At grassroots level, maintaining a high-quality playing surface is no small task - especially when faced with heavy usage and unpredictable weather.
For CPD Penrhyndeudraeth FC, Volunteer Groundsman Aled Thomas has seen first-hand how the right equipment can transform pitch maintenance, with the combination of an EK1-261 compact tractor from Kubota equipped with a SISIS Quadraplay keeping fixtures on and players happy.
Involved since 2005, Aled’s role has evolved with the club’s growing needs – starting out marking the lines on matchday before taking on his current role in 2016.
Today, the main pitch and neighbouring training pitch hosts one senior team and five junior squads, with near-daily training fixtures throughout the summer months and match days once or twice a week.
With only a ride-on mower and large, heavy slitter – unsuited to the pitch – at Aled’s disposal, the club’s fortunes changed in April 2025 thanks to a successful funding application via the Cymru Football Foundation. “We went through the process with local dealer Major Owen and, following a pitch inspection and recommendations from the Grounds Management Association’s Pitch Advisory Service, we took delivery of the Kubota EK1-261, Quadraplay and a fertiliser spreader thanks to the ‘Fit for Future Equipment Fund’.”
“The difference it has made has been immediate and significant” he explains. “Because of the competitive price point of the EK1, we were able to secure a premium implement which has made a real difference to the presentation and playability of our pitch.”
The EK1 Series from Kubota combines simple operation and powerful performance in a compact, entry-level package ideal for grassroots clubs. Powered by a fuel-efficient 3-cylinder 24hp diesel engine, the highly manoeuvrable EK1-261 doesn’t compromise when it comes to comfort with a range of features including optimally positioned controls, a weight-adjustable operators’ seat and foldable ROPS protection enhancing both productivity and safety.
“The number of features which come as standard are above and beyond what you’d normally expect from a tractor at this price point, so we get something that’s well equipped yet straight forward to operate and maintain.”
Aled continues, “We run the EK1 and Quadraplay before a game to boost presentation and again after, if needed, to rectify any damage. We’ve had comments from players and fans about the condition and appearance of the pitch which is particularly rewarding considering the very difficult weather we’ve had here this winter.”
While Aled admits he’s not had any issues with the EK1 since he took delivery, he notes that the 5-year Kubota warranty and support from Major Owen delivers fantastic additional peace of mind. “By looking after the equipment, we know it will look after us in the longer term. Major Owen, too, have been an incredible ongoing support both to me and the club, whether it’s sponsoring our away kit or helping us out with additional equipment when required. We are hugely grateful.”
He adds, “At this level of the game, consistency is key and having to call games off is not only frustrating but impacts on player development. This combination of equipment has undoubtedly helped to not only keep more games on but improve enjoyment with the pitch being in much better shape.”
