January 23, 2011

VIRGINIA BEACH, VA — Kevin Long, Jr., on behalf of the Captains Club, held the last press conference before the 4-month national signing period for the Carl Spackler Open expires. He provided some additional information while hitting balls at the range in Virginia Beach along with making himself available for a few questions regarding the tournament in Pennsylvania.

"Last Call! Everyone has a few remaining days to get their checks postmarked," said the 10-year member of the event. "January 31. 120 bucks. Non-refundable. Non-transferable. Any questions?"

Jon Munksgard, a 9-time member representing Pennsylvania, stepped forward with a couple of questions. "What do you think the biggest change will be when comparing the event to 2005?" Long thought for a moment and replied, "Hotel. The cleanliness, amenities, deluxe breakfast, and bar are almost uncomparable because they are so vastly upgraded."

Munksgard replied, "Sounds great. Are there any other notable changes?"

Long said, "We are sleeping, drinking and playing golf again. The core is the same, but the bus service will be another large upgrade from our past visit. Another change is the golf course. Mountain Valley has added 9 new holes and renovated a hole. There are two deck parties instead of just one. There is one hidden change. Our stronger relationship with Mountain Valley will add lots of additional services and flexibility."

Senior member Mark Wray said, "I have a question. What do you see as the biggest risk or disappointment going into 2011?" Long replied, "The largest risk is always weather. I would suggest the largest disappointments are the known absences of Erik Shirreffs (moving), Joe Muscaro (anniversary) , Bill Bateson (wedding), and Mark Palmer (wedding)."

Kevin Long, Jr. glanced at his cell phone and said, "I will take one more question. I need to hit the rest of these balls."

Jeff Tatum shouted, "Any surprises this year?" Long replied, "Yes. Just one. That surprise needs to stay a surprise until we get together in PA."

The 2011 Carl Spackler Open Championship begins in 136 days at Mountain Valley Golf Course in Barnesville, PA. There are 75 to 85 participants expected to participate in the 96-hour golf party. Event registration expires promptly at 11:59PM on January 31, 2011. Paid late-entries will be collected and handled on April 18, 2011 when all cancellations are late-entries are known.