March 23, 2007

JACKSON, MI — One of the least noticed, most important roles within planning the Carl Spackler Open Championship returns in 2007. All golf bags can be stored at the clubhouse in a locked area starting Wednesday evening after the practice round through Saturday's play.

"This is the most underrated planning we do for the tournament," says Matt Davis, Vice President of Contests and Bag Storage. "This eliminates probably 90 minutes of bag handling throughout the week and eliminates 25% of the vehicles required to transport golfers."

The efficiencies of bag storage was first realized in 2002 at the Colonial Golf Club in Williamsburg, VA. It did not return for two years due to golf club policies. It returned in Barnesville, PA with very powerful results.

"It is one of those things that can stop tournament venue negotiations," says Davis. "Minor bag handling by 60+ golfers causes more inefficiencies than most realize."

The bag storage along with daily pairing sheets will coordinate the starters, golfers, rangers and bag staff to ensure 32 golf carts can be loaded with a "valet-type" experience.

Bag storage will not be an option on Friday for golfers participating in the 4-man Scramble.

The 2007 Carl Spackler Open Championship begins its practice round on June 6 with two waves. As of today, there are 64 players signed to play in the 7th major championship.