Jon Kiger: Honorary members of Team TurfNet...
When we arrived to start work on the Irish Open at the K Club we were surprised to meet two other Americans in town to help with the event. John Fleck (Colden, NY) and Brian Coyne (Hamburg, NY) are longtime friends of Gerry Byrne's and worked during the 2006 Ryder Cup.
They were back to bring their many years of golf management expertise to tournament week. John is currently with Professional Turf Services and Brian is a longtime superintendent in upstate New York. They were instantly deemed honorary members of Team TurfNet.
They have been here all week, rolling (or 'greensironing' in the local vernacular) greens in the morning and then blowing bunkers and surrounds. It has been great fun sharing this international experience with them and hearing all the stories from over the years.
They bring strength, stamina, and expertise the many jobs they do around the course. They are also having a great time along with the rest of us.
Brian Coyne rolling a green at the K Club
John Fleck blowing out a bunker.
Frank Byrne (Gerry's brother and a local turf supplier) with Brian Coyne.
Lifelong friends John Fleck (left) and Brian Coyne (right) enjoying the craic in Ireland.
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