For those sadly lacking in historical golfing knowledge, this is the original form of the game and the Championship is played with historic clubs, gutta-percha balls – and in traditional dress, no less.

Even better is the venue – a stone’s throw from St. Moritz, where British spa and resort guests prompted the founding of the Alps’ first 9-hole course in 1891. Two years later, the Engadin Golf Club in Samedan was formed, the first 18-hole golf course in Switzerland – and it was at this same club that, last year, Switzerland became the 12th European country to hold its own National Hickory Championships.

2012 sees the 2nd Swiss Hickory Championship Days, open to both amateur and professional golfers. Traditional golf clubs will be provided by the organisers but all players will be expected to adopt the mandatory dress code, dating from the 1920s. So, gentlemen, prepare to don Plus Fours or Plus Twos, a long-sleeved shirt, a tie or bow-tie, long knee socks and a peaked or flat cap. Ladies, meanwhile, will play in a below-the-knee skirt, a blouse or sweater and – of course – a matching hat.

There are two tournament rounds in the programme: the 1st St. Moritz Swiss Hickory ProAm on Saturday 18 August, and the 2nd Swiss Hickory Championship on Sunday 19 August. The event is being organised by Delicious Golf, owned by St. Moritz resident Enrico Degiacomi, in cooperation with the Engadin Golf Club. And in case you’re wondering where to stay, the fabulous 5-star Suvretta House hotel is the Championship’s hospitality partner.

Photos: Delicious Golf