July 25, 2005

WARREN, PA — There are disappointing moments during the Carl Spackler Open Championship, but nothing worse than Rob Fustich ignoring a Red Zone Alert last August, which cost him a chance at glory. You could say the same thing about Shawn Long in 2004, Chris Goss in 2003, and Kevin Long, Jr. in 2002.  The Alert symbolizes 8 to 10 months before the 2006 Carl Spackler Open and keeping it in your pants.

"We need force feed this type of information to the field of players," says Brian Flanagan, who won the 2003 Kitchen Pass Award. "The championship is the best thing going and some guys just do not weigh their options."

Jim Campbell, Mike Lewis, and Steve Hoden are three players not concerned about the Red Zone Alert that starts in one week. Campbell placed 3rd in the 2005 Carl Spackler Open. Steve Hoden, the winner of the 2005 Golden Jacket, placed tied for 14th place at Mountain Valley. The second worst performance during the final round belonged to Mike Lewis as he fell 17 spots to finish in 52nd place.

The Red Zone Alert begins promptly Sunday for 75 days.  The Captains Club asks that everyone recognize the Alert and "be careful," says Steve Hoden.  "Get your sex now. We do not like hearing bad news in November."

Potential Rookie Jamie O'Donnell of Warren, PA could see his first Spackler in 2006 if he does not fall victim to the Red Zone Alert.

The Red Zone Alert billboard will be posted for 75 days online as constant reminder for potential violators.  After two individuals noted they were sorry about missing the Open Championship because they did not know the tournament date, the Captains Club decided to put the notification in place.  "It eliminates the excuses," says Mike Lewis.  "The Alert gives people the opportunity to do the right thing."

The 2006 Carl Spackler Open begins in 317 days.  An expected field of rookies continues to grow with a venue announcement scheduled for October 15.