STRI plays host to International Researchers

STRI plays host to International Researchers

On 13 July, STRI played host to 98 international researchers from the ITRC (International Turfgrass Research Conference) on a glorious sunny day in Bingley.

The ITRC conference, organised by the International Turfgrass Society, is held every four years. This year is the 10th conference and the main programme was held in Llandudno, North Wales, from 10-15 July. The first conference, held in Harrogate in 1969, was co-hosted by STRI.

The visitors enjoyed a combined presentation from STRI's Soils and Sports Surface Science team and the Turfgrass Biology and Environment team, followed by a tour of the trials grounds. Lunch was taken at Oakwood Hall Hotel.

The party then drove back over the Pennines to pay a visit to the City of Manchester Stadium, home to Manchester City F.C.; the pitch was designed and project managed by STRI in 2003.

The stadium was developed in two stages; initially built to host the Commonwealth Games in July 2002, STRI designed and managed the central grassed area. Immediately after the games, the athletic track and infield area were removed and the level of this central area reduced to accommodate additional seating for Manchester City. The new central pitch was then constructed in readiness for the start of the 2003 football season.