February 4, 2008

COLUMBUS, OH — The Carl Spackler Open has signed another athlete to compete its 2008 major championship. Chris Philipsen has signed his letter of intent and ready to give it a go. The 4-time member joins a strong field of players from Ohio.

"Chris has tremendous success at the national level," noted Vice President of Online Scoring, Greg Garrett. "Chris has showcased his accuracy, short game prowess, and course management skills last season in the Virtual Tournament. I expect to be entering lower than average scores for him."

"The jacket is mine," were the simple words used to describe Chris Philipsen dreams and decision to sign his national letter of intent. He signs as the 30th golfer and the 10th golfer to represent the state of Ohio.

Garrett asked, "Didn't you predict winning the jacket last year?" Philipsen replied, "Yes, but this time is the real deal."

"I am a father now. I have matured. I have a baby girl who will be nine months old by the time Spackler rolls around. The outlook on my golf game this spring will be grim, which will boost my handicap. I'll rely on experience and dedicate my jacket to her."

Chris Philipsen is the 10th best golfer in Spackler History. "I have finished strong for the past three years," said Philipsen. "This includes a top 15 finish in Michigan, which gives me tremendous confidence. I am also hoping that my rookie referral, Rich Armstrong, doesn't don the Carl Spackler Outfit as rookies have in 2 of the last 3 events."

Philipsen finished in 35th position in Mountain Valley's 68-player tournament. He grabbed 20th position at the Neuse with 63 other players.

"Chris should be content with not wearing any outfits," said buddy Greg Garrett. "Instead, his head is messed up. To win a jacket with handicaps considered will take a lot of risk. He really needs to take his game to another level; a level that I have not seen."

Philipsen did place 12th in the 2006 Virtual Tournament and is expected to participate as one of the event's Top 20 most skilled golfers.

The 2008 Carl Spackler Open Championship begins with it's optional practice round on June 4. Options and preferences will begin on March 8 and last 31 days.