January 10, 2007

SMITHFIELD, VA — Jeff Tatum is expecting on June 12. Not a Golden Jacket, but a new baby. His decision to ignore the Red Zone Alert will ensure he will not be participating this summer in the 2007 Carl Spackler Open Championship.

"My timing for my wife getting pregnant was calculated incorrectly," said Tatum in a written statement. "The baby is due on June 12 and I think this one is mine. I don't think it would be good timing for me to go this year. I will be back in the future."

Tatum is the second victim of the Carl Spackler Red Zone Alert. He follows Captains Club member Jay Dilks. He is also the third player from Virginia to violate in tournament history. Kevin Long, Jr. is on permanent record with absence in April 2002. Chris Goss violated prohibiting attendance in June 2003.

Tatum added, "I would love to play and it's not about the kitchen passes or money," he said. "The Open is a very special tournament. But right now, the time I'm spending with my family is the most important thing to me, and I wouldn't trade it for anything. Consider me a victim of the Red Zone."

The 2007 Carl Spackler Open Championship moves into January with a strong field of players. Golfer options begin on March 8 and continue for 31 days.