[Kim Maengnyeong's Golf English Conversation] 'Aeration and Special Rate'

Aeration is a maintenance process to protect and nurture the grass.

'Aeration'.

In spring and autumn, holes are made in the greens and fairways to supply fresh air and moisture, promoting healthy turf growth. This maintenance work is called 'Aeration and top dressing', also known as 'applying a layer of soil'. After major tournaments like the Masters, golf courses often perform aeration due to extensive damage to the greens. This process efficiently delivers oxygen and essential nutrients needed for life to the soil.

Golfers always want to play on the best possible fairways and greens. Golf courses drill numerous small holes twice a year in the fairways and greens to reduce the amount of carbon dioxide trapped in the soil and supply oxygen to the turf. They also fill the holes with a mixture of fertilizer and sand to help the grass grow healthily. On days when sand is spread or holes are made on the course, it is difficult to have a perfect game.

Golf courses inform golfers of these conditions in advance when booking and post notices on bulletin boards. They also sometimes offer discounts on green fees. It is advisable for golfers to avoid courses undergoing aeration if possible. Going just because the fee is cheaper might spoil a rare weekend round. For reference, the process of exposing red wine to air before drinking it to let it 'breathe' is also called aeration.

A: Windsor Golf Club. May I help you?

B: Yes, I would like to know how much your green fees are.

A: Are you a member of the club?

B: No, I’m not.

A: For non-members, the green fees are $120 for a round. However, now the greens and fairways are being aerated and top dressed. So we will give you a special rate at $80 a round.

Written and photographed by Kim Maengnyeong, Golf Columnist