Turf Illustrated Q3

Owner of the largest Sustainable Turf Farms in Thailand and Vietnam, we are Asia’s leading producer of Certified Turf Grasses. Join us in creating a greener future for the turf industry

• PRODUCTS HIGHLIGHT

Shibaura

Cutting a path through Asia

Shibaura has become a leading brand in Southeast Asia’s turf industry, with a 232% increase in sales over the past two years. Known for its simple, robust design, Shibaura’s turf mowers and top dressers are ideal for facilities with limited technical expertise. The machines’ easily sourced local parts and high-quality Japanese steel further enhance their reliability. As the exclusive distributor in Asia, Sports Turf Solutions highlights Shibaura’s practicality over high-tech gimmicks, offering superior performance without the need for extensive training or costly repairs.

Leroad, a new standard in luxury vehicles

Sports Turf Solutions drives vehicles across Southest Asia

Sports Turf Solutions has supplied and supported over 3,000 vehicles throughout Vietnam. In late 2019, after Textron closed its assembly plant in China, Jiaxing took over and improved the vehicle line, reintroducing it under the Leroad brand. Sports Turf Solutions was granted distribution rights for Leroad in Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Myanmar, and Cambodia. With a new body design, improvements to the operating system, and the incorporation of AC motor/e-brake and lithium battery technology, the Leroad vehicle is built to match the highest standards of any vehicle on the market, leading to a surge in sales. Notable clubs to take delivery of fleet vehicles include Black Mountain & Blue Canyon Golf Club in Thailand, BRG Golden Sands Golf Resort, BRG Kings Island, and Dragon Links Golf Club in Vietnam.

Rolling Masterclass with Dr. Thomas Nikolai and Tru-Turf

The Doctor of green speed

Discover the secrets to perfect golf course maintenance in Dr. Thomas Nikolai’s masterclass. Learn the updated “Top Ten Reasons to Roll” based on decades of research. Uncover insights on turf diseases, soil moisture, fungi, and the revolutionary “Roll More, Mow Less” strategy for sustainable golf course care. Dr. Nikolai’s tips on dormant rolling and aeration will elevate your turf management.

• 2024 GRASSING NEWS

Record year for Sports Turf Solutions

With unprecedented demand for market leading turf solutions

Sports Turf Solutions (STS) is experiencing a record-breaking year in 2024, driven by increased demand for its top-tier turf solutions across major developments in Southeast Asia. The company has secured over 50 projects, including high-profile golf courses in Vietnam, and continues to expand its presence with new turf farms in Vietnam, Malaysia, and the Philippines. STS attributes its success to data-driven decision-making, sustainable practices, and a focus on quality assurance, cementing its reputation as a leader in turf management.

West Lakes Golf & Villas

Success story

West Lakes Golf and Villas, located in Long An Province near Ho Chi Minh City, is a residential golf course designed by Thompson Perrett, featuring natural lakes with clear water.

Despite initial concerns about low pH water and soil, Zeon Zoysia thrived, becoming a highly successful grow-in project. The course has improved steadily over the years with a conservative budget, limited machinery, and a small maintenance team, allowing the club to be very profitable.

Sports Turf Solutions (STS) has been involved from the very beginning, starting with the planting of Zeon Zoysia and Tif Eagle Bermuda grasses – both supplied by STS – through to the completion of the construction and grow-in phase. Following the construction, the owners engaged STS to oversee the ongoing maintenance, which included the placement of superintendent Mr. Mai Van Tuong and planning and programming with Head of Agronomy, Evan Du Plessis.

Lynkz Zoysia

The next generation of turf grass

After nearly a decade of testing in the USA, Vietnam, and Thailand, Lynkz Zoysia is now making its debut in Asia! Designed for the region’s climate, it offers superior drought tolerance, faster recovery, and thrives with up to 50% less water and 90% fewer chemicals than other turf varieties. Trials show Lynkz Zoysia can endure up to 10 days without water while maintaining green speeds over 13 feet with no stress. Even after six months without nutrients or maintenance, the surface still putts true. Already in use at premier golf courses like Hann Reserve in the Philippines, Lynkz Zoysia is also being adopted by Mount Malarayat Country Club and the upcoming Chhun On Golf Resort in Cambodia, setting a new standard for sustainability, performance, and low maintenance in turf management.

• GOLF INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

From Passion to Profession – STS Developing Local Talent

The journey of Mai Van Tuong in golf course management

Mai Van Tuong stands as a prime example of how local talent can thrive through the support and guidance of Sports Turf Solutions. Starting with a passion for turf maintenance at Sports Turf Solutions, Van Tuong has grown into a pivotal figure in the industry, taking on the role of Superintendent at West Lake Golf & Villas since May 2022.

Mai Van Tuong has skillfully maintained the golf course’s high standards while optimizing resources. Through the support and guidance he received, the course continues to flourish with over 45% budget savings and a streamlined team, demonstrating that excellence can be achieved even with fewer resources. His commitment is evident in his preparation for numerous big tournaments, ensuring the golf course is always in top condition. His journey reflects the impact of targeted mentoring and the potential of local talent in Vietnam’s growing golf industry.

“Thank You Super Day” Campaign

Tru-Turf takes a stands for greenkeepers’ mental health and well-being

Greenkeepers are the unsung heroes of golf courses. They work hard, no matter the weather, to keep our courses looking beautiful and provide us with a great golfing experience. But behind their dedication, they also face challenges like stress and loneliness.

Let’s show our appreciation for these hardworking individuals by following the THANK YOU SUPER DAY CHALLENGE campaign to spread positive messages about mental health and the importance of the greenkeeping profession.

Let’s come together to support and create a better work environment for our greenkeepers!