December 27, 2005

SKILLMAN, NJ — Nick Casale, a rookie of 2001, shot an average 16-over par and 55.2 points per round. This stellar play has earned a surprise first place finish in the season-long 2005 Virtual Tournament.

His lead over Mark Wray was 1.1 points per round and over Tom Fowble by 1.3 points per round.

While not so booming drives and staying out of trouble most of the day, Casale has steadily acquired a 14.9 Poststats Stroke Handicap and lowering scores each round.

"I am not getting the big numbers," says Casale. "I continue to make progress every week. There is a difference between consistency, crappy, and lucky. I was never lucky, used to be crappy, and now making a move to become a much better player."

Casale is playing all over New Jersey, including Cherry Valley, Trump National, Springdale, Lido, and the TPC at Jasna Polana. "Casale is a true champion," says Chad Long. "Lots more birdies, an eagle, and tons of pars is a much improved Nick Casale."

Behind Casale and Mark Wray, who also came out of nowhere putting wonderfully, stands a group of players that fought for the title. Tom Fowble finishes in 3rd place with Jean Dore and Mike Trojanowski rounding out the Top 5.

"Mike Trojanowski looked spectacular this season," says friend Jay Dilks. "He deserves a lot of credit."

Matt Davis loses the 2005 Virtual Tournament with 20.8 points per round. He stands to receive a ton of Poststats Points next Monday when the 2006 Virtual Tournament kicks off.

"The tournament was tight all the way to the end," says Don Creighton. "With a field of 83 guys, you are never safe."

The Virtual Tournament is a season-long tournament starting back on February 1st. A record 82 participants were involved in 2005. All registered players will receive new points on January 1 for the 363 day tournament.