Every greenkeeper remembers their first major tournament.
For me, my true greenkeeper tournament experience began when I saw a social media post searching for volunteers to assist with preparation for the Hassan II Golf Trophy in Morocco.
Through a colleague from the Czech Greenkeepers Association, I obtained a contact, sent my CV and waited. I honestly did not expect to be selected. When the confirmation came, it marked several firsts in my career: my first professional tournament preparation, my first collaboration between two major tours, and my first visit to Africa.
Excitement quickly mixed with nervousness.
First Impressions of Royal Golf Dar Es Salam
Arriving at Royal Golf Dar Es Salam was overwhelming. The resort’s scale is extraordinary — two 18-hole courses, one 9-hole layout, and another nine under construction, with plans for three full championship courses in the future.
The bunkering immediately stood out. Many bunkers follow an “Australian-style” concept, with darker sand tones visible in central areas, creating strong visual contrast and dramatic framing.
Interestingly, we had no time for a relaxed walk-through. Our first true introduction to the course came during our first shift. That is often the reality of a serious greenkeeper tournament experience — you step straight into responsibility.
Golf Tournament Preparation: Working Before Sunrise
Each day followed a similar structure. Transport from the hotel was organised with other volunteers, and some staff were already on the course before sunrise. Walk-behind mower operators and practice area crews often started in complete darkness.
We arrived around 6:00 a.m., though finishing times varied depending on assignments and course demands.
Because this was my first large-scale greenkeeper tournament experience, I was assigned to assist one of the head greenkeepers. In simple terms — I became his light.
The utility vehicle had no headlights, so wearing a headlamp, I illuminated the path during early inspections. During bunker checks, I focused the light on specific areas requiring adjustment. Precision in darkness requires trust, coordination, and attention to detail. At the end of the week, I left my headlamp as a small gift.
Bunker Preparation and Tournament-Level Precision
Bunker preparation during a professional event is completely different from everyday maintenance.
Most bunker work was carried out manually. In darkness, every rake mark becomes visible under artificial light. That means lighting must be positioned carefully, whether using headlamps, portable lights or vehicle beams.
At this level, presentation is not cosmetic — it is competitive integrity.
During a tournament of this magnitude, every millimetre matters. Players compete for significant prize money, and even the smallest imperfection can influence a shot outcome. This aspect of my greenkeeper tournament experience showed me just how high the standards truly are.
Machinery, Coordination and Mowing Patterns
The machinery fleet was primarily composed of Toro and John Deere equipment, while bunkers remained largely hand-finished.
One of the most impressive moments each morning was watching the fairway mowers operate in perfect synchronisation. Each operator had a designated section. Machines were checked, teams waited for a signal — and then moved forward simultaneously.
No confusion. No chaos. Just precision.
Fairways were cut in a strict 50/50 pattern — half dark, half light. Greens were mown in alternating directions daily to maintain consistency and optimise surface performance.
Morning checks included measuring green speed and monitoring moisture levels. During these tasks, I collaborated with a local greenkeeper, Faten, whose professionalism reflected the international level of the event.
Mistakes at this level are not easily forgiven. At worst, failure to meet standards could risk the tournament being relocated in future years.
The Pressure of a Professional Tournament Environment
There is a clear difference between daily course maintenance and a true greenkeeper tournament experience.
The pressure is constant, even if it is unspoken.
Professional players evaluate surfaces with every step. Tour officials conduct inspections. Expectations are uncompromising.
Yet despite this pressure, the atmosphere remained calm and structured. Each section had a leader responsible for coordination. Everyone checked their equipment, awaited instruction, and executed their tasks with discipline.
From airport pickup to final departure, the organisation was flawless.
Cultural Experience and Team Spirit
This was my first visit to Africa, and I did not know what to expect. Different culture, different customs, different climate.
What impressed me most was the resilience of the local staff, working in temperatures exceeding 40°C. Their work ethic and positivity were remarkable.
The atmosphere among international volunteers was fantastic. We were welcomed warmly and treated as part of the team from day one.
Meeting professional players, including Klára Davidson Spilková and Sára Kousková, added another dimension to the week. It reinforced the understanding that our work directly influences elite performance.
What This Greenkeeper Tournament Experience Taught Me
If I had to describe the week in three words:
Surprising. Friendly. Grateful.
This experience changed my perspective on the profession. It demonstrated the precision required at the highest level and the importance of communication within large maintenance teams.
Even when tournaments are hosted at the same venue annually, conditions are never identical. Weather changes. Setups evolve. Teams adapt. Every tournament week is unique.
Would I volunteer again?
Without hesitation.
A greenkeeper tournament experience is something every ambitious professional should consider. It is not only about preparing a course — it is about learning, adapting and becoming part of something larger than your daily routine.
When the tournament ended, I felt the same emotion I always feel after meaningful professional growth — anticipation for the next opportunity.
For any greenkeeper considering tournament volunteering:
It is an experience beyond price.
