We launched our brand-new regional event series, GMA Connect, at Ashton Gate Stadium yesterday (Tuesday), featuring a day packed with live demonstrations and direct access to leading figures and cutting-edge technologies in grounds management.
Designed to connect local professionals, GMA Connect offers a unique platform to discover innovative products and network with fellow peers from across the sector.
The inaugural event attracted attendees from a diverse range of organisations, with representation from professional rugby clubs including Bristol Bears, Bath Rugby, and leading educational institutions such as King Edward's School Bath, Clifton College, University of Bath, Millfield School and Cheltenham College.
Key figures from the cricket world were also present, including representatives from Cricket Wales, Hampshire Cricket Board and Gloucestershire County Cricket Club. The reach of the event even extended overseas, with ground staff from Dublin’s Croke Park making the trip.
Sean Smith, Groundsman at Croke Park in Dublin, said: “I work over in Dublin at Croke Park, and I've come here for the day to see the pitch at Ashton Gate and how its maintained compared to what we do. Seeing their sheds was very interesting and chatting to fellow groundspeople was really enjoyable. Every day I go into Croke Park, and you might not see outside of the walls, so it's great to come here and chat to other people to see what they do differently. It's been great to see a different side of things.”
Attendees had the chance to see the latest machinery and tools in action through live demonstrations from leading brands, including headline sponsor Cramer, as well as Fleet, The Pitchmark Group, GKB, ISEKI, Campey Turf Care, Abundigro, Aquatrols, Redexim and Trimax.
Jordan Watson, Area Sales Manager at headline sponsor Cramer, said: “We're here to support the GMA's new Connect events, and the first one here in Bristol. It's been great to showcase our products in front of GMA members and also show how we can support them. All grounds staff are busy working day in day out so it’s good to come together, share experiences and network. As an industry, we are relatively small so it’s good to stay tight and keep in touch with your peers.”
Sarah Hunter, Head of Events at the GMA, said: “The response to our first GMA Connect event has been overwhelmingly positive. We created this series to make it easier and more accessible for grounds staff to engage directly with suppliers and see kit in action, whilst having the opportunity to network with their fellow professionals, right on their doorsteps. Ashton Gate set the tone for what GMA Connect is all about.”
Following the success of the Bristol event, the GMA Connect series continues in Durham at Durham County Cricket Club on Wednesday 18 June.
Entry is free for GMA members and £15 for non-members. Non-members who join the GMA within 14 days can redeem the cost of their ticket against the membership fee.
GMA members benefit from expert guidance, tailored training and access to a network of professionals committed to creating and maintaining quality spaces.
