February 8, 2005

DULUTH, GA — Second-year member, Pat "Hurricane" Boland, has officially signed as the 63rd player to the 2005 Carl Spackler Open. It has long been rumored that Pat would attend, but Hurricane's sponsors, Mountain Dew, would not allow an official press release until his check cleared the bank in mid-January. "Pat's physical skills alone could place him atop the Leaderboard for a day or two," says Brian Flanagan.  "However, it will remain to be seen whether or not he can stand up to the mental stress of playing his 2nd major championship and against a record field size."

Even Rick Dosky has some doubts, "I've played dozens of rounds with Pat, and I'm not sure he has ever faced the amount of pressure on the golf course that he will on the #1 tee box and the #18 green. Without question, they are the two most difficult shots for everyone throughout the year."

Although the anticipation for the arrival of the "Hurricane" may pale in comparison to that of Don McFarland three years ago, it is still a topic of conversation. Even Flanagan himself shared some anxiety, "Anyone who loves golf, gambling and golf gambling enough to risk a marriage for it, then he's Spackler material. If his golf game is at all decent, he could be the favorite for Kitchen Pass honors."

Some existing members are worried about the increased level of competition. "I've played with him at Golfapalooza and he has what it takes", said Greg Long. "I saw him hole out from 75 yards to a blinded green in September.  That is enough for me to not rule him out for the coveted jacket."

The Hurricane's presence at the Carl Spackler Open is greatly anticipated. Based on his stellar performance off the tee and around the greens, Pat will be giving both Ridgeway, Hunter, and Slick a run for the raw title.

The 2005 Carl Spackler Open begins in 120 days in Barnesville, PA.  Player preferences including Red Tee Lottery began on January 21.