The R&A Clubhouse at Continue to Learn

9am - 10am

Grab a coffee and meet and network with The R&A's leading experts in Agronomy
(Including The Open Championship and AIG Women's Open Trophies)

10.30 - 11.15am

Measuring golf green agronomic and surface performance in championship and club situations

Paul Woodham, The R&A - Matthew Pringle, USGA
Join the USGA and the R&A to discuss the value of data-collection and the impact it can have on the golf experience. Taking lesson learned from USGA and R&A research programs and championships and apply them to your facility. No matter your budget or location, this is valuable information to help you meet your site-specific goals and provide an excellent golf experience.

12 noon - 12.30pm

Gordon Howat, Greg Smeaton, The R&A
The challenges in golf course construction are becoming more complex and extensive. Gordon will look at where the challenges are coming from and the impact this is having on the industry as a sustainable future that is resilient to these challenges is sought after. Greg will be showcasing technology and how the use of technology in construction facilities time, cost and resource benefits.

1 - 1.45pm

Prof. Jacob Thomsen
In this interactive session, you'll discover your sustainability strengths, identify areas for improvement, and explore where to take your next steps - or how to begin your sustainability journey - with practical insights for golf courses of all types.

2.30 - 3pm

Sharon Bruce, ETL
Overview of soil analysis and what it means. From the most common analysis such as Organic Matter content and Golf Green indexing to some of the lesser-known physical testing methods which may help you in areas such as material selection and depth of profile construction.

4 - 4.30pm

Richard Windows & Gordon Howat The R&A, Jordan Booth, USGA
Richard and Gordon will be discussing golf green specifications, and the challenges that must be overcome in 2026. After reviewing current guidance and the reflecting on ongoing performance and management of USGA greens, topics such as climate change, turf health and limited resources will be considered as the R&A looks to plot a sustainable pathway for new golf green constructions in the future.

9 - 10am

Grab a coffee and meet and network with the international team working for and with The R&A's, providing leadership and expertise in Agronomy and Sustainability

10.30 - 11am

Pablo Munoz & Richard Windows, The R&A
Clipping volume measurement offers turf managers powerful insights into turfgrass growth consistency and plant performance. By tracking clipping yield trends, managers can detect early signs of stress, assess fertiliser and growth regulator effectiveness, optimise nutrient applications and improve ball roll performance. This session will review standard measurement protocols and share practical examples of how to interpret results and trends to guide data-driven agronomic decisions.

Pablo Munoz & Luiz Conejo, The R&A
Efficient irrigation is essential to achieving uniform turf quality and sustainable agronomy. This session explores key factors that influence water application and how each impacts turf performance. Key new strategies for assessing and improving irrigation efficiency will also be reviewed, as well as water conservation practices that supports responsible resource use.

1.30 - 2pm

Richard Windows, The R&A - Matt Pringle, USGA
A look back on data collection methods for golf green performance in the UK to present day with the introduction of the USGA GS3, Moisture Meter and Deacon platform. Learn how the technology works and what it can do for you to elevate green performance at the same time as optimising inputs by working to targets. 

2.30 - 3pm

Adam Newton, R&A and Jordan Booth, USGA
Join Adam Newton of The R&A and Jordan Booth of the USGA as they discuss the challenges and lessons learned from championship agronomy. Get insights into previous championships and preparations for the 2026 championship season. 

4 - 5pm

Networking and panel session with inspiring women from the world of golf, turf and sport.

9 - 9.30am

Grab a coffee and meet and network with The R&A's team and fellow golf club and course leaders.

9.30 - 10.15am

Dr John Fry
This interactive workshop helps delegates assess their golf club’s core market demographic and ensure course quality levels reflect this, by identifying key maintenance priorities. The session combines research insights with collaborative exercises, and attendees receive takeaway copies of the R&A’s ‘Golf Course Condition and Playability’ resource documents for continued implementation.

10.30 - 11.15am

Prof. Jacob Thomsen
Sustainability is not a department in your club...  It is a core part of your club! Before you start your first sustainable project you should measure your motivation to make sure it becomes a success - this interactive session will help you do that.