May 28, 2012

CONKLIN, NY — With just over a week left before Round 1, a press conference was called to discuss the golf tournament and status of preparations. The Chairman, Greg Long, led the press conference at the temporary Carl Spackler Open Media tent and stage just southeast of downtown Conklin, NY at River Park.

"Welcome. I spent the weekend at Knoebel's Amusement Park near Mountain Valley and ran up here to Conklin to host a quick press conference. We have a very different field of players coming here to Conklin this year with 40 returning golfers from Mountain Valley," said Long referring to returning golfers from June 2011. Matt Boland officially withdrew last Friday and expecting 63 golfers.

"There has not been many changes to the overall itinerary or format since first designed in September 2011," says Long. "The practice round is now set for 19 holes, mobile scoring has been added, tee times have been pushed back, and Skills Challenge Contest has been moved to Hole 10.

This year basic facilities are pretty straight forward with upgrades to golf course and hotel while decreasing overall attendance by 35 percent."

[Lacey Underall delivered a gatorade.]

"There are a few concerns with this year's event," added Long. "The top concern is weather. I do not expect to get rounds in this year due to  rain. I really think the tournament could be shortened. Mobile scoring being brand new is another large concern. Allan Hench reported Red Tee Lottery errors last week and the entire Lottery needs redone. A fourth concern is Zabonik not getting enough points this year. The computer is unsympathic for a guy who has been struggling.

Does anyone have any questions?"

Mark Palmer asked, "I have a question. I have not had a single day off in four months. Can I get some points for that?"

Greg Long replied, "Get in line behind Zabonik."

Brian Long asked, "I got a new job in New Jersey this spring, sold my house, sold half my belongings, moved, and started a new job. I have not seen my clubs since I moved. Can I get some more points?"

Greg Long replied, "Get in line behind Palmer."

Chad Long asked, "Our golf league never got off the ground this year. I have not played yet this year. Can I get some more points?"

Greg Long replied, "Get in line behind Brian."

Mike Gibson, Dan Obendorfer, and Don Creighton all yelled at the same time, "Ditto. I am in line behind Chad."

Greg Long jumped in. "Ok. We need to stop talking about guys who no longer have time to golf. Any other questions?"

Justin Gorby asked, "What is the biggest difference this year?"

Long replied, "There are a few. The hotel and golf course are significant upgrades this year as indicated. That is probably the biggest change. I fully expect the conditions to be the best the event will experience; past and future. The hotel is located downtown similar to 2006 in Raleigh. The breakfast and rooms are nice like South Padre Island and there is a brand new sports bar inside the hotel. I believe the bar opens on June 5 for the first time.

The time off golf course property will drop by approximately 10 hours this year. Chad Long took over the replay round last summer. He is running the replay round with a different format. I think there are teams, but I am not even sure what is going on, which has been nice.

I have a lot to do this week in preparation for bad weather. I will see everyone in about a week.

The 2012 Carl Spackler Open will host its player meeting on Wednesday evening after the practice round. Bag storage will be executed between the practice round and player meeting. A registration table will be available for all golfers prior to the practice round.