Bandon Dunes Golf Resort is celebrating its 25th anniversary, and it has become a model for many other developers in the golf industry. Michael Keiser, along with his brother Chris, have followed in their father Mike Keiser’s footsteps and have found success at Sand Valley in Wisconsin and beyond. Michael Keiser recently spoke with Golfweek about the resort’s upcoming anniversary and the impact it has had on the game of golf.
Keiser shared his earliest memories of visiting Bandon Dunes in the ’80s, walking the trails with Shorty Dow, and experiencing the beauty and adventure of the area. He credits his father with inspiring a movement of developers to seek out their dream golf sites and turn them into reality, putting a premium on golf course architecture and natural beauty.
One of the key pieces of advice that Keiser has received from his father is to always put the golf first. This means taking the time to find a great site, work with a talented architect, and have patience throughout the development process. Keiser emphasizes the importance of going slow and not rushing the process, which he believes is the secret sauce to their success.
As other developers and resort operators seek out advice, Keiser encourages them to slow down and focus on the customer experience. He believes that taking the time to build a course over several years can result in a better end product. Keiser enjoys sharing his insights with both established developers and up-and-coming newcomers in the industry.
Keiser also attributes his father’s success to his charisma and ability to connect with people. He emphasizes the importance of being present with employees and customers, accepting every meeting request, and making people feel heard and valued. The focus at Bandon Dunes is on delighting guests and empowering employees to do so in their own way.
Overall, Keiser believes that the secret sauce of Bandon Dunes lies in their focus on customer delight, the passion of their employees, and the energy that guests bring to the resort. People who come to Bandon to play golf are planning their trips months or even years in advance, bringing excitement and energy to the resort. The experience of playing golf at Bandon Dunes is one of adventure, beauty, and exceptional customer service that keeps people coming back year after year.
