DEMO & NETWORKING EVENT SERIES KICKS OFF

The GMA launched its new regional event series, GMA Connect, at Ashton Gate Stadium last week (13th May 2025),  featuring a day that included live demonstrations and access to figures and technologies in grounds management.

Designed to connect local professionals, the Association says GMA Connect offers a platform to discover products and network with 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 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 also 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."

Attendees had the chance to see the latest machinery and tools in action through live demonstrations from brands, including Cramer, Fleet, The Pitchmark Group, GKB, ISEKI, Campey Turf Care, Abundigro, Aquatrols, Redexim and Trimax. 

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.” 

The series continues in Durham at Durham County Cricket Club on Wednesday 18 June.