January 7, 2010

COLUMBUS, OH — The Carl Spackler Open has signed another athlete to compete its 2010 major championship. Chris Philipsen has signed his letter of intent and ready to give it a go. The 6-time member joins a strong field of players from Ohio.

"Chris has tremendous success at the national level," noted Vice President of Online Scoring, Greg Garrett. "Chris has showcased his accuracy, short game prowess, and course management skills last season in the Virtual Tournament. I expect to be entering lower than average scores for him."

"The jacket is mine," were the simple words used to describe Chris Philipsen dreams and decision to sign his national letter of intent. He signs as the 11th golfer and the 5th golfer to represent the state of Ohio.

Garrett asked, "Didn't you predict winning the jacket last year?" Philipsen replied, "Yes, but this time is the real deal."

"I am a father now. I have matured. I have a baby girl who expects me to win. The outlook on my golf game this spring will be grim, which will boost my handicap. I'll rely on experience and dedicate my jacket to her."

Chris Philipsen registered for the Open after purchasing a pair of $74 + tax airline tickets between Columbus, OH and Houston, TX.

"Looking forward to a sunburn during the practice round," says Philipsen of his registration. "I want to my skin to be golden brown to match my jacket."

He is the 12th best golfer in Spackler History. "I have finished strong for the past four years," said Philipsen. "This includes a top 21 finish in Virginia, which gives me tremendous confidence going into the Texan event."

Philipsen, a.k.a. Moneymaker, finished in 35th position in Mountain Valley's 68-player tournament. He grabbed 20th position at the Neuse and a strong 13th in Michigan.

Moneymaker slipped up twice in Indiana. He placed a career worst 42nd and lost to buddy Rich Armstrong by 1 point.

"Chris should be content with not wearing any outfits," said buddy Greg Garrett. "Instead, his head is messed up. To win a jacket with handicaps considered will take a lot of risk. He really needs to take his game to another level; a level that I have not seen."

Philipsen did place 13th in the 2009 Virtual Tournament and is expected to participate as one of the event's Top 20 most skilled golfers.

The 2010 Carl Spackler Open Championship begins with its practice round on April 15. There are 40 to 60 participants expected for the 10th event.