March 10, 2004

GAHANNA, OH — Every young golfer would like to see Tiger Woods play. The Carl Spackler Open will be seeing another Woods instead.  His name is Jason Ridgeway and his handicap is scratch.

Ridgeway, who signed yesterday as a 2004 rookie to play at Carl Spackler Open Championship and is favored to knock off Slick from his perch at #1.

"It's a big opportunity," Jason said Tuesday afternoon after inking his name on the dotted line. "The chances of winning are small, but my devotion for the Golden Jacket are big.  I am definitely looking forward to it."

The Captains Club made the move to allow Jason Ridgeway into the field when other players expressed interest.  "Ridgeway will be successful because he's got good work habits," Tom McCauley said. "He plans to prepare himself well for the tournament and his future in our annual Open. I'm sure he'll do well.  I'm very proud to have someone around to kick Slick's ass. I'm obviously excited."

The Carl Spackler Open begins in 91 days.  There are 46 players signed for the event.