The GTI Advisor 13(9)

From the Editor

Return of the Turf Students

Students in the Associate Diploma in Turfgrass Management program returned to Guelph for a sooner-than-usual start to classes yesterday. Traditionally, classes started the first Monday after Labour Day but this year, the university elected to start classes this past Thursday. It shortens the orientation week which might not be a bad thing as it is a little challenging for faculty to draw students back into an academic mindset after a full week of full out university student "socializing".

We have an excellent group of new diploma students with representation from Prince Edward Island to British Columbia and all points in between. I had the pleasure of our first field trip class on Thursday and the new students enthusiatically followed me as we toured the GTI research plots and hiked through the Arboretum to take a look at the university sports fields including Alumni Stadium which had just been lined out for this weekend's home opener with the Gryphons hosting Queens.

The Gryphs lost 15-13 in their season opener to perennial powerhouse Laurier. Alumni and friends of the university are invited to participate in Homecoming 2008 on September 20th when the Gryphs host the McMaster Mauraders. Lots of other events before and after the game and there is a rumour that Dr. Lyons will be tailgating in the upper parking lot.

STA Field Day

I will be taking the new diploma students on our first off-campus field trip on Thursday, September 11th to attend the annual Sports Turf Association Field Day in Brampton. It looks to be a great day with Toronto Argonaut Mike Vanderjagt kicking the event off. He will be followed by a great looking slate of speakers as well as exhibits and a chance to check out the latest sports field management equipment in action. The long range forecast looks good so maybe I'll have a chance to drive one of those big large area mowers. If you see me boarding, best to stand clear.

Turf Club Golf Tournament

The Turf Club will be holding their 4th annual golf tournament on Friday, September 26th at Victoria Park East Golf Club here in Guelph. The tournament is a scramble format and all alumni and friends of the University of Guelph turf program are invited to join in the fun along with faculty, staff and students. The registration fee of $85 includes golf, cart, dinner and prizes. I am sure the students would not turn down any donations for the prize table.

For registration information, contact Cam Kusiek .

Out There on the Internet

This issue's wild and weird item from the world of turf on the Internet is again a mower, this time for Formula One fans.