Från svensk links till lerig grönska: hantverksmässig skötsel på svenska golfbanor

Abstract

When you think about golf courses today you will probably picture an incredibly green course with newly cut grass or viewpoints that will lead the eye. These environments are a result of a rich sports history, resources and continuous work to improve the courses. The aim of this publication is to look closer at the management of golf courses in Sweden. By diving into the history of golf courses and connecting it to present time we can see the original inspiration and why these environments look the way they do today. The perspective of this thesis focuses on the craftsmanship that the management of golf courses is built upon. What sort of management is recommended from the Swedish Golf society, and how does it play out in reality? What sort of management it prioritized when it comes to subjects like practicality, playability or aesthetics? Are there alternative views on the subject of golf course management? These are the subjects that will be discussed through literary research and interviews with both players and greenkeepers. The study is bound to golf courses located in the southern region of Sweden known as Götaland. The different types of courses that are in focus are Links courses, Park courses and Heathland courses. The results include the answers off greenkeepers from Falsterbo, Mariestad GK and Skövde GK. It’s followed by a discussion that brings up subjects like craft-based knowledge, biodiversity and digital tool for a greener future.