April 26, 2004

POWELL, OH — Marty Zabonik had never thought about shooting under par.  "I've never been good enough around the greens," the 35-year-old slugger.  In some ways, he's never been in a better position than now.

"I'm like a kid in a candy store. I'm delighted to be playing golf again," Zabonik said with childlike enthusiasm after a closing 11-over-par 83 on April 16 and 17 at his home course Scioto Reserve and local course Deer Ridge. "I love to play golf when I can play reasonably well. I'm tickled pink."

Maybe because he's seeing red already -- on his scorecard.

With a iron-game that is much improved but still temperamental, Zabonik knows better than to look too far into the future. He is taking the 2003 season day by day. But after shooting three rounds in the 80's, he was encouraged enough to mention the "S" word. As in, Spackler.

Not the official Open in Winston-Salem, but the On Tour Championship.  Zabonik has skipped the 2004 tournament because his game and wasn't up to his rigorous standards.

"I haven't heard him talk about his swing that well in five years," Bill Bateson said after having lunch. "Mike shows he could be a threat out here (on the Tour)."

Mike opened this year with a 35.8 point average as he continues to impress the field of players.  Mike placed 2nd last year after battling Tim Nightwine for the Chammpionship in November.

One thing is for sure.  Mike will be playing great golf and giving his fans a reason to cheer.