Dumeng, you have been in office for 15 years – almost an eternity…
(laughs) That’s true. In fact, I have been on the board since 2008. But the club has played an important role in my life since childhood. I used to work as a caddie, although I only started playing golf myself in 2006.
What is particularly important to you as President?
The club is very close to my heart. In my role, I mainly want to strengthen the club spirit – especially because the club itself is quite large. It’s important to me that we continue to create shared highlights and memorable moments together.
Do you have a personal highlight from all these years?
There are many, of course. But a very special moment for me was being able to accompany the club’s 125th anniversary as President. Throughout the year we organised various events and tournaments. One particular highlight was that the August 1st tournament was once again played in its original format as a Mixed Foursome.
The August 1st tournament is now called “The President’s Mixed Foursome Early Bird”. You personally sponsor the event…
The August 1st tournament had a special meaning for me even when I was a caddie. It had always been a dream of mine to organise it myself one day – traditionally as a Mixed Foursome and at the same time as an Early Bird event with a 7 a.m. start. That way, the course is open again for everyone from midday onwards, and there is still plenty of time for the national celebrations in the evening.
Am I right in assuming that the August 1st tournament is also your personal highlight of the season?
Yes, certainly one of them. But our club events are also extremely important to me – starting with the General Assembly, followed by the Club Match with the popular club evening, and culminating in the sporting highlight of the season, our Maestraunza (Club Championship).
Speaking of the General Assembly: the board was restructured this year. How are you organised now?
The board now consists of five members after two stepped down. Caroline Rosenberger remains Vice President and is responsible for membership and events. Daniel Moser continues to oversee the finances, and Flurina Maier is in charge of marketing. Nadja Heuberger is the new Captain, having previously served as Vice Captain.
We are a very good team. Responsibilities are clearly defined, but we work closely together – and no one feels that any task is beneath them.
As President, you are also something of an ambassador for the club. How important is this role to you and what values do you represent?
For me it is important to be present – both on the course and in the restaurant. I work in sales (laughs), so you have to like people and remain curious. Our director also helps a lot by introducing me to new members whenever possible.
That sounds like many new members. Many other clubs are currently struggling with declining membership…
That’s true, but we have been very fortunate in recent years. We have seen very positive membership growth and welcome around 80 new members on average every year. This has allowed us to keep our playing fees stable without any price increases for many years.
What is the secret behind this positive development?
Despite its size, the club has remained very down-to-earth and thrives on interaction with guests. Our golf professionals also play an important role as “membership generators”. They can do this because they genuinely stand behind the club. And I believe many people feel a strong connection to the Engadin – whether they own a second home here or simply return again and again. For a large part of our members, our club is their second club.
Finally: What are you most looking forward to in the upcoming season? What I look forward to most is seeing many familiar faces back on the course – and, of course, welcoming new members as well. Our club thrives on bringing people together, the love of the game, and the unique atmosphere here in the Engadin. When all of that comes together, it naturally makes for another great golf season. ⛳
