Ayr Racecourse

The challenges

In May 2010, STRI was appointed to undertake an independent assessment of the Flat and National Hunt tracks, following concerns regarding the condition of the surface and its capability to recover sufficiently well after race meetings. The course as a whole, had not recovered well after the winter period, and the impact that this had was not aided by the cold spring which followed.

STRI specialists were consulted to help improve the quality of the turf. All recommendations made by STRI meet the specific criteria outlined for track standards by the British Horseracing Authority (BHA), whose guidelines are in place to ensure consistency across all racecourse venues throughout the UK.

The objectives

• To investigate the performance of the track and to assess the different parameters which were influencing this.
• To examine the composition of grass species in the turf and to provide recommendations to ensure the most optimum species required for racing are prevalent.
• To undertake both chemical and mechanical analysis of the Flat and National Hunt tracks to define the current status of both the surface and soil profile.
• To provide an overall site assessment with a view to making recommendations and improvements going forward.
• To provide ongoing support to staff at the racecourse.

The solutions

The initial assessment of both the jump and flat courses was prepared by STRI in May 2010. To meet the requirements outlined by the BHA, assessments were carried out for turf density & uniformity; composition; sward colour & density; soil profiles; drainage status; weeds, pests & diseases; nutrition; Ph; surfactant; growth regulators; oversowing and maintenance.

By visually assessing the course, it was immediately apparent that there were issues with the colour and density of the sward. In order to ascertain the necessary action to remedy this, eight samples were taken from various areas of the track which underwent chemistry tests for pH, P & K content. A further eight samples were taken for mechanical testing to establish the composition of the soil and the percentage of sand, silt and clay content. Further random sampling of the track is put in place for all inspections. Visual assessment of organic matter, soil structure, root biomass and internal drainage characteristics are contextualised with laboratory analysis and maintenance input. Samples were also taken to establish organic matter content and soil texture.

Results from the tests showed that the soil was a mixture of loamy sand and sandy loam and that organic matter was present in the top area of the soil profile. The soil pH had a low of 5.7 and a high of 6.2 depending upon where the sample was taken from. Soil compaction had been noted in samples taken at 80-100mm depths, which also indicated shallow rooting. A programme of Verti-Draining was recommended to open up the soil and allow the roots to follow the holes created to establish stronger roots and grass plants.

The use of a wetting agent was recommended to regulate moisture and uptake of required nutrients to the turf during periods of dry weather. Rate of turf growth appeared to lack any kind of control, and was particularly poor during the early spring. A change was made to the way that fertiliser was being applied, and products containing different forms of nitrogen and other key elements to stimulate growth were introduced. STRI recommended that a programme of oversowing be carried out to improve the composition of the grass species. It was advised that a mix of suitable perennial ryegrass cultivars be used as this is a very deep-rooting grass that has the ability to establish quickly and tolerate heavy wear – which makes it ideal for areas that experience a lot of wear and tear. It also creates a cushion-like surface for the horses to race over.

STRI recommended that the fixed rail be changed to a movable one, to allow for repairs to the turf to be completed. An unsuitable backfill material had been used at the crossing sides and this had impacted negatively upon turf growth, leaving the surface uneven. Any minor changes apparent in the surface can cause alarm to the horses and in order to rectify this, STRI advised that the sides were dug out and replaced with a more suitable sub-soil/rootzone and returfed, thereby eliminating any potential for distress.

The results

• By November 2010, the course saw major improvements to the uniformity, colour, and density of the sward and to the overall nutrition of the site.
• The course recovered more quickly after the flat season.
• The balanced nutritional programme had a positive impact upon both the flat and jump courses.
• Work undertaken at the crossing sides was successful, providing both a stable surface to race upon and a more conducive environment for turf establishment.
• The client received worthy recognition in the industry following the upgrade, winning one of the most prestigious honours in the racing industry – the Neil Wyatt Ground Staff Award for the Best Dual Purpose Course.