The hallowed turf that was up for sale recently at Seddon Park in Hamilton was a hit with local cricket fans, businesses and cricket players alike.
15,000m2 of turf went up for sale at the start of May and Seddon Park Turf Manager Karl Johnson said he was impressed with the interest the sale created. “The entire outfield has gone. The likes of landscapers came in and got some. Quite a bit went out to Lake Karaprio for the rowing champs and some even went to Pukekoe for the stadium up there,” he said. “Some people even came in and grabbed just one roll for a bit of nostalgia. Lots of them enjoyed being able to drive onto the park.”
Even BLACKCAP and Northern Knights pace bowler Brent Arnel got in on the action. “He got about 50m2,” Johnson said. “He’s building a new house, so it worked out well.”
Johnson said it was a team effort getting the grass ready for sale and recognises his team for their hard work. “My boys deserve a pat on the back for their hard work, including cutting and rolling,” he said. “It’s not easy work! I’m sure some of them slept pretty well during the sale weeks!”
Johnson and his team are now focusing on reseeding the park ready for next season; however the wild weather has stalled proceedings. “We’ve been battling with the weather, but we will get it in shape for the summer,” he said. “We’ve got to reinstate the systems again, prepare the seed bed and get the levels sorted. We’re putting new rye grass down.”
