More improvements for Hicksteads International Arena
More improvements for Hicksteads International Arena World specialist appointed to improve turf STRI (Sports Turf Research Institute) has been appointed by Hickstead to improve the standard of the surface in the International Arena. The turfgrass experts will also manage the installation of a new, state-of-the-art surface next year. STRI is a market leader in the turfgrass industry and in 2007 renovated the surface at the Royal Dublin Society. |  |
Hickstead director Edward Bunn said: "We are are always looking to improve the going in the International Arena and delighted to be working with the world's leading expert in this area. They will be monitoring the arena during the shows over the next two months. Together we will be measuring a number of performance criteria such as hardness, traction, drainage, grass cover and hoof penetration."
Richard Hayden, Director of Operations at STRI, together with the Bunn family presented an improvement plan at a meeting with the participating Chefs d'Equipes during the La Baule show jumping event in France last week.
Richard Hayden commented: "We are confident that the improvements we make to the surface for 2010 will ensure the riders see a notable difference in their performance. Last year's event was criticised when the footing failed to hold up following severe weather conditions.
"This August we will begin reconstructing the arena in a similar way to the renovations we managed at the Royal Dublin Society, giving Hickstead a quality surface to be proud of. We will be re-grading the subsoil and updating all drainage and irrigation systems. The new turf will be grown from seed, and with the improvements in the infrastructure will demonstrate both strength and durability."
The appointment of STRI has won the seal of approval from John Roche, FEI Director of Jumping, who has backed plans to improve the surface and encouraged support from the riders, stating that the science based approach STRI provide is the correct way to proceed.
Added on: 29/05/10.
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