February 23, 2004

COLUMBUS, OH — Greg Long, chairman of the Carl Spackler Open, who announced his retirement from golf last September still plans to keep his promise with four minor exceptions.  The most active online member of 2003 with 57 rounds plans to step away from the game that has brought the Open Championship to 44 players and a tournament for the ages.

"There are people that really do not believe me", said Long.  "That's tough, but with minor exceptions, I am done playing golf for about 15 years."  Long did offer his exceptions.  "I have not picked up a club since Golfapalooza in September and do plan to pickup a club in June 2004 for the Open.  That is assuming that I am not invited to a celebrity tournament or charity function where golf would be a requirement.  I also plan to work with players challenged by the golf swing."  Long does plan to continue his attendance at the Carl Spackler Open and Golfapalooza each year, but is completely looking for something else for about 15 years.

Brian Flanagan, disheartened by the news, only was asking one question.  "What is wrong with him?  I need golf and so does he."  

Although, Long discounts the retirement as a financial issue, he does stand to save an estimated $2,280 in greens fees in 2004, $1,100 in golf lessons, $300 in range fees, and $840 in travel costs.  These type of staggering numbers do not even include the consumables like balls, tees, towels, hotdogs, and cigars.  It also does not include the estimated 16 hours per week dedicated to the sport.  "This is not a financial decision.  It is a decision based on my last round of golf in Terra Alta and overall timing.  I assure everyone that I am walking away happy and at the top of my game."