April 8, 2005

SOUTHERN SHORES, NC — Everyone is excited.  Mountain Valley is open for business and the field has moved their clubs from the garage to vehicle.  But could Chris Lashley be on his way out with 60 days left?  Could others be behind him?  Only the field players know the answer with 22 days prior to D day.  The day set forth in October for all payments to be received.

"We believe strongly that we will have a field of 68," said Tom McCauley at the weekly Captains Club press conference.  "We are a little nervous because we only have about half the funds, but Dosky better get the money soon."

Chris Lashley was a rookie in 2002 when he traveled the short distance to Williamsburg, VA.  He missed 2003 due to office politics, but returned in 2004 as a member of the field.  He vowed to return in 2005 after he placed 7th.  Scott Miller was another player who signed up for the 2002 major championship and bailed.  He returned in 2003 and vowed to return in 2004 where again bailed.  Finally, Shawn Long attended his first Open Championship in 2003, bailed in 2004 due to pregnancy, but is set to return in 2005.

Lashley is the winner of the 2002 On Tour Championship.  His last round was played on July 5, 2004 when he played Bevenue and shot 105.  Miller nearly won the Stroke Award in 2003 and Shawn placed in the Top 10 in 2003.

The 2005 Carl Spackler Open is scheduled for June 9.  A field of 68 players is expected to attend the 5th championship.  A record 23 players are scheduled to represent Ohio.