May 30, 2003

COLUMBUS, OH — Pat McElroy, the 2003 Tournament Honoree and 30 other players are getting ready for this week's major championship.  Pat will lead the field onto the course with the honorary tee off on Thursday. "I am very grateful for the Captains Club decision to make me the 2003 Honoree", said McElroy. "I have been working on my game, my handshake and my speech."

The Carl Spackler Open is scheduled to be played in 12 days in Madison, Ohio and scores should be much higher than in the past two years.  "There is no doubt the weather will be unique again this year", said Matt Davis.  We had 90's in April 2002 and almost snow in March 2001."

The 2003 Honoree and Rookie, Pat McElroy is ready to do battle except this time it is for the Golden Jacket.  Pat was selected as the tournament honoree back in mid-February for his committment to the Open Championship and is prepared to compete and have fun.

Tournament Chief Executive Jamie Myers added, "As an accomplished player, Pat has been an important part of our game and a competitive factor, however is not a consistent supporter of the kitchen pass theory. On a personal note, he has been a friend to so many of us.  I appreciate and support the Captains resolution of this issue by naming Pat the honoree for 2003."

The honoree will be giving a opening speech to the field on Thursday morning and receiving the honoree first tee off for Round 1.  Pat is also responsible for the award presentations, Friday night dinner location and coordinator of the Closest to the Pin contest.

The Carl Spackler Open is scheduled to begin in just 12 days. The field is already trying to find every opportunity to play this spring as a purse and Spackler Outfit are at stake. The 54-hole tournament is scheduled to begin on June 12, 2003 at noon. The tournament and players will be tracked online for fan enjoyment.