January 19, 2009

NAPLES, FL — Tom McCauley, on behalf of the 14-member Captains Club, held the last press conference before the national signing period expires. He provided some additional information while hitting balls at the range in Florida along with making himself available for a few questions regarding the tournament in Virginia.

"Last Call! Everyone has a few remaining days to get their checks postmarked," said McCauley. "January 28. 120 bucks. Non-refundable. Non-transferable. Any questions?"

Jim Munksgard, a 1-time member representing Pennsylvania, stepped forward with a couple of questions. "What do you think the biggest change will be this year in Virginia?" McCauley thought for a moment and replied, "I will not be touching any turtles this year."

Tom McCauley, a.k.a. Turtle Boy, won the 2008 Horses Ass Award at Rock Hollow Golf Club. He picked up a snapping turtle on Wednesday afternoon that bit part of his lip off.

Munksgard replied, "Good move. What else?"

McCauley said, "We are sleeping, drinking and playing golf again. The core is the same, but the location makes things different. The biggest change will be the golf course. The layout is absolutely beautiful and should be considered our best tournament course ever.

I would also note the distance between hotel and course will change from Peru. Everyone should expect a Raleigh-like transportation times."

Munksgard said, "The bus should help out quite a bit. Anything else changing this year?"

Turtle Boy replied, "Most of us are headed over the Blue Ridge Mountains. The venue terrain will be hilly unlike Indiana or Michigan."

Jim Munksgard said, "One more question. What do you see as the biggest risk or disappointment going into 2009?" Long replied, "The biggest risk is always weather, but we will add the economy. We were due for heavy rain last year and got it on Friday. We need to pray for great weather in Amherst. The economy could affect attendance this year by at least 10 absences. The loss in attendance is the potential bad news, but the price breaks on aggressive vendors is expected to be positive."

Tom McCauley glanced at his cell phone and said, "I will take one more question. I have a tee time."

Chris Philipsen shouted, "Any surprises this year?" McCauley replied, "Probably the baseball game, $1 beers, live music, and the value it provides on Thursday night. I would think every participant will be in awe over the golf course regardless of their expectation coming in. The entertainment at Cattle Annies is underrated in the fun factor column."

The 2009 Carl Spackler Open Championship begins in 141 days at Poplar Grove Golf Club. Tournament registration expires in 9 days. There are 81 participants with verbal, written, or financial commitments to participate.