Khaleej Times had the chance to speak with Joel Stalter, a resident of Dubai, shortly before he departed for the renowned Euram Bank Open in Austria, part of the Challenge Tour. The eagerly awaited competition is set to run from July 18th to 21st, 2024, with a total prize money of €270,000.
The 32-year-old French golfer, who recently marked his birthday, emerged victorious in this event back in 2020 at the same location—GC Adamstal in Ramsau. That year, the event was affiliated with the DP World Tour. Stalter's performance included rounds of 65, 65, 68, and 68, culminating in a 72-hole score of 14 under par, totaling 266, securing him the top spot by two strokes ahead of Richard Mansell (Eng).
Stalter shared with Khaleej Times: “This week is bound to evoke many fond memories—it was my first significant win as a professional on the DP World Tour. I also clinched the Austrian Amateur Championship in 2011 at GC Adamstal, adding to its significance. I consistently stay at the same Bed and Breakfast near the golf course—the hosts are incredibly hospitable, offering excellent meals and a warm greeting. I am quite familiar with Vienna and Austria; the landscapes are breathtaking, and I feel very much at home here,” he elaborated.
Discussing his golfing strategy, Stalter remarked: “I feel my game is progressing well and is in good shape. I don't have high expectations for this week, but I will give it my all and maybe secure another win. That would be quite a tale—winning three times at the same venue—‘third time's the charm,’ as they say.”
This marks the seventh occasion the Euram Bank Open will be held at GC Adamstal, which has been a part of both the DP World Tour and the Challenge Tour. The golf course, measuring 6,473 yards and playing at a par 70, is one of the shortest on the Challenge Tour. Among the competitors this week are Joshua Grenville-Wood (UAE), Dubai resident Garrick Porteous (Eng), and Dominic Foos (Ger), who is affiliated with The Els Club, Dubai. Porteous currently ranks 20th, and Grenville-Wood 46th in the Challenge Tour’s Road to Mallorca Rankings.
