August 17, 2003

TERRA ALTA, WV — Greg Garrett heads a strong field of already 22 players for this September's Golfapalooza which plays at Alpine Lake in Terra Alta, West Virginia. The tournament, which is the 8th and final major of the year, is the event to be held in West Virginia and carries a record prize fund.

Greg Garrett, who will arrive again this year as a member at Alpine Lake after placing 22nd at the 2003 Carl Spackler Open during a remarkable season. "I remember it was awful wet weather, but I just hope it is better this September," said the 34-year-old.

But it is Flanagan, a Golfapalooza 2001 winner, who will inevitably start the week as tournament favorite. "This is the biggest event of the year for me," said the 30-year-old Flanagan. "I would just love to win the title again and get into the Golfapalooza Hall of Fame. But it's probably almost asking too much."  Flanagan placed 4th at the Spacker Open.

Jason Watson also returns as the reigning MELC Champion.  Watson finished another strong 6th at the 2003 Open.  "These majors are easy.  Just hang in there and wait for each player to lose it."  Rick Dosky is expected to return after finishing 27th of 32 in June.

Other players in the field include 2001 Carl Spackler Open winner Greg Long who finished 23rd in June and Don McFarland who placed 24th.  Gus Sokos, who placed 30th also has signed.