May 16, 2019

KALAMAZOO, MI — One of the least noticed, most important roles within planning the Carl Spackler Open returns for a 17th year in 2019. All golf bags can be stored at Angels Crossing Golf Club between each players first and final round.

"This is the most underrated planning we do for the tournament," says Jeremy Myers, Vice President of Bag Storage. "This eliminates hundreds of hours of bag handling throughout the week and eliminates the vehicles required to transport bags."

Participants will be provided a personalized Carl Spackler Open bagtag on Wednesday, July 10. This is the 14th straight year bagtags will be provided.

The efficiencies of bag storage was first realized in 2002 at the Colonial Golf Club in Williamsburg, VA. It did not return for two years due to golf club policies. It returned in Barnesville, PA with very powerful results. It has been included every year except Myrtle Beach, SC.

"It is one of those things that will stop negotiations," says Myers. "Minor bag handling by 90 golfers over 4 days causes more inefficiencies than most realize."

The bag storage along with daily tee sheets will coordinate the starters, golfers, rangers and bag staff to ensure 45 golf carts can be loaded with a "valet-type" experience.

"Bag storage is one of the reasons the event is played from the same clubhouse over a 4-day period," says Myers. "Cost per round, tournament feel, and facility familiarity are three other reasons."

The tournament participants will be instructed where to park golf carts. Participants will grab personal belongings such as wallets, jewelry, etc. and return the next day to recart.

The 2019 Carl Spackler Open begins its practice round on Wednesday, July 10. As of today, there are 92 players signed to participate in the 19th annual birthday party. The Captains Club are expected to crown another champion in just 54 days.