January 23, 2008

PERU, IN — Ohio's golf phnom Brian Long announced last week his signing and intent to participate in his fifth straight Carl Spackler Open Championship. Long will begin preparing immediately for Rock Hollow and the required touch around the greens.

Long comes to the Carl Spackler Open from Ohio, where he has resided for just 2 1/2 years. He boasts an impressive resume, which includes a scramble victory at Tanglewood Park back in 2004 and wonderful management of our online scoring.

Tanglewood Park was also the site of Brian's career-low round where he shot a 19-over 89 during the final round of play. The surprise round was explained through his ability to play "under fire".

"It is great to have something to look forward to," said Long as he stuffed pizza in his mouth. "Summer and fall are nice, but there are no real goals out there. I always look forward to the November and December signing period as it allows me to get refocused on my golf game plan and hopefully first Golden Jacket."

Long disappointed his fans after finishing in a tie for 46th position in Michigan. The Grande periodically ate his lunch and pushed him around just like the bullies at Warren Area High School.

"On paper, Brian is a top recruit in the history of our program," says Captains Club member Matt Davis. "That speaks a lot about the direction our program and importance of great people and quality contributions. We do feel fortunate to be getting someone of his caliber. His computer talents alone place Spackler on the fast track to where we want to be. He also provides us with more rule and pace of play depth that is becoming essential."

Buddy Kyle Marti also signed in late-December to participate in his 5th tournament. He holds 24th position for best player in history. Marti also holds 5th position for best long putter in history.

"Kyle was a great fit into our field of players," said Brian Long in a written statement from the Captains Club. "We were not impressed with his hacking year after year, however we see a great desire to play golf at the highest level. He has become a student of the game and nearly won the 2007 Virtual Tournament."

Kyle enters his second tournament with zero course knowledge. "Rock Hollow looks like an impressive course," said Marti of his 5th venue. "The annual practice round will require lots of notes and patience. This year might be all about playing conservatively and watching everyone else falls apart."

Brian Long signs as the 23rd player. Kyle signs as the 24th player and will represent Pennsylvania. The 2008 Carl Spackler Open is a 54-hole handicapped tournament. There are 133 days before Round 1.