February 15, 2008

AMBRIDGE, PA — Rob Fustich, a.k.a. Thompson, has signed to play golf at the 2008 Carl Spackler Open Championship. He signs to play at his 4th tournament and first ever back-to-back-to-back attendance. Rob signs as the 37th participant and will represent the state of Pennsylvania.

"It is great to have kids in the off-season," said Fustich during his lunch break. "I have my Jim Beam already packed."

Robby Fustich is the poster child for having children in May and June.

He attended Tanglewood Park as a rookie and nearly lost the tournament. "My game had outfit written all over it," said Fustich. "Only severe hacking by Mike Watkeys saved me."

Thompson skipped the 2003 Thunder Hill tournament due to child birth. He also skipped the 2005 Mountain Valley tournament for another miracle.

"My wife found out she was pregnant for the 4th time this year," said Fustich. "She said, 'Oh, the baby will be born in December so it won't interfere with your golf trip.'"

Fustich smiled and added, "So then December rolls around and I'm getting ready to send in my check and she says, 'I don't know if you should go, it will be difficult taking care of the kids on my own.'  I reminded her of comments 8 months earlier and sent in the check the next day. I cannot wait for the golf tournament."

Fustich was asked how much he liked the tournament. He replied, "Depending on how much I like Peru, I may never go back home."

Robby is best known for his trip to Raleigh where he finished in 21st position. He downed approximately 1/3 liter of Jim Beam during the 4-man Scramble. He ended up taking a 30-minute nap on the party bus and skipping the entertainment Friday night.

Thompson opens this season with a 16.8 stroke handicap. The 2008 Carl Spackler Open begins in 110 days. Golfers including Mark Wray are expected to start arriving on June 4 for the annual practice round.