April 8, 2010

PITTSBURGH, PA — Rob Fustich, a.k.a. Thompson, has signed to play golf at the 2010 Carl Spackler Open Championship. He signs to play at his 5th tournament, signs as the 49th participant, and will represent the state of Pennsylvania.

"I need to get some Jim Beam at Coastal Spirits," said Fustich during his lunch break. "It is my point booster."

Robby Fustich is the poster child for skipping the major championship for family. He skipped the 2003 and 2005 tournaments after violating the Red Zone Alert. He skipped the 2009 event when Walt Disney World trumped the Carl Spackler Open. Thompson is one of three participants attending his year with 4 kids.

He started his career at Tanglewood Park as a rookie where he nearly lost the tournament. "My game had outfit written all over it," said Fustich. "Only severe hacking by Mike Watkeys saved me."

Thompson was asked how much he liked the tournament. He replied, "Depending on how much I like Laguna Vista, I may never go back home."

Robby is best known for his trip to Raleigh where he finished in 21st position. He downed approximately 1/3 liter of Jim Beam during the 4-man Scramble. He ended up in a very deep sleep on the party bus and skipping the entertainment Friday night.

Rob returns after an impressive 23rd place finish in Peru, IN. He enters the 2010 Carl Spackler Open with a +14.5 stroke handicap. He is expected to receive 1 point for double-bogey and 4 points for par.

The 2010 Carl Spackler Open begins in 6 days. Golfers including senior members Mark Wray, Jeff Tatum, and Bob Morris are expected to start arriving on April 14 for the annual practice round.