March 8, 2010

LAGUNA VISTA, TX — The 2010 Skills Challenge Contest has been a staple of the Carl Spackler Open for 6 straight years. The contest will return in 2010, but with a different flavor. The short game contest will broaden to a group approach shot on Saturday after Round 3 inside the South Padre Island executive course.

This years group contest is a 48-golfer contest were each participant will be given two swings at a flagstick. Each swing will be executed on the 'count-of-three' and with two guys executing their swing at the same time.

"That changes everything," says senior member Mark Wray. "I have trouble getting comfortable in a peaceful situation."

Although surprising, the contest is expected to see between 10 and 15 balls hit the green.

The worst skilled golfers will hit first to prevent a Jason Ridgeway tap-in from stealing away the excitement. The closest ball to the pin will take home the 2010 Skills Challenge Trophy.

The 2-time winner of the Skills Challenge Contest, Greg Garrett, also returns as the reigning Skills Challenge Champion. "The game is easier than most people realize," says Garrett. "Learning to relax is critical to become an professional short game player."

Greg became a legend in 2006 when he claimed, "There is no break on the green if you putt the ball hard enough."

Garrett returns with trophy in arm. Past winners include Mike Pugh (2008), Jason Ridgeway (2007), Jeff Miller (2006), Pat Boland (2005), and Greg Garrett (2004).

The group contest is expected to take 45 to 60 minutes.

The 2010 Carl Spackler Open Championship will be played in Laguna Vista, TX. The South Padre Island Golf Community will host the tournament field for 5 days and 5 nights. Participants will enjoy golf course condominiums, swimming pool, and Laguna Madre Bay.