Kirkcaldy Golf Club’s greenkeeping team have seen an instant lift in course presentation thanks to the arrival of two Jacobsen machines — an LF570 fairway mower and an AR522 rotary mower.
Head Greenkeeper Callum White, who joined the Fife club in April 2024 from nearby Charleton GC, says the pair have already changed daily routines for himself, deputy Mark Hood and trainee Finn Wallace.
“We’ve had them since April, just as the warm weather arrived,” says Callum. “They’ve slotted into our programme perfectly, and the improvement to presentation was immediate.”
Securing reliable mowing equipment was one of Callum’s first priorities on taking up the post. Familiar with Jacobsen’s reputation for quality of cut, he turned to Fairways GM Area Sales Manager, Mike Lindsay, who was able to highlight two refurbished models about to land. The club committee quickly approved the deal.
One of Callum’s main aims was to raise the standard of the rough — both in quality and appearance.
“The Jake cut is very precise and much healthier for the grass than what we had been using. I also really wanted to show definition across the course and have the ability to stripe,” he explains.
Deputy Course Manager Mark Hood has taken ownership of the AR522, which has proven indispensable. “On our steeper holes — notably the 1st and 17th, which play straight up and down — that 4WD is essential. Without it, you simply wouldn’t get up there.”
It now takes Mark around three days to cut the rough each week at 39 mm. “It’s so much faster than what we used before, and it keeps the finish more uniform. Our golfers really appreciate the upgrade as it speeds up play.”
Callum manages the fairways himself with the LF570, delivering a healthier, more precise cut. Fairways are also cut weekly at 12 mm, taking around 1.5 days to complete.
“We haven’t had much rain in four weeks, so they’ve dried out, but once they get moisture they really bounce back — and the machine shows that improvement immediately.”
The reaction from members has been overwhelmingly positive.
“Everyone is really pleased with the progress we’re making. The close, crisp finish gives better playability and really enhances presentation.”
Kirkcaldy is a fine example of a classic parkland course — and it has a special place in golfing history as the final course designed by Old Tom Morris.
