May 7, 2008

DUBLIN, OH — The Carl Spackler Open Championship added another rookie to its 8th class of recruits. Tony Oakley committed to attend the prestigious event as one of most skilled rookies and was to represent the popular state of Ohio. He officially withdrew yesterday with Mike Pugh grabbing his spot.

The news that Pugh will play sets up a potential individual matchups against Golden Jacket holders Brian Flanagan of Powell, Tom Fowble of Marysville, Rick Dosky of Columbus, and Greg Long of Columbus.

"A golfer with a steady 17 holes in him," says Captains Club member Rick Dosky. "A big problem in a modified stableford event."

The 170-pound Pugh boasts a 5.5 stroke handicap. He averages 8.9 pars and 8.6 bogeys per round, which covers 17.5 holes per round. The lack of birdies over 10 rounds almost certaintly guarantees Mike 'middle of the pack' on Saturday.

"I hope my competition are bringing their A-games, because mine is already packed and ready," said Pugh while leaning back and resting his feet on his desk. "It is hard to believe that I will be playing in a major championship. Can someone pinch me?"

Pugh was asked about his chances to win the Golden Jacket. He replied, "I have to laugh, because I've outsmarted even myself. My enemy, my foe, is an animal. In order to conquer the animal, I have to learn to think like an animal. And, whenever possible, to look like one. I've gotta get inside this guy's pelt and crawl around for a few days."

Pugh signs as the 70th participant. He boasts the 4th best handicap in the tournament with +5.5 strokes.

The 2008 Carl Spackler Open Championship will be played at Rock Hollow Golf Club in Peru, IN. The 54-hole tournament will include a practice round on Wednesday and a 4-man Scramble on Friday afternoon.