How did you come to join Engadine Golf Club? Do you remember your first impressions?
In 1990, I moved from Argentina to Italy to work as a golf pro at Fracia Golf in Valtellina, now known as Valtellina Golf & Country Club in Caiolo. Back then, the course only had par-3 holes, so I often took my students to the Engadin to play. That’s how I met Chasper Lüthi, the club director at the time. He offered me a position at Engadine Golf Club, and I’m still grateful to him to this day. My first day was 1 June 1992 – I remember it as if it were yesterday.
Did you ever imagine you would still be here 35 seasons later?
No, never! What started as a job has become an important part of my life. And the beauty of the Engadin still amazes me every single day.
You’re Argentinian, but these days you greet members with a cheerful “Guta Morga!” How Swiss have you become?
The Engadin has long since become my home. I’ve even adopted a few Swiss traits: I’m more punctual than some Swiss people (laughs). I also appreciate order and clear rules. But of course, my Argentinian roots will always be part of who I am.
35 years is almost a lifetime. Does it actually feel that long?
When the club congratulated me on my 35th season a few weeks ago and surprised me with a wonderful gift, I was taken aback. Of course, I know I didn’t arrive here yesterday. But 35 years? I needed a moment to let that sink in. And when the grandchildren of my former students suddenly turn up for a golf lesson, I realise just how much time has passed.
What has changed the most over the years?
When I first arrived, Samedan was a typical links-style course – yellowish-brown, with firm fairways and hardly any trees. Only the ancient larches were already there. All the other trees were barely a metre tall. And Zuoz didn’t even exist yet – not by a long shot! Teaching has changed enormously, too. Things were much simpler back then, without video analysis or modern technology. Then Reto Bodmer joined the club and, thanks to his generous support, made today’s Golf Center possible. His continued commitment ensures that we always have access to the latest training equipment.
Are there any little secrets on the golf course that not everyone knows about?
Plenty, I’m sure! Take the wine bottle at the 15th hole in Samedan, for example. Until a few years ago, a group of golfers would stop under a tree to the right of the 15th hole during every round for a leisurely picnic – complete with salami, cheese and wine. Naturally, they would let several groups play through while they enjoyed their break. An empty wine bottle tucked into the tree trunk still serves as a reminder of this tradition. And some of them are still regulars at Samedan! (smiles)
Even when you're not teaching, you're often out on the course practising on your own, sometimes late in the evening. What still fascinates you about golf?
Golf is so much more than a job to me. There’s always something new to discover and improve. Playing also helps me switch off and unwind. I’ve been incredibly lucky to turn my passion into my profession. It may sound a little cheesy, but I’m genuinely grateful for that every single day.
What’s the most common request you get from your students?
“I want to hit the ball further. What should I do?” I hear that all the time! (laughs)
And what do you tell them?
First of all, hitting the ball straight is far more important than hitting it far. Besides, we all lose distance as we get older – unfortunately, myself included! (laughs) That’s why I place much more emphasis on the short game. It’s something you can improve at any age, and it’s essential for a good score.
Is there a story that still makes you laugh today?
Oh yes! Like the time I had to dye my hair platinum blonde – back when I still had some! (laughs) In 2000, I bumped into one of my students at the time, Martin Rominger, in the club car park. I was on my way to the Lucerne Open, while Martin was competing in the Engadin Amateur Championship that same weekend. On the spur of the moment, we made a bet: if we both won, he would dye his hair red and I would go platinum blonde. And believe it or not, we both won! On Monday, we met again in the very same car park – Martin with bright red hair and me with platinum blonde. Pretty embarrassing, but absolutely unforgettable!
You still hold the course record at Samedan. What do you remember about that round – and why has the record stood for so long?
That was back in 1993. I was young, at the top of my game and competing in tournaments all over Switzerland practically every weekend. That day, I hit all 18 greens in regulation but only managed to convert eight birdie putts. The course was different back then, the ball rolled further, and there was relatively little wind that day. A round like that always involves a bit of luck, too. Sooner or later, someone will break the record. It’s only a matter of time.
What’s your favourite hole?
Definitely the 15th at Samedan.
Why that one?
This par 3 is beautifully situated among old trees and two lagoons, and it’s usually well sheltered, even when the Maloja wind is blowing hard. Although it’s the shortest hole on the course, it has its pitfalls and remains a real challenge.
Have you ever managed a hole-in-one there?
No! (laughs) It’s actually quite surprising: I’ve had 14 holes-in-one throughout my career, including one on a par 4. But on my home courses, Samedan and Zuoz, where I’ve played at least 4,000 rounds, I’ve only ever had one – on the 7th at Samedan.
What has golf taught you about people?
I always say: if you really want to get to know someone, play 18 holes with them! On the golf course, you see how people deal with success, frustration and unexpected situations. It often reveals a surprising amount about their character.
If you could play one more round with three people from the past 35 years who no longer play at the club, who would you choose?
First, José Rodrigues Sosa. He worked alongside me as a pro at Samedan for over ten years, and we also spent a lot of time together off the course. Sadly, he passed away far too young.
Then Armando Grandi, who was still taking lessons with me at the age of 93. We often travelled together. He was an extraordinary man who supported charitable projects around the world, usually without making a fuss about it. For example, he funded the construction of hospitals in Africa and helped bring clean drinking water to remote villages. I once asked him his secret to staying so fit well into old age. His answer? He ate tomatoes every day. I’ve been trying to follow his advice ever since! (laughs)
And finally, Ruth Lamm of Cashmere Lamm. For over 25 years, we played 18 holes together every Tuesday and Thursday. She was one of my most loyal clients, and we always had a wonderful time. Sadly, she no longer plays due to her age.
You don’t make it through 35 years all by yourself. Who would you particularly like to thank?
Oh, there are so many people! First and foremost, the club directors, especially Chasper Lüthi, who brought me to the Engadin, and Ramun Ratti, who has placed his trust in me for so many years.
Then Didi Serena, who supported me as a sponsor for over 20 years and became a good friend. Max Ammann and Willy Schneider, with whom I’ve played more than 50 Pro-Ams – a real dream team! And Michael Ringier and Alexander Kahane, who have been inviting me on their golf trips for years.
Of course, I also want to thank all my other students, many of whom have been with me for over 20 years. Without all these people, the past 35 years simply wouldn’t have been what they mean to me.
And finally, with a wink: What’s one story from the past 35 years that should never be told in an official interview?
Oh, there must be thousands! (laughs) But discretion is part of my profession – and part of who I am.
