July 31, 2006

COLUMBUS, OH — The 2003 Tournament Honoree, Pat McElroy, has confirmed he is probable for the 2007 Carl Spackler Open Championship regardless of location.

McElroy last attended the Open Championship at Tanglewood Park in Winston-Salem, NC.

"A couple of years off is enough," said McElroy during his last round of golf in early-July. "Although my wife's birthday is during the tournament, I am very probable or 85% for this coming year."

Other members have their doubts. "McElroy was probable last year," said Chairman Greg Long. "What does 85% really mean?"

McElroy and Mike Watkeys are tied for the largest layoff by multi-year attendee in history of the tournament. Watkeys did sign in 2004 and 2005, but decided against attendance months afterward.

"I will believe it when the money rolls into the Spackler kitty," said CEO Jeremy Myers. "McElroy should know better. He would eliminate a lot of controversy if his check was already in the mail."

The June tournament will again require a non-refundable $120 deposit due before the end of this year. Many golfers wait until Christmas season to submit their commitment.

McElroy last played in Cincinnati where he fired 26-over par during a 5-hole stretch to finish the front nine at The Golf Club at Stonelick Hills. The round of 119 was indeed his worst round of his 5-year Spackler career.