April 13, 2001

COLUMBUS, OH — Randy Watson, chasing his first tournament victory, used accurate irons to shoot a 22-over 94 over the weekend for an eleven point lead over Don McFarland at the 2001 Carl Spackler Spring Open Championship. Watson said this week conditions in Columbus were perfect for scoring -- then proved himself correct by landing iron after iron near the greens at Foxfire Golf Club.

The highlight was a 160-yard 7-iron on the par-5 thirteenth hole that settled a foot away from the green for birdie. After a par at No. 13, Watson hit an 8-iron approach on the next hole that left him a tap-in par and the lead by 11 points.

"I think the big thing right now is my confidence in all parts of the game,'' said Watson, whose last victory was as a high school wrestler in February 1990. "I've got the enthusiasm to want to do well and I think I'm playing well.  I am real happy with the spot I?m in, but realize the tournament is just getting started.''