Maintenance and Major Golf Events, Not a Real World Situation.

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Most golfers don't realize the work to prepare for a major tournament takes a tremendous effort. This level of conditioning cannot be sustained week-in and week-out without tremendous support. Also, such is the case for our recent member/guest, the greens are cut lower and rolled to the point that the greens would not live if we kept up the schedule for a week straight.  Hosting a U.S. Open involves many extra volunteers (many of those who are superintendents from nearby clubs) who help the maintenance staff accomplish countless tasks to put the course in shape. And thanks to the support of equipment companies who donate the extra needed mowers and machines to get the job done.

The following information was taken from the Congressional Country Club who hosted this year's U.S. Open:

GREENS FACTS:
• All greens were rebuilt in 2009 to USGA spec in preparation for the Open.
• Greens mowing height 0.10 inch
• Target Green Speed: 14-14.5 feet
• Only hand-watering on greens. The goal is to achieve firmness without compromising the health of the grass.

BUNKERS:
• New sand was added to all bunkers this year and rebuild 2 years ago.
• All bunkers are hand raked.

MAINTENANCE CREW:
• The Congressional CC crew size is 55 (we have 11 here at BCC)
• 3 mechanics were on staff during the Open
• Number of volunteers: 120. Most are experienced golf course superintendents and assistant superintendents who volunteer their time for the week.
• Volunteers are housed at nearby American University.
• Maintenance crew and volunteers are fed breakfast, lunch and dinner by chef at Congressional.
• Typical hours worked during championship: Morning shift 4 a.m. to 8 a.m. Afternoon shift 4:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Staff is on property throughout the day in case of rain.

EXTRA EQUIPMENT ON HAND:
• 6 walking greens mowers
• 8 turf rollers
• 4 walking collar mowers
• 19 fairway mowers
• 6 rotary rough units
• 2 mechanical bunker rakes
• 22 maintenance carts
• 36 squeegees

MOWING SCHEDULE
• All principal in-play areas will be mowed every day.
• Greens, tees and fairways are mowed twice a day.