(Ponte Vedra Beach, FL) — The PGA TOUR today announced that the TOUR’s Policy Board has approved a field size of 120 players for the AT&T National tournament in Washington D.C.
"We have for the long-term been committed to maximizing playing opportunities for our members," said PGA TOUR Commissioner Tim Finchem. "We will continue to make that a priority.
"In light of that commitment, the feedback we have received from our Player Advisory Council and the membership on the issue of field size for the AT&T National is both understandable and very much appreciated. After weighing all the considerations, the Policy Board determined that an invitational criteria for this event was overwhelmingly positive for the PGA TOUR and its members in the long-term."
The Policy Board also discussed ongoing efforts over the past year with respect to improving upon the number and quality of playing opportunities for its members.
Changes in several areas of eligibility under review, which could result in a number of additional playing opportunities include:
Field sizes at invitational tournaments
Open qualifying spots
Unrestricted sponsor exemptions
Foreign exemptions
Further efforts to increase playing opportunities include the addition of a 132-field event scheduled opposite the World Golf Championships – CA Championship in 2008 and beyond.
The inaugural AT&T National will be held July 2-8.
Contact:
James Cramer
PGA TOUR
904-631-2999
Joel Schuchmann, Media Official
PGA TOUR
112 PGA TOUR Boulevard
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082
(904) 616-2441 mobile
(904) 280-4707 office
joelschuchmann@pgatourhq.com
