A small, first-time delegation of TurfNet members is attending BTME (BIGGA Turf Management Exhibition) Jan 12-20 as an extension of Jon Kiger's visit and speaking engagements at BTME last year.  Invited back for another go on the podium this year, Jon thought it would be fun and educational to bring a group of TN members along for not only the BIGGA conference, but also for a side trip to St. Andrews and nearby courses.

Attendees include

• long-time TurfNet member Tony Girardi, CGCS, of Rockrimmon Country Club, Stamford, CT
• TurfNet Superintendent of the Year Matt Gourlay, CGCS, of Colbert Hills, Manhattan, KS.
• Rodney Hine and Bryce Fischer of Boston Golf Club, Hingham, MA
• former TurfNet intern Peter Braun of The Minikahda Club, Minneapolis, MN
• Jon Kiger of TurfNet

The plan was to kick off with a pre-BTME side trip to St. Andrews starting on Wednesday, Jan 11, but everyone opted to arrive early, on their own nickel. Not one to let any trip to the British Isles go by without a visit to Ireland, Jon Kiger took advantage of the free stopover in Dublin that Aer Lingus offers when connecting to the UK from the States, heading over this past Friday. Tony Girardi joined him on Sunday, and Matt Gourlay and Peter Braun on Monday.

Rodney Hine and his assistant Bryce Fischer flew directly into Edinburgh and visited another course in St. Andrews before meeting up with the rest of the group.

Next up: Kiger and Girardi on the loose