Agrotain presents painting

St. Louis -- Agrotain International announced the recipient of "Crowds Have No Place Here," the first in a series of paintings that pay tribute to the hard work and dedication of golf course superintendents everywhere.

Greg Hollick, superintendent at Ballymeade Country Club won the original painting "Crowds Have No Place Here."

Agrotain presented the painting to Greg Hollick, superintendent at Ballymeade Country Club in North Falmouth, Mass., on March 9 at the New England Regional Turf Conference. Hollick was one of more than 500 superintendents to take the "Stabilized Nitrogen Challenge" while at the Golf Industry Show making him eligible to win the original painting.

"It was great to learn that I was receiving this fine piece of art ... I plan to proudly hang it above my mantle at home," says Hollick. "Rarely are superintendents recognized for their hard work and dedication, so for that I'd like to commend Agrotain for thinking of us in such a big and beautiful way."

In addition to the original framed oil painting, Agrotain gave away 50 signed and numbered artist prints suitable for framing, as well as a commemorative poster to every superintendent to take the nitrogen challenge.

The painting, which showcases the sixth hole at Crooked Stick Golf Club, is the work of Sandy Cashman Schmieder. It is the first painting in the "Artistry of Golf" series, designed to recognize golf course maintenance professionals who combine the best of science and intuition to successfully practice their art.

"The response from superintendents at GIS was outstanding," says Alan Nees, vice president of Turf and Ornamental Sales at Agrotain International. "Work is already under way on the next painting, which is set for unveiling next year in New Orleans."