June 13, 2004

WINSTON-SALEM, NC — What started out a butt-kicking by rookie Jason Ridgeway, quickly turned into a two man footrace at the 2004 Carl Spackler Open.  During the back nine of final round play, Steve Hoden birdied 3 times, scored 59 points, and in dramatic fashion, brought home the Golden Jacket to his fans in Warren, PA.

"This is the greatest event", says Hoden.  "To come in as a rookie and go home as a Major Champion is the ultimate compliment."  Hoden was asked about his birdie binge.  "I have never had 2 birdies in 1 round.  This NOOG system rewards aggressive play and definitely my birdies.  It was absolutely incredible to watch."

Steve Mascaro turned on the jets on Saturday after wearing the Al Czervic Outfit.  He scored 33 points to dig himself out of the dreaded Carl Spackler Outfit.  Although Mike Watkeys played his best round of the week, he failed to dig himself out scoring only 22 points on Saturday.

"I did not expect shoot 20 over my normal handicap on Thursday," says Mike Watkeys.  "My 136 (66-over par) was just awful.  If I could have predicted that disaster, I would have played a round of golf this spring."

Mike Watkeys finished with 53 points and lost the tournament by 7 points.